BREAKING: FG declares Thursday, October 29 public holiday

The Federal Government has declared Thursday October 29, 2020 as Public Holiday to mark this year’s Eidul-Mawlid Celebration in commemoration of the birth of the Holy Prophet Muhammad (Peace be upon him).

A statement signed on Tuesday by Mohammed Manga Director (Press & Public Relations) Ministry of Interior said the Minister Ogbeni Rauf Aregbesola, who made the declaration on behalf of the Federal Government, congratulated the Muslim faithful both at home and abroad for witnessing this year’s occasion.

Aregbesola enjoined them to imbibe the spirit of love, patience and perseverance which are the virtues of the Holy Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him), adding that doing so would guarantee peace and security in the country.

The Minister admonished Muslims to follow the teaching of the Holy Quran in Chapter 4 Verse 59 which says: “O you who believe! Obey God and obey the Messenger, and those from among you who are vested with authority; and if you are to dispute among yourselves about anything, refer it to God and the Messenger, if indeed you believe in God and the Last Day. This is the best (for you), and fairest in the end”

Aregbesola also urged Nigerians, particularly Muslims, at this moment, to abhor violence, lawlessness, wantonness and daylight robbery as witnessed across the country most recently, stressing that Nigeria is the pride of the black race and should provide responsible leadership for the greatness and development of the African continent and all black people.

While calling for a stop to all divisive tendencies across the country, the Minister urged all Nigerians and the youth in particular, to embrace peace and cooperate with the President Muhammadu Buhari led-Administration in its effort to build a virile nation, which all citizens can be proud of.

The minister, who described the youth as the hope and future of the nation advised them further to deepen democracy and not dampen it. For him, it is with more democracy that we can overcome our challenges, noting that the challenges of nationhood that we face are surmountable if we work through the democratic process.

Why we didn't call off strike yesterday - ASUU

The Academic Staff Union of Universities has explained why it is yet to call off its ongoing strike which has lingered for months.

ASUU President, Prof. Biodun Ogunyemi in an interview with The Punch said they are waiting for the government to conduct an integrity test on the University Transparency and Accountability Solution before calling off the strike.

The union had presented the payment platform in place of the federal government’s Integrated Payroll and Personnel Information System. Ogunyemi disclosed that the FG needs to give the clearance to National Information Technology Development Agency to conduct integrity test on UTAS.

He said:

“The integrity test will be handled by NITDA, it is government that will facilitate it because NITDA is a government, agency and unless you get clearance from the government that test cannot be conducted.”

On if UTAS has been accepted, he said:

“We are still talking, we have given them the position of our members, we are thinking we should be able to hold a meeting this week if they have not changed plans. The meeting for Monday was postponed. In principal, they have accepted UTAS and told us to go for the test, and on our part, we have started the process.

"We had presented UTAS at three levels, starting with the Ministry of Education, Senate President and members of his team, officials of Ministry of Finance and Office of the Accountant General of the Federation, where all other stakeholders were present, including NITDA, all stakeholders have witnessed the presentation and the next stage of integrity test is what we are moving in to. If government facilitates it, it is not something that should drag for too long at all. We don’t foresee any problem with UTAS; it also depends on how early the government makes it possible for the integrity test to be conducted.”

Ogunyemi further affirmed that they will resume academic activities when the government plays its part.

He added:

“Our members are ready to resume work as early as government is ready to play its part. I’m sure you are not suggesting that our members should resume on empty stomach."

Palliatives in warehouses evidence my dad isn’t Nigeria’s problem -Buhari’s daughter

A daughter of the President, Zahra Buhari-Indimi, says the discovery of food items and other COVID-19 palliatives in several warehouses across the country is evidence that her father, Major General Muhammadu Buhari (retd.), is not Nigeria’s problem.

Zahra said this on her Instagram Stories on Sunday.

She wrote, “Now that people confirmed that Buhari distributed enough palliatives nationwide, it is clear Buhari is not our problem.”

Thousands of Nigerians have in the last few days plundered warehouses in several states including Lagos, Plateau,  Osun, and Kwara in the wake of the #EndSARS protests.

In some instances, COVID-19 palliatives donated by the private sector-led Coalition Against COVID-19 were found in private homes of politicians.

Some of the items include cartons of noodles, sacks of garri, and bags of rice, some of which had gone bad due to poor and prolonged storage.

In Osun State, the government said it was waiting for officials from Abuja to “commission” the goods hence the delay in distributing them while in Lagos, the Majority Leader of the House of Assembly, SOB Agunbiade, said he kept the palliatives in his Ikorodu home because he wanted to distribute them on his birthday.

