– A youth group has said it is important that the former governor of Cross River state Donald Duke contests for 2019 presidential election
– The group said Nigeria needs a young, intelligent and energetic president to end the suffering and insecurity faced by the people
– The group also said it is ready to mobilize two million signatures to compel the former governor to run for presidency
A youth group has said it is important that the former governor of Cross River state Donald Duke contests for 2019 presidential election.
The group, Professional Youth Vanguard said Nigeria needs a young, intelligent and energetic president to end the suffering and insecurity faced by the people.
The group through its president Ayi Umoh said it is ready to mobilize two million signatures to compel the former governor to run for presidency.
READ ALSO: Jonathan’s administration was government of the greedy, Buhari’s own is of criminals – Dino Melaye
The youth said its members are convinced that Duke is capable of transforming Nigeria into a country worthy of emulation within a short period of time.
Umoh said: “The problem with Nigeria today is leadership because those at the helm of affairs are old and incapable of generating good ideas that can address the problems of this country. That is why we are canvassing for Mr Donald Duke to contest for the post of President in 2019 to turn the situation around and stop the suffering.”
The group said Nigeria needs a young, intelligent and energetic president to end the suffering and insecurity faced by the people
READ ALSO: Biafra: When enough is enough by Kaunda Adamu
Umoh said zoning as a measure of political equality in Nigeria should not be used for the selection of a good leader.
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“Mr Duke met an economy that was in the woods in Cross River and a state nobody would want to identify as his place of origin but within four years, he changed the state to become a tourists destination and he can do same for Nigeria.
So zoning should not be used as a criteria but his ability ana passion in order to change things in the country,” Umoh said.
ZENITHBLOG.com had earlier reported that the former governor declared his intention to run for presidency come 2019.
Duke said he once aspired to achieve the highest position as president of Nigeria under the platform of the Peoples Democratic Party.
Watch this ZENITHBLOG.com video of Nigerians speaking on the possibility of President Buhari handing over to Osinbajo:
Nigeria is a country where you can find hotels that have made it to the list of the best in Africa. Some of them are prominent representatives of the largest international chains of hotels. Are you looking for the best resort to stay? Get acquainted with this list of the most impressive hotels.
Hotel business in Nigeria stands out and is well-developed. There are different types to suit various tastes and budget. Without a lot of effort, you can find luxurious accommodation and superior service, which will leave you with a pleasant impression during your stay. This compilation provides only the best hotels in Nigeria with the most affordable costs.
Top ten best hotels in Nigeria are here for you to know. Select your ideal choice! There are hotels for all occasions. Whether you’re looking for a hotel for one night or a hotel for a business trip, a family celebration or an unforgettable romantic getaway, we’ve got you covered. You will always be able to choose the perfect option which meets all your necessary requirements.
Radisson Blu
This top-of-the-line hotel is located in Victoria Island, Lagos. The location area is very convenient both for leisure and business occasions. It provides quick access to all major establishments and attractions in the city.
This modern hotel in the heart of Lagos has up to 170 rooms and suites in its establishment. All of them are made in Scandinavian style, which is quite popular nowadays. Their cuisine is quite impressive. When it comes to perks, the hotel is equipped with a pool, Spa,, and well-developed fitness gym. It’s worth mentioning that the hotel provides free Wi-Fi.
InterContinental Hotel Lagos
This stylish hotel is also located in Victoria Island at Kofo Abayomi St., Plot 52. The operating personnel provides visitors with deep knowledge of the local cultural and use unique technologies in service. Staying in this hotel will provide a high level of luxury and comfort that you will absolutely enjoy.
The hotel, due to its location, offers a magnificent view of the seaside and Lagos Port. It focuses on a commercial success right now and the desire to bring the hotel business to a new level in the future.
The Wheatbaker
The Hotel is located in the unique place from which it will be convenient for everyone to discover the city of Lagos. Everything you need can be found within the territory of the hotel. Immediately after checking into the hotel you have full access to all services. For example, massage room, spa, hupaithric swimming pool, steam room as well as a poolside bar.
The Wheatbaker Hotel tries to provide the best services and amenities. 24/7 service is available via phone. The sense of comfort and security is their main priority and they offer only the best recreational opportunities. It doesn’t matter your reason is for being in Lagos, this Hotel will always be the ideal choice.
