Jonathan Lauds Nigerian Creative Industry

President Goodluck Jonathan on Friday night lauded the achievements of the Nigerian creative industry for being good ambassadors of the country.
Jonathan, represented by Minister of Culture, Tourism and National Orientation, Chief Edem Duke, made the commendation in Lagos at “Evening of Celebration of the Creative Industry in Nigeria.’’
The News Agency of Nigeria reports that Jonathan, who had arrived Lagos for the event, had to leave due to the bomb blasts in Kano Central Mosque.
He said the challenge of insurgency breaks his heart but pointed out that terrorism and insurgency will never break the country or its citizens.
“The nation is more important than any individual and the spirit that has welded the country for the past 100 years will continue to hold us together.
“We must stand against insurgency and move the nation forward’’, he said.
The president said the creative industry had continued to win hearts and fans for Nigeria across the world.
“We have broken the boundaries of geography and our movies have moved us into the homes of people all over the world.
“You have taken the collateral of our country and weaved it into beautiful epics and the country is very proud of you.
“Our musicians have redefined music all over the world, same with our fashion designers who are recognised and respected by some of the best in the world.
“Our writings are also being taught in schools all over the world and have been translated into numerous languages’’, he said.
The Minister of Finance and Coordinating Minister of the Economy, Dr Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala, said the creative industry had enriched the lives of Nigerians.
She said the industry contributes 1.4 per cent of the country’s GDP (about N1.2 trillion) and 200,000 jobs directly and one million jobs indirectly.
“Government has thus thrown its weight behind the industry.’’
She said 28 per cent of YouWin grants which is about N8.17 billion had gone the way of the creative industry and that 5,456 jobs had been created as a result of this.
She said Project Act Nollywood, a N3billion grant programme which was launched last year would now be extended to the other creative sub sectors.
“Also, 205 individuals have benefited and 132 million naira have so far been disbursed from the N3billion.
“Seven private film institutions have received N108.5 million to train manpower in the industry.’’
Okonjo-Iweala said Federal Government was identifying worthy films to co-produce and so far there had been 26 beneficiaries who have received N215 million for film projects

Another batch of beneficiaries, she added, was being processed and would be ready in the next two weeks and that 80 films will be involved.
She said a lot of work was being done to protect the copyrights of the creative industry.
She urged stakeholders to work with the government which has shown so much faith in them and promised not to disappoint them.

NAN reports that the event had the cream of the Nigerian creative industry in attendance.
They included actors, musicians, comedians, writers, artists and photographers.
Prof. Bruce Onobrakpeya called on the government to establish a National Endowment Fund for arts, build some infrastructure and a national gallery to showcase modern arts.

The president of the Association of Nigerian Authors (ANAN), Prof. Remi Raji, urged the president to support Nigerian writers more as they were a very important member of the creative community.

A photographer, Mr George Osodi, called for more effective copyright laws and stronger sanction against defaulters.
There were musical performances by King Sunny Ade, Segun Arinze, Osita Iheme and Chinedu Ikedieze, a.k.a. Aki and Paw Paw, Kate Henshaw, Rita Dominic, Waje, Omawumi and Ben Ogbeiwi.

Other performers were Asa, Sani Danja, Timi Dakolo, Lara George, Mo Eazy, Cobhams Asuquo, Sunny Nneji, DNMT (Dance Na the Main Thing), Akpororo and Onyeka Onwenu. (NAN)

How well did the NPFL stars do in 2014?

• Mfon Udoh scored 26 goals in total as Enyimba won the Federation Cup

It was an unforgettable year in Nigeria’s domestic league as 2014 produced a handful of talents who shone brightly for their various clubs and, in some cases, for their country

By Samuel Ahmadu

2014 will arguably be termed the best season of all in the history of the Nigeria Professional Football League. It was tough but thrilling to pick out few of those many exceptional faces who, at various stages of the NPFL season, were a delight to watch.

The country’s impressive campaign at the 2014 African Nations Championship in South Africa also helped showcase a few promising talents and unearthed stars that abound in the domestic league.

Despite not winning the tournament, the featured NPFL players gave a good account of themselves at the competition organised for players based in Africa.

The best of the country’s domestic football was beheld by the world with a Nigerian overwhelmingly voted the Best Player of the Tournament despite a third-place finish.

