Invest Heavily In Education, Prioritise Lecturers Welfare, Dean Urges FG

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June 29, 2023

The Dean, Faculty of Applied Sciences, Kola Daisi University, Ibadan, Prof. Olajumoke Morenikeji, has urged the Federal Government to show greater commitment to education by increasing the budgetary allocation to the sector.

Morenikeji also urged the new administration to prioritize the welfare of lecturers and payment of the eight-month outstanding salaries of the Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU).

Morenikeji stated this at the second edition of the science exhibition and quiz competition for secondary schools in Oyo State organized by the Faculty of Applied Sciences of the university, where Mount Olivet Grammar school, Bodija, Ibadan emerged winners among the 21 participating public and private secondary schools.

The dean said the present government must focus on education, adding that a country without good education is as good as nothing.

She said the administration must look into the welfare of lecturers, as it is very important.

The Vice Chancellor of the University, Adeniyi Olatubosun (SAN), said no country can become industrialized without science and technology.

Olatubosun said the science exhibition and quiz competition is focused on youths in secondary schools because this will form the foundation for building up scientists and technologists that can drive the nation’s system.

Olatunbosun recalled that Japan, between 1951 and 1953, put its emphasis on science promotion and after 20 years, the country became one of the industrialized nations in the world.

YABATECH Rector Urges Skills Development programmes

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Nzubechukwu Anodo

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June 29, 2023

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The Rector of the Yaba College of Technology YABATECH, Adedotun Abdul has pledged to repackage all academic and skills development programmes of the college.

Abdul, who disclosed this in his inaugural address, also unveiled the five-point agenda of his administration for the next five years.

He coined the five developmental project as ERECT, which means Empower the entire workforce in the college by enhancing staff welfare, Repackage all academic and skills development programmes by creating industry advisory committee and set up STBI hubs, Consolidate and Expand all the sources of Internally-Generated Revenue (IGR) of the college and Tap into the national and international grant and endowment for funding vital infrastructures.

He said the world is changing and technology is at the forefront of this transformation.

He pledged to ensure that YABATECH students are equipped with the skills and knowledge they need to succeed in the rapidly–evolving world.

He said to achieve this, the institution must continue to focus on providing students with the best possible education, grounded in a deep understanding of the latest technologies, as well as a broad-based foundation in the liberal arts and sciences.

He promised to consolidate on the past achievements and leave the school better than he met it.

He identified areas of focus of his administration to include staff welfare and creating opportunities for development, such as training, sponsorship, attendance at workshops, conferences and certificate programmes.

He appealed to all staff to put in their best for the college to sustain and improve on the academic excellence, which the institution is known for.

He also urged staff and students to imbibe good conduct and discipline without which there cannot be meaningful development.

NGO Seeks Increase In Budgetary Allocation To Health Sector

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Olasunbo Okoromi

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June 29, 2023

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The Secretary General Follow the Money International, Mr Muktar Halilu,a Non Governmental Organisation, (NGO) has advocated for increase on budget allocation for healthcare sector in Nigeria to save lives.

Halilu stated this on Tuesday at a high-level round table in North East entitled: “setting agenda for healthcare in Nigeria”, in Yola.

The meeting was organised by Connected Development (CODE) in collaboration with Budgit.

The Secretary General said “that the aim of the meeting across the country was to put together the information on challenge of healthcare system in the country.”

According to him, the outcome of the meeting would be used during the health sector summit slated for later in the year.

He said that the summit would bring together state governors, ministers, commissioners, permanent secretaries and directors to proffer solutions and way the forward.

Speaking, Mua’azu Modou, Country representative, Follow the Money International expressed worry over how the 2023 budget allocation for solar power street lights superceded that of healthcare sector.

According to him, N86 billion was for solar power street lights while N46 billion was for the healthcare hence there was the need for government and legislators to look at the situation.

He called on the participants to actively contribute their own part towards improving the healthcare sector and the to fight corruption in the state for more successes.

According to him, with the right information CSOs will know how to engage decision makers to make right decisions.

Deputy Director Public Health in the state Mr Dogara Paul, commended the organizers for taking steps to improve healthcare service delivery in the country.

In his submission, Abdullahi Jawa, Permanent Secretary Ministry of Health, Yobe State described the meeting as excellent.

He said that his capacity had improved on the current update in healthcare sector and assured to step down the knowledge to staff and students.

