KICNEWS

Category: News

  • Hold invaders of NLC headquarters accountable, TUC urges FG

    Hold invaders of NLC headquarters accountable, TUC urges FG

    Hold invaders of NLC headquarters accountable, TUC urges FG

     

    The Trade Union Congress of Nigeria (TUC) has urged the Federal Government to hold accountable those responsible for authorising and executing the invasion of the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) headquarters in Abuja.

     

    Mr Festus Osifo, TUC President, said this in a statement in Abuja.

    Osifo described the invasion as a grave violation of fundamental rights, particularly the freedoms of speech and expression.

     

     

    He called for an immediate and thorough investigation into the incident.

     

    According to him, the invasion represents an overreach by security forces and poses a direct threat to the rights of Nigerian citizens.

     

    “We must ensure that our rights are protected and that security agencies operate within the legal boundaries set by our Constitution,” he said.

     

    Osifo called for the prompt return of all confiscated materials and an official explanation for what he termed an unjustified action.

     

    NAN reports that the NLC confirmed that its national office in Abuja was invaded by security operatives.

    According to a statement by NLC spokesperson Benson Upah, late on Wednesday, the operatives arrested the security guards, forcing them to hand over keys to the offices on the second floor.

     

    The operatives then broke into the floor, ransacked the bookshop, and stole hundreds of books and publications. (NAN).

     

     

     

     

     

  • 10 things to know about late CAF president, Issa Hayatou

    10 things to know about late CAF president, Issa Hayatou

    10 things to know about late CAF president, Issa Hayatou

    Issa Hayatou

     

    Former President of the Confederation of African Football (CAF), Issa Hayatou, died on Thursday after a long illness, one day before his 78th birthday.

     

    The Cameroonian served as president of the Confederation of African Football for 29 years, from 1988 until his surprise ouster in 2017.

    Tributes have since poured in across the football world, with Fifa president Gianni Infantino describing the late Hayatou as a ‘passionate sports fan’ in a post on Instagram on Thursday evening.

     

    CAF, in a condolence message signed by its president, Patrice Motsepe, hailed Hayatou’s contributions to the growth of African football and requested that the CAF flag and the flags of all CAF Member Associations fly at half-mast for a period of five days, until August 13, 2024.

     

    President of Nigeria Football Federation, Alhaji Ibrahim Musa Gusau, commiserated with the Cameroonian and African football fraternities.

     

    “The NFF and the entire Nigeria football family are terribly saddened by the death of Alhaji Issa Hayatou. He was a great and much-loved leader of African football and did his best to leave African football greater than he met it,” Gusau said.

     

    “Alhaji Hayatou was a man of strong character and integrity. We love him but God loves him more. We pray that Almighty Allah will grant him eternal rest and also grant the Cameroonian, and African football family the fortitude to bear the loss.”

     

    Here are 10 things to know about the late football administrator.

     

    Issa Hayatou was born on August 9, 1946, in Garoua, then part of French Cameroon.

     

    He served as a physical education and sports teacher and teacher coordinator at Lycée Leclerc in Yaoundé from 1973 to 1974. Later, he held the position of National Sports Director from 1982 to 1988.

     

    From 1964 to 1971, he was a national champion in the 400m and 800m, a member of the national basketball team, and a player for the university football team. He also represented the national athletics team at the inaugural African Games in Brazzaville in 1965.

     

    Hayatou held different positions as a sports administrator. He served as Secretary General (1974–1983), Vice President (1984–1986), and President (1986–1988) of the Cameroon Football Federation. He was a member of the CAF Executive Committee and later its President (1988). He joined FIFA’s Executive Committee in 1990, became Vice President in 1992, and chaired various FIFA committees, including the World Cup and Confederations Cup organizing committees. He was also President of the Olympic Football Tournaments Committee (1992–2006) and served on FIFA’s World Cup Organizing Committee and Strategic Studies Commission.