Socio-Economic Rights and Accountability Project has asked the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission to investigate the circumstances surrounding the alleged hoarding of COVID-19 palliatives in warehouses in several states.

SERAP also urged the ICPC “to visit the states where COVID-19 palliatives have been discovered in warehouses, and to track and monitor the distribution of palliatives across the 36 states of the country, and the Federal Capital Territory, Abuja, to remove the risks of diversion, and ensure that the palliatives get to those most in need, and not used for political or corrupt purposes.”

Several Nigerians had complained about the high rate of poverty in the country compounded by the lockdown ordered in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic.

Several business moguls including industrialist, Aliko Dangote, Mike Adenuga, Femi Otedola, Oba Otudeko, Folorunsho Alakija, Tony Elumelu, and several others had donated over N30 billion in cash and food items to assist federal and state governments in tackling the COVID-19 challenge.

However, there have been complaints by several groups that monies and items had been diverted, an allegation which the ICPC is investigating.

End SARS: Buhari to address Nigerians on Lekki toll gate shooting – FG

The Federal Government, on Saturday, assured that President Muhammadu Buhari would address Nigerians over the shooting in Lekki toll gate area of Lagos State on Tuesday.

Minister of Youth and Sports Development, Sunday Dare, said Buhari would address Nigerians when he has all the facts on the incident.

Gunmen believed to be soldiers had shot at End SARS protesters demonstrating against police brutality in Lekki toll gate.

Few days after the gunshot, Buhari had addressed Nigerians in a nationwide broadcast but failed to mention the shooting.

Buhari’s nationwide speech had attracted some backlash from Nigerians.

But, the Presidency had explained that the incident was under investigatio n, hence Buhari’s inability to mention the matter in his broadcast.

However, Dare assured that the president has ordered an investigation into the incident.

Speaking on Arise TV, Dare: “For sure, the President has ordered for an investigation. He had a National Security Meeting yesterday (Friday). I can tell you that this is ongoing already.

“The President wants to have the facts and that is going to be made public.

“It is going to be difficult to hide all these facts because we live in a multimedia world and we have evidence, collaborations, and all of that, and I think it is important to get the facts right.

“That is the path that the President has toed and I am sure that when these facts are made available, this President because he has integrity, will level with the Nigerian people about what happened on Tuesday in Lekki.”

Breaking: IGP dissolves SARS nationwide

The Inspector-General of Police, Mohammed Adamu, has dissolved the Federal Special Anti-Robbery Squad of the Nigeria Police Force nationwide.

Adamu made the announcement in a live broadcast on Sunday October 11, and confirmed the operatives will be redeployed to other police formations and commands.

The announcement comes days after online and offline protests against the brutality and extra-judicial killings by SARS operatives which gained global attention.

Read the full statement below. 

In the finest spirit of democratic, citizen-centred and community policing, the Inspector-General of Police, IGP M.A Adamu, NPM, mni has today, 11th October, 2020, dissolved the Special Anti-Robbery Squad (SARS) across the 36 State Police Commands and the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) where they hitherto existed.

The IGP, while noting that the dissolution of SARS is in response to the yearnings of the Nigerian people, observes that by this dissolution, all officers and men of the now defunct Special Anti-robbery Squad are being redeployed with immediate effect.

The IGP notes that the Force is not oblivious of the ever present need to combat armed robbery, kidnapping and other violent crimes in the country which was before now the core mandate of the erstwhile Squad. He assures that a new policing arrangement to address anticipated policing gaps the dissolution of SARS would cause has been evolved and shall be announced in due course.

Meanwhile, as part of measures to prevent a re-occurrence of events that gave rise to the dissolution of SARS, a Citizens’ and Strategic Stakeholders’ Forum is being formed to regularly interface with Police leadership at all levels and advise on police activities as they affect the general public.

In addition, the Force is constituting an Investigation Team which shall include Civil Society Organizations and Human Rights Bodies to work with the Police in investigating alleged cases of human rights violations. The measure, the IGP believes, will enhance transparency and accountability in police services as well as providing a system of deterrence for erring police officers whose action clearly violates the rights of the citizenry.

The IGP appreciates and commends all citizens particularly those who genuinely express their concerns for a better policing orientation in an organized, patriotic and civil manner. He reaffirms the determination of the Force to bequeath to the country a Police Force and System that is professional in service delivery and most importantly, accountable to the people.

