LUXELOOSE Redefining Mobile Toilet Business In Nigeria!

Impressive and commendable mobile toilet in Lagos, Nigeria.

LUXELOOS Mobil toilet, pictured (below) at an event, with splendid, clean interiors.

More Photos below: 

Shedding Light On Tithing!

The argument on whether to tithe or not, and who to pay tithes to have been on for decades. Uninformed critics call it “a decoy by some denominations to extort helpless parishioners". They turn Biblical teaching and Truth downside-up, as a result many are misinformed.

Abraham, in the twentieth verse of Genesis chapter fourteen, paid tithe to Melchizedek. "Then Abram gave him a tenth of everything". (Genesis 14:20).

Abraham, after defeating the King of Elam, offered a tithe to Melchizedek, in what was believed to be 'a voluntary act of worship'. 

Prior to the ‘tithe’ occurrence, there was no record that 'tithing' was the culture of the ancient people of Canaan and Mesopotamia. Abram’s tithing was a kind of homage from 'a lesser' to 'a greater', acknowledging that 'the greater' had given him (the lesser) victory. “Just think how great he was: Even the patriarch Abraham gave him a tenth of the plunder.” (Hebrews 7:4)

                                    

Who is Melchizedek, and why did Abram give him a tenth of the spoils?

The name Melchizadek means “King of Righteousness” in the Hebrew language. "For this Melchizedek, king of Salem, priest of the most high God, who met Abraham returning from the slaughter of the kings, and blessed him; to whom also Abraham gave a tenth part of all; first being by interpretation King of righteousness, and after that also King of Salem, which is, King of peace". (Hebrew 7:2).

Melchizedek was first introduced as the “King of Salem and Priest of El Elyon meaning (God Most High). Melchizedek King of Salem, in other words, King of Jerusalem. Salem is a Hebrew word for ‘Peace’. This transcends to ‘Melchizadek King of Peace’. Melchizedek appeared the on the road, as Abram returned victoriously from battle and ministered to Him (Abram).

Melchizedek was again brought up in the book of Psalm, David prophesied about Christ saying: “The Eternal hath sworn, and will not repent; Thou art a priest forever after the order of Melchizedek.” (Psalm 110:4). This scripture echoed in Hebrews 5: “And he says in another place, “You are a priest forever, in the order of Melchizadek.” (Hebrews 5: 6).

^“Wherefore in all things it behoved him to be made like unto his brethren, that he might be a merciful and faithful high priest in things pertaining to God, to make reconciliation for the sins of the people." (Hebrews 2:17).

King of Peace: "For unto us a child is born, unto us a son is given: and the government shall be upon his shoulder: and his name shall be called Wonderful, Counsellor, The mighty God, The everlasting Father, The Prince of Peace". (Isaiah 9:6). 

"Without father, without mother, without descent, having neither beginning of days, nor end of life, but made like unto the Son of God: abideth a priest continually". (Hebrews 7:3). 

These passages describe Jesus Christ as a High Priest, “after the order (equal rank) of Melchizedek”, and brings clarity to the identity of Melchizadek. 

The writer of the book of Hebrew, acknowledged the significance of Abraham’s and the ‘Levitical tithe when he wrote: “One might even say that Levi, who collects the tenth, paid the tenth through Abraham, because when Melchizedek met Abraham, Levi was still in the body of his ancestor. (Hebrews 7:9-10). Under the Old Testament Law, God mandated the Levites to receive the tithes of the Israelites. “I give to the Levites all the tithes in Israel as their inheritance in return for the work they do while serving at the tent of meeting.” (Numbers 18:21). Abraham’s and the Levitical tithes are the same exact institution, performed in different settings. Nonetheless, the passage buttressed the supremacy of the Melchizedek priesthood over that of Levi, and indicate that the present day ‘Levites’ are Priests, Clergies who serve in the House (service) of the Lord.

Abraham’s tithe to Melchizedek, may have been 'a voluntary act of worship', even during the Levitical era, as there was no indication of 'tithe officials' that monitored and ensured the Israelite paid tithes. Howbeit, there is a law of tithing. Abram made a choice to obey God consequently; his offspring are forever blessed for it. “And I will make thy seed to multiply as the stars of heaven, and will give unto thy seed all these countries; and in thy seed shall all the nations of the earth be blessed; Because that Abraham obeyed my voice, and kept my charge, my commandments, my statutes, and my laws.” (Genesis 26:4 - 5). We can therefore base our tithing on Abraham’s tithe and Jacob’s vow.