     

    He served as CAF President for 29 years, from 1998 to 2017, and was succeeded by Ahmad Ahmad of Madagascar.

     

    Under his leadership, South Africa achieved a historic milestone by becoming the first African nation to host the FIFA World Cup in 2010, marking a significant moment in the history of African football.

     

    He also served as FIFA’s interim president from October 2015 to February 2016, during Sepp Blatter’s suspension over a bribery scandal.

     

    Hayatou challenged Blatter for the FIFA presidency in 2002 but lost heavily as many African countries deserted him in the vote against the Swiss.

     

    Beyond his contributions to football, Hayatou served as a member of the International Olympic Committee (IOC) from 2001 to 2020, playing a significant role in global sports governance.

     

    Hayatou was awarded an honorary degree in literature by Ladoke Akintola University of Technology in Ogbomosho, Oyo State, Nigeria, on November 3, 2007.

     

     

  • Team Nigeria qualifies for Men’s 4x400m Final at Paris Olympics

    Team Nigeria qualifies for Men’s 4x400m Final at Paris Olympics

    Team Nigeria qualifies for Men’s 4x400m Final at Paris Olympics

    The Team Nigeria Men’s 4×400 quartet of Emmanuel Ojeli, Ezekiel Nathaniel, Dubem Amene, and Chidi Okezie have run a season’s best 2:59.81 seconds to finish 2nd in their semifinal heat.

     

    They will now compete in Saturday’s Men’s 4x400m Olympic Final.

  • US rapper Travis Scott arrested in Paris after fight with security guard

    US rapper Travis Scott arrested in Paris after fight with security guard

    US rapper Travis Scott arrested in Paris after fight with security guard

    US rapper Travis Scott was arrested early Friday over a fight at a five-star hotel in the French capital, prosecutors said.

     

    “Policemen were called to the Georges V hotel and arrested Travis Scott for violence against a security agent. The latter had intervened to separate the rapper from his bodyguard,” the Paris prosecutor’s office said in a statement.

     

    It was not immediately clear if the 33-year-old singer was being detained.

     

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    Scott was seen attending the Olympics men’s basketball semi-finals on Thursday evening.

     

    The music star, whose real name is Jacques Bermon Webster, was arrested in Miami Beach in June for trespassing and disorderly intoxication, records showed.

     

    Scott’s “Utopia” was a nominee for best rap album at this year’s Grammy Awards.

     

    Other endeavours include merchandising deals with Nike, video game maker Epic Games and McDonald’s fast food.

     

    Scott has two children with social media giant and business mogul Kylie Jenner.

  • Gas development will lower cost of living

    Gas development will lower cost of living

    Gas development will lower cost of living — Minister

    The Minister of State for Petroleum Resources (Gas), Ekperikpe Ekpo, has said that the surest path to national prosperity is the utilisation of Nigeria’s gas resources by the Federal Government.

    Ekpo made this statement on Wednesday during his visit to the board and facilities of the Nigerian Content Development and Monitoring Board in Yenagoa.

    Ekpo, co-chair of the governing council, noted that Nigeria is endowed with vast natural gas resources, with approximately 209 trillion cubic feet of proven gas reserves.

    He stressed the need to harness these resources effectively to drive economic development.

    He highlighted President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s support for the gas sector, with initiatives extending to the entire value chain, including gas development, distribution, and penetration. According to Ekpo, these initiatives are aimed at lowering the cost of living and transportation, and positively impacting every part of the country.

    Ekpo outlined key initiatives his ministry is pursuing, including “investments in critical gas infrastructure to support the transportation and distribution of natural gas across the country, promotion of domestic gas utilisation for power generation, industrial applications, and transportation, as well as strengthening the capacity of NCDMB to build capacity and enforce local content policies.”

    “Other notable initiatives include encouraging and supporting gas-to-power projects to ensure a reliable and sustainable supply of electricity, expanding Nigeria’s capacity to export liquefied natural gas to international markets to generate revenue and position Nigeria as a key player in the global gas market, and strengthening policy and regulatory frameworks governing the sector to create an enabling environment for investment and innovation,” he stated.

