FEATURES

Why we rejected helicopter landing levy - Airline operators

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The Airline Operators of Nigeria (AON) has explained why it rejected the helicopter landing levies for stakeholders.

In a statement on Thursday by Obiora Okonkwo, its spokesperson, AON said regulators do not provide any service to helicopter operators that would justify the imposition of the fee.

On May 31, the ministry of aviation and aerospace development announced that the helicopter landing levy was temporarily suspended after pushback from stakeholders — one month after approval of the levy.

Speaking on the issue, the AON said the collection of the fee by Naebi Dynamic Concepts Limited negates the legal frameworks of the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN) and the Nigerian Airspace Management Agency (NAMA).

“AON rejects the imposition of the Helicopter Landing and Take-off Fee for the following reasons: NAMA does not provide any additional service to helicopter operators to justify the imposition of the fee at all helipads, oil rig platforms, FSPOs, FSOs, etc. in Nigeria,” the statement reads.

“The approval and imposition of the Helicopter Landing and Take-off Fee at private helipads, oil rig platforms, FSPOs, FSOs etc when no service is provided at those locations to the helicopter operators by NAMA is contrary to the provision of section 7 (1) (r) of the then applicable NAMA Act as well as to section 1, paragraph 2 (1) of ICAO Document 9082.

“NAMA did not adhere to the policies, principles and guidelines contained in ICAO Documents 9082 (ICAO’s Policies on Charges for Airports and Air Navigation Services) and 9161 (Manual on Air Navigation Services Economics) before imposing the Helicopter Landing and Take-off Fee.”

Citing part 18, Section 18.8.1.1 (e) of the Nigeria Civil Aviation Regulations, the association said NAMA is required to adhere to the policies, principles, and guidelines contained in the documents.

The AON added that NAMA did not obtain the approval of the Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA) before imposing the new fee on operators.

The group said the NCAA has the statutory power to regulate the charges made with respect to air traffic control and for the use of aerodromes and services provided at such aerodromes.

According to AON, NAMA did not consult “the helicopter operators and other stakeholders before imposing the Helicopter Landing and Take-off Fee”.

‘HELICOPTER FEE CHARGED IN DOLLARS INSTEAD OF NAIRA’

According to the association, the fee is charged and requested in dollars, contrasting the provision of Section 15 of the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) Act, which is “clear that the unit of currency in Nigeria shall be the Naira”.

“There is nowhere in the world where the Air Navigation Service Provider does not provide any service to helicopter operators but charges landing and take-off fees for landings and take—off on and from private helipads, oil rig platforms, FSPOs, FSOs, etc.,” the association said.

“The examples given by the Ministry of Aviation and Aerospace Development in the Press Release of 13th May 2024 of where landing and take-off fee is paid are all of airports.”

The engagement of Naebi Dynamic Concepts, AON said, “did not follow due process” as it failed to comply with the requirements of the Public Procurement Act for the procurement of the services of consultants.

The group thanked Festus Keyamo, aviation minister, for temporarily suspending the levy and for his leadership of the aviation industry and support for the growth and sustainability of Nigerian air operators.

Hardship: Be calm, Tinubu working to improve economy – Akume

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…says national grid shutdown treasonable

…warns Labour against destructive strikes, others

FCT, Abuja-The Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF), Senator George Akume, has called on Nigerians to remain calm amidst economic challenges, assuring them that President Bola Tinubu is working diligently to improve the economy.

Addressing the National Executive Council of CAN, on Thursday, June 6, Akume outlined several measures the government is taking to address current hardships and also cautioned labour not to make decision that would jeopardize the efforts of the Tinubu-led administration.

Akume also hinted that the current administration took over a turbulent country, citing that the country’s foreign reserves and many other sectors were poorly managed.

“We took over in a very turbulent weather. Foreign reserves were zero, but there have been massive reforms carried out by the president. One of them, which appeared to be a little bit tough for people to understand, is the subsidy removal of fuel. People should stop shouting; they need to know the actual truth,” Akume stated.

He emphasized that the current administration has taken swift actions in implementing palliatives to cushion the effects of these reforms.

“We are all aware of the 35,000 naira wage award for workers, which means a 30,000 naira minimum wage with 35,000 on top of that. Additionally, 100 billion naira for CNG fuel buses will help reduce transportation costs and food prices,” he added.

