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Senate and NUC Advocate for More Universities in Nigeria

By
Tosin Onisuuru
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The Senate and the National Universities Commission (NUC) have called for the establishment of additional universities in Nigeria to meet the increasing demand for tertiary education.

This appeal was made on Monday in Abuja during a public hearing organized by the Senate Committee on Tertiary Institutions and TETFund. At the event, stakeholders expressed their support for the proposed Federal University, Okigwe, in Imo State.

Speaking at the hearing, Senator Muntari Dandutse, Chairman of the Senate Committee on Tertiary Institutions and TETFund, Senator Patrick Ndubueze, sponsor of the Federal University Okigwe Bill, and Mr. Chris Maiyaki, Executive Secretary of the NUC, all emphasized the urgent need for more universities in the country.

Highlighting the challenges, Maiyaki revealed a severe shortfall in Nigeria’s higher education infrastructure.

“There are currently 275 universities, both public and private, to cater to over two million prospective students annually. Unfortunately, only 500,000 to 700,000 gain admission each year, leaving about 1.3 million unable to pursue university education,” he explained.

Maiyaki further compared Nigeria’s figures to other nations, noting, “While Nigeria, with a population of 200 million, has just 275 universities, Indonesia, with a similar population, boasts around 2,000 universities. Countries like Russia, Brazil, and India have hundreds of thousands of higher institutions.”

To bridge this gap, Maiyaki assured stakeholders that the NUC is working on expanding regulatory frameworks and building capacity to support the establishment of more universities.

Senator Dandutse highlighted the potential benefits of the proposed Federal University, Okigwe. He stated, “This institution will significantly improve access to university education for Nigerians, particularly in Imo State, while also contributing to national educational development.”

Senator Ndubueze also emphasized the transformative potential of the university for Okigwe, a town that he described as long deprived of federal recognition and development.

“Okigwe is the only province from the colonial era without federal presence or state capital status,” he remarked, noting the establishment of the university would address this historical oversight.

Nigeria Seeks South Africa’s Backing for G20, BRICS Membership

By
Tosin Onisuuru
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Nigeria has formally requested South Africa’s support in its bid to secure full membership in the G20, BRICS, and the BRICS New Development Bank. The appeal was made on Monday by the Minister of State for Foreign Affairs, Bianca Odumegwu-Ojukwu, during the ministerial session of the 11th Nigeria-South Africa Bi-National Commission (BNC) in Cape Town.

In addition to seeking membership, Nigeria aims to assume leadership roles in thematic discussions under South Africa’s G20 presidency. South Africa recently took over the presidency of the G20—a coalition of the world’s leading economies—on December 1. As a key member of the expanded BRICS bloc, South Africa is part of a group that contributes approximately 37% of the global GDP and is a driving force behind global economic growth.

Odumegwu-Ojukwu also called on South Africa to support Nigeria’s efforts to mediate peace in Sudan. She highlighted President Bola Tinubu’s involvement in the African Union’s ad hoc mediation committee and his commitment to resolving the crisis to promote regional stability.

“We are deeply committed to resolving the Sudan crisis,” Odumegwu-Ojukwu said. “In this regard, we request South Africa’s backing to expedite the peace process and reduce regional conflicts. With peace, we can achieve progress and development in all spheres.”

She also commended officials from both nations for drafting a communique and addressing issues raised during the BNC session. The finalized communique will be presented to President Tinubu and South African President Cyril Ramaphosa during the presidential session of the BNC on Tuesday.

South Africa’s Minister of International Relations and Cooperation, Dr. Roland Lamola, acknowledged Nigeria’s requests and affirmed South Africa’s commitment to amplifying Africa’s voice during its G20 presidency.

“We will rely on Nigeria’s wisdom as we undertake this significant responsibility,” Lamola said. He also emphasized the importance of strengthening bilateral relations to improve the lives of citizens in both nations.

Key areas of collaboration discussed at the BNC session included trade, investment, tourism, health, education, agriculture, ICT, artificial intelligence, arts and culture, climate change, defense, and security. Lamola stressed the need to expedite pending agreements under the BNC framework to enhance bilateral cooperation.

Earlier, Odumegwu-Ojukwu expressed Nigeria’s commitment to deepening its partnership with South Africa in infrastructure development and capacity building, especially in the mining sector. She announced Nigeria’s proposal of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) for collaboration on certifying Nigerian mining geologists and professionals to boost their global competitiveness.

“Nigeria is ready to explore new areas of cooperation with South Africa,” she noted. “This includes co-financing infrastructure projects that benefit both economies and building capacity for our mining professionals to meet global standards.”