No argument, huge credit goes to the league organisers – the League Management Company – that created a level playing ground which made many players realise their potential.

Several players came out with robust performances to help their team win trophies, survive the drop and earn continental tickets.

Ejike Uzoenyi was one of the leading NPFL stars to have headlined the calendar year under review with his immaculate display, earning him the Best Player award at CHAN 2014. The former Enugu Rangers man, before he signed for South African club Mamelodi Sundowns, will be remembered for doing the country proud and making the shortlist for the Caf African-based Player of the Year award.

Uzoenyi | Shone brightly at the CHAN as part of a domestic-based side

The key stand-outs in 2014 were Dolphins’ Emem Eduok and Enyimba’s Mfon Udoh. Though both hit the ground running in the second half of the season, their superiority overshadowed many others that made their presence count last season.

Both former-Akwa United stars netted 20 goals with two games to go and equalled the all-time record set in 2010/2011. Udoh eventually emerged as the league’s top scorer with a record 23 goals including six braces and 26 in all competitions for Enyimba. The 22-year-old star also found the net as Enyimba retained their Federation Cup title with a 2-1 win over Dolphins and managed a total of 41 goals in his two consecutive professional league seasons.

Edouk scored a total of 25 goals including six in Dolphins’ game against Nembe City, four in the Federation Cup, and 20 in league. The 20-year-old grabbed the valuable winner for Nigeria on his senior international debut against Ghana’s Olympic side in a friendly game to launch the Uyo ‘Nest of Champions’ stadium.

Other players who distinguished themselves were Warri Wolves’ forward Gbolahan Salami, who aided theSeasiders to clinch a Caf Confederation Cup ticket and also shone at the CHAN tournament with Stephen Keshi’s men. He also became a key part of the main Super Eagles squad where he scored in the 3-2 defeat to Congo in Calabar in September.

Eduok | Had a break out year with Dolphins where he scored 25 goals in all competitions

Ighodaro Osaguona also lit up the season with his impressive 16 goals for Enugu Rangers while sealing a senior national team place under Keshi.

Workaholic Kano Pillars midfielder, Rabiu Ali, who equally starred at CHAN and made the competition’s best XI also comes into focus. Popularly called ‘Pele’, he contributed 13 goals as Sai Masu Gida retained the league title for the third time in a row.

Enyimba’s captain Chinedu Udoji, still without a national team call-up, but his outstanding leadership and consistent role in the heart of the Aba Millionaires’ defence in two seasons cannot go unnoticed. He has led the People’s Elephant close to winning the title twice as well as winning the Federation Cup title back-to-back.

Also on the list is inspirational goalkeeping duo of Kano Pillars’ Theophilus Afelokhai and Giwa FC’s Ojo Olorunleke, both showed class in goal, keeping their various teams high up from start to finish.

While Afelokhai played a part in the holders’ title retaining run, Olorunleke helped his newly-promoted side finish in fourth place thereby earning himself a call-up to the U-20 national team.

Another is Bayelsa United’s Peter Ebimobowei, who finished as the third-highest scorer with 18 goals and helped the Restoration Boys narrowly escape relegation to the second tier.

Others deserving a mention are Adamu Hassan, whose goals in the second stanza kept Kano Pillars top, while Kingsley Sokari was another star that shone brightly in the colours of Enyimba and got rewarded with a Super Eagles’ call-up.

Rabiu Ali | Took Pillars to a third-straight title after impressive performances at the CHAN

As the list goes on and on, let’s check on players that did well with the newly-promoted teams. TalentedIbrahim Shuiabu made his mark netting 14 goals for the ambitious newcomers Giwa FC.

It was a similary story for young sensation Peter Onyekachi, whose 11 goals came close to securing a Caf continental ticket for debutants Abia Warriors. While Saviour Fidelis managed ten, ensuring FC Taraba stay in the topflight.

After many decades, the domestic league is beginning to see signs of improvement and a pool of talent aside those already known are springing up aplenty thanks to the quality of organisation.

The large portion of football admirers in the country will desire an improved standard next season and more talents could competitively challenge for the Nigeria Player of the Year in 2015.

However, one sore issue remains, the rate at which players run away to foreign leagues after one season of being in the spotlight must be checked by improving the conditions at their clubs. The Nigerian league will continue to lose its best legs if players have to fast and pray, and sometimes do vigils in front of government houses, before their salaries are paid.