The participants were Permanent Secretaries and Directors of Ministry of Health drawn from Adamawa, Bauchi, Borno, Gombe, Taraba and Yobe States.

Marvel Studios, Netflix Sit Out Comic-Con Amid Labor Unrest

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Emenike Agu

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June 29, 2023

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Comic-Con is the latest event to be hit by Hollywood’s labor issue.

A number of the major studios have decided against having a presence at the fan-fest, which is scheduled to kick off in San Diego on July 19.

It has been reported that Universal Pictures, Marvel Studios, Lucasfilm, Sony Pictures and Netflix are among those companies not planning to attend in a major way.

It comes as the Writers Guild of America (WGA) is currently on strike, having failed to reach a deal with the AMPTP, and SAG-AFTRA is still negotiating with the studios. As we revealed earlier today, it’s a pivotal moment for the actors as their contract is up on June 30.

Given this uncertainty, the studios decided against planning a major presence in case the actors, as well as the writers are unwilling to attend. However, It does look likely that the directors will ratify their deal with the AMPTP later this evening.

It is the latest blow for Comic-Con, which was forced to cancel its main event in 2020 and 2021 as a result of the Covid-19 pandemic.

It also comes as a slew of other film and TV-focused events have been impacted. The Television Critics Association’s summer press tour has been canceled and there are even question marks as to whether the Emmys will go ahead in September.

The move will mean that attendees won’t be able to hear about, and potentially see, anything from upcoming movies such as Disney’s Haunted Mansion, Captain Marvel sequel The Marvels or Lucasfilm projects such as Ahsoka.

Universal Pictures has movies such as The Exorcist and The Last Voyage of The Demeter, which would have been classic Comic-Con fare, while Sony has Kraven The Hunter.

Meet Football’s Most Valuable First 11 Worth €1.25bn

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Emenike Agu

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June 29, 2023

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Manchester City striker, Erling Haaland has made the list of the latest world’s most valuable starting eleven (3-5-2).

According to Transfermarkt, Haaland made the list alongside Kylian Mbappe, Bukayo Saka, and Phil Foden, among others.

The combined market value of the starting eleven amounts to a total of €1.25 billion.

Erling Haaland has enjoyed a near-perfect debut season as a Manchester City player in the Premier League. The towering striker can already tick off three trophies; the Premier League, the FA Cup and, of course, the UEFA Champions League. He ended the 2022-23 campaign with 52 goals in all competitions, and may soon receive one more individual award.

The Norway international is in the running for the Ballon d’Or but will face some stern competition to win the respected gong. However, Haaland has done his case no harm at all, and it seems an inevitability that he will win the accolade one day, if not this year.

On his part, PSG’s Kylian Mbappe is tipped to win multiple Ballon d’Or awards in the future. This could very well have been his year. After all, he picked up the Golden Boot at the 2022 FIFA World Cup and even scored a wonderful hat-trick in the final against Argentina, albeit in a losing affair.

Mbappe was once again Paris Saint-Germain’s main man as they won the Ligue 1 title. However, an early exit from the Champions League would have hampered his chances of winning the Ballon d’Or. Mbappe scored 41 goals and provided 10 assists in 43 appearances across all competitions for PSG in the 2022-23 season.

23-year-old Phil Foden made 48 appearances across competitions, of which 29 were as starters in the playing XI. Foden has, to his credit, scored 15 goals and eight assists this past season.

Foden, though, was not as regular in the playing XI as one would have anticipated him to be. After Manchester City defeated Bournemouth 4-1 in February, Pep Guardiola emphasised Foden’s importance in the team, saying, “He scored a goal, he was good, he is important. We need Phil, his work ethic. He scored a goal and assisted. He’s so important, step by step, he will be back.”

Foden, however, didn’t start in either of the two matches for England in the recent international break. He was used as a substitute in both games. Hence, it’s fair to say that the 23-year-old is not going through the best moment of his career at the moment.

However, given Phil Foden’s immense talent and his well-known work ethic, it might not be too long before the player finds himself back in the mix for both club and country.

Josko Gvardiol seems to be one of the most sought-after in the football market. Manchester City is rumoured to be stepping up efforts to sign the youngster after he indicated to RB Leipzig he was ready to leave.

Leipzig wants around £86 million for the 21-year-old. Previous club Dinamo Zagreb are understood to have a sell-on clause of around 20 per cent.

