Eta's Information WARE-HOUSE

CALABAR CHRISTMAS CARNIVAL 2011

2012-01-18T07:00:00.003Z

The 2011 Calabar Christmas Festival was without doubt a major success.

However, unlike previous years where I always wrote a lot about the carnival activities, this time around, I would let the few pictures below to speak for themselves. :)

I and Mercy @ d Calabar Christmas Carnival 2011

CLICK BELOW TO

John Egwu, Aniekan Essien and I (Eta Uso Jr)

Since inception over seven (7) years ago, the Calabar Christmas Carnival has been a major tourist delight and has only grown bigger and bigger as thus, the event has now gotten a permanent fixture in the international tourist calendar.

Do not miss out of the 2012 edition. Make it a date; 27th of December every year, right in the serene city of Calabar, Cross River State, Nigeria.

ON PMS @ N97; Lets Move Forward

2012-01-18T06:27:00.000Z

ON PMS @ N97; Lets Move Forward

There is this saying that 'you can't keep doing things the same way and expect a different result'. I think the President has acted like a true leader by heeding to the cries of the people and thereby reverting the pump price downwards by N44 from N141. I know some people might say that the initial N141 was a bait to see the response of the masses and that N97 was the real intended price the Government wanted to tag the price of PMS; however, that's not important.

Whats more important is that the savings from this partial removal of subsidy would enable the President carry out his transformational agenda for the nation. It doesn't matter what the cynics are or might be thinking, what matters is that we should give the President a chance. The better Nigeria we seek is going to be a gradual process and minimal sacrifices as these has to be made. Our paramount aim as the people of this nation should be to pray for our nation and President, that he might be able to fully implement his good-plans for the nation without hindrance and also most importantly, we should not relent in our fight against corruption by ensuring accountability from all our public service holders but in these, lets not forget to check ourselves in our fight against corruption as change can only genuinely start from ourselves.

Ergo, I must state that a peaceful Nigeria cannot be kept by propaganda, it can only be achieved by understanding. On this note, lets understand with the President.

Thank you all.

Ok! Magazine Reality Show To Be Sponsored By imoovtv

2011-12-18T11:08:00.000Z

Ok! Magazine Reality Show To Be Sponsored By imoovtv
OK! Magazine is proud to announce mobile TV service provider imoovtv, as Title Sponsor for its exciting new concept to find a junior editor, aptly called, Top Job. The show will commence early next year and seeks to broaden the minds of young writers who desire that dream job in the prestigious magazine.

Coming soon to the Nigerian market, imoovtv gives you easy access to watch local and international TV content LIVE on your smartphone including news, sports, entertainment, music and inspirational channels. For more information, visit www.imoovtv.com

As title sponsor, imoovtv will be highly involved in all aspects of Top Job! and will be streamed LIVE on their platform, allowing smart phone users keep on top of the show - on the go.

Speaking about the sponsorship, Bassim Haidar, Founder, said, “We are delighted to be part of what promises to be an exciting venture; imoovtv will soon bring ‘Real Mobile TV’ to the Nigerian market and with 16 exciting channel’s to choose from, there is something for everyone. We look forward to airing the show on the imoovtv platform.”

The thirty minute weekly show will air on major television stations all over Africa, the United Kingdom and the United States of America and is expected to run for eight weeks. Each episode will be packaged to highlight the values of the OK! International brand with a Nigerian twist.

Alexander Amosu, CEO of OK! Nigeria, said, “We are delighted to partner with imoovtv on this venture and look forward to a productive business relationship. Uniting with the imoovtv brand means that Top Job reality show will reach out to a wider audience.”

OK! Magazine also has the backing of telecoms giant MTN who recently, announced plans to be the premium sponsors for the launch of Ok! Magazine Nigeria. The new magazine is the latest addition to the 22 editions of OK! Magazine worldwide and is scheduled to launch in Lagos and London in January 2012.

OK! Magazine, owned by the independent publishers, Northern & Shell Worldwide, will be managed by Kamson Luxury Group, owned and operated by famed serial entrepreneur Alexander Amosu. Kamson Luxury Group is an acquisition company formed to launch luxury international brands in Africa and its first acquisition is the OK! Magazine brand.

OK! Magazine in association with MTN to launch in Nigeria

2011-10-19T15:02:00.000+01:00

OK! Magazine in association with MTN to launch in Nigeria

London based celebrity publication, OK! Magazine can now make inroads into the lucrative Nigerian market thanks to a platinum sponsorship by MTN for the launch of a local version, Ok! Nigeria, in a deal guaranteed to place the publication in the league of first choice journals in the country.

As Platinum sponsor, content of OK! Nigeria will also be available exclusively on the MTN network for a year to the entertainment and delight of its over 40 million subscribers, the largest in the country. The deal includes a two staged launch of the magazine in London and Nigeria.

The magazine will be a monthly publication and content will be 60% Nigerian celebrities on a global scale, whilst just 20% of the 60% will be local Nigerian celebrities in Nigeria. The remaining 40% is divided into 30% African American celebrities such as Will Smith and Oprah and the remaining 10% will be the usual celebrities we love to read about such as Paris Hilton and David Beckham.

Speaking on the motivation for sponsoring OK! Nigeria, Kola Oyeyemi, MTNs General Manager Consumer Marketing, says, the telecom giant has come to a stage where it must contribute to the happiness and wellbeing of society.

"Nigerians, like people all over the world, get a certain innate pleasure from prime and entertaining information; the kind of information that helps us better able to deal with societal differences because one has been enlightened about the peculiarities and beauty in our different cultures."

"We are interested in how celebrities and role models live their lives and how the rest of us can learn from their experiences and OK! Nigeria can help in that process". He said.

Alexander Amosu, CEO of OK! Nigeria, said, “We are delighted to partner with MTN on this venture look forward to a rewarding business relationship. Joining forces with MTN means that more people will have access to the magazine on the go and with the click of a button.”

The new magazine is the latest addition to the 22 editions of OK! Magazine worldwide. OK! UK, OK! USA, OK! Dubai and OK! Australia already exists with several others in the works.

For further information, please contact:
Niyi Adebiyi
Niyi.adebiyi@sesema.com

I ATTENDED THE GITEX TECHNOLOGY WEEK 2011 @ THE DUBAI WORLD TRADE CENTRE

2011-10-19T14:48:00.000+01:00

My passion for Information & Communication Technology cannot be overstated, therefore inline with this, I attended the Global Leadership Summit at the Gitex Technology Week 2011 where Hot Topics as stated below were discussed;

Technology Innovation as a Driver for Sustainability & Economic Growth by Chris Dedicoat, President, EMEA, Cisco

New gTLDs: The Future of Online Innovation by Rod Beckstorm, President and CEO, ICANN

The Context for Innovation – unofficial thoughts on tech trends by Giorgio Paolo, IT Strategy Lead IGEM, Accenture

Invisible Computing by Pranav Mistry, Inventor of Six Sense, MIT Media lab

From Science to Implementation: Approaches to Technology Innovation by William H. Salto, Young Global Leader of the World Economic Forum 2011, CEO, InTecur, UK

At the BlackHat Cyber-security Lecture during the 2011 GITEX Technology Week

Me (inset) at the 2011 Gitex Technology Week, Dubai World Trade Center

I (from right) and a colleague ahead of the Global Leadership Conference

more pictures below

Global Leadership Conference / Lectures in progress

Hafsa Hamir, MD, MTech Zambia and I during the evening networking dinner

A business executive from Oman and I during the 2011 Gitex Technology Week in Dubai.

Veniviici.com, Online Retail Store Launches, Offers Customers 20% Discount

2011-10-16T19:43:00.000+01:00

VENIVIICI.COM, ONLINE RETAIL STORE LAUNCHES, OFFERS CUSTOMERS 20% DISCOUNT.

Newly launched, multi-brand online retail store, Veniviici.com is currently offering buyers a 20% discount on any item purchased. The UK-based site owned and run by Nigerians was launched on Nigeria’s Independence Day and is already generating lots of excitement. Veniviici.com is user friendly and secure. Customers are able to browse through the online catalogue, select and add the desired items to a cyber basket and then make payment with their Naira Cards. The website will offer card value added services by recommending the most current trends as dictated by the global fashion industry. “We are thrilled to introduce this fantastic clothing platform created specifically for the African Market and what better country to start in than Nigeria.” Said, Ade Adeyemi, CEO, Veniviici.com.

Veniviici.com was created to bridge the gap between the African markets and International clothing and accessories brands. As the name suggests, Veniviici does hope to conquer the African market by offering the most competitive prices on apparel from well knownInternational Brands.

Foreign brands are already very popular in Nigeria, and consumers are willing to spend to acquire them. Brands such as T.M.Lewin, Marks & Spencer, Polo, Calvin Klein, Dior, Levi's,Nike and Adidas are always in heavy demand so this site could not be launching at a better time. Veniviici.com plans to offer all the popular brands within a short time and Nigerians will be able to purchase these brands for less than they currently get them. The online store works directly with the brands which means customers are guaranteed brand integrity as Veniviici.com is compelled to protect the equity of the labels.

Speaking about internet security and the website, Chief Operating Officer, Ayodeji Edun said, “As a company we have taken on the most stringent approach to ensuring our customers are able to shop securely online. We have ensured the highest levels of privacy and authentication by using Secure Socket Layers. We also do not hold your card details on our site. All our servers have firewalls in place and we run constant checks on transactions that come through.

Parcels will be couriered by DHL and customers will be able to track the purchased items' three day journey online. Veniviici.com ensures that all goods are insured which means that any item lost in transit will be replaced. Before parcels are delivered customers would be requested to show a form of identification and the payment card used. With the advancement of telecommunication services in Nigeria, it is projected that the full benefits of Veniviici.com’s online shopping system will be maximized. Veniviici.com will promote the growth of the Nigerian economy from a cash dependent system to a debit and credit card structure.

Veniviici.com is a UK based accessories and apparel online retail store targeted at African markets.

The President GoodLuck Jonathan Administration: 100 Days of Promising Less and Delivering More

2011-09-09T10:45:00.000+01:00

Highlights of the achievements of the President and his team in a continuing fulfillment of Mr. President's promise to "never let" Nigerians down.

NATIONAL COHESIVENESS:

After his victory at the April polls, President Jonathan was magnanimous in victory, sending emissaries nation-wide to get the buy in from all stake holders in the Nigeria Project. As a result of president Jonathan's commitment to electoral reform, the April Elections were adjudged the freest and fairest elections in Nigeria since the return to civil rule in 1999 as attested to by local and international observers a fact so apparent that all major opposition parties with the exception of one have publicly accepted President Jonathan’s victory.

Reduction in Election Disputes: By close of submission of election petitions it was established they had dropped by almost 80% from the 2007 figures.

RULE OF LAW:

In the last 100 days this administration has obeyed all court judgments and respected the doctrine of Separation of Powers by not interfering in other arms of government.

TRADE & INVESTMENT:

The National Automobile Council established an Automotive Development Fund to provide long term loans to resuscitate the automobile industry and generate jobs.

A machinery is now in place for the establishment of 37 Skills Acquisition Centers nationwide.

Approval for genuine foreign investors to obtain visas at the point of entry to facilitate FDI investments.

Completion of Model Skills Training Centers in Abuja-a collaboration between the Industrial Training Fund and the Institute for Technical Education, Singapore, first of its kind in Nigeria

Establishment of the Nigerian Vehicle Credit Purchase scheme.

Began process of establishing a World Trade & International Business Center in Lagos.

Commencement of the process for backward integration in Sugar & Rice Production to ensure self sufficiency.

Launch of the Campaign Against the Importation of Sub Standard Products.

THE ECONOMY:

Boosted by the overwhelming success of the Amnesty Programme of the current administration, Nigeria's oil production expanded by 20% and she reclaimed her former position as Africa's largest oil exporter which she had hitherto lost to Angola.