Sheraton Abuja
Without any doubt, this is one of the best resorts in Nigeria. Sheraton service exceeds all expectations. Their dedicated staff serves carefully and unobtrusively and this makes you wish to stay in the hotel for longer
The Sheraton chain of the hotels and resorts in all corners of the globe is a great choice for anyone who is looking for privacy, new adventures and experiences during their journey. That’s why you should not hesitate to choose this one in Nigeria. There are 540 rooms and suites available.
Transcorp Hilton Abuja
Nestled in the heart of the capital’s commercial district it offers best views, excellent service and exquisite Nigerian meals. This is considered to be a hotel with a minimum price for the night considering its luxury conditions. Whatever your reason for visiting Abuja, either on a business trip, on vacation or visiting local attractions, they will definitely find a suitable room for you and your family.
Guests of Hilton receive all they need – high class and excellent service for a great price. Also at your disposal are comfortable fitness gyms, playgrounds for children, places for business meetings, stylish rooms, spa centers and other pleasant things that will make you happy.
READ ALSO: Nigerian governor allegedly pays for 150 rooms at expensive Lagos hotel over award
Grand Towers Hotel
Since they opened the doors, the hotel strives to exceed guests’ expectations. Founding traditions and heartfelt hospitality make the Hotel Grand Towers the best place to stay.
It enables the most discerning travelers to enjoy a unique feeling while being offered authentic and memorable impressions.
Federal Palace Hotel
This 150-room hotel provides an atmosphere bustling with energy of the mysterious city and exotic corner of the world. It is located in Victoria Island, Lagos. This makes it a great choice for those who are seeking the nightlife, amazingly tasty food and different kinds of entertainment. It is worth mentioning that the hotel offers a gaming-house right on its grounds.
Le Meridien Ibom Hotel & Golf Resort
Without any doubt, this hotel will give its guests the most amazing and engaging experiences. It is one of the most luxurious hotels in the country. Unforgettable cultural events are held both on-site and beyond, offering a unique experience for everyone who visits it.
If you are tired of stuffy fitness gyms or spa centers and you have been dreaming of trying something new, unusual, modern, original… Bingo! You have found what you have been looking for! Golf Resort! No matter how old you are 18 or 60 – you are welcome!
Swiss International Mabisel
The hotel is full of top-notch facilities. It boasts of a pretty cool and serene atmosphere. The Hotel will impress anyone looking for a attentive and helping staff. Swiss International Mabisel has an ‘open heart’ and its own personality.
It is located near Port Harcourt International Airport – 40 minutes by car.
Le Meridien Ogeyi Place
This modern, new and bright hotel is a place where energy flows. There are completely different 86 guest rooms and suites. You just have to choose the right one for you. Le Meridien Ogeyi Place has a particularly lively atmosphere which will totally capture your heart.
Hope you have found this information useful. Remember that you deserve only high-quality service and your stay in a hotel should be comfortable and sometimes even unforgettable.
READ ALSO: PHOTOS: Top 5 Classy Lagos Hotels For Business Travelers
– Nnamdi Kanu has met with Igbo leaders in Enugu state
– The meeting comes on the heels of the just concluded sit home exercise
– It is not clear what was discoursed at the meeting seeing that it was held behind close door
Following the success of the sit-at –home exercise called on Tuesday by agitators, leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), Nnamdi Kanu, stormed Enugu on Wednesday, May 31.
Kanu held a closed door meeting with some Southeast leaders under the auspices of the Ala Igbo Development Foundation (ADF).
The mweeting is said to have lasted for over two hours.
The Guardian reports that the meeting was chaired by the president of the ADF, Prof Uzodinma Nwala.
Also present at the meeting were: Archbishop Maxwell Aniekwenwa; a former Ohanaeze president-general, Dr Dozie Ikedife; Secretary general of Igbo Leaders of Thought (ILT), Prof Elo Amucheazi; a former Vice Chancellor of Imo State University, Prof Ukachukwu Awuzie.
Chairman, Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN), Archbishop Ebere Chukwu, Ambassador Lawrence Agubuzo, Mazi Sam Ohuabunwa, Bishop Obi Onubugo, were also present.
READ ALSO: Bill seeking to address Biafra establishment fails to get second reading
Kanu has met with Igbo leaders to map out the next line of action, following the success of the sit-home excercise
Although resolutions of the meeting were not disclosed, ZENITHBLOG.com however gathered that it was used to strengthen relationships among other Igbo groups in the agitation as well as provided opportunity for advice on the Biafra struggle.
