Witnessing the 2013 edition of Ifa Festival put together by Olokun Festival Foundation, the cultural promotion arm of Oodua People's Congress led by Otunba Gani Adams, changed virtually all the wrong perception I had about Ifa as a deity and its worshippers as people.
The annual festival was celebrated in June this year at Abule-Ado, Mile 2/Badagry Expressway, Lagos; it was a period of reconnection to traditional root and the occasion re-ignited me as a true born of the Yoruba descent. In Yoruba land, there are many systems of divination used by its people but the most important is Ifa and it remains a central part of the people's existence. However, the arrival of missionaries, colonial masters and Western type of lifestyle, marked the beginning of depletion in the level of interest placed in Ifa as a religion.
These eventually declined Ifa followership both in the local and global cultural market particularly when measured in terms of level of acceptance. Notwithstanding, Ifa culture still resides in the hearts and souls of the Yoruba people. Despite the so many rejections, Ifa adherents continue to accord the religion all reverence and respect it deserves. Surprisingly, Ifa as a religion is equally flourishing in other countries like Mexico, Cuba, Brazil and others due to its practicability.
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In the understanding of many Nigerians, the name Ifa connotes occultism but ideally in Yoruba land, Ifa divinity is supposedly sacred. The adherents of the religion believe that Ifa has the power to unravel any mystery under the earth when consulted on virtually all matters and its accuracy in interpreting issues and Carniproffering solutions where necessary are its unique attributes that attract more devotees. Throughout the festival, there was never a moment that can be described as less captivating.
Initially, seeing the white garments, the amulets worn confidently by some men, the traditional dance steps (uniquely different from the contemporary Azonto dance steps I am familiar with), calabashes and white plates filled with unknown elements, the locally made beads worn on their wrist –all these appeared to me as if I were in a Yoruba movie location of some sort or maybe seated in a cinema watching a stage play of the standard written by the late legendary film maker, Hubert Ogunde.
But it was too real to be termed 'make believe'. One of the major eye-catching features at the scene of the festival was the predominance of white which reflects in everything worn and carried by Ifa worshipers –their ladies tied white wrappers round their chest, some of the men wrapped themselves in white and knotted the ends on their shoulders.
(http://nationalmirroronline.net/new/wp-content/uploads/2013/09/dan-ifa-300x182.jpg) (http://nationalmirroronline.net/new/wp-content/uploads/2013/09/dan-ifa.jpg)
Several others had their white fabrics tailored into Agbadas and Dansikis which basically constitute the traditional dressing for Yoruba men. As explained by some of the priests, the white appearance is one of the cardinals guiding them –it symbolises peace. White is equally believed to be the colour preference that delights Olodumare (God).
Besides, the worshippers were adorned with different kinds of local hairstyles, which majorly depict their positions in Ifa religion hierarchy. I found particularly amusing the hair-do of male Ifa adherent –a major part of his hair was scrapped off but for a small circular patch of hair at the centre of his head.
Another thrilling aspect was the chants, incantations and songs; I can't forget how a particular song, spiritedly recited by the worshipers, kept resonating in my mind days after the festival.
In my own little way of understanding, the song in view is themed around thanksgiving for an accepted sacrifice and I can still recall the line of the chorus which goes: A rubo, ebo gba tan o Ajantere dugbe Arubo ebo gba tan o, Ajantere Dugbe... (2ce) At the festival ground, artefacts, trado-medical products, spiritual aiding items, books on Ifa and others written by the pioneer of the Oodua People's Congress, OPC, Chief Gani Adams were also displayed by exhibitors.
The books, especially, reflect that if proper considerations are given to Ifa, it stands a chance to occupy a saleable culture in the global markets A quest for quick knowledge of how things work in these sphere of life brought me into contact with Iyanifa Olatinwo Omolabake the Guest Speaker at the festival.
The young lady from the Department of Linguistics, African and Asian studies, University of Lagos gave me nifty explanations on Ifa divination. According to her, Ifa is under the custody of a Babalawo (diviner) who has undergone a long training, lasting several years. He divines either with 16 palm nuts (ikin) or with a divining chain (opele). The opele is much quicker to use, but considered to be less reliable.
"The babalawo makes a single or double mark in a tray of powder. He repeats the process eight times, leaving eight sets of marks in the tray in two columns of four.
