S.J News• [August 1, 2013]

S.J News• [August 1, 2013]• http://sjnewss.blogspot.com/ Currency: Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) spends ₦114bn annually on printing, moving, sorting & destruction of bad currency notes -Tunde Lemo (Deputy Governor, Operations). ASUU: Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU) calls for sack of Nyesom Wike (Minister of State for Education) over alleged involvement in Rivers state political crisis. Brandished Mace: Police arraigns embattled Majority Leader of Rivers State House of Assembly, Chidi Lloyd, for attempted murder of Michael Chindah. SSG: Gov Godswill Akpabio (Akwa Ibom) appoints Udom Gabriel Emmanuel (Akwa Ibom) as new Secretary to the State Government; To replace Umana Okon Umana. Divestment (Oil Mining Licenses): Shell to sell 4 more oil blocks in Nigeria; OML 13 & 16 (Onshore) and OML 71 & 72 (Shallow waters). ACN, ANPP, CPC: All Progressives Congress (APC) gets Independent National Electoral Commission's (INEC) approval for registration as political party. Power: Televeras Group (energy firm) emerges preferred bidder for Afam Power Plc with an offer of $260,050,000; Rival, TES Power Ltd, offered $222,900,000.

S.J News• [July 31, 2013]

S.J News• [July 31, 2013]• http://sjnewss.blogspot.com/ X-Gen: Nigerian Stock Exchange (NSE) to introduce new electronic trading platform for 24-hours access to market by investors, stockbrokers, stakeholders -Oscar Onyema (CEO, NSE). Anambra: Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) rejects Ken Emeakayi as PDP Chairman of Anambra state; Still recognises Ejike Ogbuebego as Chairman of party in Anambra state. Ministry: Workers @ Ministry of Industry, Trade & Investment staged protest demanding immediate removal of Olusegun Aganga (Minister) & Dauda Kigbu (Permanent Secretary). ASUU Strike: Imminent return of university teachers back to classrooms is a rumour; Stike to persist untl FG fulfils part in FG/Academic Staff Union of Universities agreement. UNILORIN: University of Ilorin expels 5 students for alleged acts of misconduct -Prof AbdulGaniyu Ambali (Vice Chancellor, University of Ilorin). Flipping Birds: Nigerian (36yrs) & Cape Verdean (36yrs) nabbed by officials of NDLEA @ Murtala Muhammed International Airport, Lagos for illegal importation of 2kg cocaine. Consultation: Gov Rabiu Kwankwaso (Kano), Gov Murtala Nyako (Adamawa), Gov Sule Lamido (Jigawa) & Gov Aliyu Wamakko (Sokoto) meet with Shehu Shagari (2nd Republic President) in Sokoto state. BRT e-ticketing: Lagos State Government launches electronic ticketing system for Bus Rapid Transit (BRT). Falomo: Heirs Holdings signs agreement with Lagos State Development Property Corporation (LSDPC) for transformation of Falomo Shopping Mall, Ikoyi to Shopping mall, Office complex & World class residential apartments.

S.J News• [July 30, 2013]

S.J News• [July 30, 2013]• http://sjnewss.blogspot.com/ Doma-Abuja: Federal Government to construct bye-pass from Doma, Nasarawa state to Abuja for ease of traffic congestion along Abuja-Lafia road -VP Namadi Sambo. Airport Remodelling Programme: House of Representatives begins probe into ₦22.2bn Aviation Contracts awarded by Federal Ministry of Aviation. Oil Theft: Nigeria lost over 136 million barrels of crude oil, estimated @ $10.9bn, due to crude oil theft & pipeline vandalism between 2009 & 2011-Nigeria Extractive Industries Transparency Initiative (NEITI). Political Parties: Federal High Court, Abuja nullifies deregistration of political parties by Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC). Kogi Poly: Kogi State Polytechnic, Lokoja reopened; Shut down 3 months ago over students’ unrest which led to death of a Senior Lecturer in School of Management Studies. PDP: Peoples Democratic Party appoints erstwhile Minister of Transport in 2nd Republic, Umaro Dikko, as Chairman of Disciplinary Committee. WASSCE: Extra fee to be charged for custody of WAEC results beyond December 31; Certificates for external candidates for up to Nov/Dec 2012 WASSCE awaiting collection -WAEC

S.J News• [July 29, 2013]

S.J News• [July 29, 2013]• http://sjnewss.blogspot.com/ NEITI: Nigeria Extractive Industries Transparency Initiative to present comprehensive audit reports 2day; Oil & Gas sector (2009 to 2011) & Solid Minerals sector (2007 to 2010). Puff & Die: Largest cannabis plantations in Nigeria found in South-West geopolitical zone; 1,404.27 hectares of cannabis farmland destroyed in 2012; Ekiti state tops list -NDLEA. ₦79m Fraud: Independent Corrupt Practices & other related offences Commission (ICPC) arraigns erstwhile Ebonyi state Commissioner for Health, Henry Aloh, for alleged contract scam. Miss Bolt: Blessing Okagbare (Nigeria) sets new African Sprint record of 10.79 seconds @ Saturday's IAAF Diamond League in London. Building Collapse: Adeniji Adele Estate, Lagos Island declared danger zone; To be demolished & rebuilt durably for occupants & lawful flat owners -Gov Babatunde Fashola (Lagos). Brandished Mace: Chidi Lloyd (Leader of Rivers State House of Assembly) going blind due to alleged torture & continued incarceration by Police -Pro-Amechi lawmakers. LG: Local Government employees to commence 3-day warning strike today to protest refusal of Senate to grant autonomy for Local Government.

S.J News• [July 28, 2013]

S.J News• [July 28, 2013]• http://sjnewss.blogspot.com/ Bonny Terminal: Nigeria Liquefied Natural Gas (NLNG) Ltd lifts force majeure on buyers & gas suppliers due to resolution of crisis with NIMASA; Access to its terminal blocked by NIMASA on 21st June, 2013. Gunrunning: ex-Niger Delta militant, 4 others arrested for allegedly supplying arms to Boko Haram insurgents -Kola Shodipo (Commissioner of Police, Cross River). Agriculture: 22,000 persons to beneft from Bank of Agriculture's (BOA) ₦4bn loan for expansion & boosting of agriculture sector in Anambra state -Dr Mohammed Santuraki (MD/CEO, BOA). NIMP: FG rolls out 30-year National Integrated Infrastructural Master Plan for sustenance of economic growth & attraction of foreign investment in Nigeria -Dr Shamsudeen Usman (Minister of National Planning). State/CCECC Contract: Gov Godswill Akpabio (Akwa Ibom) flags off construction of Eket-Ibeno road; 20km dual carriageway awarded @ ₦24.9bn with 24 months completion. FG/ASUU: Anyim Pius Anyim (SGF) to meet ASUU on Monday to address earned allowance & general university funding for infrastructure development -Gov Gabriel Suswam (Benue).

S.J News• [July 27, 2013]

S.J News• [July 27, 2013]• http://sjnewss.blogspot.com/ Strike: Academic Staff Union of Universities' (ASUU) ongoing strike likely to be called off next week due to negotiations with FG -Gov Gabriel Suswam (Benue). Science, Technology & Innovation: African Development Bank (AfDB) approves $45m grant for establishment of Pan African University (PAU) -Agnes Soucat (Director of Human Development, ADB). Firstmonie Talkmore (Mobile Payment): Airtel Nigeria partners with First Bank Nigeria for mobile payment services to a broader spectrum of Nigerians. Oyun LG: Gov Abdulfatah Ahmed (Kwara) orders immediate reinstatement of suspended Local Government Council following restoration of peace to area -Isiaka Gold (Secretary to the State Government). GSM: Over 15% of the total 119 million active subscribers in Nigeria are based in Lagos -Dr Eugene Juwah (Executive Vice Chairman, Nigerian Communications Commission). Bribery Inquiry: GlaxoSmithKline (GSK) appoints Herve Gisserot as General Manager in China; Replaces Mark Reilly.

