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BREAKING: Three persons test positive to coronavirus in Abuja

<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgpGJXQtVE2a2JZrsbKqJQ6U3nyjzpWMZOO-qeLIBnLdrtZX1BwsF_1HjACLkquh7_ALXk5pECQqoXSje6tM2aP28CIDGii19SlJb8cVrTezhP5vZRj5y3-s9rmU0W4AweJTBBRpVXF2MM/s1600/WhatsApp-Image-2020-03-06-at-4.38.01-PM.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="212" data-original-width="320" height="265" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgpGJXQtVE2a2JZrsbKqJQ6U3nyjzpWMZOO-qeLIBnLdrtZX1BwsF_1HjACLkquh7_ALXk5pECQqoXSje6tM2aP28CIDGii19SlJb8cVrTezhP5vZRj5y3-s9rmU0W4AweJTBBRpVXF2MM/s400/WhatsApp-Image-2020-03-06-at-4.38.01-PM.jpeg" width="400" /></a></div> <br /> Nigeria’s capital, Abuja, has recorded three cases of COVID-19.<br /> <br /> It was reliably gathered that the index case is an official of the Federal Inland Revenue Service and was one of the passengers on British Airways flight that landed on March 13, 2020.<br /> <br /> It was learnt that two other cases of COVID-19 were confirmed.<br /> <br /> A medical doctor told said that the three patients had been moved to the University of Abuja Teaching Hospital.<br /> <a name='more' id="more"></a><br /> <br /> He said, “The bad news is that three samples from the FCT suspected cases tested positive for coronavirus. We have got in touch with the University of Abuja Teaching Hospital and we are moving them immediately. We will give more details as soon as possible concerning their flights, contact tracing and other protocols.<br /> <br /> “COVID-19 is in Abuja now. One of the passengers on the British Airways flight works with the FIRS and he is among those who tested positive. His wife tested negative. We are hoping that all biometric sign in at the FIRS headquarters in Wuse Zone 5 stops with immediate effect.”<br /> <br /> A top source at the Federal Ministry of Health told The PUNCH that the case had been reported to the ministry.<br /> <br /> He, however, said the Nigerian Centre for Disease Control would have to do its own fresh round of testing before the public would be notified.<br /> <br /> The official said, “Yes, we were notified on Friday about three cases by a hospital in Abuja. We are doing our own round of testing because we cannot rely on their own result and we don’t want to cause panic among Nigerians.<br /> <br /> “The minister of health will make the official announcement once we are very sure.”<br /> <br /> Should the tests be confirmed officially by the ministry, this would imply that Nigeria has 15 official cases of COVID-19.<br /> <br /> The Director-General of the NCDC, Dr Chikwe Ihekweazu, neither responded to calls nor a text message as of the time of filing this report.

Latest-News BREAKING: Three persons test positive to coronavirus in Abuja

Nigeria’s capital, Abuja, has recorded three cases of COVID-19. It was reliably gathered that the index case is an official of the Feder...

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Coronavirus: Lagos to teach eight subjects via broadcast, social media

<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh6c79sa_e-d01ig996jpBbxqeUNIUrlDe2HF7cFoENceEee5cx1Ivjij0mhQ9gSBXbGVGYAbeWwpfinWmUVVxiCC454BunVxPo3MUsNGS1WP8rPlT32zTjz3LhlgMPGOFXAMqlNKiOpJo/s1600/Students-in-a-classroom+%25281%2529.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="213" data-original-width="320" height="266" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh6c79sa_e-d01ig996jpBbxqeUNIUrlDe2HF7cFoENceEee5cx1Ivjij0mhQ9gSBXbGVGYAbeWwpfinWmUVVxiCC454BunVxPo3MUsNGS1WP8rPlT32zTjz3LhlgMPGOFXAMqlNKiOpJo/s400/Students-in-a-classroom+%25281%2529.jpg" width="400" /></a></div> <br /> The Lagos State Government says it will be teaching students eight subjects, through the television and radio, as school activities are suspended due to the coronavirus disease.<br /> <br /> The Commissioner for Education, Mrs Folasade Adefisayo said in a statement on Saturday, that the programmes would ensure that students were engaged during the period of school closure.<br /> <br /> Adefisayo said that the programmes would have teachers who specialised in core subjects as Mathematics, English language, Physics, Chemistry, Biology, Economics, Literature in English and Financial Accounting take the various topics.<br /> <br /> She explained that the teachings would be recorded and circulated on various social media platforms for easy accessibility by students.<br /> <a name='more' id="more"></a><br /> <br /> According to her, the tutorial programmes are targeted at the students preparing for their West Africa Examinations Council, Basic Education Certificate Examination and other examinations.<br /> <br /> She advised parents against allowing their wards to patronise private tutorial centres during the period of school closure, so as to curb the spread of coronavirus.<br /> <br /> “Parents should ensure that their wards stay at home during this period and tune their radio or television sets to listen and watch Lagos sponsored teaching programmes,” the commissioner said.<br /> <br /> Adefisayo urged students to observe basic hygiene such as avoiding body contact, large gatherings, close contact with a sick person or persons, regular hand washing, use of alcohol-based hand sanitisers.<br /> <br /> She further urged the children to keep a distance of at least five feet from anyone coughing and sneezing

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China reports zero coronavirus case for third day running

<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEijIRzqiqBRxso65mQUhFkuF8Kc-AiQ4OF3yDBeT62mb2jzcDjWBUprysTU6jJoEI4S2flSW4XhbOUPCeLwMpE2mrIQFw1kbdKHI-jav_tAwHnnKpMycmMdgznAMQXRFKqYTYdz_vhM5C0/s1600/000_1PI5GJ-1-1024x683.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="213" data-original-width="320" height="266" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEijIRzqiqBRxso65mQUhFkuF8Kc-AiQ4OF3yDBeT62mb2jzcDjWBUprysTU6jJoEI4S2flSW4XhbOUPCeLwMpE2mrIQFw1kbdKHI-jav_tAwHnnKpMycmMdgznAMQXRFKqYTYdz_vhM5C0/s400/000_1PI5GJ-1-1024x683.jpg" width="400" /></a></div> <br /> China reported no new local cases of the deadly coronavirus for a third consecutive day Saturday but confirmed the highest yet increase in infections from abroad.<br /> <br /> The rate of infection has been slowing for weeks in China, while the rest of the world steps up measures to try and battle the raging pandemic.<br /> <br /> The World Health Organization on Friday praised China’s success in controlling the outbreak in the central city of Wuhan, where the virus first emerged late last year.<br /> <a name='more' id="more"></a><br /> <br /> “Wuhan provides hope for the rest of the world that even the most severe situation can be turned around,” WHO chief Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus told a virtual news conference in Geneva.<br /> <br /> Some 56 million people in Wuhan and surrounding Hubei province were locked down in late January, but authorities are progressively easing the travel curbs as cases have dwindled.<br /> <br /> However, China has stepped up controls to tackle infections brought in from other countries, with another 41 cases reported Saturday – the highest one-day tally yet.<br /> <br /> In total, 269 cases have now been brought into China from abroad. Beijing and other regions are forcing international arrivals to go into a 14-day quarantine, while the civil aviation ministry said this week it would limit passenger numbers on inbound international flights.<br /> <br /> There have been over 81,000 cases in China, but the health commission said only 6,013 were still ill with the disease.<br /> <br /> The number of deaths has also slowed dramatically, with seven new fatalities reported Saturday, all in Hubei province.<br /> <br /> As the crisis shifts from Asia to Europe, China’s death toll – now at 3,255 – was overtaken this week by Italy, where more than 4,000 people have now died.<br /> <br /> The outbreak has infected more than 250,000 people around the world with more than 11,000 worldwide fatalities.

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UNIABUJA suspends 24 students indefinitely

<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEioEXWsk7xO-O03yVySxALjnRm5y8xfq_upEtzeSOjYt34zndvwuwxzWh9Iffi-3-y-foj8bU547k9vNutwvpZZmFwpAHzcJHKZxqlZ1mwYikEKVZWY752M3EIlGPeeYBWHANCVyRkZBK0/s1600/FilePhoto-31.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="613" data-original-width="1024" height="238" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEioEXWsk7xO-O03yVySxALjnRm5y8xfq_upEtzeSOjYt34zndvwuwxzWh9Iffi-3-y-foj8bU547k9vNutwvpZZmFwpAHzcJHKZxqlZ1mwYikEKVZWY752M3EIlGPeeYBWHANCVyRkZBK0/s400/FilePhoto-31.jpg" width="400" /></a></div> <br /> <br /> The Vice-Chancellor of University of Abuja, Prof. Abdul-Rasheed Na’Allah has approved the suspension 24 students indefinitely for their alleged involvement in cultism.<br /> <br /> According to a statement by the Head of Information and University Relations, Dr. Habib Yakoob, on Friday, the VC directed that the students be made to appear before the Students Disciplinary Committee for further investigation.<br /> <br /> The statement reads: “It will be recalled that the Police on 15th March 2020 arrested 46 students suspected to be cult members, following a tip-off from the University Safety Office in close collaboration with the community vigilantes, while they were planning to conduct initiation in Gwako Village along Gwagwalada Road, Abuja.<br /> <br /> “This is the first batch of arrested students to be suspended by the university management. Out of the 24 suspended students, who cut across various faculties including Science, Arts, Social Science, 7 were in 400 level; 10 in 300 level; 6 in 200 level and one spill-over student.<br /> <a name='more' id="more"></a><br /> <br /> “The affected students have been directed by the university authority to handover all property in their possession and vacate the hostels immediately.<br /> <br /> “The Vice-Chancellor, who relied on the University Law clearly spelt out to the students during their orientation exercise, and for which a matriculation oath was taken, has also directed that the students be made to appear before the Students’ Disciplinary Committee for further investigation.<br /> <br /> “The University Management wishes to reiterate that it has zero tolerance for cultism and other related misconduct in the University, and is determined to, after due diligence, punish any staff or student who violates the university rules and regulations.<br /> <br /> “The university community is urged to be vigilant at all times and accordingly report any suspicious activities within the university that could undermine the safety and peaceful co-existence of its members.<br /> <br /> “The University administration assures students and staff of the university of its maximum protection, and that measures have been put in place to arrest any other suspect to serve as a deterrent to others.”

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My son and I don’t need anybody- Yvonne Jegede

<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjXpwd1JyIi3VHBeXUZ3IdUxku5eNiPdACxpJb5zmE32D5gA4YmPVeIN_92izMKfuj9OuKDTcONW5W_mVot5_VTx4KDqtKaIPTlG__ZbQsOgcJtHV0X5tEFrOMu59TiKP5i6ZlgnYlNLSU/s1600/Fans-say-actress-Yvonne-Jegede-will-go-to-hell-for-revealing-cleavage-547x410.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="410" data-original-width="547" height="298" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjXpwd1JyIi3VHBeXUZ3IdUxku5eNiPdACxpJb5zmE32D5gA4YmPVeIN_92izMKfuj9OuKDTcONW5W_mVot5_VTx4KDqtKaIPTlG__ZbQsOgcJtHV0X5tEFrOMu59TiKP5i6ZlgnYlNLSU/s400/Fans-say-actress-Yvonne-Jegede-will-go-to-hell-for-revealing-cleavage-547x410.jpg" width="400" /></a></div> <br /> Nollywood damsel, Yvonne Jegede has stated that herself and her son need nobody. Yvonne whose marriage to Abounce crashed in 2019  noted that time will heal all wounds.<br /> <br /> Jegede made this known in a chat with Punch.<br /> <br /> “I have kept my body, soul and spirit together and I have always being a positive person and constantly remain one. I don’t know where the energy, contentment or rest of mind comes from for me, I just know that it is factory-fitted. I don’t have to struggle for anything, no matter what problem I am having. I just breeze through.<br /> <br /> “There is one thing about life that I’m very sure about and it’s that time will heal all wounds— be it heartbreak, physical wounds or whatever one is passing through; it’s just a matter of time. My son is fine and I’m very excited about him. We are perfect together. It is a case of two peas in a pod and we don’t need anybody.”<br /> <a name='more' id="more"></a><br /> <br /> On how 2020 has been for her so far, the versatile actress said: “It has been a great year for me thus far. As a matter of fact, the first three months of this year have been way better than my entire life. I think that when one is patient, things would fall into place.I didn’t do anything differently; it was just grace of God that found me. I’m not in anybody’s space and I’m not threatened by anybody in the movie industry. However, I plan to really be in people’s faces this year. My resolution this year was to ‘ball’ and have fun but I think what I wanted is different from what God is throwing at me. I just wanted to have fun in 2020 but it’s been loss of work for me”.

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Nollywood damsel, Yvonne Jegede has stated that herself and her son need nobody. Yvonne whose marriage to Abounce crashed in 2019  noted t...

