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Emirates launches India humanitarian air bridge to transport urgent COVID-19 relief items

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Emirates’ one-of-a-kind flight EK2021 proudly made a journey across the different emirates this week , to signal the aviation industry’s readiness for a travel rebound. It was also to celebrate the UAE’s remarkable vaccination programme that has administered close to 9 million vaccines doses to date. The special flight, which carried fully vaccinated crew and passengers onboard, was unprecedented in the industry in scale. With close to 400 fully vaccinated customers onboard, the flight illustrates confidence and undiminished excitement for air travel. EK2021 was also supported by fully vaccinated teams across the aviation eco-system, from onboard crew to ground staff, demonstrating the readiness of the UAE’s aviation eco-system to support the safe rebound of air travel. In spite of the pandemic, the UAE has maintained its status as a leading global aviation hub and it will continue to grow its position as a hub for passengers and cargo traffic by investing in innovations and close collaborations with all stakeholders. Onboard EK2021 was a group of senior officials from key aviation and health sector entities hosted by Emirates. His Highness Sheikh Ahmed bin Saeed Al Maktoum, Chairman and Chief Executive, Emirates Airline & Group said: “The UAE’s rapid pace and progress in vaccinating our population is a testament of our leadership’s vision and commitment to safeguard our communities, and manage the pandemic by adopting the appropriate measures to protect both nationals and residents. Today’s flight is a showcase of the combined efforts and dedication of all stakeholders in supporting the vaccination programme, and the implementation of protocols in the past 12 months to ensure a safe travel journey, stimulate passenger traffic and set the groundwork for the ramp up of air travel in the near future. Emirates continues to support the national vaccination programme and we are pleased with the progress made within the group in vaccinating our employees.” The special flight was operated with Emirates’ newest A380 aircraft which featured the airline’s brand-new Premium Economy seats, and refreshed cabin interiors across every cabin class. First and Business Class customers were able to safely network and mingle in the iconic A380 Onboard Lounge. Combining the most advanced aviation technology and an inspired cabin design, The A380 remains a customer favourite for its unmatched comfort and spaciousness. This month, Airbus launched a travel companion app called “Tripset”. The application aggregates and provides flight and travel information to ease and restore passenger’s trust in their end-to-end journey when traveling by air during the COVID-19 pandemic. Providing passengers with the latest and most relevant travel conditions, restriction and health requirements in place, without having to consult a variety of sources. Tripset is part of Airbus’ continuing commitment, alongside airlines, industry partners and regulatory agencies, to encourage the flying public to keep trust in air travel, supporting the safe and well-coordinated return to flight, which is essential for economic recovery from COVID-19. On the ground, passengers checked in using the latest biometric technologies for a seamless journey across multiple touchpoints. Biometric touchpoints were recently expanded to include over 18 check-in desks and 15 boarding gates at the airport. As a result, customers across all classes enjoyed seamless biometric entry to experience the First and Business Class lounge at DXB. All EK2021 passengers were provided rapid COVID-19 PCR tests, facilitated by Pure Health. Pure Health, the largest integrated healthcare solutions provider in the UAE, has facilitated the administration of up to 4 million PCR tests at Dubai Airports to date. It has also played a vital role in providing COVID-19 testing support to the aviation industry at large, since the start of the pandemic. As passengers disembarked, they were handed commemorative certificates for taking part in this initiative. EK2021 was commanded by UAE National Captain Ahmed Al Obeidli, First Officer Ramon Wilde and flight deck crew were supported by Captain Ricky Garala. All proceeds for EK2021 have been donated to the Emirates Airline Foundation, the airline’s non-profit charity organisation which supports projects around the world aimed at improving the quality of life for disadvantaged children around the world.
Emirates launches India humanitarian air bridge to transport urgent COVID-19 relief items
Emirates has set up a humanitarian airbridge between Dubai and India to transport urgent medical and relief items, to support India in its fight to control the serious COVID-19 situation in the country.
Emirates will offer cargo capacity free of charge on an “as available” basis on all of its flights to nine cities in India, to help international NGOs deliver relief supplies rapidly to where it is needed.
In the past weeks, Emirates SkyCargo has already been transporting medicines and medical equipment on scheduled and charter cargo flights to India. This latest airbridge initiative takes Emirates’ support for India and for the NGO community to the next level.
HH Sheikh Ahmed bin Saeed Al Maktoum, Emirates’ Chairman and Chief Executive, said: “India and Emirates are deeply connected, since our first flights to India in 1985. We stand with the Indian people and will do all we can to help India get back on its feet. Emirates has a lot of experience in humanitarian relief efforts, and with 95 weekly flights to 9 destinations in India, we will be offering regular and reliable widebody capacity for relief materials. The International Humanitarian City in Dubai is the largest crisis relief hub in the world and we will work closely with them to facilitate the movement of urgent medical supplies.”
The first shipment sent as part of the Emirates India humanitarian airbridge is a consignment of over 12 tons of multi-purpose tents from the World Health Organization (WHO), destined for Delhi, and coordinated by the IHC in Dubai.
Giuseppe Saba, CEO of International Humanitarian City (IHC), said: “The Humanitarian City was built to assist communities and families, most in need – around the world. Last year over 1,292 shipments were dispatched from the IHC in Dubai, setting the standard for humanitarian response globally.”
The freight division of Emirates has a close partnership with IHC, developed over several years of delivering relief materials to communities across the world impacted by natural disasters and other crises. IHC will support Emirates SkyCargo in channeling relief efforts to India through the airbridge.
Following the Port of Beirut blasts in August 2020, Emirates also leveraged its expertise in humanitarian logistics to set up an airbridge to Lebanon to assist with relief efforts.
Emirates has led the aviation and air cargo industry in its efforts to help markets around the world combat the COVID-19 pandemic. The air cargo carrier has helped transport thousands of tonnes of urgently required PPE and other medical supplies across six continents over the last year by rapidly adapting its business model and introducing additional cargo capacity through its modified mini freighters with seats removed from Economy Class on Boeing 777-300ER passenger aircraft along with loading cargo on seats and in overhead bins inside passenger aircraft to transport urgently required materials.
In addition, Emirates SkyCargo has partnered with UNICEF and other entities in Dubai through the Dubai Vaccine Logistics Alliance, to transport COVID-19 vaccines rapidly to developing nations through Dubai. So far, close to 60 million doses of COVID-19 vaccines have been transported on Emirates’ flights, equating to nearly 1 in 20 of all COVID-19 vaccine doses administered around the world.
Through its scheduled cargo flights to close to 140 destinations across six continents, Emirates helps maintain unbroken supply chains for vital commodities such as medical supplies and food.