S.J News• [July 26, 2013]

S.J News• [July 26, 2013]• http://sjnewss.blogspot.com/ GDP: Nigeria's Gross Domestic Product ranking moves from number 44th in 2010 to 36th in 2012 -President Jonathan. Ogun Clearing Time: Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) reduces clearing time for goods through Idi-Iroko border post, Ogun state to 1 hour. Treasury Bills: Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) sells ₦114.89bn ($717.61m) worth of treasury bills with maturities ranging from 3 months to 12 months. Non-oil Export: About ₦305.1bn earned within 1st 3 months of 2013; ₦158.38bn natural rubber ₦62.2bn raw cocoa beans, ₦20,76 Sesame seeds, ₦16.44bn cotton yarn, ₦8.56bn Leather products -NBS. Fraud: 53-year-old primary school teacher arraigned @ Ikeja Magistrate's Court for impersonating wives of Lagos & Osun state governors. Mass Housing: House of Representatives to probe Federal Capital Territory Administration's (FCTA) Land Swap Scheme. Imo: Economic & Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) arrests erstwhile Imo state Commissioner for Local Government Affairs, Jerry Okolie, in Owerri, Imo state. DISCOS: Nigerian Electricity Regulatory Commission (NERC) orders electricity distribution companies to stop new tariff due to failure to install meters already paid for by customers since January 2011.

S.J News• [July 25, 2013]

S.J News• [July 25, 2013]• http://sjnewss.blogspot.com/ Cassava Bread Fund: President Jonathan approves ₦10bn for Federal Ministry of Agriculture & Rural Development's -Dr Akinwumi Adesina (Minister of Agriculture). SSG: Umana Okon Umana (Secretary to Akwa Ibom State Govt) to contest in 2015 Akwa Ibom gubernatorial election. Constitution Amendment: House of Representatives rejects immunity for indicted President, VP, State Governors & Deputies; To vacate office if convicted of criminal offences. MTN: Michael Ikpoki (fmr MTN Ghana CEO) appointed as MTN Nigeria's CEO; Replaces Brett Goschen (now Chief Financial Officer & Executive Financial Director, Board of MTN Group). FCT: Federal Executive Council (FEC) approves ₦22.6bn for provision of infrastructure @ Guzape District, Federal Capital Territory. FG Contracts: Federal Executive Council (FEC) directs government Ministries, Departments & Agencies (MDA) to desist from variations in government contracts beyond 15% of original contract sum. Cabinet to Professorship: Dr Mohammed Ali Pate (Minister of State for Health) voluntarily resigns to take up position of Professor in Duke University’s Global Health Institute, USA. Madrid to Ferrol: Train derails in north-western Spain; All 8 carriages came off tracks; No fewer than 60 persons killed; Over 100 injured. 3rd in Line to Throne: Duke & Duchess of Cambridge names son George Alexander Louis 2 days after his birth; To be known as His Royal Highness Prince George of Cambridge.

S.J News• [July 24, 2013]

S.J News• [July 24, 2013]• http://sjnewss.blogspot.com/ House: Cheaper mortgages to be expected in 2014 -Dr Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala (Minister of Finance & Coordinating Minster of the Economy). Oil & Gas: Federal Government gives approval to 40 companies for importation of 3.4 million tonnes of petrol in the 3rd quarter of 2013 -Reuters. Monetary Policy Committee (MPC): 50% of public sector deposits to be kept as Cash Reserve Requirement (CRR); CRR on private sector deposits & MPR retained @ 12% -Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN). ASUU Strike: Implementation of 2009 Agreement signed with Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU) is impossible -Emeka Wogu (Minister of Labour &Productivity). Constitution Review: Malfunctioning of electronic voting device stalls House of Representatives' proceedings. Ekiti: Ekiti state PDP suspends Ayo Fayose (Gov aspirant), 3 members of State Executive Committee -Makanjuola Ogundipe (Chairman, Ekiti PDP). Compressed Natural Gas: Federal Government to introduce National Production Monitoring System (NPMS) for accurate measurement of oil production soon. Camp Nou: Gerardo "Tata" Martino's (50 years; Argentine) signs 2-year deal with Barcelona as Manager

S.J News• [July 23, 2013]

S.J News• [July 23, 2013]• http://sjnewss.blogspot.com/ Ghost Workers: Federal Government saves ₦119bn through Integrated Payroll & Personnel Information System (IPPIS); 46,000 names deleted from MDA's payroll -Dr Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala (Minister of Finance). East West Road: Mrs Patience Jonathan's (1st lady) mother dies in motor accident @ Elele, Rivers state, en route to Bayelsa state. Revenue: FG earned about ₦522.1bn from Petroleum Profit Tax (PPT), Royalties & domestic Crude Oil & Gas sales in May 2013 -Central Bank of Nigeria. National Reconciliation Committee (NRC): Gov Seriake Dickson (Bayelsa) heads 30-man panel to reconcile members of Peoples Democratic Party (PDP). Yobe: State Government signs ₦12.9bn contract with 4 contractors for construction of 4 major Trans Sahara route in Yobe state. Trapped Revenue: Federal Government recovers ₦34bn out of ₦58bn revenue trapped in Deposit Money Banks 1 month after Finance Minister accuses MDA of colluding with banks. 3rd in Line to Throne: Catherine (Duchess of Cambridge) births baby boy @ 16:24 (BST), St Mary's Hospital in Paddington, West London; Weighs 8 pounds, 6 ounces.

S.J News• [July 22, 2013]

S.J News• [July 22, 2013]• http://sjnewss.blogspot.com/ ₦700bn Loan: Socio-Economic Rights & Accountability Project (SERAP) drags FG to Federal High Court, Ikoyi seeking information on expenditure of ₦700bn borrowed between December 31, 2012 & April 30, 2013. IOCs in the Delta: International Oil Companies' (IOC) not transparent in process of award of Pipeline Surveillance Contracts -Kingsley Kuku (Chairman, Presidential Amnesty Programme & SA to President on Niger Delta). Emergency Rule: Joint Security Task Force (JTF) reviews Yobe state curfew; Restriction of movement now from 9pm to 6am daily -Lt Eli Lazarus (JTF Spokesman). Nollywood: Federal Government approves ₦300m capacity building fund for Nigerian film industry as part of ₦3bn Entertainment Fund pledged by President Jonathan -Ministry of Finance. Debt Profile: Nigeria's Local & International debt hits $50.91bn (₦7.93tn) -Debt Management Office (DMO). 2013 MBGN: Governor Seriake Dickson (Bayelsa) appoints 18-year-old Anna Ebiere Banner (Miss Nigeria & Miss Bayelsa) as Special Assistant on Culture & Tourism. Dad's Abdication, Son's Coronation: Prince Philippe (53yrs) sworn in as new Belgian king after the abdication of his father, Albert II, @ the royal palace in Brussels, Belgium.

