The Minister of Finance, Zainab Shamsuna Ahmed, has unveiled the achievements of her ministry as the clock ticks for her exit, revealing that Nigeria’s foreign reserves stood at $44.69 billion as at May 13, 2019.

The foreign reserves stood at $28.3 billion in May 2015 when President Muhammadu Buhari took over governance from ex-President Goodluck Jonathan.

The Minister unveiled the position of the ministry in her opening remarks at the quarterly World Press Conference, held in Abuja.

The minister said also that year-on-year inflation rates continued to improve from a high rate of 18.7 per cent in January 2017 to 11.37 per cent in April 2019.

She also disclosed that states will soon receive their outstanding balance of the Paris Club debts refunds based on the verification made on a total sum of N649.434 billion by the Ministry.

“For the final phase of the Paris Club debts refunds, the total sum of N649.434 billion was verified by the Ministry as the outstanding balance to be refunded to the State Governments.

“The payments made by the CBN as at March 2019, is N691.560 billion.

“The increase in CBN payments partly arose from exchange rate differential at the point of payment. Although, some states still have outstanding balances, which will be refunded in due course.”

According to her, with the implementation of Economic Recovery & Growth Plan (ERGP) which the Buhari’s administration developed in 2017 has led to the economy’s exit from recession and moved upwards on a path of sustainable, inclusive and diversified growth.

She further maintained that it is the resolve of the Ministry to address the long standing issue of “unsatisfactory revenue performance” in Nigeria, particularly in the non-oil sector, in order to ensure appropriate financing for critical sectors such as health, education, and infrastructure, and ultimately of co-creating a Nigeria where no one is left behind.

She said: “Our External Reserves on the other hand, grew from $28.3 billion in 2015 to US $44.69 billion as at May 13, 2019 representing significant improvement that has helped stabilize the economy, including our currency exchange rates.

“Our FX market remained relatively stable from 2017 with the convergence of the NIFEX and NAFEX windows witnessed by November 2018.

“Let me first underscore the vital role of domestic revenue mobilization for continued economic success and inclusive growth in Nigeria.

“Indeed, President Muhammadu Buhari underscored the urgent need for improved revenue performance during his 2019 Budget Speech, and he directed the acceleration of all revenue initiatives.

“The time to act is now – if we do not address the long standing issue of “unsatisfactory revenue performance” in Nigeria, particularly in the non-oil sector, we will never realize our shared goal of ensuring appropriate financing for critical sectors such as health, education, and infrastructure, and ultimately of co-creating a Nigeria where no one is left behind.

“As Minister of Finance, I have taken on the President’s important call to action, by prioritizing revenue generation, and formally launching in January 2019, the Strategic Revenue Growth Initiatives, a suite of comprehensive and cross-cutting interventions aimed at boosting revenue performance.

“I am pleased to share that we have made significant progress since launching the initiatives and I look forward to providing details later in my remarks.”

She also added that the Ministry has achieved seven consecutive quarters of Gross Domestic Product (GDP) growth since the country’s exit from recession in Q2, 2017. “As at Q4 2018, the economy grew by 2.38% in real terms (year-on-year), representing an increase of 0.27% compared to Q4 2017 and, a rise of 0.55% compared with the growth rate in Q3 2018.
Overall, GDP grew at an annual rate of 1.93% in 2018 compared with 0.82% in 2017, representing an overall increase of 1.11% year on year.”

However, the Minister acknowledged that the expenditure performance cannot be in isolation of revenues, which as a result expenditure outturn largely depends on government’s ability to generate budgeted revenues with deficits funded through borrowings.

“In 2018 our budgeted revenue was N7.2 trillion this is against the realised figure of N3.96 trillion, signifying a negative variance of 45%.

“Despite this shortfall we have been able to fully pay salaries and service 100% of our debt. We have also released seven months overhead for 2018, two months for 2019, and N2.079 billion capital expenditure as at 14th May 2019.

“We have adopted a prudent debt management strategy which ensures that we invest what we borrow in capital projects.

“Although our debt by international standards, at 19.09% Nigeria’s debt to GDP ratio is well below the threshold of 56% for countries similar to Nigeria.

“The government is addressing the issue of reducing the debt service to revenue through a combination of debt substitution strategies.”

The Minister maintained that on global risks, the Ministry will continue to remain focused on taking key mitigating actions to safeguard the economy and ensure it is “resilient to external shocks.”

“We will continue to monitor key global risks, and the Federal Ministry of Finance is focused on taking key mitigating actions to safeguard the economy and ensure it is resilient to external shocks.

“As anticipated, the global economy has slowed down in 2019 with a revised growth projection of 3.3%.

“This trajectory is mirrored in Africa, with the continent projected to grow slightly more at 3.5% in the same year. Commodity based economies including Nigeria are expected to continue recovery from the rapid commodity crash witnessed from 2014 to 2016.”

She further explained that, “This development represents challenging times amidst this year’s volatility in oil prices that has fallen from $86/barrel in October to $62/barrel in December when I gave my last Press Conference, and risen to a five-month high of above $71/barrel as at April 2019.