(http://nationalmirroronline.net/new/wp-content/uploads/2013/09/ifa-cor-300x232.jpg) (http://nationalmirroronline.net/new/wp-content/uploads/2013/09/ifa-cor.jpg)
Each of the marks may be single or double, and there are 256 possible permutations (Odu). The opele is made out of eight seeds or cowries joined together on a chain so that, when the chain is cast on the ground, each can fall face up or face down, corresponding to the single or double marks.
Each of the odu, she says, has its own interpretation, name, rank and ese (verses) associated with it. At every given occasion, the odu will explain why Ifa was consulted, the advice Ifa gives, the sacrifice prescribed and a general moral. The verses are transmitted orally and the diviner is constantly learning new ones throughout his career".
Cultural values cannot be preserved if we continue to have contempt and disrespect for them. It is easier to understand the standpoint of the chief host of the festival, Otunba Adams that cultural values cannot be preserved if we continue to have contempt and disrespect for them.
He stated that apart from Ifa being one of Yoruba's foremost traditional religions, it can be of immense importance to the historical rebirth of Nigeria as a country when celebrated by its people.
National Mirror
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Job Title: Sales Admin Co-ordinator
Location: Lagos, Nigeria
Employer: Nufields Ltd
Requirements:
• This is a challenging position requiring experience in consumer goods marketing, leadership and selling skills.
• B.Sc or HND in relevant discipline.
• Candidates must be result oriented and possess at least 5 years on-the-job experience in a multi-products marketing company.
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Deadline: 17.09.2013
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Vast, one half of the Bracket music group, recently returned to Nigeria after undergoing treatment for blood cancer in the UK. He tells BAYO ADETU about his experience, and the lessons he has learnt
Vast, you're welcome back to Nigeria after the blood cancer ailment that almost claimed your life. How did it happen?
I was feeling very sick, but couldn't go for extensive treatment on time because had many shows and we had been paid up front. So I had to play all the shows, decided to round it off in 2012, so that my treatment can begin in 2013. Even from January, 2013, we still had concerts to play. We had to go to Australia, but then, I was feeling very sick. My family told me not to worry after the gigs, I will go for treatment. So, I was going to a hospital in Nigeria. But they couldn't diagnose what was wrong with me. After some months, the dermatologist advised me travel abroad.(http://cdn.pmnewsnigeria.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/09/%E2%80%A2Vast-407x336.jpg) (http://cdn.pmnewsnigeria.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/09/%E2%80%A2Vast.jpg)•VastWe first applied for normal UK visa but it was difficult. But luckily for us, we saw that they had priority visa. If you have travelled to America, Asian countries or to Australia, you can apply for priority visa, so we applied and within three to four days the visa came out and we went to UK. Luckily for us, we met a friend who said his brother is a doctor. He spoke with his brother and his brother referred us to a dermatologist there who gave us an appointment. They ran another test on me, and within two days, the result came out. That was when I was diagnosed of blood cancer, and the treatment began immediately. It was very difficult. I thought I would lose all the blood in my body but glory be to God. The first chemotherapy was very difficult because I started having problem due to loss of blood, so I had to go to the hospital again and I had blood transfusion.
During this period, what was on your mind?
I was praying. I didn't have any hope, so I was just praying to God and I said I don't know where these things will end. I don't know what's going to happen, so after the second treatment, I started feeling better. I started exercising, because the doctor said, at least you don't have to stay and wait for the medical to work on its own, you have to exercise. It was shortly after the third chemotherapy that I was getting back to human being because I was dead already.
What did the doctor say was the cause of the blood cancer?
I asked the doctor, but he said 'let's leave the cause for now'. He said it's just like when two black people make love and when the baby came out, it's an albino. If such people ask you why they are delivered of albino, you won't know how to explain. I felt relieved when he said this.
What gave you courage during this tough period?
When I was in the hospital, my partner was doing a very good job. He will call a producer, they will make a beat and send it to me. First of all, what kept me going was God because I saw myself dying but we got the finance to deal with the situation, which was the work of God. Besides, we were lucky to quickly meet a doctor who specialises in cancer and lungs treatment. Part of what gave me courage was my family, my partner, my C.E.O, and my manager. They were there for me, all of them travelled with me and made sure I did what I was supposed to do. They made sure I drank my juice, they made sure I took my medication, this is the second courage. When my hospital picture leaked, I was stronger because my fans prayed for me. Someone was even saying if this guy dies, I'm going to die, and I was like 'oh my God, I have to survive.' Also, the media encouraged me.
