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CIRCLE MALL LOOTING: SANWO-OLU PROMISES TAX BREAK, FINANCIAL SUPPORT FOR BUSINESS OWNERS

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4 years ago

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Following recent looting and burning of several shops and stores at Circle Mall in Lekki by hoodlums following the hijack of the EndSARS protests, Lagos State Governor, Mr. Babajide Sanwo-Olu has promised to assist the tenants and shop owners at the mall for them to bounce back to business. 

Speaking on Sunday during a condolence visit and meeting with tenants and shop owners at the Mall in Lekki, Governor Sanwo-Olu said Lagos State Government will give tax break and some financial assistance to all the business owners affected by the ugly incident.

It would be recalled that some hoodlums went on rampage on Wednesday October 21, after the EndSARS protests were hijacked, and looted property worth billions of naira at Circle Mall and also set parts of the building ablaze. 

Speaking on his administration’s readiness to assist those affected by destruction in Circle Mall, Lekki, Governor Sanwo-Olu said Lagos State Government will not leave the people to bear the pains alone, noting that government will assist them to returm to their respective businesses. 

 

 

The Governor said Lagos State Government will give all business owners in the burnt Circle Mall tax break of PAYE and also appealed to Federal Government to ensure that they get tax relief from from the Federal Internal Revenue Services (FIRS).

 

 

 

 

 

Governor Sanwo-Olu said the State Government will give victims of the Circle Mall financial support, which will be in form of grant or loans to cushion the effect of the looting and destruction of their respective shops and stores.

Sanwo-Olu said the grant support is a non refundable financial support to the victims. He said the affected businesses are not expected to pay back while the lending support would be in form of a loan, adding that he is already discussing with some financial institutions to assist people with zero interest loans.

 

 

 

 

 

Sanwo-Olu also asked the shop owners to reach out to the Lagos State Employment Trust Fund (LSETF) and urged them to make use of the opportunities being provided by the agency in assisting people who are in business, especially small scale businesses.

 

 

 

 

The Governor further implored people on reorientation of value system and civil responsibility for everybody to be agent of positive change in their community and anywhere they found themselves.

 

 

 

 

Reiterating his administration’s commitment to security of lives and property in the state, Sanwo-Olu said that Lagos State will no longer tolerate hoodlums looting and destroying government and private businesses and properties.

 

 

 

 

He said though Lagos State Government cannot stop people from coming into the state, the Governor warned people with criminal intentions to go elsewhere before being smoked out by the government.

The governor said his government is ready to encourage people who are in Lagos for business and would go extra mile to protect businesses in the state.

Speaking earlier, the tenants at Circle Mall, thanked Governor Sanwo-Olu for showing empathy in the face of daunting challenges. They asked him to assist them financially so as to get back on their feet.

They also appealed to Lagos State Government to strengthen security around the Circle Mall to prevent future occurrences of the two attacks they suffered in the last 13 months.

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Sahara weekly online is published by First Sahara weekly international. contact [email protected]

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Director General NSC, Bar. Bukola Olopade Extends Christmas Greetings to Christians in Abeokuta South and Across Nigeria

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8 hours ago

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December 21, 2024

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Director General NSC, Bar. Bukola Olopade Extends Christmas Greetings to Christians in Abeokuta South and Across Nigeria

Director General NSC, Bar. Bukola Olopade Extends Christmas Greetings to Christians in Abeokuta South and Across Nigeria

 

 

By Solanke Ayomideji Taiwo

 

 

In a heartfelt message, The Director General of the National Sports Commission (NSC), Honourable Bukola Olopade, has extended warm festive greetings to Christians in Abeokuta South, Ogun State, and across Nigeria as the nation embarks on the joyous celebration of Christmas.

 

Director General NSC, Bar. Bukola Olopade Extends Christmas Greetings to Christians in Abeokuta South and Across Nigeria

 

Recognizing the significance of this time of year, Olopade emphasized the essence of unity, love, and gratitude that the Christmas season embodies. He urged citizens to reflect on the virtues of compassion and generosity, which are particularly vital in fostering peace and harmony in communities.

 

 

 

“Christmas is a time for joy, reflection, and togetherness. It reminds us of the values of love and kindness, which are fundamental to our social fabric,” said Olopade. “As we celebrate this festive season, let us remember those in need and extend a hand of support to one another.”

 

 

The Director General of the National Sports Commission (NSC), Honourable Bukola Olopade, acknowledged the challenges that many have faced over the past year, including economic hardships and social unrest, yet he expressed optimism for the future. “In the spirit of Christmas, let us embrace hope and look forward to a brighter tomorrow. Our unity and resilience can overcome any challenges we face.”

 

 

 

Olopade also highlighted the importance of sports in promoting peace and national unity, noting that the NSC is committed to fostering an inclusive environment where all Nigerians can participate in sports and recreational activities. He encouraged communities to engage in sports events during the festive period as a means to strengthen bonds and celebrate togetherness.

 

 

 

As part of his Christmas message, Olopade called on everyone to prioritize the welfare of others, particularly the less fortunate. He urged individuals and organizations to consider charitable acts that can uplift those in need during this season of giving.

 

 

 

In closing, Bar. Bukola Olopade wished all Nigerians a Merry Christmas filled with love, peace, and joy. He expressed hope that the spirit of the season would inspire a renewed commitment to community service and cooperation among citizens.