“While oil prices are expected to remain within the average range of $70/barrel, continued volatility is expected through the end of 2019.”

She said that her ministry was carrying out reforms at the Federal Inland Revenue Services (FIRS) and the Joint Tax Board (JTB).

With the reforms, taxpayer database has been expanded to 35 million from 9 million in the four years of the Buhari-led administration.

“Through reforms at the Federal Inland Revenue Services (FIRS) and the Joint Tax Board (JTB), we have been able to harmonize the Tax Identity Number (TIN) database to cover Federal, States and Local Governments to establish a unified identity number system for uniquely identifying tax-payers.

“The country’s taxpayer database has been expanded to 35 million from 9 million at the beginning of the administration.

“It is anticipated that this figure will grow to 45 million individual and corporate payers when the ongoing integration of different biometric database is completed”.

The bursary is available for high potential international students and aims to help them in their studies by covering some of their study expenses.

Eligibility Criteria

• Eligible Countries:Citizens of any nationality except New Zealand and Australia are eligible.
• Acceptable Course or Subjects: They can apply for an undergraduate degree program in any subjects offered by the university.
• Admissible Criteria: Candidates must be full-fee-paying international students.

Method of Application:For this opportunity, applicants have to take admission in an undergraduate degree course at the university and then complete the online application for the grant.

• Supporting Documents:A curriculum vitae, a copy of the passport, and academic transcripts should be submitted.
• Admission Requirements:Candidates are expected to complete their 12 years of academic education before applying to this course.
• Language Requirement:You are bound to take IELTS or TOEFL test, only if English is not your local language.

Benefits: Funded education will provide $10,000 – $20,000 for this course of 1 year.

Scholarship Application Deadline:October 31, 2019

Source: Scholarships And Aid

If you are interested in pursuing degree level courses inAustralia, then you have a chance Griffith University is offering GELI direct entry program scholarship.

The bursary is having a motive to help those highly excellent aspirants who are not able to complete their studies because of their financial condition.

Eligibility Criteria

• Eligible Countries:Citizens other than Australia or New Zealand are worthy for this grant.
• Acceptable Course or Subjects: They are eligible to join the undergraduate or postgraduate degree program in any subjects offered by the university.
• Admissible Criteria: Must be ready to be a full-time degree course at the university.

Method of Application:For this grant, candidates are suggested to take admission in any of the given courses at the university. They will be automatically considered for the award, there is no other application required.

• Supporting Documents:The University is not asking for supporting documents but is can ask at the time of admission.
• Admission Requirements:The requirements have based the selection of the applicants course.
• Language Requirement:TOEFL or IELTS test is necessary to show your English language proficiency only if English is not your local language.

Benefits:The educational award will be awarded ,000 towards a candidates Griffith tuition fees.

Scholarship Application Deadline:Open

Source: Scholarships And Aid

The MTF Academy offers eligible applicants who are passionate about telling their own stories a unique opportunity to improve their skills and ultimately contribute to the growth of the local and pan African film and broadcasting industries.

The MTF Academy initiative will operate in Lagos, Federal Republic of Nigeria; Nairobi, Republic of Kenya and Lusaka, Republic of Zambia for 12 months, with a production break to be determined by MultiChoice at its sole discretion.

MultiChoice Talent Factory Film Skills Development Programme Benefits.

• Sixty talented students from 13 African countries will get the chance to hone their film and television production skills alongside industry greats.
• This year-long, funded, programme will be supported byMultiChoice Talent Factory academies hosted in Kenya, Nigeria and Zambia.Students will create quality local content that will be broadcast on our local M-Net channels on the MultiChoice platform.

MultiChoice Talent Factory Film Skills Development Programme Eligibility.

Applicants must

• • Be over 18 years of age;
  • Be citizens and residents of the countries from which they are selected by MultiChoice to participate in the MTF Academy initiative, namely Angola, Botswana, Ethiopia, Ghana, Kenya, Malawi, Mozambique, Namibia, Nigeria, Tanzania, Uganda, Zambia and Zimbabwe;
  • Be fluent in English in terms of speaking, reading and writing;

• Demonstrate passion for the drama, film, television or related media and entertainment industry during selection interviews; and
• Have completed a relevant qualification from an accredited and/or recognised tertiary education institution in drama, film, television or a related media field, within the last 2 years. For the avoidance of doubt, the said qualification must be obtained only from a post-secondary education institution which has been accredited or recognised by a relevant registered institution.

Method of Application

If you are driven, committed to developing your skills and interested in participating in the MTF Academy and meet the eligibility criteria then:

• you must register on the MTF Academy website atmultichoicetalentfactory.com;
• correctly and fully complete the online application form;
• write an online a motivation letter; and
• collate and electronically submit all of the relevant supporting documents listed below:
  • your curriculum vitae; including contactable references
  • certified copy of academic transcripts or certificate from a tertiary institution; and/or
• You may also be required to provide references or any other documents that MultiChoice may stipulate.
• Your application must be submitted online by no later than the Closing Date and Time.