Nigeria set a new record by being recognized by OPEC in the month of July as the second largest oil exporter in the cartel second only to Saudi Arabia. It is the first time Nigeria has recorded such a feat.

Inflation rate has been reducing as the administration enforces tighter fiscal policies. In June the Consumer Price Index revealed an inflation rate of 10.2% which dropped to 9.4% in July being the lowest rate in the last four years.

Foreign Reserves Rises by 10% to $34 Billion

Nigeria's GDP growth rate month over month has continued to grow from 6.7% in May to 6.9% in July of 2011.

Nigeria has been declared one of the top three investment destinations of choice in Africa (number 2) by the independent Africa Business Panel in The Netherlands.

INFRASTRUCTURE:

The President approved the pioneer board for the Nigeria Bulk Electricity Trading (NEBT) Plc, in an effort to stabilize power supply by facilitating smooth operations between independent power producers and distribution companies.

Nigeria now generates power at her highest level ever.

The Nigerian Railway Corporation has commenced Mass Transit Train Services in five out of the six geo-political zones with the sixth zone coming on stream before the end of the year.

With the establishment of the NSIA, the President facilitated direct investments into infrastructure with the priority areas being Power and Roads.

The current administration approved funds for the rehabilitation of the East – West road in Nigeria in order to facilitate transportation of goods and services around the country.

The Federal Government also awarded contracts for various road projects across the country whose impact will soon be felt nation wide.

Nigeria launched two satellites in August 2011. These satellites were designed and built by Nigerian Engineers/Scientists in conjunction with British Scientists and will help expand Internet Bandwidth

ACCESS TO JUSTICE:

Setting up of a 12-man Justice Sector Reform Implementation Committee to ensure the implementation of various reform that have been articulated and widen access to justice.

Mr. President assented to several bills to increase access to justice including; The Human Rights Amendment Act, 2011; Legal Aid Amendment Act, 2011; The Evidence Act (which has simplified the process of collating evidence in our legal system)

Ensured compliance with court judgments, especially with regard to payment of judgment debts.

Repatriation of looted funds to the country. The sum of 22.5 million Pounds sterling were recovered from the Isle of Jersey, U.K.

Increased focus on Legislative Advocacy via a host of pending bills designed to enhance the welfare of Nigerians

Freedom of Information Bill. The President signed the FOI Bill, thereby showing his commitment to lifting the veil covering governance and deepening participatory democracy. Already there have been tangible benefits with the first FOI case instituted in court and the recent declassification of hitherto classified information. The framework for compliance of the FOI Act has been prepared by the Office of the AGF for gazetting, after inputs from critical stakeholders.

PRO-YOUTH AND PEOPLE POLICY:

The President introduced the unique policy of intervening in the pricing of kerosene by engaging with the Private Sector and the price reduced within the first 100 days between May and September, 2011.

He also introduced the KeroDirect policy of selling kerosene direct to end users essentially cutting out the bottlenecks in the distribution system. This successful scheme has reduced the artificial scarcity of the product hitherto faced by the Nigerian masses.

A POSITIVE GENDER AGENDA:

President Jonathan took the unique step of proactively reserving 35% of cabinet positions for women. Despite immense pressures, Mr. President held firm and has so far given women 31% slot as far as Ministerial positions are concerned. As a man of his words, when you add female Advisers, Senior Special Assistants and Assistants to be appointed, that figure will certainly rise to 35%. This is more than the recommended gender representation ratio of 30% in the Beijing document. Merit was the yard-stick in filling these slots with President Jonathan appointing only the best.

SECURITY:

Peace has been sustained in the Niger Delta, Militants are in training or engaging in worthwhile ventures.

Drastic reduction in kidnapping in the South East with the implementation of President Jonathan’s order on the establishment of the 14 Brigade of the Nigerian army in Ohafia, Abia state.

Investments in Facilities for an Intelligence-Based Security Approach.

Maritime Safety has been ensured and stabilized in the last 100 days.

PLANNING:

Retreats and workshops were organized for the cabinet to rub minds and enhance synergy within the administration.

To give effect to Mr. President’s statement that improving the economy and creating jobs is of the highest priority to this administration, a 15-man Economic Implementation Team was put in place under the Chairmanship of President Jonathan to include a coordinating minister for the economy, Mrs. Ngozi Okonjo Iweala, two governors including opposition party governor, Peter Obi of Anambra (Honorary Presidential Adviser on Finance) and Governor Murtala Nyako of Adamawa (Honorary Presidential Adviser on Agriculture). Another innovation was the inclusion of the Private sector with the membership of Captains of Industry including Alh. Aliko Dangote, Mr. Atedo Peterside as well as the President of the Nigerian Economic Society.

FOREIGN POLICY:

Nigeria’s foreign policy was reviewed to reflect a “citizen-focused” foreign policy designed in the words of President Jonathan to “accord this vision of defending the dignity of humanity the highest priority" and link foreign policy to domestic policy while placing a greater emphasis on economic diplomacy.

A STRONG TEAM:

Although it took some time principally because of the recesses declared by the Senate (President Jonathan respects the doctrine of Separation of Powers) Mr. President came up with a stellar cabinet.

The cabinet includes tested hands like:

Former Senate President Anyim Pius Anyim

Dr. Ngozi Okonjo Iweala, immediate past Managing Director of the World Bank and former Finance Minister who superintended Nigeria's exit from the Paris and London Club of debtors.

Dr. Olusegun Aganga, a former Managing Director at Goldman Sachs International.

Dr. Akinwunmi Adesina, a former Vice President at the Alliance for Green Revolution in Africa (established by the Rockefeller Foundation and the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation with the goal of bringing a green revolution to Africa).

Prof. Bart Nnaji, a former World Bank consultant and professor of Computer Integrated Manufacturing and Robotics amongst others.

Dr. Mohammed Ali Pate, former Executive Director of the National Primary Health Care Development Agency (NPHCDA); and

Mrs. Omobola Johnson, Former Chair Person and Country Director Accenture Nigeria.

In the history of Nigerian cabinets from pre-independence to date, no cabinet has had the quantum of stellar appointments as President Jonathan has in his first cabinet post election.

It is early days yet, but with such a team armed with a transformational agenda, Nigeria is set to fulfill the potential in the Morgan Stanley report from last July to the effect that Nigeria is set to overtake South Africa's economy as the largest economy in Africa.

Facts of President Goodluck Jonathan's 100 Days in Office!

Nigerians; what do you gain?

2011-08-29T04:02:00.002+01:00

By Eta Uso Jr.

Our nation Nigeria has been through a lot of trying moments this past one (1) year and I am of no illusion that Nigerians are not fed up, neither am I of any illusion that the citizenry do not all seek a better and safer Nigeria but one thing that’s of real concern to me and of which I need answers to, is; 'Nigerians, what do you gain by throwing and dishing out insults at our President?'. Maybe if even one (1) out of 150 million Nigerians can confidently tell me how throwing insults and non-constructive criticisms on the President could offer our Nation any of the positive strides we seek, then maybe I might as well join the band-wagon.

On a second thought, could it be that there is some satisfaction gained when such hate / derogatory words are used on our President? Could the satisfaction be that we would stand to be counted amongst the people that spoke during the trying moments of our nation? Or, could it be that we exhibit such actions as a part of our stress-relieve formula? Whatever, we think we achieve when we throw insults and non-constructive criticisms on our President, I am yet to be find anyone that can attest to any positive gains derived from such acts of which has been the norm for ages past.

President Jonathan may never be a fanciful speech-maker, neither might he ever be that orator that gives us butterflies when he speaks; but till date, I am yet to see where it has been proven that 'fanciful speech-makers make the best leaders' and I am as well yet to see where 'not so fanciful speech-making skills makes one less of a good leader’. It seems it is only in Nigeria where a President is assaulted with all derogatory words because he happened not to say what we all want to hear. Why can't we all stop being petty and stop the throwing of insults and derogatory comments at every slight interval? Or, is there some positive gains derived from such acts that I am yet to uncover?

For ages past, Nigerians have all implemented the 'banter and insensitive approach to issues' using different variants and it has clearly brought us no results. Don't we think it might be high time we try the solution-oriented / constructive criticism based approach? If nothing else, I confidently believe that a solution-oriented / constructive-criticism based approach would definitely put us on the right track for the change we seek rather than the banter and insensitive approach that has proven over time to be a failed stance.

My fellow Nigerians, if there is any good we can offer, it would be to come together in unity of purpose by streamlining our efforts into proffering solutions geared towards ensuring a free and safe Nigeria. Then if and when we criticize, let’s offer constructive criticisms that would rather guide and not the disdain approach of which clearly offers no gains.

May God Bless Nigeria.

Eta Uso Jr.
royaltyuso@etauso.com

Victory Speech by Sen. Eta Uso Jr (Senate Mace & Records Custodian-Elect) of The Peoples' Senate

2011-07-24T23:12:00.001+01:00

‘Today, change has come to the Peoples’ Senate’

It is a huge privilege and of great honour and responsibility in taking up this job.

Today, the Peoples’ Senate has a new Government, a Government that is passionate and obedient to the founding values and objectives of this noble organisation; a Government of passion, patriotic-spirit as well as a Government of results.

The journey from the pre-elections up till this day had not been a smooth ride. At certain moments, the storm seemed so overwhelming but thanks to the Almighty God of who maintained Peace in our minds and hearts and showed us all the signs and proofs that Victory was certain.

We had many distractions along the way but I must state that we cannot have free government without elections; and if we had let the rebellion to force us into foregoing or postponing our election, they would have fairly claimed to have already conquered and ruined us.

On a personal level, I was a victim of severe betrayals in the course of this election. I had many reassurances of support from close associates and supposed allies in the run-up to this election of which turned out to be a well mastered plan that was intended to manipulate and produce an outcome that clearly was not in my best interest and that of this noble Senate.

However, in the spirit of team-work and without taking focus away from the goals and objectives of the Peoples’ Senate, I extend a sincere and genuine hand of friendship to all those who painfully planned and lost their sleep in trying to ensure that this day was not possible; to you all, I say, we are not enemies, but friends. We must not be enemies. Though passion may have strained it must not break our bonds of affection.

To the Ex-Senate Mace & Records Custodian (Senator Izzy – Isimeme Anenih), your service to this noble Senate while you were in office would not be forgotten. The history of this Senate would never be complete without making reference to you. You fought a good fight and never gave up till the end. God bless you.

To my people of The Peoples’ Senate, God bless you all, for today in your midst, I stand here with a crown of Victory because of what you all did on the 16th to 20th of July, 2011. I remember during the pre-election campaigns, in my pre-election manifesto, I made a contract to you all; today, this contract has been signed, sealed and has been set on delivery, lined and woven with flawless execution.

Once again, with malice towards none and with charity for all, in my capacity as the new Senate Mace & Records Custodian, I beacon on all to board this ship of ours. The new Government of the Peoples’ Senate would not and cannot hold your past against you.

Let’s Sail Together. We are moving forward.

Thank you.

God Bless The Peoples’ Senate.

God Bless The Federal Republic of Nigeria.

Sen. Eta Uso Jr.
24th July, 2011.

Business Email Gone Bad

2011-05-25T22:10:00.000+01:00

Below is an email I received yesterday from someone who wanted to offer me some unsolicited form of service. Offering me an unsolicited service was not the issue, but rather, the issue was more with the content of the email that was suppose to convince me to part ways with money in return for the service. Please read the unedited email in quote below and give your comments;

"Well you must have held people says using GTB Naira ATM/MASTER Card to Make Payment Online. that's you can buy digital products via the internet (like laptops, ipods, phones, domain name at godaddy, ebay so long as the merchant have master card logo on their site. and many more...) online with your GTB Naira ATM Master Card and have you products delivers to your address. Here is a simple steps that could get any interested person started. I only demand a token. that is affordable by any individual. N1,000 (One Thousand Naira Only). Interested person should request for account details for payment"

Wikileaks Julian Assange awarded Peace Prize

2011-05-11T06:22:00.000+01:00

Julian Assange (Wikileaks Founder)

WikiLeaks founder Julian Assange was Wednesday awarded the Sydney Peace Foundation's top honour for "exceptional courage in pursuit of human rights", joining the likes of Nelson Mandela and the Dalai Lama.