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FCT withdraws sack threats to striking doctors, returns to negotiation table

<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgS2d3ABYpapu3CI6FFCA9lXT64lfllbQbJdCOuPJ8BFVYU_ipZAP4Xo487KjZWuE1dyuI1JJmxh2pVrhipcN7KsIPsztletaQLvz5EZDZHNJfS_muU-mgEbGbW1dqoWejIXdhIj0hClaw/s1600/Edo-doctors.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="484" data-original-width="698" height="276" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgS2d3ABYpapu3CI6FFCA9lXT64lfllbQbJdCOuPJ8BFVYU_ipZAP4Xo487KjZWuE1dyuI1JJmxh2pVrhipcN7KsIPsztletaQLvz5EZDZHNJfS_muU-mgEbGbW1dqoWejIXdhIj0hClaw/s400/Edo-doctors.png" width="400" /></a></div> <br /> The Federal Capital Territory Administration has withdrawn its threat to sack striking medical doctors within the FCT if they failed to go back to work within 48 hours.<br /> <br /> The withdrawal of the sack threat followed the intervention of the House of Representatives Committee on Health Services and the Leadership of the Nigeria Medical Association.<br /> <br /> According to a statement by Special Adviser to the Speaker, Lanre Lasisi, on Friday disclosed that the FCTA decided to withdraw the earlier circular after a meeting between the House Health Services Committee led by its chairman, Rep. Tanko Sununu, officials of the Federal Capital Territory Administration (FCTA) and the leadership of the Nigerian Medical Association (NMA).<br /> <br /> Lasisi said the meeting resolved that a Committee of five persons be set up comprising a member of NMA, two members of the NARD FCT Chapter and two FCTA staff, which will look into the issues relating to the payment of the doctors and report back.<br /> <a name='more' id="more"></a><br /> <br /> “It was also resolved at the meeting that FCT Administration should source for funds from alternative sources to pay flat rate to 36 doctors that have not been paid between six to seven months pending when the issue is resolved.<br /> <br /> “The Nigerian Medical Association, led by its President Dr.Francis Faduyile informed the House Committee that the national body had directed all his members on strike to resume duties at their posts while the association continues with the negotiations with the FCTA on behalf of the striking doctors.<br /> <br /> “He expressed his gratitude to the National Assembly especially the House of Representatives for the proactive measures taken to intervene in the matter and in ensuring the national emergency as regards to the cover-19 is well contained within the nation,” the statement said.

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Coronavirus: EPL to cough out N332billion for unfinished season

<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh1ZmsJIAqwBYjJ0YBZGA0di-Ikiym1wCx9xwN8f5TrmHnjmfpHLZYhHWSQEbtwuzwz-4QNVNjWrjr57Vv_dlPleR2zHmXDxsi1ULn8cEsQl5Xuyzw56On6Th3p9Q8t4JJVfaB4Mg69yto/s1600/epll-1-750x400.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="400" data-original-width="750" height="212" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh1ZmsJIAqwBYjJ0YBZGA0di-Ikiym1wCx9xwN8f5TrmHnjmfpHLZYhHWSQEbtwuzwz-4QNVNjWrjr57Vv_dlPleR2zHmXDxsi1ULn8cEsQl5Xuyzw56On6Th3p9Q8t4JJVfaB4Mg69yto/s400/epll-1-750x400.jpg" width="400" /></a></div> <br /> The English Premier League (EPL) will have to cough out £762m (N332billion) should the rampaging coronavirus stop the season from running its full course.<br /> <br /> The said sum is projected cost of lost broadcast revenue.<br /> <br /> According to The Athletic, the total outlay would be £762million if the coronavirus pandemic resulted in the cancellation of the 2019-20 campaign.<br /> <br /> This gargantuan sum would be as a result of a breach in contract terms agreed for domestic and international rights.<br /> <br /> The outlet report that Sky Sports are taking a mammoth hit daily at present, as they struggle predominately to bring in advertising during the enforced hiatus of the season. At the earliest, the resumption of the league will begin on April 30.<br /> <a name='more' id="more"></a><br /> <br /> This information was relayed to the 20 Premier League clubs during a meeting in London on Thursday morning.<br /> <br /> The top-flight sides have just received their full allocation of money for the season and some are now keen to play games behind closed doors to ensure that fixtures are fulfilled – and thus, they can keep their broadcast revenue.<br /> <br /> A lot of teams are banking on the broadcast revenue to help them with their own outgoings – which are mainly players’ wages.<br /> <br /> There are fears that staff at various clubs could be made redundant. Manchester United, Crystal Palace and Brighton have pledged that will not be the case at their clubs.<br /> <br /> Wolves will also compensate staff but Manchester City workers remain in the dark. Match day staff – including those who work in stewarding, hospitality and in catering – stand to miss out on crucial income over the coming weeks and months if clubs do not intervene.<br /> <br /> Uneasy it is said lies the head that wears the crown.  The English Premier league (EPL) is no doubt one of the most popular and most followed league in the world, generating millions of pounds every season and thus sending players, coaches, advertisers, broadcasters, analysts and other stakeholders with smiles to the banks.<br /> <br /> And same goes for the La liga, Bundesliga, Serie A, and Ligue 1. However, the sudden invasion of the world by dreaded coronavirus has forced the suspension of all leagues even while hoping that the pandemic will take its leave as fast as it came so that activities can continue.<br /> <br /> The EPL after a number of players and coaches tested positive initially suspended the league to April 4 and recently shifted possible resumption date to end of April 2020.<br /> <br /> Table toppers Liverpool currently with 82 points in 29 matches can hardly wait to lift the trophy for the season but that ambition will have to wait.<br /> <br /> With eight matches left no winner will emerge until the entire matches are played.

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Italian man who first brought coronavirus to Nigeria discharged

<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi32JNe50d-sJvjHud0M2IZmkI-abHOeWOW8DYc9tcqHKvhVyeoC_xtFQqcszVXlZqNi1_C9F0Yu2HE-6f4czAjsISoTxzEtxTEI5fq7_ShQOyy1oNs3AM-l53bXZeNfDEc9gDvl9SMnEOx/s1600/italo+corona.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="375" data-original-width="750" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi32JNe50d-sJvjHud0M2IZmkI-abHOeWOW8DYc9tcqHKvhVyeoC_xtFQqcszVXlZqNi1_C9F0Yu2HE-6f4czAjsISoTxzEtxTEI5fq7_ShQOyy1oNs3AM-l53bXZeNfDEc9gDvl9SMnEOx/s640/italo+corona.jpg" width="640" /></a></div> <b><br /></b> <b>The Italian Coronavirus index case in Nigeria has been discharged after testing negative.</b><br /> <br /> The patient, who tested positive for the disease on February 28, left the hospital on Friday night.<br /> <br /> <a name='more' id="more"></a><br /> <br /> The man flew into Nigeria from Milan, Italy, on February 24. He had reportedly lodged at a hotel close to Murtala Muhammed International Airport in Ikeja, Lagos, before moving to Lafarge Africa Plc, Ewekoro in Ogun state, the next day.<br /> <br /> He fell sick on the third day of his stay in the country and tested positive for the disease two days after.<br /> <br /> Subsequently, 39 people who had contact with him were quarantined but one of them tested positive for the disease while others were discharged but the Nigerian who contracted the disease later recovered.<br /> <br /> Commenting on the release of the man from the hospital, Babajide Sanwo-Olu, the governor, said the patient donated one unit of white blood (plasma) that would be used in treating other patients.<br /> <br /> The patient with Akin Abayomi, Lagos commissioner for health, and health workers at the hospital shortly before he was discharged.<br /> <br /> “The Italian gentleman who was the index case is now negative and is being discharged. Through a combined effort of Lagos State, Ogun State and Federal Health Authorities, we were able to limit the transmission of the virus to a single contact,” he said in a statement.<br /> <br /> “This involved aggressive contact tracing and containment strategies. However we now have several new imported cases and we hope we can apply the same contact tracing strategy along with social distancing to slow down the outbreak which may be brewing from these new cases.<br /> <br /> “The index patient consented to donating one unit of white blood ( plasma) before he was discharged today. The blood plasma is rich in antibody proteins that target #COVID19 virus.<br /> <br /> “The white blood plasma is frozen in our Bio-bank and will be useful in handling new cases. The blood plasma will be beneficial for the treatment of new patients in the absence of a defined therapeutic drug for #COVID19 yet.<br /> <br /> “The index patient appreciated the exceptional care and support given to him by staff of the mainland infectious Disease Hospital, Yaba, all members of the EOC/and the Lagos State government.<br /> <br /> “The EOC team was extremely happy to bid the patient farewell. Once again, we like to convey the enthusiasm of our team to do the very best possible in handling incidents of Coronavirus.”<br /> <br /> <b><a href="http://www.nigerianeye.com/2020/03/coronavirus-lagos-state-searching-for.html">Nigeria currently has 12 confirmed cases of the disease, and is currently on the look out for over 3,000 people who had contact with the confirmed cases.</a></b>

Latest-News Italian man who first brought coronavirus to Nigeria discharged

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Naira devalued as CBN seeks exchange uniformity

<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgoaCKDP-oECE52b580kLMyUgix8ob8cKvaKkGB55r9-VqREOPdBOPDWTly4665eZ_36DKoRngW91oS90p1sPWhRvPrpN84a_HrQexRJZ33wQxyBImpRSKf_WkQpsV1OnISfxzGAWYGFnFJ/s1600/naira_notes.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="340" data-original-width="693" height="195" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgoaCKDP-oECE52b580kLMyUgix8ob8cKvaKkGB55r9-VqREOPdBOPDWTly4665eZ_36DKoRngW91oS90p1sPWhRvPrpN84a_HrQexRJZ33wQxyBImpRSKf_WkQpsV1OnISfxzGAWYGFnFJ/s400/naira_notes.jpg" width="400" /></a></div> <br /> The Central Bank of Nigeria may have devalued the Naira by as much as 15 per cent as it seeks a single exchange rate instead of the often criticised multiple rates.<br /> <br /> An indication that the Naira has been devalued came when news filtered that the CBN sold the U.S. dollar to Jaiz Bank at 360 naira on the official currency market, instead of N306 where it was previously pegged. The CBN also sold dollar at the Importer and Exporter window at N380.<br /> <br /> <a name='more' id="more"></a><br /> <br /> Much later on Friday, CBN published N360 as the official exchange rate on its website.<br /> <br /> The crash in the oil price is forcing the apex bank fuse all the three windows into one, analysts said. Despite diversification plans, earnings from sales of crude account for 90% of Nigeria’s foreign-exchange and more than half of government income.<br /> <br /> As of 19 March the FX reserve was down to $35.9 billion as oil sells for $27.5 per barrel.<br /> <br /> The CBN now wants to merge the official rate, the rate for importers and exporters and rate for foreign-exchange bureaus, among others, according to people familiar with the plan.<br /> <br /> The multiple rates which had been criticised by the International Monetary Fund, has kept the official rate at about 307 naira per dollar. It uses this to supply cheap foreign exchange to government departments and select companies, including fuel importers. It created an importers and exporters window in 2017, in which the Naira was allowed to weaken after an economic contraction in 2016.<br /> <br /> Last week JP Morgan said it expected Nigeria to devalue its currency by the end of June after a sharp oil price tumble ramped up the pressure on foreign reserves.

Latest-News Naira devalued as CBN seeks exchange uniformity

The Central Bank of Nigeria may have devalued the Naira by as much as 15 per cent as it seeks a single exchange rate instead of the often ...

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Four members of a family all die of coronavirus

<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhBC5Cz-JvUdoe05mGT0EKz6Sc3AQwMZJeHWLFgfT7ONQkwv16iRZqa0QcJ_NXbe8tk_kLEHgzSqaRcGMW55pANz0JNaVM8_IuPMvyiNd98VU_FhwvofeoTKzPhQPW4Cxxw58zRJPu9c918/s1600/corona.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="360" data-original-width="630" height="227" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhBC5Cz-JvUdoe05mGT0EKz6Sc3AQwMZJeHWLFgfT7ONQkwv16iRZqa0QcJ_NXbe8tk_kLEHgzSqaRcGMW55pANz0JNaVM8_IuPMvyiNd98VU_FhwvofeoTKzPhQPW4Cxxw58zRJPu9c918/s400/corona.jpg" width="400" /></a></div> <br /> <br /> A family in New Jersey, USA, has lost four members to the coronavirus in a matter of days.<br /> <br /> Vincent Fusco died Thursday morning, according to his sister Elizabeth Fusco and Roseann Paradiso Fodera, an attorney and relative after getting infected during a dinner in New Jersey.<br /> <br /> He was in his 50s.<br /> <br /> His 73 year old mother Grace Fusco, preceded him on Wednesday night, only hours after her oldest son, Carmine Fusco, died in Pennsylvania.<br /> <br /> <br /> <a name='more' id="more"></a>Rita Fusco-Jackson, 55, the sister of Carmine and Vincent, died penultimate Friday.<br /> <br /> In an interview with CNN, the youngest sibling of the Fusco family, Elizabeth, described the heartbreaking moments leading up to the deaths of her family members.<br /> <br /> “It is absolutely surreal,” Elizabeth the youngest sibling of the Fusco family told CNN.<br /> <br /> “I woke up Tuesday morning [March 10] the baby of 11. My mom called me and said ‘Lizzie I don’t feel good, Rita don’t feel good, Tony don’t feel good. Can you come help us?’ I said absolutely ma.<br /> <br /> “It’s like the second we start to grieve about one the phone rings and there’s another person gone, taken from us forever.<br /> <br /> “By the time it settled in our brains about my first sister we got the next call [and] I listened to those doctors and those machines code my mother on the phone when she passed last night [Wednesday].<br /> <br /> “I’ll never get over that but I never wanna hear that again. That’s why we are just begging for help. We never wanna get that call anytime soon ever again because of this. We’re lost.”

