Olamild Ent

Last weekend, Nigeria’s biggest music reality show Nigerian Idol gave audiences and fans the times of their lives as they presented the wild card show that determines the last set of three finalists to make it into the finals of the show. Joining the judges table last weekend was none other than Nigeria’s first lady of rap Sasha P. The show presented nine contestants handpicked by the judges from the top 30 contestants to take another chance at the Nigerian Idol finals.

“I have never had this much fun in Nigerian Idol, international choreographer and judge Jeffrey Daniel exclaimed excitedly. “The talent is so good; it appears as if I am watching the top nine stages of the show and not the wildcard. Really, Nigeria has an incredible amount of talent and Nigerian Idol appears to have collected the cream of them all!”

The electrifying show kicked off with a performance by Tega who reprised her role as a woman afraid to lose her man as she sang Mary J Blige’s ‘Be without you’. Ebbi Paul Otti who once again showed his vocal de
xterity with a brilliant rendition of KC &Jojo’s ‘All my life’ followed her. The charming Byno upped his last performance with an irresistible mix of vocals and drama as he sang Bruno Mars hit ‘The way you are’. After him, G Circuit gave the performance of his life with an outstanding performance of Usher’s ‘There goes my baby’. The booming Joe Blue was next and he outdid his last try with a superbly mastered presentation of Michael Bolton’s ‘How am I supposed to live without you’. For Phunky Sings with Vanessa Williams ‘Save the best for last’, Jeffrey Daniel renamed her ‘Phunky Smooth’ for the flaw

In the spirit of the season, popular theatre show, Open-Mic theatre opens the month of February with an explosive fourth edition. Following the success of previous editions, the theme for this edition is PASSION. Performers on the show would be performing monologues and dramatic pieces.

“We are excited that our fourth edition is holding in the Valentine season,” says organizer and actress Kemi Akindoju. “The choice of passion is a deliberate one and we are expectant at the depth of artistry our performers will bring to the table. Fans and enthusiasts of Open Mic Theatre are promised the time of their lives with the exceptional performances in store from these talented artistes.”

Established to serve as a tool for reviving the declining theatre culture in Nigeria, Open Mic Theatre is championing a conducive environment where actors can hone their skills and improve on their craft. It also provides the needed platform for talented performers to be discovered. Writers, directors, filmmakers, and producers are also given the required platform to improve upon their artistry with the Open Mic Theatre.

The fourth edition will hold on February 4 and will showcase performances from Gideon Okeke, Najite Dede, Joseph Benjamin, Lala Akindoju, Omonor Somolu, Uzo Osimkpa, Ifeanyi Dike, Moyo Lawal,Zara Udofia, Ihuoma Ejiofor, Lizz Njagah, Okey Uzoeshi, Omoye Uzamere, and other brilliant performers.

The talented songbird Evaezi will open the show with a selection of her hits.

Date- Feb 4, 2012
Time - 6pm
Venue- The Date Life House, 33 Sinari Daranijo Street off Younis Bashorun off Ajose Adeogun, Victoria Island Lagos.
Attendance is FREE!!!!!

Bez goes global!

Introducing Acoustic Soul singer/songwriter Midé - who in the same vein as the likes of Asa and Bez before him is set to burst into our consciousness as one Nigerian Soul man to watch out for - with his brand new single “City Lights” and his brand new City Lights EP which is NOW available for FREE download...

Written, arranged and performed by Midé who is also of course on acoustic guitar, “City Lights” is a heartwarming and striking ode to the ways of his city while “Any Which Way” and “When I Get” which complete the City Lights EP are both beautiful and ageless acoustic songs. Authentic, rare and stunning, these three songs are just a taste of what to come from Midé in 2012.

ABOUT MIDÉ

Midé is a twenty-something year old, singer/songwriter who has been mesmerizing audiences with his third arm (Guitar) and soulful voice before and since the launch of his debut EP, 2011’s Travellin’ Light. According to Midé, “I worked hard writing songs and composing music long before it hit me that this is who I am”.

Midé calls it Acoustic Soul and there is no denying the soul in the delightful songs and melodies he delivers. Ever since listening to “Continuum” and “Room for Squares” by John Mayer, a big influence in Midé’s sound, he has developed so much as a songwriter and you only need to hear his new single “City Lights” and new EP to understand. Midé also citesIsrael Houghton, Eric Clapton, Jonathan Butler and a host of other greats (united by their expressiveness, soul and their guitars) as his inspiration.

As the biggest wedding exhibition of the year 2012 heats up, organizers of the most anticipated event, WED magazine have revealed that there are very limited spots available for the Saturday March 24th and Sunday March 25th Exhibition.

