Ologbondiyan needs COVID-19 testing says Princewill - ITREALMS

ITREALMS:
A frontline chieftain of the All Progress Congress (APC), Prince Tonye Princewill has decried the recent call for Governor Buni who is leading the restructuring of APC to resign by the spokesman of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Mr. Kola Ologbondiyan, reports ITREALMS.

According Princewill, the PDP spokesperson in calling for Governor Buni to resign because of the assignment given to him, claiming it is in conflict with the constitution of the APC, is clear evidence that he as a spokesperson needs testing for Coronavirus.

A press statement available to ITREALMS and personally signed by Princewill in reaction to Ologbondiyan’s call for Governor Buni to resign questioned, “could an individual be so jobless as to bother himself with the settled affairs of a ruling party, when the unsettling affairs of his own are so out of order? Assuming the help he requires is not medical, let me help educate him on why this call deserves no serious attention.”

He explained that, “First the interim committee setup by the NEC on the basis of the advice of Mr. President, is based on sound legal footing, as contained in the same constitution to which he refers. In Article 13, section 3 subsection vi, it reads thus: That the National Executive Committee can “create, elect and appoint any Committee it may deem necessary, desirable or expedient and assign to them such powers and functions as it may deem fit and proper.”

Continuing he said, “In subsection iii of the same section we are reminded that: “Decisions of the National Executive Committee shall be binding on all organs and all members of the Party, except the National Convention.”

Text of statement reads: “Any action deemed fit and proper and binding on all organs and all members are terms that he can reflect on. The section he is alluding to, describes tenure of office for office holders because APC has no intention of encouraging people who wish to stay in multiple offices simultaneously, like other parties may do. Our NEC pronouncements do not put us at risk of that.

“Secondly the National convention is about to be summoned, within a set and defined timeframe. They are the only superior organ, not bound by the NEC, who can put forward a different position. My suspicion is even if the spokesperson has Coronavirus, by then he will be fully recovered to witness what they will say.

“Till then, he should find something else to criticize. Something that is more believable. Good governance needs a strong credible opposition and we cannot keep relying on APC to do a better job of criticizing itself than the PDP currently is. The NEC also appointed Buni as the Chairman of the Convention planning committee. A common role given to Governors past and present. Perhaps they should have all resigned as Governors too? This is not opposition. It’s comedy.”

Uboshe Uboshe/Editor

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Edo 2020: Omoragbon emerges NCP flagbearer, asks Edo people to shine their eyes - ITREALMS

ITREALMS:
The governorship candidate of the National Conscience Party (NCP), Pastor Peters Osawaru Omoragbon has warned the people of Edo State to shine their eyes in the forthcoming election and ensure they vote for integrity over politricks, reports ITREALMS.

He gave this charge in Benin City, Edo State while delivering his acceptance speech as the party’s flagbearer in the governorship election tentatively fixed for September this year by the Independence National Electoral Commission (INEC).

The speech entitled “No Retreat, No Surrender,” Pastor Omoragbon recalled that in 2016 the people of Edo State were presented the duo of

Mr Godwin Obaseki of the then APC and Pastor Ize Iyamu of the then PDP.

“In the usual Nigerian politricks, the state resources were pillaged to canvas votes and bribed the electorates for their votes.” he alleged.

Stressing that Edo people are all witnesses to the current show of shame of the two actors in the opposing parties as they continue to recycle themselves from their parties interchangeably.

“What this shows to prove is that, there is no difference between the People’s Democratic Party and the All Progressive Congress in Nigeria. They are two sides of the same coin,” he said.

Pointing out that what cannot be taken away from the two parties and their members in both in and out of government is the pitiable condition they have left the Nigerian state through corrupt practices, maladministration and nepotism.

“Nigeria and indeed Edo State can boast of countless intelligent and resourceful people to choose from both home and abroad. That is why people like us will never cease to present ourselves to you people of Edo State whenever the opportunity calls for it as the best alternative between people of integrity and the Ali Babas and the 40 thieves currently usurping our collective will and wealth to oil their selfish personal political interests as opposed to the growth and development of Edo state,” he said.

Edo people, he said, have a choice between the drama between of the PDP and the APC, wondering “if Edo state does not deserve better?”

Pastor Omoragbon said that its in order to improve the well-being of Edo people that has encouraged him to accept his party nomination and once again present himself as the credible alternative.

Omoragbon, ITREALMS gathered has served the country as a qualified nurse since 1983 till date both in Nigeria and the diaspora and meritoriously retired from the civil service in Nigeria with no blemish.

“… That today, I get my honest monthly pension from the state as a mark of service and not from the stolen common wealth of the state,” he said.

Assuring that though he may not have money to share among godfathers or godmothers in order to buy votes, but trusting in God, he promised to serve Edo people with fear of God, “conscience to honestly serve you as your humble servant with all sincerity of purpose.”

In addition, he pledged that if elected, his administration will be transparent and accountable, maintaining that, “every income of the state that has not been properly utilized by anyone will be accounted for under extant laws in the country.”

Omoragbon further said that NCP is a mass movement and remain the only in Nigeria that candidates do not pay money to pick tickets to contest offices because that is where the corruption starts.

“For, when you purchase a ticket to the tune of millions of Naira, it is an open invitation to embezzlement of the state resources if voted,” he said, maintaining that his plans and programmes for Edo people will be premised on the party’s manifestoe “The Ten Care Programme.”

This include “Food care, Housing Care, Energy care, Transport Care, Health care, Security Care, Employment Care, Education Care, Water Care,” he said.

The governorship candidate, whose impact traverses the Internet industry on the continent, equally applauded the NCP leadership in Edo State led by Comrade Victor Ogba and the Secretary Haruna Perfect as well as the National Chairman, Mallam Yunusa Tanko who was represented at the ceremony by the Acting National General Secretary, Comrade Adebola and all other members of the party nationwide.

Uboshe Uboshe/Editor

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Arson, killing: ALeP beckons on Govs Obiano, Ugwuanyi for urgent mediation - ITREALMS

ITREALMS:
Professionals from Awba-Ofemili have condemned the recent attacks on the town and beckoned on the Executive Governor of Anambra State, Chief Willie Obiano and his Enugu State counterpart, Chief Ifeanyi Ugwuanyi to urgently step in and ensure peaceful resolution, reports ITREALMS.

The body under the aegis of Awba-Ofemili League of Professionals (ALeP) made this call at the weekend after receiving the unfortunate news of clashes between Awba-Ofemili in Anambra State and Ibute-Olo in Enugu State, which led to arson and killing.

According to the National Coordinator of ALeP, Mr. Remmy Nweke, Awba-Ofemili is a border town in Anambra State with common boundary with Ibute-Olo in Enugu State.

ALeP, he said, condemned the recent attacks on indigenes of Awba-Ofemili, mostly farmers at the Ndave Okpu landmass, which led to loss of life and arson that occurred in the town thereafter.

The group also noted that without farming extensively this year of Coronavirus or COVID-19, it may turn out to be famine for the rice and agrarian town of Awba-Ofemili.

“We equally appeal to all groups, youth, farmers and all those affected by the unwanted arson for peace to reign, so as to pave way for the amicable resolution of whatever may be the issues that led to the latest clash and loss of life,” ALeP said in a press statement available to newsmen.