What lessons have you learnt from this?
First of all, I learnt that life is very precious. No matter what you do, no matter where ever you are, don't look down on anybody because you don't know who will help you tomorrow. Another thing is that you don't have to be scared of death; live your normal life. At a point, I was very scared, that was when the sickness was weighing me down, but when I started getting all this courage, I stood up, I started exercising and I wasn't scared anymore.
How did the symptoms start?
I was having chest pain from time to time. So we went to the doctor who gave me some drugs, but after some time, the pain will return. It got so bad in October last year –that was when I really fell sick. All the hospitals I visited in Nigeria tried their best, but I think it wasn't enough because after three months, they could not diagnose anything. Some doctors will say they suspect tuberculosis, this one will tell us that I think I suspect growth. But when we got to London, I did a test, and within two days, the result came out showed that I had blood cancer.
Here in Nigeria, cancer patients are treated like animals because they lack the funds for treatment. To get cancer drug is very difficult and very costly. One chemotherapy costs up to N1.4 million, and you are going to have eight circles, so for them in Nigeria, before they even give you the treatment, you have to prove that you will be able to pay, so if you are not able to pay, they will just keep you in the hospital.
How do you think the situation can be improved in Nigeria?
That is why we have made up our minds to float a Cancer Foundation. We have spoken to some people about the foundation and they like the idea. At least every year, we should treat like 10 cancer patients. If we work on it and every Nigerian contributes and makes it work, before you know it, we can have a cancer free Nigeria. It is very possible. If you set up a cancer centre, there is a machine that once the machine scans you, it will detect it earlier. You can even kill it with normal drugs or antibiotics. Some people say cancer is a big man sickness, but now, it's like malaria because you don't know what causes it. Some people were asking if I smoke, but the truth is that I don't. In the London hospital, smoking was the least thing that caused many people's cancer.
If you have the life, spend it well, express your life and have fun. Well, I will say that whatever you believe in, just pray to that thing; if you believe in God, if you believe in whatsoever, if you believe in Allah, make sure you pray. In the past, I didn't take prayers seriously, but now I'm a serious person. If you will have to stay with me, you will have to pray with me at least three times a day. It's not my fault my brother, I just have to. Before, I just pray, but now I can say I have a conversation with God because of this. I'm sorry, I don't use to do it before but now this thing has taught me to be stronger and living some kind of life which I cannot abandon.
Is there anything the doctors said you can't do for now?
I had blood cancer, and you know I had a lot of chemotherapy; it's always six but I had eight, that means I have plenty of things in my stomach now, so even if I get married now, I was told to use protection because if you make a baby, it might not be a complete baby. This is because of the medications. I still have to be protected for the next five months. I have to be careful of where I go to avoid contracting anything because the immune system is low for now. The doctors also said I should make sure I eat fresh food, fresh fruit, fresh fish, because the system needs something fresh, so I should avoid eating food that has been left for two days.
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P.M. NEWS (http://pmnewsnigeria.com)
In late 1965, California grape workers went on strike to protest poor pay and labor conditions. Labor leader César Chávez soon took up their cause, and in 1966, he and his followers began a 340-mi (547-km) trek from Delano to the state capitol to raise awareness of the farm workers' plight. The march began with 75 people and ended in a rally of 10,000 people on the capitol steps. Many Americans rallied to their cause and boycotted table grapes. The strike lasted five years and accomplished what? Discuss (http://forum.thefreedictionary.com/postst40218_Delano-Grape-Strike-Begins--1965-.aspx)
Free Dictionary Encyclopedia
| (http://www.fifa.com/mm/photo/tournament/competition/02/16/93/26/2169326_small.jpg) | Nigeria's Shola Ameobi (L) vie with Malawi's James Sangala during the FIFA World Cup qualifying football match Nigeria vs Malawi in Calabar on September 7, 2013. AFP PHOTO/PIUS UTOMI EKPEI | [/t]
Via: FIFA.com News
Job Title: Security Officer
Location: Zaria, Nigeria
Employer: Ahmadu Bello University (ABU)
Qualifications and Requirements:
• Candidates MUST possess LL.B, B.A, or B.Sc. in English, Sociology,Psychology, Public Administration,Political Science with a minimum ofSecond Class (Lower Division).
• Must possess good leadership qualities.