Assange, an Australian former computer hacker who is fighting extradition from Britain to Sweden over alleged sex crimes, was praised and rewarded with the Sydney Peace Prize's Gold Medal.

Although the Peace Prize is awarded annually by the foundation only three other people in its 14-year history have been awarded the gold award for courage in pursuit of human rights -- the Dalai Lama, Nelson Mandela and Japanese Buddhist leader Daisaku Ikeda.

The foundation paid tribute to Assange's determination to seek greater transparency and accountability from governments around the world, having challenged "centuries old practices of government secrecy".

"By championing people's right to know, WikiLeaks and Julian Assange have created the potential for a new order in journalism and in the free flow of information," said foundation director Stuart Rees.

Assange is the founder of the WikiLeaks whistleblowing website that has published thousands of cables in which US diplomats give their often candid views on world leaders, to Washington's acute embarrassment.

It has also leaked countless secret documents about the wars in Afghanistan and Iraq.

Assange, who was arrested in London at Sweden's request in December, remains on bail pending his challenge in July to a British judge's decision to extradite him over allegations of sexual assault.

Source: Yahoo News

Whats wrong in this picture?

2011-05-06T22:54:00.000+01:00

Whats wrong in this picture?

Look closely and state whats wrong in the picture above. Please do not forget to drop your comments....!

Osama bin Laden shot dead!

2011-05-02T07:01:00.002+01:00

The mastermind of the worst terrorist attack on American soil is dead, U.S. President Barack Obama announced late Sunday night, almost 10 years after the attacks that killed almost 3,000 people.

Osama bin Laden -- the longtime leader of al Qaeda -- was killed by U.S. forces in a mansion outside the Pakistani capital of Islamabad along with other family members, a senior U.S. official told CNN.

In an address to the nation late Sunday night, Obama called bin Laden's death "the most significant achievement to date in our nation's effort to defeat al Qaeda."

"Today, at my direction, the United States launched a targeted operation against that compound in Abbottabad, Pakistan," Obama said. "A small team of Americans carried out the operation with extraordinary courage and capability. No Americans were harmed. They took care to avoid civilian casualties. After a firefight, they killed Osama bin Laden and took custody of his body."

U.S. diplomatic facilities around the world were placed on high alert following the announcement of bin Laden's death, a senior U.S. official said, and the U.S. State Department should be sending out a new "worldwide caution" for Americans shortly. Some fear al Qaeda supporters may try to retaliate against U.S. citizens or U.S. institutions.

In the President's speech, he reiterated that the United States is not at war with Islam.

"I've made clear, just as President Bush did shortly after 9/11, that our war is not against Islam. Bin Laden was not a Muslim leader; he was a mass murderer of Muslims."

The Council on American-Islamic Relations (CAIR), a Muslim civil rights and advocacy organization, released a statement Monday morning welcoming the death of bin Laden.

How U.S. forces killed Osama bin Laden

The mission that killed one of the world's most notorious terrorist leaders was carried out by U.S. forces with the cooperation of Pakistan, U.S. President Barack Obama said Sunday night.

Osama bin Laden -- the longtime leader of al Qaeda -- was killed by U.S. forces in a mansion about 100 kilometers, or 62 miles, north of the Pakistani capital of Islamabad along with other family members, a senior U.S. official told CNN.

Members of Pakistan's intelligence service, the ISI, were on site in Abbottabad during the operation, a senior Pakistani intelligence official said.

Bin Laden resisted the assault and was killed in a firefight, senior administration officials said.

The Pakistani intelligence official said he did not know who fired the shot that actually killed the terror mastermind.

U.S. sources including a senior official and a congressional source familiar with the operation said bin Laden was shot in the head.

Three other men were also killed in raid, as was a woman who was being used as a human shield, senior administration officials said.

The U.S. team was at the compound for about 40 minutes, the officials said. There were no casualties on the American side, although a U.S. helicopter crashed during the raid due to mechanical problems. The helicopter was then destroyed for security reasons, senior administration officials said.

A senior administration official told reporters that Obama's administration did not share intelligence gathered beforehand with any other country -- including Pakistan -- for security reasons.

The official said only a small group of people inside the U.S. government knew about this operation ahead of time. Another official said a "small U.S. team" was involved in the operation; but the official would not confirm any U.S. military involvement.

However, a senior defense official said U.S. Navy SEALs were involved.

Source: CNN

Prince William kisses Kate Middleton

2011-04-30T00:00:00.000+01:00


The Royal Kiss between newly married Britain's Prince William (L) and Kate, Duchess of Cambridge

The kiss everyone wanted to see, is here by popular demand.

Goodluck Jonathan (A Citizen’s Perspective)

2011-04-14T07:39:00.001+01:00

By Eta Uso Jr

President Goodluck Jonathan is a man in whom I see humility, passion for a New Nigeria, a man who can stake his life for this nation. I see an independent man, a man whose actions are calculative and a man devoid of ethnic and religious bias.

Some people may want to argue and dispute the aspect of his being an independent man, I would not join issues with them but I would advise they go seek privilege information and they would see in black and white that the man of President Goodluck Jonathan takes no flimsy instructions from no one but he is one who would always take a stance geared only towards national unity.

I do not want to list his numerous achievements in this note; as such, I did not do any research before doing this write-up as I am strictly just on how I perceive the man of President Goodluck Jonathan.

With a fresh four years in office, I perceive a stronger President Jonathan. I see a man who would be totally loyal to the people and not distracted by those who claim to be stakeholders in his successful emergence from Vice President to President. I envision a President in the man of Goodluck Jonathan who would refuse to be dragged into settling unqualified political loyalist with sensitive positions in the Government of Nigeria. I see a man who would improve on his success at ensuring a generally free and fair 2011 elections and would even do more to perfect the process in time for the 2015 elections and even after. I see a man who clearly believes that every Nigerian deserves a good life and not just a selected few.

My eye sees so deeply into this man, so much that if I were to put all on paper, I would never stop writing.

With all sincerity, I assuredly say that for those who seek a New Nigeria, the man of President Goodluck Jonathan is an embodiment of the New Nigeria that we seek.

For those who may refuse to see clearly as I have seen, I have just an advice; “Seek Inner Truth”, for to understand a man’s intentions and capabilities, you would have to know him first; from the inside.

INEC postpones Senate and House of Representative elections

2011-04-02T14:14:00.003+01:00

The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) postpones the Senate and House of Representative elections in Nigeria to the 4th of April, 2011.

In a televised address on the National Television Authority (NTA), the INEC chairman, Mr Jega , blamed the postponement on ‘ unprecedented late arrival of results sheets’. He however apologised to Nigerians for the problems.

Before the postponement was announced, the elections had started Saturday morning with hitches caused by poor logistics, as materials arrived in many polling stations late and could not even get to other areas in the country.

The rescheduled election is for 109 seats in the Senate and 360 seats for the House of Representatives.

*UPDATE > After rising from an emergency meeting with political parties on Sunday 3rd April, 2011, the INEC chairmain Mr. Attahiru Jega confirmed via LIVE national broadcast that the 2011 election has once again been shifted from the earlier postponed date of Monday, 4th April, 2011. The new dates are; National Assembly/Senatorial: 9th, Presidential:16th and Gubernatorial/State Assemblies: 26th. All are in this month of April.

Christ Embassy Calabar Miracle Crusade

2011-04-01T06:40:00.000+01:00

I was at the Christ Embassy Calabar Miracle Crusade; March 25^th, 2011.

Mammoth Crowd

The first Miracle crusade I have ever attended. A great event it was. Although, during the days leading up to the biggest Christian gathering of the year 2011, I never really envisioned being at the event. However, on the 24^th of March, 2011, the eve of the event, my senior brother came around and while discussing, he hinted that he would be attending the event, at that point, although not with 100% certainty, I passed a comment “well, I will join you if you are attending”, and that was it.

The d-day came, the 25^th of March, 2011 and right from the early hours, it was clear that everyone in the city (Calabar) was very enthusiastic about attending the crusade. Later that evening, I received a few calls from friends who were attending and wanted to confirm if I will also be attending. All same, as I had already conditioned my mind on the eve of the d-day to join my brother to the event if he was attending, it did not take much for me to make up my mind to finally attend.

The event started by 7pm but my brother earlier called and said he would be going to the stadium by 10pm. At 10pm, we drove down to the stadium and as usual with such big events, we took few minutes to get a parking space as the car parks and the roads around the stadium were occupied with cars.

Cross-Section of the crowd.

Finally, we got into the stadium, took a seat in the open-stand section of the stadium and joined in the praise and worship. Lest I forget, the choir was great but the praise took another higher level when the talented likes of Buchi, Samsong (the Bianule crooner) and some other top Christ Embassy music impresarios’ took to the stage.

After the praise and worship came the preaching / ministering by Pastor Marcel Obode. It was a place to be. The atmosphere was electrifying.

I left the stadium at 2:30am on the 26^th of March, 2011 although the event had not yet been concluded.

At the end, it was worth it!

JESUS LIVES!!!

AM BACK!

2011-03-30T21:59:00.000+01:00

Trust me, am back!

It has been exactly 10 months ago since I last posted a status on Facebook. Within this span of the last 10 months, my general active participation on social platforms such as My Blog, Facebook and Blackberry Messenger also noticed a sharp decrease by over 80%.

Am sure you want to ask where I left to and what took me away, am also sure some people would want to ask why 10 months?, with regards to the fact that they might be wondering if there is something peculiar about the number ‘10’. Some in their good sense of humour would ask why I did not just make it 12 months at once. Some would also want to ask, why am I back at this crucial time of the year? Trust me, minds would be wandering, but it is all good.

The beauty of this is that, I was away for a purpose and re-assuredly I can tell you, I ACHIEVED IT, all thanks to the almighty God.

Now, am back on full cylinders, all wheel drive and ready to take on from a new level.

You might still want to ask what took me away, trust me; you would not need to bother. At least one thing I can tell you with confidence is that my absence was ‘Justified’ and mission was ‘Accomplished’.

From me to you.....take this.... Recognise Am Back!

Sincerely Yours,

Eta Uso (Jr)

Email: royaltyuso@etauso.com

Twitter: @royaltyuso

The Peoples' Senate host the first ever Youth Presidential Debate in Nigeria

2011-03-07T20:50:00.001Z

The People’s Senate, a new Nigerian youth organization, has concluded plans to host Nigeria’s first ever youth presidential debate on March 13, 2011 at the Sheraton Hotels and Towers in the Federal Capital city of Abuja. The Peoples’ Senate is an organization founded in the month of March 2010 with a view to mobilizing the Nigerian youth for mass participation and contribution towards building the nation of their collective dream.

The People’s Senate is positioned to be Nigeria’s authentic youth group focused on youth empowerment and keen participation in the socio-political space of the Nigerian nation. Established with a vision “to build a truly politically conscious and informed Nigeria where everyone is a guardian of our democracy, development and national identity”. The objective of The People’s Senate is to, amongst other things; build the largest movement of youths and women ever seen in the world under one umbrella to participate in politics and nation building, position the members of the Peoples’ Senate to influence the outcome of any election based on collective will and informed choices in the greater interest of the ordinary Nigerian, position a new set of competent, passionate and inspired youths and women for elective offices, position the Nigerian youth and women for global competitiveness, leadership and responsibility.

Distinguished Ladies and Gentlemen, I gladly wish to inform you about the upcoming first Nigerian Youths Presidential Debate. The idea is to the bring the Youth leaders of the Presidential Campaign organizations of the different candidates to debate the issues that form their campaign. This event will hold on the 13th of March, 2011 at the Sheraton Hotel, Abuja.

