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SPECIAL FEATURE: Sustaining achievements of NPFL!

          

The quality of the Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL) is on a path of positive transformation and marked by enhanced transparency, professional management and greater public investment.

While significant progress has been made in the past two years with the help of NPFL strategic partners, GTI Group, maintaining this momentum still requires maximum dedication to core principles that define a top-flight league.

Without mincing words, transparency is now the cornerstone of the NPFL as Nigerians from all walks of life, including those in the diaspora have all noticed a new ray of hope for the game that was nearly in comatose a few years back.

Many thanks to GTI Group, sporting media and the present board of NPFL headed by Hon. Gbenga Elegbeleye for working round the clock to ensure a rebirth of our elite league.

Through clear-cut decision-making processes and publicly accessible data, the league has fostered a culture of trust.

Fans and stakeholders can now monitor teams’ progress, match day outcomes and league decisions, thereby minimizing biases and setting a new bar for accountability in Nigerian sports.

In a game where fair play is everything, NPFL match officials are bound to the highest standards of integrity when it comes to officiating.

The league has now introduced stricter guidelines and oversight to ensure that referees and officials uphold the spirit of fair competition. Regular training and ethical oversight are in place to safeguard the league’s reputation, making sure every match is fair and competitive.

However, through the introduction of The Nigeria Football Fund (TNFF) by GTI Group, fans now have a tangible stake in the NPFL.

This investment model allows Nigerians and other stakeholders to support the league directly thereby fostering a sense of ownership and responsibility through investment in the Fund.

Simply put, TNFF strengthens the bond between the league and its fans, giving the people a say in the future of Nigerian football, while generating financial resources for the sustenance of the elite league.

The pieces of evidence and attestation of a new dawn for NPFL frankly affirm that the managers of the league are seriously committed to a safe environment for match day activities, with zero tolerance for crowd violence.

By enforcing immediate sanctions on players, clubs and fans who engage in disruptive behaviour, the league now underscores the importance of respect and security.

This firm stance preserves the joy of the game for all and upholds the integrity of the NPFL experience. Therefore, the recent ugly incident at Jos should be properly investigated and appropriate sanctions applied accordingly to forestall future occurrences.

Also, upholding professional standards by NPFL means accountability across all levels!

Recently, a popular player that upcoming Nigerian stars look up to threw caution to the winds by making a sweeping statement against a match official and was sanctioned for unprofessional conduct. This simply demonstrates that no one is above the league’s code of conduct.

This approach ensures that all parties, from players to fans, respect NPFL values, thereby reinforcing a disciplined and fair environment for the beautiful game to thrive.

As the NPFL continues its journey, the focus remains on transparency, integrity and public ownership.

Thus, by working together, fans, officials and players can secure a future for Nigerian football that is built on pride, passion, and professionalism as seen in other glamorous leagues in the world.

In every game and every decision, GTI, sporting media and NPFL are building a legacy that Nigerians and her children yet unborn can celebrate and be proud of.

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Obsolete meters: FCCPC to punish DisCos who violate consumers’ rights

The FCCPC has warned it will punish DisCos who violate consumers' rights on the issue of obsolete meters

The Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Commission (FCCPC) has warned that it will punish electricity distribution companies (DisCos) who violate consumers’ rights on the issue of obsolete meters.

The FCCPC issued the warning on Wednesday in a statement signed by the Director, Corporate Affairs, Ondaje Ijagwu, pursuant to Sections 17(j), (l) (s), 116 (2), 124, 125, 138 and 155 of the Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Act (FCCPA) 2018.

“The Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Commission (FCCPC) notes with concern recent rumours that its directive to Ikeja and Eko electricity distribution companies (IKEDC and EKEDC) to immediately cease all activities related to the planned replacement of Unistar meters may be flouted,” Ijagwu said.

“The directive remains in full force, and any attempt by these DisCos to proceed in contravention of it will attract severe consequences.”

Ijagwu said contrary to recent rumours, the approval of new meter prices by the Nigerian Electricity Regulatory Commission (NERC) has no connection with the proposed replacement of Unistar meters by the IKEDC and EKEDC.

According to the statement, the planned replacement has been invalidated by both the FCCPC and NERC, and there is no indication that the affected DisCos have breached the commission’s directives.

As such, Ijagwu said it is essential to clarify that Ikeja and Eko DisCos cannot proceed with the withdrawal or replacement of the Unistar meters unless they fully comply with NERC’s Order on Structured Replacement of Faulty and Obsolete End-user Customer Meters in the Nigerian Electricity Supply Industry (Order No. NERC/246/2021).

He stated that the order mandates that meter replacements must be prompt, without disrupting service and at no cost to the consumer; and ensuring that consumers are not subjected to estimated billing due to delayed installations.

“The FCCPC’s position remains clear: non-compliance with these directives by Ikeja and Eko DisCos will not be tolerated,” Ijagwu said.

“Any breach of this directive will attract stiff penalties in line with the provisions of existing consumer protection laws.”