S.J News• [July 21, 2013]

S.J News• [July 21, 2013]• http://sjnewss.blogspot.com/ 2015: President Jonathan holds meeting behind closed doors with Olusegun Obasanjo (erstwhile president) in his Hilltop Mansion, Abeokuta, Ogun state. Fire Disaster: Over ₦50bn annual loss to fire disaster in Nigeria -Olusegun Okebiorun (Comptroller General, Federal Fire Service). Academic Staff Union of Universities: Threatens to prolong ongoing strike; Could be indefinite if FG remains insensitive to lecturers' plight & refuses to honour ASUU/FG agreement -ASUU. Emergency Rule: Aliko Dangote donates ₦1bn to Adamawa, Borno & Yobe state; FG releases ₦450bn for the 3 states; Adamawa ₦100m, Borno ₦200m, Yobe ₦150m. Sugar: Kogi State Government offers 20,000 hectares of land in Kogi state to Dangote Group for sugar plantation & sugar refinery -Gov Idris Wada (Kogi). Broadband Plan: Federal Government inaugurates National Broadband Council; Mrs Omobola Johnson (Minister of Communication Technology) as Chairman.

S.J News• [July 20, 2013]

S.J News• [July 20, 2013]• http://sjnewss.blogspot.com/ SAN: Legal Practitioners’ Privileges Committee LPPC approves appointment of 19 new Senior Advocates of Nigeria (SAN) for 2013; 44 legal practitioners invited for interview. Crude Oil Theft: Federal Government urges UK, other countries to desist from purchase of stolen crude oil to help curtail crude oil theft in Nigeria. Kidnap: British man abducted in Lagos shortly after arriving @ Murtala Mohammed International Airport; Rescue scheme underway -Frank Mba (Police Spokesperson). Taraba: Court of Appeal, Abuja upholds impeachment of erstwhile Deputy Governor of Taraba state, Sani Abubakar Danladi; Appeal dismissed for lacking merit. Anambra 2013: Ifeanyi Uba (CEO, Capital Oil) picks Labour Party form in preparation for November 16 gubernatorial election in Anambra state. Crude Oil: Nigerian Navy destroys over 30 trucks carrying illegal crude oil, Sets ablaze illegal refineries in Warri, Delta state -Commodore Mohammed Garba (Commanding Officer, NNS Delta, Warri Naval Base). Malaria: US Government to support malaria prevention & control initiative in Nigeria with $73m (about ₦11.3bn) -Mrs Dehab Ghebreab (acting United States Consul-General).

S.J News• [July 19, 2013]

S.J News• [July 19, 2013]• http://sjnewss.blogspot.com/ PIB: Full implementation of Petroleum Induistry Bill, if passed into law, to begin in 5 year’s time -Diezani Alison-Madueke (Minister of Petroleum Resources). Dangote: Foundation disburses ₦10bn grant to women & youths in 774 Local Governments in Nigeria; Disbursement to be completed in 24 months -Aliko Dangote (President, Dangote Foundation). NJC: Immediate past Chief Judge of FCT High Court, Justice Lawal Hassan Gummi, found guilty of misconduct for interfering with execution of judgment delivered by Justice Okechukwu Okeke of FCT High Court. AMCON-Owned: Federal Government appoints Citigroup & Vetiva to manage sale of Enterprise Bank Ltd -Mustapha Chike-Obi (CEO, AMCON). Mali Operations: Some troops to be withdrawn from Mali soon due to internal security challenges in Nigeria -Brig-Gen Chris Olukolade (Director of Defence Information). East Africa Banking: GTBank to acquire 70% stake in Kenya’s Fina Bank Ltd for $100m; Fina Bank with total assets of $338m and operations in Kenya, Rwanda & Uganda.

S.J News• [July 18, 2013]

S.J News• [July 18, 2013]• http://sjnewss.blogspot.com/ Tertiary Education: Academic Staff Union of Universities won't call of strike until fulfilment of Federal Government/ASUU 2009 agreement -ASUU. Attempted Murder: Police declares Majority Leader of Rivers State House of Assembly, Chidi Lloyd, wanted for involvement in Rivers Assembly crisis. Ondo: Gov Olusegun Mimiko (Ondo) approves appointment of Toyin Akinkuotu as new Head of Civil Service of the Ondo state; To resume office on July 20, 2013. Cabinet Dissloved: Gov Rochas Okorocha (Imo) sacks all Commissioners, Special Advisers, Senior Special Assistants. NAF: Nigerian Air Force arrests Air Marshal Alex Badeh's (Chief of Air Staff) impersonator on Facebook (social media website) -Air Commodore Yusuf Anas (NAF Director of Public Relations & Information). Gombe: State government relaxes restriction of motorcycle movement in Gombe state; To operate from 6am to 11pm -Kudu Nma (Commissioner of Police). Monarch: Gov Ibrahim Hassan Dankwambo (Gombe) approves suspension of Adamu Haruna Yakubu (Emir of Pindiga) in Kumo Local Council Area, Gombe state.

S.J News• [July 17, 2013]

S.J News• [July 17, 2013]• http://sjnewss.blogspot.com/ Polytechnic Teachers: Academic Staff Union of Polytechnics (ASUP) suspends 3-month-old nationwide strike due to progress in negotiation with Federal Government. 1999 Constitution: Unlike House of Representatives, Senate rejects Local Councils’ financial autonomy. Infrastructure: Federal Government to get ₦2.5bn (€12m) European Union (EU) grant for boosting infrastructure -Dr David MacRae (EU Ambassador to Nigeria & ECOWAS). Closure of Trans Niger Pipeline (TNP): Shell shuts 624 MW Afam VI Independent Power Plant due to shortage of gas supply; Nigeria's power output drops by 105MW. Malabu Oil Deal: House of Reps summons Mohammed Adoke (Attoney-General) over letter purportedly written to Global Witness (foreign organisation) absolving him from $1.092bn deal. Constitution Amendment: Senate lays to rest proposal for 6-year single tenure for President & Governors; Also rejects mayoral status for Federal Capital Territory (FCT). FG v Journalist: High Court, Abuja subpoenas President Jonathan to testify against 2 Leadership Newspaper journalists over alleged forgery & publication of presidential directives’ bromide.

S.J News• [July 16, 2013]

S.J News• [July 16, 2013]• http://sjnewss.blogspot.com/ FAAC: Federation Accounts Allocation Committee distributes ₦718.10bn among 3 tiers of government for the month of June; 620.56bn shared in May -Dr Yerima Ngama (Minister of State for Finance). APGA: Court of Appeal, Enugu reinstates Victor Umeh as National Chairman of All Progressives Grand Alliance (APGA); Ousted by Enugu High Court on February 8, 2013. NDLEA: Over ₦93.1bn seized from drug traffickers transferred to the Economic & Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) since 2006 -Ahmadu Giade (Chairman, National Drug Law Enforcement Agency). ₦47.1bn: High Court, Ikeja dismisses application filed by Erastus Akingbola (fmr MD, Intercontinental Bank) seeking to quash alleged ₦47.1bn theft charge preferred against him by EFCC. FDI: Nigeria records $7bn worth of Foreign Direct Investments in 2012; Biggest beneficiary of FDI in Africa -United Nations Conference on Trade and Development (UNCTAD). Brandished Mace: Gov Rotimi Amaechi (Rivers) inaugurates 9-man commission of inquiry on Rivers State House of Assembly crisis; Justice Biobele Georgewill as Chairman; Report to be submitted on or before October 15.

