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Lara Banjoko Advocates Phased deregulation of the petroleum products sector  to ameliorate the suffering Nigerians

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Lara Banjoko Advocates Phased deregulation of the petroleum products sector  to ameliorate the suffering Nigerians

Lara Banjoko Advocates Phased deregulation of the petroleum products sector  to ameliorate the suffering Nigerians

Lara Banjoko, CEO, of Zone 4 Energy Limited and arguably the leading female force who holds the magic wand to turn the fortunes of any moribund petroleum sector company around has lent her voice to the total deregulation of petroleum products in Nigeria as a massive step for petroleum products availability and massive investment/increased employment in the Country.
Lara Banjoko Advocates Phased deregulation of the petroleum products sector  to ameliorate the suffering Nigerians

Lara Banjoko

Banjoko who is a force to be reckoned with in the oil and gas sector opined that deregulation of the petroleum products in phases is the way forward to ameliorate the suffering of Nigerians masses and enable the country implement cushions that will ameliorate the expected changes such a policy will bring to citizens…. She believes such deregulation must be carried out not in a knee jerk approach but with careful and thoughtful planning over a defined period to enable our citizens be able to accept and live with such policy direction.
Banjoko, who also agreed with Asiwaju Ahmed Tinubu on deregulation made the recommendation today in Lagos while reacting to the recurrent scarcity of PMS, also known as petrol in the country.
According to Banjoko,  currently, petrol (which is the primary mover of people across the different strata of Nigeria) is being subsidized under the recovery process in two different and distinct phases…
1. On the costs of purchase
2. On the foreign exchange component of the importation and supply. The product herein is being delivered using the CBN exchange and not the parallel market for such importation….
As such, the advocacy and advice will be a consideration and push towards a phased-out deregulation of the sector…
“The first step is suggested to be on the purchase pricing option. Wherein the foreign component is retained while the product is imported and sold on the prevailing international pricing benchmark”
Furthermore, she states that the second phase will be to remove the foreign exchange component and allow importation and delivery to be at the parallel market (though the belief is that the incoming government must phase out the current regime of multiple exchange rates.
It would be recalled that the deregulation of economic activities which gathered momentum in this country in 1986 under the general programme of Structural Adjustment has been a matter of intense debate among economists, bankers, and members of the public at large.
The monopolistic tendency of NNPC to provide all the petroleum products created some features which have made justification for the deregulation of the sector. The features include a low level of competition, smuggling of petroleum products, monopolistic and sharp practices, the existence of petroleum subsidies, poor maintenance of infrastructural facilities, distortions in product supply and distribution, inappropriate pricing of products supply, and high level of fraud and corruption. According to the PPPRA, Reginald (2009) and Igbikiowubo (2011), the Federal Government of Nigeria wants to deregulate the downstream sector of Nigeria’s oil industry in order to:
• Ensure that petroleum products are made available to consumers in an uninterrupted manner.
• Eradicate waste and corruption which are consequences of a tightly regulated economy. • Ensure that the supply and distribution of petroleum products are orderly and consumer friendly.
 • Channel money realized from the exercise to development projects that will be beneficial to the majority of the people.
 Notwithstanding the above, the office of the Chief Economic Adviser of the president in collaboration with the NNPC and the budget office of the Federation asserted that the rationale behind the Federal Government’s plan to deregulate the downstream petroleum sector includes:
 • To improve the efficient use of scarce economic resources by subjecting decisions in the sector to the operations of the forces of demand and supply.
 • Deregulation will further reduce economic waste and lightens social burdens caused by government control.
 • To expand opportunities for economic growth, a competitive sector and help achieve greater cost-effectiveness. Furthermore, Allison Madueke (2011) harped on the imperatives for the deregulation of the downstream sector including:
• Saving of cost in petroleum subsidies.
• Job creation opportunities.
• Downtime record in the existing refineries.
• Investment opportunities or foreign direct investment in the sector.
Lara Banjoko is the CEO of Zone4 Energy Limited. An epitome of beauty and brain, she is a successful business-woman who has worked so hard to make a name for herself.