The essence of the debate is to showcase the intelligence of the Nigerian youths as regards their understanding of the political and economic issues of Nigeria. This is imperative because TPS (The People's Senate) is an organization that prepares youths for positions of leadership and also at all times tries to show the nation the untapped jewel in the mind of an average Nigerian youth. A debate of this type is surely the first of its kind and it will probably be the closest to a Presidential debate ahead of the April presidential election. We believe every senator in TPS has a role to play in this event. Below is a brief of the event;

The Peoples Senate Presidential Screening Debate
I. Purpose: To let Nigerians understand the position of the youth in politics and nation building.
II. Invited Guests : Youth leaders of all the Presidential campaign organizations.
III. Issues for debate: Presidential manifesto and blue print as prepared by the Senate Leader and approved by the PSGC (Peoples’ Senate Governing Council).

The People’s Senate cordially invites Civil Society Groups, Professional Associations & interested Individuals to the 1st ever Youth Presidential Debate in Nigeria coming up @ Sheraton Hotels FCT-Abuja on 13th of March 2011. To get an Invitation, send your email address & name to 08033771132, 08035964527 or 08033116403 for Abuja residents and 08026221202 for Lagos residents and other states. On Blackberry (Abuja) 233c069d, 2143dcf4, (Lagos and other states) 25edc807.

Signed
Senator Eta Uso Jr
Chairman Sensitization Committee
For The Peoples’ Senate

Facebook: www.facebook.com/thepeoplessenateng
Twitter: www.twitter.com/thepeoplesenate

Inec's Voters Registration: My Personal Experience

2011-02-02T21:33:00.000Z

I finally got registered today, the 2nd of February, 2011 at a primary school not far from where I live.

I got out of the house at 10:30am just after getting set for my daily activities. I got to the registration point at about 10:35am. Fortunately, everyone in my area seemed to have registered before the 29th of January, 2011 which was the initial date the voters’ registration exercise was to end.

Therefore, as I got to the registration desk, there was no-one except for the INEC staff on duty. We exchanged greetings and I told her I came to register. She then put on the UPS (Uninterrupted Power Supply) and laptop computer, then she logged in and everything was set. I was asked to squat in-front of the camera for my face-capture as there was no chair. However, my face was captured and then my 10 (ten) fingerprints were also captured without any hassles except for my index left-finger which had to be thumb-printed twice before the machine accepted it.

In all, the whole registration period from the time my face was captured till the whole process was completed took less than 3 (three) minutes. Nonetheless, my card was not printed immediately as I was asked to return later for it as the lady in charge said she had issues with the printer.

Finally, the process was done and I am now ready to cast my vote in favour of selfless leaders at the April 2011 elections.

Ensure you ‘Register to Vote’.

Cheers.

Do We Need Dele Momodu?

2011-01-29T18:56:00.000Z

Sincerely speaking, Dele Momodu is a man I never gave a chance up till 48 hours ago where while laying on my bed, I just got this conviction of a selfless man, a true Nigerian, a man who has given hope to the hopeless in this nation and abroad, a man who grew his empire from scratch and touched many lives through it, a man who didn’t need Government funds to live the good life, a man who has worked for every kobo he has earned and spent.

Many people have refused to see him beyond a lifestyle guru, a name he earned out of selfless service to his job of which without any doubt, I know he could always replicate such success in any area of life he sets his mind on.

Nigeria must Change and that Change is within us.

Look Deep!!!

Calabar Christmas Adult's Carnival 2010

2010-12-28T16:39:00.001Z

I could not be anywhere else!!!

The 2010 Calabar Christmas Adult Carnival was as usual, the best and biggest street Party / Carnival. You could not afford to be anywhere else.

The Calabar Christmas Adult Carnival is an international event that occurs on the 27th of december each year and as usual, its always a blast.

Every year, the crowd that comes out to watch the carnival keeps growing at a tremendous pace and all accomodations in the city are always fully occupied.

Also, for the first time ever, the Calabar Christmas Carnival also witnessed a live street fashion show of which I saw live but I just somehow did not take pictures of it.

Although, while every year's carnival is always bigger than the previous, I did something unusual this year.

Can you guess?

I actually did not watch most part of the carnival although I was at the centre of it. The reason was that, just as previous years, the carnival always brings in massive crowds from all works of life and this year's edition was no exception, but unlike previous years where I took active part in the carnival by watching and taking pictures, this years carnival was actually an exception. I spent most of the time, networking with the limitless beautiful people that where around whilst just 1-metre away from me, the beautiful carnival trains kept passing, dancing and displaying their beautiful costumes to the delight of all the spectators.

Below are few pictures I took at the fast-food thats located just 1-metre away from the Carnival route.

From Left: Eta Royalty Uso, Aniekan Essien, Raphael Njar.

Mercy Isoyip, Eta Uso

From left: Monta Ebong and Monye Akpet

Calabar Christmas Children's Carnival 2010

2010-12-28T15:16:00.002Z

I was There!!!

The 2010 Calabar Christmas Carnival (Children's Category) was a blast.

The Children's Carnival is an International yearly event that occurs on the 26th of December every year and it is always a show-stopper.

The best part of this is that, my presence at this year's (2010) children's carnival was actually my first time in attendance.

Like previous years, I always preferred staying away from the children's carnival and stay back to prepare myself for the Adult Carnival that takes place on the 27th but this time around, I had no choice, I had to attend the children's carnival as I had a very good friend of mine who came in from Abuja and wanted to attend both the children's and adult's category.

From Left: Eta Royalty Uso and Abdulkareem Ibrahim

It was my first experience and just as the previous years editions that I had always been briefed about / watched on tv, this year's edition was also worth its weight in gold.

Click Below To see the Full Article + Pictures

As usual, the carnival is never devoid of influntial personalities from all works of life, to mention but a few, we had the Governor of Rivers State; Gov. Rotimi Ameachi, The CBN Governor, Mr. Lamido Sanusi and the Governor of the Cross River State (Host State); Gov. Liyel Imoke, all in attendance plus lots of other top dignitaries too many to mention.

Inset: Starting from the 4th seat from the left is; (Gov. Ameachi, Gov. Imoke and the CBN Governor)

At the end, in my word's as my first time ever at the Calabar Christmas Children's Carnival, I will say; It was worth it!

Reinvigoration

2010-12-12T22:04:00.002Z

A lot of background reinvigoration is going on as regards etauso.com

See you soon!!!

Russia and Qatar To Host 2018 and 2022 World Cup

2010-12-03T05:44:00.000Z

The world’s biggest sporting event continued its spread to new corners of the globe Thursday as Russia and Qatar were named as hosts of the 2018 and 2022 World Cup soccer tournaments.

The fallout from the announcements in Zurich included a setback in soccer development for the United States, which lost its attempt to host the 2022 World Cup despite having an apparently superior technical bid. That tournament was awarded instead to Qatar, the tiny oil-rich nation in the Persian Gulf, meaning the World Cup will make its inaugural appearance in the Middle East.

“We go to new lands,” Sepp Blatter, the president of FIFA, the sport’s world governing body, told Reuters. “Never has the World Cup been in Russia and Eastern Europe, and the Middle East and Arabic world has been waiting for a long time. So I’m a happy president when we talk about the development of football.”

FIFA is an insular body, frequently criticized for its lack of transparency. Thursday’s votes by FIFA’s executive committee were conducted in secret. It was impossible to discern fully the motives of Blatter and his colleagues.

Some soccer officials believe Blatter is angling for a Nobel Peace Prize, having now orchestrated the awarding of the World Cup to South Africa in 2010, and soon to Russia and the Middle East, even if his chances of winning such an award might seem remote.

Surely, Thursday’s votes reflected in part some murky internal FIFA politics. No doubt, too, Blatter has some sincere interest in taking his sport’s grandest spectacle to all parts of the world.

The votes came amid recent news media accusations of corruption involving 6 of the 24 members of FIFA’s executive committee. Two were barred from voting. Some observers called for a delay in the votes, saying their legitimacy had been compromised by accusations of vote selling.

American soccer officials had hoped to prevail with a bid that promoted the country’s diversity, the potential for record attendance and record profits for FIFA, and the fact that all stadiums and necessary infrastructure were already built.

But perhaps FIFA officials felt they had sufficiently assisted the United States by giving it the 1994 World Cup.

And some observers felt that American bid officials lacked passion in explaining how a second World Cup would expand the game in the United States, which has not fully embraced the sport. FIFA had also expressed some concerns about a lack of federal government guarantees, one apparently having to do with its tax liability in the United States.

Russia proposed to host the tournament in 13 cities grouped in four clusters. And Putin has said that visitors will not need travel visas. Match tickets will apparently serve as visas, as they did when the 2008 Champions League final was held in Moscow.

Mercury Makes Birds Gay: Study

2010-12-01T21:06:00.000Z

Mercury poisoning could wipe out birds - by making them gay, say scientists.

A three-year study of 120 white ibises found more than half of males exposed to high levels of the chemical chose to pair off amongst themselves instead of with females.

Males dosed up with methylmercury, the organic and most toxic form of mercury, showed reduced rates of traditional courtship behaviour. Even relatively low levels of mercury in the diet of male white ibises cause the birds to mate with each other rather than with females.

As a result many of the females can't breed, and fewer chicks are produced.

Dr Peter Frederick, of the University of Florida, warned that gay coupling could result in a 50 per cent reduction in chicks. He said: 'These effects on reproductive behaviour and sexual preference represent a novel mechanism by which contaminants may influence wild bird populations.'

Mercury is a naturally occurring metal released into the environment from rocks and soils, and in volcanic eruptions. But human activities are continually adding more. Dr Frederick's team, whose findings are published in Proceedings of the Royal Society B, said methyl mercury is known to affect sex hormones of many animals but it is unclear whether bird populations may be affected.

They said: 'Male - male pairing contributed a large proportion of the reproductive deficits documented in this study, yet to our knowledge, this mechanism has not been reported as an effect of mercury exposure or of other contaminants. Homosexual behaviour among birds and other animals has been documented before but usually when there is a shortage of female birds in the local population.

But in this study, the researchers found that the homosexual pairing began when there were still plenty of potential female birds available. The paper says: 'In a wild colony of white ibises with minimal exposure to mercury, there were no male - male pairings observed in 134 white ibis pairs studied over 15,580 pair hours of observation during four breeding seasons.'

It is unknown whether mercury could have the same effect on humans. White ibises are long-legged, long-necked wading birds with short tails that nest in huge colonies in fresh water marshes or along the ocean coast.

Up to 80,000 individuals have been counted in one colony in the Everglades National Park, Florida. During the day they may fly at least 15 miles to find small crustaceans, fish, frogs and aquatic insects to eat and to feed their young.

The researchers said sexual display behaviour in birds is strongly influenced by circulating hormones and mercury exposure was associated with 'a de-masculinised pattern of oestradiol and testosterone expression in males, especially during courtship'.

Courtesy: DailyMail

Lil' Kim And Nicki Minaj's Feud Hots Up

2010-11-28T22:23:00.000Z

Nicki Minaj

After months of attacking Nicki Minaj in the press, veteran female rapper Lil' Kim has finally conveyed her animosity toward the newcomer in a new diss track called "Black Friday." Cleverly named after and released on the biggest retail shopping day of the year, "Black Friday" is also a play on the title of Nicki's "Pink Friday" debut.

Lil' Kim accuses Nicki of adopting her persona. On the track that borrows the music bed from Pharoahe Monch's "Simon Says," Kim raps, "You a Lil' Kim wannabe/You just hate to admit it."

Lil Kim

The former "Dancing With The Stars" contestant refers to Nicki and her manager Sean "Diddy" Combs, ironically Kim's old business partner, as "swagger jackers."

"I've seen them come/I've seen them go/Still I remain Sweetie/You going on your 14th minute of fame," she adds in the song.

Kim also warns that she's going to turn "'Pink Friday' into 'Friday The 13th.'"