S.J News• [July 16, 2013]

S.J News• [July 16, 2013]• http://sjnewss.blogspot.com/ FAAC: Federation Accounts Allocation Committee distributes ₦718.10bn among 3 tiers of government for the month of June; 620.56bn shared in May -Dr Yerima Ngama (Minister of State for Finance). APGA: Court of Appeal, Enugu reinstates Victor Umeh as National Chairman of All Progressives Grand Alliance (APGA); Ousted by Enugu High Court on February 8, 2013. NDLEA: Over ₦93.1bn seized from drug traffickers transferred to the Economic & Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) since 2006 -Ahmadu Giade (Chairman, National Drug Law Enforcement Agency). ₦47.1bn: High Court, Ikeja dismisses application filed by Erastus Akingbola (fmr MD, Intercontinental Bank) seeking to quash alleged ₦47.1bn theft charge preferred against him by EFCC. FDI: Nigeria records $7bn worth of Foreign Direct Investments in 2012; Biggest beneficiary of FDI in Africa -United Nations Conference on Trade and Development (UNCTAD). Brandished Mace: Gov Rotimi Amaechi (Rivers) inaugurates 9-man commission of inquiry on Rivers State House of Assembly crisis; Justice Biobele Georgewill as Chairman; Report to be submitted on or before October 15.

S.J News• [July 15, 2013]

S.J News• [July 15, 2013]• http://sjnewss.blogspot.com/ Clocks 79 Years: Prof Wole Soyinka (Nobel Laureate) hosts 79 secondary school students @ his residence; I had a 2nd class upper, not 3rd class as speculated -Soyinka. ACN Ogun: Action Congress of Nigeria, Yewa-South suspends Abiodun Akinlade (House of Reps; Yewa South/ Ipokia Federal Constituency), 12 others for alleged anti-party activities. Electricity Supply (Up & Down like Wall Street): Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) rejects Nigerian Electricity Regulatory Commission's (NERC) new tariff; Arbitrarily upped 4rm ₦225 to over ₦700. Mast: Communication masts in Lagos state must be erected with galvanised steel materials, not hollow pipes; Height between 30m & 50m; Telecoms operators unaffected -Urban Furniture Regulatory Unit (UFRU). Nautical: Federal Government summons NPA, NIMASA, Maritime Workers Union of Nigeria (MWUN), others for resolution of planned strike by workers. Kogi: State government owes retired civil servants over ₦9.8bn in accumulated pension arrears, gratuities, death benefits -Kogi State Pension Board. Alleged Drug Ingestion: Babatunde Omidina (aka Baba Suwe) drags NDLEA to Supreme Court over ₦25m compensation awarded to him by High Court, Lagos. Abidjan-Lagos: Highway development project may gulp up to $2bn -Ebima Njie (Commissioner for Infrastructure, Economic Community of West African States Commission).

S.J News• [July 14, 2013]

S.J News• [July 14, 2013]• http://sjnewss.blogspot.com/ 18km Project: Gov Rauf Aregbesola (Osun) kicks off construction of ₦14.57bn East bypass road in Osogbo, Osun state. Kebbi: Army intercepts petrol tanker loaded with arms & ammunitions in Kebbi state; 3 AK 47 riffles, 1 RPG-2, 9 AK 47 magazines, 2 bombs, 3 RPG chargers, 790 rounds of 7.62mm of special ammunitions recovered. PDP: South-West caucus of PDP endorses Prof Wale Oladipo (Osun) as new National Secretary of PDP; Position declared vacant due to court judgment against Olagunsoye Oyinlola. Staff Housing Loans Scheme: Gov Olusegun Mimiko (Ondo) disburses ₦62m loans to Ondo state civil servants; Loans to be repaid in 15 years @ 3% interest rate. Kidnap: Special Task Force (STF) rescues 8 persons abducted in Jos; Victims locked up in Chiwarana Hotel @ Zinaria, Jos North LG, Plateau state. New Century Global Centre: World's largest building opened in China; 500m long, 400m wide; 100m (300ft) high; Floor area 3 times that of Pentagon.

S.J News• [July 13, 2013]

S.J News• [July 13, 2013]• http://sjnewss.blogspot.com/ Death Sentence: Court of Appeal, Lagos acquits Major Hamza Al-Mustapha (fmr CSO to Abacha) & Lateef Shofolahan (fmr aide to MKO Abiola). ₦6.5bn Pension Scam: Federal High Court, Abuja grants Sani Teidi (fmr Director, Pension Accounts, Office of HOCSF) ₦500m bail with 2 sureties in like sum after 39 days @ Kuje Maximum prison. Money Laundering (en route Egypt): Federal High Court, Kano convicts Gov Sule Lamido's (Jigawa) son, Aminu Sule Lamido; Nabbed @ Mallam Aminu Kano Int'l Airport with undeclared $50,000. Fraud: Central Bank of Nigeria to launch e-fraud reporting portal for reporting fraudulent cases from use of electronic payment channels -CBN. Pipeline: Nigeria Security & Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) nabs 6 pipeline vandals near Ago-Odigbo village, off Benin-Ore expressway -Waheed Popoola (State Commandant, NSCDC). Advocate of Female Education: Malala Yousafzai (Pakistani), girl nearly killed by Taliban gunmen, gave 1st formal public remarks on Friday, her 16th birthday, @ United Nations.

S.J News• [July 12, 2013]

S.J News• [July 12, 2013]• http://sjnewss.blogspot.com/ NFF: President Jonathan to commission new Nigeria Football Federation secretariat on July 18; Remains of funds raised by task force for World Cup used for construction. GSM: Defence HQ, Abuja authorises restoration of GSM services in Adamawa state; Cut off following declaration of state of emergency in Adamawa, Borno & Yobe on May 16. Deportation: Nigerian Immigrations Service (NIS) parades 120 illegal immigrants from Chad, Ghana, Guinea, Mali & Niger; 450 persons arrested, 120 without valid papers. Abuse of Court Process: Federal High Court, Abuja rejects EFCC's bid to seize 48 properties allegedly owned by Timpriye Sylva (erstwhile Bayelsa Gov). 2013 Budget Appraisal: Lagos state records 83% 2nd quarter budget performance; 1st quarter performance @ 61% -Gov Babatunde Fashola (Lagos). Death Sentence: Court of Appeal, Lagos to deliver judgment 2day in appeals filed by Major Hamza al-Mustapha (fmr CSO to Abacha) & Lateef Shofolahan (fmr aide to Kudirat Abiola). Lagos: Owners of abandoned buildings used as hideouts by criminals to be prosecuted -Umaru Manko (Commissioner of Police, Lagos). Where Naija Court @?: Italian court fines Saipem (Italian Oil & Gas company) £600,000 for bribing Nigerian officials; £24.5m worth of assets confiscated.

S.J News• [July 11, 2013]

S.J News• [July 11, 2013]• http://sjnewss.blogspot.com/ Rivers State: House of Representatives to take over legislative affairs of Rivers State House of Assembly for resolution of crisis. NNPC: House of Reps Committee on Finance rejects Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation's ₦384.9bn operational loss between 2009 & 2011. CCECC: China Civil Engineering Construction Corporation to construct $1bn cement factory in Tin Can Port -Yuan Li (CCECC President). White Stuff: 5.9kg of cocaine with ₦74m worth abandoned @ Murtala Muhammed International Airport (MMIA), Lagos; Detected by National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA). Tax Obligation: Senate orders Nigeria Liquefied Natural Gas (NLNG) to pay $158m tax to Nigerian Maritime Administration & Safety Agency (NIMASA). ₦47.1bn Theft: Erastus Akingbola (fmr MD, Intercontinental Bank) urges High Court, Ikeja to quash charges preferred against him by EFCC. Rivers: President Jonathan not involved in Rivers State House of Assembly crisis -Doyin Okupe (Senior Special Assistant to President on Public Affairs). Deposit Money Banks: ₦166bn dud cheques issued by customers between January & December 2012; To collaborate with EFCC for prosecution of errant issuers -Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN).