Akume also highlighted the government’s efforts in supporting various sectors, including the allocation of 125 billion naira in conditional grants and financial inclusion for medium and small enterprises, and 150 billion naira in palliative loans to states to mitigate the impact of fuel subsidy removal. “

We are providing 200 billion naira to support the cultivation of hectares of land, which is even more now,” he added.

Addressing recent disruptions, Akume condemned the shutdown of the national grid, labeling it as a treasonable offense.

“Nowhere in the world has labor ever tampered with the national grid. It is treason! Treasonable felony is economic sabotage, you don’t do that.

“We are trying to rebuild the economy. The president is picking up, and they want to destroy it. Of what use is that to all of us? That is not the way”, he said.

Reflecting on the process of setting the minimum wage, Akume explained, “In 2019, the minimum wage was legislated up to 30,000 naira. It is an exclusive issue in the constitution, not on the concurrent list, but on the exclusive legislative list. That is why it is the federal government, working with organized private sector and labor, that recommends it to the president for the national assembly’s attention.”

Reassuring the public, Akume stated, “It is not that we are not working. We are working, and that is why we implemented the 35,000-naira wage, which is more than the minimum wage. There are buses ready to be distributed, and soon, rice and other essentials will be available.”

Akume stressed the importance of collaboration between the church and the government in providing essential services such as education, health, and agriculture.

“The church must collaborate with the government in providing facilities for people whether it is in education, health, or agriculture. We don’t separate; we combine. There is a symbiotic relationship that can never be destroyed,” he said.

He concluded by emphasizing the government’s focus on productivity and economic stability.

“Our people must rise up and have something in their pockets. It is not about demanding 100,000 naira without productivity. We are looking at controlling inflation and ensuring a balanced economy,” he asserted.

Microfinance Bank launches 'ram loans scheme' for Sallah celebrations

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The Yobe Microfinance Bank says it has launched a “ram loans scheme” for Sallah celebrations.

Sheriff Almuhajir, the bank’s chief executive officer (CEO), disclosed this in an interview with NAN in Damaturu on Thursday.

The financial institution is a state-licensed microfinance bank in Yobe state, north eastern Nigeria.

Almuhajir said the bank has initiated a N150 million facility to enable its customers to purchase animals for sacrifice during the Eid el-Adha celebration, slated for June 16.

Eid el-Adha, also known as the ‘feast of sacrifice’, is the second of the two main holidays celebrated in Islam to commemorate Prophet Ibrahim’s devotion to sacrifice his son as an act of obedience to God’s command.

The sacrifice of animals such as rams, sheep, cattle, and goats is a symbolic ritual performed by Muslims across the globe to celebrate the day.

“This loan scheme is designed to support civil servants in Yobe, especially those working with state and local councils during the festive season,” Almuhajir said.

The bank’s CEO said the facility would be carried out under the Sallah ram loans scheme and divided into categories A and B for disbursement.

According to Almuhajir, customers in category A would receive N150,000, while those in category B would receive N75,000.

He said the loan would be repaid monthly, with customers in category A paying N6,000; while those in the second group would pay N3,300.

Almuhajir said the conditions for obtaining the loan include having an account with the bank with a minimum balance of N2,500 for automated teller machine (ATM) cards and other services.

The CEO said applicants must purchase a form from the banking hall for N1,000 and be civil servants on the payroll of the state or local government councils.

Other requirements include the provision of two passport photographs, the national identification number (NIN), a payment slip and other relevant documents.

He said the initiative aims to assist individuals and families who may not be able to immediately afford a ram for the festivities.

75 percent of those we support with food, clothes, others are Nigerian students - UK Charity

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Seventy-five percent of the clients at Thornaby’s Sprouts Community Food Charity (SCFC) are now Nigerian students grappling with financial difficulties, charity manager Debbie Fixter revealed. The charity, which offers food, clothes, and household items, has experienced a surge in Nigerian students seeking help.

Fixter told BBC News that the charity has reached its “maximum capacity.” SCFC reported a shift in its clientele in recent months, with the majority of visitors being Nigerian master’s degree students from Teesside University.