Last Friday, Nicki opened up about the ongoing feud during an interview with Angie Martinez on New York's Hot 97. Minaj, who dismisses Lil' Kim a "has been" on the song "Roman's Revenge," told Martinez that she admits to being influenced by Kim. "I respect you. I love you. I've said it in every interview time and time again," Nicki said about Kim. "And if that's not good enough for you, mama, there's something deep rooted in you. ... That's your insecurity bothering you. It's not Nicki Minaj."

Nicki was surprised by Kim's accusations that she had not paid proper homage. "It hurt my feelings," Nicki said. She spoke to Kim about any hard feelings when the two saw each other at a concert.

"I stopped her and said, ‘I want to make sure everything is cool with us," Nicki told Martinez. According to Nicki, Kim said everything was fine.

As the tension escalated, Nicki recorded the "Roman's Revenge" song, which features guest vocals from Eminem and appears on "Pink Friday."

On the song, Nicki accuses Lil' Kim of being jealous of her success. "You out of work/I know it's tough/But enough is enough," she raps.

The hype will no doubt help increase "Pink Friday"'s first week sales numbers.

Courtesy: YahooNews

Could Lagos Be Running Out Of Space?

2010-11-28T07:11:00.000Z

Could Lagos State, Nigeria be running out of space?

Banking Fraud: Nepalese, Nigerian Among Three Arrested

2010-11-28T07:00:00.000Z

New Delhi, Two foreigners and their Indian accomplice were arrested in south Delhi for allegedly hacking into internet bank accounts of people and buying gadgets like laptops, police said today.

Investigators suspect that many gangs of international hackers are involved in similar crime in the country. The gangs operate from Mumbai and Bangalore and make calls to the targets on the pretext of changing their bank mandates.

The arrested have been identified Praveen Gupta (27), a Nepali national, Promise Eke (27), a Nigerian, and Tashi Wang Chuk (21) hailing from Sikkim, DCP (South) H G S Dhaliwal said.

Eight laptops, ten digital cameras and 17 Blackberry mobiles, worth Rs ten lakh, were recovered from them, he said.

The arrests came following a probe on money being fraudulently withdrawn from three ICICI Bank accounts, the DCP said.

*PressTrustOfIndia

Dubai To Have World's Tallest Residential Tower

2010-11-28T06:49:00.000Z

The 107-storey tower, billed to be the tallest residential building on earth, is likely to be ready by late next year in the city that is also home to the 823 metres wonder Burj Khalifa.

The 414-metre tall Princess Tower in the city's high-profile Dubai Marina will be ready for delivery by fourth quarter of 2011, its constructor has said.

According to Council on Tall Buildings and Urban Habitat, Q1, located on the Gold Coast of Australia, is currently the tallest residential building in the world, standing 323-metre high with 78 floors.

A report in Emirates 24|7 said that besides the Princess Tower, the 91-storey Elite Residence in Dubai Marina will also be completed and ready for handover in the same quarter of next year, claims Tameer Holding, the developer behind the two towers.

"We are planning the handover of the 414-meter PrincessTower (763 units) and 381-metre Elite Residence (696 units) in Dubai Marina, and Imperial Residence (510 units) in Jumeirah Village South by the fourth quarter of 2011," company President Federico Tauber said.

Courtesy: *PressTrustOfIndia

Wande Coal Now To Perform At MTV Africa Music Awards (MAMA 2010)

2010-11-26T07:03:00.000Z

Wande Coal is a multi-talented music artiste from Nigeria

As leading mobile operator in Nigeria, Airtel and MTV begins the countdown to the 2010 MTV Africa Music Awards (MAMA) with Airtel, four more awesome artists have been added to the performer roster for Africa’s most exciting music event.

USA hip hop star Rick Ross, Kenya’s P-Unit, South Africa’s Jozi and Nigeria’s Wande Coal will join previously announced performers DJ Arafat (Ivory Coast), 2FACE (Nigeria), Daddy Owen (Kenya), Banky W (Nigeria), Fally Ipupa (DRC), Teargas (South Africa) and Cabo Snoop (Angola).

Donald Trump For President of The United States of America?

2010-11-26T06:45:00.000Z

Donald John Trump is an American business magnate, socialite, author and television personality.

DONALD Trump wants to be President of the United States!

Speaking to American tabloid the National Enquirer, the real estate mogul says he’s keen to run for office.

“America is being laughed at by the rest of the world — and things must change before it’s too late!” he said.

“It’s not something I want to do. In fact, I wish that I saw someone else on the horizon, but there’s no one else!”

“Yes, I would look to spend my own money,” he added. “If you’re not prepared to do that, then you’re not prepared to run for office!

“I question whether Sarah Palin is electable, and whether she has a big enough following to get 50 percent of the vote.

“When Ronald Reagan was president, the United States was respected — but not anymore.

“Today Americans feel as if we’re the whipping post for other countries. We will not be a great country in the not too distant future if we don’t change our ways!”

Courtsey: ShowBizSpy

Jose Mourinho's Real Madrid Under UEFA Investigation

2010-11-26T06:32:00.000Z

Real Madrid coach Jose Mourinho faces allegations from UEFA that he asked players to intentionally receive red cards.

UEFA charged Real Madrid coach Jose Mourinho with "unsporting conduct" on Thursday over allegations he ordered two players to get themselves sent off in a Champions League match.

UEFA's disciplinary committee will investigate Mourinho as well as players Xabi Alonso, Sergio Ramos, Iker Casillas and Jerzy Dudek. Their cases will be heard on Nov. 30.

Mourinho appeared to send instructions from the bench before Alonso and Ramos received second yellow cards for time-wasting late in Tuesday's 4-0 win against Ajax in Amsterdam.

Their expulsions meant they should serve one-match suspensions in a meaningless group match against Auxerre next month, then start the knockout rounds in February with a clean slate.

Madrid released a statement later Thursday on its website expressing its "surprise" at the decision.

On Tuesday, Mourinho dismissed the idea that he had orchestrated the bookings.

"I spoke with many players throughout the game, not only with Ramos and Alonso," Mourinho said after the match. "Stories sell, but the important thing is the 4-0 win and the fantastic game we had. Let's talk about that and not other things."

Mourinho has previously clashed with UEFA after incidents in the Champions League when he coached Chelsea. UEFA banned Mourinho from the touchline for two matches in 2005 after he accused Barcelona coach Frank Rijkaard of visiting Swedish referee Anders Frisk at halftime in the first leg of a round-of-16 clash.

Mourinho is in his first season with Madrid and aims to become the first coach to lead three different clubs to the European title. He guided FC Porto to the 2004 title, and Inter Milan last season.

National Council Of State Endorse N18,000 Minimum Wage

2010-11-26T06:03:00.000Z

Nigerian President Goodluck Jonathan will send a bill to parliament more than doubling the minimum wage, meeting union demands after a nationwide strike this month, a senior advisory council said on Thursday.

The main labor unions in Africa's most populous nation launched a brief warning strike two weeks ago to push demands for a big increase in the monthly minimum wage to 18,000 naira ($120) from 7,500 naira.

The strike, which shut banks, schools and parts of the transport system, was suspended on the first day to give the government more time, but the unions threatened further action if their demands were not met.

The council of state -- which includes Jonathan, former presidents, state governors, the central bank governor and key ministers -- said it had agreed that Jonathan should send the bill for approval after "extensive deliberations."

"This puts to rest the labor problem between the federal government and the Nigerian Labour Congress (main union)," Gombe state governor Danjuma Goje told reporters in the capital Abuja after the council meeting.

Widespread industrial action has been rare in the past few years in Nigeria and previous walkouts tended to last only a day or two, in a country where much of the population get by on $2 a day or less and can ill afford to stop work.

The NLC and its sister union the Trade Union Congress represent members across most sectors of sub-Saharan Africa's second-biggest economy and prolonged industrial action has the potential to bring the country to a halt.

The Nigeria Music Video Awards (NMVA) 2010

2010-11-25T06:37:00.000Z

Soundcity Awards was here, now its The Nigerian Video Music Awards 2010.

What are your expectations? Will you be there?

Vatican: Condom Use Is Lesser Evil Than Spreading of HIV

2010-11-24T07:19:00.000Z

VATICAN CITY – In a seismic shift on one of the most profound — and profoundly contentious — Roman Catholic teachings, the Vatican said Tuesday that condoms are the lesser of two evils when used to curb the spread of AIDS, even if their use prevents a pregnancy.

Full article; Click Here

2011: Nigerian Elections To Begin April 2

2010-11-24T05:41:00.001Z

Ahead of the amendment to the 2010 Electoral Act, the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) yesterday rolled out a fresh time table and schedule of activities for staggered 2011 elections begining with the National Assembly elections on April 2, 2011. The Presidential election now holds on April 9 while the Governorship and State Assembly elections have been scheduled for April 16, 2011.

Announcing the new election time table at the Commission’s headquarters in Abuja last night, INaaEC Chairman, Attahiru Jega said the new time table superseded the one earlier released on September 7, but had to be discarded due to loss of time.

Sounding a note of warning that the Commission would not tolerate any infraction of the rules and regulations guiding the election at a press conference attended by National Commissioners of the Commission, Professor Jega disclosed that the political parties were free to start their campaigns from December 1, 2010. Registration of Voters will be carried put between January 15 and 29, 2011. Citing relevant sections of the expected Electoral Act amendment, the INEC boss said all the arrangements are in tandem with the provisions of the 1999 Constitution and the anticipated amendments to the Electoral Act.

In the 26-item programme of electoral activities, the Voter’s Registration exercise begins on January 15, 2011 and ends on the 29th.. The first electoral activity begins with the issuance of notice of election on January 23, and the commencement of conduct of party primaries running through January 26 to 30th, 2011

The political parties, Jega said could embark on campaigns in public places as from December 1 and end the campaigns 24 hours to the day of each election. Registration of voters which has been scheduled for January 15 will end on January 29 with the display of Voter’s Register for claims and objections coming up between February 3 and 8, 2011.

The last day for the withdrawal by candidates and substitution of withdrawn candidates by political parties will run from February 14, for National Assembly candidate, February 21, for Presidential candidate and February 28 for Governorship and State Assembly candidates.

INEC will publish the final official Voter’s Register for elections on March 2, 2011.

Collection of nomination forms is between February 7 and 10, 2011 while the publication of nominated candidates will run from March 2 to 16, 2011.

Run offs for governorship and Presidential eolections, if any, will be held within seven days after the announcement of the results of the respective elections in line with sections 179 (4) (5) and 134 (4) (5) respectively of the Constitution..

*Courtsey SunNewsOnline

Atiku Abubakar is Northern Presidential Candidate

2010-11-22T20:50:00.000Z

AFTER months of permutations, speculations and political intrigues, the Mallam Adamu Ciroma led ‘’17-wise men’’ to get a consensus candidate for the north finally came up with former Vice President Atiku Abubakar as the ‘’anointed aspirant.

Briefing Journalists Monday at the Yar’adua Centre, Secretary to the Consensus Committee, Mallam Abdulkadir Sabo Bello reiterated the north’s position on zoning and completing the four year tenure of late President Umaru Yar’Adua.

With the announcement of Atiku Abubakar as the northern candidate, he would then wrestle with President Goodluck Jonathan at the primaries for the ticket of the Peoples Democratic Party, PDP.

"I am humbled by this endorsement, and I accept it wholeheartedly, with humility and sense of responsibility.

I commend the Consensus Committee for this endorsement and for their sacrifice, their patriotism, their commitment and their integrity. They have made an important contribution to the unity and stability of this country.

I am profoundly grateful to the other aspirants who were screened by the Consensus Committee for their commitment to the consensus process. All three of them, former President Ibrahim Babangida, former National Security Adviser, General Mohamed Aliyu Gusau, and Governor Bukola Saraki of Kwara State, are eminently qualified for the office of President. Their decision to abide by the decision of the Consensus Committee is a further testimony to their patriotism, honour, service and selflessness. Nigerians will forever remain grateful to them for their contribution to the peace, unity and stability of this country. I will continue to count on their support in the campaign to win the PDP primaries and the 2011 Presidential election.