• Must be computer literate.
• Must be physically fit without any disability.
• AGE: Between 30-35 years.
Duties:
He/She will be expected to, among other things, do the following:
• Plan and execute the Vice-Chancellor's security directives.
• Plan and execute security measures to counter any existing or anticipated threats.
• Prevention of volatile situations through good intelligence. Advance effective security measures to counter any existing or anticipated threats.
• Conduct intelligence gathering that will enhance the decision making process of the Management.
• Plan and execute security measures that will enhance the security and safety of the members of the University Community.
Salary: Point of entry will depend on qualifications and cognate experience.
How to Apply:
Candidates should submit applications together with relevant credentials and detailedCurriculum Vitae. They should also advise their referees (2) to send their reports under confidential cover to:
The Registrar,
Ahmadu Bello University,
P.M.B. 1069,
Zaria.
All applications should be forwarded NOT later than 14th October, 2013.
NB: Candidates that have already applied need NOT to respond to this advertisement.
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Attempts by powerful forces within the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) to wrest the party's control from President Goodluck Jonathan are being stiffly resisted, suggesting that it may end up a fight to the finish, writes OLUKOREDE YISHAU
Abubakar Kawu Baraje chairs two entities. One is a corporation in which President Goodluck Jonathan has the power to hire and fire. The other is a faction of the ruling Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) on which platform Jonathan was elected president. The faction sees nothing good in the president and wants him not to seek re-election.
Since his appointment as the chairman of the Board of the Nigerian Railway Corporation (NRC), Baraje, until his emergence as the chair of the new PDP, carried on as someone who believed in the Jonathan administration. At the launch of the third Lagos-Kano-Lagos intercity passenger train service, Baraje urged Nigerians to be patient with the Federal Government so as to deliver a modern train service.
Baraje spoke in the same vein during the launch of the freight services which began less than a month ago. He said the Goodluck Jonathan administration was committed to making train service the backbone of mass transportation.
He spoke of NRC's plans to bring private sector operators into the rail business so as to give the country the rail service it deserves.
But, not a few were shocked when Baraje a fortnight ago emerged the chairman of a faction of the PDP opposed to Jonathan. Already, the Jonathan administration is considering dropping him as NRC chair for being a 'rebel', which means he may not be there to see through the modernisation of the rail system. Other privileges he enjoys, such as police escorts, may have been withdrawn. A report yesterday said security guards in his Abuja and Ilorin homes had been withdrawn.
Two days ago, his compatriot in the new PDP and former Governor of Kwara State, Dr. Bukola Saraki, had his security details withdrawn, allegedly on "orders from above" and without any notice. There were indications that the withdrawal followed alleged security reports indicting Saraki as the arrowhead of the new PDP.
Saraki is also one of the strong pillars behind Governor Rotimi Amaechi, and was instrumental to the governor's re-election in May as the Chairman of the Nigeria Governors Forum (NGF). Saraki was the forum's chairman.
An aide of Saraki, in a report in The Nation yesterday, said: "The seven policemen attached to my boss have been withdrawn. As I am talking, he has no one protecting him other than God. The policemen were withdrawn abruptly and simultaneously in Abuja and Ilorin on Saturday. No reason was given by any police command or the Inspector-General of Police. When necessary, we will issue official statement. But, it is obvious that there is a plot to expose Oga to danger."
Amaechi, who is one of the seven governors behind the new PDP, had his security escorts withdrawn on Thursday. The State Police Command said the redeployment of Amaechi's Escort Commander was in compliance with a directive from the Inspector-General of Police
The Rivers State government said: "The redeployment, according to CP Mbu, was because the Escort Commander had refused his directive to 'Furnish (the CP) with prior information of the movement of the governor'. The Escort Commander is not in charge of the governor's protocol and cannot have prior knowledge of the governor's movement, especially in the prevailing circumstances regarding security in the State.
"After redeploying the Escort Commander, CP Mbu also requested the Camp Commandant of Government House, Port Harcourt, to give him prior briefing of the governor's daily movement – a request which in practice would be difficult to comply with, unless the Camp Commandant gets prior knowledge of the Governor's movement.
"The Government of Rivers State is most uncomfortable with these developments and their implications for the security of Governor Amaechi. This is more so, as the developments are coming on the heels of the Rivers State Police Command's declaration of Governor Amaechi's ADC (who is receiving medical attention) as a deserter.