They noted that ALeP in conclusion of its nationwide appeal, fasting and prayer session at the weekend specifically appealed to the two governors of Anambra and Enugu to urgently take charge of the full security architecture of the two sister states and directly get involved to avoid further loss of life and properties.

This, the group said, would douse tensions in the towns and bring culprits to book as well as deter those wanting to capitalize on the crisis at hand to further destabilize the Awba-Ofemili town and by extension the two states.

ALeP equally appealed to those torching peoples property to desist and take to peaceful resolution as peace is the ultimate that must be embraced by all.

The Awba-Ofemili League of Professionals (ALeP), is a group of all conscious, keen and capable professionals from Awba-Ofemili town in Awka-North Local Government Area of Anambra State; championing advocacy for a united front for the development and restoration of the rice-producing, agrarian town and safer society.

Uj. N. Dominic/Editor

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Pix: Governor Willie Obiano of Anambra State and Governor Ifeanyi Ugwuanyi of Enugu State.

Why NCC redeployed 4 directors, Adinde takes over from Nkemadu @DPA - ITREALMS

ITREALMS: 

The leadership of the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) has adduced some reasons why it redeployed some four directors soon after the reappointment of Executive Vice Chairman, Prof. Umar Garba Danbatta by the President, General Muhammadu Buhari, retired, reports ITREALMS.

Insider Commission source, confirmed to ITREALMS the redeployment became imperative to achieve the latest mandate of the NCC, especially as aligned by the Strategic Management Plan (SMP) launched a few days ago, and the four directors resumes in their latest duty post with immediate effect.
ITREALMS gathered that the former Administrator of the Digital Bridge Institute (DBI) and immediate past Consumer Bureau of the Commission, Dr. Ikechukwu Adinde takes over at the Department of Public Affairs and hitherto director, Dr. Henry Nkemadu would be heading the Research and Development.

Our sources equally affirmed that the Director, Compliance Monitoring and Enforcement (CME), Mr Efosa Idehen, would now lead the Consumer Affairs Bureau (CAB) department.

While former Director, Research and Development (R&D), Mr Ephraim Nwokonneya, now leads at the Compliance Monitoring and Enforcement department.

Uboshe Uboshe/Editor

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Pix: Dr. Adinde, new spokesman for NCC

NCC’s Strategic Management Plan debuts, Danbatta assures on implementation - ITREALMS

ITREALMS:

The Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) has unveiled its Strategic Management Plan (SMP), just as the Executive Vice Chairman, Prof. Umar Garba Danbatta assured on effective implementation of the plan, reports ITREALMS.

He also said the SMP is the fulcrum to aid the Commission in driving its telecom regulatory mandate in the fast evolving telecoms industry, in the next five years.

Danbatta pointed out that it will serve as a roadmap for the future of the Nigerian telecoms sector, taking into consideration the current and emerging trends in the industry and the numerous expectations of the diverse stakeholders.

“The Federal Government’s economic diversification plans are focused on a robust digital economy, which will improve employment generation, as well as encourage innovation. This was prime in our minds during the formulation of the SMP. We have invested great time and effort in ensuring that this document is pragmatic, and I am very confident and excited in its completeness to successfully guide the Commission in achieving the set objectives. We are committed to the implementation of this SMP,” the EVC said.

The Honourable Minister of Communications and Digital Economy, Dr. Isa Ali Ibrahim Pantami, has explained that the new Strategic Management Plan (SMP) 2020-2024 by the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) will be a pedestal to drive the implementation of the Federal Government’s digital economy vision.

The Honourable Minister stated this during the virtual launch of the NCC’s five-year strategy plan in Abuja on Tuesday (23/06/2020), which was attended by few invited officials from the Federal Ministry of Communications and Digital Economy, the Nigerian Communications Commission, other sister parastatals under the Ministry as well as critical Stakeholders in the telecoms sector, who joined the launch virtually in compliance with the Federal Government’s directives on social distancing.

According to the Honourable Minister, the launch of the SMP demonstrated the Commission’s serious improvement in performance matrix and its efforts in accelerating the implementation of the National Digital Economy Policy and Strategy (NDEPS) and the National Broadband Plan (NBP) 2020 - 2025 of the Federal Government.

“I feel very excited for the fact that there is a serious improvement in the performance of the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC). The launch of this SMP 2020 - 2024 is a clear indication of that. When a parastatal is performing, it will create an innovative idea on how to be more successful. When a parastatal is not performing, you will not hear anything on how to implement policies and come up with different strategies and plans,” he said.

Pantami stated that despite the enhanced performance of NCC, there is a need for the Commission to redouble its efforts. “We need to challenge and ridicule our previous successes by setting new records through the implementation of this SMP 2020 - 2024. The NCC Management must ensure effective implementation of this SMP,” he said.

The Chairman Senate Committee on Communications, Distinguished Senator Oluremi Tinubu who was represented by Distinguished Senator Obinna Agbo praised the Commission for its exemplary performance and averred that the new SMP 2020 - 2024 would ensure the Commission is on course to deliver on the mandate of the Federal Government for a digital economy. Distinguished Senator Tinubu wished the Commission success in implementing the Plan.

Speaking in the same vein, Deputy Director, Corporate Planning, Strategy and Risk Management, Ms Helen Obi, said the development of the new SMP for the next five years was initiated with the lapse of the previous one and it would help the Commission to effectively harness its internal resources to deliver on expectations of its external stakeholders and the industry as whole.

“Our primary goal in organising the launch, therefore, is to present the finished work to our esteemed stakeholders and solicit your buy-in and support in ensuring that our shared vision and mission of providing best-in-class regulatory services towards achieving a digitized economy is sustainably accomplished,” she added.

In their goodwill messages to the Commission, the Chairman, Association of Licensed Telecom Operators of Nigeria (ALTON), Gbenga Adebayo; President, Association of Telecoms Companies of Nigeria (ATCON), Olusola Teniola and President, National Association of Telecoms Subscribers (NATCOMS), who joined the launch virtually, congratulated the Commission and expressed their view that the SMP 2020 - 2024 will add the needed impetus to the implementation of national digital economy policy of the government.

Chuks Egbune/Editor

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FG unbundles NIPOST into 3 companies - ITREALMS

ITREALMS:

The Federal Government of Nigeria has commenced the unbundling of the Nigerian Postal Service (NIPOST) into three subsidiary companies, reports ITREALMS.

The trio, according to the Bureau of Public Enterprises (BPE), will operate on the principle of commercial viability.

The three subsidiaries, ITREALMS include NIPOST Properties and Development Company; NIPOST Transport and Logistics Company; as well as NIPOST Microfinance Bank Limited.

The Director-General, BPE, Mr. Alex Okoh, confirmed that the ongoing reform of NIPOST was not privatisation of the entity, but an unbundling process, stressing that the core postal service function would remain with NIPOST as the parent company.

Disclosing this at the inauguration of the sub-committee of the implementation committee for the postal sector reform, restructuring and modernisation at the bureau’s office in Abuja.

The clarification, he said, became necessary to disabuse the minds of many Nigerians, especially the workforce of NIPOST that the commercialisation, reform and modernisation of the organisation was outright privatisation.