Through Abraham and the Levitical dispensation, tithes were paid on the spoils of war, herds and fruits of the field because those were the major sources of wealth. In modern times, those have been replaced by ‘Jobs and business exploits’. It is God, who gives dexterities to create wealth.“But remember the Lord your God, for it is he who gives you the ability to produce wealth, and so confirms his covenant, which he swore to your ancestors, as it is today.” Deuteronomy 8:18).

Christians are children of Abraham, "Understand, then, that those who have faith are children of Abraham". (Galatians 3:7). Therefore should do the works of Abraham. "Abraham is our father," they answered. "If you were Abraham's children," said Jesus, "then you would do what Abraham did". (John 8:39). Not paying our tithes (when we have been leveraged to do so) is equivalent to denying God as the source of our wealth, increase, income …"for, The earth is the Lord's, and everything in it.”  (1 Corinthians 10:26, Exodus 9:29). And taking what belongs to God without acknowledging Him. "Will a mere mortal rob God? Yet you rob me. "But you ask, 'How are we robbing you?' "In tithes and offerings. (Malachi chapter 3: 8.)

Malachi 3:10 states: "Bring the whole tithe into the storehouse, that there may be food in my house”. God, through His Word commands us to tithe, so that there may be food (wealth) in His House (the Church). Christians must be willing to tithe so that the Church can have in abundance to provide for some of the pressing needs in our communities. 

Such needs as:

• Aid to the financially disadvantaged in the Churches, and Communities irrespective of Religious affiliation.
• Some sort of remuneration for full time Ministers to enable them take care of their families and responsibilities.
• Facilitate Missions (Platforms/avenues to share the good-news of God's Love, and man's redemption through Jesus Christ) in every town, city hinter lands, places not easily accessible.
• Provide Good (mission) Schools especially in slums and hinter lands. 
• Well equipped (mission) Hospitals and Clinics especially in slums and hinterlands. 
• Good drinking water especially in slums and hinterlands.
• Scholarship Schemes for exceptional pupils and students from financially disadvantaged homes etc, all according to the needs of these communities.
• And of-course for the maintenance of the Church and its work-force.

Parallel to sharing the good-news of the redemption of man since the fall of  the first man, Adam through (the sinless life of) Jesus Christ while on earth, which made him a worthy once-for-all sacrifice (blameless/blemish-free Lamb)...as detailed below:

• The switch (Jesus took our sinful nature, and gave us his sinless nature),
• The Judgement upon Jesus on the cross, 
• His death (wage of sin and judgement), 
• Resurrection (Power over sin, judgement and death)
• Abundant Life (Living the Promise) 
• Eternal Life.

This is 'good-news' because all that is required to become beneficiaries of man's redemption, is simply...believe that Jesus is the Christ, The Son of God, He died in our place, so that we might be free from sin, discharged and acquitted of sins's consequences, and receive Him as Lord in our lives. 

It is likewise the duty of the Church to care and provide for the less privileged in the society. In this way people get to experience God's Love through the Church. This might be the only and greatest gospel some might ever hear. 

All these (spreading the good-news, showing love and care to all people, in every nation) can only be achieved when there is readily available fund to do such….which of-course comes majorly from tithes and other free-willed giving. “Test me in this," says the LORD Almighty, "and see if I will not throw open the floodgates of heaven and pour out so much blessing that there will not be room enough to store it". 

Preaching the gospel of the "Kingdom of God" is embedded in the above mentioned obligation of the Church in the society. Not surprising, it reiterates the duties of a responsible government, executed from allocation and tax proceeds. It is then arbitrary to demand taxes from Churches and other Bodies that engage in Humanitarian acts because they are supposed to complement the efforts of responsible governments. 

Moreover it is the people in our communities, the society, that makes up the Church, practically the same well-meaning citizens who pay taxes in their various fields of endeavour, gets 'indirectly taxed' a second time, when the Church is mandated to pay tax.