"This sudden interest of CP Mbu regarding the daily movement of Governor Amaechi cannot be borne out of love. If his intentions were noble and above board, CP Mbu has Governor Amaechi's telephone number and could have reached him directly to make the request of prior briefing of his movements."
Another pro-new PDP governor, whose supporters may have started feeling the pinch of his stance, is Sokoto State Governor Aliyu Wamakko. The sack of Inuwa AbdulKadir as Minister of Youth Development is said not to be unconnected to his support for Wamakko. But, the Federal Government said his sack had to do with his mishandling of the election of the National Youth Council of Nigeria(NYCN).
But many still believe his loyalty to the Speaker of the House of Representatives, Alhaji Aminu Waziri Tambuwal and Wammako, played a part in his removal. The ex-minister was away in Calabar, the Cross River State capital, when he got the boot.
The new PDP members are aware they are taking on a powerful foe. No wonder the 57 members of the House of Representatives, who declared loyalty to Baraje, warned against intimidation.
Their statement reads: "We are also using this opportunity to condemn in strong terms attempts by some agents of the Federal Government to use state apparatus to witch-hunt some of these patriots for taking this bold and courageous step.
"As members of the House of Representatives, we call on the security agencies and other anti-graft bodies to be professional in their activities and not allow themselves to be used by anybody no matter how highly placed for their political ambitions. Remember how you want history to judge your tenure.
"We won't hesitate, however, to use all instruments of law within our powers as provided by the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, 1999 (as amended), to stop this and bring anybody found wanting to book."
The leaders of the new group are: former Vice President Atiku Abubakar and Governors Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso (Kano), Wamakko (Sokoto), Murtala Nyako (Adamawa), Sule Lamido (Jigawa), Dr. Muazu Babangida Aliyu (Niger), AbdulFattah Ahmed (Kwara) and Amaechi (Rivers).
Twenty-two senators have also pledged allegiance to the Baraje group, whose attempt to open a parallel secretariat in Abuja was cut short by the police, which sealed it off before its planned opening today.
The Nation
Job Title: Chief Education, P-5
Employer: United Nations Children's Fund / UN Children's Fund (UNICEF)
Vacancy No: E-VN-2013-001743
Duty Station: Abuja
Country: Nigeria
Region: WCARO
Job Level: P-5
Position#: 00017319
Contract Type: Long-term Staff (FT)
Purpose of the Position: – Under the overall guidance of the Representative/Deputy Representative, responsible for the development, design, planning, implementation and management of the programme for Education within the country programme, and administering programme budget. – As head of section, directs a significant group of professional and support staff to develop and administer the Education programme.
Key Expected Results:
1. Supervises the activities leading to the completion of the Situation Analysis for the sectoral programme, and its periodic update. Formulates sectoral programme goals and objectives and develops strategies. Supervises preparation of the sectoral inputs to the Country Programme Recommendation and related documents, such as the Plan of Operation, and annual Plan of Action, CPSS, PSS, etc.
2. Provides leadership, guidance and direction for programme management and evaluation of the (sectoral) programme through periodic meetings, individually and in groups, with the various sectoral team members. Ensures exchanges of information, experience, identifies new strategies and courses of action to accelerate/improve delivery of services and achieve programme requirements and objectives.
3. As head of a large section, responsible for the overall development and establishment of the workplan, monitoring compliance, and providing technical leadership and guidance to make sure objectives are met. This entails identification of internal human resource requirements, training and performance planning and monitoring.
4. As part of the senior management team, ensures the integration of the sectoral programme with other sectors in all stages of the programming process (i.e., the Situation Analysis, CPR, programme strategy, planning, monitoring and evaluation, and courses of action for achievement of programme objectives).
5. Interacts with the government and other partners, NGO`s, UN and bilateral agencies in the different stages of programme implementation, to follow up on implementation of recommendations and agreements. Liaise with donor partners in country, and assume a leadership role in UN and education sector group as well as in GPE (Global Partnership for Education) as necessary. Provides technical support, orientation and guidance to government officials, technicians and partners on appropriate technical and institutional capacity-building measures, to achieve programme goals and expand coverage of services.
6. In coordination and collaboration with other professional colleagues, establishes and develops effective information and reporting systems to monitor and evaluate the impact of the programme and achievement of targeted goals. Ensures the development of effective communication materials and strategies to support advocacy and social mobilization efforts.