While the LMC board has made some achievements so far, a lot still needs to be carried out in order for the league to retain its best legs and for Nigerian football to grow.

GOAL

You lied, we cheered Jonathan, we never booed him and Governor Fayose, OAU Students’ Union President Tells Sahara Reporters, The Nation, others

Revolutionary greetings to all and sundry in the South West Zone, Osun state, Ife community and the generality of Great Ife Students on the host of the President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, Dr Goodluck Ebele Jonathan, GCFR for a special meeting with the Council of Obas in South West.

The leadership of the Students’ Union is appreciative of the listening character of the President as well as the efforts of individuals who facilitated the meeting with the President. It is imperative at this point to relay the product of the discussion with the President. The Speaker of the SRC addressed the President and submitted the protest letter which he personally received and gave assurances that the major issue in the letter – increment in fees is going to be addressed holistically in no long time as there are other schools that are affected.

He committed himself to address welfare issues that affect OAU specifically. Although some self-centered and politically-sponsored individuals attempted to unleash their demonic resolutions to deter and dissuade the union leaders from making pressing demands that will enhance the welfare of Great Ife students on campus, to make necessary demands for the reversal of fees and the reinstatement of some of our suspended students from the President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, Goodluck Ebele Jonathan. On his way out, the president stepped out to the cheers of the students, receiving a lot of applause from the entirety of Great Ife students and commuters having heard that he had committed himself on the increment.

Meanwhile, just as the Union President conveyed to His Excellency, we again implore the president to stick to his promise, as a man of honour and integrity, as Great Ife students are in great anticipation and expectancy. The cheers you received today at the time you were leaving were premised on the fact that we believed you will address the increment immediately. Mr President, the reversal of increased fees should also be extended to all Federal Universities and pump funds into education in the interest of the country.

However, we condemn the attitude of some individuals who portrayed themselves as elements of frustration and cheap political tools.

Through this medium, we warn them to stay away from OAU campus as they are not unknown to the leadership of the union. We maintain our ground as Intellectual Fighters for Emancipation and not as uncoordinated confusionists and anarchists.

The leadership of the Union is very much undistracted in the maximization of this opportunity to solve the myriad of problems confronting Great IFE students. We also remain committed to the execution of our proposed projects and the completion of ongoing ones – Angola and Mozambique hall water projects, Great IFE app, Union website, and buses for campus shuttle, union hostel, among others.

La Lucha Sigue…

SIGNED:

IBIKUNLE ISAAC M.

President

BAMIDELE OLUDARE J.

P.R.O

Umana, 28,000 PDP Members in Akwa Ibom Decamp to APC

Obong Umana Okon Umana

Okon Bassey

The former Secretary to the Akwa Ibom State Government (SSG), Obong Umana Okon Umana, caused a stir in Akwa Ibom State on Friday as he led over 28, 000 leaders and supporters of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) to decamp to the All Progressives Congress (APC).

Umana, who was a frontline governorship aspirant in the PDP, was received by the leader and National Working Committee of the APC at a rally held at the ancestral ground of the Ibibios, the Asan Ibibio.

The National leader of the APC, Senator Bola Ahmed Tinubu, National Chairman, Chief John Odigie Oyegun, The National Chairman of the Party, South South, Prince Hilliard Etta, Governors of Rivers and Kano states and all the Presidential aspirants of the APC except Mohammudu Buhari were present to receive the PDP decampees.

At a colourful ceremony, Obong Umana and his supporters were presented with bundle of brooms to effect change in Akwa Ibom State and charged, “You must use the broom fearless and effectively to sweep those that destroy the Nigeria nation”.

While welcoming the decampees, the National Chairman of the APC said the position of the party was to create a new Nigeria and accordingly asked members of the party to get their voter cards as it was the channel for change in the country.

APC, he said, had a zero tolerance for corruption, pointing out that one of the problems of ruling party was corruption which had destroyed everything in the country under the watch of the PDP administration.

He said the priority of the party was to provide youths in the country with jobs, provide effective security in the country.

“We have worked out in paper the number of jobs we are going to provide for our youth when we come to power.

“APC knows those who are abusing security in the country. We will take care of the need of our security, making sure they are satisfied, making sure they are committed to the security of the country”, he said.

Also speaking, the National Leader of the party said the change the party was yearning for was to change PDP administration under President Goodluck Jonathan saying APC was coming with a programme to put the country in the path of growth.

