Nigerian Senate Passes N4.8 trillion for 2012 budget

Senate has passed the sum of N4, 877, 209, 156, 933 for the 2012 budget at the plenary on Thursday. The 2012 budget was increased to this figure from the original N4.6 trillion sent to the National Assembly by President Goodluck Jonathan to accommodate the SURE program while the sum of N888 billion was appropriated for fuel subsidy.

The initial budget had no provision for fuel subsidy following the removal of the subsidy on January 1. But days of widespread protests and industrial action called by the labour union, made the federal government return a partial sum for the fuel subsidy.

The chairman Senate committee on Appropriation, Senator Ahmad Maccido, told journalists that the budget for the Nigerian National Petroleum Company (NNPC) was included in the budget while that of the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) budget was left out in the 2012 budget.

According to the Senate spokesman, Senator Enyinaya Abaribe,

“the CBN governor is hiding under the CBN act but the Fiscal Responsibility Act stipulates that budgets from all government agencies should be scrutinized by the national assembly.”

He noted that the problem with the CBN budget is a legal matter which the National Assembly would take up. The CBN governor, Mallam Sanusi Lamido Sanusi in a letter to the House of Representative earler in the year stated that the budget of the CBN is not subject to the yearly appropriation, claiming the National has delegated the power of such appropriation to the board of the CBN as stipulated by the CBN Act.

The letter stated that “by section 6 (3) of the CBN Act 2007, the National Assembly is deemed to have donated its authorisation powers under section 80 (3) of the constitution as it relates to the budget of the CBN to the board of the CBN.” Mr Sanusi’s letter was in response to an earlier letter by the House of Representative Committee on Appropiation, which requested the CBN to forward its 2012 budget estimates to the assembly for appropriation.

The lawmakers had threatened not to pass the budget unless 31 revenue generating agencies including the CBN and the NNPC forward their budgets to the National Assembly for appropriation.

 Source from http://www.channelstv.com/home/2012/03/15/senate-passes-n4-8-trillion-for-2012-budget

President Barack Obama pays tribute to Britain as Prime Minister David Camerons join President and First Lady on White House balcony!

President Barack Obama today said the relationship between the U.S. and Britain is 'the strongest that it has ever been' as he welcomed David Cameron to Washington in a lavish ceremony at the White House.

On a sun-drenched South Lawn, packed with 7,000 guests - including children from both nations - the Prime Minister basked in the warmth of the friendship offered by the U.S. president. Mr Cameron returned it in kind, hailing examples of Anglo-American co-operation in war, diplomacy, science and business and describing Britain and the U.S. together as 'the united states of liberty and enterprise'.

The extravagant ceremony, complete with 19-gun salute, a review of troops and marching fifers in colonial-era uniforms, was a far cry from the more low-key welcome offered to Mr Cameron's predecessor Gordon Brown shortly after Mr Obama's arrival at the White House, when the new president was keen to signal that his interests were directed towards Asia. Now seeking re-election with several years experience of military co-operation with the UK in Afghanistan and Libya, Mr Obama was emphatic about the enduring value of what he terms the transatlantic 'essential relationship'. 

The president said: 

'Our world has been transformed over and over and it will be again. 'Yet through the grand sweep of history, through all its twists and turns, there is one constant - the rock-solid alliance between the United States and the United Kingdom. 'The reason is simple - we stand together, we work together, we bleed together and we build together, in good times and in bad, because when we do, our nations are more secure, our people are more prosperous, our world is a safer and better and more just place.'

He added:

'Our alliance is essential, it is indispensable to the prosperity and security that we seek not only for our own citizens but for people around the world.' He won laughter from the Prime Minister and the crowd by slipping into British English to tell Mr Cameron: 'We are chuffed to bits that you are here, I'm looking forward to a great natter, I'm confident that we are going to keep the relationship between our two great nations absolutely top notch.' Mr Cameron responded that the relationship between the U.S. and UK had produced 'the most powerful partnership for progress that the world has ever seen'. Britons and Americans were 'kindred spirits' with a belief in creativity, innovation and risk-taking, who were ready to back their words with actions, he added. 'When the chips are down, Britain and America know we can always count on each other, because we are allies, not just prepared to say the right thing, but to do the right thing and to do it in the right way,' said Mr Cameron. He sought to remind Americans of the importance of their shared economic ties at a time when U.S. attentions are increasingly directed towards rising Pacific giants like China. British direct investment in the U.S. was 140 times that of China and total foreign direct investment between the two states, at $900billion (£570billion), was the largest in the world.

Both leaders were keen to stress how they had deepened their personal relationship with a trip to watch basketball in Ohio last night. Mr Cameron joked that he had learnt some new words - 'alley-oops, brackets and fast breaks' - and might even install a hoop in 10 Downing Street.

After waving from the White House balcony with their wives - Samantha Cameron in turquoise and blue Roksanda Illinic dress, LK Bennett shoes and an Emilia Wickstead belt; Michelle Obama in an ivory skirt-suit - the two leaders retired to the Oval Office for two hours of talks which form the main business of Mr Cameron's three-day visit.

Top of their agenda will be the timetable for withdrawal of allied troops from Afghanistan, with the leaders expected to seek a date in 2013 when lead security responsibilities can be handed over to home-grown troops. 

That date - possibly as early as next summer - will not be finalised until the Nato summit in Chicago in May and no announcements of further troop drawdowns are expected today. They will also discuss Syria, where Mr Cameron has said he wants to see 'transition not revolution', with political and economic pressure wielded to force Bashar Assad from power. 

He and Mr Obama are not expected to consider more radical measures, such as supplying arms to the rebels. This evening, Mr Obama will host a state dinner for the Camerons in the White House, with British stars including Homeland actor Damian Lewis and Northern Irish golfing champion Rory McIlroy among the guests and English folk revivalists Mumford & Sons performing.

Femi Otedola's £12 million luxury Yacht

Femi Otedola owns this toy, anchored to the Lagos Lagoon. Femi daytime job is manipulating prices of diesel, kerosene and petrol (gasoline) at various Nigerian ports of entry. 

It is Nigeria's equivalent of cocaine peddling, but a Mexican drug lord made it to the Forbes billionaire list, so, why not Nigerian crooks? Femi did not pay import duties on the yacht, so what, he doesn't pay import duties on anything period! 

This is "Nana" Femi Otedola's luxurious yacht. It is the latest in high end recreational boats and the cynosure of all at the pier in front of Zenon House on Eleke Crescent, Victoria Island. The captain is of course a white man and from all indications, Mr Otedola is out to take care of his boat which must cost a pretty penny. This is how the rich relax.