7. Monitors developments at the international, national, zonal and state levels; develops methodologies and new approaches for improving programme effectiveness. Participates in programme workshops and consultations at the regional and country levels to exchange knowledge, ideas, and approaches.
8. Conducts field assessment visits for evaluating programme effectiveness, identifying problems and instituting remedial measures
9. Monitors the overall planning and disbursement of programme funds for the sector, ensuring they are properly administered, and utilized in accordance with the Plan of Action and the programme budget allotment.
10. Work on resource mobilisation and prepare concept notes and proposals for education sector and multi-sectoral work for promotion of quality education.
11. Prepares and submits timely progress/status reports for management, Board, donors, budget reviews, programme monitoring and evaluation, annual reports, etc.
Qualifications of Successful Candidate:
1. Advanced university degree in Education, other Social Sciences or a related technical field with background in Monitoring and Evaluation.*
2. Ten years of relevant work experience at the national and international levels in programme planning and management in a related field, with emphasis on strategic planning, leading policy reform in a developing country environment, sectoral coordination, sector financing and sector leadership. – Sufficient experience in working with donor partners. Strong networks in the sector and strong programme management required. – Peer reviewed publications in the sector and substantial experience working in at least 2 developing countries in both emergency and non-emergency environments preferred.
3. Fluency in English and another UN working language required.
*A first level university degree with a relevant combination of academic qualifications and experience may be accepted in lieu of the advanced university degree.
Competencies of Successful Candidate:
• Has highest-level communication skills, including engaging and informative formal public speaking.
• Creates and encourages a climate of team-working and collaboration in a multi-cultural environment.
• Consistently achieves high-level results, managing and delivering projects on-time and on-budget.
• Has high-level leadership and supervisory skills; provides others with a clear direction; motivates and empowers others; recruits staff of a high caliber; provides staff with development opportunities and coaching.
• Sets, develops and revises organizational strategy and develops clear visions of the organization`s future potential.
• Analyzes and integrates diverse and complex quantitative and qualitative data from a wide range of sources.
• Quickly builds rapport with individuals and groups. Actively nurtures good relationships with people across all organizational levels and boundaries, and with government leaders and stakeholders.
• Identifies urgent and potentially risky decisions and acts on them promptly; initiates and generates organization-wide activities.
• Negotiates effectively by exploring a range of possibilities.
Apply to this job (http://www.jobnavy.com/job/24046/chief-education-job-at-unicef-nigeria/)
Anambra State pilgrims to Israel this year will be airlifted from Akanu Ibiam International Airport Enugu. The Executive Secretary, Nigeria Christian Pilgrims Commission, Mr. John-Kennedy Opara stated this when he paid a courtesy visit to Governor Peter Obi at Governors Lodge, Amawbia. Mr. Opara stated that the airlift for the pilgrimage from Akanu Ibiam International [&hellip
Federal Ministry of Information (FMI) Nigeria
(http://www.abiastate.gov.ng/wp-content/uploads/2013/09/NA-in-Abia--710x300.jpg) Governor TA Orji has expressed gratitude to the Nigerian Army for collaborating with the State Government in eradicating kidnapping and criminal activities in parts of the State.
Governor Orji was speaking at the Nigerian Army Finance Corps Biennial Training Conference 2013 with the theme:Transforming the Nigeria Army towards meeting security challenges and national development, the role of the Nigerian Army Finance Corps holding at the Michael Okpara Auditorium, Umuahia.
He said that the State Government will continue to cooperate with the military to fight security challenges and described security as key to socio economic development.
According to him, no investment in security is a waste and described the theme of the conference as apt.
The governor who thanked the Nigerian Army for choosing Abia for the conference said the choice is a clear statement of the peace and tranquilty in Abia state making it one of the safest states in the country, attributed the achievements he has made to the assistance of the Army in instilling security in Abia.
He stated that the military has defined a new role in sustaining the nascent democracy in Nigeria urging them to exercise caution so as to achieve a greater result in providing security in crisis prone areas of the country.
The governor said he has no doubt that the military will rise up to expectation in protecting the nation's democracy and thanked the chief of Army staff Lt. General Ihejirika and other high ranking officers for their dogged fight in rescuing Abia and the country from criminal elements.
In his speech, the chief of Army staff, Lt. Gen Azubuike Ihejirika represented by the General officer commanding, 82 Division of the Nigerian Army, Enugu, Major AA Olaniyi said the conference will strengthen the military to be efficient in service delivery and in management of its resources , adding that the conference is timely.