APPLY HERE

OFFICIAL LINK

Scholarship Application Deadline: 17h00 on 14 June 2019.

Source: Scholarships And Aid

The Association of African Universities (AAU) is calling for 3rd and final year university students who want to undergo a 3-month corporate and industrial internship from June 3rd August 3rd 2019. Selected interns will work on the projects below:

AFRICAN RESEARCH BANK

The African Research Bank is a data repository which houses research needs and problems from industries and other key sectors. The repository provides student researchers with real research problems which inform their choice of topics or problem statement during their research work/project work/thesis and dissertations stage of their academic work. The repository will assist researchers in getting real research problems from industry and other sectors of the economy and help shape their relevant research output.

AFRICAN UNIVERSITIES OLYMPICS

The African Universities Olympics is a major sporting activity organized by the Association of African Universities which brings together universities in Africa through sporting activities. After the maiden edition held in Egypt in March 2019, the AAU will be benchmarking the lessons and outcomes of the maiden Olympics in preparation for the 2nd edition.

Association of African Universities (AAU) Internships Requirements.

A. REQUIREMENT FOR RESEARCH BANK INTERNS

Category A: Student Researchers (Undergraduates, Postgraduates)

• • Must be either a 3rd /4th year undergraduate student or a postgraduate student.
  • Must have carried out or assisted in research work before.

• Must demonstrate a clear understand of research processes
• Must have the ability to work with teams, analyze and think critically.
• Must demonstrate dexterity in writing and communication

Responsibilities/Roles

• Develop concept notes and proposals.
• Develop tools for data collection.
• Analyze data for storage.

Category B: Software Developers, Web Developers and Graphic Designers

• Must be either a 3rd /4th year undergraduate or Post Graduate student studying IT/Computer Science or any related programme
• Software Developers must be able to design, develop and implement data repositories and related systems. Key technical skills are PhP, MYSQL; AGILE Software Development Methodology; HTML; CSS; Javascript; Additional or minor skills: C#; C ; XML; Java, Python; Knowledge of software development frameworks will also be a plus e.g. Laravel, MVC, Jquery and Ajax.
• Web Developers must be able to design websites (WordPress knowledge is a plus including the following HTML, CSS, Java Script, PhP, Java, SEO knowledge).
• Graphic Designers must be able to design promotional materials for publicity using tools such as Adobe Suite, Corell Draw, Canva or others.

Responsibilities/Roles

• Develop a robust system to house research bank data.
• Develop websites for the project.
• Design flyers and other promotional materials.

B. Requirement for Olympics Interns

Category A: Student Sport Administrators/Coaches (Undergraduates and Postgraduates)

• Must be either a 3rd /4th year undergraduate student or a postgraduate student studying Sports Administration or any related field.
• Must demonstrate a clear understanding of all sports disciplines and technical management.
• Must have the ability to work with teams, analyze and think critically.
• Must demonstrate dexterity in writing and communication

Responsibilities/Roles

• Develop concept notes and proposals.
• Categorize data and pictures for the maiden Olympics.
• Set modalities for the 2nd African Universities Olympics
• Develop publicity materials.

Category B: Web Developers and Graphic Designers

• Must be either a 3rd /4th year undergraduate or Post Graduate student reading IT/Computer Science or any related programme.
• Web Developers must be able to design websites (WordPress knowledge is a plus including the following HTML, CSS, Java Script, PhP, Java, SEO knowledge).
• Graphic Designers must be able to design promotional materials for publicity using tools such as Adobe Suite, Corell Draw, Canva or others.

Responsibilities/Roles

• Develop a website for the Olympics.
• Design flyers and other promotional materials.

COMMUNICATIONS INTERNS

Requirements for Communications Interns: (Undergraduates and Postgraduates)

• Must be either a 3rd /4th year undergraduate student or a postgraduate student.
• Must have the ability to work with teams, analyze and think critically.
• Must demonstrate dexterity in writing, marketing and communication.

Association of African Universities (AAU) Internships Benefits.

Interns will:

a) solve real organizational challenges using their skills

b) add real working experience to their profile

c) learn about the African Higher Education Sector and how they can contribute to its growth

d) receive very clear Terms of Reference and expected deliverables.

e) be connected to the African Higher Education Sector some of these contacts will provide opportunities for their future careers

f) join a dynamic and motivated team at AAU where they will feel part of a family

g) receive a testimonial at the end of your contractual period

How to Apply for Association of African Universities (AAU) Internships.

Interested candidates who meet the criteria listed above should submit their CVs by clicking on the Submit button below:

SUBMIT HERE

OFFICIAL LINK

Applicants will go through selection process and training before the start of the project. The deadline for submission of application is21st May, 2019.

Source: Scholarships And Aid

The Pan African University is an initiative of the Heads of State and Government of the African Union. It is a Premier continental university network whose mission is to provide quality postgraduate education geared towards the achievement of a prosperous, integrated and peaceful Africa.

Young, qualified, talented and enterprising applicants from African countries and the African Diaspora are invited to apply to join Masters or PhD degree programmes at any of the following four PAU institutes listed below. Candidates with potential, motivation and who desire to play transformative leadership roles as academics, professionals, industrialists, innovators and entrepreneurs are particularly encouraged to apply.