I HAVE ALWAYS SAID IT THAT, THERE IS NO LEGITIMATE BUSINESS MAN IN NAIJA. THEY MONOPOLISE TO INFLATE COMMODITIES TO THE DETRIMENT OF THE PEOPLE, WITH THE HELPS OF THERE BENEFACTORS IN GOVERNMENTS. IF BILL GATE, AN INVENTOR COULD BE SANCTION FOR MONOPOLISING HIS OWN INVENTION IN AMERICAN & EUROPE THAN, PEOPLE LIKE DANGOTE, OTEDOLA ETC WOULD BE ALLOW TO MONOPOLISED IMPORTATIONS AND COMMODITIES IN NAIJA. IT SPEAKS VOLUMES OF THOSE RULING US.

I once said it that I did not and do not have much respect for a lot of the so called Nigerian businessmen/women. To him, this is more evidence of our business moguls, their modus operandi and purported business acumen. 

Most of them do nothing but steal their way to a lot of money accruing from crude oil sales and stake their claim to being businessmen. They cannot compete on an honest level and have to stoop to underhanded methods to stay in business. Having said all... I will not take away credit from this guy... Femi Otedola is an intelligent man who is happily married to Nana, with 3 daughters and one son. They all reside in London.

Men's Fashion Tips : How to Tie a Triangle Tie

A triangle knot is similar to the Windsor knot when tying neckties, as it creates a perfectly symmetrical triangle-shaped knot. Tie a triangle tie like a pro withfashion tips from the co-owner of a hip clothing store in this free video on men’s apparel.

Tie The Tie According To The Tie

One has to be presentable in the office environment as all eyes set upon you when enter the office premises. Women look good by applying sufficient makeup but for the other gender. Men have to work on their shoes as they should be shiny; the dress to be wrinkled free and the tie is neatly knotted in the centre. 

The dress and the shoes can be arranged, but the tie is our main concern. It is time consuming for some, but one ought to master this art. The tie and its knot should reflect sufficient style trademark and an elegant look. Though ties’ color is an important factor but it is the knot that does the wonders. 

One can choose from numerous types of tie knots. The famous Windsor knot or full/double Windsor is named after the Duke of the Windsor. It is usually worn by men on formal occasions. The event may be your best friend’s wedding, a presentation at the workplace or a college admission interview. It should be worn on a shirt having a cut-away collar to enhance the triangle shape of the tie. A more modernized look of the Full-Windsor tie knot is known as the half-Windsor knot. It conveys a more easy going approach as compared to the full Windsor knot. Wider ties are used for this knot with typical collar size. 

Another popular tie knot is the Four-in-Hand, also known as a school boy knot. It gives a long and narrow shape to the tie. This knot is used with ties having a wide tab. The collar may be spread wide enough for this type having a pointed end. It evokes a somewhat carefree attitude of the bearer. 

A dense and complicated look can be achieved if one learns the Prince Albert look. It requires narrow ties made of soft and light fabric materials; only then the required look can be achieved. Its advisable to wear it on a shirt with a collar pointed at the outer end. Prince Albert’s knot will define a long tie as it has a wide knot, easily noticed by others. 

Ready-made clip-on knots are also available in the market, imitating a real one. They may be used when in haste but should be avoided as may portray a negative image in front supervisors. Bow ties also look classy with bright colors of the scarves. The trend got started back in 17th century when the upper classes were observed with it around their necks. It’s not necessary for the tie to be expensive. 

The main point is to have the right type of tie knot, depending upon the occasion and also the personality of the personnel. It creates a positive energy within the individual, helping him to work efficiently. It may promote the career or destroy the hard work as the impression of the tie speaks for the male candidate.

It's here! Apple unveils its newest iPad - it's FOUR TIMES faster, has 3D capability and a sharper picture than an HD TV

It's here! Apple unveils its newest iPad - it's FOUR TIMES faster, has 3D capability and a sharper picture than an HD TV 

Features include retina display, 5 megapixel camera and 4G LTE capability Screen is sharper than most 40-inch living room televisions Latest version powered by high-speed A5x chip Apple boasts picture resolution so crisp that words will appear sharper than words in print

Apple launched its latest version of the iPad on Wednesday, armed with a Full HD display with 3.1 million pixels and a supercharged new processor. The device will be available on March 16 and priced from $499-$829 (£399-£659) - the same range as the iPad 2, which the technology giant launched a year ago. 

The tablet will be powered by a super fast quad-core A5x chip, putting Apple's tablet ahead of competitors such as Samsung. It will also offer a high speed 4G LTE network connection in territories with 4G - in the U.S., it will be available on both the AT&T and Verizon wireless networks.

The network is not yet available in the UK. Scroll down for video Advanced: Apple claims the screen resolution on the new iPad, shown here with Phil Schiller, Apple's senior VP of Worldwide Marketing, is so sharp that the words on the screen are sharper than words in print

Bigger, faster: The third version of the iPad, pictured above, will be available on March 16 and priced at $499-$829. It's powered by a super fast quad-core A5x chip Despite this, Apple claims the battery lasts 10 hours and the device is just 9.4mm thick.

 'Who will come out with a product that's more amazing than the iPad 2?' 

Apple CEO Tim Cook asked the audience at the San Francisco launch event. 'Stop wondering - we are'. FIRST IMPRESSIONS OF NEW iPAD Up close, the new HD screen is very impressive indeed - particularly with apps built to take advantage of it - such as the new version of sky watching app Star Walk which can show 300,000 stars on screen at once.

Even on the home screen, though, icons are stunningly crisp - and printed words in iBooks are so sharp it almost hurts to look at them. With Full HD video, there's a cinematic feel like watching a big flatscreen TV set - except the screen is in your lap. Photos really pop out of the screen - and even ones taken on the device's 5-megapixel camera are crisp enough to zoom right in. 

Overall:

The device doesn't feel a huge amount faster, though - the new processor clearly has its work cut out just keeping the screen going. And despite Apple's boasts, the games still don't look a patch on titles on Xbox 360 or PC - but as developers get to grips with the new hardware, that will change. 

The screen, a larger version of the screen in iPhone 4s, is sharper than most 40-inch HD televisions. Apple claims that the screen resolution is so sharp words on screen are sharper than words in print. Mr Cook said: 'We are taking it to a whole new level and are redefining the category that Apple created with the original iPad'. The new iPad also offers a 5 megapixel iSight camera which can record video in full HD. 

Apple showed off new apps, including new versions of it's iWork apps such as iPhoto. Many apps showed off the power of the new tablet - for instance editing 14 megapixel digital photos in full size on screen. The processor is fast enough to handle a 3D game, Sky Gamblers, with 50 fighter planes battling on screen at once. 

A new version of the hit iPhone title Infinity Blade showed off graphics similar to Xbox 360 and PS3. A fresh edition of the GarageBand music software lets four iPads 'jam' together via Wi-Fi. Also, a newer version of iMovie allows users to record and edit full HD movies right on the screen. The iPhoto app allows photo editing direct on screen, cropping pictures, editing lighting and adding effects such as red-eye reduction and black and White filters via the touchscreen. 

The new iPad will be 9.4 millimeters thick, or 0.37 inches.