S.J News• [July 10, 2013]

S.J News• [July 10, 2013]• http://sjnewss.blogspot.com/ Constitution: Senate rejects 6-year single term proposal by Senate Committee on Review of Constitution. Osun: State government begins ₦2bn rehabilitation of Ede Water Works; Supplies over 70% of Osun state's water needs -Mrs Tawa Williams (SA to Gov on Water Resources). Anambra Gov: Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) fixes Anambra state gubernatorial election for November 16, 2013. Safe Funds: Biometric authentication for Point of Sales (PoS) terminals & Automated Teller Machines (ATM) to begin in 2015 -Sanusi Lamido Sanusi (CBN Gov). Oloffa Of Offa Dethroned: Appeal court, Ilorin nullifies appointment & installation of Mufutau Gbadamosi (Olofa of Offa); Orders immediate installation of Abdulrauf Adegboyega Keji. Gas Flaring: Federal Government loses about ₦289.6bn annually to gas flaring; International Oil Companies (IOC) flare 1.4bn cubic feet of gas daily -Department of Petroleum Resources (DPR). INEC: Independent National Electoral Commission approves appointment of Mrs Augusta Chinwe Ogakwu as Secretary; Succeeds Abdullahi Kaugama, whose 5-year tenure expired on June 26. Anti-Amaechi v Pro-Amaechi: Fracas @ Rivers State House of Assembly over attempt to impeach Otelemaba Amachree (Speaker); Fake mace allegedly smuggled. Football: Nigeria Football Federation suspends 4 football clubs indefinitely for outrageous results of 79-0 & 67-0 in promotion play-off into Nigeria Nationwide League.

S.J News• [July 9, 2013]

S.J News• [July 9, 2013]• http://sjnewss.blogspot.com/ Finance: European Commission ups financial intervention budget for socio-economic services in Nigeria to €724m (₦166.5bn). Niger Delta: ₦191bn ($1.23bn) lost in 1st quarter of 2013 due to crude oil theft & vandalisation of major oil pipelines -Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation (NNPC). 2015: Governors buy, lease private jets for acquisition of arms ahead of 2015 elections -Osita Okereke (DG, National Task Force on Illegal Importation of Light Weapons & Small Arms). Economic Report: Revenue generated by Federal Government declines by 14.7% to ₦805.91bn in April, 2013 -Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN). Agric: Over ₦80bn made in agriculture sector from private investors within the last 12 months -President Jonathan. Flood: Federal Government to provide 550 housing units for 2012 flood victims nationwide -Mohammed Dabarako (Chairman, Committee on Flood, Relief & Rehabilitation).

S.J News• [July 8, 2013]

S.J News• [July 8, 2013]• http://sjnewss.blogspot.com/ Mobile Number Portability (MNP): Telecommunications operators to be fined ₦200,000 per subscriber for difficulty in porting to other networks -Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC). Governors: South-East, South-South Governors' meeting held on Sunday in Enugu state; Gov Rochas Okorocha (Imo), Gov Adams Oshiomhole (Edo) & Gov Rotimi Amaechi (Rivers) absent. Electricity: Nigerian Electricity Regulatory Commission (NERC) establishes public complaints office in Kaduna state for challenges in power sector. Liquidity Support: Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) to set up ₦200bn fund for Microfinance Banks (MFB), Small & Medium Enterprises (SME). Bayelsa: Unknown gunmen abduct Special Adviser to Gov Seriake Dickson on Power, Olice Kemenanabo in Port Harcourt, Rivers state. Miss Nigeria 2013: Beauty pageant held @ Intercontinental hotel, VI, Lagos on Saturday, July 6; Ezinne Akudo (22yrs) triumphs with star prize of a brand new car, trip to California & ₦3m. NASRDA: Dr S.O Mohammed returns as Director General of National Space Research & Development Agency; Appointed to a full 5-year term, effective July 2, 2013.

S.J News• [Jul 7, 2013]

S.J News• [July 7, 2013]• http://sjnewss.blogspot.com/ Review of 1999 Constitution: Presidency rejects House of Representatives' proposal for removal of immunity clause; President, Vice president, State Governors & Deputy Governors as beneficiaries. Army: Colonel Texas Chukwu appointed as new spokesman for headquarters of 3 Division of the Nigerian Army, Maxwell Khobe Cantonment, Rukuba, Jos. NEPZA: Total investment generated in Nigeria's free zone @ ₦1.6tn ($10bn) -Oluwagbemiga Kuye (MD, Nigeria Export Processing Zones Authority). FG Roads: Akwa Ibom stateto be refunded ₦20bn for expenses incurred on construction of federal roads in 2013 -Ogbuefi Ozorogbachi (Chairman, House Committee on Works). Oil Theft: Shell Petroleum Developing Company (SPDC ) resumes production; Trans-Niger PiZe (TNP) shutdown due to sabotage on June 19; Lost 150,000 barrels of oil per day. Economic Review: Federally-collected revenue for April @ ₦805.91bn, 14.7% below budget estimate, -Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN). ₦120m Cash Prize: Gov Peter Obi (Anambra) named best performing governor on eradication of polio in southeast by Bill Gates & Melinda Foundation in Awka, Anambra state.

S.J News• [Jul 6, 2013]

S.J News• [July 6, 2013]• http://sjnewss.blogspot.com/ Lagos-Ibadan: Reconstruction of & expansion works of 127.6km expressway begins; To gulp ₦167bn & to be completed in 48 months; Julius Berger & Reynold Construction Company (RCC) as contractors. Welfare & Social Security Scheme: 75 years & above indigenes of Bayelsa state to receive monthly stipends of ₦5,000 -Gov Seriake Dickson (Bayelsa). Emergency Rule: Federal Govt to distribute 25,000 metric tons of assorted grains in Adamawa, Borno & Yobe state -Dr Yerima Ngama (Minister of state for Finance). July 11: Dr Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala (Minister of Finance) to unveil 2013 Economic Report of Africa in collaboration with Centre for the Study of the Economies of Africa (CSEA). Civil Service: Mrs Joan Ayo (Chairman, Federal Civil Service Commission) converts cubicle in office into detention centre for defaulting members of staff of the commission. Legal: President Jonathan approves appointment of Justice Kekere-Ekun as a Justice of the Supreme Court of Nigeria on recommendation of National Judicial Council (NJC). Agric: Nigeria to earn between $802m to $1.37bn as exports of dried cassava chips to China & Europe in 2013 -Dr Akinnwnmi Adeshina (Minister of Agriculture).

S.J News• [July 5, 2013]

S.J News• [July 5, 2013]• http://sjnewss.blogspot.com/ Judiciary: Federal Judicial Service Commission (FJSC) dismisses 5 workers of Supreme Court & 1 from Court of Appeal, Abuja for leakage of undelivered judgment. Agric: Nigeria spends ₦360bn for importation of rice, ₦217bn for sugar & ₦97bn for fish anually -Dr Akinwunmi Adesina (Minister of Agriculture & Rural Development). Calabar: Appeal Court, Calabar removes Etubom Ekpo Okon Abasi Otu as Obong of Calabar; due proces snot followed; Selection of incumbent null & void -Court. Infrastructure: About ₦15tn needed by FG within the next 5 years for infrastructure deficit & implementation of interim National Integrated Infrastructure Plan (NIMP). ₦43m Scam: Federal High Court, Abuja acquits Hassan Lawal (fmr Minister of Works), Dismisses criminal charge filed by EFCC. Fraud: Lagos High Court, Igbosere orders Erastus Akingbola (fmr MD, Intercontinental Bank), to pay Access Bank ₦212.2bn. Where Pen-thieves @?: Magistrates' Court, Ikeja sentences 28-year-old man to 6 months imprisonment without an option of fine for stealing ₦5,000 Nokia phone. Bauchi: Over ₦5bn spent on procurement of fertiliser & chemicals since 2007 -Tasiu Mohammed (Commissioner, Agriculture & Natural Resources).