Reasons to join PAU:

• Excellent programmes taught by world class faculty;
• A broad network of academic and professional partners on the continent and beyond;
• Attractive scholarship scheme;
• Joint degree awards from the Pan African University and its Host Universities;
• Excellent career prospects in some of the fastest growing industries, with relevant career guidance; and
• Vibrant, multi-cultural and Pan African learning and research environments.

Pan African University Institutes.

• • Pan African University Institute for Basic Sciences, Technology and Innovation (PAUSTI), at Jomo Kenyatta University of Agriculture and Technology (JKUAT), Kenya.
  • Pan African University Institute for Life and Earth Sciences- including Health and Agriculture (PAULESI), at the University of Ibadan (UI), Nigeria.

• Pan African University Institute for Governance, Humanities and Social Sciences (PAUGHSS), at the University of Yaounde II and the University of Buea, Cameroon.
• Pan African University Institute for Water and Energy Sciences -including climate change (PAUWES), at the University of Tlemcen, Algeria.

Pan African University Scholarship Eligibility.

Admission Requirements for Masters Programmes *

Candidates must satisfy the following conditions:

• Undergraduate degree from a recognized university,with at least a second class upper division or its equivalent, in a relevant field;
• Certified copies of relevant certificates, transcripts (from university and high school),
• National passport (personal details page);
• Clear colored passport size photograph(2cmx2cm);
• Detailed CV;
• Recommendation letters from 2 Professors
• A letter of motivation justifying why you want to pursue your study in the Pan African University;
• Maximum age of 30 years for male and 35 years for female applicants.

Candidates may be required to undergo a written/oral examination after preselection.

Candidates for the Master in Conference Interpreting and Translation programmes are required to have excellent knowledge of at least two of the African Unions official languages (Arabic, English, French and Portuguese).

Admission Requirements for Doctoral Programmes

Candidates must satisfy the following conditions:

• A Masters degree in a relevant field from PAU or any internationally recognized university;
• Certified copies of relevant certificates, transcripts,
• Copy of Passport (personal details page);
• A 3 to 4 page research concept note (tentaive title, research questions, objectives, significance of the research etc)
• Recommendation letters from 2 Professors
• Clear colored passport size photograph (2cmx2cm);
• Detailed CV
• A letter of motivation justifying why you want to pursue your study in the Pan African University;
• Maximum age of 35 years for male and 40 years for female applicants.

The African Union Commission will offer full scholarships to the successful African candidates.

Method of Application

Interested candidates who meet the criteria listed above should apply by clicking on the Apply button below:

APPLY HERE

OFFICIAL LINK

Source: Scholarships And Aid

Below is the price of wash hand basin in Nigeria as at 16th May, 2019

A wash basin—is a bowl-shaped plumbing fixture used for washing hands, dishwashing, and other purposes. Sinks have taps (faucets) that supply hot and cold water and may include a spray feature to be used for faster rinsing. They also include a drain to remove used water; this drain may itself include a strainer and/or shut-off device and an overflow-prevention device. Sinks may also have an integrated soap dispenser. Many sinks, especially in kitchens, are installed adjacent to or inside a counter.

Twyford Bathrooms is a worldwide market leader and major manufacturer of this plumbing building material. Twyford has been in existence since 1849.

Twyford wash hand basin

Twyford wash hand basin Starting Price - N4,000

Double Tray Single Hole last Price - N4,000

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Location: Iyana Ipaja Lagos

External Resource: Wikipedia

Below are the prices of kitchen sinks in Nigeria as at 16th May, 2019

Kitchen Sink Double Tray Single Hole

Double Tray Double Hole Starting Price - N15,000

Double Tray Double Hole last Price - N15,000

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Portable Basin or Cabinet Basin

Single Tray Double Hole Basin or Cabinet Basin Price - N7,000

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Location: Iyana Ipaja Lagos

The Defence Headquarters (DHQ) on Tuesday dissociated the Armed Forces of Nigeria (AFN) from a document calling for the overthrow of the Muhammadu Buhari democratically-elected administration.

Navy Capt. Muhammed Wabi, Deputy Director of Defence Information accused a group, “Nigerian Continuity and Progress (NCP)’’ as being behind the document.

Wabi alleged that the document called for the setting up of an “interim government’’ in place of the elected government.

“The Armed Forces of Nigeria (AFN) wishes to dissociate itself from the rascality and intentions as espoused in a document being circulated by a faceless group named Nigerian Continuity and Progress (NCP) calling for support of a revolution to oust the current democratically elected government and in its place establish an illegitimate interim government.

“The AFN outrightly condemns the undemocratic and demonic actions of the author of the document.

“Accordingly, members of the public are enjoined to discountenance the content of the documents being circulated by NCP and equally condemned in totality, the call to derail our hard earned democracy,’’ the statement said.

Wabi said that the AFN was “very mindful of its constitutional responsibilities’’ and would not be misled into any act that would undermine democracy as enshrined in the 1999 Constitution as amended.