Notwithstanding, it is vital to note that 'wolves' abound 'in sheep clothing' in the Church. These are the ones who know deep in their hearts that they have no business in the esteemed office of Priesthood/ Clergy. In-order to swindle unsuspecting folks, they get into the Church, commit various types of mention-able and unmentionable atrocities, including misappropriation of funds (tithes, givings, donations) placed in their care....while the less privileged, necessary projects and missions for which the funds is meant for suffers. To these ones....God's Judgement is inevitable. 

In summary, tithes are not given to parents. We should not be reminded to honour and take care of our parents or other responsibilities, it should be a habit. Taking care of one's parents is not only about giving or sending money across, giving time and attention is pivotal.

Neither is tithes given to the orphanage, prisons or as benevolence to any charity organisation. As stated earlier, it is the duty of Christians, governments, and individuals to show love, and to cultivate a lifestyle of giving, according to our capacity....from our resources. One can decide to give just about any percentage of their income towards any thoughtful act. But that is not tithing. 

Tithing is 10% of your income, giving to your local-church (not compulsory though). In recognition of God's supremacy, and God, being our source. We can not see God, nor give anything to Him directly, because He owns everything visible and invincible; all Power and Authority belongs to Him. Paying tithes to the Church never-the-less facilitates God's Kingdom on earth. "Thy Kingdom come, Thy Will be done in earth, as it is in Heaven". (Mathew 6:10). Bringing about God's Kingdom on earth, spreading the goodnews to all people...everywhere" has always been the heartbeat of God.

It is the key duty of the Church to ensure that the gospel is propagated to all corners of the earth and that the vessels and offices used in this great work are catered for. Every Christian might not be engaged in full-time evangelism, as a missionary, pastor e.t.c, as we have all been called into divers spheres of life. But we all are involved when we support with our prayers, givings and tithes. 

Needless to state that 'tithing critics' are "deliberately" or "innocently" like Saul of Tarsus, fighting the spread of the "goodnews of God's Kingdom". In other-words...anti-Christs. It is better to engage in other benevolent acts silently or otherwise...(if you don't think you should tithe), than outright try to stop those who choose to do so. 

What more is there to say...Will a man rob God?. 


Obianuju Mbanusi's thought.

Photo Speak: Images Of Drainages Around Ajah, Lagos!

Photo Speak: 

Images of the current situation at Aiyetoro Street and environ, off Berger road, close to Ilaje bus-stop, Lekki Peninsula axis of Lagos state. 

Ado Road, Badore, off Lekki-Epe express way is not left out, image below show blocked drainage system.

Ado Road, Badore area, Off Ajah bus-stop

With this situation, flooding is inevitable whenever it rains. Lets clear the drainage and keep our environment clean.

Lagos ACP Not Reverted Says IGP As Davido's Lawyer Release Footage Of 'Shisha Room' Incident!

Nigeria's Inspector General of Police, Ibrahim Idris, has asked that the 'letter' supposedly written by the Police Service Commission (PSC); which stated that Acting Lagos state Police Commissioner Mr. Imohimi Edgal, has been "reverted to his former rank of Deputy Commissioner of Police", be ignored. 

Speaking recently with Vanguard Newspaper, the Inspector General of Police, who is also PSC Chairman, stated that no such decision was taken during the last held plenary meeting, more so, that the PSC's Permanent Secretary has no such power to write such letters to the Police, the 'revert- letter' was therefore not authorised.

Acting C.P Imohimi Edgal is currently investigating the Tagbo, Olugbemiga Abiodun popularly known as DJ Olu,  and Chime Amechi's death case.

DJ Olu and Chime, both close associates of David Adeleke, popularly known as Davido, were found dead in a BMW believed to be owned by one of the deceased, parked in an underground garage of Block B, in the high-brow Banana Island estate, Ikoyi, Lagos, on Saturday, October 7, 2017. It was reported that drugs was found in the vehicle, but there is so far no official autopsy reports on actual cause(s) of death. 

The remain of Olugbemiga Abiodun aka DJ Olu, was laid to rest at the Vault Garden, Ikoyi - Lagos on Thursday, october 12, 2017. Chime Amechi will be interned in his home town, Ifitedunu, Dunukofia local government, Anambra state, on Saturday, October 14, 2017.

The past couple of days has seen speculations, allegations, accusations, counter accusations and defence trailing the deaths of these young men. 

According to news, Tagbo Umeike, a young man in his 30s, and an associate of Davido had gone clubbing with some friends and associates, Davido was reportedly partying with the group on Monday night, October 2nd, 2017. Tagbo's birthday was on Tuesday, October 3rd.