S.J News• [July 4, 2013]

S.J News• [July 4, 2013]• http://sjnewss.blogspot.com/ Electricity: Power generation in Nigeria to peak @ 10,000 megawatts by end of December 2014; between 17 & 18 hours of daily supply of power -Zainaib Ibrahim Kuchi (Minister of State for Power). NIN: Enrolment activities for National Identification Number @ NIMC offices in all state capitals begun -National Identity Management Commission (NIMC). Ghana Mining: 3,877 illegail Chinese miners repatriated between June 1 & June 25 -Francis Palmdetti (Public Affairs Director). Cabinet Shake up: Gov Chime Sullivan sacks Simon Ortuanya (Commissioner for Education); Replaced with Prof Chris Okoro. 11.5 Years: Access Bank Board of Directors appoints Herbert Wigwe as GMD/CEO; Aigboje Aig-Imoukhuede (46yrs; Incumbent) to retire from bank in December, 2013. 2 NGF Chairmen: High Court @ Jabi, Abuja fixes July 17, to commence hearing on case filed by Gov Babatunde Fashola (Lagos) against Gov Jonah Jang (Plateau). NSC: House of Representatives summons Gbenga Elegbeleye (Director General, National Sports Commission) vis-à-vis missing ₦3.085bn in 2010 financial year. NUPENG: Nigeria Union of Petroleum & Natural Gas Worker suspends 3-day warning strike after NUPENG/NNPC/Stakeholders meeting -Achese Igwe (NUPENG President). INEC: Federal Executive Council (FEC) approves ₦459m for purchase of 17,000 Smart Card Readers for conduction of elections -Labaran Maku (Minister of Information). Military Coup: Egypt's 1st democratically elected president, Mohamed Morsi, ousted over failure to meet demands; Head of Constitutional Court to be sworn in as interim leader on Thursday -Abdul Fatah Khalil al Sisi (Commander of Armed Forces).

S.J News• [July 3, 2013]

S.J News• [July 3, 2013]• http://sjnewss.blogspot.com/ Borno: State Govt signs MoU with 18th Bureau Group Ltd (Chinese firm) to train Borno state Civil engineers, employees of construction engineering. Teachers: Over 80% of primary school teachers in 19 Northern states unqualified -Aminu Sharehu (Director-General, National Teachers Institute). Sugar Master Plan: Federal Government begins implementation of Backward Integration Policy; National Sugar Master Plan approved October 19, 2012 by FEC. 2013 Budget: President Jonathan urges Senate to reverse ₦78.54bn cut from capital allocations to Federal Government Ministries, Departments & Agencies. Cashless Policy: Charges for Individual & Corporate lodging or withdrawals above prescribed limits in all 6 states deferred till October 1, 2013 -Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN). NGSF: Gov Isa Yuguda (Bauchi) rescinds decision to withdraw from Northern States Governors’ Forum -Yusuf Musa Gumli (Gov's Chief of Staff).

S.J News• [July 2, 2013]

S.J News• [July 2, 2013]• http://sjnewss.blogspot.com/ ASUU v FG: Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU) embarked on indefinite strike due to Federal Govt's failure to implement part of 2009 agreement. Human Immunodeficiency Virus: 1 million Nigerians living with HIV virus to be put on anti-retroviral (ARV) treatment by December 2015 -National Agency for the Control of AIDS (NACA). NSCDC: No fewer than 473 oil thieves arrested, 259 illegal refineries destroyed -Dr Ade Aboderin (Commandant-General, Nigerian Security & Civil Defence Corps). Service Chiefs: Federal High Court, Abuja nullifies appointment of Service Chiefs; Lt-Gen Azubuike Ihejirika (Army), Vice Admiral Dele Ezeoba (Naval), Air Marshal Alex Badeh (Air force) affected. Agric: World Bank approves credit facilities of $300m for Nigeria to boost farming output & food security -Akinwunmi Adesina (Minister of Agriculture). Police Uniform: Federal Government to phase out police black uniform; ₦1.7bn approved for bulk purchase of new uniform for officers and rank & file.

S.J News• [July 1, 2013]

S.J News• [July 1, 2013]• http://sjnewss.blogspot.com/ Pension: Gov Kayode Fayemi (Ekiti) approves payment of ₦1bn arrears 1,755 beneficiaries in Ekiti state. Economy: FG can't meet infrastructure needs by spending ₦4.99tn without leveraging the Capital Market -Ms Arunma Oteh (DG, Securities & Exchange Commission). Prison Break, not Scofield: 175 inmates escape from Medium Security Prison, Olokuta, Ondo state. Emergency Rule: Bukar Tijani (Minister of State for Agriculture & Rural Development) orders immediate release of agricultural inputs to farmers in Adamawa, Borno & Yobe State. Oil & Gas: Nigeria Union of Petroleum & Natural Gas Workers (NUPENG) begins 3-day warning strike 2day over alleged unfair labour practices by oil multinationals. Lagos Island to Mainland: Gov Babatunde Fashola commissions Carter Bridge Lighting Project; Now brighter @ night.

S.J News• [June 30, 2013]

S.J News• [June 30, 2013]• http://sjnewss.blogspot.com/ Champion of Women: President Jonathan is not a weak & indecisive president -Mrs Diezani Allison-Madueke (Minister of Petroleum Resources). Central Bank of Nigeria: Cashless policy begins in Abia, Anambra, FCT, Kano, Ogun, Rivers state. NYSC: Unknown gunmen abduct 3 corps members @ Corpers’ lodge in Ogonokom Community Secondary school, Abua/Odua LG, Rivers state -Police. Buildings: Lagos State Govt to demolish structures erected on flood plains & natural wetlands in Lagos state -Tunji Bello (Commissioner for Environment). Diaspora: Nigerians in Diaspora remitted about $21.89bn in 2012 & $20.61bn in 2011 -Dr Shamsudeen Usman (Minister of National Planning). Ogun: Civil servants in Ogun state to have new welfare packages (Civil service Estates, Car Loans) -Bimbo Ashiru (Commissioner for Commerce & Industry).

S.J News• [June 29, 2013]

S.J News• [June 29, 2013]• http://sjnewss.blogspot.com/ Inadequate Funding: Dr Ismail Lawal (National Association of Resident Doctors) tells members to suspend 3-day warning strike & resume work immediately. NIPSS: National institute for Policy & Strategic Studies in collaboration with UN Democratic Governance for Development Project to establish Development Centre for Political Parties in Kuru, Jos, Plateau state. Health: President Jonathan commissions 40-bed Comprehensive Cottage Hospital in Otueke, Ogbia LG, Bayelsa state; Maternal mortality rate dropped by 30% in the last 4years -President Jonathan. Safe H20: Japanese government donates ₦1.2bn borehole drilling equipment to Bauchi & Katsina State for provision of potable drinking water. Comrades Join Forces: Peter Esele (erstwhile Prsident, Trade Union Congress) denies being groomed by Gov Adams Oshiomhole (Edo) for Governor. Healthcare: Nana Kashim Shettima (1st Lady, Borno state) launches Free Child Survival Drugs & Supplies (FCSDS) for children below 5years in Borno state. Pension: Pensioners to receive pensions directly from Accountant General of the Federation (AGF) -Mrs Chinelo Anohu-Amazu (Ag DG, National Pension Commission). Anambra: Ifeanyi Ubah (Capital Oil Boss) joins Labour Party (LP) for 2014 gubernatorial polls in Anambra state.