 

 

 

As the festivities continue, the Chairman’s message resonates with the values of compassion, unity, and hope, encouraging all to celebrate the true meaning of Christmas.

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OGSTEP Empowers Over 15,000 Artisans and Traders with Skills Development

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13 hours ago

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December 21, 2024

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OGSTEP Empowers Over 15,000 Artisans and Traders with Skills Development

The Ogun State Economic Transformation Project (OGSTEP) has successfully trained over 15,000 artisans and traders as part of its ongoing skills development initiative under the Ogun State Skills Fund (OSF).
This was disclosed by the Skills Development Specialist, Engr. Adesegun Fatoki, during a stakeholders’ meeting held at the Obas’ Complex, Oke-Mosan, Abeokuta. He revealed that the training program recorded 6,605 participants in Vocational/ICT skills, 4,989 in Entrepreneurship, and 5,288 in Functional Literacy Training.
Engr. Fatoki explained that the OSF training is designed to equip participants with the knowledge and skills to effectively manage their income and businesses. “So far, over 4,000 beneficiaries have completed their training in the first batch, while the second batch is currently underway across various trades. The third phase will target market women, artisans, and traders, bringing the initiative closer to grassroots communities,” he stated.
He encouraged artisans, market women, and traders to register for the ongoing third batch of the training by visiting www.osf.ogunstate.gov.ng. He assured that the program focuses on demand-driven skills and operates at various training centers across the state.
Emphasizing the government’s commitment to the program’s success, Engr. Fatoki reassured stakeholders that the initiative is non-partisan and designed solely for the benefit of market women, artisans, and traders.
In response, representatives of various groups expressed gratitude to the state government for the initiative and pledged to mobilize their members to take part in the training.
Speaking earlier, the Project Gender Specialist, Mrs. Ewajesu, highlighted the program’s goal of empowering artisans and traders with critical skills to thrive in today’s competitive economic landscape. She explained that the training also improves participants’ literacy and business management capabilities, enhancing productivity and strengthening the state’s economy.
Mrs. Ewajesu urged participants to make the most of the opportunity, noting that the skills acquired would position them for greater success in their respective trades.
The meeting was attended by representatives from the Remo, Ijebu, Yewa, and Egba Traders’ Associations, who expressed optimism about the program’s positive impact on their communities.

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Ibadan Funfair Tragedy: Ooni’s Ex-Queen Hospitalised as IG Leads Probe into Stampede

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20 hours ago

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December 21, 2024

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Ibadan Funfair Tragedy: Ooni’s Ex-Queen Hospitalised as IG Leads Probe into Stampede

Ibadan Funfair Tragedy: Ooni’s Ex-Queen Hospitalised as IG Leads Probe into Stampede

 

The Inspector General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun, has taken over investigations into the tragic stampede at a children’s funfair in Ibadan, Oyo State, which claimed the lives of 35 children and left six others injured. The incident occurred when over 7,500 participants, far exceeding the expected 5,000, rushed to gain entry to the event.

The funfair was reportedly organised by Prophetess Naomi Silekunola, the former queen of the Ooni of Ife, in collaboration with Ibadan-based broadcaster Oriyomi Hamzat.

Naomi, who was arrested alongside Hamzat, reportedly collapsed on Friday and was rushed to the Police Hospital at Eleyele for medical attention. A senior hospital staff member confirmed the development, stating, “Both of them are currently at the hospital. The police have secured the premises, and no further details can be disclosed.”

Eight individuals have been arrested in connection with the incident, according to Oyo State Police Command spokesperson Adewale Osifeso. A police source revealed that the Inspector General of Police has now taken charge of the case, stating, “For further details, you’ll need to contact Abuja.”

Victims and Medical Response

The Chairman of the Medical Advisory Council at Adeoyo State Specialist Hospital, Dr. Adeoye Allen-Taylor, confirmed that four children remain on admission. He added that some casualties were brought in dead and that the Oyo State Government is covering all medical expenses.

At the University College Hospital (UCH), Ibadan, five fatalities were reported, though none of the bodies were taken to the hospital’s mortuary. The Public Relations Officer of UCH, Funmi Adetuyibi, confirmed the death toll.

Government and Public Reactions

In response, the Oyo State Government mandated strict safety measures for all public events, especially those involving children and the elderly. Commissioner for Information and Culture, Prince Dotun Oyelade, warned event organisers of severe penalties for compromising public safety.

Governor Seyi Makinde, describing the tragedy as “painful and preventable,” announced the cancellation of his December 25th birthday celebrations to honor the victims. “There will be no birthday celebration this year. I will remain indoors to reflect,” the governor stated while receiving a condolence delegation from the South-East PDP, led by Senator Adolphus Wabara.

Condolences from PDP and Fayemi

The South-West chapter of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) expressed its condolences to the Oyo State Government and families of the victims. PDP Publicity Secretary Chief Sanya Atofarati attributed the tragedy to economic hardships, which he said pushed families to seek free entertainment for their children.

Former Ekiti State Governor, Dr. Kayode Fayemi, also extended his sympathies, urging authorities to prevent similar incidents in the future.

The investigation continues, as authorities work to uncover the causes of the tragedy and ensure accountability.

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