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Subscribers get allocation @Fairmont Hilltop - ITREALMS

ITREALMS: 

ITREALMS:

In efforts at providing affordable housing to Nigerians, the Propertymart Real Estate Investment Limited has intensified process with the allocation of plots of land to subscribers at Scheme Two of its Fairmont Hilltop Estate, Alagbado, Lagos reports ITREALMS.

Subscribers to the residential scheme, an affordable housing initiative, were full of commendations for the Company as they took possession of their plots at the weekend.

The subscribers, who praised both the scenic hilltop estate and infrastructure already provided by the Company, also hailed the speedy and transparent allocation process.

One of the allottees, Gibson Eze, praised the company, saying “I’m impressed with Propertymart. I like their customer service in particular and I will be recommending this Estate to others because my experience so far has been excellent. Every one of their activities is documented, and since it’s documented, it gives you the room to have trust. Once there is documentation, trust can easily flow.”

Another allottee, Biodun Koleosho, also praised Propertymart for the excellent layout of the Estate and not using the COVID-19 lockdown to delay allocation of plots.

He said, “They have done an excellent job of following up, keeping to their word and that is being able to deliver plots to customers. In terms of documentation, despite the COVID-19 lockdown, they got in touch with me and sent me an e-copy of the contract pending when I could come to the office and sign the hard copy. So, despite the challenges of COVID-19, they are still able to deliver as promised.”

An elated Mrs Abiola Oni also said, “I like the speedy nature of the sale and documentation process. We paid around early February, and here we are in June with our plot. The environment is nice and cool. I am impressed with Propertymart.”

Mrs Lynda Esohe Ugbesi, who stood in for her brother, Lucky Anthony, couldn’t contain her excitement with the serene Estate. She explained that “The environment is conducive and accessible. The terrain is excellent. I can see flooding won’t be an issue. The allocation process is transparent. I’m happy with the way everything has been done. I was even asking if they have more plots available so that I can tell others about the Estate.”

While commending the beautiful location, another allottee, Timothy Oyeniyi, said he had been on the lookout for a beautiful estate to invest in and that Fairmont Hilltop fit the bill perfectly.

He said, “It is secure from the hustle and bustle of the main Ota; it is close to Lagos. You can jump in and out without having to go through the potholes that many people experience in Ota. It’s a serene environment. That’s what I like about the location itself. And the fact that it’s a border town between Ogun and Lagos States.”

Speaking about the Estate and Propertymart’s resolve to provide affordable housing to Nigerians, General Manager, Sales and Marketing, Propertymart, Oluwasegun Damiro said it is committed to helping Nigerians own their homes in a safe and secure environment and at pocket-friendly prices.

He said, “we are for the grassroots and what we want to sell to people, particularly first-time homeowners, is affordability. Inside this Estate, we have some two-bedroom bungalows that we are constructing for people who won’t have time to build and want to save themselves the hassles of buying land and clearing. This is apart from the common land grabbers issue.”

Damiro added that though plots in Schemes One and Two in the Estate have been fully taken, prospective homeowners can take up the exciting promo offers in Scheme Three which run till the end of June.

“Ordinarily, our plot size is 500 Sqm, but we have 400 Sqm, 324 Sqm and 240 Sqm so that you could pay as low as N5 million. It’s all to encourage people. The promo price for 500sqm in Scheme Three is N7.8 million. That’s a discount of about N2 million from what you have in Schemes One and Two,” he said.

Damiro further added that Propertymart, which has been in the real estate business for over 12 years doesn’t just sell land, but a lifestyle to its customer.

He said, “We have allocated over 6,000 homes and serviced plots since inception and we are glad that our customers have faith in us. We don’t just sell land. What we sell is a lifestyle. Before people move in, infrastructure is ready. Street light, roads, electrification, which means that even before you start building, you have a planned Estate where you can start dreaming of where to keep a home—your children, where they are going to play. Where you can get your groceries. What we sell every day is a lifestyle, not just the normal Omo Onile.”

Fairmont Hilltop Estate, Alagbado, is part of the ‘The Fairmont’ serviced plots strategically located in Arepo and Lekki-Ajah. They are not only affordable but also allow clients to live in safe, beautiful environments with well-defined perimeters.

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Pix: Head, Marketing Services, Palton Morgan Holdings, Oluwaseyi Otulana (left), and an allottee, Bosede Otusanya, at the physical allocation of plots of land to subscribers of Fairmont Hilltop Estate, Alagbado, Lagos, recently.

Togo Internet shutdown: Paradigm Initiative applauds ECOWAS Court over ruling - ITREALMS

ITREALMS:

Pan-African social enterprise, the Paradigm Initiative, has applauded the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) Community Court of Justice over a landmark judgement delivered over the Internet shutdown in Togo, reports ITREALMS.

The regional court, ITREALMS gathered, ruled that the restriction on Internet access, which took place from September 5 to 10 and again from September 19 to 21, 2017, was illegal and an affront to the applicants’ right to freedom of expression.

The court ordered the government of Togo to pay two million XAF to the plaintiffs as compensation, and to take all the necessary measures to guarantee the implementation of safeguards with respect to the right to freedom of expression of the Togolese people.

“It is a historic judgement that will send a strong signal to the entire continent, and to ruthless regimes in particular, to rethink the assumed benefits of illegal and abusive network disruptions,” said Emmanuel Vitus, Paradigm Initiative’s Communications Officer.

“The court’s decision has far deeper implications for the future of online freedom in Togo. It’s a huge moment in the country’s recent history and very significant, not just for the plaintiffs, but also for the citizens of Togo.”

Also commenting, Boye Adegoke, Paradigm Initiative’s Senior Program Manager, said, “this decision has again emphasised the role that the court must play to rein in some African governments’ tendency to shut down the Internet towards political ends. Courts cannot afford to be aloof because there are too many cases, across the continent, involving unilateral decisions to shut down the internet by incumbent governments especially around election periods or during protests. We commend the ECOWAS court for this landmark judgement and congratulate the human rights community for this victory.”

ITREALMS recalls that last year, Paradigm Initiative joined Access Now, Association for Progressive Communications (APC), ARTICLE 19, Collaboration on International ICT Policy in East and Southern Africa (CIPESA), the Committee to Protect Journalists (CJP), Internet Freedom Foundation (IFF), the and NetBlocks Group to submit “friends of the court”, or amici curiae brief in the lawsuit filed by local CSOs in Togo.

In the last few years, Togo has used Internet shutdowns and curfews to stifle dissent and enforce law and order. One of the big concerns is the use of social media tools to organize anti-government protests.

The excessive use of force by the security forces and violence has resulted in the deaths of at least 11 people, including children. Over 200 protesters have been arrested during the 2017 protests.

The current President Faure Gnassingbe has led the country of eight million people since taking over, in 2005, following the death of his father, Gnassingbe Eyadema, who ruled with an iron fist for 38 years.

Togo does not have appropriate legislation governing Internet use and freedom, leaving the government and judiciary to apply the existing penal code to online activities individuals have been jailed for up to five years for posting information about government or opposition policy on social media.

The need for legislation around Internet freedom has been raised in the Togolese media. Paradigm Initiative started working with Afrotribune, in 2018, to provide the country with a comprehensive digital rights and freedom bill. Our work towards a rights-respecting online environment in Togo continues, and we welcome this landmark judgement with excitement.