More to love:

The new version of the iPad will be slightly fatter and heavier than its predecessor That compares with 8.8 millimeters, or 0.34 inches, for the iPad 2. The weight is going up from 1.33 pounds to 1.44 pounds for the Wi-Fi-only model. 

The original iPad weighed 1.5 pounds. Remembering Steve: Steve Jobs is shown at a previous event. Today's launch is seen as a key test of new CEO Tim Cook's leadership Apple also confirmed that the new model will come in a version that can use Verizon Wireless' and AT&T Inc.'s 'LTE' wireless broadband networks. More... Facebook hit by 'two-hour blackout' across Europe, Middle East and Africa The next TV revolution: Britain's first glasses-free 3D television goes on sale... at the eye-popping price of £7,000 They offer speeds that are faster than the '3G' networks used by previous iPads, and current iPhones. 

The company says the new model also will be four times faster. Apple also unveiled a new model of its Apple TV set-top box which offers full HD films, television and web channels such as YouTube. The new iPad and Apple TV devices will be available on store shelves on March 16. 

The device offers built-in access to Apple's iCloud offering users online access to films they have purchased on other apple devices such as iPhone. Apple announced that films and TV shows in iTunes store would now be available in 1080p, or full high-definition. 

The company also revealed a new, cheaper 'entry level' iPad 2 for $399 - cheaper than any previous model. Mr Cook also left the door open for 'a lot more' innovation in the next year - possibly a reference to the new iPhone 5 widely expected to launch later in 2012. ... AND ONE MORE THING: APPLE UPDATES ITS TV SET-TOP BOX Apple did not announce its widely expected Apple television - instead, Tim Cook unveiled a new model of its Apple TV set-top box which offers full HD films and TV. 

The device is available on March 16.The new version offers built-in access to Apple's icloud offering users online access to films they have purchased on other Apple devices such as iPhone. 

When the device goes on sale next week in the U.S. and several other countries, it will be 'the iPad' or perhaps 'the new iPad' - not 'iPad 3' or 'iPad HD,' as some had speculated. Analyst reaction was favourable to the new device, with some predicting shortages. 'There is no doubt that peopple like Blackberry maker RIM and Google will struggle to compete. 

The key is really the apps - we have seen high resolution screens before, but Apple has 200,000 apps that nobody can compete with,' says analyst Avi Greengart. However, Mr Greengart warned Apple's plan to ship the new iPad to dozens on countries when it launches could cause problems.

 ‘There is going to be a huge amount of demand, so I think simply getting enough units out there is going to be a challenge,’ he said.

 ‘I know I want one, and a lot of other people will too.’ Crystal clear: A scene from the UK drama Downton Abbey is displayed during a test of Apple's latest iPad at an event in London At last! Apple CEO Tim Cook introduces the new iPad during an Apple event today in San Francisco The lack of a new name may cause confusion for buyers, particularly since the older model, the 'iPad 2,' will still be sold. WHAT THE TECHIES ARE SAYING Gizmodo: 'It's almost like looking at a glossy magazine page. It also has much more powerful guts, with a much faster processor, graphics and more memory.' TechCrunch: 'As far as weight and shape, it’s almost exactly the same as the iPad 2. 

They wouldn’t allow comparison shots - probably because the new iPad is a little thicker - but the dimensional differences are minor and the overall feel is near-identical.' Engadget: 'By and large, the new guy is the same as the old guy (Home button included), but with a few nice amenities that could very well convince owners of earlier iPads to upgrade. 

Upon touching the HD variant, it's not the overall form factor that grabs us -- it's the screen.' TechRepublic: 'Apple is trying hard to get us to see the iPad as more than just a consumption device. It clearly wants this to be a viable option for more and more users to consider instead of a laptop.' Last year, Apple sold 172 million of what it described as post-PC devices - iPhones, iPads and touchscreen iPods. 

The company has now sold 315 million devices running its iOS operating system. Apple had sold more than 55 million iPads around the world as of January this year. In the run-up to launch, the new gadget ignited a frenzy among fans. Data company Experian Hitwise says that one in 2000 of all internet searches have been for terms related to iPad 3 over the past week. 'Demand for the iPad 3 online reached its peak in the last week as 1 in every 2000 searches online were iPad 3 related,' says the company. Some industry experts are even predicting the end of personal computers as touch-screen tablet-style computers grow in popularity. 

Apple announced that more than 25 billion apps have been downloaded from its App Store by customers. Long lines formed outside Apple’s flagship store in Regent Street in central London two years ago as hundreds vied to get their hands on the original iPad when it was launched. 

APPLE iPAD 2
Screen size: 9.7 inches
Weight: 601g Depth: 8.8mm
Screen resolution: 1024x768
Processor: 1Ghz Apple A5
Storage: 16GB-64GB
Camera: 720p, 30 frames per second
Connections: Wi-fi, 3G, Bluetooth,
Apple 30-pin connector LATEST iPAD VERSION
 Screen size: 9.7 inches
Weight: 653g
 Depth: 9.4mm
Screen resolution: 2048x1536
Processor: 1Ghz Apple A5X
Storage: 16GB-64GB
Camera: 1080p, 30 frames per second
Connections: 4G LTE Wi-Fi (Verizon and AT&T),
Bluetooth 4.0,
Apple 30-pin connector

A tale of two iPads:

The new Apple iPad (left) is shown next to its predecessor, the iPad 2 (right) at a launch party at Kings Place, London

COULD THE NEW IPAD COST YOU THOUSANDS IN DATA BILLS? 

 One of the unannounced new features of the update to Apple's operating system, iOS5.1 is that it discreetly raises the limit for iTunes downloads via the phone network from 20MB to 50MB - allowing for apps that cater to iPad's new Retina screen. 

Just 20 such downloads could eat up the full capacity of many data plans. 

Tech site Tecca warns, 'Combine the realities of multimedia file size and a blazing fast connection that allows transfer of said files at unprecedented speeds, and you have a recipe for potentially expensive disaster.' 

Apple was forced to push back its original late April UK launch date because of ‘overwhelming demand’ for the device in the U.S. The company sold more than one million iPads in the U.S. in the first 100 days making it a better seller than the iPhone. Sarah Rotman Epps, an analyst for Forrester Research, said the device's Android competition has failed because most technology companies fail to see that the 'apps' are more important than the hardware. 'It's about the services - what you can do with the device,’ she said in a blog post. 

Apple's competitors have slowly come to realize this, but only after bringing out dozens of tablets with whiz-bang features like 3-D cameras. Media get a hands on demo of the iPad during an Apple event 

THE MACHINE THAT ENDED THE PC ERA - HOW STEVE JOBS' VISIONARY MACHINE CHANGED THE WORLD

Apple's iPad has changed the face of computing forever. The company sold more than one million iPads in the US in the first 100 days after launch. It was a faster seller than the iPhone. 