All schools should resume academic activities – FG

The Federal Government has directed all schools (including universities, polytechnics, and colleges of education) to reopen. This was announced by the minister of education, Adamu Adamu, during a press briefing in Abuja on Friday. He however advised institutions to adhere to the guidelines on reopening of schools as earlier released by the presidential task force.

He also disclosed that all unity schools should open by October 12 “while states and private schools will determine their own modalities of reopening.”

According to Adamu, the decision to reopen the schools was because the COVID-19 infection figure is declining.

“We have consulted widely with stakeholders in the sector including the Association of Private Schools (NAPPS), Provosts of Colleges of Education, Rectors of Polytechnics, Vice-Chancellors of Universities, State Governors, Commissioners of Education and other development partners on the matter and secured their support and cooperation,” he said.

He said adequate sanctions await any school owner that does not comply with the safety guidelines which may result in an outbreak of coronavirus in the school.

He advised schools to be vigilant, strict, and rigid in the implementation of COVID-19 protocols for the safety of the children, insisting that nothing should be taken for granted.

UPDATED: Lagos okays full reopening of churches, mosques‌

The Lagos State Governor, Babajide Sanwo-Olu, has approved the full reopening of worship centres in the state.

He announced this during a briefing in Lagos on Saturday.

The governor said mosques can hold their prayers five times daily while churches can also commence weekly services.

The governor had on Friday, August 7 allowed mosques and churches to commence their Friday and Sunday services only.

He, however, warned that the safety protocols released by the government must be strictly adhered to.

“Muslims can now have their five times daily prayers in mosques. Churches can also begin mid-week services,” the Governor said

Worship centres in the state had been shut since March as part of measures to contain the spread of COVID-19.

As of Friday, September 18, 2020, the governor said, Lagos State had conducted close to 100,000 tests, and recorded a total of 18,854 confirmed cases of COVID-19.

Of this number, 15,598 have recovered in community, 592 are currently active in the community, and 207 deaths have sadly occurred.

“It is however interesting to note that we have also recorded a dramatic decline in the number of Covid-19 related deaths at our facilities,” he added.

Sanwo-Olu advised citizens not to let down their guide against the pandemic, urging them to act responsibly by maintaining the required levels of hygiene.

“The Lagos State Government, like the Federal Government, is committed to continuing the maintenance of a fine balance between the safety of lives and the sustenance of livelihoods.

“We will continue to make adjustments as required, but the gradual resumption of social, educational, and economic activity must never be taken as an excuse to let down our guard against the pandemic,” the governor said.

COVID-19: Oyo State Govt releases calendar for school resumption

THE Oyo State Government, on Monday, announced September 21, 2020, as the beginning of the 2020/2021 academic session for primary and secondary schools in the state.

A statement by the Commissioner for Education, Science and Technology, Barr. Olasunkanmi Olaleye indicated that the first term of the new academic calendar would run between September 21 and December 18, 2020.

The statement added that the second term of the academic session is expected to run from January 11 to April 9, 2021, while the third term would be from May 3 to July 30, 2021.

The commissioner said: “The Ministry of Education, Science and Technology enjoins all stakeholders and members of the public to take note of the details of the academic calendar.

It would be recalled that the new calendar was approved on July 21 at a meeting of the State Executive Council, to guide resumption of schools and other associated educational activities in the state amid the COVID-19 pandemic, which affected educational activities around the world.

Nigeria @60: FG calls for ideas on anniversary branding, offers prizes

- Nigeria's 60th Independence Day will be celebrated in line with Covid-19 protocols and guidelines

- Nigerians who have great ideas for slogan, poems about Nigeria, photography have been called to submit entries

- Those who emerge winners will receive prizes, as well as be part of this great event

Nigeria will be celebrating its Diamond Jubilee as it turns 60 years on October 1, 2020, and the Federal Government has something planned that will benefit creatives.

The Federal Government has called on Nigerians to submit creative ideas in poetry, photography, logo design that can form the brand of the 60th Independence anniversary.

The thematic and creative aspects of the event would be designed by Nigerians for Nigeria. The aim is to ensure inclusiveness.

This was disclosed by Dr Isa Pantami, the Minister of Communication and digital economy in a statement released on Friday, September 4.

The challenge is looking for talented, critical thinking and creative individuals or teams to produce the slogan, photograph, and a poem for Nigerians to mark this year's Independence Day celebration.

Pantami said Nigeria is seeking talents to create befitting brand for Diamond Jubilee celebration. 

The theme of this year's celebration is “Together at 60.”

