Man United March On To Wembley After Hard-Fought 4-3 Win Over Liverpool

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March 17, 2024

Amad Diallo scored a late-minute winner to power Man United to a 4-3 win over Liverpool, ensuring the Red Devils’ qualification into the semi-final of the FA Cup.

The Ivorian winger was sent off for a second booking after taking his shirt off in celebration at the end of a chaotic 120 minutes that kept Man United’s chances of ending the season with silverware alive.

Twice Erik ten Hag’s men had to stage late comebacks to reach the last four.

Two goals in three minutes from Alexis Mac Allister and Mohamed Salah towards the end of the first half turned swung the game in Liverpool’s favour after Scott McTominay opened the scoring.

Antony’s first goal at Old Trafford for more than a year kept Man United alive to send the game into extra-time.

Once again Liverpool edged in front when Harvey Elliott’s deflected shot found the bottom corner.

But Marcus Rashford, who had missed a glorious chance to win the tie deep into injury time, made amends by drilling home to make it 3-3.

Diallo then scored just his second ever Man United goal in added time of extra-time at the end of a breakneck counter-attack from a Liverpool corner, led by the impressive Alejandro Garnacho.

Federal Govt Begins Nationwide Mass Metering Project

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Rhoda Onuzulike

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March 17, 2024

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The Nigerian government has begun the mass metering of the Nigerian Army formations nationwide with a promise to end the era of estimated billings in the power sector.

Also the government has begun Flag off of mass metering across Army formations across the federation.

Minister of Power, Adebayo Adelabu disclosed this during the flag off of the metering exercise at the headquarters of the 9th Brigade of the Nigerian Army military cantonment in Ikeja, Lagos State, South-west Nigeria.

According to the Minister, the exercise would be in phases with the Ikeja cantonment being the first phase of the exercise.

FG’s mass metering programme to generate 500,000 jobs, says expert

Adebayo, who stressed that the current exercise will last for six weeks before the second phase begins explained that for the current exercise, the sum of N12.7 billion has been released out of a total of N40billion for the mass metering project.

“The mass metering in army formations nationwide will enable us know what is being consumed on a monthly basis in order to ensure appropriate billings and ease collections. The overall intention is to eliminate and make estimated billing a thing of the past”.

He further stated that the current exercise is part of President Bola Tinubu’s renewed hope agenda to ensure regular supply of electricity to army formations, nationwide, saying the smart meters being installed are tamper-proof and would eliminate energy theft.

“This is one of Mr. President’s objectives as contained in the renewed hope agenda to ensure that electricity supply to the armed forces is prioritised and they do not suffer especially in the enjoyment of public utilities”.

“You can not by- pass the meter which also comes with an app where customers can also get statement of their consumption on a monthly basis”.

He revealed further that “the meter allows interconnectivity between grid and off grid solar power supply”.

The Minister emphasised that part of the energy blue print for the country is also to build off grid power sources such as Solar energy for military barracks located in remote areas without grid supply.

“and where we have grid supply, we can interchange between the grid and solar supply if we are not satisfied with the number of hours supplied by the Distribution Companies (DISCOs) . Beyond metering, we have to prioritise electricity supply to the barracks”,

“the metering project would be extended to all military formations in the country with the objective of providing 24 hours power supply to the barracks. Adebayo added.

Also, the Chief Executive Officer of De Haryor Global Services, Engineer Ashade Olatunbosun who is in charge of the metering project said the second phase of the project will begin in Abuja and Enugu, States simultaneously, adding that military formations across the 11 DISCOs will benefit from the exercise.

“Army formations in Jos, Abuja, Ibadan, Enugu, Kaduna, Ikeja and Eko distribution companies will benefit from the exercise”, he said.

Earlier, the Commander, Military cantonment in Ikeja, Lagos State, South-west Nigeria, Major, general Adegoke Adetuyi, said the federal government metering initiative is timely as the brigade headquarters has been having epileptic power supply over time.

Transport Ministry Reassures Commitment To Nigerians

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Rhoda Onuzulike

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March 17, 2024

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The Federal Ministry of Transportation has reassured Nigerians of its commitment to discharging its statutory mandate towards the realization of the “Renewed Hope Agenda” of President Bola Tinubu.

The ministry aims to deliver efficient, affordable and sustainable transport infrastructure for the country with utmost diligence and fidelity.