Uboshe Uboshe/Editor
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Pix: President.-Justice-Edward-Amoako-Asante-president of ECOWAS court

Sanwo-Olu: We lost political icon in Ajimobi - ITREALMS

ITREALMS:
The Lagos State Governor, Mr. Babajide Sanwo-Olu has said that Nigeria lost a political icon in death of the former Governor of Oyo State, Senator Isiaka Abiola Ajimobi, reports ITREALMS.

He also described Ajimobi's death as a great loss to his family, the people of Oyo State and the country as a whole.

The Governor added that he is saddened by the loss.

Sanwo-Olu, in a statement, signed by his Chief Press Secretary, Mr. Gboyega Akosile on Thursday, said Ajimobi’s shocking demise, after all efforts by medical professionals to stabilize him, when he took ill, has opened a deep sore in the hearts of millions of Nigerians, who looked up to him as a rallying point and a political stabilizer.

He said: “the passage of Senator Ajimobi hurt me. My heart was filled with grief when I was informed that I had lost another political icon our battle against the coronavirus.”

“Senator Ajimobi was more than just a politician, he was a man of many parts, whose managerial skills and experience are required at this critical period in our national life.”

“Senator Ajimobi was a distinguished Nigerian, who bestrode the economic and political space of the country like a colossus. He made his mark in the corporate world before venturing into politics.

“As first elected Governor to serve two terms in Oyo State, his achievements will remain indelible in the annals of political history of that State and Nigeria as a whole.”

While commiserating with the deceased’s family, Sanwo-Olu urged them to take heart, saying ‘‘the death of loved ones is usually one of the most painful episodes in peoples’ lives but we must realize that death is inevitable. We all will die someday. Therefore we must gather enough strength to carry on.”

“It is with heavy heart that I commiserate with his beloved wife, Mrs Florence Ajimobi, the children and other family members he left behind. My heart and prayers are with you all at this period of your grief. May God comfort you.”

“May Allah grant the soul of late Isiaka Ajimobi eternal rest and preserve a place for him in Aljanah firdaus.” Sanwo-Olu said.

Ayo Midele/Editor

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ISOC says Exchange Points play critical roles on access, connectivity - ITREALMS

ITREALMS:

Latest report published by the Internet Society has explained the steps African countries could take to bring faster and less expensive Internet connectivity to the continent, reports ITREALMS.

The report illustrates how better connectivity represents a key opportunity for countries to continue to develop more resilient digital economies.

Entitled “Anchoring the African Internet Ecosystem: Lessons from Kenya and Nigeria’s Internet Exchange Points Growth,” the report reveals how a vibrant Internet ecosystem is critical to bringing faster, and more affordable Internet to Africa.

Internet exchange points (IXPs) are locations where Internet service providers (ISPs) and other network operators meet and exchange Internet traffic. They are a critical piece of technical infrastructure that improves Internet access by keeping Internet traffic local. Without a local IXP, Internet service providers have to use expensive international Internet connectivity to exchange and access content (which is usually hosted abroad). Allowing traffic to remain local results in faster and more affordable Internet access.

The report launched today, gives an update on a study published by the Internet Society in 2012 which examined two of Africa’s more advanced Internet Exchange Points (IXPs) at the time – KIXP in Kenya, and IXPN in Nigeria.

The growth of the IXPs in each country was exponential, as were the cost savings from exchanging traffic locally rather than using expensive international transit. In Kenya, KIXP grew from carrying peak traffic of 1 Gigabit per second (Gbps) in 2012 to 19 Gbps in 2020, with cost savings quadrupling to USD six million per year. In Nigeria, IXPN grew from carrying just 300 Megabits per second (Mbps) to peak traffic of 125 Gbps in 2020, and cost savings increased forty times to USD 40 million per year.

“Kenya and Nigeria are in a better position than ever before to cope with – and contribute to – the digital revolution that COVID-19 has accelerated as the Internet becomes a lifeline for many people. It’s clear Africa is ready to embrace the digital revolution to spur economic development. But reaching this goal will depend on our community of passionate people on the ground, policymakers, regulators and businesses embracing IXPs and working in collaboration to create these essential local traffic anchors,” explains Michuki Mwangi, Senior Director of Internet Technology and Development for the Internet Society.

The rapid pace of Internet development in both Kenya and Nigeria underscores the critical role that IXPs and the accompanying infrastructure play in the establishment of strong and sustainable Internet ecosystems.

The achievement is a significant step towards the vision set by the peering community in Africa 10 years ago: for 80 percent of African Internet traffic to be local.

Among the reasons cited in the report for Kenya and Nigeria’s progress, is that the governments in both countries adopted policies that made it easier for an Internet ecosystem to thrive. Both governments not only made it easier for different service providers to develop sub-marine cables, but they also adopted data protection regulations that spurred confidence and attracted international service providers.

Both countries count on the Internet to develop their service economies, that thrive on financial, trade and professional services. Kenya for example, is a 40 percent service economy with many essential government services having moved online.

Nenye Dom/Editor

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Buhari backs Giadom in Fight for APC’s Leadership - ITREALMS

Commentary@ITREALMS:

In a surprise move, Nigeria’s president Muhammadu Buhari has announced that he will attend a meeting to be convened tomorrow by Victor Giadom, one of the two men laying claim to the leadership of the All Progressives’ Congress (APC), which controls the presidency and both houses of parliament.

In a series of Tweets, the president’s spokesperson Garba Shehu said that: “The president has received very convincing advice on the position of the law as far as the situation in the party is concerned and has determined that the law is on the side of Victor Giadom as Acting National Chairman. And because he will always act in accordance with the law, the President will be attending the virtual meeting called for tomorrow afternoon.

“We urge the media to stop promoting manufactured controversies and to not give any further room for mischievous interpretations of the law on this matter.

“In addition to the president, the Giadom meeting will hopefully, be attended by our governors and leaders of the National Assembly.”

A former Commissioner of Works in the Southern oil-rich state of Rivers, Mr Giadom is a political disciple of the Minister of Transport Chibuike Amaechi, himself a former two-time governor famed for being a vocal maverick.

There has been a growing rift between the factions within the All Progressives Congress (APC) since a Court of Appeal announced the suspension of the APC’s erstwhile chairman Adams Oshiomhole, a combative ex-unionist and former governor of Edo, who has presided over a tumultuous state of affairs at the party.

Mr Oshiomhole, perceived by critics to be a pugilistic politician who shuns consensus-building, has been locked in a fierce battle with a group of governors, who oppose his style and are perceived to be hell bent on neutralizing him.

Mr Oshiomhole’s opponents say that he has repeatedly flouted the party’s guidelines by refusing to convene meetings of the party’s National Executive Committee, paying bloated salaries to members of the National Working Committee, and appointing unelected officers into the party’s National Working Committee. Party insiders say that the president’s surprising show of support for Mr Giadom means that Oshiomhole is almost certainly going to be expelled from the party’s National Working Committee.

After Mr Oshiomhole’s shock ouster by a Federal Appeal court a few weeks ago, the party’s National Working Committee NWC endorsed the appointment of a former Oyo governor Mr Abiola Ajimobi to act in his stead. This was resisted by Mr Giadom who relied on an earlier court judgement to declare himself the party’s acting National Chairman.

Mr Ajimobi is gravely ill and while most observers saw the NWC’s coronation of Ajimobi as an attempt by Oshiomhole and his allies to run the party by proxy, Giadom’s aggressive push to take over the party jolted the party’s hierarchy who tried, albeit unsuccessfully to expel him from the party through court judgements in his home state of Rivers.