Autopsy and Police report released on Wednesday, October 11, 2017, revealed that sometime during the night, while the group partied, Tagbo died as a result of asphyxia (suffocation), as against the thought that the 40 shots of Tequila drink he gulped during a bet at Shisha Room bar in Lekki, Lagos, might have taken its toll on him. 

CCTV footage from the Lagos Island General Hospital where Tagbo was reportedly found dead, shows a Toyota Hilux escort vehicle, driven by Davido's escort driver identified as Tunde Usutu. 

Tunde Usutu, in the company of two other young men identified as Agbeje Olaoye and Idris Busari, associates of Davido, drove the deceased to the hospital. The men reportedly abandoned Tagbo at the hospital and drove off. The vehicle was later recovered from Davido's residence at #7, Awoshika street, Lekki Scheme 1, Lagos. Usutu reportedly told the Police that he drove the deceased to the hospital and left him there on Davido's instruction.

This development refutes Davido's earlier claim that he does not know how the deceased got to the hospital. 

Davido's Lawyer, Norrison Quakers (SAN) released a statement and CCTV footage which provides to some extent, what transpired as the group was about leaving Shisha Room, on October 2nd night.

The Statement below: 

The CCTV camera below: 

Video footage credit: F78Tv

The footage shows Davido (spotting a white face cap and a black bag strapped around) and some of the guys, outside the Bar, about driving off, and trying to get an already drunk Tagbo (from his stagger) into a white vehicle, which appears like Davido's vehicle. It however appeared Tagbo did not want to get into the vehicle. 

In the second footage, Tagbo still appeared not willing to get into the vehicle, he (Tagbo) was later led out of the gate by one of the guys with them....probably to another vehicle parked outside. 

Davido alighted from the vehicle as Tagbo was being led out, spoke to someone...then got back into the vehicle.

The above appeared a typical scene of guys hanging out...drunk...stagger...messing around...etc.

However, my observation brought about questions: 

From the footage, at a point, one of the guys shoved Tagbo, as if to force him into the vehicle, but Tagbo resisted, and staggered to meet some other guys.

• Was there an argument?
• If there was, what was it about?
• Who was the young man that led Tagbo out and where did he take him to?
• What happened after leaving Shisha Room?

This is no 'rocket science', the footage already provided clues to any meaningful investigation. 

Instead of waiting to 'copy and post' reports released from the Lagos state Police Commissioner's office, Journalists should put on their 'investigative skills', go to the scene and ask questions. By so doing there will come to a more logical conclusion and a better closure for the family, friends and everyone. 

What We Need To Know About Monkey-Pox!

According to World Health Organisation (WHO), Monkey pox, is a rare virus transmitted to human beings from animals. Symptoms of the virus are similar to those seen in cases of small-pox patients, but less severe. 

• Monkey pox emanates from a virus which is in the same group as the chicken pox and small pox virus.
• Monkey pox was discovered in Monkeys..from where it got its name
• Animals like Antelopes, Squirrel, Rats equally carry the virus

Picture of a Monkey pox victim

SYMPTOMS:

Monkey pox starts with a fever and excallates in the following order:

• Head aches
• Back aches
• Swollen nodes
• Chills
• Exhaustion
• In some cases, there could be coughs and sour throats
• Rashes sets in within day 1-day 3 of Monkey pox
• These rashes starts from the face and spreads to other parts of the body
• Spots from Monkey pox rashes are much larger than those of Chicken pox and Small pox
• Monkey pox is "self-limiting", it progresses between 2-weeks..then the infected person recovers fully.
• Monkey pox virus infection confers life immunity

HOW MONKEY POX IS CONTACTED:

• Blood, body fluid or lesion materials (objects recently handled by infected person).
• Monkey pox can be transmitted through the air (air-borne) through coughs and sneezes.
• Contact with infected animal(s)
• Blood or Secretions of infected animal
• Eating inadequately cooked meat of infected animal(s)
• Through bites or scratches of infected animals

PREVENTION

• Hand-Hygiene (wash hands frequently)
• Be vigilant, reports any suspected case of Monkey-pox to the local health authority.
• Infected persons should be quarantined while receiving treatment to avoid further spread of the disease.