The Federal Ministry of Transportation made this known following emerging comments and commentaries by certain persons on social media concerning the status and implications of the Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) signed on 12th February, 2024 by the Minister of Transportation, Senator Said Alkali on behalf of the Ministry with Messrs. MPH Rail Development (UK) Limited, a United Kingdom-registered company with Nigerian and foreign shareholding.

Nigeria’s Transportation Sector: Recent Developments And Opportunities

The director press Ministry of Transportation, Olujimi Oyetomi , said for clarity, a memorandum of understanding (MOU) is a non-binding agreement that states each party’s intentions to take action, conduct a business transaction, or form a new partnership. It is not a legally binding agreement. It provides only a platform for further engagement, discussion, scrutiny, and the provision of required guarantees by the parties to reach an agreement if the parties are satisfied.

Oyetomi said the MoU in question arose from an unsolicited proposal presented by the British African Business Alliance (BABA), an Association based in the United Kingdom with interest in business in Africa. “Its proposal was initially submitted to the Ministry on 27th August, 2019. As required, the proposal (Outline Business Case) was submitted to the Infrastructure Concession and Regulatory Commission (ICRC) on 8th December, 2023. The major attraction of the proposal is BABA/MPH’s initiative to achieve 100% private sector funding for the project ‘with no loans or debt to the Nigerian Government or any of its agencies’, as captured in Article 3.3 of the MoU.

The Regulatory Commission on 27th December, 2023 granted approval and issued a conditional OBC Certification. It is pertinent to note at this juncture, that COVID-19 was a major contributor to the time lag between initial proposal and the ICRC OBC Certification.”

He said Messrs. MPH Rail Development (UK), is the company incorporated by BABA, as the Special Purpose Vehicle (SPV) to ‘deliver’ the project. It must be emphasized that a Company to be used for such a purpose is usually new with nominal shareholding to allow for stake holding by parties to the project at the investment stage.

Ghana FA Re-Appoints Addo As Head Coach Ahead Friendly Game With Super Eagles

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Emenike Agu

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March 17, 2024

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Ghana FA has re-appointed Otto Addo to lead the Black Stars ahead of international friendly against Super Eagles of Nigeria billed for Marrakech, Morocco.
Addo’s re-appointment was confirmed by the GFA and Bundesliga club Borussia Dortmund.

“Borussia Dortmund and talent coach Otto Addo will part ways in the summer as he embarks on his new role as coach for the Ghanaian national team,” the club said in a statement.
“We wish him nothing but the best as he embraces this exciting new chapter in his career!
“Thank you for everything, Otto!”

Safe Data: NIMC Dismisses Data Breach Allegations

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Rhoda Onuzulike

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March 17, 2024

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The National Identity Management Commission, NIMC, says there is no data breach of any sort, promising Nigerians of safe and secured data in the National identity database.

This comes as the Commission received with concern news from some sections of the media pertaining to an alleged breach of citizens’ data by a private organisation, XpressVerify.

The Head, Corporate Communications, Kayode Adegoke in a statement denied any dealings with XpressVerify saying “it is not one of the Commission’s licensed partners.”

Adegoke said; “the Commission wishes to state that it offers NIN verification and other services through licensed partners.

House Urge NIMC To Enroll, Register Citizens Upon Birth

“We express our gratitude to our media partners and the whistleblowers for bringing this to our attention and wish to assure Nigerians and legal residents that there is no data breach of any sort and the Citizens’ data is safe and secure in Nigeria’s National identity database”

The Director General and Chief Executive Officer of NIMC, Abisoye Coker-Odusote has promptly ordered a comprehensive investigation into the matter to find out if any of the Commission’s Tokenisation verification agents has in any way breach the licensing agreement either directly or through any of their sub-licensees.

Coker-Odusote affirmed the commitment of NIMC to data protection and privacy, promising that no stone will be left unturned in ensuring the safety and security of the data of all enrollees.

‘Top-level security is in place to protect the NIN and other personal data of every citizen and legal resident,” she said.

NIMC reaffirmed its unwavering dedication to safeguarding, securing, and responsibly managing the data entrusted to us.

According to the Commission, “It understands the critical importance of maintaining public trust and confidence in our operations, and we will continue to uphold the highest standards of integrity and accountability.”

African Games 2023: Falconets Battle Uganda For Final Spot

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Emenike Agu

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March 17, 2024

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Holders Nigeria will face Uganda in the semi-finals of the women’s event at the African Games 2023

The Falconets finished top of Group B with six points.

Uganda on the other hand finished second in Group B with five points from three games.

The Falconets have scored six goals in the competition without conceding.