The exclusive event which has been slated for the exquisite event place, The Haven located at the Ikeja G.R.A, Lagos is due to attract the power brokers in the industry which cuts across fashion houses, wedding planners, make up lines, jewelers, photography channels, beauticians, caterers, cake makers, bridal accessory retailers from all walks of life, journalists and of course, the general public.

WED Expo will serve as a platform for singles, people in serious relationships and lovers getting ready for marriage, to meet with the power brokers in the industry with the aim of getting rightly informed and inspired on new trends in the industry and how to purchase products and services at reduced prices.

Interested companies and individuals that want to partake in the WED Expo are enjoined to visit the website of the Expo at www.wedexpo.com.ng for exclusive details bothering on the event. Registration is free for guests and spots for exhibitors are selling out fast as the date for the event draws near. Several mouth watering prizes are up for grabs as participants register. Top on the list of the prizes include an all expense paid lovers vacation, a trip to Dubai or South Africa, blackberry phones and many other prizes.

Participants at the 2-day Expo will be treated to a Runway show which will showcase the newest trends in suits and tuxedos, bridal wears and accessories and other fashion stand points which are now in vogue. Top notch bridal designers like Yemi Osunkoya of Kosibah, Frank Osodi, Mai Atafo and Ade Bakare will be available to showcase their latest collections.

Published by Akin Eso, WED is an all gloss exquisite high end magazine which focuses primarily on weddings and relationships. The magazine which hit the Nigerian market last year July is a bridge that connects wedding accessory outfits and other stakeholders in the industry with singles, lovers and the married couples.
Admission to this event is free for all, simply Log on to www.wedexpo.com.ng to register

Date: Saturday 24th – Sunday 25th March 2012
Venue: The Harven, GRA Ikeja (Beside Arch Bishop Vinning), Lagos

Contact: For more info and general enquiries
Call 07032185267
Log on to www.wedexpo.com.ng

In late 2010 2face dropped his fourth studio album - The Unstoppable International Edition released through his label Hypertek Entertainment. Typical of 2face the album produced a bevy of hits.

In no time not only were they all being played on radio and television stations across the country, entertainment websites and blogs also shared the genius of 2Face's music. Today, we gladly present you our esteemed viewers and millions of 2face’s fans all over the world the official video to the hit track “RAINDROPS”.

The video was produced by Isaac Offei Awuah of EKB Studios and shot in Ghana.

American sensation “ KING ROKAN” is back with smash hit MAGBAGBE featuring African Superstar “ 2FACE IDIBIA”. The music video will be premiering later in the year. Watch out for the royal duo.

Abolore Adegbola Akande aka 9ice celebrated his birthday last week at the Oriental Hotels Lekki, Lagos. It was an ebullient event which had a good number of other celebrities and artistes in attendance. Tiwa Savage, Wiz Kid, Vector, Lord of Ajasa amongst a couple of other artistes were not left out as they did what they could do best on the stage. The celebrant was not left out in the performance as they all thrilled the crowd and had them asking for more. Rok Rok On Y’all!!!!!!!!!!!!

Last weekend, Nigerian Idol returned from a recording break with all the action and music that makes it Nigeria’s biggest music reality show. Beginning from the results show, Ibinabo Romeo, Honey Adum and Lynda Giami made it into the final stages of the competition. The live recording also saw the last ten from the Nigerian Idol top 30 fight for a chance to get into the final stage of the competition. On the judges’ table, popular lyricist ‘IllBliss’ who was guest celebrity judge joined Jeffrey Daniel, Yinka Davies and Charly Boy.

“This final top 30 show has been a superb experience for all of us,” said Director Peter Bode. “The contestants understood what was at stake and they outdid themselves. We are proud of every single one of them and we expect that the viewers will continue to vote in their favourites.”

The show got off to a spectaular start with the upbeat performance of Nsikak Umoh who crooned ‘I want it that way’ by Backstreet Boys to the delight of the audience. Phunky Sings was next with an unforgettable version of Vanessa Williams ballad ‘Save the best for the last’. Sanzye
gave a good show with her take on George Michael’s ‘Careless Whisper’. Sly 1 got the audience moving with with the reggae hit by Jimmy Cliff ‘I can see clearly’. For Stephen Onochie, it was a charged rendition of Peabo Bryson’s classic, ‘Celebrate my love’ which compelled Yinka Davies to join him in a soulful duet. Diwari ‘s performance of ‘Total Eclipse’ by Bonnie Tyler was emotion

al and remarkable, while Menim channelled a powerfully sensual Anita Baker with her presentation of ‘S

weet Love’. Another Love song made its way to the stage with the Diana Ross classic ‘Endless Love’, which was sweetly performed by Sophyn. A.Y.O performed one of 2011’s
biggest songs, ‘Grenade’ by Bruno Mars that had the audience sing-along.