There are no exact vaccines or treatments for Monkey pox, although vaccines against small-pox infection has been proved to be 85% effective in Monkey pox prevention but the vaccine is reportedly no longer available to the general public. It was withdrawn following the eradication of small-pox in the early 80s. 

Good news is that Monkey pox out-breaks such as this can however be curtailed. 

Photo Speaks: What A Street Name!

What a street name: "KANAYO FUKING OBIAZOR STRT".

The street name pictured above recently seen around Mmiri-Okuta area, off Anwai road, Asaba, caught the attention of one of our correspondents. 

Peharps, the "FUKING" has a meaning.

Photo Speaks: "Salt Plain" In Ghana!

Picture of areas better described at "Salt Plain" in the Upper- Volta- Region of Ghana, west Africa.

The 'white' substance is believed to be salt in its raw nature.

Japanese Designer Brand, Miniso Opens In Lekki!

Miniso Japanese Designer Brand, opens at Novare Shopping Mall, Sangotedo, Lekki-Peninsula Axis of Lagos state, Nigeria.

A visit to Mimiso shop reveals a wide range of exquisite products...name it: bags, seasonal gifts, electronics, toiletries, accessories, sports, toys and games, utensils, and lots more...all at reasonable and interestingly, affordable prices. 

Miniso Japanese Designer Brand is a multinational retail chain with more than 2, 250 outlets in over 41 countries.

Analysis of President Buhari's October 1st Speech!

Nigeria on Sunday, October 1st, 2017 celebrated its 57th independence anniversary. The journey into becoming a nation has its share of challenges bordering around Leadership, Resource control/ allocation, Equity in distribution, Development and Ethnocentrism.  

Nevertheless the country somehow held on to hope of a better and brighter future,  and all that binds her together as against growing challenges. 

On October 1st, 2017, President Muhammadu Buhari, as expected, delivered to the nation his goodwill message, citing his administration's goals and achievements. 

This message was briefly analysed in comparison to what is obtained in reality, with the hope that it is read, and corrective measures taken as Nigeria journeys into becoming one united and progressive nation. 

President Buhari's speech and analysis below: 

"My dear Nigerians,

October 1st remains a special date for all Nigerians as this marks the day when we attained one of the most precious of human desires — freedom.

Over the years the country has gone through trials and tribulations, but October 1st is always a day for celebrations.

It is a day for thanks giving, reflection and re-dedication.

It is also a day for remembrance. We should remind ourselves of the recent journey from 1999 – 2015, when our country happily returned to democratic rule.

However, in spite of oil prices being an average of $100 per barrel and about 2.1m barrels a day, that great piece of luck was squandered and the country’s social and physical infrastructure neglected." 

...The above highlighted challenge is 100% owed to the infamous culture of lack-of-continuity that beclouds the structure of Nigeria's government since independent...every government comes up with its peculiar agenda borne out of what they thought is best for the country at the time, not minding the need for a long term developmental structure set in place, and which must be respected and inculcated into every administration's agenda  irrespective of political party affiliation. Hence the country keeps going back-and -forth in progressive developmental stories.

"We were left with no savings and huge infrastructure deficit.

The APC Government’s Campaign rallying cry to restore security, re-balance the economy and fight corruption was not all rhetoric."

...Nigerians need to see more of the above highligted displayed in objective campaign and execution of anti-corruption and security concerns fight....regardless of Partisanism.

"The country must first be secured. The economy must be re-balanced so that we do not depend on oil alone. We must fight corruption which is Nigeria’s Number One Enemy. Our Administration is tackling these tasks in earnest.

In the past two years, Nigeria has recorded appreciable gains in political freedom. A political Party at the Centre losing elections of State Governor, National Assembly seat and even State Assemblies to the opposition parties is new to Nigeria. Added to these are complete freedom to associate, to hold and disseminate opinions. Such developments clearly attest to the country’s growing political development. But like all freedoms, this is open to abuse.

Recent calls on re-structuring, quite proper in a legitimate debate, has let in highly irresponsible groups to call for dismemberment of the country. We can not and we will not allow such advocacy".

As a young Army Officer, I took part from the beginning to the end in our tragic civil war costing about 2m lives, resulting in fearful destruction and untold suffering. Those who are agitating for a re-run were not born by 1967 and have no idea of the horrendous consequences of the civil conflict which we went through".