    Ekpo also mentioned that since 60% of NCDMB’s investments are gas-based, he advised that new projects by the agency should focus on Compressed Natural Gas due to its direct impact on transportation and the cost of living.

    He commended NCDMB for its remarkable progress in promoting local content and for constructing the impressive 17-storey headquarters building, which signifies the growth and depth of local capacity.

  • Hardship: Top 10 pocket-friendly Nigerian meals

    Hardship: Top 10 pocket-friendly Nigerian meals

    Hardship: Top 10 pocket-friendly Nigerian meals

    Hardship: Top 10 pocket-friendly Nigerian meals

    In Nigeria, where the cost of living can vary widely, finding nutritious and affordable meals is essential.

    Whether you’re cooking at home or opting to purchase ready-made dishes, it’s entirely possible to enjoy a satisfying meal without breaking the bank.

    With N750 to N1500, you can purchase a variety of hearty Nigerian meals, from staples like Jollof rice to quick fixes like Indomie noodles with vegetables and a little more to prepare by yourself.

    These meals not only provide the necessary nourishment but are also accessible, ensuring that eating well on a budget is within reach for many.

    “Pocket friendly” is an informal term used to describe something affordable or reasonably priced.

    It implies that the cost of the item or service won’t put a strain on your budget, making it easy to purchase without financial difficulty.

    PUNCH Online in a Thursday chat with a Kwara State-based food entrepreneur, Mrs Lateefat Alli-Oluwafuyi, said that health is wealth and good food translates into good health.

    She stressed that one should rather try to feed well and stay healthy than get sick these days with the increase in drug prices and get effective treatment.

    “The phrase “health is wealth” underscores the idea that good health is one of the most valuable assets a person can have. The absence of good health can significantly compromise all other aspects of life. A healthy body and mind are the foundation for a fulfilling and productive life.

    “When we say good food translates into good health, we’re emphasising the critical role that nutrition plays in maintaining and enhancing our well-being. The food we consume directly affects our body’s functioning, energy levels, and overall health.”

    With a cross-sectional survey done across the six zones, here are ten economic-friendly meal ideas in Nigeria that are both nutritious and easy on the pocket:

    1. Jollof Rice

    Jollof Rice

    Ingredients: Rice, tomatoes, onions, pepper, oil, seasoning cubes.

    Why: A staple in many Nigerian homes, Jollof rice is affordable and can be prepared with or without protein, making it adaptable to various budgets.

    1. Beans and Plantain

    Ingredients: Beans, ripe or unripe plantains, palm oil, onions, seasoning.

    Why: Beans are an excellent source of protein and are quite affordable. Paired with plantains, it makes a filling meal.

    1. Eba and Egusi Soup

    Eba and Egusi

    Eba and Egusi | GettyImages

    Ingredients: Garri (for Eba), melon seeds, palm oil, vegetables, milk curds (wara), stockfish, or meat (optional).

    Why: Egusi soup is rich and can be made with or without meat, depending on your budget. Eba (made from Garri) is inexpensive and filling.

    1. Yam Porridge (Asaro)

    Ingredients: Yam, palm oil, pepper, onions, spinach or other leafy greens, seasoning.

    Why: Yam porridge is a hearty and economical dish, especially when yams are in season.

    1. Okra Soup and Fufu

    Ingredients: Okra, palm oil, crayfish, pepper, seasoning, milk curds (wara), cassava flour (for Fufu).

    Why: Okra is affordable and nutritious. Paired with Fufu, it creates a satisfying meal.

    1. Beans and Corn Porridge (Adalu)

    Ingredients: Beans, corn, palm oil, onions, seasoning.

    Why: Combining beans and corn creates a protein-rich meal that’s both filling and affordable.

    1. Indomie Noodles with Vegetables

    Ingredients: Instant noodles, carrots, cabbage, onions, bell peppers, eggs (optional).