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Among His Peers, Oba Orin Saheed Osupa Stands Out : The Fuji Star’s Storytelling Legacy By Alhaji Arems

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Among His Peers, Oba Orin Saheed Osupa Stands Out : The Fuji Star's Storytelling Legacy By Alhaji Arems

Among His Peers, Oba Orin Saheed Osupa Stands Out : The Fuji Star’s Storytelling Legacy

By Alhaji Arems

 

In the vibrant world of Fuji music, where the artistry of storytelling and cultural commentary thrive, Saheed Osupa has carved out a unique role as both an artist and an influencer of thought. Recently, his name has been lighting up social media discussions and generating significant buzz—not just because of his music but because of the depth of his words. Osupa’s trending status is rooted in his ability to subtly address pressing issues, particularly those surrounding the ongoing tension between fellow Fuji musicians Taye Currency and Pasuma Wonder.

 

 

Osupa’s recent contributions to this situation have not been straightforward; rather, he has adopted an artistic approach, using parables and proverbs—sometimes through complex storytelling—to impart wisdom. These nuanced messages, often hidden within his lyrics, resonate with fans who appreciate the clever way he brings age-old Yoruba wisdom into contemporary issues. One notable example involves a story about an animal (traditionally symbolizing patience and resilience) that many believe reflects Osupa’s thoughts on rivalry and pride. Through this parable, he seems to suggest the importance of self-reflection and restraint, especially in the heat of conflict.

Among His Peers, Oba Orin Saheed Osupa Stands Out : The Fuji Star's Storytelling Legacy

By Alhaji Arems

In a genre that values not only musicality but also the power of words, Osupa has long been seen as a master of *itan*, or storytelling. His recent songs echo the traditional Yoruba way of imparting wisdom through tales that serve as lessons. This is a skill that few artists have mastered, making his approach particularly impactful in today’s fast-paced digital world, where nuanced messages can often be overlooked.

Beyond the Taye Currency-Pasuma Wonder issue, Osupa’s trending status is also due to his reputation as a voice of reason and maturity in Fuji music. As a genre that is often vibrant and full of competitive spirit, Fuji has its share of rivalries. Yet, Osupa has often stood out by promoting unity and peaceful dialogue among Fuji artists. By sharing these reflective stories in his music, he adds layers of meaning that fans continue to unpack and discuss, drawing new audiences who appreciate both the artistry and wisdom behind his words.

The charm of Saheed Osupa lies in his timeless approach. In a world where trends are fleeting, he reminds fans of the importance of timeless values, urging reflection, humility, and understanding. As fans interpret and share his latest stories, Osupa’s message continues to resonate widely—proof that, in Fuji, the power of words can be as influential as the beat of the drum.

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What You Need To Know About Award-Winning Nigerian Actor, Mustapha Sholagbade

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What You Need To Know About Award-Winning Nigerian Actor, Mustapha Sholagbade

What You Need To Know About Award-Winning Nigerian Actor, Mustapha Sholagbade

 

Mustapha Ololade Sholagbade, born on January 1, 1989, in Ebute Metta, Lagos, is an accomplished Nigerian actor, producer, and filmmaker with a deep passion for Yoruba cinema. Originally from Abeokuta, Ogun State, he is the first child in his family. Sholagbade began his education at Kadara Primary School and continued at Sojomen Talabi High School, Akute, and Nawairudeen Secondary School, Ebute Metta. He later earned an Ordinary Narional Diploma in Business Administration from the Lagos State Polytechnic. Pursuing his passion for acting, he trained at Odunfa Caucus, where he graduated in 2010.

Sholagbade launched his acting career in 2005, making a name for himself in Yoruba-language films. His portfolio includes roles in popular films like Olowo Ghetto, Alaimo, Ebun Mi, Esi, Gold and Treasure, Liam, Emilomo Babaolowo, Oko Aunty Mi, Broken Bond (Tude), and Last Born. In addition to acting, he has also produced several films, further cementing his influence in the industry.