Guardiola is seeking to replace Aymeric Laporte with Gvardiol, who is expected to leave. Reports from Foot Mercato had earlier claimed the club were ready to break the bank in order to bring the 21-year-old to Manchester.

See the full list below:

Forwards: Erling Haaland (Manchester City, €180m), Kylian Mbappe (PSG, €180m).

Midfielders: Vinicius Jr. (Real Madrid, €150m), Bukayo Saka (Arsenal, €120m), Jude Bellingham (Dortmund/Real Madrid, €120m), Jamal Musiala (Bayern Munich, €110m) and Phil Foden (Manchester City, €110m).

Defenders: Matthijs De Ligt (Bayern Munich, €75m), Ruben Dias (Manchester City, €80m) and Josko Gvardiol (RB Leipzig, €75m).

Goalkeeper: Diogo Costa (Porto, €45m).

David Corenswet to feature as Superman, Replaces Henry Cavill

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Emenike Agu

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June 29, 2023

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David Corenswet, known for his roles in “The Politician,” has been chosen to fill the iconic role of Superman, replacing Henry Cavill.

The announcement came amidst claims of an impending actors’ strike, prompting the hurried decision.

The casting news, first reported by Deadline and later confirmed by DC Boss James Gunn on Twitter, sparked both excitement and speculation among fans.

At 29 years old, Corenswet’s selection for the role over contenders like Nicholas Hoult, Phoebe Dynevor, and Emma Mackey has garnered attention.

The talented actor is not only applauded for his acting skills but also recognized as a wonderful person, as expressed by Gunn in his tweet.

The forthcoming film, titled “Superman: Legacy,” promises to bring a fresh perspective to the beloved superhero.

Also, Rachel Brosnahan, acclaimed for her role in “The Marvelous Mrs Maisel,” has been cast as Lois Lane in the upcoming film “Superman: Legacy.”

The decision to include Brosnahan alongside David Corenswet, who will portray Superman, marks an exciting new chapter in the Superman franchise.

The casting process reportedly involved rigorous deliberation, with Brosnahan, ultimately emerging victorious.

The news of Brosnahan’s casting adds to the film’s anticipation, especially given her exceptional performance in “The Marvelous Mrs Maisel.”

Her portrayal of Lois Lane is eagerly awaited, and fans are eager to see the on-screen chemistry between Brosnahan and Corenswet.

With DC Boss James Gunn praising both actors as talented and wonderful individuals, the stage is set for a compelling and memorable portrayal of the iconic characters.

75 Nigerian Student-Athletes May Miss The World University Games For Lack Of Funds

By

Emenike Agu

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June 29, 2023

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The Nigerian Universities Games Association (NUGA) has expressed concerns over the potential absence of 75 Nigerian athletes at the forthcoming World University Games in China.

After a successful trial in May at the University of Benin, NUGA faces a no-show because of a lack of funds.

Nigeria’s contingent was primed to compete in seven out of the 15 compulsory sports at the Biennial World University Games, including Track and Field, Swimming, Badminton, Judo, Taekwondo, Table Tennis, and Tennis.

However, NUGA revealed on Tuesday that they have yet to receive the necessary funds to support the athletes during the 12-day competition.

Chidibiere Ezeani, the Acting General Secretary of NUGA, made an emotional appeal in the statement, urgently seeking financial assistance from the government.

She emphasised the importance of investing in university athletes, as they represent the future of Nigerian sports, and their success will inspire generations to come.

Ms Ezeani further highlighted the significance of the World University Games as a platform to showcase Nigerian talent to the world.

She expressed fear that, without adequate funding, these promising young athletes may be deprived of the opportunity to shine on the international stage.

“The World University Games is not just about sporting excellence, but also about cultural exchange and global camaraderie among student-athletes around the world,” stated Ms Ezeani.

“It is an opportunity for Nigeria to demonstrate our sporting prowess, enhance our international reputation, and inspire future generations of athletes.”

NUGA urgently calls upon the government, sports authorities, and corporate sponsors to step forward and provide the necessary financial support to ensure Nigeria’s participation in the World University Games.

The association believes timely assistance can empower the country’s talented athletes, enabling them to represent Nigeria with pride, resilience, and determination.

Ms Ezeani concluded by expressing concerns that the lack of funding might adversely affect the athletes’ preparation, considering that the competition will begin in just a month.