The impasse effectively led to a schism, and a proxy battle between the chairman of the Nigerian Governors’ Forum Kayode Fayemi, transport minister Chibuike Rotimi Amaechi, aviation minister Hadi Sirika, Kaduna’s governor Nasir el-Rufai and the Tinubu/Oshiomhole faction of the party. A scrum of governors, upset at the manner in which one of their colleagues the governor of Edo state Godwin Obaseki was humiliated out of the party by his predecessor Mr Oshiomhole, his estranged predecessor, also joined the anti-Oshiomhole camp.

Since Ajimobi was critically ill, after reportedly contracting the COVID-19 coronavirus the party’s executive committee settled on Hilliard Eta, a little known Cross River politician, who is believed to owe fealty to Mr Oshiomhole. However, Mr Giadom refused to budge, using the courts and the law enforcement authorities to continue in his disputed role as the APC’s acting National Chairman. And while acknowledging that this was a temporary position, Mr Giadom has repeatedly said that he will only accept decisions taken by the party’s larger decision-making organ, the National Executive Committee. Only one member of the party’s NWC, Salisu Mohammed, the APC’s National Vice-Chairman (North-East), himself an avowed critic of Mr Oshiomhole, had supported Mr Giadom.

Mr Buhari’s public declaration of support for Mr Giadom has suddenly changed the APC’s internal dynamics. While the president is perceived as not being a natural politician, no party member would want to publicly challenge the president or oppose his choice of party chief.


Eze Chukwuemeka Eze, an APC leader in Rivers and a supporter of Mr Giadom praised the president for taking a position on the contentious leadership tussle. He said that the APC's NEC should confirm Giadom as the National Chairman while it works towards organising a new executive for the party. He asked party members to sheathe their swords and coalesce around Mr Giadom to strengthen the party.

Giadom’s ascendancy also poses a problem to the APC’s governorship candidate in Edo state Mr Osagie Ize-Iyamu. Mr Iyamu is backed by Mr Oshiomhole who had ensured that his former enemy-turned protege had a clear path to the party’s nomination in Edo. Mr Ize-Iyamu now finds himself in a bit of a quandary since Giadom had publicly rejected the party primaries that led to Mr Ize-Iyamu’s coronation, raising questions about their legality.

Analysts believe that Ekiti’s Governor Dr Kayode Fayemi, the cerebral head of the Nigerian Governorship Forum and Mallam Nasir el-Rufai, one of the president’s most vociferous supporters are the arrowheads of a larger group of powerful governors that counts Jigawa’s Badaru, Kebbi’s Bagudu and Ondo’s Akeredolu as members. The group, which includes other less-visible members, is said to be wary of Mr Oshiomhole’s combative style and his unwavering loyalty to the party’s “National Leader” Ahmed Bola Tinubu, a former governor of Lagos, who is one of Nigeria’s most polarizing svengalis.

Mr Tinubu, one of the most powerful men in Nigerian politics, is widely believed to be eyeing the presidency in 2023 and a formidable coalition of politicians and intellectuals has been trying to stop him. The word in political circles is that powerful Northern dynasts do not want a Tinubu presidency.

President Buhari’s decision to back the faction of the party opposed to former Chairman Adams Oshiomhole and his benefactor Ahmed Bola Tinubu, has effectively altered the balance of power within the APC and suggests that a clearer picture is emerging in the battle for the presidency in 2023.




*Contributed by Chubi Eze




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APC Caretaker Committee @ glance - ITREALMS

ITREALMS:

On Thursday, at its virtual meeting, the National Executive Committee (NEC) of the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) appointed a 13-member National Caretaker Committee to run the party.

This followed the dissolution of the National Working Committee (NWC) led by Adams Oshiomhole.

Below are the profiles of some of the National Caretaker Committee members.

Mai Mala Buni: He will serve as the chairman of the Committee: Mr Buni is the current governor of Yobe State.

He had served as national secretary of the party before his election as governor in the 2019 general elections.

Mr Buni, 52, served as Chairman of the ANPP in Yobe State and thereafter as the special adviser to former Governor Ibrahim Gaidam on political and legislative matters.

John James Akpanudoedehe: He will serve as the secretary of the NCC. Mr Akpanudoedehe is a former senator for Akwa Ibom North East (1999-2003) on the platform of the PDP and a former Minister of State for FCT in the administration of late President Umaru YarÁdua.

Before then, he served as Chairman of Uyo LGA. He also served as the Chairman of Godswill Akpabio Campaign Organisation in 2006/2007.

Mr Akpanudoedehe, 57, was a governorship candidate of ACN in 2011 and later an aspirant on APC platform in 2014 and 2019.

Mr Akpanudoedehe holds first and a second degree in Sociology and Anthropology from the University of Calabar.

Chief Ken Nnamani: Chief Nnamani is the representative of the South-East geopolitical zone in the NCC.

He was Senate President between 2005 and 2007 during which the upper legislative chamber achieved some level of independence.

Under his senate presidency, the famous third term allegedly sought by former President Olusegun Obasanjo was defeated.

Chief Nnamani, 72, who represented Enugu East Senatorial District, served as Chairman, Senate Committee on Federal Character and Governmental Affairs, as well as a member of committees of privatisation, FCT and Finance.

Although still a member of the PDP on whose platform he was elected a senator, in October 2016, Mr Nnamani was appointed the Chairman of the 24-member Constitution and Electoral Reform Committee by the APC federal administration. The committee submitted its report in May 2017.

In January 2017, he resigned his membership of the PDP on whose platform he was elected senator and joined the APC.

David Lyon: He represents the South-South geo-political zone. Mr Lyon was the governorship candidate of the APC in Bayelsa State in the November 18, 2019 election. He was declared winner of the election but was disqualified by the Supreme Court a day before his inauguration on grounds that his running mate, Degi Eremienyo Wangaga, submitted a fake certificate to INEC.

Born in December 1970, Mr Lyon joined politics in the Third Republic as a member of the defunct National Republican Convention (NRC). He once served as a councillor in Southern Ijaw LGA and later joined the PDP when the current democratic dispensation began in 1999.

Mr Lyon however defected to the APC in 2015 and emerged as the party’s governorship candidate in 2019.

Governor Isiaka Oyetola: He will represent the South West zone in the committee. Mr Oyetola is the governor of Osun State. He assumed office in 2019 having won the September 22, 2018 governorship election on APC ticket.

Before he became governor, Mr Oyetola, 65, served as the Chief of Staff to his predecessor, Rauf Aregbesola.

Governor Sani Bello: The Niger State governor is the representative of the North-Central zone in the committee.

He was first elected as governor in 2015 and was re-elected in 2019 on the platform of the APC.

Born in November 1967, Mr Bello, holds a degree in Economics from the University of Maiduguri. He is the eldest child of a former military governor of the old Kano State, Sani Bello, a retired colonel.

Tahir Mamman: A professor of law and Senior Advocate of Nigeria, Mr Mamman will represent the North East Geo-political zone in the NCC.

He was the Director General of the Nigerian Law School for eight years. Before then he served as deputy director of the Kano campus of the Nigeria Law School from 2001 to 2005.