“The AFN remains unflinchingly loyal to the Constitution, as well as President Muhammadu Buhari and Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces of the Federal Republic of Nigeria.

The statement said all relevant law enforcement agencies had been advised to unravel those behind the seditious document for appropriate actions.

The Nigerian Stock Exchange (NSE) on Tuesday finally approved the listing of MTN Nigeria shares on the nation’s bourse.

A senior management at the NSE, who pleaded anonymity, told the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) in Lagos that MTN Nigeria application for listing was approved on Tuesday.

The source said that the company, barring unforeseen circumstances, would be listing a total of 20, 354,513,050 at N90 per share on May 16.

The source told NAN that the company had completed all the necessary steps required by the exchange for listing which led to the approval.

NAN reports that MTN Nigeria shares, when listed at N90 per share, will emerge the second largest company on the nation’s bourse after Dangote Cement with market capitalisation of N1.83 trillion.

The Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) recently confirmed the approval of MTN Nigeria application to be listed on NSE by way of introduction.

Mrs Efe Ebelo, SEC Head Corporate Communications, said that the commission had approved the company’s application to be listed on the nation’s bourse by way of introduction.

She said that the company had successfully completed the registration of 20,354,513,050 ordinary shares of N0.02 each with the commission.

NAN recalls that MTN Nigeria on May 6 filed an application with SEC and the exchange for listing by introduction.

MTN Nigeria recently changed its status from a private company to a public liability company (PLC) ahead of its listing on the exchange.

NAN reports that the conversion was one of the requirements for listing on the exchange.

The company had previously announced that it looks to list on the NSE before July, saying it plans to enter the market by way of listing by introduction.

Speaking on the conversion, Fredi Moolman, MTN Chief Executive Officer, said the listing was part of its commitment to localisation in the markets in which it operates.

“Our conversion to a Plc is a major step towards listing by introduction on the Nigerian Stock Exchange in the first half of 2019.

“It is a reaffirmation of our long-term commitment to expanding investment opportunities for Nigerians, in addition to providing everyday services to them.

“We look forward to continuing our engagement with the SEC and NSE to take forward the listing process,” Moolman had said.

NAN reports that listing on the NSE was one of the conditions reached in the resolution of a N330 billion fine placed on the telco by the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) for its inability to disconnect improperly registered SIM cards. (NAN)!

A District Head of Bebeji Local Government Area of Kano, Haruna Sanusi, has resigned his appointment less than 48 hours after the installation of four new emirs in the state.

Sanusis resignation on Monday was in reaction to the installation of heads of new emirates by Governor Abdullahi Ganduje and his loyalty to the Emir of Kano, Muhammadu Sanusi.

According to Daily Nigerian, the traditional leader cited health ground and recent changes in the emirate system as reason for his resignation.

The state now has five emirates: Kano, Rano, Gaya, Karaye and Bichi. All Emirs would have equal powers and are to be on same first class status as Sanusi.

The new heads include Aminu Ado Bayero, son of late Emir of Kano, Ado Bayero, who is the pioneer emir of the newly established Bichi Emirate.

The Emir of Gaya is Alhaji Ibrahim Abdulkadir Gaya; the Emir of Rano is Alhaji Tafida Abubakar Ila, while the Emir of Karaye is Dr. Alhaji Ibrahim Abukakar ll.

As it stands, Kano emirate headed by Sanusi has 10 local governments: Kano Municipal, Tarauni, Dala, Nassarawa, Fagge, Gwale, Kumbotso, Ungogo, Dawakin Kudu and Minjibir.

Rano emirate will control Rano, Bunkure, Kibiya, Takai, Sumaila, Kura, Doguwa, Tudun Wada, Kiru, Bebeji. while Gaya emirate has Gaya, Ajingi, Albasu, Wudil, Garko, Warawa, Gezawa, Gabasawa LGAs.

Karaye, Rogo, Gwarzo, Kabo Rimin Gado, Madobi, Garun Malam LGAs will be under the Karaye emirate.

Bichi emirate will control Bichi, Bagwai, Shanono, Tsanyawa, Kunchi, Makoda, Danbatta, Dawakin Tofa, Tofa local governments.

Source: NAN

WhatsApp on Monday urged all of its 1.5 billion users to update their apps as an added precaution against hackers who remotely install surveillance software on phones and other devices.

According to reports, the hackers were able to operate using a major vulnerability in the messaging app.

WhatsApp, which is owned by Facebook, said the attack targeted a select number of users, and was orchestrated by an advanced cyber actor.

A fix was rolled out on Friday.

The attack was developed by Israeli security firm NSO Group, according to a report in the Financial Times.

The attack was first discovered earlier this month, according to the .

It involved attackers using WhatsApps voice calling function to ring a targets device. Even if the call was not picked up, the surveillance software would be installed, and, the FT reported, the call would often disappear from the devices call log.

WhatsApp told the BBC its security team was the first to identify the flaw, and shared that information with human rights groups, selected security vendors and the US Department of Justice earlier this month.