The State Chairman of the party, Dr. Amadu Attai said the gathering was the strongest movement in Akwa Ibom State that was going to effect the party had been looking for.

He pledged to create a level playing field for members of the party in the state saying the party has been positioned to win the 2015 general election in the state.
He assured the decampees of fairness and equity in running the party pointing out Akwa Ibom state had decided to move from darkness to light.

On his part, Obong Umana said with the number of people that had declared for APC, the party had become the biggest party in Akwa Ibom State.

He said it was historic day for him and his supporter “We decide to embrace APC because we see it as a political party to bring change for our people and the people have decided to take their destiny in their hands”.

“We have decided to move out from PDP because PDP is not a democratic party. How can a party excluded certain senatorial district from participation in political process. I paid for my nomination and expression of interest form a total sum of N11 million.

“When I paid the money and it was received, it was not stated in the guideline that I will be excluded. When they ensure the money was in the bank and 24 hours to the ward congress, it was said the good peopled of Uyo senatorial district and largest is excluded.

“The party that is called PDP is very undemocratic. I will like to appeal to PDP to please refund my money. It is not right that Akwa Ibom state and Ibibios in particularly should be singled out by PDP from the governorship race.

Umana who declared intention to contest for the governorship race under the APC ticket assured that he would work with others stakeholders to bring the expected change in the state.

THISDAY

Loss of Position of Speaker by S’West Haunts Me – President Jonathan

President Goodluck Jonathan yesterday expressed regret over the failure of the South-west to get the position of Speaker of the House of Representatives in accordance with the zoning arrangement of the ruling Peoples Democratic Party, adding that it had continued to be a thorn on his conscience.

Jonathan expressed this regret while speaking at the Yoruba Unity Summit held at the Obafemi Awolowo University, Ile Ife, Osun State.
During the summit organised by the Yoruba Unity Forum, the President also attributed the failure of the zone to get the post to individual interests of some politicians in the region.

He stressed the need for equity in appointments in accordance with the zoning formula of the PDP.
Said the President: “I always say it; one of the problems I faced in the National Assembly was that I felt the right thing should be done because our party has a formula. We have six geo-political zones in the country and when the president emerges from one of the geo-political zones, the vice president emerges from another geo-political zone, the rest core offices – the senate president, the speaker, Secretary to the Government of the Federation and the chairman of the party – must come from different geo-political zones.
“The idea is that, whenever we are distributing board positions and some of these appointments, these people sit to take decisions. Whenever we are appointing ministers, all these people sit to take decisions. In that case, we want all the geo-political zones to be in the inner caucus that take critical decisions.

“The last time, it was difficult for me because I insisted that the South-west must get the office of speaker. Of course, I couldn’t go through with it because some of us within the South-west didn’t want it based on some personal reasons. I am still suffering from that till today. That is one of the reasons that the leaders said, this time around, we must work collectively so that whatever position is zoned to the South-west, we should get that position.”

The President restated his undying conviction on the unity of the country and expressed appreciation on the efforts of the Yoruba people and their cooperation with other sections of the country which sustained unity.
He pledged that his government would continue to do more for the South-west.
According to him, over 50 per cent of the nation’s wealth is from the South-west, pointing out that infrastructure such as airports, rail link and power must be provided to enable the area to continue to provide opportunities for the people.
Jonathan said the summit was an opportunity for him to salute the collective spirit of the Yoruba people that has seen them play critical roles at every important junction in the history of our country.

“I have said it and I will say it again. We will implement the recommendations. The political environment now is not too conducive for certain good things to be raised because of partisan interest. People are ready to even kill. I wouldn’t want to play with that document that our great men and women, our egg heads took time to form. I believe the whole context will be taken by government. So, we will surely implement it,” he said.
He observed that the gathering was “not just about the unity of the descendants of Oduduwa but a clarion call on Nigerians to embark on a path to seek accommodation and build consensus.”
The President charged all to be in harmony, articulate differences with a view to arriving at formidable national consensus to give the nation a more robust vision and energy to confront the rest of the world.
He said with love, understanding and respect for one another, there is no obstacle Nigeria would not surmount, adding, “with unity, we can go to the moon.”
The President assured the South-west that the federal government would never leave the region behind in development and called for their cooperation.