Meanwhile, barely 24 hours after the sit-at-home campaign that crippled business activities in the Southeast, a group, on Wednesday May 31, asked the Federal High Court in Abuja to revoke the bail it granted to leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra, IPOB, Nnamdi Kanu.
Vanguard reports that the group which is under the aegis of South East Peoples Assembly (SEPA) in a letter dated May 31 and signed by its President, Prince Chukwuemeka Okorie, urged the Chief Judge of the high court, Justice Ibrahim Auta, to as a matter of urgency, revoke Kanu’s bail.
ZENITHBLOG.com gathered that SEPA maintained that the IPOB leader has continued to conduct himself in a manner that is totally at variance with terms and conditions of his bail, among which included that he must not hold rallies, grant interviews or be in a crowd of more than 10 people.
It said: “Obviously, the recklessness with which he made media statements and even organised the ‘Sit at Home and Stay Indoor’ protest to mark the so called BIAFRA HEROS DAY on Tuesday, 30th May, 2017 is a threat to the unity, security and peace of Nigeria as a sovereign nation.
“We have no iota of doubt that he is trying to push our dear country Nigeria into an unnecessary precarious situation for his personal agenda and those of his paymasters.
“Sir, our decision to write this demand letter to your good office at this time is to forestall another civil unrest in Nigeria, particularly around the Igbo speaking region.
“As you well know, the struggle by Kanu to be relevant under the guise of actualisation of Biafra does not enjoy the support of right thinking Igbo people both at home and in diaspora.
“That he suddenly addresses himself as the Supreme Leader of Biafra points to how arrogant and disrespectful he is to legitimately constituted authority in the Federal Republic of Nigeria.
“The pertinent question on our minds as stakeholders is: Has Kanu been consistent in providing the court with reports on the progress of his health and treatment on a monthly basis since he was granted bail?
“We fear that if Kanu is not tamed by Your Lordship as a matter of urgency, the IPOB may create a situation where it becomes difficult if not impossible for genuine development to take place in the South East under the administration of President Muhammadu Buhari, GCFR.
“History has taught us that the Civil War of 1967-1970 started gradually and later turned out to be something that caused our people unimaginable losses.
“We cannot afford to fold our arms this time and allow a stooge imported from the United Kingdom by stark enemies of Nigeria to maintain a state of belligerence against the nation and keep the name of Igbo people in the news for the wrong reasons.
“At the SEPA, our very mission is that we believe in the truth and can on the strength of this declare that the temporary freedom being enjoyed by Kanu has been abused.
Therefore, we join the other patriotic Nigerians in urging Your Lordship to consider adopting the appropriate procedure to ensure that Kanu’s bail is revoked within the next 7 (Seven) working days.
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“It may interest you to know that the whole world is watching how you have been faring to reposition the Federal High Court on the path of excellence and restore her lost glory,” the letter read.
It will be recalled that trial Justice Binta Nyako had on April 25, granted Kanu bail after he spent about a year and six months in detention.
ZENITHBLOG.com had previously reported that Justice Binta Nyako had on April 25 said her decision to release Kanu on bail was based on health grounds.
She cited an affidavit that was attached to the bail application Kanu filed through his lawyer, Mr. Ifeanyi Ejiofor.
Below is a ZENITHBLOG.com video in which the possibility of achieving Biafra is examined.
– An Igbo Socio-Cultural group Nzuko Umunna on Wednesday, May 31, said it was satisfied with the conduct of the Igbo people in their activities to mark the Biafra at 50 celebration
– The group said IPOB, MASSOB and all the other groups conducted themselves in civilized manner on the Biafra remembrance day
– Nzuko Umunna said the level of compliance during the protest was highly satisfactory and commendable
An Igbo Socio-Cultural group Nzuko Umunna on Wednesday, May 31, said it was satisfied with the conduct of the Igbo people in their activities to mark the Biafra at 50 celebration.
The group also commended the leadership and members of the Indigenous People of Biafra, the Movement for the Actualization of the Sovereign State of Biafra (MASSOB) and other indigenous groups for their peaceful mobilization.
In a statement signed by the group’s coordinator and secretary Ngozi Odumuko and Paschal Mbanefo the IPOB, MASSOB and all the other groups conducted themselves in civilized manner on the Biafra remembrance day.