The attack has all the hallmarks of a private company reportedly that works with governments to deliver spyware that takes over the functions of mobile phone operating systems, the company said on Monday in a briefing document note for journalists.

The firm also published an advisory to security specialists, in which it described the flaw as: A buffer overflow vulnerability in WhatsApp VOIP stack allowed remote code execution via specially crafted series of SRTCP packets sent to a target phone number.

Source: NAN

By Abubakar Ahmed

The Federal Government did not give Miyetti Allah Cattle Breeders Association money during its recent meeting with the group in Brinin Kebbi,, the Minister of Interior, retired Lt.-Gen. Abdulrahman Dambazau, said on Monday.

The minister spoke in Anka, Zamfara, on Monday while fielding questions from newsmen.

He described information that government gave the group money as the fabrication of mischief makers.

Let me state categorically that during our meeting with members of the Miyetti Allah representatives, no issue of money was discussed at all, not to talk about giving them any.

We did not give them even one kobo, the information being spread is the fabrication of mischief makers trying to divert from the matter facing us, which is the killing of innocent citizens.

My visit to Zamfara today is in furtherance of that meeting to discuss with stakeholders and as you have seen, we are on course and confident that the issue of banditry in all the affected states is coming to an end, he said.

The minister had earlier told the Emir of Anka, Alhaji Attahiru Ahmad that he was in the state at the instance of President Muhammadu Buhari to address insecurity in the state.

He assured farmers that government would provide adequate security for them to farm without hindrance during the farming season.

Ahmad, who is also the Chairman of the Council of Chiefs in the state, urged government to do more in order to resolve the crisis.

He said unless something more serious was done, there would be no farming in the state during the year, adding that many villages had been deserted with more displaced women and children coming to the towns.

Ahmad said at the moment, there were more than 16,000 internally displaced persons in Anka who had escaped bandits attacks from nearby villages.

He advised that security agents should invade all the deserted villages which were now hiding places for the bandits to enable displaced villagers to return home.

Source: NAN

(dpa/NAN) North Korea on Tuesday demanded the release of a cargo ship seized by the U.S. on suspicion of breaching UN and U.S. sanctions, the official Yonhap news agency cited Pyongyang state media as saying.

The U.S. government on Thursday seized the North Korean ship which was being used to export coal, the first time Washington has taken such a step against Pyongyang.

U.S. authorities said the ship, the Wise Honest, was captured after it attempted to hide its country of origin and was now in their custody.

The Justice Department described the 17,061-ton, single-hull bulk carrier ship as one of North Koreas largest.

The U.S. should think seriously about what consequences its brigandish act will bring about and return our ship without delay, a North Korean spokesperson was quoted by Yonhap as saying.

The spokesperson reportedly added that the seizure was a violation of a joint declaration signed by the two countries, following the first-ever summit between U.S. President Donald Trump and North Korean leader Kim Jong Un in June 2018.

Negotiations regarding North Koreas nuclear weapons have recently stalled and tensions between the two countries have been rising.

Pyongyang and Washington have recently tested missiles. North Korea launched short-range projectiles, while the U.S. tested intercontinental ballistic missiles.

Source: NAN

By Collins Yakubu-Hammer

Controversial Nollywood actress, Tonto Dikeh on Tuesday hinted on her desire to get a new set of boobs for her birthday which comes up on June 9.

The 33-year-old singer and mother of one with 4.4 million followers revealed this on her Instagram handle, @tontolet.

The philanthropist and self-acclaimed evangelist posted her thought in form of prayers to God.

Dear Lord Jesus, I have all I want for now.
My birthday wish is that you make me schedule and that of Dr Ayo allign so I have my new boobs in Jesus name I pray!! Thanks in addy Lord

ME A NEW BREAST, she wrote.

However, it is believed that the new boobs she was talking about might be additional plaster surgery to her mammary glans to enhance firmness.

The third child in the family of five had in 2017 reportedly undergone plastic surgery twice to increase the size of her butt and enhance her body image.

Also, on Tuesday, Jan. 2, 2018 Dikeh who was raised by her step-mother thanked her surgeon for the work he did on her body and wished him and his team a happy new year.

According to series of posts on her Instagram in 2018, she did the first surgery for five million naira while the second surgery went for four million naira.

In November 2018, the Petrochemical Engineering graduate from River State University of Science and Technology hinted on getting another plastic surgery.

Her birthday wish for a new boobs is a clear indication that she would soon be undergoing the knife to enhance her boobs.

Source: NAN

The King of Swaziland, King Mswati III has made a declaration in the country that from June 2019, men will be required to marry at least five wives or go to jail.

A statement by the King called for all men in the country to marry at least five wives, assuring the men that government would pay for the marriage ceremonies and buy houses for them.

Heres the deal, marry at least five wives and youre assured that the government will pay for the marriage ceremonies and buy houses for them.

King Mswati warned that any man or woman who opposes the decision will face a life sentence.

The order, according to IHarare, is to ensure every woman gets a husband as it is believed that men taking more wives will help women get husbands.

The monarch noted that there are more women than men in Swaziland which he noted was a very serious problem for a country known to be full of virgins.