The night of amazing performances was brought to a fitting end with Mecinda’s dramatized and powerful performance of the 90’s hit by Brandy ‘I wanna be down’, the audience and judges gave the diva-with-the-attitude a standing ovation for her outstanding effort.

After the results this week, the wild card show comes up next where the judges pick exceptional performers from the top 30 who will take to the stage once more to sing their hearts out for the viewers’ votes. There has been

a lot of speculation from fans and followers of Nigerian idol as to
what the final number of finalists on the show will be this season. Last year, it was a top 13 final even sister show, American Idol, maintains the same format. The producers of the show have chosen to keep mum about their plans on the show, assuring viewers that it would be worth the wait. “We cannot say at this point, what new twists and turns we have this month, said Project Manager Tiwa Medubi. Essentially, it is up to our capable judges; the viewers will have to watch out for what happens next. We promise that it will be electrifying and unexpected, and they will definitely love it!”

Nigerian Idol is proudly brought to you by Etisalat in association with Pepsi and Sony. It is also supported by Air Nigeria, Kentucky Fried Chicken and Megalectrics (owners of Beat FM, Classic FM and Naija FM).

Here's one dude who's constantly building up a "signature tune" for himself, whilst constantly working with both major and also, up and coming artistes in the Nigerian Music Industry. "Irich" a.k.a "FRESH BEAT" is a prolific producer, song writer and also a singer, who's produced for quite a handful of known artistes in the likes of "YQ", "Klever Jay", "Side 1", and a host of others. His current strings of projects have got him dropping 3 fresh singles, on which he's got features from two different artistes on two out of the 3 singles.

The security and welfare of the people shall be the primary purpose of government. - Chapter 2, Section 14 2(b), Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria.

The coordinated bomb blasts in Kano on Friday, January 20th has, yet again, brought to the fore the dire state of insecurity in the nation and the disconnect with The Presidency. While local and international media reported over 100 deaths at the time, the statement from The Presidency, 24 hours after the event, stated, “… seven persons were confirmed dead and others wounded.”

Over a few hours on Friday night, the ancient city of Kano was rocked with over 20 coordinated bomb attacks and gun fire. This was in the same city that had remained peaceful, save police intervention, during the protests focused on government waste and corruption. We are very disturbed that this happened a few days after Kabiru Umar (aka Kabiri Sokoto), the main suspect behind the Christmas Day bombings in Madalla, escaped from police custody and there’s still no word on his whereabouts. Mr President has on several occasions stated that the Nigerian perpetrators of these despicable acts and their international funders are known and will be brought to book. He also recently stated that some of them are in his cabinet.

We state categorically that given the sequence of events over the last 6 months, Jama’atu Ahlus Sunnah Lidda Awati Wal Jihad is not about a Muslim north and a Christian south, but a country that refuses to hold true that we are all created equal and have the same rights regardless of our states of birth or origin. Though their base of operations has been in the north, they’ve killed Christians and Muslims. The unity displayed during the protests, with Muslims protecting churches and Christians forming human shields while Muslims prayed demonstrated to
Nigerians and the world that there is more that binds us together than divides us.

Soul Muzik acts Darey and Mo’eazy last month performed to a cheering crowd at The Accra International Conference Centre, Accra, Ghana!

The crowd rocked all night to lavish beat and tunes from Darey and Mo’eazy and other Ghanian acts. Nigerian female pop sensation Mo’cheddah also performed that night.

The trio also had fun sightseeing and visiting media houses – Y FM and TV 3.

Fast Rising Pop Starlet DENCIA who came into the limelite with her hit single "BeriBeri" has officially dropped her 2nd single titled "SUPERGIRL".

......Red Carpet premieres in Nairobi on February 10, 2012

Nairobi/Lagos, 23 January 2012: Rape, transactional sex and male homosexuality are just some of the important topics being laid bare in Shuga: Love, Sex, Money, the new seven-part drama series about sex-and-relationships amongst contemporary African youth. The red carpet premiere of Shuga: Love, Sex & Money will take place in Nairobi on 10 February 2012.

