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Nigeria slips into recession Due To COVID-19,Oil Prices?

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CUSTOMSGATE: $3 BILLION PROJECT RUNS INTO DISPUTE

Interestingly, Nigeria has slipped into a recession after its gross domestic product contracted for the second consecutive quarter, according to official data released.

 

 

Nigeria slips into recession Due To COVID-19,Oil Prices?

 

Africa’s biggest economy is in recession for the first time since 2016. The recession four years ago was its first in a generation, and the country emerged from it the following year.

 

Nigeria slips into recession Due To COVID-19,Oil Prices?

However, growth has been fragile and COVID-19 has hit the economy hard, amid low oil prices.

The continent’s top oil producer and exporter relies on crude sales for 90 percent of foreign exchange earnings.

 

 

Nigeria normally accounts for an average output of two million barrels per day. But the effects of the pandemic and low oil prices have cut production to approximately 1.4 million barrels.

 

 

 

“Q3 2020 Real GDP contracted for second consecutive quarter by -3.62 percent,” Yemi Kale, the statistician general, said on Twitter on Saturday.

 

 

Oil sector hit hard

The oil sector contracted by 13.89 percent in the third quarter against growth of 6.49 percent in the same period a year earlier, according to data cited by Kale, while non-oil sectors shrank by 2.51 percent in the three months to September.

Following Nigeria’s first confirmed COVID-19 case in late February, lockdowns were imposed from late March until early May in the main cities – economic hub Lagos and the capital, Abuja.

Lockdowns were also imposed in some of the country’s other states and a ban was placed on interstate travel.

“The performance of the economy in Q3 2020 reflected residual effects of the restrictions to movement and economic activity implemented across the country in early Q2 in response to the COVID-19 pandemic,” the statistics office said in a report published on Saturday.

“As these restrictions were lifted, businesses reopened and international travel and trading activities resumed, some economic activities have returned to positive growth,” it said

Sahara weekly online is published by First Sahara weekly international. contact saharaweekly@yahoo.com

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Methodist Prelate Urges Nigerians to be Patient with President Tinubu

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Methodist Prelate Urges Nigerians to be Patient with President Tinubu

By Ifeoma Ikem

 

The Methodist Church Prelate, Dr. Oliver Alli Abah, has appealed to Nigerians to exercise patience with President Bola Tinubu’s administration, emphasizing that the country is undergoing a growth phase.

Dr. Abah made this plea during the Christmas service at the Methodist Church in Lagos, where he assured Nigerians that “there’s light in the tunnel” and better days are ahead.

According to Dr. Abah, President Tinubu is working diligently to ensure that everything is in place for Nigeria to thrive. He noted that the president’s decision to contest the election was motivated by a desire to address the country’s shortcomings and provide Nigerians with the dividends of democracy. Dr. Abah likened this to “a river flowing with honey,” symbolizing a brighter future for the nation.

Dr. Abah also highlighted the importance of love and unity among Nigerians, citing God’s manifestation of love through Jesus Christ. He emphasized that the absence of peace and the presence of war are indicative of a lack of love, and urged Nigerians to demonstrate their fear of God by embracing the love of Christ.

The Methodist Prelate further assured Nigerians that peace and harmony will prevail when they follow Christ’s instructions and keep his commandments. This message of hope and unity resonates with Nigerians as they look to the future with optimism.

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Spreading Hope Across the Nation: Pastor Adeboye Leads RCCG’s Let’s Go A-Fishing Outreach

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Spreading Hope Across the Nation: Pastor Adeboye Leads RCCG’s Let’s Go A-Fishing Outreach"

*Pastor Adeboye Brings The Good News Nationwide In RCCG’s Annual Let’s Go A-Fishing Outreach*

The Redeemed Christian Church of God (RCCG) wrapped up its annual ‘Let’s Go A-Fishing’ program nationwide from December 21st to 27th, 2024. With the theme “Good News,” this year’s program saw the General Overseer, Pastor Enoch Adejare Adeboye, fondly known as Daddy G.O., visiting select locations nationwide to share a message of hope and transformation.

Spreading Hope Across the Nation: Pastor Adeboye Leads RCCG’s Let’s Go A-Fishing Outreach"

 

*Spreading the Good News Across Nigeria*

While RCCG parishes and regions held their own ‘Let’s Go A-Fishing’ events nationwide, Daddy G.O. embarked on a journey across Delta, Ekiti, Ondo, Ogun, and Lagos states, visiting these locations to deliver the Good News. His itinerary included Agbarha-Otor in Delta State; Ilogbo in Ekiti State; Ore, Okitipupa, Akungba Akoko, and Akure in Ondo State; Ikenne, Ago-Iwoye, and Abeokuta in Ogun State; and Alagbado, Surulere, LASU, Lekki, and Epe in Lagos State.
Prominent figures, including the Ekiti State Governor, the Ondo State Deputy Governor, and royal fathers from hosting communities, attended the various locations. Their presence highlighted the program’s significance as a bridge between faith, leadership, and community engagement.