"I am very disappointed that responsible leaders of these communities do not warn their hot-headed youths what the country went through. Those who were there should tell those who were not there, the consequences of such folly.

At all events, proper dialogue and any desired constitutional changes should take place in a rational manner, at the National and State Assemblies. These are the proper and legal fora for National debate, not some lop-sided, un-democratic body with pre-determined set of objectives."

...Absolutely in agreement, there is need to agitate for a cause without violence. The world has since evolved past the 'violence smeared turbulent' years....There are better, more refined ways to solicit.

...However, the name calling "hot-headed youth" is totally not necessary. Mr. President, the truth is that ...almost every Nigerian youth is justifiably angry as a result of turns of events over the years. 

"Government is keeping up the momentum of dialogue with stakeholders in the Niger Delta to keep the peace. We intend to address genuine grievances of the communities.

Government is grateful to the responsible leadership of those communities and will pursue lasting peace in the Niger Delta."

SECURITY

"On security, Nigerians must be grateful to our gallant Armed Forces for rolling back the frontiers of Boko Haram’s terrorism, defeating them and reducing them to cowardly attacks on soft and vulnerable targets."

...Nigerians are "grateful" Mr President, except your media personals inform you otherwise...

...Moreover, "totally defeating Boko-Haram" was one of the promises made by the present administration. 

"Nigeria is grateful to its neighbours and the international community for the collective efforts to defeat this world-wide menace of terrorism.

Not even the most organized and most equipped police and security forces in the world can escape the menace of modern day terrorism, as we have seen in recent years in Europe and other parts of the world.

But we are not letting up. Our Armed Forces in an effort to enhance the operational capability of troops of OPERATION LAFIYA DOLE have established Mobile Strike Teams in the North East. These will ensure the final push to wipe out the remnants of Boko Haram.

In addition, through targeted air strikes most of the leadership and identified logistics bases and routes of the insurgents have been neutralized. The Armed Forces have established a Naval presence in the Lake Chad Basin as part of the coordinated military efforts to curtail the movements or re-emergence of the sect in the area.

Government is working round the clock to ensure release of the remaining Chibok girls, as well as other persons in Boko Haram captivity. Government will continue to support the Armed Forces and other security agencies to fight not only terrorism, but kidnapping, armed robberies, herdsmen/farmers violence and to ensure peace, stability and security in our country.

ECONOMY

With respect to the economy, the Government has remained pro-active in its diversification policy. The Federal Government’s agricultural Anchor Borrowers Programme, which I launched in November 2015, has been an outstanding success with:

· N43.92 billion released through the CBN and 13 participating institutions,

· 200,000 small holder farmers from 29 states of the federation benefitting,

· 233,000 hectares of farmland cultivating eight commodities, namely Rice, Wheat, Maize, Cotton, soya-beans, Poultry, Cassava and Groundnuts, in addition to fish farming.

These initiatives have been undertaken in close collaboration with the states. I wish to commend the efforts of the Governors of Kebbi, Lagos, Ebonyi and Jigawa States for their support to the rice and fertilizer revolutions.

Equally commendable are contributions of the Governors of Ondo, Edo, Delta, Imo, Cross River, Benue, Ogun, Kaduna and Plateau States for their support for the Presidential initiative for palm oil, rubber, cashew, cassava, potatoes and other crops.

With the abundance of rainfall last year and this year, agriculture has enjoyed Divine intervention.

Since December last year, this Administration has produced over 7 million 50Kg bags of fertilizer. Eleven blending plants with a capacity of 2.1 million metric tons have been reactivated. We have saved $150 million in foreign exchange and N60 billion in subsidy. Fertilizer prices have dropped from N13,000 per 50Kg bag to N5,500.

Furthermore, a new presidential initiative is starting with each state of the Federation creating a minimum of 10,000 jobs for unemployed youths, again with the aid of CBN’s development finance initiatives."

...kudos to the above highlighted initiative..
...But, there is need to ensure that not only limited organisations and individuals affiliated to them gets to benefit from this measure. 

...The masses are tired of situations where the government releases funds for sme development across the country, but in actuality, the funds ends up with organisations and individuals with 'government-connection' leaving ordinary Nigerians with no connection, struggling to keep theirs small businesses or start-ups afloat. 

...Programs on how to sensitise the public on how to fully benefit from these government initiatives on sme developments should be geared-up, in-order to carry everyone along. 