Reports say that the decision also came following the increasing number of virgins and scarcity of men in the country.

King Mswati himself has 15 wives and 25 children, while his father and predecessor had more than 70 wives and over 150 children.

Source: NAN

There are indications that English Premier League (EPL) champions Manchester City might lose their UEFA Champions League spot over alleged breach of Financial Fair Play (FFP).

With this development, Arsenal are likely be handed a Champions League lifeline if the ban finally comes from the Europes football governing body (UEFA).

According to UK Sun, the Etihad clubside are under probe by UEFA for providing unconvincing explanations over the clubs finances.

However, Arsenal are waiting to benefit from Citys setback as it offer another window for Unai Emerys side to return to Europe, irrespective of finishing fifth at the end of the campaign.

Arsenal were banking on beating Chelsea in the Europa League final on May 29, as their only Champions League hopes after they missed out of a top four finish.

The Gunners had suffered three straight defeats in April against Crystal Palace, Wolves and Leicester thereby ending the season on fifth spot one behind North London neighbours Tottenham, two behind London rivals Chelsea and four points ahead of sixth-place Man United.

Interestingly, City have been repeatedly linked with flaunting FFP, with Football Leaks document revealing series of allegations.

At the last count, UEFA are accusing Man City of several alleged violations of FFP regulations during its formal probe in March. Initial inquiries commenced last year after the Football Leaks reports.

Reports say Man City allegedly failed to disclose about 70m funds from owners Abu Dhabi United Group the financial arm of the Emirates ruling family, declaring it was sponsorship income.

But Man City have condemned the speculation resulting from the illegal hacking and out of context publication of City emails and added: The accusations of financial irregularities are entirely false.

Source: NAN

The FbStart Accelerator is a 6-month research and mentorship driven program for innovative and visionary teams daring to create solutions with advanced technologies. The accelerator provides these teams with the support they need to build and optimize value driven products and match them with resources from Facebook and CcHUB.

The research and mentorship-driven program would focus on providing teams with technical & business support and funding needed to optimize their product for growth. It is designed for startup and student teams building solutions that utilize any of these technologies; Artificial Intelligence, Data Science, Internet of Things, Augmented Reality (AR) and Virtual Reality (VR).

The onsite component of the accelerator is tailored for startup teams who would be physically present at NG_HUB while student teams would have the flexibility of a virtual acceleration program, with the option to work out of partner hubs.

NG_HUB, from Facebook and in partnership with CcHUB, is a deep-tech focused innovation lab for entrepreneurs, students, researchers, technologists and other stakeholders building solutions with advanced technologies.

FbStart Accelerator Program Categories.

The program is designed to support teams in two categories:

• Onsite Acceleration for Startup Teams: Designed for startup teams with existing products who have customers or are market-ready.

• Virtual Acceleration for Student Teams: Designed for Nigerian and Ghanaian students (BSc, MSc or PhD) with working prototypes or the technical expertise required to build intended solutions.

FbStart Accelerator Program Eligibility.

• Onsite Accelerator: Startup Teams
• Have a functional product leveraging one of these technologies; Artificial Intelligence, Internet of Things, Data Science, Augmented Reality or Virtual Reality
• Have gained some users/customers.
• Have a technical lead and founder (s) that are fully committed to the business.
• Have the potential to disrupt or greatly enhance their focus industries.
• Virtual Accelerator: Student Teams
• Be a BSc., MSc. or PhD student in a Nigerian/Ghanian higher institution as at July 2019.
• Have an MVP (Minimum Viable Product)/Prototype or be able to prove that you have the capacity to build your intended solution. Your solution must leverage one of these technologies; Artificial Intelligence, Internet of Things, Data Science, Augmented Reality or Virtual Reality
• Have a technical lead and founder (s) that are fully committed to the business.

FbStart Accelerator Program Benefits.

Onsite Accelerator: Startup Teams

Startups that are accepted into the program will receive the following:

• Equity-free funding: Startup teams would get $20,000 in equity-free funding.

• Hands-on support: Product development, business strategy & structure, financial management and investment readiness.

• Access to technical experts and business mentors from Facebook and CcHUB’s network

• An office space with high-speed internet, meeting rooms & more.

Virtual Accelerator: Student Teams

Student teams that are accepted into the program will receive the following:

• Equity-free funding of $10,000.

• Hands-on support: Product development, Business strategy & Structure, and Investment readiness.

• Access to technical experts and business mentors from Facebook and CcHUB’s network

• Possible access to office space and high-speed internet at partner hubs.

• A flexible program designed with consideration to your academic obligations.

How to Apply for FbStart Accelerator Program.

Interested candidates who meet the criteria listed above should apply by clicking on the “Apply” button below:

Apply Here

For more information, contact [email protected].

Application Deadline: June 30, 2019 at 12:00am

The MTF Academy offers eligible applicants who are passionate about telling their own stories a unique opportunity to improve their skills and ultimately contribute to the growth of the local and pan African film and broadcasting industries.