    Why: Noodles are quick and cheap. Adding vegetables increases the nutritional value without significantly increasing cost.

    1. Acha (Fonio) Porridge

    Ingredients: Acha grains, vegetables, palm oil, onions, seasoning.

    Why: Acha is a lesser-known grain but is highly nutritious and can be cooked into a light porridge with minimal ingredients.

    1. Moi Moi

    Ingredients: Beans, pepper, onions, oil, seasoning.

    Why: Moi Moi is a versatile and protein-rich dish that can be eaten alone or as a side.

    1. Fried Yam and Akara

    Ingredients: Yam, beans (for Akara), oil, pepper, and onions.

    Why: A popular street food combination that is inexpensive and can serve as a breakfast or light dinner.

    These meals are not only cost-effective but also easy to prepare, ensuring that you can eat well on a budget.

    Good food plays a crucial role in maintaining and enhancing our well-being. The nutrients we consume through a balanced diet—such as vitamins, minerals, proteins, and healthy fats—support our body’s functioning, energy levels, and overall health.

    Proper nutrition not only provides the energy needed for daily activities but also helps prevent chronic diseases like heart disease, diabetes, and certain cancers.

    Additionally, a healthy diet positively impacts mental health, improves mood, and reduces stress.

    By making nutritious food choices, we invest in our health, ensuring a longer, healthier life and the ability to handle life’s challenges with resilience.

  • NNPC reassures public as fuel station explodes in Lagos

    NNPC reassures public as fuel station explodes in Lagos

    NNPC reassures public as fuel station explodes in Lagos.

    A Mobil fuel station located near the Airport Hotel on Obaferni Awolowo Way, Ikeja, Lagos exploded in the Ikeja area of Lagos State on Thursday, causing panic among residents.

    While details of the incident are still sketchy as of the time of filing this report, many have speculated that it must have occurred from a gas filling point.

    However, the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited said the inferno has nothing to do with the compressed natural gas station recently unveiled by the NNPC Gas Marketing Limited and NIPCO.

    The NNPC Ltd wishes to state that the reported explosion at a filling station in Ikeja, Lagos, has nothing to do with the recently commissioned NNPC Gas Marketing Ltd (NGML)/NIPCO Compressed Natural Gas Stations, which are currently functioning and running safely without any incident,” a statement by the NNPC spokesman, Olufemi Soneye said.

    He added that the CNG station was not affected by the explosion.

    “The NNPC Ltd also wishes to add that the NGML was not affected by the explosion; it is not involved in the activities of the affected station and all NGML facilities in Lagos, including pipelines, metering stations, above-ground installation and CNG facilities are in safe operating condition,” he noted.

  • Crossdresser found dead on Abuja road, police begin probe

    Crossdresser found dead on Abuja road, police begin probe

    Crossdresser found dead on Abuja road, police begin probe.

    The Federal Capital Territory Commissioner of Police, Bennett Igweh, on Thursday ordered an investigation into the death of a yet-to-be-identified man dressed in women’s clothing.

    The police, in a statement by the command spokesperson, Josephine Adeh, said it received a distress call about a woman’s corpse found along the Katampe-Mabushi expressway and promptly dispatched detectives to the scene.

    Adah added that preliminary investigations carried out by the detectives revealed that the individual was a man fully dressed in female clothing with no means of identification on him.

    She said the individual was immediately rushed to the hospital where he was confirmed dead.

    Adah said, “In response to a distress call received by the Command Control Room on 08/08/2024 at about 07:40 AM, that an unidentified lady was seen lying motionless along Katampe – Mabushi expressway, a team of detectives were immediately dispatched to the scene.

    “Preliminary investigations revealed that the individual was a man fully dressed in female clothing with no means of identification on him. He was immediately taken to Maitama District Hospital where Doctors on duty confirmed him dead. “

    Adeh said Igweh ordered a discreet investigation to unravel the circumstances surrounding his death.