"Power remains a huge problem. As of September 12th, production of power reached an all — time high of 7,001 Megawatts. Government is increasing its investment, clearing up the operational and financial log jam bedeviling the industry. We hope to reach 10,000 Megawatts by 2020."

Key priorities include better energy mix through solar and Hydro technologies. I am glad to say that after many years of limbo, Mambilla Power Project has taken off.

...Mr. President, I for one, did not get to watch your Independent broadcast live...reason???...No Light in my neighbourhood between Saturday September 30th and October 1st Sunday 2017. 

There is slight improvement not with-standing...but general observation indicates that a lot needs to be done, and all hands-needs-be-on-deck. 

"Elsewhere in the economy the special window created for manufacturers, investors and exporters, foreign exchange requirements has proved very effective. Since April, about $7 billion has come through this window alone. The main effect of these policies is improved confidence in the economy and better investment sentiments.

The country has recorded 7 consecutive months of lower inflation, Naira rate is beginning to stabilize, appreciating from N525 per $1 in February this year to N360 today. Broad-based economic growth is leading us out of recession".

...Let's bear in mind the nation is coming from a "180 exchange rate" situation less than four years ago.....and that or even less should be the nation's index.

...Be that as it may, the above highlighted indicates progress

...Kudos to your efforts Mr. President.

"Furthermore, in order to stabilize the polity, the Federal Government gave additional support to states in the form of:

· State Excess Crude Account loans,

· Budget Support Facility,

· Stabilization Fund Release

to states and local governments as follows:

· N200 billion in 2015

· N441 billion in 2016

· N1 trillion in 2017

Altogether totaling N1.642 trillion.

"This was done to enable states to pay outstanding salaries, pensions and small business suppliers who had been all but crippled over the years".

...Kudos to the above highlighted step, most retirees who received their gratuities about two years after retirements, are yet to receive their pensions, and some of the benefits that comes with retirement. 

..Some of these individuals who laboured 35-years in service for this country have passed on, most are currently living in abject poverty.

"In addition, the Government’s current N500 billion Special Intervention Programme is targeting groups through;

· Home Grown School Feeding Programme,

· N-Power Job creation to provide loans to small-scale traders and artisans,

· Conditional Cash Transfer,

· Family Homes Fund and

· Social Housing Scheme."

"CORRUPTION

Fellow Nigerians,

We are fully aware that fighting corruption was never going to be a straightforward task. We expected corrupt elements to use any weapon to fight back, mainly judicial obstruction and political diversion. But we are determined to eradicate corruption from our body politic.

In this fight, the Government has:

· Empowered teams of prosecutors,

· Assembled detailed databases,

· Accelerated the recovery of stolen funds."

...There is no such thing as "judicial obstruction" in a democratic system of government, only "judicial processes"...

...And this does not in any way interfere with the Criminal Justice System of a responsible government.

...It only takes its due cause.

 ...No citizen irrespective of their crimes or allegations brought against them should be denied that. 

...There is however need to worry... when the SYSTEM is corrupt.

"The Administration’s new institutional reforms include:

· Enforcing Treasury Single Account,

· Whistle-Blowers Policy,

· Integrated Payroll Personnel and Information System".

We have signed multi-lateral cooperation agreements on criminal matters with friendly countries. There are signs of increasing cooperation from the Judiciary. Recently the Chief Justice of Nigeria directed Heads of all our Courts of first instance and Appeal to accelerate hearings of corruption cases and dismiss any judicial officers found to have been compromised.

"Justice Salami has just been appointed to chair the Judiciary’s anti-graft committee. Government expects a lot from this Committee."

...Good one...We equally expect transparency in this situation.

"I commend the National Assembly for refocusing on its oversight committees. They should, in addition, ensure swift passage of enabling corruption laws. But fighting corruption is a bottom to top operation. I call on all Nigerians to combat corruption at every turn. By not asking for and refusing to accept a bribe, by reporting unethical practices or by blowing a whistle, together we can beat corruption. The government for its part will work for accountability at all levels – Federal, State and Local Governments. CHANGE will then be real.

As we enter the second half of our term of office, we intend to accelerate progress and intensify our resolve to fix the country’s challenges and problems."

...Nigerians look forward to 100% government/ citizens corporation in the fight to fix the country's challenges.  

Thank you and a happy holiday to all of you.”