Latest-News Four members of a family all die of coronavirus

A family in New Jersey, USA, has lost four members to the coronavirus in a matter of days. Vincent Fusco died Thursday morning, accordi...

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Why we must stay alert over coronavirus –Tinubu

<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgvHZUN1buix5afPGU03mMDyeEBzp7p8smdX3WLj0LC8vi9aXJ3GRId77EkNqoktG_BfLNrL4NZvBXZuNq0LDxzOTG4YbsUq8FIui0YPqKk4LKxdr7pgzrAjcLy4OUh8x70uXbZ1fjvmqw7/s1600/tinubu.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="180" data-original-width="280" height="257" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgvHZUN1buix5afPGU03mMDyeEBzp7p8smdX3WLj0LC8vi9aXJ3GRId77EkNqoktG_BfLNrL4NZvBXZuNq0LDxzOTG4YbsUq8FIui0YPqKk4LKxdr7pgzrAjcLy4OUh8x70uXbZ1fjvmqw7/s400/tinubu.jpg" width="400" /></a></div> <br /> National Leader of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu, said yesterday that Nigeria should not be lulled into false security by the current low level of coronavirus spread in the country.<br /> <a name='more' id="more"></a><br /> <br /> He said while we may not know now why it has not touched us in the way it has affected other nations, strenuous efforts should be made to help educate and lift public awareness on the virus and other issues.<br /> <br /> Tinubu, in a letter of appreciation to Vice President Yemi Osinbajo, Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu of Lagos State, and Works and Housing Minister Babatunde Raji Fashola for the hard work they put into organising the postponed colloquium to mark his birthday, said it is “even more urgent that we educate and increase awareness of this possible public health menace.”<br /> <br /> He also hailed other members of the committee, Interior Minister Rauf Aregbesola, Mr.Dele Alake and Mr.Yemi Cardoso, saying “over the years, your exertions in this regard have been outstanding.<br /> <br /> “Your efforts have deeply enriched the social, political and economic discourse of our nation.<br /> <br /> “I am deeply honoured that such a group of talented individuals have devoted so much time and energy toward making the colloquium the excellent annual event it has become.<br /> <br /> “The spirit of the colloquium has always been one of public service and social progress.<br /> <br /> “To keep faith with that spirit, we must seriously consider the need to postpone the colloquium.<br /> <br /> “Due to the troubling promulgation of the Coronavirus, the world has entered an unprecedented phase.<br /> <br /> “Many nations have instituted travel restrictions and have curtailed various forms of economic activity and social events.<br /> <br /> “We thank God that Nigeria has only had three cases thus far.<br /> <br /> “However, we note the number of cases is slowly increasing across Africa.<br /> <br /> “This is of great concern. That the virus has not yet come in great numbers should not lull us into false security.<br /> <br /> “We know not why it has not touched us in the way it has affected other nations. Thus, we cannot be certain that it will not eventually visit Nigeria in significant numbers.<br /> <br /> “I believe we have a unique social responsibility to help educate and lift public awareness on all issues, including the coronavirus.<br /> <br /> “We must lead by example.<br /> <br /> “The colloquium is something I look forward to every year.<br /> <br /> “This year, I was greatly looking forward to the discussion on innovation in basic education.<br /> <br /> “However, I think it even more urgent that we educate and increase awareness of this possible public health menace.<br /> <br /> “We do not want a situation where we have gathered for a good cause only to later find that the event might have been a conduit to disseminate not only knowledge but also the virus as well.<br /> <br /> “We should foreclose this possibility even though it is slight.<br /> <br /> “I value the work you have done in preparing the colloquium, for the chosen topic is essential to our national discussion.<br /> <br /> “Your work needs to enter the public record and it will do so.<br /> <br /> “However, I ask you to take a step back to review and reconsider whether now is the best time to hold the colloquium because of the overriding public health concerns and the need to persuade people that they must begin taking precautionary steps against the virus such as foregoing large public gatherings.<br /> <br /> “My fervent prayer is that our nation escapes the brunt of the coronavirus.<br /> <br /> “However, we must prepare for the opposite. And we must assume leadership on this matter by focusing public attention on practical measures to blunt a possible spread of the virus.<br /> <br /> “If you decide that caution is required, then the colloquium can be postponed but not cancelled.<br /> <br /> “It is important that your exceptional work be presented to the Nigerian people once we believe public health concerns have been addressed.”

Latest-News Why we must stay alert over coronavirus –Tinubu

National Leader of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu, said yesterday that Nigeria should not be lulled into f...

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Foreign airlines to suffer as Nigeria shuts all airports over coronavirus

<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEibg2JekgOkLPujXJivFZruYTEfecjA0_C2BQvD-PoAaU4xbEyv3kpDO8jL_NwXnK0yE2ouVzASZlASuLMRUjvuWxExa3bibjKxME5Cg9l99LXqZsGaKi3hXKwC0WkI6IViGU6whkkY_X_h/s1600/plane+in+air.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="404" data-original-width="720" height="223" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEibg2JekgOkLPujXJivFZruYTEfecjA0_C2BQvD-PoAaU4xbEyv3kpDO8jL_NwXnK0yE2ouVzASZlASuLMRUjvuWxExa3bibjKxME5Cg9l99LXqZsGaKi3hXKwC0WkI6IViGU6whkkY_X_h/s400/plane+in+air.jpg" width="400" /></a></div> <br /> At least about The 33 foreign airlines operating flights into Nigeria may suffer a major blow as the Federal Government says it will in a few days shut the international wings of the Murtala Muhammed International Airport, Lagos, and the Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport in Abuja.<br /> <br /> The Director-General of the Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority, Capt Musa Nuhu, in a statement on Thursday announced the closure of the three other international airports in the country, namely Mallam Aminu Kano International Airport, Kano, Akanu Ibiam International Airport, Enugu, and the Port Harcourt International Airport, Omagwa, thereby restricting international flights to only Lagos and Abuja airports.<br /> <a name='more' id="more"></a><br /> <br /> The statement noted that the closure would be till further notice effective 12am today. It noted that this was part of precautionary measures taken by the government to curb the spread of coronavirus.<br /> <br /> On Friday, the Minister of Aviation, Hadi Sirika, told journalists in Abuja, the Federal Capital Territory, that the Presidential Task Force on COVID-19, headed by the Secretary to the Government of the Federation, Mr Boss Mustapha, would make the announcement at the appropriate time.<br /> <br /> But speaking on Friday, the minister said the Federal Government planned to close every gap that could further spread the COVID-19 in the country.<br /> <br /> He said, “Yes, we are going to shut all international airports. Domestic operations will not be disrupted. The shutdown will be in a few days, just to allow the necessary ‘Notice to Airmen’ to be issued accordingly.”<br /> <br /> Consequently, the 33 foreign airlines operating flights into Nigeria, according to the statistics from the Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority, might take a financial hit following the closure.<br /> <br /> Some of the foreign airlines expected to be affected are British Airways, Lufthansa, Emirates, Ethiopian Airlines, Qatar Airways, Etihad Airways, AirFrance, KLM, Delta Airlines, Virgin Atlantic, South African Airways, Kenyan Airways, Rwandair, Turkish Airlines, Egypt Air, Royal Air Maroc and Africa World Airlines.<br /> <br /> Data from the NCAA showed that from January to December 2019, the foreign airlines recorded 15, 474 flights into the five international airports in Nigeria with an average of 298 flights weekly.<br /> <br /> This is coming barely 24 hours after the International Air Transport Association said the disruption to air travel due to the continued spread of coronavirus would cost Nigeria’s aviation industry over N160.58bn (using Bureau de Change rate of N370 to $1) ($434m) in revenue and 22,200 jobs.<br /> <br /> IATA, which is an umbrella body for 290 airlines globally, added that Nigeria would also lose approximately 2.2 million passengers, adding that the spread of the virus would negatively impact the aviation industry worldwide.<br /> <br /> Efforts to reach the President, Association of Foreign Airlines and Representatives in Nigeia, Mr Kingsley Nwokoma, on Friday night, were not successful.<br /> <br /> But earlier in the week, he said the industry had been passing through a very difficult time since the outbreak of the disease.<br /> <br /> Nwokoma said there was slow traffic, cancellation of flights, and reduction in cargo traffic.<br /> <br /> “When it started, it was like a joke and we all thought it will soon pass away; cargo and aviation generally have taken a big hit,” he said.<br /> <br /> He said cargo warehouses had become empty as most shipment were from China.<br /> <br /> The NCAA DG had said in his statement that the directive was as a result of the Federal Government’s travel ban on 13 countries, which rose to 15 countries following the addition of Sweden and Austria on Friday.<br /> <br /> The government by the directive restricted entry for travellers from the countries, but noted that Nigerians, diplomats and foreigners resident in the country travelling from the listed countries would be subjected to supervised self-isolation for 14 days after arrival.<br /> <br /> The disease, which was first discovered in Wuhan, China on December 31, 2019, was first detected in Nigeria on February 27 when a 44-year-old Italian tested positive for the virus.<br /> <br /> As of Thursday night, the number of cases in Nigeria had risen to 12, with 1,300 persons who had direct and indirect contacts with the infected persons placed under watch. So far, only one patient, the second patient to test positive for the virus, had been discharged, while the Italian is said to be responding to treatment.<br /> <br /> As of Friday night, the disease had spread to 184 out of 195 countries and territories around the world, with 271,598 cases recorded while 11,299 deaths had been recovered. However, 90,605 persons had so far recovered.

Latest-News Foreign airlines to suffer as Nigeria shuts all airports over coronavirus

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FCTA threatens to sack striking doctors, issues 24-hour ultimatum

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Coronavirus: Olukoya’s MFM suspends deliverance services, house fellowship, declares 30 days fasting

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Dino Melaye reveals cure for coronavirus

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Madrid striker risks jail term for refusing self-isolation

<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgw5T9N7esxAUbHzupAB5e9OXCcrCK1bAI7XIDAUbzPTnyCFSVKAMS5KuUL_ym5BIHZX1wVV-rwoMtOYL4sNu7Y5ICuJ7L6DO7acz5WCspvhQWQTPH45hHd9CcOR4SuzDALvvSDpuu8tfc/s1600/luka-jovic-750x430.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="430" data-original-width="750" height="228" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgw5T9N7esxAUbHzupAB5e9OXCcrCK1bAI7XIDAUbzPTnyCFSVKAMS5KuUL_ym5BIHZX1wVV-rwoMtOYL4sNu7Y5ICuJ7L6DO7acz5WCspvhQWQTPH45hHd9CcOR4SuzDALvvSDpuu8tfc/s400/luka-jovic-750x430.jpg" width="400" /></a></div> <br /> Real Madrid striker, Luka Jovic, has been warned he could go to jail, after the 22-year-old ignored self-isolation procedures amid the coronavirus pandemic.<br /> <br /> Jovic was allowed to travel home to his native Serbia, after Spanish football was shutdown.<br /> <br /> He was ordered to self-isolate as soon as he arrives.<br /> <br /> Serbia as a country, has ordered anyone returning from a virus-hit country to self-isolate for up to 28 days.<br /> <a name='more' id="more"></a><br /> <br /> However, Jovic was spotted in the streets of Belgrade not long after he arrived from Madrid and also made an appearance at his girlfriend’s birthday party.<br /> <br /> His actions have left Serbian authorities unimpressed.<br /> <br /> “The fact that they are known sportsmen, and that they are rich, will not stop them from being punished,” Serbian Interior Minister, Nebojsa Stefanovic, said according to AP.<br /> <br /> “Either they will respect the law, or they’ll go to jail.”

Latest-News Madrid striker risks jail term for refusing self-isolation

Real Madrid striker, Luka Jovic, has been warned he could go to jail, after the 22-year-old ignored self-isolation procedures amid the cor...