THISDAY

7 Things That Help Us Move On and Win the Race

Modern life is a global competition where only stout hearts can survive and overcome various life barriers. Many people are so blind to see and understand obvious things. They treat difficulties as an irretrievable disaster and lack either energy or bravery to fight. Meanwhile, wise and successful personalities use the power of positive thinking. This type of thinking opens up new perspectives and helps them make a step into uncertainty regardless of their fears, tears and anxiety. But what is the secret? I think that everything depends on motivation. Only motivation can win the power of laziness and diffidence. It makes us do something and controls our behaviors. It also helps us realize that both profitable and unprofitable things and actions can lead to a positive result.

No matter how you slice it, I’ve understood that the carrot and the stick approach is the best motivator, because many of us tend to put out work off until it gets too hot for us. Many of my friends still complain about life injustice and blame the others for everything bad that happened in their lives. They cannot understand that failures and unpleasant moments are just lessons that teach them to be better. I want to draw your attention to generally known things that stimulate us to move on and struggle for happiness. When you accept them, you’ll notice that those who never give up are the strongest people in the world.

1. Criticism
Criticism is the worst enemy of many women. I don’t know why, but at least, they think so. From time to time, our actions, behaviors and words come under criticism. It can exert either positive or negative influence on our lives. Everything depends on the ability to respond to criticism. If you treat it like an advice or a little remark, then you have all chances to improve yourself and increase the success rate. Those who exaggerate remarks, lack confidence and take things to heart can plunge into a long-term depression.

Psychologists say that criticism should be accepted in an adequate way. Then you’ll be able to make a good thing of it. Just ask yourself a question, “What can I learn from it?” If you feel that the remark is absolutely ungrounded, then forget about it. By all means, try to suppress the thought that you’re good-for-nothing and the whole world wants to humble you. If you’re ready for self-improvement, then try to turn your weaknesses into strong points. Criticism will give you a stimulus.

2. Money
Money is a powerful thing that makes humanity be on all cylinders. Constant demand for money doesn’t let you relax completely, and give yourself in charge of laziness. I know that money doesn’t bring happiness and it shouldn’t be the main priority, but it provides certain financial independence. You’ll be able to buy all necessary things for your dearest and nearest. You either earn money to survive or you lose everything. That’s the life. The main point is not to lose control in the pursuit of money. Those who earn lots of money can become too selfish and heartless. Money is a good motivator for me. I just work hard, but try not to treat it as something sacred. Money is just a tool to reach my goals and satisfy my needs.

3. Health problems
Human body is a smart system. It operates thousands of interrelated processes automatically. In case of various disorders it sends signals such as pain or anxiety. When we feel bad, we forget about everything and begin to move and take actions in order to understand what’s happened. It’s so difficult to change or get rid of bad habits. Electronic technologies make us lazy bones, but diseases motivate us to move more.

I know that pain is much stronger than the feeling of laziness. Not long ago, I’ve experienced it firsthand. I’m an office worker and my job makes a lot of trouble for me, especially for my back. The doctor prescribed me a regular physical activity. Unfortunately, my busy schedule didn’t allow me to do physical exercises on a regular basis. A terrific pain in my back was the only thing that made me find time and follow the doctor’s prescriptions. Now I realize that pain is not just a negative physical reaction. It makes people more productive and determined in their actions.

4. Love
Love is a great feeling and a powerful prime mover. People inspired by love usually behave like energizers. They see no barriers in their actions and I think that it’s wonderful. When you’re flying on the wings of love you aren’t afraid of moving on in different directions, because you believe that you’re incredibly strong. The only thing you may fear is to go down a great deal in the eyes of the people you love. As usual, when you love, you take direct responsibility for your family and for your loved one. Furthermore, you don’t find it difficult to express your emotions, make pleasant surprises and make your loved one happy for a while. No matter what others say, I know that love is a sacred feeling that helps the whole world forget about fears and do crazy things for the sake of something good.

5. Faith
Faith is an essential part of the winner’s spirit. Those people who believe either in something wonderful or in their own abilities are more resistant to psychological crises. Faith instills confidence and doesn’t let people become disheartened in case of life problems. Faith and self-confidence have much in common. They both help people overcome negative thoughts and the fear of uncertainty. Those who’re free of negativity and prejudices are doomed to success and victory. Psychologists advise people to believe in their victory. As a result, they’ll be able to achieve it in a quite short period of time. This is the first step on your way to success.