READ ALSO: “If the north does not want restructuring, we will force it on them or break Nigeria into two”
Mbanefo said the level of compliance with the sit-at-home directive while highly satisfactory and commendable, has shattered a lot of myths and fallacies about Igbo and their unity.
Nzuko Umunna said it was satisfied with the conduct of the Igbo people in their activities to mark the Biafra at 50 celebration.
He said that never again would Ndigbo forget the heroes who made the supreme sacrifice for them.
“As an Igbo socio-cultural group, we were highly delighted at the level of compliance with the sit-at-home directive despite not being enforced in any way except through moral suasion. IPOB, MASSOB, BIM and such other groups must be commended for this rare feat,” Nzuko Umunna said.
“We are also very delighted with the commemoration of the day by Ndigbo and their friends worldwide including Europe, America, Asia, Australia and other African countries where the day was marked in carnival-like atmosphere.
READ ALSO: Buhari’s government is a government of the criminals, by the criminals and for the criminals – Dino Melaye
We must not fail to sincerely appreciate the Ohanaeze Ndigbo and all the South East governors for their cooperation and show of statesmanship while the Day lasted.
All these have shattered the myths and fallacies spread about the Igbo, their businesses, unity and solidarity.
The support, understanding and effusive show of solidarity by all Nigerians to the cause was humbling. This has gone a long way to show that freedom is a universal cause and that tribute to fallen heroes is a natural human endeavour.
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Based on the foregoing, we commit to working even closer with all stakeholders in ensuring a more massive and more memorable Remembrance Day subsequently,” the group added.
ZENITHBLOG.com had reported that major state in the South-East region of Nigeria were like graveyards on May 30, – the IPOB sit-at-home protest.
The IPOB in its order urged all its members within Nigeria and outside the country to participate in the protest, as a sign of honour and remembrance of some victims of the 1967 Nigeria-Biafra civil war.
Watch this ZENITHBLOG.com video of Professor Osinbajo and former President Olusegun Obasanjo speaking at the #Biafra50 event:
The trend of African presidents traveling out of their countries for treatment abroad has been condemned since it speaks volumes about the state of healthcare facilities and the medical systems in their home countries.
Some presidents have become known for doing this on regular basis. Below is a list of some of them:
1. President Muhammadu Buhari
President Buhari with his wife, Aisha
President Buhari spent seven weeks in the UK between January and March receiving medical care for an undisclosed ailment, and returned there in May for further treatment.
Vice President Yemi Osinbajo, 60, has been running the country in his absence as Acting President.
Angola President, Dos Santos, who is 74, has held power since 1979, making him Africa’s second-longest serving leader after Equatorial Guinea’s Teodoro Obiang Nguema Mbasogo.
He’s spent most of this month in Spain on a private visit that Foreign Minister Georges Chikoti confirmed was taken for medical reasons, before returning to Angola on Monday.
READ ALSO: Buhari’s aide should advise him to go back to his farm – Fayose’s aide
3. President Robert Mugabe
Robert Mugabe with his wife, Grace Mugabe
Zimbabwean President, Robert Mugabe is 93 years old and has held power since 1980. He is the world’s oldest serving ruler.
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Mugabe and his aides have said he’s as “fit as a fiddle,” but he’s visibly frail and has traveled frequently to Singapore to undergo medical treatment.
Watch this ZENITHBLOG.com video on President Muhammadu Buhari’s presidency and achievements:
– Senate has described the killings by herdsmen as another form of Boko Haram.
– The upper chamber highlighted the need to deal decisively with herdsmen attacks across the country
– Senator Francis Alimikhena says Fulani herdsmen issue another Boko Haram if not nipped in the bud
The Nigerian Senate has warned that killings by herdsmen across the country, if unchecked, will transform into another security threat like Boko Haram, The Punch reports.
ZENITHBLOG.com gathered that the lawmakers, on Wednesday, May 30, while debating a motion titled ‘Motion on the need to curtail the activities of the Fulani Herdsmen,’ asked if federal Government to step up action on the protection of lives and properties against the attacks by herdsmen.
READ ALSO: Buhari’s government is for criminals – Dino Melaye
The motion was which was moved by Senator Clifford Ordia (Edo Central) lamented that despite the previous resolutions reached by the National Assembly there seems to be no visible action on the part of government to curtail the criminal activities.