Produced by MTV Networks Africa in association with The MTV Staying Alive Foundation, PEPFAR and the Partnership for an HIV-Free Generation (HFG), Shuga: Love, Sex, Money was conceived in order to spread the message of responsible sexual behaviour and tolerance. The initiative, funded extensively by the U.S. Government through PEPFAR, is working closely with the Government of Kenya to ensure the programme fits within Kenya’s existing HIV prevention strategy.

A brutally honest account of emotional relationships among Kenyan youth, Shuga: Love, Sex, Money – is set to explode the romantic hearts-and-chocolates view of Valentine’s Day, with a hard-hitting series debut on 14 February 2012 (21:30 CAT, MTV Base, DSTV Channel 322).

Kenyan actress Nancy Wanjiku Karanja, 24, features in a key storyline about rape when her character Baby is attacked by a trusted older relative. Other themes playing out against the background of Kenya’s clubs, bars, hangouts and ghettoes include transactional sex and male homosexuality.

Nancy Karanja is joined in the heartfelt drama by a sizzling cast, including Kenyan singer Avril (Miss B’have), Sharon Olago (Violet), David Omwange (Skola), Nick Mutuma (Leo), Antony Mwangi (Kennedy), Valerie Kimani (Sindi), Nick Ndeda (Angelo), Brenda Wairimu (Dala), Edward Nyanaro (Rayban), Christopher Otieno (Slim) and Wairugi Mutero (Njoki). Nigerian artists Banky W and Wiz Kid both play themselves in the series, performing during emotionally hard-hitting club scenes while Kenya-based Nigerian musician Ikubese Emmanuel - a.k.a. 9con – plays the role of Femi.
Minutely researched, beautifully acted and with stunning cinematography, Shuga: Love, Sex, Money is directed by South African veteran director Teboho Mahlatsi, working with Kenyan director Lupita Nyong’o, who also plays a cameo as Ayira in Shuga; Love, Sex, Money.

Shuga: Love, Sex, Money was shot on location in Nairobi and Malindi during August - September 2011. The show will be offered rights-free to other broadcasters around the world in order to spread its message about responsible sexual behaviour and tolerance.

Shuga: Love, Sex, Money airs on MTV Base (DStv Channel 322) from Tuesday 14 February 2012 (20:30 WAT/21:30 CAT/22:30 EAT, MTV Base, DSTV Channel 322) until Tuesday 27 March 2012.

Graduating from university is normally an occasion for a family get-together. And this was certainly a big celebration for the Ogunsanya quadruplets who were handed their well-deserved degrees from the same university on the same day.

'We all gravitated to similar courses because we've always been interested in business and management and our father is a successful businessman in Nigeria.'

The quads, originally from Lagos, Nigeria, have been living in the UK since the age of seven when they began boarding schools. Since leaving university they have all landed top city jobs.
Toks is due to start working for RBS in London later this year, Temi, who interned at Santander over the summer, has been offered a permanent position with the bank, and Tolu is due to start working for one of the 'Big 4' accountancy firms in the City.

…shot by Clarence Peters
….signs to Crossroads record

When you take into account his stage name Saint Paul, one is likely to believe that the saints have come down to serenade us with their heavenly tunes but alas, he is very much human and Nigerian too.

Christened Osayande Paul Ero, (Saint Paul) took the industry pundits by surprise when he

dropped his debut hit track ‘’no dulling’’ which is presently enjoying massive airplays on local and international media. The video was directed by the award winning Capital Hills’ Chief Executive Officer, Clarence Peters.

A versatile artiste, Saint Paul has shown his musical prowess having recorded songs in all genres not just limited to Pop, RnB and Raggee. A gifted and talented singer and song writer, Saint Paul’s work showcases an array of uncommon and excellent composition. With an album in the pipeline, Saint Paul has more than enough songs to make an album as he is bent on giving music lovers a moment of their lives as he feels the need to make a grand entry into an industry that is fast growing right now.

Saint Paul, the alumnus of Sociology and Anthropology from the famous University of Benin, Edo State, has done songs in Pop, R n B and Reggae genres; he started from his high school days where he was once a choir prefect, he was actively involved in coordinating the renditions and also a strong force behind the annual Christmas carols of his church. Signed on to Crossroads Records, Saint Paul hopes to be one of the revelations of 2012 as far as music is concerned. Armed with an impressive video and backed by a commited record label, Saint Paul is on ‘No Dulling’ tempo.

SouthPaw steps to the mic with this song “Din Din Dara” which was produced by another OAU protege Jchedda Laygiri. As he counts the society to be his influence, he paints the norms and the anomalies of the society on this joint. Din Din Dara basically means 'Enjoyment'. It was used in this song to mean that the Government enjoys at the expense of the suffering masses. He says on the chorus "Fly to Abuja while I walk to mile 12, waste Eva water while I drink ice water, Everybody suffer while they Din Din Dara". Listen up and enjoy!