Consumers have been advised to contact the FCCPC on the commission’s line, 08119877785, dedicated to electricity issues, should they encounter any attempts by Ikeja or Eko DisCos to disobey this directive.

The FCCPC added that it remains unwavering in its commitment to safeguarding the rights of Nigerian consumers against unfair practices by service providers.

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Okpebholo Suspends Revenue Collection in Edo, Issues Arrest Orders for Defaulters

Okpebholo Suspends Revenue Collection in Edo, Issues Arrest Orders for Defaulters

The Governor of Edo State, Senator Monday Okpebholo, announced on Wednesday the immediate halt of all revenue collection activities across the state, especially in motor parks and similar locations, until further notice.

Okpebholo and his deputy, Dennis Idahosa, took their oaths of office on Tuesday, administered by the state’s Chief Justice, Daniel Okungbowa, at Samuel Ogbemudia Stadium.

According to a statement from the governor’s Chief Press Secretary, Fred Itua, the governor has instructed the state Commissioner of Police to apprehend anyone who violates this directive.

The statement read, “The Edo State Governor, Senator Monday Okpebholo, has ordered the immediate and indefinite suspension of all revenue collections in Edo, especially in motor parks and similar areas, until further notice.

“The governor stated that he would review the issues surrounding the collections soon and decide on the way forward.

“The collection of revenues in the state has been suspended indefinitely.”
The governor warned that anyone found collecting revenue on behalf of the state government would face arrest.

“The Commissioner of Police is hereby ordered to arrest anyone who flouts the order and collects any kind of revenue on behalf of the state government.

“The governor will soon address the issues and concerns raised. He will issue new directives shortly. Until then, no one is authorised to collect revenue on behalf of the state government,” the statement stated.

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NDLEA Seizes 709.9kg of Illicit Drugs in Major Operation in Kano

NDLEA Seizes 709.9kg of Illicit Drugs in Major Operation in Kano

In October, the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) in Kano confiscated 709.979kg of illegal drugs in the state.

This information was provided in a statement issued by the agency’s Kano Command spokesperson, ASN Sadiq Muhammad-Maigatari, on Wednesday.

According to the statement, the State Commander of the agency, Mr. Abubakar Idris-Ahmad, also reported the arrest of 129 individuals.

“All the 129 suspects are males.

“The total illicit substances recovered under the period is 709.979kg, which is made up of  309.991kg of cannabis sativa.

”Others are 394.835kg of various psychotropic substances,comprising 741,600 tablets of Tramadol, 2.789kg of pregabalin and 0.027kg of methamphetamine, among others,” he said,

He stated that during this time, the command achieved 22 convictions.

“These convictions serve as a deterrent to those involved in drug-related activities and underscores the agency’s dedication to enforcing the law.

“The suspects arrested have been profiled, and those who deserve prosecution have been charged to court, while others have been referred to the counseling unit for support and rehabilitation,” Idris-Ahmad said.

He praised the Chairman/Chief Executive Officer of the NDLEA, Brig.-Gen. Mohammed Marwa (Rtd), for his steadfast support and motivation, which have played a crucial role in these successes.

The commander also acknowledged the Kano State Government and all other partners for their cooperation and contributions to the ongoing battle against drug abuse.

“The command will continue to work tirelessly in collaboration with all other stakeholders to combat drug trade and promote awareness of the dangers associated with drug abuse” he said

Idris-Ahmad urged the public to contribute to the battle against drug abuse and trafficking by sharing any relevant information with the agency via its dedicated hotlines “0800 1020 3040.”

“Together, we can build a healthier and safer society,” he said.

NAN

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Bobrisky: Tunji-Ojo Vows to Address Institutional Issues, No One Will Be Shielded

Bobrisky: Tunji-Ojo Vows to Address Institutional Issues, No One Will Be Shielded

The Minister of Interior, Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, has commented on the controversy surrounding well-known cross-dresser, Idris Okuneye, commonly referred to as Bobrisky.

The situation, which revolves around accusations of special treatment during Bobrisky’s time in detention, has ignited conversations about broader systemic problems within Nigeria’s institutions.

The widely shared audio clip sparked public outrage and ignited concerns regarding corruption and the lack of accountability in the correctional system.

Tunji-Ojo, during his appearance on Tuesday’s episode of Channels Television’s Politics Today, emphasized the wider consequences of the event, describing it as a“reflection of institutional issues.”

He explained the disciplinary procedures involved in addressing such allegations, stating, “There are disciplinary procedures; you have to go through the board; you don’t just take action. Of course, somebody as high as an ACG who was found culpable of giving those verbal instructions in this regard has been suspended. This is because we said we are not going to shield anybody.”

The minister verified that a report has been handed over to the relevant board, with a copy forwarded to the NCoS to begin disciplinary proceedings.’

“The report is with the board; we have sent a copy to the service themselves because disciplinary actions must start,” he stated.

Tunji-Ojo emphasized that reforming institutions is crucial to avoid the recurrence of similar problems in the future.