He is currently the Vice Chancellor of Baze University in Abuja.

The 66-year old Mamman, hails from Adamawa State, contested for the APC governorship primary in December 2014 but lost to Mohammed Bindow, who later became the governor.

Abubakar Yusuf: Mr Yusuf will represent the Senate in the committee. He is a two-term member representing Taraba Central Senatorial District. He is the Vice Chairman of the Senate Committee on Cooperation and Integration in Africa and NEPAD.

Born in December 1956, Mr Yusuf holds a degree in Economics from Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria and a master’s degree from East Anglia University.

Akinremi Olaide: Mr Olaide is the representative of the House of Representatives in the committee. Mr Olaide, 48, represents Ibadan North Federal Constituency of Oyo State.

Stella Okorete: Mrs Okotete, who hails from Delta State, is to represent women in the NCC. She is the Executive Director (Business Development) of Nigerian-Export Bank (NEXIM).

She graduated in International Relations and Diplomacy from Benson Idahosa University and holds a Diploma in Law from the Rivers State University of Science and Technology.

Until her appointment as NEXIM executive director, Mrs Okotete had served as the Special Assistant and Adviser to the Delta State Governor on Millennium Development Goals (MDG).

In 2018, she served as a member of the 21-member APC National Convention Committee led by former Governor Abiola Ajimobi. In 2019, she also served as a member of the Contact and Mobilisation Committee of the Campaign Committee set up by Aisha Buhari for her husband’s re-election. She was later to serve that same year as a member of the APC Screening Committee for the Kogi Governorship election in 2019.

James Lalu: He represents the physically challenged in the committee. He hails from Plateau State.

Mr Lalu served as senior special assistant to former Governor Jonah Jang for eight years. He also served as a member of the Board of Plateau State Disability Rights Commission. Mr Lalu later emerged the chairman of the Commission following his appointment by Governor Simon Lalong in 2017.

Ismail Ahmed: He will represent the youth in the committee. Mr Ahmed is a lawyer and has served as the interim chairman of the APC Youth Forum (APYF). He was a member of the defunct Congress for Progressive Change (CPC), a party founded by President Muhammadu Buhari.

Abba Ari will represent the North West geo-political zones.

*Contributed by by JasperAzuatalam/Editor

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Satellite TV Gains Popularity in Ghana and Nigeria - ITREALMS

ITREALMS:

Study shows Satellite TV reception increases by 23 per cent in Nigeria and 19 per cent in Ghana in 2019 since the last study, conducted two years ago; SES currently reaches 35 million TV households across the African Continent, reports ITREALMS.

SES, the leader in global content connectivity solutions, has unveiled the results of its annual Satellite Monitor survey, which reveals a steady increase in the penetration of satellite TV across Africa. The study on TV reception also shows an increase in SES reach from 33 million African households in 2018 to 35 million households in 2019.

In Nigeria, the Satellite Monitor results revealed that satellite TV reception was the choice for 11.8 million households in 2019, a 23% increase compared to 2017, and a further 4.7 million in Ghana, up by 19% from 2017. The study also highlighted that High Definition (HD) TV sets are becoming increasingly popular, already present in approximately 50% of Ghanaian and Nigerian TV homes.

Other TV reception modes in Nigeria and Ghana currently include terrestrial, cable and IPTV. According to the latest survey results, satellite TV is steadily gaining popularity as the TV reception mode of choice in both markets, with 70% of TV homes in Ghana and 33% of those in Nigeria opting for satellite in 2019 – an increase from 64% and 27%, respectively, compared to 2017.

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How Abiola Ajimobi, 70, died @First Cardlology Ikoyi - ITREALMS

ITREALMS:

The immediate past governor of Oyo State, Senator Abiola Ajimobi is dead at the age of 70, reports ITREALMS.

He reportedly was knuckled under by hands of COVID-19 on Thursday, June 25, 2020 at First Cardiology Consultants Hospital in Ikoyi, Lagos.

Close source to the demised former governor, showed that Senator Ajimobi died at about 16hours on Thursday, but other sources claimed he died almost seven days ago.

The two-term governor and former senator gave up the ghost after a three weeks strain battle with COVID-19 which led to his being on life support for over two weeks.
ITREALMS recalled that late Senator Ajimobi was the first Oyo governor to have won a second term in office.

In the past week, probably since he was brought to First Cardiology Consultant, it was rumour he had died.

Ajimobi’s demise happened same day with the resolution of the leadership crisis in his party, the All Progressive Congress (APC) by the National Executive Committee virtual meeting today and presided over by the President, General Muhammadu Buhari, retired.
ITREALMS also recalled that Ajimobi became a deputy chairman of the APC in March and was expected to take over from the suspended Adams Oshiomhole as chairman, but could not due to his illness, which left vice chairman South South, Hilliard Etta, to assume that position.

Ajimobi was formerly the Managing Director/Chief Executive Officer of the National Oil and Chemical Marketing Company a subsidiary of Shell Petroleum, Nigeria. He studied both in Nigeria, and the United States.

Nenye Dom with additional reports from NewsExpress

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AFRICMIL demands passage of whistleblower protection law in Nigeria - ITREALMS

ITREALMS:

The African Centre for Media & Information Literacy (AFRICMIL) has called for the passage of a whistleblower protection law in Nigeria, reports ITREALMS.

In a statement available to ITREALMS to mark this year’s World Whistleblowing Day, the organisation noted that Nigeria is playing catch-up with an issue other African countries like Ghana, South Africa and Uganda have formalized.

Since the return to democracy in 1999, there have been several unsuccessful attempts to pass a law for the protection of whistleblowers in Nigeria. In December 2016, the federal government introduced a whistleblower policy, which does not provide a legal framework for the protection of whistleblowers.

Different countries around the world are realizing the importance of whistleblowers who have been described as the “first line of defence against crime, corruption and cover-up.” June 23 every year is celebrated as World Whistleblowing Day to raise public awareness about the important role of whistleblowers in combating corruption.

This year’s celebration is coming on the heels of a global pandemic (COVID-19) that has created a great deal of anxiety and uncertainty for Nigerians. It has also highlighted the importance of accountability and the need for regular and reliable information from public and private institutions and officials.

“It’s for this reason that we need Nigerians to speak up and be listened to if they have concerns about health and safety, fraud or other types of wrongdoing in the public interest in the management of the COVID-19 crisis, said Chido Onumah, Coordinator of AFRICMIL.

“Nigerians need to know the truth about the spread of the disease to respond effectively and help protect their communities. Transparency is vital and never more so than during a pandemic. We encourage all citizens and workers to participate in ensuring our governments, corporate institutions, both public and private, remain accountable during this crisis and beyond.”

We celebrate whistleblowers in the country for their patriotism. They keep us safe and ensure that funds are not diverted when they speak out against fraud, abuse and corruption.

In the last three years, AFRICMIL has been implementing a project tagged Corruption Anonymous, supported by the MacArthur Foundation, which aims to highlight the importance of whistleblowing in the fight against corruption and the need to protect whistle blowers from retaliation.

Uboshe Uboshe/Editor

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Oluomachi: Boy with golden voice to attend SMMM on scholarship - ITREALMS

ITREALMS:

More scholarship is coming the way of the boy with the golden voice, Oluomachi Joseph Opara as the Sons of Mary Mother of Mercy (SMMM), has also offered a full scholarship for secondary school education to him, reports ITREALMS.