Nigerian students in the United Kingdom have recently been making headlines, with some being blocked from continuing their studies and ordered to return to Nigeria due to unpaid tuition fees. The devaluation of the Nigerian currency has reportedly wiped out some students’ savings, forcing them to cut back on essentials.

Fixter noted that an increasing number of Nigerian students in the UK are turning to community charities and organizations for much-needed assistance. “They’re really struggling, they need help, and they’re part of our community,” she said.

Boluwatife Elusakin, a Nigerian student in the UK, told the BBC that he has had to “dive deep” to afford the cost of living and studying in the UK. “Things are no longer the same, I’ve had to cut costs because of the currency crash. It hit my savings as I’d already budgeted funds to come here. It makes me feel sad, but I hope I can endure just one year and all will be well,” he said.

Another student, who wished to remain anonymous, criticized the university for changing its payment plans from seven installments to three, exacerbating the problem. He also pointed out that students hoping to find jobs to fill funding gaps are limited by the number of hours they are legally allowed to work.

“When I was applying, the exchange rate was around 600 naira per pound, but by the time I arrived, it was 1,400. At the time we filled out forms, we had proof of funds to cater for nine months. But the money is not enough; you don’t have a job or the means to get one. The little you have is depleting, and a lot of us are facing difficulties. When you don’t have funds in your pocket, frustration sets in and many are experiencing mental health issues. Some wish they had never come.”

Fixter emphasized that more needs to be done to address the crisis, stating that SCFC is currently at “maximum capacity” and struggling to meet the demand for assistance.

Emirate Tussle: Court Fixes June 13 For Ruling On Jurisdiction

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A Federal High Court in Kano has postponed the ruling on jurisdiction in the ongoing legal battle concerning the Kano emirate dispute.

The case, which has captured widespread public interest, will see its next significant development on June 13, as confirmed by Justice Abdullahi Muhammad Liman during Thursday’s session.

The legal contest stems from a petition filed by Aminu Babba Dan Agundi, known as the Sarkin Dawaki Babba of the Kano Emirate.

The applicant is challenging the actions of various state entities and security agencies, including the Kano State Government, the Kano State House of Assembly, and law enforcement authorities, regarding the implementation of a repealed law that impacts the governance of the Kano Emirate.

During Thursday’s proceedings, heated exchanges were noted between the representatives of both sides, reflecting the case’s high stakes. M.S Waziri, the counsel for the applicant, indicated that a written address had been submitted on June 6, seeking judicial intervention to halt the enforcement of the contentious state actions.

The respondents in this significant legal confrontation include the Kano State Government, the Speaker of the Kano State House of Assembly, the state’s Attorney General, the Kano Commissioner of Police, the Inspector General of Police (IGP), the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), and the Department of State Services (DSS).

“On the issue of jurisdiction, in compliance with the order of the court, we have filed a written address dated 6th June and hereby adopt same and maintain that the court has jurisdiction to entertain the matter because the issue is of fundamental human rights.

“The applicant as a member of Kano emirate Kingmakers ought to have been involved in the reinstatement of the new emir. My lord, breach of fundamental rights has no timeline. I urge the court to proceed with the case.”

Responding, counsel for the first and fourth respondents, Mahmoud Abubakar Magaji (SAN), urged the court to decline the jurisdiction to entertain the matter.

He argued that the law had gone through legislative processes, the order came only after the action was taken, and his client was only served on Monday of the following week.

He therefore urged the court to decline to entertain the matter on the issue of jurisdiction.

“We filed a written address dated June 3 and filed June 6. In the constitution, only the Kano State House of Assembly has the authority and power to make law.

“The applicant is neither a member of the House of Assembly or the Commissioner for Chieftaincy Affairs. The applicant may not need to be consulted,” he said.

On his part, counsel for the second and third respondents, Ibrahim Isah Wangida, aligned himself with the submission of the first and second respondents, arguing that the applicant cannot claim his right was breached as the 2024 law was repealed and accented to before the applicant filed action.

“The 2019 Kano emirate council law, which gave the power to the applicant at the time of filing his action, was abolished, so he seized to be a kingmaker as of the time he filed the action because the governor has already accented to the law.”

For their part, counsel for the fifth and sixth respondents, Sunday Ekwe, told the court that they did not file any issue bordering on jurisdiction because the police’s duty is to maintain peace and wait to carry out the court’s order.