“We cannot transfer today’s problem to the future,” he remarked.

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NIWA Clears Lagos Waterways of Hyacinths to Ease Yuletide Traffic

NIWA Clears Lagos Waterways of Hyacinths to Ease Yuletide Traffic

To prepare for a surge in water transportation during the Christmas season, the National Inland Waterways Authority (NIWA) has begun removing water hyacinths from the waterways in Lagos.

In a statement issued on Wednesday, NIWA explained that the effort is designed to facilitate smoother transportation and improve safety for those using the waterways.

Sarat Braimah, the Lagos Area Manager for NIWA, stated that the ongoing work will target key Lagos channels with heavy boat traffic, starting with the Omu Creeks and Ikorodu Water Channels.

NIWA Clears Lagos Waterways of Hyacinths to Ease Yuletide Traffic
NIWA officials at work

She further clarified that the Omu Creeks have been fully cleared, while the Ikorodu channels will require approximately one week of concentrated clearing, which includes removing waste and managing invasive aquatic plants.

Braimah emphasised that the effort aligns with the agency’s key operational mandate “to ensure smooth and safe navigation for boat operators and other stakeholders, particularly as traffic on the waterways is expected to increase during the Yuletide season.”

“As we approach the Christmas season, with an anticipated rise in boat traffic, we want to ensure everything is in order,” Braimah added.
She noted that the season also sees the resurgence of water hyacinths along the waterways in Lagos.

“It’s best to clear them proactively, even though the weeds can reappear. Our goal is to maintain safe passage for boat operations during and beyond the Yuletide,” she added.

The Lagos Area Manager of NIWA also mentioned that the project will be expanded to cover the Badagry and Apapa water channels, although the Ikorodu channel is currently the main focus, as weeds are spreading from there to other coastal areas of Lagos.

“We are working around the clock to sustain this effort, especially with our river marshals deployed to monitor boating operations during this period. It’s a costly and demanding project, but we are fully committed, with our staff out there daily to ensure its success,” Braimah added.

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World

Trump Appoints Elon Musk and Vivek Ramaswamy to Lead New US Government Efficiency Department

Trump Appoints Elon Musk and Vivek Ramaswamy to Lead New US Government Efficiency Department

President-elect of the United States, Donald Trump, has revealed that technology mogul Elon Musk will take on a role within the Department of Government Efficiency.

Musk will work alongside patriotic figure Vivek Ramaswamy, as the two will jointly oversee the department.

This announcement was made in a statement from Trump on Tuesday, November 12, 2024, and was posted on Musk’s X account early Wednesday.

The Republican noted that their appointments will help his administration “dismantle government bureaucracy, slash excessive regulations, cut wasteful expenditures, and restructure federal agencies.”

Former President Donald Trump, 78, who won the 2024 U.S. presidential election against Vice President and Democrat Kamala Harris, stated that the department, widely known as DOGE, will collaborate with the White House and the Office of Management and Budget to “drive large-scale structural reform and create an entrepreneurial approach to government never seen before.”

The statement read, “I am pleased to announce that the great Elon Musk, working in conjunction with American patriot Vivek Ramaswamy, will lead the Department of Government Efficiency (‘DOGE’). Together, these two wonderful Americans will pave the way for my administration to dismantle government bureaucracy, slash excessive regulations, cut wasteful expenditures, and restructure federal agencies — essential to the ‘Save America’ movement. This will send shockwaves through the system, and anyone involved in government waste, which is a lot of people!” stated Mr Musk.

“It will become, potentially, ‘The Manhattan Project’ of our time. Republican politicians have dreamed about the objectives of ‘DOGE’ for a very long time. To drive this kind of drastic change, the Department of Government Efficiency will provide advice and guidance from outside of government and will partner with the White House and the Office of Management and Budget to drive large-scale structural reform and create an entrepreneurial approach to government never seen before.”

“I look forward to Elon and Vivek making changes to the federal bureaucracy with an eye on efficiency and, at the same time, making life better for all Americans. Importantly, we will drive out the massive waste and fraud that exists throughout our annual $6.5 trillion of government spending. They will work together to liberate our economy and make the US government accountable to ‘We the People.’”

“Their work will conclude no later than 4th July 2026. A smaller government, with more efficiency and less bureaucracy, will be the perfect gift to America on the 250th anniversary of the Declaration of Independence. I am confident they will succeed!”

Elon Musk, who owns the social media platform X, electric vehicle company Tesla, and internet provider Starlink, was outspoken in backing the Trump-Vance presidential campaign during the previous election.

He contributed $75 million to a pro-Trump spending organization, as reported by Reuters.

Trump’s cabinet also includes other appointed members, such as:

  • Lee Zeldin — Environmental Protection Agency Administrator
  • Mike Waltz — National Security Advisor
  • Susie Wiles — White House Chief of Staff
  • Tom Homan — Border Czar
  • Elise Stefanik — Ambassador to the United Nations
  • Stephen Miller — Deputy Chief of Staff for Policy

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