Those who want to partake in the challenge have been asked to submit their entries. To do so, you have to visit the challenge portal: 

https://nigeriaAt60.gov.ng 

People can also vote for the best brand on the portal.

The best brand and concept will be presented to President Muhammadu Buhari and also used in the celebration of Nigeria’s 60th Anniversary.

"The winners will also receive prizes, in addition to being part of this epoch-making event," Pantami added.

The Communication Minister said they are looking forward to the active participation of all as the country eagerly awaits the unveiling of the winning brand and other elements of the celebration.

COVID-19: FG okays full reopening of schools

The Federal Government has asked school administrators to start preparing for the full reopening of schools.

Sani Aliyu, national coordinator of the presidential task force (PTF) on COVID-19, gave the directive at the PTF briefing on Thursday. Aliyu, who directed them to conduct risk assessment, said the reopening would be done in phases.

“For educational institutions which include daycare, primary, secondary and tertiary institutions. Educational institutions should begin the process of working towards potentially reopening within this phase,” he said.

“However, we strongly recommend that states conduct risk assessment to ensure all schools are at a level of compliance and create a monitoring mechanism to assess, create, and monitor this level of preparedness.

Meanwhile, daycare centres should remain closed until this level of risk is assessed. If there will be opening of schools, it must be stage and preferably carried out in phases to ensure that this does not pose a risk to the public and in particular to vulnerable groups that might end up getting infected by students going back home.”

The Federal G7overnment had ordered a nationwide closure of schools in March to check the spread of COVID-19.

But in July, the government approved reopening of schools for students who are currently sitting for the West African Senior School Certificate Examination (WASSCE).

BREAKING: Sanwo-Olu orders reopening of tertiary institutions

Lagos State Governor, Babajide Sanwo-Olu, has ordered the reopening of tertiary institutions effective September 14.

“I am pleased to announce that our tertiary institution will be allowed to reopen from September 14, 2020, all our tertiary institutions,” the governor said during a briefing on Saturday at the State House, Marina.

Sad: Here Are The 4 Major Reasons The VC Of UNILAG Was Removed Today

The sad news of the Removal of The Vice Chancellor of University of Lagos (UNILAG), Professor Olawatoyin Ogundipe became one of the major news on the internet due to the nature and reasons why the able Vice chancilor was sacked. The VC has been sacked by the governing council of the institution.

From what we've gathered, His removal was announced during meeting of the Governing Council of the institution which held at the National Universities Commission (NUC) building in the federal capital territory Abuja today.

Also, The meeting that led to his removal was presided over by its Pro-Chancellor and Chairman of Council, Dr. Wale Babalakin (SAN) and there was a vote.

During the voting process, (7)Seven members voted for the removal of the Vice Chancellor. And (4) four voted against it. One of the members voted that he should rather be placed on suspension that sacking him.

As the matter is still hot, we've gathered from the Circular realeases and also from a reputable media source, Sahara reporters to be precise, that the Vice Chancellor of Lagos University was sacked for some reasons.

Some of these are:

1- Financial Recklessness

2- Gross Misconduct

3- Abuse Of Office

4- Prof Olawatoyin was also removed after investigations carried out by the Council allegedly found him guilty of serious acts of wrongdoings.

This was According to the circular which was signed by the Registrar and Secretary to Council, Oladejo Azeez.

This is the circular:

Russia Approves COVID-19 Vaccine. Putin's Daughter Vaccinated

Putin says Russia’s Health Ministry has approved world’s FIRST Covid-19 vaccine – his own daughter has been vaccinated

Vladimir Putin announced on Tuesday morning that Russia has registered the world's first vaccine against coronavirus. He says the vaccine is effective in forming immunity against the deadly pathogen which has spread globally.

“As far as I know, a vaccine against the coronavirus infection has been registered this morning (in Russia) for the first time in the world,” the President told members of the government. “I thank everyone who worked on the vaccine - it’s a very important moment for the whole world.

Putin insisted that vaccination in Russia should only be carried out on a voluntary basis, with nobody forced to accept immunization. He also revealed that one of his daughters has already been vaccinated.

With over 700,000 deaths attributed to the pandemic and over 20 million official cases internationally, the entire planet is crying out for a solution to the Covid-19 crisis. It is hoped the Russian vaccine will go into general circulation by January. In the meantime, front-line health workers and the medically vulnerable will be given priority, according to the Health Ministry.

Putin asked Health Minister Mikhail Murashko to provide more detailed information about the plans for immunization. "I know that it works rather effectively, forms a stable immunity, and, I repeat, it passed all the necessary inspections," the President added.