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Another popular actor tests positive for coronavirus

<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhGgoA6_QDugVpwG9SEe_1d501s5eP-OZPHQFuDoReu76rbLAMVlN084lGIC84RnqabhV6Q7VzO4Ta7pCjJ1lxo20C8b0OiO8xdeOkTY3DfEjtx4JTB-buEWWYg17AP2JtKMCFgWqjK2ok/s1600/Actor.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="425" data-original-width="495" height="342" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhGgoA6_QDugVpwG9SEe_1d501s5eP-OZPHQFuDoReu76rbLAMVlN084lGIC84RnqabhV6Q7VzO4Ta7pCjJ1lxo20C8b0OiO8xdeOkTY3DfEjtx4JTB-buEWWYg17AP2JtKMCFgWqjK2ok/s400/Actor.jpg" width="400" /></a></div> <br /> Actor Daniel Dae Kim, best known for the television series “Hawaii 5-0,” said on Thursday he had tested positive for the coronavirus, the latest among US celebrities to be diagnosed with the bug.<br /> <br /> Kim announced the news in an Instagram posting and video, from his home in Hawaii.<br /> <br /> “Yesterday I was diagnosed with COVID-19, the disease caused by the coronavirus. Looks like I’ll be ok, but I wanted to share my journey with you in the hopes that you find it informative or helpful. Hope you all stay safe, calm, and above all,” Kim wrote.<br /> <br /> Kim, 51, said he had recently been in New York shooting a television series and returned to Hawaii when production was shut down. He said he began to feel ill, quarantined himself, and was later advised to get tested in Honolulu. He said he was already feeling better.<br /> <a name='more' id="more"></a><br /> <br /> “Thankfully for me it wasn’t life or death,” he said, urging people to follow guidelines to self isolate and wash their hands.<br /> <br /> Kim played police lieutenant Chin Ho Kelly in “Hawaii 5-O” and is also known for his role as Korean fisherman-turned-hitman Jin-Soo Kwon on the television series “Lost.”<br /> <br /> Kim is one of a handful of celebrities who have announced they have the disease, including actors Tom Hanks and Idris Elba, “Game of Thrones” actor Kristofer Hivju, basketball star Kevin Durant and former James Bond actress Olga Kurylenko.

Latest-News Another popular actor tests positive for coronavirus

Actor Daniel Dae Kim, best known for the television series “Hawaii 5-0,” said on Thursday he had tested positive for the coronavirus, the ...

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Coronavirus: ‘If you’re an African, take care, death is close’ – Seun Kuti warns

<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhLL1COHZVvNZ07qLAAr3JrOc28TzBr3CLrrH7cSsi0KgCAwmy0rKebgyxCpqrmO_Ih49-vMR3GvWAI6SOOc8QIubr78tMi85HKjeolzHc8w-gGH90RHHFSM2nTf2b7V4nKzbO1r8_2p4k/s1600/seun-kuti-imf-video+%25281%2529.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="626" data-original-width="940" height="266" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhLL1COHZVvNZ07qLAAr3JrOc28TzBr3CLrrH7cSsi0KgCAwmy0rKebgyxCpqrmO_Ih49-vMR3GvWAI6SOOc8QIubr78tMi85HKjeolzHc8w-gGH90RHHFSM2nTf2b7V4nKzbO1r8_2p4k/s400/seun-kuti-imf-video+%25281%2529.jpg" width="400" /></a></div> <br /> Seun Kuti, the youngest son of legendary Afrobeat godfather Fela Kuti has expressed his concern over the recent outbreak of the deadly virus, Corona, also known COVID-19.<br /> <br /> The quite bold and outspoken music star took to his Instagram page to state what Nigerians should learn from the epidemic.<br /> <br /> Seun also clearly stated that hunger would kill more African people than the wild spread of Coronavirus.<br /> <a name='more' id="more"></a><br /> <br /> He shared the caption, ” All the hundreds of billions of dollars spent on DEFENCE, has actually been spent on destroying the other, not protecting humanity or the planet. It is obvious that the world is unprepared to defend itself from a real enemy!! It is clear that all you can do as DEFENCE is to blow up black and brown people and destroy the environment. #getthesax. By the way hunger is killing thousands everyday, where is the hysteria on that!! Listen if u are African take care but also you know death is close by, no be corona kill them for Amuwo Odofin ooo!!”

Latest-News Coronavirus: ‘If you’re an African, take care, death is close’ – Seun Kuti warns

Seun Kuti, the youngest son of legendary Afrobeat godfather Fela Kuti has expressed his concern over the recent outbreak of the deadly vir...

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INEC suspends four senatorial bye-elections

<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiwpdYtYtuWd2wPLejKPXxXu54FViWLDmD9yus06w9OZngPM5Cx6DPx0bp6tyv1K7jQdzuRrJHy8QlzB94s4QScRF11KA9-7pa65tBp5MIMqx7NNIyDPzE72nwWakhhfCeKrrER7Iw86i8/s1600/INEC-750x430.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="430" data-original-width="750" height="228" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiwpdYtYtuWd2wPLejKPXxXu54FViWLDmD9yus06w9OZngPM5Cx6DPx0bp6tyv1K7jQdzuRrJHy8QlzB94s4QScRF11KA9-7pa65tBp5MIMqx7NNIyDPzE72nwWakhhfCeKrrER7Iw86i8/s400/INEC-750x430.jpg" width="400" /></a></div> <br /> The Independent National Electoral Commission, INEC on Thursday said it had suspended bye-elections for the Bayelsa Central Senatorial District; Bayelsa West Senatorial District; Imo North Senatorial District and Plateau South Senatorial District.<br /> <br /> The National Commissioner and Chairman, Information and Voter Education Committee, INEC, Mr Festus Okoye, in a statement also said the commission postponed the  four senatorial bye-elections  given the health emergency occasioned by coronavirus pandemic and the preventive measures put in place by the government.<br /> <br /> He added that the postponement would remain until the situation normalised.<br /> <a name='more' id="more"></a><br /> <br /> He, however, explained that the governorship elections in Edo and Ondo states scheduled for September and October 2020 respectively, were not affected by the postponement.

Latest-News INEC suspends four senatorial bye-elections

The Independent National Electoral Commission, INEC on Thursday said it had suspended bye-elections for the Bayelsa Central Senatorial Dis...

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NIMC shuts down enrolment centres in Lagos, Katsina, 3 others

<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi-XKiwnONRbpD4zMLm6Pq6-3fH8v8rf9FDGgBtYClbZRmV7im-HrHElU0oybw1bWletGi71fqSh5UvzpLUebLMli5yB2rPwDGU9N_ARcohbuqBBa2ApIaV3ZdtaY2hFENOL8h0sA1mHRI/s1600/NIMC-Card.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="361" data-original-width="680" height="211" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi-XKiwnONRbpD4zMLm6Pq6-3fH8v8rf9FDGgBtYClbZRmV7im-HrHElU0oybw1bWletGi71fqSh5UvzpLUebLMli5yB2rPwDGU9N_ARcohbuqBBa2ApIaV3ZdtaY2hFENOL8h0sA1mHRI/s400/NIMC-Card.png" width="400" /></a></div> <br /> The National Identity Management Commission has ordered the immediate shutdown of enrolment centres in Lagos, Katsina, Ekiti, Ogun and Anambra states as part of preventive measures against the spread of Coronavirus.<br /> <br /> The announcement was contained in a statement issued by the head of Corporate Communications of NIMC Mr Kayode Adegoke on Friday in Abuja.<br /> <br /> As part of the measures to stop the spread of the Coronavirus pandemic, the NIMC  has ordered the immediate shutdown of all its enrollment centers in Lagos, Katsina, Ekiti, Ogun and Anambra states,” he said.<br /> <br /> Adegoke said, the decision became necessary to protect  staff and applicants from  the Coronavirus.<br /> <a name='more' id="more"></a><br /> <br /> ”The move becomes necessary to prevent our Staff and applicants from getting more vulnerable to the pandemic.<br /> <br /> Consequently, all enrolment activities, card collection and other identity related activities are hereby suspended in the aforementioned states till further notice.<br /> <br /> The closure is not intended to create panic but to arrest the spread of the disease, which has become a global threat,” he said.<br /> <br /> He said, the commission however regretted any inconvenience caused as a result of their decision.<br /> <br /> We hereby regret any inconvenience the closure may  cause as our paramount concern as  responsible and responsive commission is the safety of all, he said.

Latest-News NIMC shuts down enrolment centres in Lagos, Katsina, 3 others

The National Identity Management Commission has ordered the immediate shutdown of enrolment centres in Lagos, Katsina, Ekiti, Ogun and Ana...

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AGN stakeholders to meet over Elisha Abbo’s selection as patron

<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiBgCKWS9DltWAKOb_bZM2_5puPOMjvFW8BM1XDGurdj2v3EVEE_NWQ1Mcun5QbM8uOUCQcrP6fraUtRNjE2m2sJG6plXlbAS8orhecSHBagF-E0M4N9CTTAClDISpwryiRCWZPaJmCWg4/s1600/Elisha-Abbo-750x430.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="430" data-original-width="750" height="228" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiBgCKWS9DltWAKOb_bZM2_5puPOMjvFW8BM1XDGurdj2v3EVEE_NWQ1Mcun5QbM8uOUCQcrP6fraUtRNjE2m2sJG6plXlbAS8orhecSHBagF-E0M4N9CTTAClDISpwryiRCWZPaJmCWg4/s400/Elisha-Abbo-750x430.jpg" width="400" /></a></div> <br /> The Actors Guild of Nigeria (AGN) has stated that it will hold stakeholders meeting to address the controversy that trailed the recent appointment of Elisha Abbo, senator representing Adamawa north, as patron of the body.<br /> <br /> Emeka-Rollas Ejezie, national president of the guild, disclosed this to NAN on Thursday in Abuja.<br /> <br /> Abbo was installed as a patron of the AGN at its 9th biennial lecture held on March 11, while Ned Nwoko, husband of Regina Daniels, was appointed chairman of the board of national patrons.<br /> <br /> The lawmaker’s appointment has stirred hostile reactions on social media from some industry watchers and players, including some female members of the association, who argued that he was not suitable for such position.<br /> <a name='more' id="more"></a><br /> <br /> Kate Henshaw and Hilda Dokunbo had hitched their argument on a viral video that emerged on the internet where the lawmaker was seen beating a nursing mother in a sex toy shop in Abuja last year.<br /> <br /> Subsequently, some northern actors were said to have threatened to leave the guild if Abbo is removed as a patron of the group.<br /> <br /> Jimmy Lot, chairman of the Adamawa state chapter of the AGN, said that the lawmaker was recommended for the appointment because of his tremendous work and support to actors and youths in the north-east.<br /> <br /> “Those people raising issues, do they think that there are no women in the North or in Adamawa that can fight the Senator,” he said.<br /> <br /> “We the Adamawa chapter recommended him because of his performance to his constituency, and so based on his performance we rated him and recommended him to the national AGN.”<br /> <br /> As a result of this, the AGN president said the guild was to hold stakeholders meeting on March 23 in Lagos to address all views and objections concerning the appointment of its patrons.<br /> <br /> He, however, frowned at the decision of some of the guild’s members to express their opinions and displeasure on social media.<br /> <br /> “We have fixed a stakeholders meeting for Monday and put out a notice for members to come, so let them come and talk about it,” he said.<br /> <br /> “We don’t run our guild on social media because we are one big family.”

Latest-News AGN stakeholders to meet over Elisha Abbo’s selection as patron

The Actors Guild of Nigeria (AGN) has stated that it will hold stakeholders meeting to address the controversy that trailed the recent app...

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Ben Murray-Bruce loses wife to cancer

<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhiEKV-b1Du6auT3iUFOhok7vE1pIlEzI8-AIzaN6T0pUsLTil1p_MWK0KN4XTb8DnLzHib9AXGJqyWe3Ef5zqQ-5sLkwxm6y-ykGxpEqm5ofUgumdhmIP2-CxbRXTSitH8OW6jMpV8EEg/s1600/bruce-750x430.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="430" data-original-width="750" height="228" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhiEKV-b1Du6auT3iUFOhok7vE1pIlEzI8-AIzaN6T0pUsLTil1p_MWK0KN4XTb8DnLzHib9AXGJqyWe3Ef5zqQ-5sLkwxm6y-ykGxpEqm5ofUgumdhmIP2-CxbRXTSitH8OW6jMpV8EEg/s400/bruce-750x430.png" width="400" /></a></div> <br /> Media entrepreneur and former Senator representing Bayelsa East Senatorial District, Ben Murray-Bruce, has lost his wife to cancer.<br /> <br /> <br /> Murray-Bruce made the sad revelation on Friday via his verified Twitter handle.<br /> <br /> He wrote, “I’m broken. Just lost my beautiful wife to cancer. She was my best friend for 43 years and my wife for 41 years. Cancer is real, but it shouldn’t be a death sentence – awareness, and early detection and treatment are key to survival. I miss her so so much. I’m broken.<br /> <a name='more' id="more"></a><br /> <br /> “Our children are devastated, I am too. But I have to be strong for them. Please put our family in your prayers. Like the sun, my wife was a blessing and touched the lives of everyone she met.<br /> <br /> “Though she’s gone, she’d remain alive in our hearts forever.”