Nigerian Senate says the activities of herdsmen are worrisome to every Nigerian
Senator Francis Alimikhena (Edo North) speaking on the motion, said criminal activities by herdsmen were spreading across the country.
He said: “This Fulani herdsmen issue is a problem; it is another Boko Haram that is rearing its head if not nipped in the bud right now. It is very criminal for some people to start killing people, taking their possessions and they go away with it.”
Alimikhena noted that there were roads in Edo state being avoided by people for fear of being attacked by herdsmen. He stressed that farms had also been abandoned by farmers due to attacks.
“These security operatives can be deployed to attack these Fulani herdsmen who are destroying our people. If this one is not well taken care of, it is another monster that will grow and destroy this country. The activities of these herdsmen in Edo State and other parts of the country are worrisome to every Nigerian,” he said.
According to an earlier report by ZENITHBLOG.com, the Nigerian Senate urged the security agencies to apprehend people who disguise as herdsmen and destroy properties in the country.
The Senate also condemned criminal activities among cattle herdsmen in the country.
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Contributing to the issue, Senator Francis Alimikhena representing Edo north said there was need to stop the violence of the Fulani Herdsmen in the country.
Watch this ZENITHBLOG.com TV video of the devastation left behind by Fulani herdsmen in attacks on Southern Kaduna.
– The Nigerian health minister, Isaac Adewole has announced 9 new regulations in the Nigeria Tobacco Control Act
– This regulations are to be implemented by the federal government led by Yemi Osinbajo, the acting president
– The announcement was as the world marks 2017 World No Tobacco Day
On Wednesday, May 31, 2017, the world marked the World No Tobacco Day. As part of the commemoration of the day, Isaac Adewole, Nigeria’s Health Minister announced 9 regulations in the Nigeria Tobacco Control Act that would be implemented by the federal government.
The Act which was signed into law in 2015 by former President Goodluck Jonathan aims at reducing Tobacco use in the country.
World Health Organization(WHO) has revealed that tobacco kills over seven million people annually, and is an increasing risk factor in non-communicable (NCDs), including cardiovascular disease, cancers and chronic obstructed pulmonary disease.
Isaac Adewole
According to Premium Times, Mr Adewole, a Professor of Obstetrics and Gynaecology said the implementation of the tobacco control Act had been slow because the draft regulations need the National Assembly approval.
Below are the regulations listed by the minister to be implemented:
1. Prohibition of the sale of tobacco products to and by anyone below age 18.
2. Ban of sale of cigarettes in single sticks; cigarettes must be sold in packs of 20 sticks only.
3. Smokeless tobacco shall be sold in a minimum of a pack of 30 grammes.
READ ALSO: Osinbajo invites Saraki, Dogara to Aso Rock for signing of 2017 budget
4. Ban of sale or offer for sale or distribution of tobacco or tobacco products through mail, internet, or other online devices.
5. Prohibition of interference of tobacco industry in public health and related issues.
6. Prohibition of smoking in anywhere on the premises of a child care facility, educational facility, and healthcare facility.
Other places where smoking is prohibited include: playgrounds, amusement parks, plazas, public parks, stadia, public transport, restaurants’ bar, and other public gathering spaces.
7. Prosecution of owner or manager of any of the places listed above who permits, encourages or fails to stop smoking in the above listed places.
READ ALSO: Nnamdi Kanu thanks supporters for complying with sit-at-home order
8. Prohibition of tobacco advertising, promotion and sponsorship of any kind.
9. Compliance with specified standards for content.
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ZENITHBLOG.com earlier reported that with President Buhari away, Acting President Yemi Osinbajo, SAN, has signed into law two bills from the National Assembly.
These laws will ultimately facilitate access to more affordable credit for Nigerians. The bills which have now become ‘Acts’ are the Secured Transactions in Movable Assets Act, 2017 (otherwise known as Collateral Registry Act) and the Credit Reporting Act, 2017.
Watch this ZENITHBLOG.com video on President Buhari’s achievements as President according to Nigerians:
– A Bill seeking to address the Biafra issue has failed to get a second reading at the House of Representatives
– The bill failed to get its second reading because sponsors of the bill failed to be present during the debate on Wednesday, May 31
– The bill was sponsored by Chukwuka Onyema (PDP, Anambra), Uzoma Nkem-Abonta (PDP, Abia) and Henry Nwawuba (PDP, Imo)
The House of Representatives on Wednesday, May 31, failed to hold a second reading of a Bill seeking to address Biafra agitation with the establishment of Development Commission for the Southeast geo-polical zone.