Time is of the essence, and NUGA is calling on those in authority to recognise the vital role university athletes play in shaping the future of Nigerian sports.

“By investing in their journey to Chengdu, Nigeria will not only develop its sports sector but also inspire generations to come,” she noted.

Nollywood Star Suspended For Drug Use By AGN

By

Emenike Agu

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June 29, 2023

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Nollywood star, Jerry Williams have been suspended indefinitely by the Actors Guild of Nigeria (AGN) for his involvement with illicit substance.

The announcement was made by the National President of AGN, Emeka Rollas, through a statement.

Rollas explained that the association had been closely monitoring the situation since December, and unfortunately, it has escalated to a point where immediate action was necessary.

The primary concern of the AGN is the safety and well-being of its members.

Williams, due to his association with illicit substances, poses a potential risk to the lives of others, especially when working together on set.

Rollas emphasized that the decision to suspend Williams was made in the interest of safeguarding fellow actors and ensuring a secure working environment.

Consequently, the AGN has decided to suspend Jerry Williams indefinitely until he receives a clean bill of health from a medical professional or a specialist in drug abuse.

This step ensures that his well-being is prioritized and that he is fit to resume work within the industry.

Jerry Williams is noted for his roles in movies like, “Cash and Carry” “Sound of Desperation” and others.

Nollywood Soars As Nigerians Join Oscar Academy’s New Members

By

Emenike Agu

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June 29, 2023

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In an unprecedented move that signals a significant recognition of the Nigerian film industry, four of its esteemed figures have joined the Oscar Academy’s new membership.

The new Members – Richard Mofe Damijo, C.J Obasi, Jade Osiberu, and Kunle Afolayan – have been invited as part of the 398 new members of the prestigious Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences, the body responsible for the Oscars.

This landmark achievement, announced by the Academy in its 2023 member intake, further cements Nollywood’s place on the global stage and acknowledges the exceptional contributions these individuals have made to the film industry, not just in Nigeria but worldwide.

The inclusion of these four Nollywood figures in the Academy is a significant milestone for the Nigerian film industry. It not only validates the progress Nollywood has made but also puts it firmly on the international map. This achievement also opens up more opportunities for Nigerian films to be recognized in the Oscars, particularly with the expanded Best International Feature Film category.

While Nollywood has long been a powerhouse in Africa, producing thousands of films each year, its recognition on the international stage has been comparatively limited. However, with the inclusion of four of its figures in the Academy, this is set to change.

These invitations to the Academy offer a platform for increased representation and diversity in the Oscars voting body, which has been a point of contention in recent years.

Nigerian Box Office: Almajiri Flops with ₦5 million

By

Emenike Agu

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June 29, 2023

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Opening in Nigerian cinemas on June 23, 2023, the figures from the Cinema Exhibitors Association of Nigeria (CEAN) show that the new title made only ₦5,425,050 across 54 locations over the weekend.

This is low even by Nigerian standards considering that other 2023 releases like Domitilla: The Reboot opened with ₦10 million, and The Kujus Again raked in ₦17 million in its first week.

Over the years, AY has made a name for himself as the Nollywood Box Office King by consistently putting out commercially successful films.

His last movie, Christmas in Miami (2021), earned ₦265,583,000 and is still one of the highest-grossing local films of all time.

Prior projects, Merry Men: The Real Yoruba Demons (2018) and Merry Men 2: Another Mission (2019), brought in ₦235,628,358 and ₦234,505,169, respectively.

Although proven by the recognition the movie received before its release at the 2022 Africa International Film Festival (AFRIFF) and the Toronto International Nollywood Film Festival (TINFF), where the movie won twelve awards, the movie failed to live up to the billing.

Directed by Toka McBaror and co-produced by Darlington Abudu, the movie stars Alex Ekubo, Annie Idibia, Kanayo O. Kanayo, Segun Arinze, Ali Nuhu, Rahama Sadau, Sani Danja, Broda Shaggi, and AY.

Based on true stories, Almajiri follows two young children who were separated from their parents by Alhaji Makarfi. Under his ‘care’, they deal with chronic illness, abuse, trafficking, drug addiction, poverty, violence, and forms of child slavery.

While this is no doubt an extremely important issue, the domestic box office has shown time and time again that comedy sells most of the time, so it should go without saying that choosing to tell this story should have come with an extremely fat marketing budget.