The judge adjourned the case to June 13 for ruling on jurisdiction.

Nine Crude Oil Thieves Arrested As NSCDC Dismantles 3 Bunkering Sites At Rivers-Abia Boundary

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The Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) has apprehended nine suspects involved in crude oil theft and pipeline vandalism.

The operation was carried out by the NSCDC Commandant-General’s Special Intelligence Squad (CG’s SIS).

The CG, Dr. Ahmed Abubakar Audi, commended the squad for their dedication and effectiveness during the operation.

According to the information made available to THE WHISTLER on Thursday by CSC Babawale Afolabi, the National Public Relations Officer of NSCDC, the arrests were made in the dense forest area of Ommuma/Owaza, located at the boundary between Rivers and Abia States.

The SIS Commander, DC Appolos Dandaura, who gave details of the operation, revealed that the squad had conducted strategic surveillance based on sustained intelligence on the crime scene.

He noted that the suspects were caught in the act of refining stolen crude oil from a vandalized oil wellhead, adding that during the operation, a local refinery under construction, with the capacity to produce 60,000 liters of crude oil, was also discovered.

“Based on sustained intelligence we placed strategic surveillance on the crime scene and apprehended 9 suspects caught in the act of illegally refining stolen crude extracted from a vandalized Oil Well Head; we also discovered an ongoing construction of a local refinery with the capacity to produce 60,000 litres of crude at once.

“While on operational tour across the terrain, we uncovered about 3 well constructed illegal local refineries where crude is being siphoned through the vandalized well head with large hoses connected to transmit crude to Cooking ovens and later channelled to reservoirs after processing; thereafter loading is finally done.

“Visibly at the massive illegal bunkering site you will notice how large hoses and galvanized metal pipes were laid to transfer stolen crude across the processing channels; the site occupied over 15 Modular ovens with 4 fabricated reservoirs and 30 pits dug out to store processed AGO,” said DC Dandaura

The arrested suspects were identified as, ”Oghene Wede (M) 32years, Moses James (M) 25years, Chidi Nwosu (M) 53years, Samuel John (M) 24years, Emmanuel Paul (M) 20years, Oghenevo Nwebi (M) 43years, Martina Whinnypeter (F) 38Years, Nwabuchi Nwogu (M) 41 years and David Okere (M) 20years.”

Dandaura further stated that some exhibits recovered during the operations are: RWD 5.0 GFE-6500 Power Generating Set, 2 Yellow Colour Pumping Machines, Metal and Plastic buckets, Cutlasses, Saw, Mats, Welding Machine, Galvanized metal pipes, different heavy-duty hoses, Head flashlights, some Automotive Gas Oil (AGO) illegally processed in cooking ovens.

He said an investigation is underway to determine the level of involvement of each suspect and identify their sponsors and upon completion of the investigation, the suspects will be charged to court to serve as a deterrent to others engaging in similar activities.

NDLEA Arrests 34-Year-Old Lady, Three Other Intending Hajj Pilgrims With 2.20kg Of Cocaine In Lagos

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Operatives of the National Drug Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) have arrested four intending pilgrims with plans to ingest 200 pellets of cocaine in their hotel rooms ahead of their Hajj trip to Saudi Arabia.

The Agency revealed this in a statement, signed by its spokesperson, Femi Babafemi on Thursday.

The NDLEA said the pellets of cocaine weighing 2.20 kilograms were found in their possession when its operatives stormed their rooms at an undisclosed hotel in Lagos, where they were lodged.

The suspects: Usman Kamorudeen, 31; Olasunkanmi Owolabi, 46; Fatai Yekini, 38; and a lady, Ayinla Kemi, 34 were scheduled to leave on a Wednesday, for the ongoing Hajj when they were arrested.

“One hundred wraps of the Class A substance were recovered from each of the two rooms bringing the total seizure to 200 wraps. Two suspects were to swallow 100 wraps each,” the Agency revealed.

While commending the NDLEA operatives, the NDLEA Chairman/Chief Executive Officer, Brig.-Gen., Mohamed Marwa said the agency will continue to spread its dragnet to track, trace and apprehend criminal elements who may want to hide under pilgrimage to carry out their nefarious activities.