I commend Nigerians for their patience, understanding, support and prayers. I shall need the support of all as I seek the mandate to be the flag-bearer of the PDP in the 2011 Presidential election.

This is a time for sober reflection on the challenges facing our country and the immense opportunities that exist for us to address them. I hope that the conclusion of this consensus process will mark an end to the divisive politics which our opponents have been promoting. In the days ahead I shall be addressing the press, and will continue to unfold my agenda for providing good governance and building a new Nigeria for all Nigerians irrespective of their ethnic, religious or sectarian affiliations. With your support and prayers we shall make good things happen."

In a statement issued after the exercise today , Atiku Abubakar commended members of the committee for their patriotism and sacrifice saying their decision was a product of wide consultation across the length and breadth of the country.

Tiger Woods Joins Twitter Amidst Bad PR News

2010-11-22T07:22:00.000Z

Critics can't just have enough of this guy, as they continue to harp that its all the same with Tiger Woods, trying to appear sincere when he really is not. Some are even going as far as to call Tiger a "fraud," and waiting for the next "cutesy" Nike ad to "enlighten us even further." (sarcasm is indeed prevalent in that last statement)

The downfall in Tiger Woods image has been further complicated by the downfall in his game this season, and it's been a drastic one for an athlete many compared as the Michael Jordan of golf. He didn't win all year for the first time ever.

This quote could be the most telling of them all:

"The single worst thing that ever could happen to Tiger Woods may be happening," said Michael Kempner, President of MWW Group public relations in East Rutherford, N.J. "He has gone from being immortal to being extraordinarily mortal."

Famous (or in-famous) golfer has been bitten by the tweeting bird and has officially joined Twitter today. The account @TigerWoods is verified and is gaining bucket loads of followers by the hour.

Sound City Music Video Awards (SMVA) 2010 Winners

2010-11-21T23:01:00.000Z

1. Best Male Video (Banky W) – Strong Ting – Nigeria

2. Best Female Video (Goldie) – You Know It – Nigeria

3. Best Choreography (Dama Do Bling) – Moza Girl – Mozambique

4. Best Special Effects (Djinee) – Overkillin’ – Nigeria

5. Best Editing (P Square) – Danger – Nigeria

6. Best Duo Or Group Video (Deep Level) – We Run The City – South

Africa

7. Best Cinematography (Teargas) – Mhlobo Wami – South Africa

8. Best Hip Hop Video (Jozi) – Wild Life – South Africa

9. Best R & B Vide0 (Mike Anyasodo) – Fine Fine Lady – Nigeria

10. Best Pop Video (2Face Idibia) – Implication – Nigeria

11. Best Collaboration In A Music Video (Sarkodie Feat. Sway & Jayso) –

Lay away – Ghana

12. Discovery Of The Year (JR) – Show Dem – South Africa

13. Best Video (Voting) (Banky W) – Strong Ting – Nigeria

14. Viewers Choice (Voting) (Buffalo Souljah) – Ezandlha Phezulu –

Zimbabwe

15. Hit Producer Of The Year (As Used In A Music Video) (Sossick/Da

Grin) – Pon Pon Pon – Nigeria

15. Best Western (2Face Idibia) – Nigeria

16. Best Southern (PRO) – South Africa

17. Best Eastern (Wyre) – Kenya

18. Best Central (Fally Ipupa) – DR Congo

19. Soundcity Fresh Video (Tania Tome) – Nhi Ngugu Haladza –

Mozambique

Zain Nigeria Now Officially Airtel

2010-11-21T01:10:00.001Z

Zain Nigeria finally and formally changed its brand identity to Airtel. This was after concluding a $10.7 billion transaction in June this year, which gave Indian Bharti Airtel the Zain Group’s Celtel Africa Unit.

The name change, which happened Friday across the country changes the African footprints of Zain to now AirTel . The name change brings to sixth the number of times the company would have to change identity since 2001 it started operations in Nigeria .

In a colourful celebration to herald the new name in Abuja yesterday, Chairman of the company, Mr Sunil Bharti Mittal promised that the company has come to stay.

He also promised that the company would bring innovations that would not allow it dissolve into another company just like the company has done in the past.

According to him, “Bharti began its African journey by promising to deliver world class and affordable mobile services to customers and delighting them with innovative products.

I believe we are taking a major step towards delivering on this by introducing the heart of our business the Airtel brand across our operations in Africa .

“Our African customers would now be able to enjoy the same best in class brand experience as our cuistromers across India , Sri_Lanka and Bangladesh . We remain committed to taking our network deeper into Africa by ensuring our services touch the common man and bridge the digital devide in the continent”

He expressed confidence that in the coming years Airtel will win the heart of customers across Africa and emerge as one of the most admired brands in the continent.

The Passion of The Christ

2010-11-20T00:39:00.000Z

As christmas draws near, we can't but remember our Lord Jesus christ and the priceless gift he paid for our redemption.

I bring you "The Passion of The Christ".

Beyonce’s perfume ad banned

2010-11-20T00:27:00.000Z

British Advertising Standards Authority have ordered Beyonce's perfume ad not to be shown before 7:30 pm. Apparently they think it's really steamy, and duh, of course it is! It's for a sexy fragrance called Heat and Beyoncé is singing "Fever"! What do you expect?

Here's what the ASA told the Guardian in a statement: "Beyoncé’s body movements and the camera’s prolonged focus on shots of her dress slipping away to partially expose her breasts created a sexually provocative ad that was unsuitable to be seen by young children."

What do you think?

Remembering Dream Team Nigeria: Atlanta 96 Olympic Final

2010-11-19T05:51:00.000Z

When will our Super Eagles make us as proud as this Dream-Team did?

Nigerian Becomes Chelsea Fc's Assistant Manager

2010-11-18T21:29:00.000Z

Chelsea have named Nigerian Michael Emenalo as their assistant manager, the Premier League leaders said on Thursday.

The 45-year-old replaces Ray Wilkins as Carlo Ancelotti’s right-hand man. Wilkins left Stamford Bridge last week for undisclosed reasons.

Emenalo joined Chelsea in 2007 and has been working as the club’s Head Opposition Scout.

He represented Nigeria as a defender at the 1994 World Cup and played for clubs including Molenbeek in Belgium, England’s Notts County and San Jose Clash in the United States.

Fifa Bans Two Officials Over Bribe Claims

2010-11-18T21:21:00.000Z

Fifa banned two of its executive committee members from voting to decide the countries that will host the 2018 and 2022 World Cups following an investigation into newspaper allegations of corruption.

Mr Adamu, a Nigerian official, was given a three-year ban from all football-related activity and fined SFr10,000 (£6,260). He was found to be in breach of his fiduciary duties and rules relating to accepting bribes. Mr Temarii, from Tahiti, was banned for one year and fined SFr5,000, having breached his fiduciary duties.

Mr Adamu said he would lodge an appeal, while the Oceania Football Confederation said it would respect any decision from Mr Temarii to challenge the ruling.

Nigeria Creates 20 Million Jobs As Chicken Imports Are Banned

2010-11-17T05:02:00.000Z

The ban on the importation of frozen chicken into Nigeria has created a minimum of 20 million jobs in the poultry and related industries, National Vice Chairman, South West of the Poultry Association of Nigeria (PAN), Dr. Ayo Oduntan, has said.

Full Article: Click Here

Akunyili Condemns Use of ‘Naija’ in Place of Nigeria

2010-11-17T04:54:00.001Z

The Federal Government has condemned in strong terms the use of “Naija” in place of Nigeria, saying that such usage is “very uncharitable and unpatriotic”.

Minister of Information and Communication, Prof. Dora Akunyili, made the remarks while receiving the participants of Heir Apparent Reality Show in her office in Abuja yesterday.

Akunyili, who frowned on the continuous misrepresentation of the country's official name in place of a “corrupt” version, said: "It is very offensive to call Nigeria ‘Naija’. We are making plans to write companies to stop using the word Naija. I have heard that name Naija in adverts. I want them to go back and remove that word. If anybody says this is Naija, ask the person, 'Where is Naija?' We have to stop this word because it is catching up with the young. If we don't put a stop to its usage now, it will continue to project us wrongly.”

The minister's condemnation was prompted by a sentence in the presentation of the visiting group where “our world is Naija” was inserted.

Akunyili, who fervently spoke against the use of the word, ordered that the sentence be removed from the programme and changed to “our world is Nigeria”.

“Naija” is obviously a Nigerianised form of Niger, from where Nigeria derived its name.

The word is popularly used by musicians, artistes, advert managers and corporate companies and it could be positive or negative, although it is being used more positively in recent times.

It is believed to be trendier and is used by the younger generation.

Do you think it is really a big deal calling Nigeria; 'Naija'?

Lagos - Lasgidi

Abuja - Abj

America - D States

Nigeria - Naija

GT THE GUITARMAN LEAVES STORM RECORDS

2010-11-15T07:03:00.000Z

Storm Records

Artist GT the Guitarman, after months of speculation and rumors that he was leaving Storm Records, has officially left Storm Records to form his label EMBER Entertainment.

GT The Guitar Man

“Leaving Storm Records is a natural result of an inner development. I signed a (three) 3 year deal with them in 2005, stayed on for an additional couple of years all the time I was growing within and trying to figure out how to take GT to the next level,”

NIGERIA WINS AFRICAN WOMEN CHAMPIONSHIP (AWC) TITLE

2010-11-14T22:37:00.000Z

Nigeria won the African Women's Championship title after beating Equatorial Guinea 4-2 in the final in South Africa on Sunday.

A late flurry of goals helped the Super Falcons to seal their sixth title.

The brave Guinean ladies were undone by two own-goals that robbed them of the chance of retaining the title.

AUNG SAN SUU KYI IS FREE AT LAST

2010-11-13T11:35:00.000Z

Freedom at last!!!

The military authorities in Burma have released the pro-democracy leader, Aung San Suu Kyi.

She has appeared in front of a crowd of her supporters who rushed to her house in Rangoon when nearby barricades were removed by the security forces.

Aung San Suu Kyi born 19 June 1945, is a Burmese opposition politician and a former General Secretary of the National League for Democracy. In the 1990 general election, Aung San Suu Kyi's National League for Democracy party won 59% of the national votes and 80% (392 of 492) of the seats in Parliament, leading some to claim that this implies Suu Kyi was elected Prime Minister.She had, however, already been detained under house arrest before the elections. She had remained under house arrest in Myanmar for almost 14 out of the past 20 years.

FACEBOOK FOR BLACKBERRY - UPDATE RELEASED

2010-11-13T04:44:00.001Z

Today, I’m excited to announce the availability of the new Facebook for BlackBerry® smartphones V1.9.

In v1.8, focus was on optimizing the speed and performance of the application; now in V.1.9 more facebook features have been added that BlackBerry smartphone fans have been asking for.

The main change was the addition of Places.

However, the latest update brings Facebook to version 1.9.0.20, once installed, you will have access to tons of new features which are all related to the new Places feature, but there are some other improvements which may be pretty popular too.

When you check your private messages in Facebook v1.9 you will now see a list of messages, instead of just the new ones, also there is a neat new feature which allows you to easily search for people and pages etc, finally the Friends and Pages screen has been overhauled.

What would you change about the Facebook for BlackBerry app?

ETISALAT BRINGS SAMSUNG GALAXY TAB TO NIGERIA

2010-11-12T04:15:00.000Z

Samsung along with Etisalat has announced its latest Android 2.2 tablet for Nigeria. Galaxy Tab will be available in all Etisalat experience centres with a one year free bundled data, SMS and voice call.

The Galaxy Tab comes bundled with Etisalat SIM card, which offers 25 minutes of free voce calls, 25 free SMS and 250 megabyte free data access every month for 12 months, with automatic credit on the first day of the month. Subscribers will have the opportunity to top up their accounts and still make voice calls or send SMS after exhausting the monthly free bundle services. All unused freebies must be exhausted within the month in question as there will be no room to carry them over to the next month.