Last week, the Health Minister himself stated that initial clinical trials of the vaccine developed by the Gamelei Research Center in Moscow had been completed.

Putin said that his daughter had a slight temperature after taking part in trials, but that it quickly went away. "One of my daughters got the vaccine. In this sense, she took part in the experiment. After the first vaccination, she had a temperature of 38, the next day - 37 and that was all."

FG gives update on reopening of Universities

The Federal Government has said universities in the country can resume classes once they have put the necessary COVID-19 guidelines in place.

The statement was made by, Suleiman Yusuf, the deputy executive secretary of academics for the National Universities Commission (NUC), at a press conference in Abuja on Tuesday, August 4, Premium Times reported.

NUC says it is working with universities to discuss preparations that should be in place before reopening.

He said the commission is working with universities to discuss preparations that should be in place before reopening of the tertiary institutions.

Another official of the NUC, Abubakar Rasheed, who serves as the executive secretary of the commission stated that the agency is already collecting data from universities to assess their preparedness to resume academic activities.

He also disclosed that the NUC is trying to mediate with the Academic Staff Union of Universities’ (ASUU) to resolve the strike by university lecturers.

Meanwhile, the Federal Government has disclosed that it has begun disinfecting  Unity schools as students head back to classes.

Mohammed Mahmood Abubakar, the Minister of Environment, speaking in Kaduna said that the decontamination is in collaboration with the Federal Ministry of Education, Daily Trust reported.

He revealed that this will be done immediately after the Eid-el-Kabir break, adding that personnel will be mounting surveillance in some of the exam centers.

The Environment Minister stated that the disinfection will begin with federal government colleges and then schools that will host the Senior School Certificate Examination (SSCE).

According to Abubakar, the ministries have put in place a sustainable system that will protect the health of learners and their caregivers at all educational levels.

While urging parents to ensure that their wards are properly kitted with face masks during the examination, the minister reassured them of the safety and well-being of the students.

Lagos State Government reopens Worship centers, Bars, Clubs stay closed

Lagos state government reopens worship centers August 7, restaurants to open for in-dining services from August 14

The Lagos state governor, Babajide Sanwo-Olu, has announced the reopening of worship centers in the state beginning from Friday, August 7.

Governor Sanwo-Olu announced this at a press briefing today August 1.

While mosques will be reopened next week Friday August 7, the governor said churches will follow suit on Sunday, August 9. He said religious leaders must make available hand sanitizers, thermometer guns, adding that the state government will ensure that social distancing is maintained.

“Places of worship in Lagos will now be opened from Friday, the 7th of August for our Muslim worshippers, and on Sunday, the 9th of August for our Christian worshippers. We will only be allowing a maximum of 50% of their capacity” he said

He said night vigils and other services are still suspended. Citizens above 65 years old are to stay at home. He said handshakes, hugs and ''hi-fives'' are banned during services. The Governor has also increased public gatherings capacity from 20 to 50 people.

The governor also announced that restaurants will resume eat-in services in the state beginning from August 14. Social clubs and recreational centers would be allowed to reopen beginning from August 14.

He said along with the Federal government directive, schools in the state will reopen for exit classes beginning from August 3.

The governor said Night clubs, cinemas, game houses, and spas in the state are to remain shut.

Ondo reopens public, private schools

The Ondo state government has approved the resumption of both public and private secondary schools from August 4th, 2020 for the purpose of writing SSCE by affected students.

The government in a circular announced at the weekend through the ministry of Education, Science and Technology gave conditions for the reopening of schools.

As a way of preventing the spread of the COVID-l9 pandemic among the students, the following conditions must be satisfied by schools:

(i) Schools are to open From 8 am to 2 pm, Mondays to Fridays.

(ii) Disinfection and fumigation of all facilities must be carried out at least a week before resumption.

(iii) Hand washing spots should be provided, to guarantee regular washing of hands by learners and teachers.

The circular reads; “Sequel to the release of a comprehensive schedule for the conduct of the various National Examinations by the Federal Government after the series of meetings with the Chief Executives of examination bodies in the country, the Ministry of Education, Science and Technology, Ondo State wishes to notify you about the approval to re-open all the public and private secondary schools in the State on 4" August, 2020, for the students in SSS 3 class only for the purpose of writing the Senior School Certificate Examinations (WAEC and NECO). Please note that the approved dates for the conduct of the examinations are as stated below: 

(i) WAEC SSCE : 17th August till 18th September. 2020

(ii) NECO SSCE : 5th October till 18th November, 2020.