 

 

*A Message of Hope and Transformation*

At each location, Daddy G.O. shared the “Good News,” where he spoke passionately about Jesus Christ’s mission to save humanity, explaining how Christ came to earth, bore humanity’s sins, and offered salvation and eternal life to all who will believe. His message resonated deeply, leading to altar calls where thousands of attendees gave their lives to Christ.
In addition to his sermons, Daddy G.O. prayed for peace, prosperity, and spiritual renewal in the communities he visited. His heartfelt prayers brought comfort and inspiration to leaders and attendees alike.

 

 

 

 

*Touching Lives Beyond Words*

True to RCCG’s commitment to holistic ministry, the ‘Let’s Go A-Fishing’ program extended its reach beyond spiritual matters. Across the states, RCCG organized Christian Social Responsibility (CSR) initiatives, including free medical treatments, food distribution, and other welfare activities. These efforts provided tangible relief to families, demonstrating the church’s dedication to serving the soul and the body.

 

 

*A Legacy of Impact*

Since its inception more than two decades ago, the ‘Let’s Go A-Fishing’ program has become a cornerstone of RCCG’s mission to bring the Gospel to all corners of Nigeria.
Founded in 1952 by Pastor Josiah Akindayomi and now led by Daddy G.O., RCCG is one of the largest Pentecostal denominations globally, with a strong presence in communities worldwide. Its programs, including the Holy Ghost Service and Holy Ghost Congress, continue to transform lives.

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“‘Our Lives Matter’: Nigerians Demand Justice After Brutal Attack in Johannesburg”

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Nigerians in South Africa: Struggling for Justice Amid Violence and Xenophobia

Nigerians in South Africa: Struggling for Justice Amid Violence and Xenophobia

In a revealing interview with Biodun Busari, Frank Onyewekelu, President of the Nigerian Citizens Association in South Africa, sheds light on the challenges facing Nigerians in the country, from violent xenophobic attacks to systemic injustices. The recent killing of Julius Chukwunta, a Nigerian national, has reignited calls for diplomatic intervention and justice.

The Death of Julius Chukwunta

The tragic death of Julius Chukwunta unfolded in Midrand, Johannesburg, on December 7, 2024. According to Onyewekelu, Chukwunta was returning home with his South African partner, Miss Lumka, when an altercation occurred. After attempting to resolve a parking dispute with four individuals, Chukwunta was brutally attacked, sustaining fatal injuries.

“They inflicted heavy injuries on him by hitting a brick on his head, which led to a massive loss of blood,” Onyewekelu recounted. Despite being rushed to the hospital, Chukwunta succumbed to his injuries on December 10.

Legal Actions and Concerns Over Justice

Chukwunta’s partner reported the incident to the Midrand Police, leading to the arrest of the four suspects. However, Onyewekelu expressed disappointment in the judicial process after three of the suspects were granted bail for 10,000 rand each.

“The prosecutor had the right to oppose bail, especially when there is a risk of the suspects fleeing the country. Three of the attackers were Zimbabweans with South African residency, making them flight risks,” Onyewekelu explained.

The fourth suspect, yet to appoint a legal representative, is expected to apply for bail in the next hearing, scheduled for February 2025.

A Pattern of Violence and Neglect

Chukwunta’s death is not an isolated incident. Between November 2023 and December 2024, Onyewekelu reported 15 to 20 similar cases of Nigerians dying under questionable circumstances in South Africa.

“Many Nigerians have died in police custody or from brutal attacks, with little to no justice served,” he said. He cited incidents where Nigerians died during police raids or while in detention, often without explanations or follow-ups.

The Role of the Nigerian Government

Onyewekelu emphasized the need for stronger intervention from Nigerian authorities, urging the government to address these recurring issues diplomatically and publicly.

“We need more steps, such as media briefings, to make South Africans understand that Nigerian lives matter,” he stated. He also called for increased collaboration between the Nigerian consulate and South African authorities to ensure justice and prevent further incidents.

Debunking Stereotypes About Nigerians

Onyewekelu addressed the common misconception that Nigerians are taking jobs or resources from South Africans.

“Nigerians in South Africa are largely self-employed, running businesses and even employing South Africans,” he said. He also highlighted that accusations of Nigerians ‘stealing’ jobs are unfounded and often perpetuated by individuals unwilling to pursue legitimate work.

On relationships, he noted, “When love happens, it happens. Nigerian men are caring, and that’s why many South African women choose them.”

Efforts to Foster Safety and Awareness

The Nigerian Citizens Association organizes workshops, seminars, and town hall meetings to educate Nigerians on legal and cultural expectations in South Africa.

“We teach our people about the rule of law, documentation, and how to live legitimately. We want them to stay on the right side of the law,” Onyewekelu said.

The association also works closely with Nigerian cultural groups to disseminate information, ensuring unity and shared responsibility within the diaspora community.

A Plea for Justice and Peace

As the Nigerian community in South Africa continues to navigate a challenging environment, Onyewekelu’s message is clear: justice and fairness must prevail. He hopes for stronger diplomatic ties, increased awareness, and a commitment to protecting lives and fostering peace between Nigerians and South Africans.

“We’re not asking for special treatment. We’re asking for fairness and the right to live safely and thrive in a foreign land,” he concluded.

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