The Samsung Galaxy Tab is a new smart media device that allows users to enjoy PC-like web browsing, email-on-the-go, voice and SMS functionality, social network updates on-the-go, video calls and other smart device functionalities with an optimised user interface. The new product is a 7 inch device with android operating system 2.2, which combines all the functionalities of a personal computer and a mobile phone convenient form factor.

WE WOKE UP AND NIGERIA WAS BROKE

2010-11-11T20:32:00.000Z

By Eta Uso (Jr).

It is not unusual that we might wake up one day to find out that Nigeria is Broke. Yes Broke!!!

If things are not corrected, a day is coming when Nigeria as a nation would file for bankruptcy.

But lest we mix it up, yes Nigeria will be bankrupt but the reverse will be the case for a selected few.

Selected few? Who are these selected few? These selected few are the few insatiable wealth amassers. But who are they? The answer is simple, they are the political class. The political class of this nation has set our nation; Nigeria, on a fast lane to bankruptcy.

Nigeria is a nation currently known for setting bad precedents which history could never have envisaged.

It will be laughable, but it is a clear possibility in the Nigerian factor that this sovereign nation could go bankrupt while few individuals who swore under oath to uphold our honour and glory will be equating their individual wealth to that of nations.

A day could be coming where these individuals will become nations themselves. The signals are glaring. Today, we have fellow Nigerians who single handedly put a whole state under their foot and assume defacto rulers with total disregard to the citizenry.

Nigerians must arise. We cannot afford to sleep while few people soak up our resources, only to leave us (Nigeria) bankrupt and go out to setup new nations and empires in foreign lands. It is a pity but the signs are becoming clear on a daily basis.

Lest it was not said; but I say it here today, that a day is coming where this sovereign nation, our pride, our country; Nigeria, will go bankrupt and then with our eyes open, foreign nations will buy us up and we; I mean you and I, will become tenants on this very land.

A word is enough for the Wise!!!

Let us change our paths now we still can.

God Bless Nigeria.

A COUNTRY WE CALL NIGERIA

2010-11-10T19:16:00.001Z

By Eta Uso (Jr).

Nigeria, what has become of you?

These days it is either strikes, bomb-blasts, kidnapping, slandering of political opponents, ingenious looting, begging for our rights, leadership nonchalance, think any vice – think Nigeria.

The political class is in a state of decay such as never seen since the world begun. The citizens are so impoverished and disenfranchised that they now beg for their rights rather than demand for it.

It is only in this same Nigeria, where senators get millions as constituency allowance, then come home to give few scholarships to an insignificant number of people, buy motorcycles and sewing machines to share to an insignificant few, then they go about sounding their trumpets that they have alleviated poverty in their constituencies.

It is only in Nigeria where political appointees are actually glorified sycophants who must abide to the rule of their masters or be exiled to the poverty-soaked way of life of the common Nigerian [a situation that a common Nigerian finds him/herself as caused by the same selfish masters that they call leaders].

It is only in Nigeria where failed leaders and clearly unpopular political office holders, come out to vie for offices and even go ahead to seek 2nd terms, 3rd terms and even more as may be allowed by the constitution. It is clear that it is only in Nigeria where our leaders seek re-election even when the land they swore an oath to govern and serve is ridden with strikes, anarchy, deprivation, unrest and all humanly thinkable vices.

It is only in Nigeria where leaders list as achievements and roll out drums to commission roads, bore-holes and streetlights of which are the basic amenities of any organised society.

It is unfortunate that we have a decayed Nigeria, a Nigeria where its citizens are fed little drops of their rights and they rejoice over it like it is a big favour. It is laughable that even the best pre-scientists could easily tell how the world would be even hundreds of years after their time but they could not even comprehend the level of absolute decay of the political class found in Nigeria today.

I pray for a great Nigeria, but we must follow up our prayers with actions.

We must alleviate poverty in the lands.

We must push for a Nigeria where a bright future is certain. Uncertainty fuels greed and sycophancy.

We must have a Nigeria where we demand for our rights and not beg for it.

We must have a Nigeria, where we have true leaders and not selfish masters.

We must have a Nigeria where our leaders feed stones to the sycophants to give way for enough room in their ear-canals to hear the wishes and requests of the people they swore under oath to serve.

Let us join hands together and move Nigeria forward.

God Bless Nigeria!!!

X-BOX ADD-ON GREAT FOR ALL AGES

2010-11-10T08:44:00.000Z

The Kinect, Microsoft’s answer to the motion-sensing Nintendo Wii, will have you jumping for joy.

This add-on device for the Xbox 360 is destined to be the next big thing in gaming because it’s an absolute blast to play.

The Kinect, a foot-long black plastic box that sits atop your TV, holds a mix of cameras and sensors that track 48 different parts of your body, making you the controller.

It may owe a debt to the Wii, but the Kinect takes players to a whole new place.

You even control the interface by hand-swiping it across your body to choose a task and putting out your hand to pick up what you need to play a game.

The $150 device comes with “Kinect Adventures,” a title that has you dodging balls and obstacles, plugging leaks and, most fantastically, whitewater rafting using your body to turn and jump.

LAPTOP REPAIR COST MAN $20 MILLION

2010-11-10T07:22:00.003Z

Full article: Click Here

NIGERIA UNIONS EASE STRIKE THREAT AFTER GOVT TALKS

2010-11-10T06:57:00.000Z

* Unions say may call off strike on Wednesday

* Presidency says will work on new minimum wage

Nigeria's unions moderated their threat of a three-day strike after the intervention of President Goodluck Jonathan late on Tuesday, saying they would still stage a stoppage but may call off the action later on Wednesday.

The Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) and the Trade Union Congress (TUC) had threatened a three-day warning strike from Wednesday followed by an indefinite stoppage to press demands for an increase to the monthly minimum wage.

Jonathan cut short a visit to the commercial hub Lagos on Tuesday to lead emergency talks late into the evening in a bid to persuade the unions to drop their threat.

"We have heard the message of Mr President ... We will meet tomorrow by 3 pm (1400 GMT) and we will announce the outcome of our meeting, whether or not to call off the strike," acting NLC president Promise Adewusi told reporters after the meeting.

*Reuters

17 TRAITS OF BILLIONAIRES

2010-11-06T14:58:00.000Z

1. Billionaires start small

Billionaires were not born to be billionaires. They were born like every other human but they desired to be exceptional. Sometimes, most people believe that billionaires such as Bill Gates and Mark Zuckerberg emerged overnight to become billionaires. That’s definitely not true.

2. They think Big

"I always knew I was going to be rich. I don't think I ever doubted it for a minute." – Warren Buffett

3. Billionaires take calculated risk

"To win big, you sometimes have to take big risks." – Bill Gates

4. They are competitive

"You don't have to be the biggest to beat the biggest." – Henry Ross Perot

5. They are focused

"The wise man put all his eggs in one basket and watches the basket." – Andrew Carnegie

6. They are driven by passion

"Passion is what drives me forward. Passion is what makes me go to bed at 2am and wake up at 6am.” – Aliko Dangote; the richest black man in the world

7. They are goal getters

"A good goal is like a strenuous exercise, it makes you stretch." – Mary Kay Ash

8. They thrive on criticism

"Never be ashamed! There's some who will hold it against you, but they are not worth bothering with." – J. K. Rowling

9. They have strong self imposed standards

"I am stingy and I'm proud of the reputation." – Ingvar Kamprad

10. They use debt to their advantage

"Be careful when you take on debt. If you take on debt personally, make sure it is small. If you take on large debt, make sure someone else is paying for it." – Rich Dad

11. They are opportunists

"Buy when everyone else is selling and hold when everyone else is buying. This is not merely a catchy slogan. It is the very essence of successful investments." – J. Paul Getty

12. They use money as a means to keep score

"I don't make deals for the money. I've got enough much more than I’ll ever need. I do it to do it." – Donald Trump

13.They thrive on pressure and uncertainty

"You must not only learn to live with tension, you must seek it out. You must learn to thrive on stress." – J. Paul Getty

14. They learn quickly from mistakes

"Sometimes when you innovate, you make mistakes. It's best to admit them quickly and get on with improving your other innovations." – Steve Jobs

15. They are committed

"I'm not afraid of turning 80 and I have lots of things to do. I don't have time for dying." – Ingvar Kamprad

16. They are persistent

"Sheer persistence is the difference between success and failure." – Donald Trump

17. They believe in themselves

Don’t limit yourself. Many people limit themselves to what they think they can do. You can go as far as your mind lets you. What you believe, remember you can achieve." – Mary Kay Ash

*Courtsey: Strategic Business Team

NOLLYWOOD AND GOLLYWOOD TO SIGN PEACE DEAL

2010-11-06T04:24:00.000Z

Peace is finally on the way between Gollywood (Ghana) and Nollywood (Nigeria) as both parties have agreed to sign a memorandum of understanding (MoU) on what to charge when movies are done in both countries.

There has been a simmering face-off between movie makers of both countries ever since Gollywood introduced a $1,000 fee from foreign movie makers, especially those from Nollywood, in a bid to reduce the extent to which foreign movies had taken over the Ghanaian market.

Nigeria responded with a hefty amount for their counterparts in Ghana – an amount Ghanaian actor John Dumelo allegedly refused to pay when he was acting in Nigeria and was reportedly arrested.

Meanwhile, plans for a final decisive meeting either in Lagos or Accra has been confirmed.

“We are brothers and we will forever remain brothers. It is a free enterprise; we just need to sort a few things out.” Arinze (Actors Guild of Nigeria President) was quoted as saying.

FOUNDATION X HAS OFFERED THE BRITISH GOVERNMENT £5BILLION

2010-11-05T17:27:00.000Z

A mysterious organisation called Foundation X has offered the British Government £5billion and wants nothing in return, according to a Tory peer; Lord James of Blackheath.

Speaking in the Lords, 72-year-old James said the British government would receive an immediate £5bn and a total of £17bn by Christmas if Foundation X were contacted by someone equal to head of state status or someone with an international security rating equal to the top six people in the world.

There will be no interest charge and if the Government would like it as well, it will put up money for funding hospitals, schools and the building of Crossrail, he said. These things can be done but a senior member of the Government has to accept the invitation to a phone call to the chairman of Foundation x.

Ending his 15-minute address on Monday, Lord James remarked: This is too big an issue. I am just an ageing, obsessive old peer and I am easily dispensable, but getting to the truth is not. We need to know what really is happening here. We must find out the truth of this situation.

Former city boss Lord James yesterday seemed aware that his bizarre remarks and the supposed organisation's name smacked of a sinister group from the James Bond franchise attempting a poorly veiled blackmail scheme. This is totally different to a Nigerian email scheme, he insisted. They don't want anything in return - no access to confidential information or bank accounts.

No one would forgive us if we missed an opportunity like this.

I wonder why they feel all dubious schemes are from Nigeria!!!

DISGUISED MAN BOARDS INTERNATIONAL FLIGHT

2010-11-05T07:01:00.000Z

An asian man boards a Vancouver bound flight disguised as an elderly caucasian man.

Could this be the new route in identity theft?

MAMA 2010

2010-11-05T06:37:00.000Z

Where will you be on the 11th of December 2010?

NOKIA LAUNCHES OVI LIFE TOOLS SERVICE IN NIGERIA

2010-11-05T06:08:00.000Z

Nokia extends its Ovi Life Tools service to Africa, following successful launches in India, Indonesia and China. The subscription service provides users with health, agriculture, education and entertainment information and is designed to help improve users’ quality of life and prosperity.

The healthcare service include information and advice on mother & childcare, health, fitness and diseases. Users can tailor the service to their needs by entering their sex, age and other relevant details. The agriculture service allows subscribers to specify the crops or commodities they are interested in, their location and the preferred language for messages. English learning can be provided in Easy, Medium and Difficult levels, according to the user’s proficiency. The entertainment services includes local and international football information (personalised around the subscriber’s favourite team), music, entertainment news and jokes. The service will be available in English, Pidgin and Hausa.