The device has now led many tech experts to question whether the 'PC' as we know it now can continue to exist. 

Even Microsoft's upcoming Windows 8, due later this year, incorporates support for tablet devices - a huge sea-change for the company. It's a tribute to the legendary instincts of late Apple founder Steve Jobs. iPad was not the first touchscreen computer - but it perfected the formula. 

When Bill Gates unveiled the 'Tablet PC' several years before Steve Jobs's device, it was a dismal failure, crippled by unresponsive touchscreens and low-powered machines. But the easy-to-use, simple iPad cracked the formula. Within a year, rivals such as Samsung, Toshiba and Sony were scrambling to create their own versions. 

The company’s last release was the iPhone 4S - complete with voice recognition software - which went on sale in October. It was launched just nine days after Apple’s pioneering former chief executive Steve Jobs died following a lengthy battle with pancreatic cancer. 

The launch was seen as a key 'test' for new CEO Tim Cook. The competitor that has done the best is Amazon.com Inc. Its Kindle Fire tablet is cheaper than the iPad, and also tied into Amazon's book, movie and music stores, making it an easy route to entertainment, just like the iPad. Still, the Kindle Fire has a long way to go. Epps estimates that Amazon sold 5.5 million Kindle Fires in the fourth quarter of last year. Meanwhile, Apple sold 15.4 million iPads, and has sold 55.3 million in total. 

According to Canaccord Genuity, 63 percent of the tablets shipped last year were iPads. The only competitors with more than 5 percent market share were Amazon and Samsung. 

The iPad launch comes as Apple has reached a rare milestone: last week, it was worth more than $500billion. Only six other U.S. companies have been worth that much, and none have held that valuation for long. On Tuesday, Apple's stock had fallen, bringing its market value down to $494billion, but analysts believe it the company is worth closer to $550billion.

http://www.dailymail.co.uk/home/index.html

Messi hits record five as Barcelona rout Bayer Leverkusen in Nou Camp

Messi hits record five as Barcelona rout Bayer Leverkusen in Nou Camp

Lionel Messi broke his own Champions League record as he scored five goals in Barcelona's 7-1 demolition of Bayer Leverkusen in their second leg last 16 tie Wednesday.

The World Player of the Year had set the previous best of four against Arsenal two season ago and proceeded to go one better with a dazzling display in the Nou Camp. He now has 12 goals from seven Champions League matches this season as the defending champions waltzed into the quarterfinals 10-2 on aggregate against their unfortunate German opponents.

"You can expect anything from Leo," teammate Cesc Fabregas told AFP. "

He is the best player in history, we have never seen anyone like him." He is the best player in history, we have never seen anyone like him says Cesc Fabregas Trailing 3-1 from the first leg, the Bundesliga side could not contain Messi as he scored twice before the break in the 25th and 42nd minutes. 

Messi claimed his hat-trick early in the second with a lob after he eluded a static Bayer defense from a Fabregas through pass. Youngster Chritian Tello added Barca's fourth, again set up by former Arsenal star Fabregas. 

Messi then scored from a tight angle for his fourth after a defensive error and goalkeeper Bernd Leno was at fault again as he allowed a weak Tello shot to go in for the sixth. Messi's fifth with six minutes to go was unstoppable before Karim Bellarabi scored a consolation for the visitors.

Take reins at Chelsea? You must be joking! Guardiola laughs off Blues talk

Take reins at Chelsea? You must be joking! Guardiola laughs off Blues talk Barcelona manager Pep Guardiola has laughed off speculation linking him with the vacant Chelsea post. The 41-year-old is considered one of the bookies' favourites for the Stamford Bridge vacancy alongside former Blues boss Jose Mourinho and ex-Liverpool manager Rafa Benitez. Guardiola has enjoyed incredible success during his time at the Barcelona helm, but has only ever signed one-year contract extensions at the Nou Camp.

Centre of attention: Guardiola has been linked with Stamford Bridge post Speculation is rife over his future once again as he has yet to put pen to paper on a new deal, but he today laughed off talk that he would replace Andre Villas-Boas, who left the club on Sunday and was replaced by Roberto Di Matteo until the end of the season. Asked if there had been any contact, he said sarcastically: 'I speak every day with Chelsea. 'Villas-Boas seems like a great coach. The time (managers get) depends on the results, not on our abilities. I'm not capable of judging the reasons for his dismissal.' While Guardiola shrugged off speculation, Germany coach Joachim Low refused to comment on reports linking him with the vacancy. The 52-year-old was reported to have met with Chelsea owner Roman Abramovich in a Geneva hotel to discuss the position, but the west London club denied any such meeting took place.

All smiles: The Barca boss shares a joke in training days after AVB took charge of his last game at Chelsea

Low is in the Swiss city fulfilling a commercial obligation with German Football Federation sponsors Mercedes-Benz, but declined to discuss the issue. 'I have a contract as national team coach until 2014,' he told German tabloid Bild. 'The European Championships start in three months and everyone knows my goal. I see no reason for me to comment on media speculation.' Tottenham boss Harry Redknapp and his Swansea counterpart Brendan Rodgers were both far more forthcoming about replacing Villas-Boas, confirming they would not be interested in taking the Chelsea hot seat.

Arsenal 3 AC Milan 0 (agg 3-4): Triple trauma! Brave Gunners put three past Italian giants but just miss out on quarter-final spot

Arsenal 3 AC Milan 0 (agg 3-4): Triple trauma! Brave Gunners put three past Italian giants but just miss out on quarter-final spot Once again they gave us our money’s worth. Don’t they always? Once again they raised our heartbeats to a gallop. This time, though, Arsenal failed. Just. They could not atone for the sins of the San Siro. Arsene Wenger’s remarkable, flawed football team have now scored 15 times in their last three games at the Emirates. No wonder the people keep coming. Here, though, the 16th goal of this remarkable sequence — the one that would have taken this tie to extra time — eluded them. There was to be no miracle.

Game over: Arsenal's brave challenge ended in failure at the Emirates MATCH FACTS Arsenal: Szczesny, Sagna, Koscielny, Vermaelen, Gibbs, Rosicky, Song, Oxlade-Chamberlain (Chamakh, 75) , Walcott (Park Chu-Young, 84), Van Persie, Gervinho. Subs not used: Fabianski, Djourou, Jenkinson, Miquel, Ozyakup. Booked: Sagna, Gibbs, Song. Scorers: Koscielny 7, Rosicky 26, Van Persie 43. AC Milan: Abbiati, Abate, Mexes, Thiago Silva, Mesbah (Bonera, 89), Nocerino, Van Bommel, Emanuelson, Ibrahimovic, Robinho, El Shaarawi (Aquilani, 70). Subs not used: Amelia, Zambrotta, Ganz, Yepes, Roma. Booked: Van Bommel, Abate, Nocerino, Ibrahimovic. Referee: Damir Skomina (Slovenia) . Attendance: 59,000. Four down from a dismal first leg in Italy, Arsenal needed something special. Goals in the first half from Laurent Koscielny, Tomas Rosicky and, of course, Robin van Persie ensured that, with 45 minutes remaining, they had every chance of producing it. Sadly, though, the final act lacked romance. The second half failed to produce another goal and Arsenal are out of the Champions League. Most unusually, Van Persie — the only consistently bright light of Arsenal’s murky season — will have cause for regret today. Just before the hour last night the Dutchman was presented with a simple chance to draw Arsenal level in the tie after Gervinho’s deflected shot came back to him from the goalkeeper’s legs. This time, though, he couldn’t score. His dink from seven yards was repelled by Christian Abbiati’s flailing, desperate arm and Arsenal’s only real opportunity of the second half had gone. Should Van Persie — the most cultured of footballers — just have put his foot hard through the back of the ball? Probably.