6. Rivalry
Whenever one looks in this world, one sees rivalry in every sphere of life. It doesn’t matter whether it’s work, sports or something else. When we were little, our teachers and parents taught us to work hard and try to be the best in everything. Adult life requires even more efforts to succeed in something, because there’re so many rivalries around. It often happens that the rival’s success makes weak and wicked people envy.

Instead of looking for new and more effective ways to improve yourself or your business, you yearn to take your rivals by the throat. What for? You’d better turn your energy into the creation of something new, useful and interesting. Every person has the right to develop and express themselves the way they like. Healthy rivalry can help people open up their hidden potential and win.

7. Strength of the spirit
Life is not a bed of roses. Every single day we face both positive and negative moments. We get used to good things very quickly, but many stressing events and worrying news are beyond our comprehension. Living in a constant stress is a very challenging task. The body and mind sometimes cannot bear the tension and become exhausted. In such a case, the best idea is to rely on the strength of your spirit. Don’t believe those people who tell you that the strength of the mind is an inherent human quality. I’m sure that every person can develop the firmness of the character. Various life experiences can radically change everyone. Strong people have no fear to deal with disappointments and troubles in the pursuit of their goals.

The basic rule of life is to move in spite of anything. You should always remember that the sleeping fox catches no chickens. We have everything necessary for development and successful cooperation with the world. You should always keep in mind these effective motivators that make you more active and perspective. But don’t think that your success and prosperity depend only on these seven points. Your desire is the only significant thing that can urge you to live and always be on the move. Do you know any other things that make us win and stay active? Share your experiences with us, please!

9 Best Google Tricks to Try

Many people believe that Google is just a popular search engine that helps them find a useful and necessary information. However, there are a few tricks you may want to try and to use every time you need to find something important. These tricks can make your search easier and you will find what you need faster. Change the way you use Google with these simple tips:

1. University researches
Whether you are a student or a writer, this Google trick is a must-try. I’m a huge fan of learning something new each day and when I want to find something true and useful, I just type ‘site:edu’ first and then what I need to find. This option helps limit the number of educational institutions. Sometimes I also type ‘site:edu intitle’ and then what I need to find. For instance, type ‘harvard:edu diet’ to find the best results from Harvard University.

2. Use double quotation marks
Looking for something specific? Try using double quotation marks. I often look for song lyrics (I’m sure I’m not alone) and this Google trick makes my search a bit easier and faster. I put double quotation marks around my search and Google finds me everything containing all words I typed in. I also use double quotation marks to find quotes. This one of the most useful Google tricks you can use daily.

3. Specific websites
When you need to find some information on a specific website, use this sneaky Google trick. Just type in the word ‘site,’ a colon, the website and the key words of the information you are looking for. For instance, if you want to find something about healthy lifestyle here on Womanitely, type ‘site:womanitely.com healthy lifestyle’, and enjoy reading!

Read also – 10 Fun Apps That Will Make You Smarter

4. The power of asterisk
I’ve been looking for this Google trick for months since I have trouble remembering lyrics of the songs. If you like a song but you don’t remember all of the words, try using asterisks as place fillers. For instance, type in ‘all I want*life*good time,’ and you will find that it’s Three Days of Grace The Good Life! You can use the power of asterisk with quotes or anything you want to find too.

5. The power of tilde
Usually, we don’t use the tilde key and many people think that this key is unnecessary. However, it’s actually useful! If you search something important and you want Google to show you results with its synonyms, type in a tilde before a word. For instance, if you’re looking for Spanish salads only, type in ‘spanish~salads’ to find Spanish salad recipes and omit other recipes you don’t need.

6. Dots
Use this trick when looking for dates, statistics, or measurements, add two dots to your search between two numbers, and Google will show you the information you need. For instance, if you’re looking for some important historic facts of 50s, type in ‘historic facts 1950..1959,’ and hopefully it will help you to find what you’re looking for.

7. New websites
If you want to find a few new websites related to your favorite ones, you don’t have to spend hours searching for them. Just specify your favorite website in your search, add the word ‘related’ and a colon and see the results. For instance, if you are looking for the website related to Amazon, type in ‘related:amazon.com.’ Sure, you won’t use this Google trick daily, but it’s worth remembering.