The ministerial meeting paves the way for high-level discussions between Presidents Tinubu and Ramaphosa, where pivotal agreements and initiatives to strengthen the strategic partnership between the two nations will be unveiled.

Floods Slow Spain’s Manufacturing Growth

By
Tosin Onisuuru
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Spain’s manufacturing sector experienced slower growth in November, impacted by devastating floods in Valencia, a key eastern coastal region, according to a survey released on Monday. Despite this setback, confidence in future expansion remains high.

The HCOB Spain Manufacturing Purchasing Managers’ Index (PMI), compiled by S&P Global, dipped to 53.1 in November from 54.5 in October. While this marks a slowdown, the index has remained above the 50.0 growth threshold for ten consecutive months.

The decline was partially attributed to the historic floods on October 29 and 30, which claimed over 200 lives—the deadliest in modern Spanish history.

Despite these challenges, manufacturing output and new orders continued to grow, driven by strong export demand, particularly from neighboring European countries. New export orders rose at their fastest pace since September 2021.

“The Spanish manufacturing sector maintained its expansion in November, albeit at a slower rate, even amid the tragic floods in Valencia,” said Jonas Feldhusen, Junior Economist at Hamburg Commercial Bank, in S&P Global’s monthly report.

Employment in the sector increased for the third straight month, fueled by higher workloads and production needs. Input cost inflation edged higher but remained modest, with companies citing rising raw material prices, especially for metals. However, competitive pressures led to a slight drop in output charges for the third consecutive month.

Business confidence reached its highest level since May, reflecting optimism about a stable global economic outlook and positive outcomes from planned commercial initiatives.

The November PMI data indicate that the robust economic growth seen in the third quarter likely carried over into the fourth. Spain’s statistics agency reported that the economy grew by a stronger-than-expected 0.8% in Q3, outpacing the euro zone’s 0.4% average, with annual growth hitting 3.4%. The government has also revised its 2024 growth forecast upward to 2.7%.

Oil Prices Surge as Strong China Data Boosts Demand, Middle East Tensions Escalate

By
Tosin Onisuuru
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0

Oil prices climbed over 1% on Monday, driven by robust factory activity in China— the world’s second-largest oil consumer—and renewed unrest in the Middle East, where Israel resumed strikes on Lebanon despite a ceasefire agreement.

By 1203 GMT, Brent crude futures rose by 84 cents (1.17%), reaching $72.68 per barrel, while U.S. West Texas Intermediate crude gained 79 cents (1.16%) to settle at $68.79 per barrel.

“The stronger-than-expected economic data from China is alleviating previous concerns about weakened demand from the region,” noted Giovanni Staunovo, an analyst at UBS. He further explained that recent stimulus measures are starting to enhance economic activity, likely bolstering China’s oil consumption in the months ahead.

A private survey revealed China’s factory activity in November expanded at its fastest pace in five months, raising optimism among Chinese firms even as U.S. President-elect Donald Trump intensified trade-related rhetoric.

Meanwhile, the fragile ceasefire between Israel and Lebanon remains under scrutiny. Tensions escalated as both nations accused each other of violating the truce. The Lebanese health ministry reported casualties from two Israeli strikes in southern Lebanon, while Syria experienced intensified airstrikes as President Bashar al-Assad vowed to crush insurgents in Aleppo.

Last week, oil benchmarks faced declines of over 3% due to reduced supply concerns surrounding the Israel-Hezbollah conflict and anticipated surpluses for 2025. These pressures outweighed expectations of continued output cuts.

OPEC+ (the Organization of the Petroleum Exporting Countries and its allies) has postponed its meeting to December 5 and is deliberating a potential delay of the planned production increase initially set for January. George Pavel, General Manager at Naga.com Middle East, emphasized, “A prolonged delay in the production hike could help ease the downward pressure on oil prices.”

Market participants are also awaiting clarity on the implications of both OPEC+ supply policies and the incoming U.S. administration’s stance on energy. “Money managers are cautious, seeking direction on how these factors will shape the market,” said Harry Tchilinguirian, Head of Research at Onyx Capital Group.

A Reuters oil price poll estimates that Brent crude will average $74.53 per barrel in 2025.

Australia Proposes New Law to Fine Big Tech Over Anti-Competitive Practices

By
Tosin Onisuuru
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Australia has introduced a proposed law that could impose fines of up to A$50 million (around $33 million) on major global tech companies found to be stifling competition or hindering consumers from easily switching between digital services.