S.J News• [June 28, 2013]

S.J News• [June 28, 2013]• http://sjnewss.blogspot.com/ Telecoms: Subscribers Identification Modules (SIM) to be disconnected if unregistered by June 30, 2013 -Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC). Loot: ₦28.3bn ($175m) from Abacha family & companies recovered from Liechtenstein -Mohammed Bello Adoke (Minister of Justice). FATCA: Nigerian banks get October 25, 2013 deadline to register with US Internal Revenue Service (IRS) in compliance with Foreign Account Tax Compliance Act requirement. PDP: Peoples Democratic Party reschedules special convention fixed for July 20, 2013; July 11, 2013 South-West Zonal Congress also shifted; New dates yet to be known. UNILORIN: Federal High Court, Ilorin dismisses suit filed against Prof Abdulganiyu Ambali's appointment as Vice Chancellor of University of Ilorin over lack of merit. Agriculture: ₦1.4bn expended on purchase of 11,550 tonnes of fertiliser -Gov Saidu Dakingari (Kebbi). Anti-party Activities: Gbenga Daniel (fmr Ogun Gov) suspended for alleged romance with Labour Party in Ogun state; 12 other PDP members suspended for same offence. NUT: 27.5% enhanced salary scale must be implemented for teachers in all states of the federation -Michael Alogba Olukoya (President, Nigeria Union of Teachers). Industrial Action: Petroleum & Natural Gas Senior Staff Association of Nigeria (PENGASSAN) issues 7-day ultimatum to FG over anti-labour practices in oil & gas industry. Police: 1% of state monthly allocations to be deducted for funding Nigerian Police Force -National Economic Council (NEC).

S.J News• [June 27, 2013]

S.J News• [June 27, 2013]• http://sjnewss.blogspot.com/ Aviaition: Captain Fola Akinkuotu confirmed as Director General of Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA) by Senate. Atlas Cove: Pipeline vandals rupture Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation (NNPC) oil pipeline @ Akinbo jetty, Ilado on Wednesday to siphon petroleum products. The Road: Driving school to be established in Osun state for training of road users & guidelines on road usage -Gov Rauf Aregbesola (Osun). Kano: 3,241 suspected criminals arrested in Kano state in the last 6 months; 2,741 of these charged to court -Kano State Police Command. Nasarawa: Gov Umaru Tanko Al-Makura inaugurates 9-man Judicial Commission of Inquiry over killings of security operatives @ Alakyio village, Lafia, Nasarawa state; Headed by Joseph Fola Gbadeyan. Judiciary: Senate confirms appointment of Justice Kudirat Kekere-Ekun as Justice of Supreme Court of Nigeria. Road: Reconstruction of Lagos-Ibadan Expressway to cost Federal Government ₦160.7bn -Dr Doyin Okupe (SSA to President on Public Affairs). Labor Party: Kevin Rudd returns as Australian prime minister with 57-45 vote 3 years after being replaced by Julia Gillard (erstwhile Deputy).

S.J News• [June 26, 2013]

S.J News• [June 26, 2013]• http://sjnewss.blogspot.com/ Developing Countries: 1st D-8 Trade Minister council meeting holds in Abuja, Nigeria to boost economy; Bangladesh, Egypt, Indonesia, Iran, Malaysia, Nigeria, Pakistan & Turkey involved. Lack of Funds: National Association of Resident Doctors of Nigeria (NARD) to begin 3-day warning strike from June 23 (2day) over lackadaisical attitude of FG towards residency training. Market: Mrs Folashade Tinubu-Ojo (Bola Tinubu's daughter) succeeds late Abibatu Mogaji (grandmother) as President-General, Association of Nigerian Market Women & Men. APC: Bisi Akande appoiinted as interim National Chairman, All Progressives Congress; Aminu Masari (fmr House of Reps Speaker) as Deputy National Chairman, North -Rotimi Fahakin (APC Spokesman). EFCC: High Court, Abuja orders Mohammed Abubakar (IG of Police) to arrest Ibrahim Lamorde (EFCC Chairman) for disobeying valid court order; We will appeal ruling -EFCC. False Identity: 27-year-old impostor of Gov Emmanuel Uduaghan (Delta) on Facebook (social networking site) arraigned before Asaba Chief Magistrate’s court. MDA: Federal Government bans civil servants from accepting chieftaincy titles except after retirement or disengagement from servic -Bukar Goni Aji (Head of Civil Service of the Federation). Coach: Carlo Ancelotti (erstwhile Paris St Germain manager) appointed on a 3-year contract as Real Madrid coach; Laurent Blanc now PSG coach.

S.J News• [June 25, 2013]

S.J News• [June 25, 2013]• http://sjnewss.blogspot.com/ Roads: Gov Babatunde Fashola (Lagos) approves construction & rehabilitation of 70 new roads in Lagos state. Currency Stabilisation: $500m sold yesterday @ bi-weekly foreign exchange auction to forestall depreciation of Naira -Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN). ₦338.8m Scam: Adeyemi Ikuforiji (Speaker, Lagos State House of Assembly), Oyebode Atoyebi (PA) re-arraigned by EFCC before Federal High Court, Lagos for alleged money laundering. 2 Kings, 1 Throne (Amaechi v Jang): Gov Chibuike Amaechi (Rivers) summons Nigeria Governors’ Forum (NGF) meeting in Abuja for Wednesday. ₦25bn Fraud: EFCC to close case against Michael Igbinedion (Lucky Igbinedion's younger brother), 5 others by September 23, 2013. Oyo: Gov Abiola Ajimobi (Oyo) to inaugurate 640m flyover @ Mokola roundabout, Ibadan, Ultra-modern motor park @ Podo, Ibadan & Neighbourhood market @ Scout Camp, Challenge, Ibadan 2day. Train: Derailment of Lagos-bound locomotive passenger train from Kano state injures no fewer than 4 persons in Kakawu area, Chikun LG, Kaduna state on Monday. Electricity: Power supply reduced by 1.598MW due to pipeline vandalism; Causes load shedding -Transmission Company of Nigeria (TCN).

S.J News• [June 24, 2013]

S.J News• [June 24, 2013]• http://sjnewss.blogspot.com/ NAC: Nigerians spend about ₦600bn annually on importation of vehicles; 50,000 new & 150,000 used vehicles -Aminu Jalal (DG, National Automotive Council). State of Emergency: 1,500 refugees flee from Nigeria into the northern part of Cameroon -Hadiza Mustapha (Nigerian Ambassador to Cameroon). Aso Rock: President Jonathan & Theophilus Danjuma (fmr Minister of Defence) in closed-door meeting @ Presidential Villa, Abuja on Sunday barely 24 hours after being reported to have criticised Nigeria leadership. Ogbeni Till Day Break: Gov Rauf Aregbesola (Osun) denies slapping his deputy, Mrs Grace Tomori; I have never beaten anybody in my life; Deputy Governor is older than me -Gov Aregbesola. 2015: INEC to unveil Strategic Plan for 2015 elections, other programmes on Wednesday -Prof Attahiru Jega (Chairman, Independent National Electoral Commission). Visas Overstayed: Nigerian citizens, others to pay £3,000 ($4,600,£3,500) bond in cash for UK entry from November, 2013; To be forfeited if you remain illegally @ expiration of visa.