While thanking the governor for his logistic support to the military, the chief of Army staff assured that his men are combat ready to wage war against any cases of kidnapping, armed robbery and related cases in parts of the country.
He stated his determination in transforming the Nigeria Army for greater performance and urged the participants to take the training seriously.
Earlier, the Chief of Accounts and budget, Nigerian Army, Maj. Gen.A I Muraina said they have the task of managing the core finance operations of the Nigerian Army effectively in ensuring that resources are utilized in the most cost effective manner.
Major Gen. Muraina explained that the conference will help them improve service delivery in the management of public funds through accountability and prudent management of their resources.
Via: Abia State Government - Official Press Release
Nigeria earned passage into the final round of Caf qualification for World Cup 2014 with a 2-0 victory over Malawi in Calabar on Saturday.
Via: Cross River State Government - Official Press Release
Job Title: Customer Relationship Officer – Ikota
Employer: Standard Chartered Bank Plc (SCB)
Job ID: 396203
Job Function: Wholesale Banking
Location: Nigeria – SCB
City: Lagos
Full/Part Time: Full time
Regular/Temporary: Permanent
Job Description: Manage and deliver excellent customer service at your branch, which will enable the branch/bank to achieve it's service targets and bottom line projections.
Key Roles & Responsibilities:
• To acquire,grow and deepen customer relationship in wealth segment and SME segment through excellent service delivery,with specail focus on the analysis of their personal,financial as well as investment needs and objectives.
• Managing the customer service function toensure the delivery of quality servic to customers,the projection of a professional and warm image,maintainance of operationalcontrols and improvement in operation effieciency.
• Attend to customer sales/enquiries
• Evaluate customersneeds and provide advice as to product required
• Cross sell bank's products to current/potential customers
• Grow and manage customer base in personal and SME portifolio segment
Qualifications & Skills:
• B.Sc from any recognised University
• A good knowledge of the bank's products, services and policies.
• Good service skills/etiquette/personal presentation
• Good knowledge of bank cash related policies.
In compliance with the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) Act of 2004, all applicants should ensure that they have completed the mandatory NYSC programme. A discharge certificate will be required as evidence of completion of the programme. Where an exemption has been granted, a certificate of exemption will also be required.
Apply to this job (http://www.jobnavy.com/job/24175/customer-relationship-officer-ikota-job-at-standard-chartered-bank-plc/)
Ekiti State Governor, Dr Kayode Fayemi has warned parents and guardians against preventing their children and wards from enjoying free education programme put in place by his government; saying anyone who prevents school-age children from going to school in the state will face the wrath of the law.
The Governor sounded the warning while flagging off the registration of primary school-age children for 2013/2014 academic session held at St. Peter's RCM Primary School, Emure Ekiti on Thursday.
Dr. Fayemi stated that the Child Right law in the State and the Universal Basic Education Act prevent parents and guardians from disallowing school-age children from enjoying education because it is not a privilege but a right that all children must benefit from.
He opined that parents do not love their children but also committed to their future and would want them to get quality education which "is the road to fulfilment".
"We must make sure that 100% of our children of school age are in school. We are not there yet but we will be there soon. We look forward to a time when all children will be in school because it is their right. It is not a privilege that we are doing but it is their right. It is the reason we have free education. It is not just free but also compulsory education in primary schools so that our children will be prepared for the challenges of the future.
That is why parents must know that we have child right law in this state in addition to the universal basic education act that prevents parents from disallowing their children of school age from going to school. Such parents will face the maximum wrath of the law if they are found but I know that parents love their children. They are law abiding and are committed to the future of their children", the Governor stated.
Also speaking, the Deputy Governor who also doubles as the Chairperson of the State Universal Basic Education Board, Prof. Modupe Adelabu said government's effort at getting school-age children to school has paid off with an increase in enrolment from 160,171 in 2011/2012 session to 170,768 in 2012/2013 session.
Prof Adelabu disclosed that the 23 new public nursery and primary schools have been approved for take-off from the forthcoming academic session in order to make education accessible and meet the yearnings of the people while also taking care of the influx of pupils.
Adelabu added that it is commendable that Ekiti State has the least out-of-school children in Nigeria with only 2% while some other states recorded about 80%.