This was due to the failure of the sponsors of the Bill to present it for second reading.
The general principles of the bill, sponsored by Chukwuka Onyema (PDP, Anambra), Uzoma Nkem-Abonta (PDP, Abia) and Henry Nwawuba (PDP, Imo) was listed for debate Wednesday but had to be stepped down, The Nation reports.
When it was time for the bill to be debated and the Speaker, Yakubu Dogara noticed that the lead sponsor Onyema, who is also the Minority Leader was not on the floor, he asked the Chairman, Rules and Business Committee, Emmanuel Oker-Jev to step it down.
At this point, voices were heard around the floor indicating that one of the sponsors, Nkem-Abonta was on ground.
The Speaker then asked Nkem-Abonta to take it.
On his feet, the lawmaker stated that he could not present the bill because it was agreed between them that the Minority Leader will present it and take the lead debate.
READ ALSO: Buhari’s government is a government of the criminals, by the criminals and for the criminals – Dino Melaye
Chris Ngige, the minister of labour and employment has called on Igbos to be strategically positioned for 2019
The bill was eventually stepped down with the leave of the House.
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According to the snippets of the lead debate, the bill that seeks to establish the South East Development Commission would be charged with the responsibility among other things to receive and manage fund from allocation of the Federation Account for the reconstruction and rehabilitation of roads, houses and other infrastructural damages suffered by the region as a result of the effect of the civil war as well as tackle the ecological problems and any other related environmental or developmental challenges in the Southeast states.
The objectives of the Bill with the establishment of the South East Development Commission is help to tackle the infrastructure deficit in the Southeast.
In a similar vein, Senator Chris Ngige who is the minister of labour and employment has called on Igbos to be strategically positioned for 2019 saying he did not endorse Igbo marginalisation.
Vanguard reported that the minister stated this in response to backlash he faced for saying Igbo people should not complain about marginalisation as they failed to give Buhari votes.
READ ALSO: Biafra agitation: Yorubas are not cowards as Igbos think
Ngige in a statement through Mr. Nwachukwu Obidiwe who is his special adviser on media saying he was misquoted as he did not in away say Igbos deserved to be marginalised.
He said: “We put all our eggs in one basket despite clear signs we shouldn’t. We should therefore not allow such ill-advised investment to repeat in subsequent elections.
My position which I passed as a caution in that interview is that Ndigbo should start to strategically position themselves for 2019 and avoid a repeat of what happened in 2015.
Other zones are already strategizing and we must not be caught napping. Just as all reasonable politicians in the South East accept that we played bad politics in 2015, we should effectively put it behind us.
The resilient nature of the Igbo allows no room for self-pity. We have met greater challenges and surmounted them.”
Below is a ZENITHBLOG.com video in which the possibility of achieving Biafra is examined.
– Nigeria’s private jet owners now spend about N30 billion on maintenance annually
– Nigeria has about 100 private jet owners
– They were up to 200 before the economic recession started last year
A report by Leadership indicates that Nigeria’s private jet owners now spend about N30 billion on maintenance annually.
According to the report, the number of owners of the luxury jets dropped from 200 to between 50 and 100, with most of them either selling out their private jets or returning them to their original owners abroad.
Before the present government came into power, it was estimated that Nigeria had about 200 private jets owned by individuals.
The number is said to have been halved to about 100 private jets, following cancellation of orders by potential owners before the new government came into office.
Nigeria has one of the highest owned private jets owners in the world
READ ALSO: Ugandan billionaire Ivan Ssemwanga buried with bundles of cash (photos, video)
Confirming the cost of aircraft maintenance, the President of National Association of Aircraft Pilots and Engineers (NAAPE), Engineer Isaac Balami, concurred that it is very expensive, as the issue of safety and engineering are paramount.
Balami said that even though modern aircraft has been able to take care of some of the maintenance by just software applications, the cost of maintaining an aircraft still remains a function of the type of the aircraft and the level of specifications certified by the aircraft maker.
Stating that the cost of maintaining an aircraft does not only end at “C” checks level, he added that there was also need for pre-flight, post flight and weekly inspections too, depending on whether the aircraft is Boeing, Airbus, Bombadier or Gulfstream.