MultiChoice Talent Factory (MTF) is a social investment initiative aimed at igniting Africas creative industries and growing them into vibrant, economic powerhouses. As a business born and bred in Africa, we have a long term commitment to making a socio-economic difference and creating shared value in the countries in which we operate. As such, we launched the MTF to positively impact the technical and professional value chain in the film and television industry across the continent. Established in partnership with stakeholders across the continent, MTF aims at providing the creative industries with a platform to learn and develop their talent, engage and connect with each other through their shared passions across three touchpoints which include the MTF Academy.

MultiChoice Talent Factory Film Skills Development Programme Benefits.

• Sixty talented students from 13 African countries will get the chance to hone their film and television production skills alongside industry greats.
• This year-long, funded, programme will be supported byMultiChoice Talent Factory academies hosted in Kenya, Nigeria and Zambia.Students will create quality local content that will be broadcast on our local M-Net channels on the MultiChoice platform.

Eligibility Criteria:

Applicants must

• Be over 18 years of age;
• Be citizens and residents of the countries from which they are selected by MultiChoice to participate in the MTF Academy initiative, namely Angola, Botswana, Ethiopia, Ghana, Kenya, Malawi, Mozambique, Namibia, Nigeria, Tanzania, Uganda, Zambia and Zimbabwe;
• Be fluent in English in terms of speaking, reading and writing;
• Demonstrate passion for the drama, film, television or related media and entertainment industry during selection interviews; and
• Have completed a relevant qualification from an accredited and/or recognised tertiary education institution in drama, film, television or a related media field, within the last 2 years. For the avoidance of doubt, the said qualification must be obtained only from a post-secondary education institution which has been accredited or recognised by a relevant registered institution.

Method of Application:

If you are driven, committed to developing your skills and interested in participating in the MTF Academy and meet the eligibility criteria then:

• you must register on the MTF Academy website atmultichoicetalentfactory.com;
• correctly and fully complete the online application form;
• write an online a motivation letter; and
• collate and electronically submit all of the relevant supporting documents listed below:
  • your curriculum vitae; including contactable references
  • certified copy of academic transcripts or certificate from a tertiary institution; and/or
• You may also be required to provide references or any other documents that MultiChoice may stipulate.
• Your application must be submitted online by no later than the Closing Date and Time.

APPLY HERE

OFFICIAL LINK

Scholarship Application Deadline: 17h00 on 14 June 2019.

Source: Scholarships And Aid

The Japan Africa Scholarship (JADS) Program capacity building in energy sector through skills development for sustainable development is a joint initiative by the AfDB and Japan that aims at providing two-year scholarship awards to highly achieving African graduate students to enable them to undergo post-graduate studies (i.e. a two-year Masters degree program) in priority development areas on the continent and abroad (including in Japan).

Eligibility Criteria

• Applicants must be a national of a AfDB member country;
• Be in good health;
• Hold a Bachelor (or equivalent) degree in the energy area (or related field) earned at least 1 years prior to the application deadline date;
• Have 1 years or more of recent development-related experience after earning a Bachelor (or equivalent) degree;
• Be accepted unconditionally to enroll in the upcoming academic year in at least one of the JADS partner universities for a Masters degree;
• Applicants living or working in a country other than his or her home country are not eligible for scholarships;
• JADS does not support applicants who are already enrolled in graduate degree programs;
• Not be an Executive Director, his/her alternate, and/or staff of all types of appointments of the African Development Bank Group or a close relative of the aforementioned by blood or adoption with the term close relative defined as: Mother, Father, Sister, Half-sister, Brother, Half-brother, Son, Daughter, Aunt, Uncle, Niece, or Nephew.

Japan Africa Dream Scholarship Benefits.

The JADS Scholarship provides the recipient with the following benefits:

• Economy class air travel between your home country and the host university at the start of the study program and immediately following the end of the scholarship period.
• Tuition for a graduate program and the cost of basic medical insurance usually obtained through the university.
• A monthly subsistence allowance to cover living expenses, including books.

For scholars engaged in research, a special grant may be available for research and thesis preparation. In special circumstances, computer literacy, preparatory language and other similar courses may be covered under the scholarship. Please note all JADS scholarships cover the duration of the graduate program or two years, whichever is less.

The JADS Scholarship does not cover:

• VISA application(s) costs
• Expenses to bring and/or support scholars family members;
• Extra-curricular courses or training;
• Language training not provided by the graduate program;
• Additional travel during the course of the study program;
• Expenses related to supplementary educational materials, field trips, participation in workshops/seminars, or internships; or
• Educational equipment such as computers.

Method of Application

• Applicant completesJADS application form
• Applicant sends documents (application form, university transcripts and certificate, CV, professional references and research proposal), to the JADS Secretariat for first screening through [email protected]
• JADS Secretariat sends shortlist of candidates to selected Japanese universities
• Universities does second screening and share selected students with JADS Secretariat
• JADS Secretariat recommends awardees based on its selection criteria to the Japanese Executive Director for approval
• AfDB contacts selected awardees, and informs partner universities.

APPLICATION FORM

OFFICIAL LINK

Scholarship Application Deadline: August 31, 2019.

Source: Scholarships And Aid