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Media entrepreneur and former Senator representing Bayelsa East Senatorial District, Ben Murray-Bruce, has lost his wife to cancer. Mur...

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NNPC explains why some filling stations are not selling fuel at N125

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Coronavirus: Lagos state searching for 1,300 people who had contact with the 12 confirmed COVID-19 cases

<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="375" data-original-width="600" height="250" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjKTctecDk9zawpxvn6cKG6_Q1XhB46xiVD-pYAgSF01CqY0XjiFMFKuQZ66XXoX-i6692Z-iixAShaDnRfESAMdnqT_OWRbWNvKJndfsVWA8SqtqVEDqrUdJndrdi5hl592uC8mWuLoZ2A/s400/coronavirus+isolation+yaba+lagos.png" width="400" /></div> <b><br /></b><b>The Lagos State Government on Thursday confirmed four new coronavirus cases, bringing to 12, the total number of cases in the country.</b><br /> <br /> The state Commissioner for Health, Akin Abayomi, who disclosed this at a press conference in Ikeja, also said the Italian, who was the first person in the country to be diagnosed with the disease, had tested negative.<br /> <br /> <a name='more' id="more"></a><br /> <br /> Abayomi stated this just as more states took steps to prevent the spread of the disease. The Federal Capital Territory and states such as Ogun, Benue, Anambra, Enugu and Niger on Thursday ordered the closure of their schools.<br /> <br /> The Italian was diagnosed with COVID-19 on February 27 in Lagos, where he was being treated, after developing symptoms of the disease at Lafarge Africa Plc, Ewekoro, Ogun State.<br /> <br /> A few weeks later, a Nigerian, who had contact with him, tested positive for the disease, making him the second coronavirus case in the country.<br /> <br /> The third case is a 30-year-old woman, who returned to the country from the United Kingdom on Friday last week.<br /> <br /> The cases rose to eight on Wednesday when the Minister of Health, Dr Osagie Ohanaire, said a woman, her six-week-old baby and three other persons had been diagnosed with the disease. The minister had said four of the five cases were in Lagos State, while one was in Ekiti State.<br /> <b><br /></b><b>Lagos tracing 1,300 contacts of infected persons</b><br /> <br /> The Lagos State commissioner for health told journalists that state government was tracing 1,300 persons that might have had contact with the positive cases.<br /> <br /> “We are following over 1,300 people right now,” the commissioner said.<br /> <br /> Abayomi disclosed that 19 persons, who had contact with Wednesday’s cases, were tested and five of them were positive.<br /> <br /> He stated, “Out of those 19 tests, we have four new positives. The first new positive is the contact of the third case that came from the UK. She has tested positive and will be admitted shortly. We have a new case, a female, a Nigerian, returning from France via Istanbul on Turkish Airlines TK 1830 on March 14.<br /> <br /> “We have a third case, Nigerian male, in his 50s. He has never travelled anywhere and he presented with symptoms. He was referred to us, we went to retrieve samples and it tested positive. He has since been admitted into our facility. The fourth case is a Nigerian male; he arrived on March 13 from Frankfurt via Lufthansa Flight no LH568.”<br /> <br /> The commissioner stated that the state was running more tests on suspected cases and contacts of confirmed cases. “It is clear that we have a combination of imported cases and local transmission,” Abayomi added.<br /> <br /> <b>LASG may come up with social distancing policy</b><br /> <br /> The commissioner added that members of the state executive council were meeting to decide on the next step which might include social distancing.<br /> <br /> He advised Lagosians to maintain social distance to slow down the outbreak of the disease.<br /> <br /> Abayomi stated, “The virus cannot jump a distance. It has to move either through contact, very close proximity or if you touch the surface that an infected person has also touched.<br /> <br /> “Effectively, it means no touching; if you are unwell, stay at home, particularly if you have respiratory symptoms. Communicate with your medical professionals, or contact any of our hotlines, particularly, 08000CORONA.”<br /> <b><br /></b><b>Italian who brought COVID-19 to Nigeria recovers</b><br /> <br /> The commissioner disclosed that the Italian who brought coronavirus to Nigeria, had tested negative for the disease.<br /> <br /> He said the index case, who had been receiving treatment at the Infectious Disease Hospital, Yaba would be discharged if he tested negative one more time.<br /> <br /> “I have the good news to tell you that the index case has now cleared the virus. We will check him one more time and if he is negative, he will be discharged,” Abayomi said.

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The Lagos State Government on Thursday confirmed four new coronavirus cases, bringing to 12, the total number of cases in the country. Th...

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Nigerians raid pharmacies for Chloroquine after Trump recommends as medication for Coronavirus

<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjl2ASIaUdSYKIz8yuK4f-baVoT3OBdUU3SU6S5omFk-L_tXH3pqDEI0nCARDoO1ASdf27R-5W2EcwWfIZd-gdAZsnd3X41ZTwKBP6wbHBYtLLlgwr_oil_tfU3b6drXdtVDCsCtWI1JsvJ/s1600/Chloroquine+coronavirus.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="793" data-original-width="1600" height="158" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjl2ASIaUdSYKIz8yuK4f-baVoT3OBdUU3SU6S5omFk-L_tXH3pqDEI0nCARDoO1ASdf27R-5W2EcwWfIZd-gdAZsnd3X41ZTwKBP6wbHBYtLLlgwr_oil_tfU3b6drXdtVDCsCtWI1JsvJ/s320/Chloroquine+coronavirus.jpg" width="320" /></a></div> <b><br /></b> <b><br /></b> <b>A remarkable increase in demand for Chloroquine (Primarily used to treat Malaria) skyrocketed in Nigeria on Thursday after American President, Donald Trump said the drug had been approved to treat COVID-19.</b><br /> <br />  In the wake of the coronavirus pandemic, health experts had dismissed speculations that chloroquine could be used in fighting the virus, but at a press conference on Thursday said, Trump the drug had gone through the approval process, a statement contrary to that of Stephen Hahn, the commissioner for Food and Drug Administration who maintained that chloroquine would still need to go through clinical trials.<br /> <a name='more' id="more"></a><br /> <br /> Chloroquine, an oral artemisinin-based monotherapies (oAMTs) for malaria treatment, could become a scarce commodity in a matter of days due to the panic buying.<br /> <br /> Our correspondent visited Lydab Pharmacy in Ibafo, Ogun state and noticed an increase in demand for Chloroquine, the pharmacist expressed his shock at the sudden increase in demand, many customers also wanted to buy in bulk.<br /> <br /> At Chris Health Pharmacy, Onilekere area of Lagos, the store owner who preferred to be anonymous said he was yet to understand why people trooped in to buy chloroquine.<br /> <br /> “The demand today is crazy, I have about 20 packs left and all finished this evening. In fact, only one person bought 15 packs. He said he would return tomorrow when I have more,”<br /> <br /> At another Pharmacy in Lagos,our source observed that a young lady came in and bought six chloroquine syrup for children said: “They said it was 50:50 cure for coronavirus before, but the US president confirmed today that it should be used for coronavirus. I’m sure the prices would go up immediately.”<br /> <br /> The total figures of coronavirus patients in Nigeria has risen to 12 after four new cases were confirmed in Lagos State on Thursday.

Latest-News Nigerians raid pharmacies for Chloroquine after Trump recommends as medication for Coronavirus

A remarkable increase in demand for Chloroquine (Primarily used to treat Malaria) skyrocketed in Nigeria on Thursday after American Presi...

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Coronavirus: Nigeria shuts all universities, schools nationwide

<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="340" data-original-width="615" height="220" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgFhDf0U-5hZ97_x2MVeAoC-u3K13UjDaq31us7P3n4Cam6OSVX25n1rWh4t_iqewySGIkMolJcYdUSRLpg5nQ9WAV2i0s2fIXnMR0SEcJ5zbUE_9sSuSI-RUmY_FPC-K94qxeNkdxdW41g/s400/UNILAG.jpg" width="400" /></div> <br /> <b>The Federal Ministry of Education has ordered the immediate closure of tertiary institutions, secondary and primary schools nationwide over the outbreak of the coronavirus in the country and as part of measures to contain the spread.</b><br /> <br /> The Permanent Secretary of the ministry, Mr Sonny Echono, confirmed this to NE on Thursday.<br /> <a name='more' id="more"></a><br /> <br /> When sent an inquiry through a text message, Echono simply replied, “Confirmed.”<br /> <br /> A statement later added that the Minister of Education, Adamu Adamu, noted that in carrying out the directive, all the principals of the 104 unity colleges “should fast-track the ongoing second term examinations and close shop until further notice.”<br /> <br /> The ministry’s Director of Press and Public Relations, Mr Ben Goong, in the statement, said, “The Federal Government has ordered the closure of all the 104 unity schools in the country on March 26, 2020 as a proactive step aimed at preventing the spread of the dreaded coronavirus.<br /> <br /> “Giving the order today through the Permanent Secretary, the minister said all the principals of the unity colleges should fast track the ongoing second term examinations and close shop until further notice.<br /> <br /> “In the meantime, the minister said the management of all the unity colleges should immediately activate the necessary emergency procedures and processes such as the provision of alcohol-based sanitisers and hand washing facilities among others, adding that students should strictly adhere to the principles and best practices of good hygiene.

Latest-News Coronavirus: Nigeria shuts all universities, schools nationwide

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Nigeria shuts three international airports over coronavirus

<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="339" data-original-width="500" height="270" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgp_zWVgTGs2HRCFtIo-2cNfgCidbmSNDhupe1zzCsIeV8-_h1QDiR0syDdfMY63ADy_MpFXT0riP-nil2YyWxBQPR20uVbvDs4E14OdHKKCRAUb2iLElEUiyzuKSx7_iuUbJmAyFKKUCvx/s400/Mallam+Aminu+Kano+International+Airport.jpg" width="400" /></div> <br /> <br /> The Federal Government of Nigeria has shut down three international airports in the country as part of its strategic measures to curb the spread of coronavirus across the country.<br /> <br /> In a statement signed by the Director-General of the Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority, Capt. Musa Nuhu, he said, the three airports would be closed till further notice effective Saturday, March 21.<br /> <br /> <a name='more' id="more"></a><br /> <br /> The three airports shut are; Mallam Aminu Kano International Airport, Kano; Akanu Ibiam International Airport, Enugu; and the Port Harcourt International Airport, Omagwa.<br /> <br /> However, he said the Nnamdi Azikwe International Airport, Abuja and the Murtala Muhammed International Airport, Lagos would still be opened but no flight operations will be allowed from the thirteen COVID-19 (Coronavirus) high-risk countries.

Latest-News Nigeria shuts three international airports over coronavirus

The Federal Government of Nigeria has shut down three international airports in the country as part of its strategic measures to curb the...