Announced on Monday, the law targets the growing influence of Big Tech and is part of a broader effort by the centre-left Labor government to regulate the digital economy. This follows the recent passage of a law that bans social media use for children under 16.

The proposed law would grant Australia’s competition regulator the authority to monitor compliance, investigate anti-competitive practices, and impose penalties on companies. In a speech at the McKell Institute in Sydney, Assistant Treasurer Stephen Jones emphasized that the digital economy is outpacing the country’s existing legal framework, allowing dominant platforms to inflate costs, reduce consumer choice, and use deceptive tactics to lock users into their ecosystems. “Innovation outside of the established players becomes almost impossible,” Jones stated.

Major tech firms like Apple, Google, and Meta, which dominate app downloads and digital advertising, have yet to respond to inquiries regarding the proposed legislation.

The consultation period for the law will conclude on February 14, after which further discussions will refine the draft legislation. If passed, the law will resemble the European Union’s Digital Markets Act, aiming to make it easier for consumers to switch between competing services, including social media platforms, web browsers, and app stores.

The Australian government will prioritize platforms that pose the greatest risk to competition, focusing initially on app marketplaces and ad-tech services. Companies would be restricted from promoting their own apps with low user ratings and from offering preferential treatment to their own services over third-party options.

According to a 2022 report from the Australian Competition and Consumer Commission, Google dominates online search in Australia with a market share of 93% to 95%, while Apple’s App Store holds around 60% of app downloads and Google Play Store 40%. Meta’s Facebook and Instagram together account for 79% of social media usage in the country.

Georgia’s President Appeals for Europe’s Support Amid Tension with Government

By
Tosin Onisuuru
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Georgia’s President Salome Zourabichvili has called on European nations to stand by her as she clashes with her government over what she sees as a growing Russian influence in her country. Speaking on Monday, Zourabichvili, locked in a standoff with the ruling Georgian Dream party, highlighted the country’s struggles as it faces increasing pressure from Moscow.

Her comments came after several nights of protests and police confrontations, sparked by the government’s recent suspension of talks to join the European Union. Many critics view this move as evidence of Georgia shifting away from its pro-Western stance and towards Moscow, although the ruling party denies such claims.

“We want our European future back,” said Zourabichvili, emphasizing the national discontent. Despite holding a largely ceremonial role, she has actively engaged with protesters and criticized the government’s direction. “This is the rebellion of an entire nation,” she stated during an interview on France Inter radio.

Zourabichvili accused Russia of waging a “hybrid strategy” against Georgia, as well as against Moldova and NATO and EU member Romania. With tensions in Ukraine already escalating, she stressed that Europe’s moral and political support is crucial for Georgia’s future.

In response, Russian officials, including Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov, have denied any interference in Georgia’s internal affairs, drawing parallels to Ukraine’s 2014 Maidan Revolution. Meanwhile, former Russian President Dmitry Medvedev warned that Georgia risks following Ukraine’s path, which he called a dangerous descent into chaos.

The U.S. and the EU have raised concerns about Georgia’s democratic backsliding, with recent actions by the Georgian government, including a “foreign agents” law and restrictions on LGBT rights, further intensifying fears of a shift away from democratic values. The Georgian government, on the other hand, argues that such measures are necessary to protect the nation from foreign interference and avoid a war with Russia.

Prime Minister Irakli Kobakhidze has accused opposition forces of orchestrating violence with the intent to destabilize the government and overthrow the constitutional order.

Rhapsody Of Realities: Five Things You Should Know About The Most Republished Book In The World

By
Tosin Onisuuru
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Rhapsody of Realities is not just a daily devotional; it is a global phenomenon that has touched millions of lives worldwide. Published by Christ Embassy, the book has become one of the most impactful Christian literature pieces in modern times, earning the title of the most republished book in the world.

Here are five important things you should know about Rhapsody of Realities and why it continues to have an unparalleled global reach.

Translated Into Over 7,000 Languages

One of the most remarkable aspects of Rhapsody of Realities is its incredible linguistic diversity. The book has been translated into over 7,000 languages, a feat that is unmatched by any other Christian publication. This wide-ranging translation effort ensures that believers from every corner of the world, regardless of language or culture, have access to the transformative teachings within its pages.

The global reach of Rhapsody of Realities is not just a testament to its popularity but to the vision behind Christ Embassy’s mission to spread the Word of God to every nation and people group. By being available in so many languages, Rhapsody of Realities breaks down language barriers and brings the gospel message to people who otherwise might never have heard it in their native tongue.