    She said, “The Commissioner of Police, FCT, CP has promptly ordered a thorough and discreet investigation to unravel the circumstances surrounding his death. Updates on this matter will be communicated in due course.

  • Two persons burnt, vehicles destroyed as gas explosion rocks Lagos filling station

    Two persons burnt, vehicles destroyed as gas explosion rocks Lagos filling station

    Two persons burnt, vehicles destroyed as gas explosion rocks Lagos filling station.

    Fire engulfed the Mobil Filling Station opposite Airport Hotel at Allen Junction in Lagos following an explosion involving a gas truck.

    Two people sustained burns, and property worth millions of naira was damaged.

    Eyewitnesses reported that the explosion occurred around 11 a.m., destroying at least seven vehicles. No fatalities were reported.

    Initial investigations revealed that the explosion involved a 12-ton gas truck, registration number unknown, which impacted several cars and part of a nearby building. The cause of the explosion is under investigation.

    The affected vehicles included both commercial and private cars. Additionally, the second floor of a nearby two-story building was damaged.

    The affected vehicles included both commercial and private cars. Additionally, the second floor of a nearby two-story building was damaged.

    Dr. Femi Oke-Osanyitolu, Permanent Secretary of the Lagos State Emergency Management Agency (LASEMA), confirmed that while there were no deaths, two men suffered burns, and others had minor injuries. The injured were treated by LASEMA’s Pre-Hospital Care Team and LASAMBUS before being transferred to LASUTH.

    By 2 p.m., the Lagos State Fire and Rescue Service had controlled the fire, preventing further damage to surrounding buildings. Rescue operations were still ongoing.

    The incident has caused a traffic gridlock in the area, with emergency teams cordoning off the vicinity, including the busy Obafemi Awolowo Road. Motorists were redirected to alternative routes to alleviate congestion and prevent a total traffic halt.

    Director of Lagos Fire Service, Margaret Adeseye, explained that the explosion occurred while a gas truck was discharging its contents into a surface storage tank, which then ignited. The fire rapidly spread, consuming eight vehicles, including the tanker, and damaging parts of the top floor of a nearby two-story building.

    Several individuals sustained injuries and were taken to Lagos State University Teaching Hospital (LASUTH) for treatment. The exact number of injured persons was still being confirmed at press time.

    “Fire service teams from Alausa and Ikeja Fire Stations acted quickly to control the blaze. As of the latest update, efforts to dampen the affected area are ongoing,” Adeseye said.

    In addition to the Lagos State Fire and Rescue Service, several agencies were on-site to manage the situation. These included the Lagos State Emergency Management Agency (LASEMA), National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA), Lagos State Neighborhood Safety Corps (LNSC), Mobil Fire Unit from Apapa, Lagos State Building Control Agency (LABCA), and the Nigeria Police Force (NPF).

  • Olympic: German Team borrows Nigerian cyclist bicycle for track event

    Olympic: German Team borrows Nigerian cyclist bicycle for track event

    Olympic: German Team borrows Nigerian cyclist bicycle for track event

    In a heartwarming display of sportsmanship at the 2024 Paris Olympics, the German cycling team has extended a helping hand to Nigerian cyclist Ese Lovina Ukpeseraye.

    Ukpeseraye, who was unexpectedly called up to compete in the keirin and sprint events, faced a major hurdle when she arrived without a bicycle.

    In a post on X, she revealed that Team Nigeria had not provided her with a bicycle in time for the events.

    “Due to the short notice of me competing at the keirin and sprint, #teamNigeria I had no bicycle to race with on the tracks,” she wrote.

    The German team stepped in to assist her, offering one of their bicycles so she could participate.

    Ukpeseraye thanked them for their kindness, stating, “In the spirit of sportsmanship, the German team @bunddeutscherradfahr came to my rescue by offering me a bicycle. Thank you ”

    Ukpeseraye made history as the first Nigerian cyclist to represent the country at the Olympic Games.