Heads up: Koscielny nods the Gunners in front after just seven minutes (and below)

Had Arsenal scored at that stage, they surely would have gone on to win. Milan, so dreadful in the first half, would surely have been sunk. As it was, Milan managed to shed some of the impotency of the opening period to go on to play quite well. Having clearly decided that the best way to stem the tide was to try and score a goal of their own, the Italians were actually the better team in the second half. What a night this was, though. What a tribute to Wenger’s remarkable powers of motivation that his team came so close. At two down here to Tottenham only 10 days ago, Arsenal’s season seemed over. Since then they have scored 10 times.

Brief hope: Arsenal came very close to overturning the 4-0 deficit - Rosicky doubled the hosts' lead Arsenal needed to start well, needed to cause their opponents that flutter of anxiety that comes with early pressure. In the seventh minute the Gunners had the lead and Milan were looking at each other like strangers. The goal was a frightful moment for the away side, one of many in the first half. Alex Oxlade- Chamberlain — impressive in bursts — took a corner from the left and Koscielny drifted unchecked across at least two Milan defenders to head down into the goal from seven yards out. On the touchline, Wenger was only moderately excited. He knew how far his team still had to go. Crucially, though, Milan looked as anxious as Arsenal looked carefree. Coming in to the game with such a big lead, the Italians didn’t know whether to stick or twist. For long spells, they did neither.

Van the man: Arsenal's leading goalscorer made it three for the Gunners from the spot (and below) Arsenal, sensing their opponents’ hesitancy, kept pressing. Van Persie and Rosicky should have carved out a chance when presented with possession in the 16th minute. Their failure to make the right passing choices was surprising but ultimately didn’t matter as before too long Arsenal were two up and the chase was really on. This time the danger came from the right as Theo Walcott reached the byline. His low cross really shouldn’t have troubled the esteemed Brazilian defender Thiago Silva but his clearance was weak and landed straight at Rosicky’s feet. A second later the ball was in the bottom corner. Milan were so poor — as bad as Arsenal had been in the San Siro — that they were already looking frantically for half-time. Time to reorganise and draw breath. They weren’t to get there without further damage, though.

Starring role: Oxlade-Chamberlain was in fine form for Arsene's Gunners Oxlade-Chamberlain drove down the right in the 44th minute and was sandwiched by Djamel Mesbah and Antonio Nocerino as he cut devilishly into the penalty area. Van Persie scored the resulting penalty emphatically with his left foot and it was hard now not to make Arsenal favourites. Shell-shocked by what had happened, Milan managed to break in first-half injury time and Robinho played Stephan El Shaarawy clear on goal. Had he scored then Arsenal would have needed another three to progress. The shot, though, was so bad it didn’t even strike the side-netting. It summed up Milan’s efforts. In the second half, however, Arsenal struggled to maintain their remarkable momentum and Milan — perhaps reminded of their responsibilities by coach Massimiliano Allegri — found a little of their true selves.

Incredible miss: Van Persie squandered a guilt-edged chance to make it 4-0 Robinho played in Zlatan Ibrahimovic only for Wojciech Szczesny to save at his feet and then Urby Emanuelson curled a free-kick over the bar. Soon came Van Persie’s chance. Abbiati will reflect on a terrific double save. Van Persie, though, will be extremely disappointed. Arsenal’s night fell flat after that. Their legs couldn’t propel them to the ultimate glory and — in truth — Milan looked the more likely scorers in the final 30 minutes. Behind the goal at one end, an Arsenal fan held a banner aloft from first minute to last. It said simply: ‘We Believe’. In the end, belief wasn’t quite enough. The mountain proved too high. This, though, was some effort. Read more: http://www.dailymail.co.uk/sport/football/article-2111184/Arsenal-3-AC-Milan-0-agg-3-4--Gunners-gallant-comeback-falls-just-short.html#ixzz1oPpxlvcD

Chelsea must pay Mourinho £12m a year and sign Ronaldo for return of Special One

Chelsea must pay Mourinho £12m a year and sign Ronaldo for return of Special One Jose Mourinho will demand £12million-a-year and Chelsea break the bank to sign Ronaldo if asked to return to Stamford Bridge. Owner Roman Abramovich will also have to let the Portuguese have 'total control' of transfers and the training ground.

True cost: Chelsea will have to pay high price to lure back Jose Mourinho Mourinho is high on Abramovich's wanted list to replace sacked Andre Villas-Boas. Roberto di Matteo has been placed in temporary charge of the Blues until the end of the season. Mourinho is expected to leave the La Liga leaders in the summer after falling out with Real president Florentino Perez. Mourinho was spotted house-hunting in London last week and he has already stated his his intention to return to the Premier League.

Fed up: Real Madrid's Cristiano Ronaldo Ronaldo is also said to have grown disillusioned with life at the Bernabeu after the fans turned on him despite scoring 96 goals in 88 games since his world record £80m move from Manchester United. Abramovich has also reportedly sounded out Barcelona coach Pep Guardiola, who's contract expires in the summer. But sources in Spain expect the 41-year-old to stay for at least one more season at the Nou Camp. Germany coach Joachim Low has also been linked with the Chelsea hot seat, but claims in Switzerland that he met Abramovich at a Geneva hotel were denied. His present contract runs until 2014.

Happy 70th birthday to Pastor Enoch Adeboye

The RCCG General Overseer turns 70 today Wishing him many more prosperous year. New more anointing and more blessing to him and his entire family. God bless you sir......

SANI KAITA: I‘LL REMAIN GRATEFUL TO KESHI | Blog | Complete Sports

SANI KAITA: I‘LL REMAIN GRATEFUL TO KESHI | Blog | Complete Sports

Welcome to Folabak's Blog: 'LIFE WITHOUT LIMBS' AUTHOR Honeymoons in Hawaii

Welcome to Folabak's Blog: 'LIFE WITHOUT LIMBS' AUTHOR Honeymoons in Hawaii: Australian motivational speaker and author of "Life Without Limbs"  Nick Vujicic  hung out on the beach taking pics of his hot new wife K...