8. The power of hyphen
If you Google something regularly, you know how it’s hard to find what you need when you have two meanings. To make your search easier and quicker, type in a hyphen between those two meanings. This will help you to avoid unnecessary information and get what you’re searching for.

9. Do a barrel roll
While this Google trick won’t help you in your searching, it’s still interesting to try. Have you ever tried to type in ‘do a barrel roll’? Give it a try! Google will do a 360-degree spin. I think there’s no point in describing this trick, just try it and see what you think.

Whether you work or study, these Google tricks can come in handy. Learn to use them and enjoy a quick and easy search every time you need to find some specific information. Have you ever heard of any of these Google tricks? Did you know any other tricks? Let me know!

WOMANITELY

Okonjo-Iweala: FG to Review Duty Waivers, Others to Shield Economy from External Shocks

• Says we will protect the interest of the common man
• IMF lauds fiscal, monetary measures
Eromosele Abiodun and James Emejo in Abuja

As part of the measures to help Nigeria navigate the current revenue shortfall arising from declining oil prices and save the country from future shocks, the Coordinating Minister for the Economy and Minister of Finance, Dr. Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala, has said the finance ministry and the economic management team are working on several scenarios, which include reviewing the nation’s policies on investment incentives, and waivers and exemptions to stem the tide of abuses.

The finance minister made this know on Thursday in her keynote speech at the Securities and Exchange Commission’s (SEC) 4th Annual Capital Market Committee Retreat holding in Abuja.

Other measures she disclosed include reducing oil price expectations; increasing the nation’s non-oil revenue as a percentage of gross domestic product (GDP) to $3 billion in three years; cutting certain recurrent spending such as the purchase of administrative equipment, overseas travel and training; and implementing some cuts in capital expenditure in the 2015 budget.

As part of the renewed focus on increasing tax revenues to mitigate the impact of the fall in oil prices, she said the Federal Inland Revenue Service (FIRS), working with Mckinsey, has been mandated to increase its target, adding that the agency has already made progress in reaching the target of N75 billion, over and above the regular collection target.

She stated that her first measure was to make up her mind that panic would not solve the problem, stressing that no nation manages economic crisis successfully with panic.

According to her, “Panic is not a strategy. We are managing the situation to keep the economy on a stable sustainable course and we will not listen to those who want us to throw up our hands in despair and give up.

“Our scenario-based approach to managing the impact of the oil price drop is proactive and comprehensive. Even if the price drops to 60 dollars we are ready.

“As a central part of our strategy, we have revised our oil price expectations over the short to medium-term. We have lowered our benchmark oil price assumption to $73 per barrel after some careful analysis of the possible future direction of oil prices as well as the soft floor price for shale oil, which is estimated at about $75 per barrel.

“But let me clearly state that we are not taking a point-estimate position as regards the future price of oil. We fully recognise that oil prices may fall lower or even rebound.”

Prices, she added, could fall to $70 a barrel, $65 or even $60, adding that prices could also rebound to $75 to $85 a barrel.

“What we did was to work within a range of $60 to $85 thought possible by analysts, put a package of measures around an estimate at the mid-point of that range, that is $73, and then built additional measures for scenarios at $70, $65 and $60 a barrel.

“The best way to manage uncertainty is to take a scenario-based approach to be ready for alternatives that may occur. This is what we have done, so panic is not a strategy.

“What is necessary is a systematic and focused approach. This is what we have. Our fiscal measures comprise both revenue and expenditure effort,” she explained.

On the revenue side, she said a lot of work was already underway prior to the fall in price to improve non-oil revenue generation.

“This was sequel to our rebasing exercise which demonstrated a large $510 billion GDP with a diverse non-oil base. The efforts of the FIRS supported by McKinsey & Co is focused on strengthening tax administration and thereby plugging leakages and loopholes.

“For example, only 25 per cent of our SMEs are registered taxpayers. Remedying that will broaden the tax base. Our auditors complete three to five audits a year compared to 50 a year in Angola.

“Speeding up audits will help improve tax collections and anomalies. Correcting for these loopholes is on target to bring in an estimated N75 billion above the 2014 FIRS revenue target.

“We believe that given the impressive performance and the now visible larger economic base, FIRS can do a lot more. Consequently, we have raised the 2015 budget threshold to N160 billion above the 2014 target,” the minister said.

She added that the cuts in capital expenditure in the 2015 budget will be done in a way that they are pro-poor and pro-average Nigerian.