Sanwo-Olu To Meet The Boy In The “Mummy Calm Down “ Video

The Governor shared the news on his official Instagram and Twitter accounts few minutes ago and he also urged lagosians to calm down in this festive period.

Babajide Sanwo-Olu wrote:

I saw a video of a charming young boy online asking his mom to ‘calm down’ as she was set to punish him for a misdemeanour. I was moved by his sobriety, which reflected in his promise of “last chance”, when confronted with the fact that he is a regular offender.

I urge every Lagosian to ‘calm down’ and not get carried away. Like the rest of the world, we are still in the middle of a pandemic and need to remain extremely careful to keep the gains of the sacrifices we have all made in the past months. 

Let’s calm down!

As an aside, I would like to meet the young boy since we both now have exclusive rights to the phrasal verb ‘calm down’.

BREAKING: Schools to re-open August 4th, FG says

Federal Government, on Monday, announced that secondary schools in the country are to reopen on 4th of August, 2020, though, for exit classes only.

Director, Press and Public Relations, Federal Ministry of Education, Ben Bem Goong, in a statement released in Abuja, explained that the decisions was reached at a virtual consultative meeting between the Federal Ministry of Education, Commissioners of Education of the 36 states, the Nigerian Union of Teachers, (NUT), Proprietors of private schools, and Chief Executives of examination bodies.

He said that the stakeholders agreed that the students in exit classes should resume immediately after the Sallah break, to enable them prepare for the WAEC examinations scheduled to commence from the 17th of August, 2020.

Goong explained: “Stakeholders at the meeting also resolved that a passionate appeal be made to the Federal Government through the Presidential Task Force (PTF) on COVID-19 and public spirited Nigerians for assistance to schools across the country to enable them fast track the preparations for safe reopening, as agreed.”

He also disclosed that another meeting is to be convened on Tuesday between the Federal Ministry of Education and Chief Executives of examination bodies namely, NECO, NABTEB and NBAIS to harmonise their examination dates, which will be conveyed to stakeholders expeditiously.

For months now, Federal Government has been meeting with stakeholders in education sector regarding the safe reopening of schools across the country following the prolonged shutdown of the schools due to coronavirus pandemic.

EDUCATION: Latest News On Schools Resumption as Oyo state reopen schools

When will school resume in Nigeria? 

Have you been asking when schools will resume? 

This page is for you!

Oyo State govt opens All Schools in the state, cancels 3rd Term for students

Oyo State Government has cancelled the third term for the 2019/2020 academic session for primary and secondary schools.

With the development, pupils are to be promoted based on their academic performance in first and second terms of the suspended session.

A statement by the Commissioner for Education, Science and Technology, Mr. Olasunkanmi Olaleye, said terminal classes students, including Primary Six, Junior Secondary School 3 and Senior Secondary School 3, are to proceed on holiday from July 30 and resume for their examination. Their examination details was released in the revised academic calendar.

Below is their revised academic calendar:

• “Pry 6, JSS 3 and SSS 3 will proceed on holiday from July 30 and resume for their examination as follows:
• “Basic Education Certificate Examination (BECE)- 10th to 18th August 2020. Competitive Entrance Examination into the Schools of Science- 19th August 2020.
• “Placement/Screening Test to JSS1- 20th August 2020. Placement Test into Technical Colleges- 28th August 2020
• “The SSS 3 will resume for their examination as soon as the West African Examinations Council (WAEC) announces the date.
• “The 2020/21 academic session, according to the calendar approved by the State Council is as follows:
• “First Term- 21st September to 18th December 2020. Second Term- 11th January to 9th April 2021. Third Term- 3rd May to 30th July 2021.
• “The Ministry of Education, Science and Technology enjoins stakeholders and the public to take note of the details of the academic calendar.

Also, The Federal Government has given school owners in the country up to July 29, 2020, to meet specific guidelines towards the reopening of schools at a date to be announced in due course.

Minister of State for Education, Hon. Chukwuemeka Nwajiuba, who stated this, Friday, in Abuja, said the ministry, having consulted widely, has in collaboration with Federal Ministry of Health, Nigerian Centre for Disease Control, (NCDC), the Education in Emergencies Working Group, developed and circulated guidelines for the reopening of schools.

The minister, according to a statement, by the Director of Information in the Ministry, Bem Goong, “school owners are to prepare and comply with the guidelines.

Nwajuiba said schools are to undertake self-assessment and send feedback to state ministries of education, not later than 29 July 2020, “the statement quoted him as saying.