He said, “The Agency will work with our counterparts in Saudi Arabia to ensure that the designated recipients of seized illicit drug consignments in any part of Saudi Arabia are also traced and dealt with accordingly.”

Foreign Footwear Giant To Set Up Factory In Abia

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Comfort Stevens Industries, a collaboration between US, Chinese, and Brazilian companies, has announced plans to establish a footwear factory in Owerrinta, Abia.

Dr. John Nwankwo, CEO of Comfort Stevens, disclosed this on Wednesday, during a meeting with the Abia State Governor, Dr. Alex Otti.

He stated that the factory, with a daily production capacity of 15,000 shoes, aims to boost local manufacturing, create jobs, and strengthen the “Made-in-Aba” brand.

Mr. Levi Sotomayor, a foreign partner, emphasized the importance of a public-private partnership for success and the establishment of an artisan academy.

This collaboration according to Sotomayor would facilitate knowledge and technology transfer, bolster local manufacturing, and support large-scale export of finished leather products.

Another foreign partner, Mr. Hon Chik, added that the project would integrate Abia State into the global footwear industry, which holds substantial promise for the region.

He expressed confidence in the project’s potential for success.

Governor Otti welcomed the investment and reaffirmed his administration’s focus on revitalizing local manufacturing and creating a business-friendly environment.

He acknowledged the importance of local production for economic development and expressed admiration for the resilience of Aba’s existing shoemakers.

“One of our government’s key priorities is job creation. We sometimes prioritize job opportunities for our youth over company analysis.

“Our administration is willing to collaborate with Comfort Stevens to establish an academy for artisans and enhance footwear production in the state.

“We are encouraged by your plans to train and upscale our shoemakers. Many of them lack the right tools, skills, and patience. It would be beneficial for Comfort Stevens to not only produce products but also run a finishing school for our youth. Introducing technology to them will significantly improve their output,” Otti said.

Governor Otti assured that the government would ensure a steady power supply to the Owerrinta shoe factory and noted ongoing infrastructure improvements, such as the dualization of the road from Imo River to Umuikaa Junction, to facilitate seamless transportation.

Nigerian In Australia Jailed For Sex With Homeless Teen

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A Sydney court has sentenced a Salvation Army youth support worker from Nigeria, Friday Fredrick Jeremiah, to a minimum of six months in jail for having sex with a 17-year-old girl in his care at a homeless shelter.

Jeremiah, 35, pleaded guilty to the charge and was sentenced to nine months in jail with a non-parole period of six months.

The court heard that Jeremiah exploited the girl’s vulnerability and engaged in sexual activity with her in a nearby park.

“This caused the victim to feel uncomfortable and she did not say much.

“The therapeutic youth support worker later led the victim away from the shelter to a nearby park, grabbed her head and kissed her which she said also made her feel uncomfortable,” the court was told.

According to reports, Jeremiah thereafter led the teenage girl to a tree and pulled down her pants before engaging in sexual activity with her.

The court was also informed that Jeremiah returned to the shelter, telling the girl to wait 10 minutes before coming back, so as not to draw suspicion.

The girl then messaged a friend to narrate her ordeal with Jeremiah.

“Jeremiah continued to message her for months after the incident, even after she left the shelter for long-term accommodation.

“At one stage, he sent her a picture of his genitalia with the message: ‘Let the sleeping dog lay’ to which she did not respond.

The judge noted Jeremiah had a good work history and was an active volunteer at his church, he stated however that, “his good character was reduced to some extent because the offender relied on his good character to become a carer for vulnerable people such as the victim.”

He will be eligible for parole on December 3.

Sanwo-Olu rewards LASU’s Best Graduating Student with N10m

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Lagos State Governor, Babajide Sanwo-Olu, has rewarded the overall best student of the Lagos State University (LASU), Olaniyi Olawale, with N10 million.

The governor made this announcement at the university’s 27th Convocation and 40th Anniversary in Lagos on Thursday.

Yusuf, from the Department of Accounting Education, graduated with cumulative grade point average of 4.98 in the 2022–2023 academic session.

The Senior Special Assistant to the Governor on New Media, Jubril Gawat, made this known in a tweet on X on Thursday.