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NLC vs Telecom Tariff Hike: NSCDC Deploys Troops, Warns of National Security Threat as Labour Vows to Fight On

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NLC vs Telecom Tariff Hike: NSCDC Deploys Troops, Warns of National Security Threat as Labour Vows to Fight On

NLC vs Telecom Tariff Hike: NSCDC Deploys Troops, Warns of National Security Threat as Labour Vows to Fight On

Tensions are running high as the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) has warned the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) against its planned March 1 shutdown of telecommunications services over the recent 50% tariff hike. The NSCDC announced it has deployed operatives nationwide to protect telecom base stations and prevent any disruptions during the protest.

The NLC has vowed to press ahead with its plan to shut down the operations of major telecom providers like MTN, Airtel, and Glo unless the Nigerian Communications Commission reverses the price hike by February’s end. The union has also directed Nigerians to boycott telecom services from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. daily until further notice, citing a breach of public trust by the operators.

NSCDC spokesperson Babawale Afolabi, in a chat with The PUNCH on Sunday, stressed that any disruption to telecom services could expose the country to increased criminal activities and compromise national security. “The NSCDC will not allow any action that could jeopardize the nation’s security. We are on red alert, and any illegal activity during the protest will be dealt with according to the law,” Afolabi warned.

A nationwide deployment of NSCDC personnel, including undercover and intelligence officers, has been ordered to maintain round-the-clock surveillance at telecom facilities. The agency cited credible intelligence suggesting that hoodlums could hijack the protest, using it as an opportunity for vandalism and looting.

Meanwhile, the Private Telecommunications and Communications Senior Staff Association of Nigeria (PTECSSAN) and the Association of Telecommunications Companies of Nigeria (ATCON) have criticized the NLC’s plan. PTECSSAN Secretary-General Abdullahi Okonu argued that the tariff hike is necessary due to rising operational costs, including the removal of fuel subsidies. “The NLC acted in error by not consulting our union before making decisions,” Okonu said.

ATCON President Tony Emoekpere echoed the sentiment, calling the planned shutdown “misguided.” “This is an industry-wide challenge, not just a labour issue. Resorting to such drastic actions will only harm the economy,” he explained.

However, NLC leaders remain defiant. Lagos State NLC Chairperson Funmi Sessi dismissed the NSCDC’s warnings as intimidation tactics. “No one can threaten us! This is about our commonwealth. If necessary, we will shut down electricity too. Let them do their worst,” she declared.

The NLC maintains that the tariff increase represents a betrayal of public trust, given the government’s earlier agreement to review the proposed hike before any implementation. The union also slammed the government for failing to protect citizens from corporate exploitation.

As the standoff intensifies, the NSCDC is calling for dialogue to avoid any potential disruption. “Dialogue remains the best solution, and we hope organized labour will listen to reason,” Afolabi added.

With both sides digging in, the nation braces for potential unrest in the coming days.