S.J News• [June 23, 2013]

S.J News• [June 23, 2013]• http://sjnewss.blogspot.com/ Housing: World Bank to give FG $300m for establishment of Mortgage Refinancing Company (MRC) for creation of more mortgages in housing sector. NSE X Compliance Report: Nigerian Stock Exchange (NSE) imposes ₦14.8m fine on Julius Berger, Costain (West Africa), 6 other quoted companies for various infractions. 2015 Presidential Tussle: All Nigeria Peoples Party (ANPP) to get 9 positions under All Progressives Congress (APC) merger deal -Ogbonnaya Onu (ANPP National Chairman). Gulf of Guinea: President to depart Nigeria on Sunday (2day) for Yaounde, Cameroon to participate in Summit of West & Central African Heads of State and Government on Maritime Security in the Gulf of Guinea. Osun: No regret praising Gov Rauf Aregbesola (Osun) for his performance in Osun state; I am Speaker for the whole Nigeria, not PDP -Aminu Tambuwal (Speaker, House of Reps). UNIBEN: University of Benin Governing Council terminates appointment of 18 senior staff, bursar; UNIBEN still number 1 sought-after university. Uyo-Bound: Arik flight from Abuja aborts landing in Uyo, Akwa Ibom state due to power failure @ airport; Hovers for 30 minutes & returns to Abuja.

S.J News• [June 22, 2013]

S.J News• [June 22, 2013]• http://sjnewss.blogspot.com/ DPR: President Jonathan approves appointment of George Abiodun Osahon as Director of Department of Petroleum Resources; To replace Osten Olorunshola. Tax Appeal Tribunal, Lagos: Mobil Producing Nigeria Unlimited ordered to pay $83.4m (₦13 .09bn) to Federal Inland Revenue Service (FIRS) as education tax liability for 2008. Flood: Presidential Flood Relief & Rehabilitation Committee to build houses & community centres for victims in 22 affected states; Co-chaired by Aliko Dangote & Olisa Agbakoba (fmr NBA President). Farm to Fork: Ogun state to host 40th National Council on Agriculture & Rural Development; To hold in Abeokuta on Monday, June 24 -Mrs Ronke Sokefun (Commissioner for Agriculture). NUT: Ogun state teachers suspend 3-week strike over demand for payment of 27.5% peculiar allowance; State Govt to pay 15% of basic salaries as peculiar allowance from July, 2013. Delta Guber Tussle: Supreme Court dismisses appeal filed by Great Ogboru (DPP Gov Candidate); Seeks nullification of Gov Emmanuel Uduaghan's (Delta; PDP) election.

S.J News• [June 21, 2013]

S.J News• [June 21, 2013]• http://sjnewss.blogspot.com/ Road FG awards ₦17bn contract for rehabilitation & reconstruction of Lagos-Sagamu Expressway to Julius Berger Nigeria -Wolfgang Goetsch (MD, Julius Berger). MV Euro Cargo Saleno: Nigerian Navy on impounds Belgian vessel over alleged conveyance of toxic waste on Lagos waters. 150,000 bpd: Shell Petroleum Development Company (SPDC) shuts down production from Trans Niger Pipeline (TNP) due to fire outbreak. UN Report: Nigeria received 3,154 refugees & about 1,042 asylum requests in 2012 alone -United Nations High Commission for Refugees (UNHCR). Nigerian Army: 3,000 recruits to undergo counter-terrorism & counter-insurgency training in 4 Nigerian institutions -Brig-Gen Ibrahim Attahiru (Director, Army Public Relation). Housing: Ministry to build 10,000 units in each of the 6 geo-political zones in partnership with Cyrus Projects Nigeria Ltd - Amma Pepple (Minister of Lands, Housing & Urban Development). Kaduna: Gov Muktar Yero (Kaduna) approves law establishing vigilante services across 23 Local Govt Areas in Kaduna state to curb insecurity. Vision 20-2020: About ₦600bn needed for annual construction of 14,000km of roads to achieve Vision 20-2020 goals -Mike Onolememen (Minister of Works). ICC: International Criminal Court schedules President Uhuru Kenyatta's (Kenya) trial for November 12; Accused of orchestrating violence after 2007 election -ICC.

S.J News• [June 20, 2013]

S.J News• [June 20, 2013]• http://sjnewss.blogspot.com/ Power: Federal Executive Council (FEC) approves ₦706m for overhaul of one unit of Jebba Power Plant; Japanese Govt's ₦3.9bn grant subsists -Labaran Maku (Minister of Information). OAU: Obafemi Awolowo University female student caught by authorities in attempt to flush her new born baby. Lorry Chauffeur: Federal High Court, Enugu awards ₦15m damages to Joseph Agu against Nigerian Army; Torture by Sgt Francis Oga on January 15, 2009 led to loss of sight. BPE/NDPHC: Bidders for 10 National Integrated Power Project (NIPP) power plants to be announced on August 8, 2013. FAAC: Federation Accounts Allocation Committee reconvenes; Shares statutory allocation of ₦620.65bn among 3 tiers of Govt for the month of May -Dr Yerima Ngama (Minister of State for Finance). Who's Eavesdropping?: Gov Godswill Akpabio (Akwa Ibom) reshuffles cabinet; 9 commissioners retain portfolios, 5 redeployed, 3 dropped. Legislative Armoury: Ondo State Assembly suspends Fola Olasehinde (Ose Constituency) indefinitely over alleged possession of fetish materials -Dare Emiola (Deputy Speaker). Emergency Rule: Joint Task Force ban use Thuraya phones in Adamawa, Borno, & Yobe states; Get caught & be tagged enemy of state & sponsor of Boko Haram members. Womb to Tomb not Right: Fake Postinor-2 tablets (oral contraceptive) flood Nigerian market -Dr Paul Orhii (Director General, NAFDAC); Unlike Nike, Just Don't Do It if unmarried.

S.J News• [June 19, 2013]

S.J News• [June 19, 2013]• http://sjnewss.blogspot.com/ FERMA: Federal Government to make Lagos/Ibadan expressway a 10-lane road; All Nigerian roads to be motorable in the next 2 years -Jide Adeniji (Chairman, Federal Road Maintenance Agency). Immigration: Over 1,499 illegal & 84 legal entry routes into Nigeria; NIS to construct border control plazas for surveillance -Abba Moro (Minister of Interior). Groundbreaking: President Jonathan inaugurates General Electric’s $1bn manufacturing plant in Calabar, Cross River state. Mobile Number Portability: 50% of MNP subscribers ported to Etisalat -Wael Ammar (Chief Commercial Officer, Etisalat Nigeria); No such data released to public -NCC. KYC: Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) extends Know Your Customer deadline by 8 months. Oil Products Tanker: French sailor freed on Tuesday after being captured by pirates last week from his ship off the coast of Togo & taken to Nigeria -Military Commander. Cargo Terminals: FG designates 13 airports as perishable cargo terminals due to proximity to 'food baskets of the nation'; Abuja, Akure, Calabar, Ilorin, Jalingo, Jos, Kano, Lagos, Makurdi, Minna, Owerri, Port Harcourt & Uyo airports.