A Devotional With Global Impact

Since its inception in 2001, Rhapsody of Realities has grown into more than just a daily devotional. It has become a spiritual resource that impacts millions of lives every day. With a daily message of faith, inspiration, and encouragement, the devotional provides readers with powerful insights drawn from scripture. It equips believers to face life’s challenges with the promises of God, offering practical guidance on how to live a victorious Christian life.

What sets Rhapsody of Realities apart from other devotionals is its international outreach. Every day, millions of people around the world open its pages to receive a fresh dose of spiritual direction. In countries as diverse as the United States, India, Brazil, and China, Rhapsody of Realities continues to serve as a source of encouragement for people of all ages and backgrounds.

A Tool for Evangelism and Soul-Winning

One of the unique aspects of Rhapsody of Realities is its use as an evangelistic tool. Christ Embassy has invested heavily in ensuring that the book reaches as many people as possible, particularly in areas where Christianity is less established. Through strategic distribution initiatives, Rhapsody of Realities is freely distributed to thousands of people each month, helping them encounter the message of the gospel.

Rhapsody of Realities serves as an entry point for many who are curious about the Christian faith. Many believers have used the devotional to reach their friends, neighbors, and colleagues, sharing the love of Christ in a practical and non-confrontational way. It’s not just a devotional; it’s a bridge for evangelism, introducing people to the power of God’s Word and leading them to salvation.

The Vision Behind the Book

Pastor Chris Oyakhilome, the visionary founder of Christ Embassy, Rhapsody of Realities reflects his deep commitment to spreading the gospel globally. Pastor Chris’s passion for media and communication led to the creation of this daily devotional as a way to reach people with the teachings of the Bible in a simple, accessible format.

Pastor Chris has often said that Rhapsody of Realities is more than just a book; it’s a movement. Through its distribution, millions of people have come to understand the power of God’s Word and the importance of daily meditation on the scriptures. His vision to use media for global evangelism has resulted in an unparalleled reach, with Rhapsody of Realities becoming a key tool for Christian outreach worldwide.

The Power of Confessions and Declarations

A distinctive feature of Rhapsody of Realities is its emphasis on the power of confessions and declarations. Each devotional contains a “Rhapsody Confession,” a declaration of faith based on the scriptures. These confessions are designed to empower believers to speak God’s Word over their lives, activating the promises and blessings that come through faith.

This focus on confession is rooted in the biblical teaching that life and death are in the power of the tongue (Proverbs 18:21). Rhapsody of Realities encourages readers to boldly declare the Word of God daily, thereby shaping their circumstances and walking in the fullness of God’s promises. For many believers, these declarations have become a vital part of their spiritual practice, helping them to stay grounded in faith and overcome life’s challenges.

Rhapsody of Realities has truly earned its place as the most republished book in the world. With over 7,000 translations, it reaches people in nearly every corner of the globe, delivering life-changing messages of faith and encouragement. Through its daily devotions, powerful confessions, and role in global evangelism, it continues to impact lives and bring millions into a deeper relationship with Christ.

The success of Rhapsody of Realities is not just about its global reach but also the vision behind it, a vision to spread the gospel to every nation, every tribe, and every tongue. As the book continues to transform lives and empower believers, it stands as a testament to the power of media in advancing God’s Kingdom and the enduring message of hope, faith, and salvation.

President Tinubu Departs France for South Africa

By
Tosin Onisuuru
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0

President Bola Tinubu is set to depart France on Monday, December 2, 2024, for Cape Town, South Africa. The President will co-chair the 11th session of the Nigeria-South Africa Bi-National Commission (BNC) alongside South African President Cyril Ramaphosa.

According to a statement issued on Sunday by Tinubu’s Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Mr. Bayo Onanuga, the presidential session of the BNC is scheduled for Tuesday, December 3. A ministerial meeting will precede this event on Monday, December 2, at the South African Parliament Building in Cape Town.

The two leaders will engage in comprehensive discussions on key issues of mutual interest, covering bilateral, regional, and international matters. The meeting will build on commitments made during their previous engagement on June 20, 2024, in Johannesburg, shortly after President Ramaphosa began his second term. They will also evaluate progress achieved since the 10th session of the BNC, held in Abuja from November 29 to December 1, 2021.

This year’s BNC will feature deliberations across eight working groups focusing on political consultations, consular and migration issues, banking and finance, defense and security, manufacturing, social sector initiatives, mines and energy, as well as trade and investments. The meeting will also see the signing of multiple Memoranda of Understanding and agreements between officials of both nations.