He said consultations with relevant stakeholders will be held to review the situation and decide on a specific date for reopening or otherwise.

The minister further said, having taken the painful but necessary decision not to reopen schools without necessary preparations to ensure the safety of students and teachers, the Federal Ministry of Education has continued consultations with stakeholders, and a mechanism to assess and monitor compliance shall be put in place.

According to him, “Since Tuesday last week, we have consulted widely with stakeholders in the sector, including Commissioners of Education in all the states of the federation, the Association of Private School Owners of Nigeria,(APSON), National Association of Proprietors of Private Schools,(NAPPS), Provosts of Colleges of Education, Rectors of Polytechnics, Vice-Chancellors of universities, some state governors, and development partners."

Let's hope the Federal Government and other State government reopen schools as well

COVID-19 Vaccine Is Tested And Safe, Says Russian Military

The Russian defence ministry said on Wednesday it had developed a “safe” coronavirus vaccine following clinical trials on a group of volunteers.

The ministry said 18 people had participated in the research and were discharged without “serious adverse events, health complaints, complications or side effects”.

The results of the trials “allow us to speak with confidence about the safety and good tolerability of the vaccine”, it said in a statement.

The defence ministry did not say whether the vaccine was in fact effective but a doctor working on the trials said the volunteers were now protected against the coronavirus.

“Their immunity is working well, antibodies are being created, they are protected against the coronavirus,” researcher Svetlana Volchikhina said in a video released by the defence ministry.

Defence Minister Sergei Shoigu told President Vladimir Putin during the height of the epidemic in Russia in late May that military researchers were developing a vaccine with scientists at the Gamaleya Institute in Moscow.

The volunteers were isolated in the Burdenko military hospital in Moscow on June 18 when the trial vaccine was administered and underwent daily check-ups.

The defence ministry reported that “for 28 days after vaccination, the vital signs of the volunteers remained within normal limits”.

“We now know that we are 100 percent protected,” Yury, a member of the army who participated in the tests, said on leaving the hospital.

A second group of participants who were vaccinated on June 23 are currently in isolation in hospital under medical supervision.

The defence ministry has said it expects clinical trials to be fully completed by the end of July.

Russia has recorded the fourth highest number of coronavirus infections in the world with 746,369 cases and nearly 12,000 deaths, health officials said on Wednesday.

Source: https://www.channelstv.com/2020/07/15/covid-19-vaccine-is-tested-and-safe-says-russian-military/amp/?__twitter_impression=true

BBNaija 2020: N85M Prize For Winner Of BBNaija Season 5

With the countdown to the season five premiere of Africa’s popular reality TV show, Big Brother Naija officially on, MultiChoice Nigeria has revealed that this season’s winner will walk away with a whopping N85m grand prize!

The grand prize which includes a N30m cash prize, makes this season’s winnings the biggest since its debut back in 2006 and highest prize for reality TV show on the continent!

Chief Executive Officer, MultiChoice Nigeria, John Ugbe said: “The fifth season of BBNaija marks a major milestone in the reality TV series. We are making this season significant by not only increasing the winnings, but by also implementing other creative and innovative ways to ensure the show lives up to the premium entertainment especially during the current pandemic.”

The breakdown of the grand prize for BBNaija season five includes: a N30m cash prize; a two-bedroom apartment courtesy Revolution Plus; a top of the range SUV from Nigerian automaker, Innoson Motors; a trip to Dublin courtesy Guinness; home appliances courtesy Scanfrost; a trip to Dubai packaged by Travelbeta; a year’s supply of Indomie noodles, Munch it and Colgate toothpaste; a year’s supply of Pepsi, a branded chiller and a trip to watch the UEFA Champions League finale; and a brand new Oppo mobile smartphone.

Meanwhile, MultiChoice will in the coming days reveal other surprises for viewers and fans of the show.

BBNaija season 5 will be broadcast live and 24/7 on DStv channel 198 and GOtv Max and Jolli packages on channel 29. DStv viewers can also follow the drama this season with the DStv Now app on a smartphone, tablet or laptop.

DStv customers who would like to opt out of viewing the show can do so by sending “Smart card number [space] BBOUT” to 30333. While GOtv customers can do same by sending “IUC Number [space] BBOUT” to 30333. Additionally, customers can activate the parental control option on their DStv and GOtv decoders for viewers younger than 18 years.

In order not to miss a moment of the entertainment on BBNaija season 5, fans are encouraged to sign up on DStv today or get GOtv Max or Jolli and download the MyDStv and MyGOtv apps from the app store for more self-service options.