Artiste Bio

SouthPaw who's real name is Samuel Olojede Afolabi is an upcoming Nigerian rapper and a graduate of Obafemi Awolowo University. Born and bred in the ancient town of Ibadan, the 22 year old lyricist SouthPaw attended Lead City High School in Ibadan. He grew up listening to all kinds of music, hip-hop, soft rock, some bit of Soul and RnB before officially entering the music world as an artiste in 2008. While at university, he hooked up with the Incubation Factory Crew and has recorded a lot of songs to his credit. A fan of good and creative music no matter the genre, SouthPaw cites Jay-Z and TuFace as his major influences in the music industry today. He is currently signed to Incubation Factory, a Record label/Label Imprint put together by Iredumare Opeyemi and Olusegun Oladapo.

With only ten performances to go in the Nigerian Idol top 30, the fight for the next three who will make it to the top 10 has hit fever pitch. The top three votes for the second set of ten will be announced on Friday while on Sunday, Nigerian Idol viewers and fans will watch the final set of ten perform for the three more slots in the top 10.

“It is definitely set to be an action packed week on Nigerian Idol,” Tiwa Medubi who is Project Manager said. “The next set of ten performers have been working hard all week and are impatient to show Nigerians what they have been working on. Viewers will also find out early this weekend which three of them will be moving on to the top ten.” She added.

According to www.nigerianidol.com, the popular show extended the voting lines for an extra week, but would be back with its spectacular presentation of music and amazing performances this weekend. This weekend, audiences will be introduced to the final set of 10 who will try to impress the viewers with their performances in order to make it into the top 10 on the show. The three contestants with the highest votes will then move onto the top 10 stage next weekend bringing the total number of contestants in the top ten to nine. A wild card performance will follow next weekend some of the best performers in the top 30 group will sing for the last spot on the top ten stage. Already fans and viewers of the show have been voting massively for their favourites.

The contest moves on steadily, climaxing at a grand gala in April 1, when a new Nigerian Idol will be announced. The next Nigerian Idol wins an SUV and a grand prize valued at $100,000, which covers a recording contract and management contract. Everybody is also a winner on the show, as all the top 10 finalists will be going home with mouth-watering prizes. The next Nigerian Idol would follow the footsteps of Idol alumni like Yeka Onka, Timi Dakolo and Fantasia who have achieved global recognition on the Idol platform.

Nigerian Idol is proudly brought to you by Etisalat in association with Pepsi and Sony. It is supported by Air Nigeria, Kentucky Fried Chicken and Megalectrics (owners of Beat FM, Classic FM and Naija FM).

"Protest is beyond Labour. It is a matter for the Nigerian people.”
-       Abdulwaheed Omar, NLC President

In the last 2 weeks, the spirit of a Nigerian Dream birthed in the hearts of all sincere patriots was renewed. We salute the Nigerian people who have risen up with one voice to make it clear to our rulers that Enough is Enough! What we saw was not a strike made powerful on the strength of the labour unions. What we saw was a popular but peaceful protest of the Nigerian people, many employed but even more unemployed, disadvantaged and oppressed, giving notice to a civil but clearly un-democratic government, that it will no longer be business as usual in Nigeria. The decision by the Federal Government to deploy the military to key States to stifle the constitutional right of Nigerians to peaceful protest while a key suspect in the Boko Haram killings on Christmas Day is allowed to escape speaks powerfully to the politicization of the issue and the government’s perspective on security.

We at Enough is Enough Nigeria (EIE) want to inform the Nigerian people, who have spoken so clearly and made such sacrifice to have their collective voice heard, that Labour took the decision to accept the Federal Government’s proposal and call off the protest without due consultation and support from a broad range of civil society groups that coalesced to create the groundswell of the popular civil action of the last week as they claimed at yesterday’s press conference. We urge all Nigerians to ensure that the unique opportunity of the solidarity and sacrifice of the last week are not lost to the unilateral and ill-considered decision of the NLC/TUC leadership.

In particular, it is important for Nigerians to honour the memory of those brave compatriots who lost their lives in the course of last week’s protests all across Nigeria. The least we should do in honour of their sacrifice is to ignore the call from the leaders of organized Labour and continue to resist “democratic slavery” until our
collective voice is heard.

In this vein, we have set forth the following demands in the public space directed at the Federal Government and the Legislative Arm of the Federal Republic of Nigeria.