Beyond the entertainment world, Sholagbade is a versatile professional with experience in railway engineering, IT support, and site management in the UK. He is also a farmer and general merchant, demonstrating his entrepreneurial spirit and diverse skill set.

Throughout his career, Sholagbade has collaborated with top figures in Yoruba cinema, such as Yinka Quadri, Taiwo “Ogogo” Hassan, Funke Akindele, Femi Adebayo, Odun Adekola, Oga Bello, Baba Wande, Jide Kosoko, Funsho Adeolu, Fathia William Balogun, Saidi Balogun, Wunmi Toriola, and Mide Martins.

Sholagbade’s hobbies include traveling, business, football, filmmaking, and meeting new people, reflecting his dynamic and outgoing personality.

Sholagbade’s talent and dedication to his craft have earned him numerous accolades, including: Best Actor Yoruba – BON Awards, 2024, Best Supporting Actor– Afro Nollywood Awards, UK, 2019, Best Supporting Actor– Heritage Awards, Atlanta, USA, Best Supporting Actor of the Year (Yoruba) – City People Movie Awards, Best New Actor of the Year (Yoruba) – City People Movie Awards.

With his achievements and versatility, Mustapha Ololade Sholagbade remains a notable force in the Nigerian film industry and a proud ambassador of Yoruba cinema worldwide.

What You Need To Know About Award-Winning Nigerian Actor, Mustapha Sholagbade

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Coalition Congratulates Oluyede on Appointment as Acting COAS

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Coalition Congratulates Oluyede on Appointment as Acting COAS

Coalition Congratulates Oluyede on Appointment as Acting COAS

 

The Coalition of Civil Society Groups against Terrorism in Nigeria has congratulated Major-General Olufemi Oluyede on his appointment as the acting Chief of Army Staff, (Ag COAS, Nigerian Army).

Coalition Congratulates Oluyede on Appointment as Acting COAS

The Convener of the Coalition, Comrade Oladimeji Odeyemi, in a statement, said General Oluyede has the responsibility to consolidate the success achieved by the Nigerian Army under General Taoreed Lagbaja.

President Bola Tinubu had on Wednesday, October 30, appointed Oluyede as acting COAS pending the return of the indisposed substantive Chief of Army Staff, General Taoreed Lagbaja.

The Coalition said his appointment is a welcome development. It said: “Major-General Olufemi Oluyede is well qualified for the position. He was a member of the 39th regular course and commissioned as an officer in 1987. Aged 56, he was promoted to the rank of Major-General in September 2020. A professional and top-notch security expert, he brings a lot of hope and inspiration to younger officers as acting chief of Army Staff.

“His appointment is the way to go. As the acting Chief of Army Staff, Oluyede has the responsibility to lead an army that will administratively manage the institution, consolidate on the success achieved by General Lagbaja and his team to mop up remnants of insurgents, bandits and the ragtag criminal elements in the North, and dismantle the ethnic militias in the Southeast to bring peace in the country.

“The 56-year-old Oluyede shares a long history with General Lagbaja, with a track record and excellent service to the nation. Both are members of the 39th Regular Course and were commissioned as officers in 1987.

“Oluyede’s meritorious career began as a Platoon commander and adjutant at 65 Battalion, advancing to Company commander at 177 Guards Battalion and later Staff Officer at the Guards Brigade and commandant of Amphibious Training School.

“Oluyede has been part of many notable operations, including the ECOMOG Mission in Liberia, Operation HARMONY IV in Bakassi, and Operation HADIN KAI in the Northeast, where he commanded the 27 Task Force Brigade.

“He has received honours, including the Corps Medal of Honour, and Grand Service Star, all recognition for passing the Staff Course and membership in the National Institute, and his dedication and achievements in service.”

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