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Lagos Explosions: Death toll rises to 21

<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="853" data-original-width="1280" height="266" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjtvpfaiNDJMk_ohtmoZUhZaqPIJ1bdDdLWjHj6HQBI3_1JvhDIx7SUSa0tsIh_2kml9qvYCZkxt4P2XIBMghmRugllQCTgb1IGw9XepzkkHXglbbueH0FXlW_Dxl5dcns4jeVUt0jawspx/s400/abule+lagos+explosion.jpg" width="400" /></div> <br /> One more body was recovered on Thursday from the ruins of Sunday’s explosions at Abule Ado, a Lagos suburb, bringing total fatalities to 21.<br /> <br /> The state Emergency Management Agency (LASEMA) said no fewer than 468 persons have been displaced.<br /> <a name='more' id="more"></a><br /> <br /> Its Director-General Dr Femi Oke-Osanyintolu said 100 of the displaced persons have been resettled at the Igando Relief Camp.<br /> <br /> Oke-Osanyintolu said two persons were reported missing, adding that the agency would continue to provide necessary updates with regards to the incident.<br /> <br /> “Our help desk remains manned and our personnel are available to manage enquiries and arrange transfer to the LASEMA relief camp for those who have need of shelter and food.<br /> <br /> “We appeal for calm and urge members of the public to keep away from the scene. We will continue to provide updates,” he said.<br /> <br /> The Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation (NNPC) has begun to repair part of its System 2B Pipeline that was ruptured by the explosions.<br /> <br /> The pipeline takes refined products from Atlas Cove Jetty in Lagos to Ejigbo, Mosimi, Ore and Ilorin, among others.<br /> <br /> Some NNPC trucks were seen drawing fuel from the ruptured pipeline.<br /> <br /> However, the NNPC said its trucks were sucking water and not fuel.<br /> <br /> The Group General Manager, Group Public Affairs Division, NNPC, Dr Kennie Obateru, told The Nation that the Corporation was taking steps to fix the pipeline and remediate the environment.<br /> <br /> Also Thursday, the Lagos chapter of the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) called for support for the N2billion Disaster Relief Fund initiated by Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu for the victims.<br /> <br /> It said the fund would go a long way in ameliorating the victims’ suffering.<br /> <br /> Chairman Lagos CAN, Apostle Alexander Bamgbola, in a chat with reporters, asked churches and good-spirited Christians to contribute generously to the relief fund.<br /> <br /> He said: “We strongly appeal to all the ministries and churches in Lagos state to contribute generously to this fund. No contribution will be too small.<br /> <br /> “We encourage you to please send your cash contributions directly to the accounts of the fund as indicated by our dear Governor.<br /> <br /> “We have absolute confidence in our dearly beloved Governor that the funds will be judiciously utilised under his able watch.”<br /> <br /> While calling for a probe of the incident, Lagos CAN said this would inspire more confidence among residents and visitors to Lagos.<br /> <br /> Two corporate bodies, Dangote Cement Plc. and Zenith Bank Plc donated N100million each to the N2billion relief fund.<br /> <br /> They made the donation when they visited the governor.<br /> <br /> Dangote Cement was represented by Emmanuel Ikazoboh; Zenith Bank Plc Group Managing Director Ebenezer Onyeagwu represented his bank.<br /> <br /> Ikazoboh announced the donation of N100million worth of cement for the reconstruction of the damaged part of Abule Ado.<br /> <br /> Zenith Bank donated the same amount for the care of victims of the disaster, even as Onyeagwu pledged more in due course.<br /> <b><br /></b><b>Sanwo-Olu expressed appreciation for the donations.</b><br /> <br /> Some of the victims of the explosions appealed for government’s support to enable them to rebuild their property.<br /> <br /> The residents spoke in separate interviews with News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) during the enumeration exercise for victims by LASEMA officials.<br /> <br /> One of the victims, Mr Adeniran Iyiola, who resides at No, 3, Kehinde Oyerinde St. Off Ganiu Adams St., said his house roof was blown off.<br /> <br /> Iyiola said the odour of dead bodies still pervaded the environment, saying that the incident also affected power and water supplies.<br /> <br /> He pleaded with the state government to support his family.<br /> <br /> Mr Paul Efon, another resident, said the entire roof of his building was destroyed.<br /> <br /> Mrs Chinwe Odemezue said she had been devastated since the incident occurred, thanking God that all her family members were alive.<br /> <br /> NAN reports that a total of 16 streets were affected by the explosion, including Basil Offia, Bishop, Abegbeji, Ganiu Adams, Kehinde Cele and Philips Obun, among others.

Latest-News Lagos Explosions: Death toll rises to 21

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Coronavirus: Don’t panic, we’re on top of it, Buhari tells Nigerians

<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="175" data-original-width="288" height="243" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh8h1moh6P7-gSpuvacM2wB1SDAbSGqg-f6x9UJXN7ScKKvLJmt0tTcCw_FjdaBOze8EXuhYCCl88HvX_95O-r72hE53zvwtp6q1ro_3-ht0_QyS82YL_n_-B5y1x0nlPr8YoINIvQZruUB/s400/buhari+t.jpg" width="400" /></div> <br /> <br /> <b>Nigeria’s President, Muhammadu Buhari has told Nigerians not to panic over the rise in Coronavirus cases in the nation, as government is on top of the situation.</b><br /> <br /> Nigeria has recorded 12 cases of Coronavirus, with thousands of contacts being traced.<br /> <br /> Senior Special Assistant to the President on Media and Publicity, Garba Shehu, in a statement said the Muhammadu Buhari administration had taken some steps to mitigate the effects on the Nigerian people.<br /> <a name='more' id="more"></a><br /> <br /> “To prevent the spread of cases imported into Nigeria, the President has already ordered the restrictions of travel from 13 countries, each with more than 1,000 confirmed cases of Covid-19. Government has also suspended visas issued to nationals of these countries. The restriction will take effect from March 21 and will remain until further notice. While Nigeria delights in welcoming the world, the safety and protection of our citizens and land must take priority.<br /> <br /> “The various agencies of government including Media owned by the government have embarked on vigorous campaigns promoting hygiene measures. There are, currently, very stringent regimes of checks at the points of air and sea entry into the country. The effort Nigeria is making as is well known, has already received the commendation of the World Health Organisation (WHO),” he said.<br /> <br /> According to Shehu, “the Presidency wishes to assure Nigerians that government is on top of the situation. There is no cause for panic. So far measures put in place are working efficiently. What this country is doing has been recommended as a template.<br /> <br /> “The President trusts the relevant Ministers in his cabinet and the officials of the National Centre for Disease Control (NCDC), who are providing him with constant updates and professional counsel. These officials have a track record of competence.”<br /> <br /> He said the President instructed the Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation (NNPC) to reduce the pump price of fuel, as the Covid-19 pandemic had led to a crash in the global price of crude oil, and that the President decided that every Nigerian should benefit from this.<br /> <br /> “Subsequently, the NNPC announced a 20 naira deduction, and the pump price of fuel has now been reduced from 145 naira per litre to 125 naira per litre.<br /> <br /> “The Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) on Monday announced a credit relief of N1.1Trillion Naira to businesses affected by the pandemic. The Bank has also established a facility for household, small and medium enterprises (SMEs) and announced a reduction of interest rates for loans from 9% to 5%.<br /> <br /> “We do not want to create panic. But we will continue to update the Nigerian public with relevant information. We plead with every Nigerian to cooperate with the government in the fight against Covid-19 and obey all instructions from the NCDC. We have a high level Presidential Coordination Committee chaired by the Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF). This body should be allowed to carry out its duties,” he added.<br /> <br /> Shehu said the presidency pleaded with Nigerians not to see this most peculiar of times as one to be politicised or seen as an opportunity to regurgitate grudges against the government or the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC).<br /> <br /> “North, South, East, and West – all Nigerians must unite to fight this plague, irrespective of religious or ideological affiliation. In this regard, populist advocates such as the one accusing the President of “complacency” simply because he has not made a television address by ranking members of our respected parliament are cheap and sensational. These are not the times for populism and cheap politics. President Buhari thanks all those at the forefront of the fight against the deadly disease,” he said.

Latest-News Coronavirus: Don’t panic, we’re on top of it, Buhari tells Nigerians

Nigeria’s President, Muhammadu Buhari has told Nigerians not to panic over the rise in Coronavirus cases in the nation, as government is ...

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EFCC arraigns Saraki’s cousin for diverting N221.33 million

<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="275" data-original-width="545" height="201" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjxUeObwvnWHpVlIBDp4Yb3PF9vLElQhcBFLzptKLEuCE10BP8HNZAZz649iG3eYuaNpUrZqOIPIW7h_WD_mN7Js9HcuAA-YVkn_hO5hOIgoGFypyQvgCB1FUOP5TXCSmtV56dN8JyzXUGi/s400/EFCC-logo3.jpg" width="400" /></div> <br /> The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission has arraigned Ope Saraki, a cousin of the former Senate President, Dr Bukola Saraki, for alleged diversion of N221,339,827.00 Kwara State Government funds.<br /> <br /> Saraki was on Thursday charged before Justice Adenike Akinpelu of a Kwara State High Court sitting in Ilorin on two counts bordering on alleged diversion of funds meant for contract for purchase of 13 ambulances and 13 generators for 13 General/Specialist Hospitals in the state.<br /> <a name='more' id="more"></a><br /> <br /> The EFCC alleged that Saraki, while serving as Special Adviser on Millennium Development Goal to the Kwara State government, allegedly acquired indirectly a contract worth N171,990,000.00 for the purchase of 13 units of ambulance for 13 General/Specialist hospitals to Chemiroy Nigeria Limited.<br /> <br /> The prosecution also alleged that the accused person knowingly acquired in contract worth N49,349,827.00 to MC Drive Logistics and Institutes Limited for 13 units of 100 KVA generators for 13 General/Specialist hospitals in the state.<br /> <br /> The offences, the prosecutor alleged, were contrary to section 12 of Corrupt Practices and other Related Offences Act 2000 and punishable under the same law.<br /> <br /> Saraki pleaded not guilty to the two charges.<br /> <br /> The prosecuting counsel, Sesan Ola, urged the court to remand the accused person in any of the correctional facilities within the state.<br /> <br /> However, the defence counsel, Dr Kayode Olatoke(SAN), prayed the court to grant the accused person bail in liberal terms adding that Saraki is a man of substance who would not jump bail if granted.<br /> <br /> Olatoke said the accused person had been facing similar charge at the Federal High Court sitting in Ilorin and his travelling documents had been deposited with the court since 2015.<br /> <br /> “The defendant had been charged before the Federal High Court for similar offence since 2015, he was granted bail and his travelling documents have been deposited in the court. He has not run away from the country since then and he can not run away. He is a bonafide citizen of this country and he has no place to run to”, he said.<br /> <br /> Justice Akinpelu granted the accused person bail in the sum of N300m and two sureties in like sum.<br /> <br /> The case was adjourned till April,16, 2020 for hearing.

Latest-News EFCC arraigns Saraki’s cousin for diverting N221.33 million

The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission has arraigned Ope Saraki, a cousin of the former Senate President, Dr Bukola Saraki, for alle...

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Oyo governor apologies for going ahead with PDP rally despite Coronavirus

<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh_gYV6310vw_beTRlOqBxClJsudLYepbe1rHTjIh1t97-gBZ5ao7XUP2iZ7HX8AThiFUjqms1gEb2FOV_6GxQ81rOX-L1kuMfR7205mmPSTosvQJ8b7X2S_Uzx5bKDVssq7lKzZ0MVXEb5/s1600/seyi+makinde+oyo+govenor.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="400" data-original-width="400" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh_gYV6310vw_beTRlOqBxClJsudLYepbe1rHTjIh1t97-gBZ5ao7XUP2iZ7HX8AThiFUjqms1gEb2FOV_6GxQ81rOX-L1kuMfR7205mmPSTosvQJ8b7X2S_Uzx5bKDVssq7lKzZ0MVXEb5/s320/seyi+makinde+oyo+govenor.png" width="320" /></a></div> <b><br /></b> <b><br /></b> <b>Governor Seyi Makinde of Oyo State on Thursday evening apologised for the rally of the Peoples Democratic Party which was held in Ibadan on Wednesday in spite of the fears of Coronavirus pandemic.</b><br /> <br /> <a name='more' id="more"></a><br /> <br /> The Governor has come under strident criticisms in the past 24 hours for allowing such large gathering of people to take place in spite of his advocacy for social distancing as a way of curtailing the spread of Coronavirus.<br /> <br /> But in a statement released on Thursday evening detailing efforts of his government to combat spread of Coronavirus, the Governor accepted responsibility for the mega rally.<br /> <br /> He also said the rally should never have happened<br /> <br /> “I have received your complaints about the rally that was held yesterday, and I feel obligated to state in clear terms that we acted based on the information we had at that time.<br /> <br /> “In retrospect, it should not have happened and I take responsibility for that lapse in judgement,” the Governor said.<br /> <br /> Makinde also said there is no confirmed case of Coronavirus in Oyo State yet. He, however, outlined a number of measures his government is taking to stop the spread of the pandemic in the state.<br /> “Therefore, as at this moment, the Oyo State Government is doing the following:<br /> <br /> “Setting up the Oyo State COVID-19 Task Force led by me. This task force will be holding its first meeting tomorrow, Friday, March 20, 2020. Immediately after the meeting, I will hold a press conference and update you on all decisions reached and so far, implemented,” the Governor said.<br /> <br /> <br /> Read his full statement below<br /> <blockquote><b>Statement by Governor Seyi Makinde on the COVID-19 Situation in Oyo State</b><br /> <br /> My dear good people of Oyo State, it has become imperative to communicate directly about the COVID-19 situation in the state, and the measures that the Oyo State Government is taking to ensure the prevention, containment and control of this disease.<br /> <br /> Between yesterday and today, a lot has come to light in Nigeria regarding COVID-19, also known as the Coronavirus Disease, which has been ravaging the world for the past few months.<br /> <br /> At a point, some people thought we were immune to this disease. I know some among you may still hold that opinion. Although as stated by our Commissioner for Health, Dr Bashir Bello, at a press conference this morning, we do not currently have any confirmed case of Coronavirus in Oyo State; we still all need to be more proactive.<br /> <br /> I have received your complaints about the rally that was held yesterday, and I feel obligated to state in clear terms that we acted based on the information we had at that time. In retrospect, it should not have happened and I take responsibility for that lapse in judgement.<br /> <br /> On assuming office on May 29, 2019, I swore an oath to serve and protect you, I want to assure you that our administration is doing everything in our power and working with the agencies of the Federal Government, to take proactive measures to prevent the spread of this virus. I urge members of the public to not give in to any form of panic.<br /> <br /> As a people, we can take several measures to beat this virus. It has been shown that maintaining proper hygiene through frequent washing of the hands, scrubbing for 20 seconds with soap and water, and the use of hand sanitizers that are 90% alcohol based, is a key way to prevent the spread of this disease. I implore all citizens to make these practices a routine and a priority. Social distancing is also highly encouraged.<br /> <br /> Therefore, as at this moment, the Oyo State Government is doing the following:<br /> <br /> Setting up the Oyo State COVID-19 Task Force led by me. This task force will be holding its first meeting tomorrow, Friday, March 20, 2020. Immediately after the meeting, I will hold a press conference and update you on all decisions reached and so far, implemented.<br /> <br /> The Free Health Mission which was launched on Monday, March 16, 2020, will continue. The mission will be used as a vehicle for disseminating information about Coronavirus prevention and control.<br /> <br /> However, anyone who has shown any known symptoms of COVID-19 such as dry cough, fever, nausea, severe headaches, difficulty breathing and tiredness should please, isolate themselves and call the following Oyo State Ministry of Health helplines:‬ ‪08038210122‬, ‪08023229267‬ or ‪08073431342.‬‬‬<br /> <br /> Once again, I urge all citizens of Oyo State to remain calm and observe all preventive measures announced by the State and Federal Ministries of Health and their agencies.<br /> <br /> God bless the Federal Republic of Nigeria.<br /> God bless Oyo State.<br /> <br /> Seyi Makinde<br /> Governor of Oyo State</blockquote>