WE DEMAND:
1.      The appointment of two independent international firms that have not been involved in any of the previous audits of the Ministry of Petroleum Resources, NNPC and other state owned entities in the Nigerian oil sector, to carry out a forensic audit of subsidy payments over the last five years. The report of this audit should be the subject of a public hearing at the National Assembly.

2.      That the voice of the people must be heard in the proceedings of the Justice Alfa Belgore Commission. Therefore, a broad range of civil society groups must participate in the proceedings of the Commission as a necessary element that can confer any form of legitimacy to its expected output. The Commission’s Report must be submitted and adopted before the 2012 Budget is approved.

3.      Government must publish the roadmap for the complete deregulation of the oil sector. Removal of subsidy is only one element of the deregulation process and certainly not the first step. Following the example of the power sector roadmap, the oil sector deregulation roadmap must commit to specific action and time frames and responsibility must be vested in identified institutions and individuals.

4.      The latest version of the Petroleum Industry Bill must be passed into law within the minimum time provided by the Constitution and the rules of the National Assembly.

5.      The vicious cycle of turn-around maintenance of government owned refineries MUST stop. The refineries should be sold or concessioned to private investors, if this last round of discussions with the original builders for TAM is unsuccessful.

6.      Full disclosure of salaries and allowances at all tiers of government and a review of same with clear parameters, full disclosure of ALL presidential and parliamentary aides, advisers and assistants. We demand at least a 50% cut across the board in legislative salaries, allowances and overheads of running the National and State legislatures. The Lagos State review of remuneration in the judiciary can serve as a guide. The cost of our federal and state legislatures is an outrage. In the long term, we need to create a part-time single chamber Federal legislature that pays sitting allowances.

7.      The Federal Government should take immediate steps to achieve an outright reduction of at least 25% in its bloated personnel costs in 2012 and a sustained outright reduction in recurrent expenditure of
at least 10% year on year, over the next 3 years. Of the N2.748trn proposed recurrent expenditure in the 2012 budget proposal of the Federal Government, N1.64trn or 72% represents salaries and allowances of Federal public servants. We do not yet know their exact number. Therefore, the federal and state governments must eliminate “ghost workers” and all fraudulent salary and pension payments, rationalize their head-count to minimise duplication and waste, which should include the speedy review and implementation of the Report from the Presidential Committee on Restructuring and Rationalisation of Federal Government Ministries and Parastatals.

8.       Massive investment in road and rail mass transit infrastructure, under government-enabled conditions but private sector ownership and management. In addition, the importation of passenger buses or CKD components for their local assembly should be made duty free and the operations of mass transit companies, partnerships or sole proprietors, should be tax free for five years, during which prices should have normalised. The same incentives should apply to rail and all other forms of mass transit.

9.      That the National Assembly send back the 2012 Budget for review, in light of the duplications and criminally high line items.

10.     A clear plan of expenditure on the post-January 1st ‘savings’. With the subsidy removed, at a price differential of N76 on N141, the Federal Government ‘saved’ N2.66 bn ($16.625 million) per day. As of yesterday (Day 16), it was N42.56 bn ($266 million).

Finally, it would be difficult, if not impossible, for the Honourable Minister of Petroleum Resources to oversee/supervise the investigation of allegations in which her office features prominently. We expect that the honourable thing to do in this situation would be step aside from the office pending the conclusion of the investigations.

The above points represent our demands on behalf of the many silent and voiceless Nigerians that we met on the streets of Nigeria in the last 2 weeks. They demand a government that is structured for effectiveness, above board with integrity and mindful of their daily struggles for existence. We commit to remain a clear voice on their behalf and in this task we will not fail or falter.

God bless the Federal Republic of Nigeria.

PRESIDENTIAL ADDRESS ON THE  IMPLEMENTATION OF THE DEREGULATION POLICY IN THE DOWNSTREAM SECTOR OF THE PETROLEUM INDUSTRY, SUNDAY, JANUARY 15, 2012

________________________________________________


Dear Compatriots,


1.    This is the second time in two weeks I will address you on the deregulation of the downstream petroleum sector. In the last seven days, the nation has witnessed a disruption of economic activities.  Although, the economic imperatives for the policy have been well articulated by government, the Nigerian Labour Congress (NLC) and the Trade Union Congress (TUC) went ahead to declare a nationwide strike.

2.    There was also near-breakdown of law and order in certain parts of the country as a result of the activities of some persons or groups of persons who took advantage of the situation to further their narrow interests by engaging in acts of intimidation, harassment and outright subversion of the Nigerian state. I express my sympathy to those who were adversely affected by the protests.
3.    At the inception of the deregulation policy, Government had set up the Justice Alfa Belgore Committee to liaise with Labour and other stakeholders to address likely grey areas in the policy, but despite all our efforts, Labour refused the option of dialogue and also disobeyed a restraining order of the National Industrial Court of Nigeria.