Betway is the Headline sponsor of BBNaija season 5 and the Gold sponsor is Guinness.

Given the prevalence of the COVID-19 pandemic, MultiChoice Nigeria has assured viewers that global best practices, precautions and preventive measures will be followed throughout the show.

Police Commence Recruitment Exercise, Calls For Applications

The Nigerian Police Force has commenced recruitment exercise for new constables.

This was revealed this morning by Police Public Relations Officer, Frank Mba.

He said that, qualified and suitable candidates who feels fitted for the job can apply, those that there ages are within the range of 17 and 25 are eligible to apply.

Mba equally asserted that, such applicabts must have gotten five credits, Mathematics and English inclusive from West African Examination Council, WEAC, General Certificate of Examination, GCE, or National Examination Council, NECO.

The recruitment will be done online through www.policerecruitment.gov. ng, beginning from July 14 to August 25.

"The names of the successful applicants will be published in national dailies on 14th of September 2020. It will be published on other platforms as well." Mba asserted.

The Nigerian Police Force main duties or obligations are to safeguard lives, properties as well as maintenance of law and order so that the society will be safe for all and sundry.

WAEC Examination Period Officially Announced

The Minister of State for Education, Emeka Nwajiuba, has announced that the West African Senior School Certificate Examination (WASSCE) 2020 will hold from August 4 to September 5.

The examination which was earlier scheduled for April this year, was postponed due to the Coronavirus pandemic.

Speaking at the daily press briefing of the Presidential Task Force on COVID19, Nwajiuba said the new dates were ratified after a meeting earlier today, July 6. He also announced that registration for National Examination Council NECO will continue.

From the 4th of August to the 5th of September. Parents please take note. Last week, the chairman of the PTF announced that school facilities will be available for those who want to go into revision classes. As soon as we conclude WAEC, we will take up the NAPTEP and NECO exams.

The idea here is that we have a month from now till . The states who are willing should make their schools available for their children to revise.

We have done the most we can with our representatives at WAEC. We have this afternoon confirmed that the dates allotted for the exams will be from on the 4th of August through to the 5th of September. Local timings will be published.

We are continuing with the registrations for NECO for those who have not concluded'' he said

COVID-19: Wahab Adegbenro Is Dead! Ondo Health Commissioner Dies

There were indications that the Ondo State Commissioner for Health, Dr Wahab Adegbenro, has died of COVID-19 on Thursday.

Members of staff at his Crown Hospital at Oja Oshodi, Akure, the state capital, were seen crying and the neighbours to were lamenting the sudden death of the commissioner.

Governor Oluwarotimi Akeredolu only disclosed his own COVID-19 status via his Twitter handle on Tuesday but was silent on other members of his cabinet who were on admission at the Infectious Disease Hospital (IDH)

Governor Akeredolu Tests Positive For COVID-19

Today I tested positive for #COVID19. All is well. I'm asymptomatic and have been self isolating. Work continues. Your continued prayers over my well being are most appreciated.

https://twitter.com/RotimiAkeredolu/status/1277962024119459840?s=19

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XDgkMk3kda0

FG Lifts Ban On Interstate Travels

The Federal Government has extended the Phase Two of the eased lockdown by four weeks, but partially lifted the ban on interstate movement . Chairman of the Presidential Taskforce PTF on Covid-19 and Secretary to the Government of the Federation SGF, Mr Boss Mustapha disclosed this at a briefing Monday in Abuja.

He said within this extended phase, there will also be a safe re-opening of schools to allow graduating students back to classes, while interstate movements would only take place outside curfew hours.

Announcing the new measures, the SGF said; “I am pleased to inform you that Mr. President has carefully considered the 5th Interim Report of the PTF and has accordingly approved that, with the exception of some modifications to be expatiated upon later, the Phase Two of the eased lockdown be extended by another four weeks with effect from Tuesday, June 30, 2020 through Midnight of Monday, 27 July, 2020.

“Specifically, however, the following measures shall either remain in place or come into effect: Maintaining the current phase of the national response for another four weeks in line with modifications to be expatriated by the National Coordinator;

Permission of movement across State borders only outside curfew hours with effect from 1st July, 2020;

Enforcement of laws around non-pharmaceutical interventions by States, in particular, the use of face masks in public places; Safe re-opening of schools to allow students in graduating classes resume in-person in preparation for examinations and; Safe reopening of domestic aviation services as soon as practicable”.

Source: https://www.nairaland.com/5958905/fg-lifts-ban-interstate-travels