She stated that an Early Childhood Educational Centre has been established at the State Secretariat to take care of pre-primary education programme; adding that this would relieve working parents the problem of carrying their children to workplace as well as allow easy transition from pre-primary to primary one in public primary schools in the State.
Prof. Adelabu however enjoined parents, teachers and other stakeholders in the education sector to support the present administration in its quest to fully revamp the standard of education in the State, while parents and guardians should monitor their children to prevent them from falling victims of criminal activities.
At the event, the Governor, his Deputy, the Commissioner for Education, Science and Technology, Mr Kehinde Ojo, the caretaker Chairman of Emure Local Government, Mr Febisola Adewale and the Permanent Secretary, SUBEB, Dr Eunice Dada registered the school age children who were brought by their parents for registration for the new academic session.
Via: Ekiti State Government - Official Press Release
Italy and the Netherlands stole the headlines by becoming the first European nations to qualify for Brazil 2014, while Germany, Switzerland and Russia each took a giant stride towards booking their passage.
Via: FIFA.com News
University of Adelaide offers graduate research scholarships for students from any country, who have recently graduated from the University of Adelaide to undertake postgraduate research at the University of Adelaide in 2014. Benefits are payment of full tuition fees for the normal duration of the program and an annual living allowance ($24,653 in 2013). The allowance will be paid for two years for a Masters degree by Research and three years for a Doctoral research degree (an extension is possible for doctoral programs only). No other allowances will be paid. The application deadline is 31 October 2013.
Study Subject (s): Scholarships are provided to learn any of the courses offered by the University of Adelaide.
Course Level: Scholarships are available to undertake postgraduate research at the University of Adelaide.
Scholarship Provider: University of Adelaide, Australia
Scholarship can be taken at: Australia
Eligibility: In order to be eligible for consideration a student must:
-be completing their four year undergraduate degree including first class honours in a research based honours program at the University of Adelaide in 2013 OR have completed the above in 2012; or
-be completing their masters degree with a sufficient research component to be approved by the Research Education Development Committee as a degree acceptable for entry to the PhD (refer to the Academic Program Rules) at the University of Adelaide in 2013 OR have completed the above in 2012;
-be eligible to enroll as a commencing student in a full-time postgraduate research program at the University of Adelaide by 31 August 2014;
-be an international student; and
-not be currently enrolled in the higher degree by research program at the University of Adelaide for which the student is applying for a scholarship.
-Note: Currently enrolled PhD students are not eligible to apply.
-Note: Applicants who applied in previous international scholarship rounds are not eligible to apply again.
-This will be deemed to cover students who have completed all of their education at Adelaide and where the committee considers it appropriate students who have completed a lesser period of time but including the honours year.
-Students undertaking a coursework masters degree will be required to obtain an overall grade of Distinction with not less than a High Distinction in their research component(s) to be eligible for AGRS scholarships.
Scholarship Open for International Students: International students (who have recently graduated from the University of Adelaide) can apply for these scholarships.
Scholarship Description: AGRS Scholarships may be available for international students from any country, who have recently graduated from the University of Adelaide, to undertake postgraduate research at the University of Adelaide in 2014. Recipients MUST be able to commence their research program by 31 August 2014. Under no circumstances can the scholarship be deferred to 2015. The offer of a scholarship is contingent upon a student not being offered another award by the Commonwealth of Australia, The University of Adelaide, or an overseas sponsor. The University reserves the right to withdraw an offer of a scholarship at any time prior to enrolment if it is advised that an awardee has been offered a scholarship equal to or in excess of the financial value of the award offered by the University.
Number of award (s): Not Known
Duration of award(s): Scholarships are offered for the normal duration of the program.
What does it cover? Benefits are payment of full tuition fees for the normal duration of the program and an annual living allowance ($24,653 in 2013). The allowance will be paid for two years for a Masters degree by Research and three years for a Doctoral research degree (an extension is possible for doctoral programs only). No other allowances will be paid. The scholarship does not provide an Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC) allowance.
Selection Criteria: Not Known
Notification: Applicants will be notified of the outcome of their scholarship application via email by 20 December 2013.
How to Apply: The mode of applying is online.
Scholarship Application Deadline: The application deadline is 31 October 2013.
Further Official Scholarship Information and Application (http://www.adelaide.edu.au/graduatecentre/scholarships/research-international/opportunities/adelaide-graduate-research-scholarships/)