4.    However, following the intervention of the Leadership of the National Assembly, and other well-meaning Nigerians, Labour accepted to meet with government, but this yielded no tangible result.


5.    It has become clear to government and all well-meaning Nigerians that other interests beyond the implementation of the deregulation policy have hijacked the protest. This has prevented an objective assessment and consideration of all the contending issues for which dialogue was initiated by government. These same interests seek to promote discord, anarchy, and insecurity to the detriment of public peace.

6.    Government appreciates that the implementation of the deregulation policy would cause initial hardships and commends Nigerians who have put forth suggestions and credible alternatives in this regard. Government also salutes Nigerians who by and large, conducted themselves peacefully while expressing their grievances. Let me assure you that government will continue to respect the people’s right to express themselves within the confines of the law and in accordance with the dictates of our democratic space.
 
7.    Government will continue to pursue full deregulation of the downstream petroleum sector. However, given the hardships being suffered by Nigerians, and after due consideration and consultations with state governors and the leadership of the National Assembly, government has approved the reduction of the pump price of petrol to N97 per litre. The Petroleum Products Pricing Regulatory Agency (PPPRA) has been directed to ensure compliance with this new pump price.

8.    Government is working hard to reduce recurrent expenditure in line with current realities and to cut down on the cost of governance. In the meantime, government has commenced the implementation of the Subsidy Reinvestment and Empowerment projects: including the Federal Government- assisted mass transit programme which is already in place, and job creation for the youth. 

9.     Furthermore, the legal and regulatory regime for the petroleum industry will be reviewed to address accountability issues and current lapses in the Industry. In this regard, the Petroleum Industry Bill will be given accelerated attention. The report of the forensic audit carried out on the NNPC is being studied with a view to implementing the recommendations and sanctioning proven acts of corruption in the industry.

10.    Let me assure Nigerians that this administration is irrevocably committed to tackling corruption in the petroleum industry as well as other sectors of the economy. Consequently, all those found to have contributed one way or the other to the economic adversity of the country will be dealt with in accordance with the law.

11.    My dear compatriots, I urge you to show understanding for the imperatives of the adjustment in the pump price of petrol and give government your full support to ensure its successful implementation. I further appeal to Nigerians to go back to work and go about their normal duties as government has made adequate arrangements for the protection of life and property throughout the federation.

12.    Government will not condone brazen acts of criminality and subversion. As President, I have sworn to uphold the unity, peace and order of the Nigerian State and by the grace of God, I intend to fully and effectively discharge that responsibility.  Let me add that we are desirous of further engagements with Labour. I urge our Labour leaders to call off their strike, and go back to work.

13.    Nigeria belongs to all of us and we must collectively safeguard its unity.

14.    Thank you. God bless the Federal Republic of Nigeria.


GOODLUCK EBELE JONATHAN, GCFR President, Federal Republic of Nigeria.

This Sunday's edition of Rubbin’ Minds, the leading national TV show for young Nigerians to discuss issues of national interest, we'll be looking at events on the nation's front burner in the past week. Rubbin’ Minds shows on Channels Television every Sunday at 3pm.
The week's show is captioned 'Something Has Snapped'. Discussions between Labour and Government are currently deadlocked and the possibility of a PENGASSAN shutdown with crippling economic consequences is imminent. Against the backdrop of already pressing security concerns, it would seem the whole polity is treading on thin ice.

We've got two segments lined up for this week's show:

The first will feature Efe Paul Azimo - a poet who specialises in revolutionary themes and is popular in literary circles. Efe Paul was at the Occupy Nigeria rallies and will treat us to one of his poems. We'll also be having GT Da Guitarman with his new single 'Excuse Me Sir'.
The second segment will be a review of the revolution that sparked across the country this past week ( We'll play clips of the different protests at this time). And to put it all in context, we'll be having Fela Durotoye - CEO Visible Impact, Gbenga Sesan - ED Paradigm Initiative, Kola Oyeneyin - Convener Sleeves Up and Seun Kuti - Musician and Activist. Also joining us in the studio is Ugoma Adegoke, Fashion Designer and Co-founder, The Life House.

Rubbin’ Minds shows on Channels TV on terrestial television and DSTV Channel 134 on cable. It can also be watched online via http://ynaija.com/rubbin-minds/ or www.channelstv.com.