The encounter will be held at the Accra Sports Stadium on Tuesday.

Hosts Ghana will face Senegal in the other semi-finals the same day.

With a place in the final at stake, both matches are expected to be fiercely contested affairs, with teams leaving no stone unturned in their quest to reach the final and clinch the gold medal.

Holders Nigeria will face Uganda in the semi-finals of the women’s event at the African Games 2023The Falconets finished top of Group B with six points.Uganda on the other hand finished second in Group B with five points from three games.The Falconets have scored six goals in the competition without conceding.The encounter will be held at the Accra Sports Stadium on Tuesday.Hosts Ghana will face Senegal in the other semi-finals the same day.With a place in the final at stake, both matches are expected to be fiercely contested affairs, with teams leaving no stone unturned in their quest to reach the final and clinch the gold medal.

Chiamaka Nnadozie Saves 6th Penalty-Kick Of The Season As Paris FC Thrash Guingamp

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Emenike Agu

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March 17, 2024

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Nigerian goalkeeper Chiamaka Nnadozie is turning heads in the French Women’s League with her stellar performances for Paris FC this season.

The 23-year-old Nigeria international, who currently holds the African Goalkeeper of the Year award, showcased her talent once again in Paris FC’s recent match against Guingamp. Nnadozie made a crucial penalty save, her sixth of the season, helping her team secure a convincing 4-0 victory at home.

Nnadozie’s outstanding form extends beyond her penalty heroics. She has kept an impressive five clean sheets across all competitions so far this season, trailing only behind Constance of league leaders Paris Saint-Germain, who has seven shutouts to her name.

With her remarkable shot-stopping abilities and penchant for saving penalties, Nnadozie has quickly become a fan favorite at Paris FC. Her six penalty saves lead the French top flight this season, showcasing her world-class talent.

She is living up to her place as Africa’s best female goalkeeper. Nnadozie continues to justify that honor with her exceptional performances for both club and country. In addition to her contributions to Paris FC, she played a crucial role in Nigeria’s qualification for the final round of the Paris 2024 Olympics qualifiers against South Africa.

With her lightning reflexes, calmness under pressure, and ability to make game-changing saves, Nnadozie is emerging as one of the most promising young goalkeepers in global football.

Looking ahead, Nigeria’s Super Falcons will bank on the Paris FC shotstoppers form as they face South Africa in upcoming Paris Olympic games final qualifying round double-header.

Ndidi, Iheanacho Bow Out Of FA Cup After Chukwuemeka, Noni Madueke Bag Late-Goals For Chelsea

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Emenike Agu

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March 17, 2024

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In Sunday afternoon’s English FA Cup quarter-final clash between Leicester City and Chelsea, at least four players with Nigerian roots were listed. The match saw Leicester’s Wilfred Ndidi and Kelechi Iheanacho face off against Chelsea’s Carney Chukwuemeka and Noni Madueke.

Leicester City bowed out of the FA Cup after Chukwuemeka and Madueke scored late goals to secure a 4-2 victory for Chelsea.

Chelsea survived a thrilling encounter against Leicester City, clinching a dramatic 4-2 victory in stoppage time to secure a spot in the FA Cup semi-finals.

Substitutes Carney Chukwuemeka and Noni Madueke played key roles in securing the win for the Blues in a match filled with twists and turns at Stamford Bridge.

Chelsea appeared to be in control with a 2-0 lead until Axel Disasi scored a bizarre own goal from 35 yards out, injecting new life into the game in the 51st minute.

Stephy Mavididi’s superb equalizer further intensified the pressure on Chelsea, leading to unrest among the Stamford Bridge faithful with loud boos and chants directed at manager Mauricio Pochettino.

However, a crucial turning point came when Leicester’s Callum Doyle received a red card for fouling Nicolas Jackson. Initially shown a yellow card and conceding a penalty, the foul was later determined to be outside the box, resulting in Doyle’s dismissal.

Seizing the opportunity, Chelsea pressed relentlessly, with Chukwuemeka slotting in a crucial goal in the 92nd minute after an assist from Cole Palmer. Madueke’s long-range strike sealed the victory, ensuring Chelsea’s progression to the semi-finals.

Despite missing a penalty earlier in the match, Chelsea’s victory keeps their hopes alive of clinching the FA Cup for the first time since 2018, amidst a challenging season.

Meanwhile, Leicester’s focus now shifts back to the Championship as they aim to secure promotion to the Premier League, with their lead at the top of the table reduced to just one point.