This is coming as the Opara family has accepted Oluomachi should attend SMMM.

The Secretary-General, SMMM, Rev. Fr. Goodluck Ajaero, disclosed this ITREALMS, saying that the scholarship is for its Minor Seminary or any of its boarding missionary secondary schools.

He also confirmed that the Opara family has accepted the gesture for him to be trained in their Minor Seminary.

A press statement available to ITREALMS, Rev. Fr. Ajaero said they are ready to help Opara since his initial desire is to become a Catholic priest, which is still subject to due process of proper discernment without prejudice to his musical talent. He noted that since the boy is currently in primary four, the congregation through the support of one of her benefactors will enroll him in a boarding primary school.

As said by Ajaero, this would afford hime to obtain his First School Leaving Certificate before proceeding to secondary school.

“We remain grateful to this donor, who wishes to remain anonymous. Similarly, we appreciate all men and women of goodwill, who have indicated interest to support the young boy to realize his dream of becoming a Catholic priest if it is the will of God, as well as develop his musical talent.

In addition, he urged the government, corporate organizations and good-spirited individuals, to help take off the streets, young and promising talents like Oluomachi by stabilizing the economy and providing them with the means and enabling environment to develop their talents.

Uboshe Uboshe/Editor
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Ojudu misleading story: Fayemi says I had no intention to visit Buhari with Giadom - ITREALMS

ITREALMS:

The Ekiti State government has denied report in the Nation's newspapers that he was in the Villa on Tuesday to see Mr. President, General Muhammadu Buhari retired with embattled chieftain of All Progressive Congress (APC), Chief Giadom, reports ITREALMS.

According to the chief press secretary to Gov. Kayode Fayemi, Mr. Yinka Oyebode, the attention of the general public is being drawn to a misleading publication by the Nation Newspapers online with headline “Fayemi’s failed mission to Villa with Giadom”, published in the online edition of the newspaper on Wednesday, June 24th, 2020.

The falsehood, we gathered reliably, was fabricated by a senior aide of the Presidency and a former Senator, Babafemi Ojudu, and planted in The Nation Newspaper, after it was rejected by some State House Correspondents, who rebuffed the former Senator for the misleading and malicious story.

It is on record that Senator Ojudu, in his desperate bid to rubbish Governor Fayemi, had told his close associates that he would battle Governor Fayemi, who is also the Chairman of the Nigerian Governors’ Forum (NGF) with falsehood and cheap blackmail in his nefarious attempt to destabilize APC in Ekiti State.

While Ojudu has the right to continue to tread the path of perfidy which has been his lifestyle from time immemorial, we least expected the Nation Newspaper, a leading national daily whose motto is “Truth in Defence of Freedom” to buy into such cheap blackmail in form of an unverifiable report, without due regard to the principles of fairness. This is more so that modern technology has made the business of news gathering and editorial checks a lot easier, especially if the mission is about public good.

For the purpose of clarity, it is important to state that the Nation’s report was clearly a misleading one designed to cast aspersion on the person of Governor Fayemi and create an impression that the NGF Chairman is an unwanted visitor at the Villa. The largely unsubstantiated report was filled with bile, childish and unexplainable fury that signified nothing, just like a tale fit only for the tabloids.

We therefore implore the general public to disregard the highly illogical concoction that was served as an exclusive story.

In setting the record straight, we hereby state unequivocally that Governor Fayemi had no plan nor reason to see Mr President on Tuesday late afternoon as maliciously presented in the Nation’s report. The Governor, had earlier seen Mr President at noon in company of three of his colleagues - Governor Abubakar Atiku Bagudu (Kebbi), Governor Simon Lalong (Plateau) and Governor Badaru Abubakar (Jigawa). Also present at that meeting were the Chief of Staff to the President, Prof Ibrahim Gambari and Honourable Attorney General of the Federation, Abubakar Malami.

Governor Fayemi was in the villa later in the afternoon to see the COS and State Chief of Protocol (SCOP).

The Ekiti State Governor was never denied any opportunity to see President Buhari as he did not ask to see the President and neither did he go with Chief Giadom. .

We are aware of surreptitious efforts to demonise and blackmail Governor Fayemi on account of the challenges the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) is undergoing.

We have tried not to join issues with the barrage of falsehood, personality attacks and campaign of calumny against Governor Fayemi on social media in the last two weeks because it is not in Dr Fayemi’s character to engage in unintelligent rabblerousing in the media. As a principled democrat, Dr Fayemi is committed to fighting for the principles of democracy within the political party he laboured with other notable Nigerians to birth. It is normal for political leaders to be in disagreement, but it should not lead to campaigns of calumny based on falsehood.

Governor Fayemi’s position on the APC crisis has been to consistently subsume his views in the position of the Progressives Governors Forum as expressed by the Chairman. He has not spoken on the party crisis in any public forum but continue to urge all members and lovers of the party to exercise restraint and support the leader of the party, President Mohammadu Buhari and other leaders desirous of resolution to give peace a chance.

We implore the Nation Newspaper and other media organisations to be wary of unfounded stories wrapped as “exclusives” by disgruntled elements like the Special Adviser to the President on Political Matters, Mr. Babafemi Ojudu who are now masquerading as news sources.

Ayo Midele/Editor

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Africa expansion: Radisson's new appointments to drive execution of 150 hotels - ITREALMS

ITREALMS:

One of the largest hotel groups in Africa with almost 100 hotels in operation, Radisson Hotel Group has made new appointments to drive expansion of services across the continent, reports ITREALMS.

Radisson Hotel Group, ITREALMS gathered, has the ambition to grow its presence across the continent to over 150 hotels by 2025.

Based in Dubai, Ramsay Rankoussi has been with the company for more than six years and now leads Radisson Hotel Group’s growth in Africa. The appointment reinforces Radisson Hotel Group's confidence that Africa continues to be a region of growth.

With the addition of Daniel Trappler as Senior Director, Development for Sub-Sahara, the company becomes increasingly relevant to owners. He brings a unique set of skills to the investment community. He is one of the few specialists in hotel transactions and capital markets, dedicated to Africa. Trappler’s strong understanding of the region unlocks access to a network of financial institutions which represents the biggest challenge across the continent, in terms of deal structuring and hotel openings.

Radisson Hotel Group’s development and growth strategy in Africa follows a two-fold approach. The first part concentrates on focus countries while the second centers around creating key hubs. By creating a mass city scale development strategy with a focus on key countries and surrounding markets including Morocco, Egypt, Nigeria and South Africa, the group’s ‘hub approach’ ensures synergy among neighboring countries and creates further value for its hotels, in terms of both development and operations. Each member of Radisson Hotel Group’s development team is a leader in this approach because of their geographical proximity as well as their local cultural knowledge and linguistic understanding of each focus market.

Asked about this new vision, Elie Younes, Chief Development Officer for the group says, “Africa has always been at the forefront of our growth journey and we have recently adopted a new tailored strategy across the continent, reflecting the needs of the market and also underlining our ambitions to accelerate our presence in all key cities. I am very pleased with Ramsay’s new role overseeing our development in Africa. Over the last 6 years, Ramsay has proven to be a key asset to our development team, and with the appointment of Daniel, we become increasingly relevant to our owners and investment partners. We look forward to developing our presence even further and contributing to the local community through job creation and additional positive knock-on effects of investment.”