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You cannot be a seductive gospel artiste- Evangelist slams Mercy Chinwo

<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj892IH9ZrOlPO-cXySTVI8mbIz0RDD_1-K1q8SgDeoM-wQn1xJxCVOCNl7qbRg0Pv4lDq2fcwyDVr0GhNU9OiX88qvryjkHQEnLUAidfWqjRnT7PophYRyFTKBIRzK29pBSBf0pcUgTm0/s1600/5e730deda1247-1-750x430.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="430" data-original-width="750" height="228" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj892IH9ZrOlPO-cXySTVI8mbIz0RDD_1-K1q8SgDeoM-wQn1xJxCVOCNl7qbRg0Pv4lDq2fcwyDVr0GhNU9OiX88qvryjkHQEnLUAidfWqjRnT7PophYRyFTKBIRzK29pBSBf0pcUgTm0/s400/5e730deda1247-1-750x430.jpg" width="400" /></a></div> <br /> A certain Victor Edet who claims to be an evangelist has slammed gospel artiste, Mercy Chinwo.<br /> <br /> In his message, Edet alleged that the ‘Excess Love’ singer dress seductively, adding that  she is not what a ‘true Christian should look like’.<br /> <br /> :”YOU can’t be singing gospel songs and be seductive at the same time. A true Christian should look DECENT and not SEDUCTIVE, Mercy Chinwo beware.”<br /> <br /> Chinwo is yet to react to his statement as at the time of filing this report.<br /> <a name='more' id="more"></a><br /> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi7F2V9WAtG5eYypU-QCIPZOsukvfIQTjlkqppbVuTSfabxAzy2hCCTD5aPlavGn9rWMuQzoURewE-vcsi2Co3G_71R10Gw0jjQmhyphenhyphenzq1NxT6oTN0oBpCIQ91UoJYGuTAMusK5c2A9q6DQ/s1600/5e730e11ccc2e-475x676.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="676" data-original-width="475" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi7F2V9WAtG5eYypU-QCIPZOsukvfIQTjlkqppbVuTSfabxAzy2hCCTD5aPlavGn9rWMuQzoURewE-vcsi2Co3G_71R10Gw0jjQmhyphenhyphenzq1NxT6oTN0oBpCIQ91UoJYGuTAMusK5c2A9q6DQ/s400/5e730e11ccc2e-475x676.jpg" width="280" /></a></div> <br /> Unknown to many, Mercy Chinwo won music talent show, ‘Nigerian Idol’ back in 2012 . She stated that her mother was not aware that she attended the audition.<br /> <br /> “My mother was not aware that I was going for the audition initially. My dad is dead. When I was invited to the next stage of the audition in Lagos, I informed my mother and my family and they were in support of it. They also helped out and advised me”.

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Two US lawmakers test positive for coronavirus

<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh7pR7h_kfyXpjbqnlZLgTu9uvxhSPTXD9kBS76feIE-PoThY0ju4GbE5ngEqmPfTqvHP-MkDLz2XH3hm9HvCdJ_YsPjdAMBz7hyphenhyphennPPbh1nl7pNua9XNKDtgmXqaQzu9kNxc4Mju3lK3wA/s1600/Coronavirus-748x430j.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="430" data-original-width="748" height="228" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh7pR7h_kfyXpjbqnlZLgTu9uvxhSPTXD9kBS76feIE-PoThY0ju4GbE5ngEqmPfTqvHP-MkDLz2XH3hm9HvCdJ_YsPjdAMBz7hyphenhyphennPPbh1nl7pNua9XNKDtgmXqaQzu9kNxc4Mju3lK3wA/s400/Coronavirus-748x430j.jpg" width="400" /></a></div> <br /> Two US lawmakers including a Florida representative on Wednesday became the first members of Congress to announce they have tested positive for the novel coronavirus.<br /> <br /> Congressman Mario Diaz-Balart’s office said in a statement that “just a short while ago, he was notified that he has tested positive for COVID-19.”<br /> <br /> The Republican who represents part of Miami follows that city’s Mayor Francis Suarez, who announced that he had tested positive for coronavirus last week.<br /> <br /> They are following CDC-specified self-isolation guidelines at their homes.<br /> <a name='more' id="more"></a><br /> <br /> Diaz-Balart’s diagnosis prompted a member of congressional leadership, the number two Republican Steve Scalise, to immediately self-quarantine as he had an extended meeting with his colleague last week.<br /> <br /> “Fortunately, I am not experiencing any symptoms, and will continue working remotely on Congress’s Coronavirus response” and remain in close contact with Trump administration officials to ensure that swift action to address the crisis continues, Scalise said in a statement.<br /> <br /> In the western state of Utah, Democrat Ben McAdams became the second congressman to announce he tested positive.<br /> <br /> After developing a mild cold Saturday evening when he returned from Washington, “my symptoms got worse and I developed a fever, a dry cough, labored breathing and I remained self-quarantined,” McAdams said.<br /> <br /> He was tested Tuesday, received a positive diagnosis Wednesday, and remains in isolation at home, he said.<br /> <br /> The attending physician of the US Congress said in a statement released by House Speaker Nancy Pelosi that Diaz-Balart and McAdams “are ill, but in good condition.”<br /> <br /> They are following self-isolation guidelines set forth by US health officials, he added.<br /> <br /> Diaz-Balart said that he had entered into quarantine and was working from his Washington apartment.<br /> <br /> “I want everyone to know that I am feeling much better,” he said.<br /> <br /> “However, it is important that everyone take this extremely seriously and follow CDC guidelines in order to avoid getting sick and mitigate the spread of this virus.”<br /> <br /> Several US lawmakers have self-quarantined after coming in contact with a man who attended a conservative conference near Washington shortly before he tested positive for coronavirus.<br /> <br /> The United States so far has more than 9,300 cases and 150 deaths, according to a Johns Hopkins University tracker.

Latest-News Two US lawmakers test positive for coronavirus

Two US lawmakers including a Florida representative on Wednesday became the first members of Congress to announce they have tested positiv...

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Coronavirus: Prepare for worst – WHO warns Africa

<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi0QO2ldeYL_s-r-z6YXLvQMG7yxlZCSL4J_UDqGYw66E7vGEnw92Y6J680qix9334pNIPGltzA7VQcDgsJT1b2yE_5MZQ68La_vS7pqeeYhmlbvvhr23kgCyhkVomtmfILX2CrEoXSmTZo/s1600/Capture.PNG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="464" data-original-width="570" height="323" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi0QO2ldeYL_s-r-z6YXLvQMG7yxlZCSL4J_UDqGYw66E7vGEnw92Y6J680qix9334pNIPGltzA7VQcDgsJT1b2yE_5MZQ68La_vS7pqeeYhmlbvvhr23kgCyhkVomtmfILX2CrEoXSmTZo/s400/Capture.PNG" width="400" /></a></div> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div> <br /> Sub-Saharan Africa has recorded its first COVID-19 death, a high-ranking politician in Burkina Faso, as the head of the World Health Organisation urged the continent to “prepare for the worst”.<br /> <br /> “Africa should wake up,” Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus told a news conference in Geneva on Wednesday, pointing out that “in other countries, we have seen how the virus actually accelerates after a certain tipping point”.<br /> <br /> Africa has lagged behind the global curve for coronavirus infections and deaths, but in the past few days has seen a significant rise in cases.<br /> <br /> Experts have repeatedly warned about the perils for the continent, given its weak health infrastructure, poverty, conflicts, poor sanitation and urban crowding.<br /> <a name='more' id="more"></a><br /> <br /> Medical authorities in the poor Sahel state of Burkina Faso announced Wednesday that the number of infections there had risen by seven to 27 — and that one of them, a 62-year-old diabetic woman, had died overnight.<br /> <br /> The country’s main opposition party, the Union for Progress and Change (UPC), said in a statement that the victim was its lawmaker Rose-Marie Compaore, the first vice president of the parliament.<br /> <br /> South Africa, the continent’s most industrialised economy, reported a more than one-third jump in cases, with 31 new infections bringing its tally to 116.<br /> <br /> Nearby Zambia announced its first two confirmed cases — a couple that returned to the capital Lusaka from a 10-day holiday in France.<br /> <br /> As of Wednesday, a tally of reported cases compiled by AFP stood at more than 600 for all of Africa.<br /> <br /> Of these, 16 cases have been fatal: six in Egypt, six in Algeria, two in Morocco, one in Sudan and one in Burkina Faso.<br /> <br /> Those figures are relatively small compared to the rest of world — the global death toll has passed 8,800 with almost 210,000 total infections.<br /> <br /> WHO chief Tedros said sub-Saharan Africa had recorded 233 infections, but warned the official numbers likely did not reflect the full picture.<br /> <br /> “Probably we have undetected cases or unreported cases,” he said.<br /> <br /> Watching from afar as disaster unfolds in Asia and Europe, some African countries have wasted little time in ordering drastic measures.<br /> <br /> Air traffic has been particularly hard hit, as many of Africa’s initial cases were detected in people who had returned from affected countries in Europe and the Middle East.<br /> <br /> Some countries, such as Somalia, Chad, Guinea-Bissau and, most recently, the island of Madagascar have moved to stop all flights into their countries.<br /> <br /> On Wednesday, Cape Verde — a tropical archipelago off Africa’s west coast that is heavily dependent on tourism — and the continent’s most populous nation, Nigeria, joined others in banning flights from the countries most affected by coronavirus.<br /> <br /> Burkina Faso has ordered the closure of all schools and barred all public and private gatherings until the end of April.<br /> <br /> There was concern on the unusually quiet streets of the capital Ouagadougou on Wednesday.<br /> <br /> “It’s worrying what is happening with this virus, but we cannot barricade ourselves like developed countries. We lack everything here — we live day-to-day,” said bicycle seller Boureima Baguian.<br /> <br /> “We cannot, for example, close the big market. If that happens, it’s not the coronavirus that will kill us but misery and hunger.”<br /> <br /> The Democratic Republic of Congo announced similar measures as it reported its first local case, banning flights from affected countries and closing schools and universities for four weeks.<br /> <br /> South Africa, Sub-Saharan Africa’s worst-hit country, has banned cruise ships from its ports. More than 1,700 people are stranded on a liner off Cape Town over fears that some have the virus.<br /> <br /> It is just the latest blow to tourism across the continent, with coronavirus fears also cancelling sporting, cultural and religious events.<br /> <br /> Christian and Muslim leaders in Burkina Faso, Ivory Coast and Senegal said they would suspend services to protect their faithful.<br /> <br /> A 2016 analysis by the Rand Corporation, a US think-tank, found that of the 25 countries in the world that were most vulnerable to infectious outbreaks, 22 were in Africa — the others were Afghanistan, Yemen and Haiti.<br /> <br /> The report identified a “disease hotspot belt” extending across the southern rim of the Sahara through the Sahel to the Horn of Africa, where many countries are struggling with conflicts.<br /> <br /> “Were a communicable disease to emerge within this chain of countries, it could easily spread across borders in all directions, abetted by high overall vulnerability and a string of weak national health systems along the way,” the report warned.<br /> <br /> Tedros recommended that mass gatherings be avoided, urging Africa to “cut it from the bud, expecting that the worst can happen”.<br /> <br /> “The best advice for Africa is to prepare for the worst and prepare today,” he said.