He wrote, “FLASH: Governor of Lagos State, Mr #jidesanwoolu has announced a token of N110m for the overall best graduating student of Lagos State University (#LASUOfficial), Olaniyi Mubaraq Olawale, Accounting Education, who graduated with a CGPA of 4.98.

“Mr Governor made this announcement today at the Lagos State University (LASU) Grand Finale of the 27th Convocation Ceremony.”

Media

Sanwo-Olu rewards LASU's Best Graduating Student with N10m

Lagos State Governor, Babajide Sanwo-Olu, has rewarded the overall best student of the Lagos State University (LASU), Olaniyi Olawale, with N10 million.

The governor made this announcement at the university’s 27th… pic.twitter.com/ZovwAWcFX0
— Vanguard Newspapers (@vanguardngrnews) June 6, 2024

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‘Obidient Movement Belongs To No Political Party’ — Peter Obi

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The presidential candidate of the Labour Party in the 2023 election, Mr. Peter Obi, has clarified that the Obidient Movement is a diverse and inclusive collective, distancing it from any particular political party.

Taking to his X page on Wednesday, Obi explained that while political parties may have youth mobilization directorates, the Obidient Movement transcends such structures.

In a series of tweet, he said “I like to categorically state that the Obidient Movement is not directorate of any particular political party. Any individual or individuals claiming to be leaders of this non-existent directorate are simply not members of the broader Obidient Movement.

“There may be a youth mobilization directorate in political parties but the Obidient movement is far beyond a particular political party. The Obidient Movement is a diverse and inclusive collective that transcends traditional political, religious, and ethnic affiliations.”

Obi highlighted the movement’s expansive and inclusive nature, saying, “It is not domiciled within any particular party or headquartered in any particular part of the country. Its membership spans across Africa and the globe, comprising individuals from various backgrounds, including rural communities, and public, private, and corporate entities.”

“united by a shared vision for a New and better Nigeria. Guided by the principles of adaptive and transformative change, progress, discipline, and democratic values, the Obidient Movement advocates for fairness, equity, inclusivity, and justice.”

The former Anambra State governor noted that the movement is committed to accountable governance and the realization of a better future for Nigeria, stressing that the movement rejects deceitful behaviours and strives for positive change through integrity, honesty, and accountability.

“It is committed to a strictly accountable and responsible code of government. Our members are committed to contributing to the realization of a better future for Nigeria through the New Nigeria project, anchored on loyalty, integrity, and democratic values.

“The Obidient Movement seeks to foster positive change through a commitment to integrity, honesty, and accountability, rejecting deceitful behaviours.

“We serve as a beacon of hope for a reimagined Nigeria, where leadership is grounded in character, capacity, competence, compassion and the well-being of all citizens,” he asserted.

Obi added, “Let this serve as a clarification that the Obidient Movement operates independently of any political party, and its membership is not limited to any particular affiliation.

“Our focus remains steadfast on driving positive change and promoting a New Nigeria for all. This is who we are and will remain for all time.”

Top 10 richest people in the world

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In 2024, the world’s richest people hold significant influence due to their groundbreaking ideas, investments, and guidance.

The top 10 richest people globally come from various fields like technology and luxury goods. They’ve contributed to space exploration, digital communication, e-commerce, and high-end fashion, shaping their industries profoundly while amassing immense wealth.

Below is a summary of their standings and net worths, per figures from Financial Express:

Net worth: $210 billion

Big time businessman and investor, CEO of Tesla , spaceX and also X previously known as Twitter, Elon Musk tops the list. His ventures have made significant impacts in the fields of space exploration, electric vehicles, and renewable energy. Musk’s forward-thinking approach has led to groundbreaking developments in technology and sustainability.

2. Bernard Arnault

Net worth: $202 billion

Bernard Arnault oversees a vast empire of luxury brands, including Louis Vuitton, Christian Dior, and Sephora. Under his leadership, LVMH has continued

3. Jeff Bezos

Net worth: $194 billion

Jeff Bezos, the founder of Amazon, has maintained his position among the world’s wealthiest through his significant shareholding in the company. He also owns Blue origin a private aerospace manufacturer, and The Washington Post.

4. Mark Zuckerberg

Net worth: $163 billion

Mark Zuckerberg is the co founder and CEO of Meta platforms (formerly Facebook). These platforms have grown since into one of the world largest social media companies. Meta also owns Instagram,Whatsapp, Messenger,Oculus VR,Threads.