Dereck Chisora & David Haye could face lifetime boxing bans

Dereck Chisora and David Haye may face life bans for their Munich brawl says the British Boxing Board of Control General Secretary, 

 "It's a possibility," Smith told BBC Radio 5 live. "The board have many powers. They can fine, they can suspend and they can withdraw a licence." Haye and Chisora clashed after Chisora's defeat by defending WBC heavyweight champion Vitali Klitschko.


Haye threw a tripod during the brawl German police want to question Haye after releasing Chisora without charge. The British Boxing Board of Control (BBBofC) said a misconduct investigation had been opened into Chisora's
 "behaviour...prior, during and after" the Klitschko fight. "A further statement will be issued once the stewards have decided on what action will be taken," the BBBofC said.

"With regard to Mr David Haye, Mr Haye is not a licensed boxer with the British Boxing Board of Control and therefore no longer under our jurisdiction." 

Although Haye has retired from the sport, the board could choose to effectively ban him by denying him a licence if he seeks to fight again. Chisora and his trainer Don Charles had been arrested at the city's airport following the scrap at a post-fight news conference late on Saturday night. 

Although local officers want to contact Haye, Chisora's promoter Frank Warren says he understands the former WBA champion has returned to the UK. The Metropolitan Police told the BBC they have had no contact yet from German police in relation to Haye. Use accessible player and disable flyout menus

The scenes unfolded after Haye showed up at the news conference to confront Klitschko, who he believes changed his mind on a potential fight between the pair. But that sparked a verbal exchange with Chisora and the pair squared up to each other before a brawl ensued.

Chisora accused Haye of "glassing him", before saying at least four times that he would shoot the former WBA heavyweight champion. He added: "If David don't fight me, I am going to physically burn him." Smith said the scuffle ranked among of the lowest moments in British boxing history.

 "I'm very disappointed and very saddened that in a sport I love I have to deal with this," he said. "I have to speak to the German Boxing Federation and German police and then take appropriate action. This is not good, it's bad, we have to deal with it accordingly." 

Haye was not at his hotel on Sunday morning and failed to turn up for his scheduled flight. It is understood officers went to Haye's hotel in the early hours of Sunday morning and were knocking on doors and questioning guests in a bid to find the former world heavyweight champion. 

After being detained, Chisora was told by police that he was free to return to England. He made no comment after arriving back at Heathrow at 2200 GMT on Sunday. Chisora arrived at the airport to return home, but was stopped by police, who detained him at their Munich headquarters. Use accessible player and disable flyout menus

Warren 'disgusted' with brawl He has had part of his fight purse withheld by the World Boxing Council after slapping Klitschko at the pre-fight weigh-in on Friday. Chisora spat water towards Klitschko's brother, Wladimir, moments before Saturday night's bout began. More controversy followed when Chisora exchanged words with the Klitschko brothers after the result was announced.

But there were inevitable suspicions that the whole incident was a publicity stunt to whip up interest in a lucrative fight between the two Britons. It happened on Saturday night, after Chisora lost on points to Ukrainian Vitali Klitschko. Injury: Adam Booth, trainer of David Haye, bleeds from a nasty gash on his forehead. He claimed to have been 'glassed' during the brawl Haye, who had been commentating on the bout for a boxing cable channel, became involved in a slanging match with Zimbabwean-born Chisora as they poured scorn on each other's record. After Haye apparently hit Chisora while holding the bottle, catching him on the chin 

Chisora shouted: 'He glassed me!' The two men then grappled and their entourages became involved in the melee. 

Haye was seen trading punches with Chisora's trainer Don Charles before swinging a camera tripod over his head. Adam Booth, Haye's trainer-manager, suffered a cut forehead and also claimed to have been 'glassed'. 

Chisora reappeared clutching a bottle but was wrestled under control. Chisora and Charles were yesterday arrested at Munich Airport on suspicion of grievous bodily harm as they attempted to fly back to London, but were freed without charge. 

Haye had left his hotel in Munich by 4.30am, minutes before police arrived to question him. He returned briefly to his London home before leaving for a secret location. A spokesman for Munich police said: 'Given the events of Saturday evening, a criminal investigation is required.' Officers will present a file to prosecutors today recommending Haye be charged with affray, assault and threatening behaviour. 

If prosecuted he could face a jail sentence or a hefty fine, as financial penalties in Germany are levied according to income. When former Oasis frontman Liam Gallagher was involved in a punch-up at a Munich hotel in 2002, he was fined a total of £170,000. Chisora has already been ordered to pay £31,500 to a charity for slapping Klitschko at the weigh-in, and spitting water at his brother Wladimir moments before the fight. Claims of the post-bout brawl being a publicity stunt were fuelled by a comment from Frank Warren when Haye began to goad Chisora at the press conference. 

Warren was heard to say: 'I've got a great idea. If Dereck fights David, the winner fights Vitali.' Klitschko's manager Bernd Boente responded: 'Sounds like the perfect plan.' Asked yesterday if the clash was a set-up, Warren said: 'If you think somebody wants to wind up getting hit with a bottle and wind up in a police station while the other guy can't be found... you've just got to be a complete moron to come up with a suggestion like that.'

ADELE WINS BIG AT THE GRAMMYS

Soul singer Adele triumphed in her return to music's stage on Sunday (February 12), scooping up six Grammys and winning every category in which she was nominated including album of the year for "21" and best record with "Rolling In the Deep." .

She was remembered by fellow artists in acceptance speeches and songs. Jennifer Hudson sang Houston's signature hit "I Will Always Love You," and Grammy host LL Cool J offered a prayer for Houston's family, friends and fans. But it was Adele who stole the show.

The 23-year-old, who has taken the music world by storm, underwent surgery on her vocal cords late last year and had been resting her voice on doctor's orders until music's biggest night. The British singer took the stage to belt out "Rolling In the Deep," and finished to a standing ovation. Adele claimed three of the music industry's top awards, album, record and song of the year, and added best pop solo performance, pop vocal and short video to her stack of trophies.

 "Thank you so much. This is ridiculous," she said upon accepting the record of the year Grammy. "I want to say thank you to every radio programmer and broadcaster that has been playing 'Rolling in the Deep' ... because I know it's not really a pop record." 

 She flashed a big smile and a thumbs up. Rockers Foo Fighters were the other big winners, picking up five Grammys including best rock performance for the hit "Walk."

 "This record was a special record for our band, rather than go to the best studio in the world down the street in Hollywood, and rather than use all the fanciest computers that you can buy, we made this one in my garage with some microphones and a tape machine," said Grohl, before he took his speech as a chance to slam music industry trends like autotune and pitch-correction. 