She said: “Focus will be on priority sectors of infrastructure, health, education and security, as well as growth stimulating and job creating sectors like agriculture, housing and creative industries.

“The common man is a priority in our strategy for the fall in oil price. His interests are a priority. That is why even in implementing cuts in the capital budget for 2015, the areas that are of most benefit to the common man, critical infrastructure projects like the Lagos-Ibadan Expressway, the Second River Niger Bridge, rail and power projects, etc, which will create jobs and enhance the comfort of our people will go on.

“This pro-common man focus can also be seen in the safety nets, which is a major priority for the president. The projection is for two to three million families across Nigeria to benefit from a conditional cash transfer scheme to encourage school attendance, improve health and nutrition, reduce infant and maternal mortality, etc.

“Anything that affects the poor, the young and vulnerable, we will prioritise it,” the minister said.

Meanwhile, the International Monetary Fund (IMF) has praised the measures introduced by the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) to cushion the effects of fall in oil price on the country’s economy, describing it as a move in the right direction, Daily Post reported on Thursday.

“In a combination of actions, most recently the communiqué after the Central Bank of Nigeria’s monetary policy committee meeting of November 24-25, the authorities have announced a set of policies aimed at mitigating the impact of the recent significant fall in global oil prices on the economy,” says the IMF chief mission for Nigeria, Gene Leon.

“These include: adjusting the exchange rate, resubmitting the medium term expenditure framework to the National Assembly with proposed tax and expenditure measures to achieve the deficit target consistent with a lower budget oil price, and tightening monetary policy.

“We are supportive of and welcome these actions, which we view as complementary and moving in the right direction.

“Of course, the global situation remains fluid and the key issue is being ready to manage downside risks and for the authorities to be prepared, based on assessments of credible scenarios, to consider additional measures, as necessary,” he pointed out.

THISDAY

Panic In Bayelsa As Dickson Announces Plan To Sack Political Appointees

Governor Seriake Dickson said though the down sizing of political office holders will not affect the state civil servants, the over N500million used for the payment of salaries and allowances of political office holders may be too much to bear if the poor financial state of the state persists.

Hon. Seriake Dickson, who gave the hint yesterday in Yenagoa during the Monthly Transparency Briefing, said the dwindling financial fortunes of the state, occasioned by the shortfall in revenue accruing from the federal allocation, underscored the need for the people to be prudent in their expenditures.

Dickson, who called for prayers for the state’s financial fortunes to improve, said the state government spends an average of N500million monthly on salaries of political appointees.

Dickson warned that he may be forced to downsize the number of appointees in line with the prevailing economic situation in the wake of the sharp drop in the state allocation from the federation account.

“If things go the way it is, government may be downsized. Instead of political appointees we cannot pay we have to downsize,” the governor said.

He however assured the state civil servants, whose salaries have been constantly paid in spite of the state’s dwindling financial fortunes of his administration’s continued support. He however promised to complete all ongoing projects in the state.

While thanking the people for their cooperation, he also called on the political class, particularly those vying for various elective offices to exhibit the highest sense of discipline and civility.

LEADERSHIP

Obasanjo’s Corruption Allegation Is Unfortunate – Senate

The Nigerian Senate has described allegations of corruption levelled against the National Assembly by former President, Olusegun Obasanjo, as unfortunate and a deliberate attempt to denigrate the institution.

In a statement by the Senate’s spokesman, Senator Enyinnaya Abaribe, the Senate said it was unfortunate that the former President would distort the issue of constituency projects as meaning a direct monetary advance to lawmakers, thus amounting to the promotion of corruption by the National Assembly.

The Senate spokesman said: “The allegation, as spurious as it were, is very distant from the truth and is nowhere near reality”.

He further emphasised that if it were so, the former President would not have tolerated such for the period he was the President of the country.

Senator Abaribe also stated that President Obasanjo, for the avoidance of doubt, was the initiator of the constituency project in year 2000 as a means of ensuring that projects were fairly spread across the country using the Senatorial zones as the springboard.

He stated that it was curious and surprising that President Obasanjo would turn around, after over ten years of initiating such a project, to allege that the National Assembly was performing the function of both the executive and the parliament.

The Senate further asked the former President to go a step further to furnish Nigerians with details of how the National Assembly members became executors of national budget rather than being lawmakers.

CHANNELSTV