5. Lari Ellison

Net worth: $146 billion

Larry Ellison co-founded Oracle Corporation and grew it into one of the largest software companies globally, specializing in database management systems.

6. Larry Page

Net worth: $142 billion

Larry Page is a cofounder of Google and now part of Alphabet. His wealth primarily comes from his 6% stake in Alphabet and various other investments.

7. Warren Buffet

Net worth: $137 billion

Warren Buffet known as the “Oracle of Omaha” leads Berkshire Hathaway. His stash features significant stakes in insurance, energy distribution, railroads, and consumer products. Buffett is also a standout do-gooder, donating billions towards different causes

8. Sergey Brin

Net worth: $136 billion

Sergey Brin is also a co-founder of Google. He was in on creating Google’s search engine alongside Larry Page. He was the tech boss at Google and later took on the same gig at Alphabet, Google’s parent company. His riches mainly flow from his 6% share in Alphabet and other investments.

9 .Bill Gates

Net worth: $129 billion

Bill Gates, the co-founder of Microsoft is a well-known philanthropist and business magnate. He played a significant role in the personal computer revolution, shaping the technology industry as we know it today. Through his foundation, the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation, he has made substantial contributions to global health, education, and poverty alleviation efforts. His riches consist of a 1.4% share in Microsoft and different investments via his private company, Cascade Investment.

10. Steve Ballmer

Net worth: $123 billion

Steve Ballmer was the CEO of Microsoft after Bill Gates. During his time as CEO of Microsoft, Ballmer shaped the company’s directions and strategies. Currently, Ballmer owns the Los Angeles Clippers NBA team. His riches consist of a 4% share in Microsoft, the Clippers, and other assets such as The Forum and Intuit Dome.

Nigeria, we Hail Thee: Ozekhome applauds return to old National Anthem

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Human rights lawyer Mike Ozekhome has applauded President Bola Tinubu’s government for the reintroduction of the old national anthem, Nigeria, we Hail Thee.

Ozekhome spoke in an interview with Channels Television’s Sunrise Daily on Thursday.

He said, “I am not a fantastic fan of the government but if there is one thing I think they have gone right; they have gotten right, and I applaud them for it, it is the reintroduction of this national anthem.”

The return to the old national anthem came after the National Assembly passed the National Anthem Bill 2024 which was later signed by President Tinubu.

While the development triggered a backlash from Nigerians who questioned the importance of the reversal, Ozekhome noted that the reintroduction of the old national anthem “will cement us together”.

Ozekhome said, “I know that it was advertised that there would be a public hearing over the national anthem.

“That was how I heard. Nobody came to invite me specially and if you’re called, you should go and participate. If you don’t participate, you should not cry later.”

He said, unlike a change of constitution, having a new national anthem does not require town hall meetings at the lowest levels.

Ozekhome lamented the lack of patriotism among some Nigerians and hopes the new anthem will reinstate that in Nigerians.

According to him, the reintroduction of the anthem was part of the recommendations of the 2014 National Confab.

Ozekhome’s comment came days after Tinubu defended the reintroduction of the anthem which the President described as his “priority”.

“Let me allude to something that happened yesterday. The change of national anthem, ‘Nigeria, we hail thee’,” President Tinubu said during a meeting with the leadership of the Arewa Consultative Forum (ACF) at the Presidential Villa in Abuja last Thursday.

“Some people say, okay… say what? Is that your priority? It’s my priority. I agree with the National Assembly. If they make law, I’ve got to obey that law, or we disagree openly and close the chapter.”

Rihanna made me realise how successful I am – Tems

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Grammy-winning Nigerian singer, Temilade Openiyi, aka Tems, has revealed that a DM from billionaire pop star, Rihanna, made her realise how successful she has become.

She disclosed this while speaking with popular YouTuber, Korty EO.

The host asked: “At what point did you realise that you’ve become successful?”

Tems replied: “I knew I’d blown and gone far when I got a DM from Rihanna.”

Tems co-wrote Rihanna’s Black Panther2 soundtrack, ‘Lift Me Up’ last year.

Earlier this year, Rihanna expressed a desire to collaborate with Tems and Ayra Starr on a song.