 "To me, this award means a lot because it shows that the human element of making music is what's most important, singing into a microphone and learning to play an instrument, and learning to do your craft, that's the most important thing for people to do, it's not about being perfect, it's not about sounding absolutely correct, it's not about what goes on in a computer, it's about what goes on in here, and it's about what goes on in here," says Grohl.
As joyous as the show was for Adele, it was equally as serious with tributes to late pop star Whitney Houston, who died suddenly on Saturday, and was found in the bathtub of her Beverly Hills hotel room.
The cause is still unknown.
Other winners at the Grammys include Chris Brown, whose album "F.A.M.E." won best R&B album. The win was a comeback of sorts for Brown, after a four year period of a tarnished public image from fallout for his domestic violence against ex-girlfriend Rihanna, which fell on the weekend of the 2008 Grammy Awards.

New comer Bon Iver took home the prize for best new artist, and Lady Antebellum took the award for best country album.
Kanye West won for best rap album, for "My Beautiful Dark Twisted Fantasy." West did not attend the ceremony.
The full list of winners Record of the Year: –
Rolling In The Deep, Adele Album of the Year – 21,
Adele Song of the Year – Rolling In The Deep,
Adele Best New Artist –
Bon Iver Best Pop Solo Performance –Someone Like You,
Adele Best Pop Duo/Group Performance – Body And Soul ,
Tony Bennett & Amy Winehouse Best Pop Vocal Album – 21,
Adele Best Dance Recording ­- Scary Monsters and Nice Sprites,
Skrillex Best Dance/ Electronica Album - Scary Monsters and Nice Sprites,
Skrillex Best Traditional Pop Vocal Album – Duets II,
Tony Bennett & Various Artists Best Rock Performance – Walk,
Foo Fighters Best Rock Song – Walk, Foo Fighters Best Rock Album - Waiting Light,
Foo Fighters Best R&B Performance – Is This Love,
Corinne Bailey Rae Best R&B Song – Fool For You Best R&B Album – F.A.M.E.,
Chris Brown Best Rap Performance – Otis,
Jay-Z and Kanye West Best Country Solo Performance – Mean,
Taylor Swift Best Country Song – Mean,
Taylor Swift Best Short Form Music Video – Adele

Welcome to Folabak's Blog: Our Ex-president Olusegun Obasanjo' Grandson Turns...

Welcome to Folabak's Blog: Our Ex-president Olusegun Obasanjo' Grandson Turns...:                                                                                                                        ...

Never Forget Old time Friendship!

 

In everyone's life, at some time, our inner fire goes out. It is then burst into flame by an encounter with another human being. We should all be thankful for those people who rekindle the inner spirit. ~Albert Schweitzer


A loyal friend laughs at your jokes when they're not so good, and sympathizes with your problems when they're not so bad. ~Arnold H. Glasgow


The friend is the man who knows all about you, and still likes you. ~Elbert Hubbard, The Notebook, 1927


A good friend is cheaper than therapy. ~Author Unknown


If a friend is in trouble, don't annoy him by asking if there is anything you can do. Think up something appropriate and do it. ~Edgar Watson Howe


The most I can do for my friend is simply be his friend. ~Henry David Thoreau


A true friend never gets in your way unless you happen to be going down. ~Arnold Glasow


But if the while I think on thee, dear friend,
All losses are restored and sorrows end.
~William Shakespeare


The most beautiful discovery true friends make is that they can grow separately without growing apart. ~Elisabeth Foley

NEVER FORGET YOUR OLD TIME FRIENDS BECAUSE THEY ARE YOUR LADER TO THE TOP!

Bayer Leverkusen - FC Barcelona: Europe fall in love (1-3)

Bayer Leverkusen - FC Barcelona: Europe fall in love (1-3) 

Alexis Sanchez has advanced FC Barcelona shortly before ha

lftime after the restart, KADLEC drawn from the Chilean head and once again put the visitors ahead Messi secured the victory with a goal at the end of the game The European champion has returned to racing for the door. Won 1-3 in the first leg of the quarterfinals, a match that had failed to win was never in Guardiola to Bayer Leverkusen Germany. It was an unquestionable victory of players, from beginning to end higher, and it has had on Alexis Sanchez on his decisive man. The Chilean has the advantage to the club twice, while Messi has certified the victory visitors near the end. Before a goal of KADLEC had equalized for the Germans just the beginning of the second half, when Valdes was again decisive. Thus, the Channel FC Barcelona second round with a win authoritarian and lets face with optimism the return game, which will be played on March 7 at the Camp Nou. 

 80% of possession 

Soon it has become clear what kind of game would be. Bayer, with an approach that came to collect up to five defenders and the eleven players in their mid-field, waited behind the closed club. It was a matter of patience for players who triangular left to right looking for some space behind the German defense. The ownership has soared to 80% at times in the first half. A revealing figure. A vital goal For Guardiola only lacked a little depth. The problem lay in the number of attackers Barca front-seven players, the number of local supporters, the eleven-Leverkusen. Thus, only a partnership or an individual genius could overcome the German wall. Bayer O error on the ball, which is ultimately what led to the goal of Alexis. In the game, Messi has attended since the half-depth for the Chilean, who beat Leno with a low shot. 0-1.

Draw KADLEC, Alexis responds

After halftime, and almost in the first approximation to the area of ​​Valdes, the equalizer came from Bayer Leverkusen. The goal has fallen after a move into the area involved, and which ended with a Corluka cross from the right from that headed KADLEC. The shouts of joy BayArena have lasted two minutes. Are those that you need to see Cesc desmarcatge Alexis, who has again overcome Leno on his departure, this time with a sublime dribbling. Doublet of Chile. Silence in Germany. 

Valdes decisive 

With the 1-2 Bayer Leverkusen has left behind his approach ultradefensiu and has taken a step forward. Almost his bet come true were it not for Valdes, who saved three shots hit the Frankish-a-stick from the Germans. The game was gusting from Bayer. In another area, Messi has almost invented the goal of the competition, but the club rejected her vagina before Leno. Then Alexis has rubbed the hat trick with a header after a corner. 

Solve Messi 

The entire second half was much different than the first, much slower, and seemed almost impossible that the game ends 1-2. Indeed, this has not happened, after a new depth in the last club-this time for Alves, who finished with a goal and Messi. The ultimate goal to deal with the return of optimism and love again round in Europe.

How to Write a Personal Profile

Instructions

1.Think about what you want to say about yourself. You want to capture the main points that you feel are reflective of your personality and the things you like and dislike. Paint an accurate picture of who you are without telling your entire life story. Use adjectives and other descriptive words and phrases to describe yourself.

2.Use specifics over generalities. Instead of just saying you like music and sports, list some of your favorite artists or bands and be specific about which sports you enjoy. List specific hobbies you enjoy, places you like to visit and restaurants you frequently visist,Best food, Best Clour and so on.

3.Be honest. Don't exaggerate on details or try to make yourself appear to be someone you're not. If you decide to meet anyone who reads your profile, they will probably find out if you've lied so it's best to present yourself in a truthful manner from the start, beacause if lie is like you are shooting ourself in the head. You never can tell when your profile will bring grate foutune your way.