Although Leicester impressed with their performance, the red card proved costly, denying them the opportunity to capitalize on their momentum and secure a comeback win against Chelsea. However, their display reaffirms their potential to return to the top flight at the end of the season.

Reps To Amend Laws To Boost Foreign Investors’ Confidence

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Rhoda Onuzulike

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March 16, 2024

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The Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives, Benjamin Okezie Kalu has asserted the readiness of the parliament to amend the extant laws to give more confidence in investors and allow for direct foreign investments.

The Deputy Speaker also said that the administration of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has provided the enabling environment and therefore, open to foreign investments.

Kalu gave the assurance while speaking at the 64th birthday celebration of His Majesty, the Emperor of Japan, Prince Hiro Naruhito in Abuja.

A statement by his Chief Press Secretary, Levinus Nwabughiogu stated that Kalu appreciated the long existing diplomatic ties between Nigeria and Japan.

He urged the Asian country and indeed, the global community to leverage the opportunities provided by the current administration and invest more in Nigeria.

“I want to congratulate the king of Japan who turned 64. It’s worthy of celebrating. If you look around, you will see the level of acceptance. It shows we love Japan.

“We love Japanese and the ambassador. The relationship so far, we are the home for primary products but it’s about time we use their technology to add more value to their primary products.

“Lots of resources are here. Japan is blessed with technology. They have been doing well with military assistance, communication equipment and the rest of them. We want to do more.

FCT Minister Promises Better Deal To Foreign Investors

“This place is now open for business. The President is in charge. He is a president that came out of the private sector. He understands the role of the private sector in any economy. Japan should not be left out. I trust the ambassador here, his relationship skill is wonderful. I know he’s going to convince a lot of them in Japan to come on board with foreign direct investments because soft landing has been created. The willingness of the President to make sure that every bottleneck is removed is guaranteed.

“We can assure you from the parliament that every legislative impediment that will affect investors coming into our country, we are willing to finetune the laws to make sure through legislative interventions that will give more confidence to investors like those coming from Japan.

“On behalf of the legislature and government, we are inviting Japan as we celebrate the birthday of their king. Nigeria awaits more investments. We will continue to improve on our sustainable diplomatic relationship with Japan and nothing will break that.

“Let us make sure this relationship will reduce our unemployment rate, through innovation that will be ushered in by the technology that’s found in Japan. What innovation does is that it questions tradition and ushers in more productivity.

“Finally, with the desire of the current administration to fight food insecurity, it’s about time we have a strategic relationship with Japan to be able to produce more food for our people to drive away hunger,” Kalu said.

He emphasised that power was important in the lives of all Nigerians no matter how it comes.

”This is a collaborative effort between the ministry of power and CREDCO on how to achieve reliable and steady power supply,” he said.

Also, the Subsidiaries Manager, Africa, Vergnet, Frederic Cheve, while making his presentation , said that the project was a renewable and innovative solution to Lagos State energy need.

He further explained that the project aims to harness the abundant wind and solar resources in Nigeria to generate clean and reliable power while mitigating the risks associated with relying on a single source of energy.

Nigeria To Tackle Powers Deficit With Alternative Energy Sources

By

Rhoda Onuzulike

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March 16, 2024

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The Nigerian Government, says it will address power deficit in the country by using alternative energy sources, such as windfall, solar and mini grids.

Minister of Power, Adebayo Adelabu, represented by Director Procurement, Ministry of Power, Abdulrasheed Lawal, disclosed this in Abuja, the nation’s capital, at the presentation of the proposed 30 Megawatts Windfall and Solar Hybrid Project at Lekki, Lagos State, south-west Nigeria.

More Than Two-Thirds Of World’s Population Support Solar Energy

According to reports, the project after necessary appraisal would be executed by Crown Resources Development Company Limited (CREDCO) in collaboration with Vergnet a French Wind Turbine Company, based in France.

” We are aware that presently there is energy deficit in the country, so we are doing everything possible to address the issue by investing in alternative sources”

”We have to think out of the box to achieve energy sufficiency; we have to look at using mini-grids, solar and wind to achieve this”

”We are already doing 10MW using Windfall in Katsina and we are trying to replicate same in Lagos in order to ensure reliable and steady power supply in the country,” the Minister said.

The Chief Executive Officer of CREDCO, Barney Ojiah, briefing the Minister on the purpose of his visit said that they were in the Ministry to make a presentation on the project and to discuss how to further improve power supply for Nigerians.