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Zero Processing Fee; GTBank Removes POS Processing Fees to Support Businesses

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Zero Processing Fee; GTBank Removes POS Processing Fees to Support Businesses

 

Lagos, Nigeria – Wednesday, 12 February 2025 – Guaranty Trust Bank Ltd has announced the removal of processing fees on all GTBank POS terminals, reinforcing its commitment to supporting businesses with cost-effective payment solutions.

 

This initiative, which took effect Tuesday, 11 February 2025, communicates that merchants using GTBank POS terminals will no longer incur Merchant Service Charges (MSC) when receiving payments from customers.

 

With this initiative, all qualifying SME Merchants can now receive payments at zero cost, allowing them to reduce operational expenses, whilst promoting the merchant’s enterprise, and enhancing customer experience.
Speaking on the initiative, Miriam Olusanya, Managing Director, Guaranty Trust Bank Nigeria, said: “At Guaranty Trust Bank, we are always looking for ways to add value to our financial ecosystem. By implementing the zero processing fees on POS transactions, we are empowering businesses to get the full value of every payment they receive, whilst also ensuring a more seamless and efficient payment experience.”
The Zero Processing Charge campaign aligns with GTBank’s ongoing efforts to empower businesses with innovative financial solutions that drive growth and efficiency.

 

For more information, merchants are encouraged to contact their Relationship Managers or reach out to the Digital Banking Support Team at [email protected].
About GTBank

 

Guaranty Trust Bank (GTBank) is a leading financial institution committed to delivering innovative banking solutions that empower businesses and individuals. With a strong focus on technology and customer satisfaction, GTBank continues to redefine the banking experience across Africa and beyond.

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Nigerian Officials Condemn Canada’s Visa Denial to Military Leaders

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Nigerian Officials Condemn Canada’s Visa Denial to Military Leaders

Nigerian Officials Condemn Canada’s Visa Denial to Military Leaders

 

The Federal Government and former diplomats have condemned Canada’s decision to deny visas to top Nigerian military officials, including the Chief of Defence Staff, Gen. Christopher Musa, and other senior officers. The controversy arose after Gen. Musa revealed that several high-ranking officials were barred from attending a Canadian event honoring war veterans, leaving some delegation members stranded.

 

National Security Adviser Nuhu Ribadu expressed outrage at the development during the maiden annual lecture of the National Association of the Institute for Security Studies in Abuja on Thursday. Ribadu described the visa denial as “disrespectful” and declared, “Canada can go to hell.” He applauded Musa for addressing the issue publicly and emphasized the need for Nigeria to strengthen its internal capacity.

 

“Even though it’s painful and disrespectful, we are peaceful, we are strong, and I agree with you—it is time to fix our country. This is yet another reason we must work hard to make Nigeria work,” Ribadu stated.

 

Gen. Musa called the incident a “wake-up call” for Nigeria to stand firm against being taken for granted by foreign nations. “This is a reminder that we must stand on our own, stand strong as a nation, and refuse to be taken for granted,” he urged.

An official from the Canadian High Commission, speaking anonymously, indicated that an official response would be provided on Friday.

Former Nigerian Ambassador to Cameroon, Ambassador Rasheed Akinkuolie, criticized the visa denial as inconceivable and proposed a reciprocal delay in processing Canadian visa applications. He also recommended summoning the Canadian High Commissioner for an explanation.

“High officials of the rank of the CDS, COAS, and Service Chiefs should normally hold diplomatic passports. Application for visas of such top officials should be routed through the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, and forwarded with a Note Verbale,” Akinkuolie explained. “If such a denial occurs, the Nigerian mission in Canada should delay all diplomatic, official, and private applications of Canadians visiting Nigeria as a reciprocal measure.”

Ambassador Akinkuolie also emphasized the importance of limiting delegations to official personnel to avoid unnecessary complications.

Similarly, retired Ambassador to Algeria, Amb. Mohammed Mabdul, described the visa denial as “highly undiplomatic” and urged the Canadian High Commission to reconsider. “The issue of security should not be taken for granted,” Mabdul warned, stressing that diplomatic relations should not be jeopardized by such actions.

However, former Nigerian Ambassador to the Philippines, Yemi Farounbi, criticized Ribadu’s language, calling it undiplomatic.

“I don’t think the NSA handled the matter in the best possible way, and the language used cannot be considered diplomatic,” Farounbi said. He suggested that the issue should have been referred to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs.

“Every sovereign nation has the right to grant or deny visas to any applicant. Considering the bilateral relationship, the matter could have been addressed through diplomatic channels. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs is the best agency for handling such matters, and they would have used appropriate language,” he added.

Farounbi further warned against ministries and agencies taking on roles that fall under the Ministry of Foreign Affairs.

“There are instances where top officials visit foreign countries without informing the Nigerian Embassy in those countries. This is not how such matters should be handled,” he said.

As diplomatic tensions rise, all eyes are on Canada’s official response and any potential actions Nigeria may take to address the issue.

 

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