Smash Akademy Presents A Team Capital/Capital Dreams Productions

With the present buzz building over the first episode from the “SUBSIDY” short film that hit the internet barely a week ago, Garnered over 10,000 views in barely 2 days and turning the viral community bugging.

About 72 hours ago, we were informed that the publisher of Sardauna Magazine, Mr. Rilwan Hassan had been arrested by the State Security Service (SSS) for publishing an edition on the ongoing fuel subsidy saga in Nigeria. Speaking on his arrest, Hassan tells Olamild Ent the following:

Sony Music Africa recording artist LIRA is following in the footsteps of the legendary Miriam Makeba & Letta Mbulu, releasing four platinum albums and a triple platinum Live in Concert DVD making her the highest selling musical artist in South Africa today - the Afro-Soul vocalist makes her entrance into America and Canada with her 14-track LP Rise Again featuring the hit single "Feel Good".

D'tunes brings together Wise Alapomeji, Maytronomy and for the second time Efa on this mid-tempo cut as they pour out their heart out on “Strange Things”. The mellow tune, produced by D'tunes himself addresses the Strange Things happening in the country at present. “Strange Things Are Happening, But No One Bothers To Look, So Di Gba Ti Ogiri Ba Wo, Abi Ti Osa Ba Gbe” sings a passionate Wise on the hook. Listen up and enjoy.

D'TUNES' BIO

Extraordinaire producer D’tunes, real name Adesanya Doyinsola like most successful musicians all over the world started music from the Church by learning how to play the drums and keyboard until he was deemed fit enough to play for the church choir. Years later, his musical prowess has been channeled into beat making and song writing despite early oppositions from parents. At a tender age of 20, D’tunes has already made his mark in the industry by lacing tracks for popular acts like Faze, Ruggedman, Dipp, Silver Saddih, Lord of Ajasa, Cap B, Iceberg Slim, Rico White, Shank, Hakym d Dream, Rasheed and many others.

Here’s a fresh tune from RayPower Fm‘s Top Ten and Drive Time [PowerPlay] Host, SliZz Da WhiZz. He’s a rapper, broadcaster and songwriter, and he’s dropping this fresh tune titled “Kilokanmi“, translated as “What’s My Business” and he features another rapper we know as Jhybo.

SliZz Da WhiZz whose real names are Tumi Lawrence-Oseni, has been on Radio since March 2004 and has worked with/on four different radio stations. He’s a graduate of Mass Communication [MAPOLY] and hails from Ogun State. Music has always been a part of his life even as far back as high school, but he had to focus on broadcasting in the process of setting priorities.

Now he’s ready to make everyone feel the other side of him, with his appealing “Contemporary Urban HipHop“!!! Lovely sounds, no cheap music nor lyrics, and “Kilokanmi” is a single off the forthcoming album, “INVASION LICENSE“.

Get ready as he invades your houses, cars, offices, phones, Ipods etc with his music!!! “Two thousand, and…………whatever”!!!

Rotimi *Roteski* Isola, based out in Lagos Nigeria started his sojourn with music at an early age. Growing up in a family that was musically inclined (his mum and his sister were involved in choir at different times), he started to hone is in-born talents while at secondary school where he began putting his thoughts on paper and expressing himself. During the same period he also discovered what he regarded as his first love; another talent he had in his entertainment arsenal: i.e. Dancing. It was at that point that he started to consider himself as a songwriter and a dancer. Singing was to come later in the future.

The group STYL was formed in 1997 as a gospel quartet by founding members Shifi Emoefe, Tunde Akinsanmi, Yemi Akinwonmi, and Lanre Faneyi. In 1999 Lanre passed away and Zeal Onyecheme joined the group. The name STYL which was formed by combining the first letters of the first names of the founding members then turned to Styl-Plus, the Plus being used to indicate the new addition to the group. In the year 2001, the group expanded from singing strictly gospel songs, to inspirational and love songs. In 2002 Yemi left the group to pursue another career. In 2003 the group teamed up with Anthony 'T-Jazz' Ukpong and Joseph 'Joey' Ukpong to form their own record label; Styl-Plus Music.

In spite of the hiccups (for those of us in Nigeria), the feeling of uncertainty and frustration, permit us to share with you in the language that transcends all geographical, religious and age boundaries, the language that is universal…Music! through a song that is bound to make you look at the challenge differently yet, ‘ginger’ (motivate) you to making the best out of any situation you find yourself in and remain resilient.

ONE Management presents a video from an artiste that industry pundits have said to look out for in 2012. Here's EBISAN’s video for her hit single LOVE STORY which is currently making its way through the charts.