“On average, I will say maintenance cost of private jet costs about $500,000 to $1 million US dollars (N30 billion naira) for a year, depending on the size of the aircraft. The reason is because it is the function of the age of the aircraft.
“The older the aircraft the costlier the cost of maintenance. You must also pay engineers monthly and other costs. All these are part of it,” he said.
Balami who rated Nigeria as the third highest private jet owning country pointed out that private jet ownership has reduced in recent times, while there still exist a couple of them.
His words: “Apart from America and China, Nigeria is the third in private jet ownership all over the world. From the last administration, we had over 200 private jets and so many other orders were made.
“It was growing up, although some people later cancelled their orders because of the recession, especially when everything is done in Dollars. France, UK and other advanced countries do not come near to Nigeria when it comes to private jet ownership”.
Nigeria’s extremely rich and famous fly their expensive jets all over the world
As at March 2014, it was reported that Nigerians spent over $6.5 billion dollars on private jets, making it one of the fastest-growing luxury jet industries in the world.
Some prominent Nigerians who are private jet owners include, Alhaji Aliko Dangote, Asiwaju Bola Tinubu, Chief Orji Uzor Kalu, Senator Ali Modu Sherrif, Mr Femi Otedola, Pastor Ayo Orisetjafor, Otunba Mike Adenuga, Bishop David Oyedepo, Pastor Enoch Adeboye, Folorunsho Alakija, Prophet TB Joshua amongst others.
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Recently, about 30 private jets conveyed prominent Nigerians to Minna, the Niger state capital, for the wedding ceremony of General Ibrahim Babangida’s daughter.
Watch the ZENITHBLOG.com TV report on the firepower of the Nigerian Air Force below:
– The anti-corruption war of the President Muhammadu Buhari-led administration is on track
– This is the submission Socio-Economic Rights and Accountability Project (SERAP)
– The group made its stance known on Wednesday, May 31 in Lagos
Mr Adetokunbo Mumuni, Executive Director, SERAP, says the anti-corruption war of the President Muhammadu Buhari-led administration is on track.
Mumuni spoke in Lagos on Wednesday, May 31 at the launch of SERAP’s latest report titled, “Combating Grand Corruption: An Agenda for Institutional Reforms in Anti-corruption Strategies”.
He faulted claims in some quarters that the anti-graft campaign was selective, saying anyone who flouted the nation’s laws was supposed to face the music.
President Buhari’s anti-corruption war is well documented
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His words: “This is my professional opinion as a lawyer and social rights campaigner. I believe that the war against corruption by this administration is on track.
“Until Buhari came along, nobody knew how much of our money was being stolen, especially in the guise of buying weapons to combat insurgency.
“So, it does not really matter if you belong to the All Progressives Congress or the Peoples Democratic Party; if you cannot account for over 2 billion dollars, then you deserve to face prosecution.”
He explained that corruption eroded confidence in, and respect for democratic institutions, and was as an obstacle to social, economic and human development.
Mumuni said the anti-corruption agencies in Nigeria, however, face challenges of inadequate legal framework and resources.
As part of SERAP’s recommendations, he urged government at all levels to provide stronger and more concerted approach to tackling grand corruption in Nigeria.
Mumuni urged the Attorney General of the Federation and those of the states to seek stiffer penalties for convicted corrupt officials and to minimise the use of plea bargaining to serve as deterrent.
Also speaking, Dr Olajumoke Akiode, Director, Centre for Ethics and Sustainable Development, called for attitudinal change in the fight against corruption.
“Until the citizens come together and say `enough is enough` , we cannot win this fight against corruption,” she said. (NAN)
It is now a common sight for huge sums of foreign currencies to be recovered from serving and former public office holders
READ ALSO: President Buhari may return next week
Meanwhile, a member of the House of Representatives, Honourable Kolawole Babatunde has said it is possible to win elections in Nigeria without spending millions of naira.
Babatunde who represents Akoko South East/South West in Ondo state, made the comment at a colloquim on youths and the future of democracy in Nigeria.
The colloquim was hosted by the Young Parliamentarians Forum (YPF) in partnership with the Youth Initiative for Advocacy, Growth and Advancement (YIAGA) on Friday, May 26.
Watch the ZENITHBLOG.com TV video report of the anti-corruption walk of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission that held in Abuja recently.