The targeted territories where the group is focused on growing its presence include the Maghreb; West Africa with Senegal and Ivory Coast; Central Africa with Cameroon and the Democratic Republic of Congo; East Africa with Ethiopia, Kenya and Tanzania; and finally, specific countries within the Southern African Development Community such as Angola, Mauritius, Mozambique and Zambia.

Ramsay Rankoussi, the group’s Head of Development for Africa said, “This is a tremendous opportunity to further accelerate our growth in Africa and I am pleased to be surrounded by the best team. We have ensured a geographical alignment in our resources and optimized our response time with deal experts in every market we cover. The addition of Daniel to the team unlocks a new horizon where Radisson Hotel Group will be able to further assist our partners in debt and equity raising, but we will also leverage our complete skillset in addressing cross-regional synergies from financial to construction solutions to ensure we always remain relevant to our owners.

What really sets us apart, is our pragmatic design approach and our transparency throughout the process, in combination with our continuous guidance throughout each phase, including construction and financing. We are always quick to provide answers and support.”





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Polaris disburses billions under Health Sector Loan in 30 days - ITREALMS

ITREALMS:

Polaris Bank in its undisputable support for SMEs in the health sector (Private hospitals, Pharmacies, Retailers, Diagnostic centres, etc…) launched a one stop-solution, in September 2019, and has disbursed billions to support the growth of the Nigerian health sector through tailor-made banking products for businesses in this space. 

This drive was further re-enforced by the CBN N100billion Health sector support fund set aside by the Apex Bank to help cushion the effect of COVID-19 on the nation’s economy and the health sector in particular.

This was made known by the Bank’s Group Head, Products and Market Development, Adebimpe Ihekuna, while commenting on the recently concluded webinar tagged “Managing Health Care Business During and Post-COVID-19".

Eligible participants under the scheme comprise healthcare product manufacturers – pharmaceutical drugs and medical equipment; and healthcare service providers/medical facilities – hospitals/clinics, diagnostic centres/laboratories, fitness and wellness centres, rehabilitation centres, dialysis centres and blood banks. Others include pharmaceutical/medical products distribution and logistics services; and other human healthcare service providers as may be determined by the Central Bank Of Nigeria (CBN) from time to time.

Adebimpe explained that the chunk of the disbursements are under the CBN intervention funds at 5% and up to 10 years loan tenor; as well as direct disbursement from Polaris Bank at a with highly competitive terms and conditions.

She confirmed that healthcare firms/businesses in the value chain who wish to take advantage of the scheme to expand and grow their business, should submit their application at any branch of Polaris Bank or send a mail to: smebusiness@Polarisbanklimited.com to engage a Product Manager for guidance.
Applicants can also visit the Polaris Bank website: www.polarisbanklimited.com for additional details on the CBN N100 billion Health sector support fund and other lines of products.

Polaris Bank is a future-determining Bank committed to the delivery of industry-defining products, and services, across all the sectors of the Nigerian economy.

Ayo Midele/Editor

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Study unveils 'Belief in 5G COVID-19 conspiracy theories linked to violence' - ITREALMS

ITREALMS:

The latest study by the Northumbria University, Newcastle has linked the recent violence on Fifth Generation (5G) and Coronavirus or COVID-19 on belief of conspiracy theories, reports ITREALMS.

Belief in 5G COVID-19 conspiracy theories linked to violence, reveals Northumbria study

ITREALMS gathered that Psychologists at Northumbria University, Newcastle, in the study provided the first scientific evidence of the link between violent behaviour towards the telecommunications sector and 5G COVID-19 conspiracy beliefs.

Also, ITREALMS recalled that attacks on telecoms workers and infrastructure have been reported since the commencement of this pandemic.

According to the study, telecommunications companies, police officials, and media outlets worldwide have suggested that 5G coronavirus conspiracies have sparked a flurry of attacks on telecoms workers and infrastructure since the World Health Organisation (WHO) declare coronavirus as pandemic on January 30, 2020.

The study equally noted that arson attacks and cases of criminal damage to masts, cabling and other telecoms equipment were reported in over a dozen countries across the globe, from various places in Europe, to Canada, America, and New Zealand.

"In April, the BBC’s Newsbeat reported on accounts of harassment and violence, even murder threats, towards telecoms engineers in the UK, due to false theories suggesting that the emergence of the virus is connected to 5G.

"Previous research has shown that conspiracy theories may be linked with violent intentions. To date, however, there have been no studies about why and when conspiracy beliefs may justify – and ignite – violence.

"Now, new research from the Department of Psychology at Northumbria University has addressed these gaps. The paper has been published in the British Journal of Social Psychology online."

Additionally the investigation of the psychological links authored by the duo of Dr Daniel Jolley and Dr Jenny Paterson explored the association between beliefs in 5G COVID-19 conspiracy theories and the justification and willingness to use violence in response to the alleged link between 5G and COVID-19.

ITREALMS gathered that the researchers assessed 601 UK participants’ levels of 5G COVID-19 conspiracy beliefs, ‘state anger’ – which is temporary, short-lasting outbursts of anger, and levels of paranoia. Here, paranoia refers to participants’ belief that there is hostile intent towards them personally – as opposed to the conspiratorial belief that powerful organisations are harming society at large.

Equally, the study indicated that participants were asked questions about whether they thought violence was a justified response to the alleged link between 5G mobile technology and COVID-19. Participants similarly stated how likely they would be to engage in such behaviours.

Further findings, ITREALMS gathered, revealed that belief in 5G COVID-19 conspiracy theories was positively correlated with state anger. In turn, this state anger was associated with a greater justification of violence in response to a supposed connection between 5G mobile technology and COVID-19.

"Alongside this, the results highlighted a greater intent to engage in similar behaviours in the future in those who subscribed to conspiratorial beliefs," the authors said in a university bulletin available to ITREALMS.

They pointed out that all of these associations were strongest for those who reported higher levels of paranoia.

"The psychologists’ research also indicates that these patterns are not specific to 5G conspiratorial beliefs: general conspiracy theorising was linked to justification and willingness to engage in violent behaviour more generally because such theorising was associated with increased state anger. Furthermore, the link between this conspiratorial induced anger was most strongly associated with the justification of violence for participants who were most paranoid."

"Dr Daniel Jolley, a Senior Lecturer in Psychology, said: “Disconcertingly, the consequences of conspiracy theories are significant and wide-ranging. Our novel findings extend our understanding and provide the first empirical link between 5G COVID-19 conspiracy beliefs and violent reactions, alongside uncovering why (anger) and when (paranoia) conspiracy beliefs may justify the use of violence.”

“These findings are notable because of their possible practical implications. As conspiracy beliefs can be resistant to change, our research suggests that targeting the link between anger and violence may be an effective initial approach to mitigate the relationships between conspiracy beliefs, anger and violence”, explained Dr Jenny Paterson, Senior Lecturer in Psychology.

"Northumbria is a research-rich, business-focused, professional university with a global reputation for academic excellence.


"The research, entitled Pylons ablaze: Examining the role of 5G COVID-19 conspiracy beliefs and support for violence (Daniel Jolley and Jenny L. Paterson, Northumbria University) is published in the British Journal of Social Psychology."

Chuks Egbune/DoP

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