Latest-News Coronavirus: Prepare for worst – WHO warns Africa

Sub-Saharan Africa has recorded its first COVID-19 death, a high-ranking politician in Burkina Faso, as the head of the World Health Orga...

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Coronavirsu: FG proposes to cut 2020 budget by N1.5trn, suspends recruitmentThe federal government is proposing to cut the 2020 budget size by N1.5 trillion from N10.59 trillion to N9.09 trillion. Zainab Ahmed, the minister of finance, budget and national planning, announced the proposed cuts on Wednesday. The proposal has to be approved by the national assembly. “From the expenditure side, the president has approved that we should cut down the capital expenditure budgeted by 20% across ministries, departments and agencies,” NAN quoted her to have said. “Also, a 25% cut of all government-owned enterprises and these include the ones that are in the national budget, the 10 top ones we included in the 2020 budget but also those we did not include in the 2020 budget. “So, all of these would have their recurrent expenditure and capital expenditure cut down by 25%. “By these measures, we expect that the operating surpluses that would accrue to the federation will increase because when their operational expenditure reduces the operating surpluses that they remit to the treasury will also increase significantly.” She said the ministry of budget and national planning has issued guidelines to other ministries on how the adjustments would be made. “I can just say that the bulk cut is about N1.5 trillion, the reduction in the size of the budget. And this includes N457 billion from PMS under-recovery,” she explained. The minister said the planned recruitment into the country’s civil service would be suspended except for essential services such as security and health services. She said the federal executive council also agreed to restore and compliant by the civil service retirement regulations, while the modalities for the implementation of the social investment programme would also be reviewed. Ahmed also disclosed that the council agreed to review the non-essential tax rebate currently being implemented to cut down on tax expenditure so as to generate more revenue. “On recruitment, there is already an instruction to stop recruitment. What the agencies have been doing is replacement but even that is being suspended,” she said. “When things improve we will go back to the issue of recruitment but for now, our wage bill is already very high. “The president has directed that salaries and pensions must be paid unfailingly. We are maintaining our workforce as it is but we are just stopping the increase in the size of the nominal roll.” According to the minister, the budget revisions would be based on a worst-case scenario of $30 per barrel at 2.18 million barrels per day. President Muhammadu Buhari had constituted a committee to examine the impact of the coronavirus outbreak on the economy and how to fund the 2020 budget after oil price fell below the budget benchmark.

Latest-News Coronavirsu: FG proposes to cut 2020 budget by N1.5trn, suspends recruitmentThe federal government is proposing to cut the 2020 budget size by N1.5 trillion from N10.59 trillion to N9.09 trillion. Zainab Ahmed, the minister of finance, budget and national planning, announced the proposed cuts on Wednesday. The proposal has to be approved by the national assembly. “From the expenditure side, the president has approved that we should cut down the capital expenditure budgeted by 20% across ministries, departments and agencies,” NAN quoted her to have said. “Also, a 25% cut of all government-owned enterprises and these include the ones that are in the national budget, the 10 top ones we included in the 2020 budget but also those we did not include in the 2020 budget. “So, all of these would have their recurrent expenditure and capital expenditure cut down by 25%. “By these measures, we expect that the operating surpluses that would accrue to the federation will increase because when their operational expenditure reduces the operating surpluses that they remit to the treasury will also increase significantly.” She said the ministry of budget and national planning has issued guidelines to other ministries on how the adjustments would be made. “I can just say that the bulk cut is about N1.5 trillion, the reduction in the size of the budget. And this includes N457 billion from PMS under-recovery,” she explained. The minister said the planned recruitment into the country’s civil service would be suspended except for essential services such as security and health services. She said the federal executive council also agreed to restore and compliant by the civil service retirement regulations, while the modalities for the implementation of the social investment programme would also be reviewed. Ahmed also disclosed that the council agreed to review the non-essential tax rebate currently being implemented to cut down on tax expenditure so as to generate more revenue. “On recruitment, there is already an instruction to stop recruitment. What the agencies have been doing is replacement but even that is being suspended,” she said. “When things improve we will go back to the issue of recruitment but for now, our wage bill is already very high. “The president has directed that salaries and pensions must be paid unfailingly. We are maintaining our workforce as it is but we are just stopping the increase in the size of the nominal roll.” According to the minister, the budget revisions would be based on a worst-case scenario of $30 per barrel at 2.18 million barrels per day. President Muhammadu Buhari had constituted a committee to examine the impact of the coronavirus outbreak on the economy and how to fund the 2020 budget after oil price fell below the budget benchmark.

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You are too garrulous, Mr Know All -Uzodinma attacks Wike

Latest-News You are too garrulous, Mr Know All -Uzodinma attacks Wike

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American suspectedly dies of Coronavirus in Nigeria

<br /> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="800" data-original-width="1200" height="266" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg5kc0GJedvsY5ncBjtG9mHue6gK_F6g49AwLwKxK1p-9SmvZY9cVsK9faZd68hzx_lT-J4kcycTN1x-mSVIUmv-xlsEYRNK8hmKh8qDTiV521KlACttZi_86Qf4AmWP8_xoWfLiIbyMn4n/s400/coronavirus+post.jpg" width="400" /></div> <br /> An American has been suspected to have died of Coronavirus in Ekiti, Southwest Nigeria, the Ekiti State Government disclosed on Wednesday.<br /> <br /> Ekiti Commissioner for Health, Dr. Mojisola Yaya-Kolade, said the driver, who contracted Coronavirus in the state was suspectedly infected by the 27-year-old American Caucasian who died in the state.<br /> <a name='more' id="more"></a><br /> <br /> The commissioner, in a statement said the Ekiti State Taskforce on COVID-19, headed by Governor Kayode Fayemi, could confirm that “we have recorded an incidence of a Nigerian male, 38 years old, of Ekiti origin, who has tested positive to Covid-19.<br /> <br /> “The confirmed case is suspected to have been infected while driving an American Caucasian, male, 27 years old, who was visiting Nigeria from Richmond, Virginia, USA in the company of his caregiver, a Nigerian female Age 31, of Ekiti Origin.<br /> <br /> “The American male and his Nigerian female caregiver, arrived Nigeria on 3rd March 2020 through the Muritala Mohammed International Airport Lagos. Preliminary investigations revealed that the pair were driven by our confirmed case to Ibadan, where they stayed for two weeks, and arrived Ado Ekiti, Ekiti State on 13th March, 2020,” she explained.<br /> <br /> According to the commissioner, “a day after their arrival, the American male fell ill and he was taken to a private hospital where he was referred to a tertiary hospital. Unfortunately, he died from complications of his illness.<br /> <br /> “The hospital authorities alerted the State Taskforce and samples were taken from the American male as well as his two companions. The test for the male driver came back positive; the test for the female caregiver came back negative while the test for the American male was inconclusive.”<br /> <br /> Yaya-Kolade said in line with the Nigeria Center for Disease Control (NCDC) protocols, the Ekiti State Taskforce on COVID-19 had already quarantined the confirmed case on admission in the State Isolation Centre, while the caregiver who tested negative, was presently under observation in self isolation.<br /> <br /> “We have commenced the process of contact tracing, working with the Federal Ministry of Health and the World Health Organization (WHO) following the team’s itinerary since they landed in Nigeria on the 3rd of March 2020. We have also contacted the Oyo State Government since it was recorded that they stayed in Ibadan for two weeks before arriving Ekiti State.<br /> <br /> “The confirmed case is very stable and not showing any symptoms while NCDC will repeat the test for the caregiver who is also in self isolation. The Ekiti State Task Force on COVID-19 is following the NCDC Case Management Protocols with diligence. We want to urge Ekiti residents to stay calm and ensure they observe the prevention steps that are being publicized on all credible media.<br /> <br /> “It is important to state that this likely index case was on a short visit and had not been in Ekiti State for up to 72 hours before his death. The Ekiti State Taskforce on COVID-19 advises residents to continue to take self-preventive measures by washing their hands with soap and water, covering their mouths when coughing or sneezing, observing social distancing and to alert the authorities of any suspected case by calling the 112 Emergency Number or 09062970434, 09062970435, 09062970436.<br /> <br /> “The Government of Ekiti State will continue to update the public on new developments as necessary in our commitment to ensuring the safety and protection of all Ekiti residents,” she stated.<br /> <br />

Latest-News American suspectedly dies of Coronavirus in Nigeria

An American has been suspected to have died of Coronavirus in Ekiti, Southwest Nigeria, the Ekiti State Government disclosed on Wednesday...

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Chinese restaurant denies discriminating against Nigerians

<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="768" data-original-width="1024" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhKEfkX3V1E1N_cEkW8cOrerhE-muu1G0YKV-9OxhLTYO0kxOi0gIZCKnpqVd2TYxZuc9Z1_CEYcCjCf_HW8GIUv9jBvvza53HqLRVW0y0Gi1AukmdrW59gAG40Mdsq1KFrhLsqvSwYB1iz/s400/chinn.jpg" width="400" /></div> <br /> A Chinese restaurant, Huafei, has denied reports that it discriminated against Nigerians.<br /> <br /> Recall that the Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Commission shut the restaurant, located in Victoria Island, for refusing to serve Nigerians.<br /> <a name='more' id="more"></a><br /> <br /> According to the statement, the operator of the restaurant, Chief Ronnie Liu, debunked the allegations, saying, “We want to let Nigerians know that the allegation that we discriminated against and refused to serve Nigerians or rejected their business patronage is totally wrong and absolute false; we are trying all our best to do better things for both countries.<br /> <br /> “We are trying to connect with people in both countries. We are trying our best to make our Nigerian friends and Chinese friends benefit from each other.”<br /> <br /> According to the statement, Liu is the President of the Chinese Investors Association for Development and Promotion in Nigeria and the Founder of institute of Nigeria China Development Studies, University of Lagos and Chairman of Nigeria China Development business club.<br /> <br /> Liu described the restaurant as a “small platform for our friends from both Nigeria and China to share good ideas, help and enjoy each other.”<br /> <br /> He added, “We also have a centre called Nigeria China information centre.<br /> <br /> “How can people then imagine we are not open to Nigerians? The restaurant is fully open to Nigerians, Chinese and every other nationality.”<br /> <br /> He also highlighted the fact that the restaurant was named Huafei, a Chinese term meaning, China-Africa, adding that Huafei restaurant had never and would never discriminate against any human race.

Latest-News Chinese restaurant denies discriminating against Nigerians

A Chinese restaurant, Huafei, has denied reports that it discriminated against Nigerians. Recall that the Federal Competition and Consum...

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Corps member dies in Akwa Ibom NYSC camp

<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="450" data-original-width="690" height="260" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEidYcifEfLG9tUdtIbF-dYzL6u7-QUDsZATJFJnYeNJvEdXZFxHbhCWcgOYAe1zcJmxiqPXGBXH_Sbq9pOAlyKRxdZMvtuiYohvVhaVJB8GNQOt1vf_IVgtnELKxPyN80vMy_XTnYRV4Kkn/s400/nysc+jungle+boot.jpg" width="400" /></div> <br /> <br /> A member of the National Youths Service Corps deployed to Akwa Ibom State, Mrs Queen Eziuche, died on Sunday morning at the NYSC Orientation Camp in Ikot Itie Udung in the Nsit Antai Local Government Area of the state.<br /> <br /> Eziuche, who was a Batch B member with call up number:NYSC/ISU/2020/0562, reportedly died in her sleep after the normal morning exercise.<br /> <a name='more' id="more"></a><br /> <br /> The state NYSC Coordinator, Mr Julius Amusan,who confirmed her passing while speaking with our correspondent on Wednesday, said she died from an ailment suspected to be a terminal disease.<br /> <br /> Amusan said, “She did not fall sick, she had an ailment suspected to be a terminal disease which she did not disclose.<br /> <br /> “She came with a report indicating that she was medically fit for the NYSC programme.<br /> <br /> “There was a form she was given to fill in, whether she was suffering from any chronic disease, but it was just on Sunday morning, according to her friends, that she woke up early in the morning for her normal exercise and she came back and slept, but she died in her sleep that morning.”<br /> <br /> Meanwhile, Governor Udom Emmanuel lamented the death of the youth corps member.<br /> <br /> In a condolence message to the deceased’s family and the Director General of the NYSC, the governor expressed shock over the development.<br /> <br /> Emmanuel said,”The sudden exit of Mrs Queen Eziuche has deprived Akwa Ibom State of the contribution she would have made in expanding the layers of our common humanity and also service to her fatherland.”

Latest-News Corps member dies in Akwa Ibom NYSC camp

A member of the National Youths Service Corps deployed to Akwa Ibom State, Mrs Queen Eziuche, died on Sunday morning at the NYSC Orientat...

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