Established in 1999, the Nigeria-South Africa Bi-National Commission aims to strengthen cooperation and friendship between the two countries. The first session at the Heads of State level took place in October 2019 in Pretoria. This year’s meeting holds additional significance as it marks the Commission’s 25th anniversary, symbolizing a quarter-century of robust bilateral relations.

President Tinubu’s delegation will include state governors, ministers, and senior government officials. This will be his second trip to South Africa in 2024 and his 33rd international trip since assuming office 18 months ago.

So far, President Tinubu has spent 135 days abroad, visiting 17 countries and logging approximately 285 flight hours. Countries visited include France (five times), the United Kingdom (four times), the United States, Brazil, Saudi Arabia (twice), and South Africa, among others.

After the BNC meeting, the President is expected to return to Nigeria.

ReachOut World Day: The Church’s Role in Nation Building

By
Tosin Onisuuru
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0

ReachOut World Day is a global initiative that underscores the Church’s commitment to impacting societies positively. This annual event highlights the role of Christ Embassy in nation-building, using tools like the Rhapsody of Realities, the most translated book in the world, to spread hope and inspire change.

Expectations and Contributions of the Church in Nation stilling principles like integrity, accountability, and compassion that are essential for societal growth.

Community Development
Through various outreach programs, the Church addresses critical issues such as education, healthcare, and poverty alleviation, bridging gaps in governmental efforts.

Advocacy for Social Justice
Churches often champion justice, equality, and inclusivity, fostering unity and peaceful coexistence in diverse societies.

Youth Empowerment
Faith-based organizations run initiatives that equip young people with life skills, leadership training, and spiritual guidance, preparing them to be responsible citizens and leaders.

Rhapsody of Realities: The Most Translated Book in the World

Global Reach
Rhapsody of Realities has been translated into over 7,000 languages, making it accessible to people from diverse cultural and linguistic backgrounds.

Transformational Impact
This devotional has been a beacon of hope and guidance for millions worldwide, shaping lives and fostering spiritual growth.

Tool for Evangelism
Widely distributed during events like ReachOut World Day, the devotional serves as a medium for spreading the message of Christ and empowering communities globally.

Fundamental Points for ReachOut World Day

Vision and Purpose
ReachOut World Day is a call to action for Christians to actively engage in nation-building through service, advocacy, and evangelism.

Mobilizing Faith Communities
Christ Embassy Churches and members worldwide unite to distribute Rhapsody of Realities and share the Gospel, emphasizing the power of collective efforts.

Sustainable Impact
The day focuses on long-term contributions, encouraging initiatives that address pressing societal challenges and promote holistic development.

Celebrating Progress
ReachOut World Day is also a time to reflect on the milestones achieved through the Church’s efforts in transforming lives and shaping societies.

ReachOut World Day showcases the indispensable role of the Church in nation-building, leveraging initiatives like Rhapsody of Realities to inspire change and foster unity. As faith communities worldwide mobilize for this cause, the vision of a more equitable and prosperous society becomes increasingly attainable.

New Minimum Wage: Labour Declares Strike in FCT and Five Other States

By
Tosin Onisuuru
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0

Workers in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Cross River, Nasarawa, Ebonyi, Kaduna, and Zamfara states are set to commence strike action today due to unresolved negotiations over the implementation of the ₦70,000 minimum wage.

Despite efforts by state-constituted panels to engage labor leaders, chapters of the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) in the affected areas have affirmed their readiness to down tools. The FCT Council of the NLC had earlier directed workers in its six Area Councils to embark on an indefinite strike from December 1, 2024, as stated in a letter by its chairman, Stephen Knabayi.

This directive aligns with a nationwide order from the NLC for workers in 14 states and the FCT to begin industrial action over non-compliance with the new wage structure. Knabayi criticized the Area Council chairmen for failing to act on the NLC’s November 14, 2024, communique.

In Nasarawa State, NLC Chairman Ismaila Okoh confirmed that workers are prepared to strike unless the state government formalizes its promise to implement a ₦70,500 minimum wage. While the government verbally agreed to the amount, no official documents have been signed.

Kaduna State appears to have made progress, reportedly paying the lowest-paid workers ₦72,000 in November. However, the state’s NLC chapter remains steadfast in its strike plans, citing directives from the national leadership. The state government refuted claims of non-compliance, with Governor Uba Sani’s spokesperson, Ibraheem Musa, affirming that the state adheres to the National Minimum Wage Law.

As tensions rise, labor leaders in the affected states emphasize their commitment to ensuring fair wages for workers, while some state governments continue last-minute efforts to avert the impending shutdown.

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