4.Create a well-rounded view of yourself. Don't just talk about a couple of areas of your life. People have many different things that help make up who they are, such as personality, hobbies, religious or spiritual beliefs, family, education, career, goals, talents, likes, dislikes, and so forth. Touch briefly on any area that you think is important in helping to show who you are.

5.Be confident. Although you're not trying to brag or boast, there's no need to criticize yourself or include things that you don't like about yourself. You might not be happy with certain things about yourself but don't focus on the things you view in a negative light. Being negative will most likely turn people away. You want your profile to be warm and inviting.

6.Avoid trying to answer every question about yourself. Remember, your goal is to show who you are but that doesn't mean you have to try to answer everything you think might arise in the readers' mind. If people have more questions, they can ask you once you're comfortable talking to them.

Your Profile is you, The way you package your profile is the way people will approach or address you. So, do a good packaging of yourself and profile so as to meet your good fortune in future.

DO IT NOW! NEVER PROCASTINATE...
PAPABAKS.
Joshua 1:8.

Why Nigerians Are Left In The Dark...By CNN.

(CNN) -- Surgeons operating with kerosene lanterns and accident victims waiting in dark hospital corridors because there's no light to see their injuries; these are among the realities of life during Nigeria's frequent power outages, according to a group campaigning to improve electricity supply.

Nigeria, the world's seventh largest exporter of oil, has suffered from disruptions to its power supply for decades, and successive governments have struggled to improve the situation.

President Goodluck Jonathan recently launched a strategy that he hopes will bring reliable power to millions of Nigerians.

Amara Nwankpa, a 32-year-old IT consultant who lives in Abuja, set up the website Light Up Nigeria to raise awareness of the power problems and encourage people to report disruptions to their supply.

Nigeria is one of the world's largest producer of fossil fuels so we shouldn't have a problem generating our own electricity.

Nwankpa said: "We have had power problems for as long as I can remember; the best part of three decades.

"Less than half the population has access to grid electricity and those who do typically have power for nine or 10 hours a day, but sometimes go for three or four days with no power at all."

Those who can afford it use generators, but these are costly for individuals and businesses. Nwankpa estimated many householders spend $3,000 to $5,000 a year on fuel for their generators.

A report by the Energy Commission of Nigeria in 2008 estimated that householders spent 796.4 billion naira ($5.1 bn) a year on self-generation.

Nwankpa added: "The small things that affect our lives day to day are that many nights there are no lights to fix dinner, you lose power half way through a haircut, the television goes off in the middle of your favorite football match and there is the noise of generators everywhere."

Industry expert and engineer D.J. Obadote wrote in a report last year that only 10 percent of the rural communities, and 40 percent of the population as a whole, has access to electricity.

In it he said: "Nigeria's economy has been described as a Diesel Generator Economy and small and medium scale businesses incur extremely high overhead cost maintaining their expensive -- economically, environmentally and healthwise -- fossil fuel-powered generators."

In August this year, Nigerian President Goodluck Jonathan unveiled a Power Sector Road Map aimed at ending the chronic shortages.

In the introduction to the Road Map document Jonathan wrote: "I [am] conscious that what we do with the Nigerian electricity supply industry will go a long way in determining whether Nigeria remains in darkness or joins the rest of the world in the race for development."

The Roadmap document estimated that self-generation from diesel and power generators provided more than twice the average output from the grid. It added that Nigeria's per capital electricity consumption was just seven percent of Brazil's and three percent of South Africa's.

Nwankpa said beside the inconvenience of daily life, the power shortages had serious implications for business and the wider economy .He estimated that many companies spend 20 to 30 percent of their turnover on fuel for generators, meaning they can't create jobs or remain competitive.

"It's very difficult to run a business in this kind of environment when you can't predict when you will have power" he said.

"I know of one company that moved its manufacturing to Ghana because they discovered it was cheaper to import products than make them in Nigeria, so many Nigerians lose their jobs."

The Manufacturing Association of Nigeria said last year that 820 manufacturing companies had closed or moved abroad in the past decade, blaming poor power supply among other factors, the country's Vanguard newspaper reported.

Perhaps most serious is the consequence in hospitals.

"There are horrible stories from hospitals which can go for long periods without power when even their generators aren't working," Nwankpa said.

"About a year ago, one of our hospitals had no power for a whole week because its generators weren't working. One night 12 accident victims came in and nobody could treat them because there wasn't any light to see their wounds.

"I have spoken to doctors who have done operations by kerosene lamp, or used the light from their mobile phones to examine patients.

"One of our airports went for 48 hours without any power when its generators weren't working, and they were using lanterns to check passports. A lot of Nigerian streets are dark, which makes them more dangerous."

Nwankpa set up Light Up Nigeria last year through Twitter, encouraging people to give opinions or report serious power problems in their area. He wants to bring power shortages up the political agenda.

"We have so far succeeded in making electricity an issue for the 2011 election. All the candidates have been addressing the issue," he said.

"Nigeria is one of the world's largest producer of fossil fuels so we shouldn't have a problem generating our own electricity. We need to come up with a plan and stick to it."

Others have different ways of addressing Nigeria's power problems with solar power. Solar Jooce and Solar Wizard Nigeria are two organizations trying to spread the use of solar power, particularly among rural communities.

5o years wihtout a constant power supply is a BIG shame to this country.

But one thing is certain that better time are ahead if we tend to learn from our past mistakes, if not their is grate DANGER for most Nigerians in future.

GOD BLESS NIGERIA AND GOD BLESS ME.

The Impact of BRT on Passenger’s Movement in Lagos Metropolitan Area of Nigeria

The Impact of BRT on Passenger’s Movement in Lagos Metropolitan Area of Nigeria


Efficient, effective, reliable and inexpensive public transport provision remain the lifeline of economic, social and environmental wellbeing of increasing urbanization of cities all over the world in the face of globalization and world economies integration. The public transport concept of BRT had been successfully implemented in some developed countries cities and emerging industrialized cities centres as a cost effective option of a modern public transport technologies as metro, light rail and tram service capabilities. This innovation had just been implemented in the Lagos metropolitan area of Nigeria. It is in this light that this study examines the impact of BRT in the passenger’s mobility in the largest metropolitan area of Nigeria. The methodology used in this study is self completion survey method; data were collected on variables of BRT passenger’s mobility effectiveness, efficiency and impacts on problems of mobility in Lagos metropolis. The correlation, pair sample t-test were use for the hypothesis testing, univariate analysis of variance (ANOVA) for subjects interactions effects and multiple regression analysis were tested on the dependent and the independent variable dataset. The study revealed that there is a significant impact of BRT to the passenger’s mobility in Lagos metropolis and highlights the passenger’s constraints while accessing BRT service in Lagos Metropolis.

For more Info please contact
papabaks@gmail.com