In Nigeria the service will be offered through two of the country’s largest operators, Zain/Airtel and Glo Mobile, at the affordable price of NGN250 per month for the Agriculture service and NGN200 per month for all the other subscriptions.

10,000 PIRATED DVDS OF NOLLYWOOD NIGERIAN MOVIES SEIZED IN BROOKLYN

2010-11-04T21:22:00.000Z

More than 10,000 pirated DVDs of popular Nigerian movies have been seized this week after complaints from "Nollywood" film execs about rampant piracy in Brooklyn.

SIASIA IN CHARGE OF SUPER EAGLES

2010-11-04T20:58:00.000Z

Samson Siasia has been named the new coach of Nigeria by the NIgeria Football Federation in Abuja on Thursday evening.

The 43 year-old tactician is expected to begin his job on December 1. Siasia was favoured over former team mate Stephen Keshi, with the two former Super Eagles players put under the microscope to find the best possible candidate to take over at a difficult time for the side.

Nigeria have struggled lately in competitions and qualifying for the African Cup of Nations tournaments and the World Cup in 2010, where they did not progress past the group stage.

Siasia has been successful with the country's U20 and U23 sides winning silver medals at the World Youth Championships and the Beijing Olympics.

TWO AIRLINES GROUND A380S AFTER EMERGENCY LANDING

2010-11-04T20:54:00.000Z

Qantas and Singapore Airlines both grounded their fleet of A380s and British engine maker Rolls-Royce issued a statement urging operators of the aircraft to perform safety checks on its Trent 900 engine.

NIGERIA: COMPANIES MISS DEADLINE FOR NITEL SALE

2010-11-04T20:44:00.000Z

A consortium has missed a deadline for a $750 million down payment to purchase Nigeria's struggling state-run telephone company (NITEL).

Usman Gumi -- the managing director of the Nigerian company GiCell and a member of the New Generation Telecommunications Consortium asked for an additional 30 days to put up the money.

The consortium had bid $2.5 billion to buy the failing Nigerian Telecommunications Ltd., known locally as Nitel.

Nitel, in principle, provides landline telephone service in Nigeria, Africa's most populous nation with 150 million residents. However, the state company's telephones now rarely work.

Attempts to privatize Nitel have failed in the past.

DO NOT CELEBRATE HALLOWEEN

2010-10-31T17:49:00.005Z

NO TO HALLOWEEN

Whether or not Christians should celebrate Halloween can be a very controversial topic. Some Christians celebrate Halloween simply by dressing up in a costume and having fun, seeing it as innocent and harmless. Other Christians are equally convinced that Halloween is a satanic holiday established to worship evil spirits and promote darkness and wickedness. So, who is right? Is it possible for Christians to celebrate Halloween without compromising their faith?

Scripture does not speak at all about Halloween, but it does give us some principles on which we can make a decision. In Old Testament Israel, witchcraft was a crime punishable by death (Exodus 22:18; Leviticus 19:31; 20:6, 27). The New Testament teaching about the occult is clear. Acts 8:9-24, the story of Simon, shows that occultism and Christianity don't mix. The account of Elymas the sorcerer in Acts 13:6-11 reveals that sorcery is violently opposed to Christianity. Paul called Elymas a child of the devil, an enemy of righteousness and a perverter of the ways of God. In Acts 16, at Philippi, a fortune-telling girl lost her demon powers when the evil spirit was cast out by Paul. The interesting matter here is that Paul refused to allow even good statements to come from a demon-influenced person. Acts 19 shows new converts who have abruptly broken with their former occultism by confessing, showing their evil deeds, bringing their magic paraphernalia, and burning it before everyone (Acts 19:19).

Is there anything evil about a Christian dressing up as a princess or cowboy and going around the block asking for candy? No, there is not. Are there things about Halloween that are anti-Christian and should be avoided? Absolutely!!!

Ten Reasons Christians Should Not Celebrate Halloween

Many in our secular society believe Halloween is nothing more than a harmless festival that allows kids to collect candy. But is it? Its origins lie deeply rooted in the occult, and Christians should stay away. Here are ten reasons why.

1. October 31st has long been known as "The Festival of the Dead." The Celtic tribes and their priests the Druids celebrated this day as a marker for the change from life to death.

2. Halloween today is performed usually by adherents of witchcraft who use the night for their rituals. Witches celebrate Halloween as the "Feast of Samhain," the first feast of the witchcraft year. Being a festival of the dead, Halloween is a time when witches attempt to communicate with the dead through various forms of divination.

3. Christians should not be involved with occultic practice or divination. Note God's command against divination in Deuteronomy 18.

4. Occultists believe Halloween is a time of transition between life and death. Some occult practitioners practiced divination and believed you could learn the secrets of life and wisdom by Iying on a grave and listening to the messages from the long-departed.

5. Occultists also taught that spirits and ghosts left the grave during this night and would seek out warmth in their previous homes. Villagers, fearful of the possibility of being visited by the ghosts of past occupants, would dress up in costumes to scare the spirits on their way. They would also leave food and other treats at their door to appease the spirits so they would not destroy their homes or crops but instead move on down the road. That is the real reason why kids dress up in costumes today and go door-to-door seeking treats.

6. Occultists also would try to scare away the spirits by carving a scary face into a pumpkin. This horrible visage would hopefully move the spirit on to another home or village and spare that home from destruction. Sometimes the villagers would light a candle and place it within the pumpkin and use it as a lantern (hence the name, Jack-o-Lantern). This is the origin of carving pumpkins at Halloween.

7. In some witchcraft covens, the closing ritual includes eating an apple or engaging in fertility rites. In the Bible (Genesis 3), eating a piece of fruit brought sin and death into the world. In witchcraft, eating an apple is symbolic of bringing life. The practice of bobbing for apples brings together two pagan traditions: divination and the fertility ritual.

8. Schools are removing any religious significance from Christmas (often called winter break) and Easter (spring break). Isn't it ironic that most public schools still celebrate Halloween even though it has occultic origins?

9. Participating in Halloween gives sanction to a holiday that promotes witches, divination, haunted houses, and other occultic practices.

10. Christians should avoid Halloween and develop creative alternatives. Churches can hold a Fall Fun Festival and/or celebrate Reformation Day (also October 31). They should not endorse or promote Halloween.

THE SMOOTH OPERATOR - BMW 5-SERIES (2011)

2010-10-31T14:57:00.001Z

Epitome of modern design and driving pleasure in the world of premium mid-size designs. Think a car?

Think the BMW 5-Series (2011)

TOURISM POTENTIAL OF CROSS RIVER STATE OF NIGERIA

2010-10-30T20:03:00.002+01:00

This is a clip about the tourism potential of Cross River State of Nigeria. The state is home to Cross River Drills and Gorillas, Chimpanzees, Baboons and lots of other wildlife animals. It is historically rich, economically buoyant and tourism-wise, it is blessed with the best such as Obudu Mountain Resort, Afi Mountain Wildlife Sanctuary, Cross River National Park and many more.

This clip has also made historical review to the legendary scottish missionary; Mary Slessor including the home where she stayed and also the Irish Sister of Charity, Rev Mother Mary Charles Magdalene Walker amongst others.

Cross River State stands on a very unique spot of what is known today as South South Nigeria also known as the Niger-Delta. From the soaring plateaus of the mountain tops of Obudu to the Rain forests of Afi, from the Waterfalls of Agbokim and Kwa to the spiralling ox-bow Calabar River which provides sights and images of the Tinapa Business Resort, Calabar Marina, Calabar Residency Museum and the Calabar Slave Park along its course, there is always a thrilling adventure awaiting the eco-tourist visiting Cross River State.

Other tourist attractions are the Ikom Monoliths (a series of volcanic-stone monoliths constructed some time between 2500 BC and 1 AD), the Mary Slessor Tomb, Calabar Drill Monkey Sanctuary, Cross River National Park, Afi Mountain walkway canopy, Kwa falls, Agbokim waterfalls, Tinapa Business Resort and the annual Calabar Carnival that takes place during the Christmas period.

Cross River State can be accessed by air through the Margaret Ekpo International Airport at Calabar. There are daily flights to Calabar from Lagos and Abuja serviced by airlines such as Arik Airlines and Aero Contractors.

Calabar, the capital of Cross River State, is now the leading tourism city of Nigeria. Visitors from different parts of Nigeria and overseas, come to the city in large numbers all year around.

*Video Clip Courtsey of: cometonigeriaTV

GOD IS WITH US

2010-10-29T00:09:00.001+01:00

Just came across this in my mail and its a worthy piece for you all to see.

Malachi 3:3 says:

'He will sit as a refiner and purifier of silver.'

This verse puzzled some women in a Bible study and they wondered what this statement meant about the character and nature of God. One of the women offered to find out the process of refining silver and get back to the group at their next Bible Study.

That week, the woman called a silversmith and made an appointment to watch him at work. She didn't mention anything about the reason for her interest beyond her curiosity about the process of refining Silver. As she watched the silversmith, he held a piece of silver over the fire and let it heat up. He explained that in refining silver, one needed to hold the silver in the middle of the fire where the flames were hottest as to burn away all the impurities The woman thought about God holding us in such a hot spot; then she thought again about the verse that says: 'He sits as a refiner and purifier of silver.'

She asked the silversmith if it was true that he had to sit there in front of the fire the whole time the silver was being refined. The man answered that yes, he not only had to sit there holding the silver, but he had to keep his eyes on the silver the entire time it was in the fire. If the silver was left a moment too long in the flames, it would be destroyed.. The woman was silent for a moment.

Then she asked the silversmith, 'How do you know when the silver is fully refined?

'He smiled at her and answered, 'Oh, that's easy -- when I see my image in it.' If today you are feeling the heat of the fire , remember that God has his eye on you and will keep watching you until He sees His image in you.

NOTABLE QUOTES BY NIGERIANS FOR A BETTER NIGERIA

2010-10-13T23:41:00.004+01:00

“My belief is complete, Nigeria will shine and shine again” ~ Lai Labode

“I need a Leader, a leader with a passionate disgust for sycophants” ~ Eta ‘Royalty’ Uso.

“The destiny of a nation and its people are irrevocably bond together, none will reach greatness at the expense of the other” ~ Lai Labode

"We must have a Nigeria where our leaders feed stones to the sycophants to give way for enough room in their ear-canals to hear the wishes and requests of the people they swore under oath to serve." ~ Eta 'Royalty' Uso, 2010.

“I see an intense battle of ideology and pragmatism building amongst the Nigerian youths. It is obviously a good sign.” ~ Lai Labode

“Our vote must count not by begging them to count it but by insisting that it must be counted.” ~ Gov. Adams Oshomole

“A voter’s card is a ticket of hope, a symbol of possibility and a confirmation of liberty. Your voter’s card is much more powerful than your international passport because it cannot be withdrawn by any Government. Never fail to register to vote, you have no electoral say without it.” ~ Lai Labode.

“Nigeria can no longer remain a potential” ~ Jide Salu

"Each one of us, and, indeed, all those who aspire to national leadership must bring their own visions, views and styles to the business of reforming Nigeria, and the search for solutions." ~ Ibrahim Babangida

"Nigeria has no business with poverty. With our human and material resources, we shall strive to eradicate poverty from our country." ~ Olusegun Obasanjo

"The work of Nigeria is not complete for as long as there is any one Nigerian who goes to bed on empty stomach." ~ Ibrahim Babangida

"You see, I was told stories, we were all told stories as kids in Nigeria. We had to tell stories that would keep one another interested, and you weren't allowed to tell stories that everybody else knew. You had to dream up new ones." ~ Ben Okri

"To meet the expectations of the majority of our people, and to open up new vistas of economic opportunity so that the aspirations of Nigerians can stand a fair chance of being fulfilled in a lifetime, there must be a truly committed leadership in a democratic Nigeria." ~ Ibrahim Babangida

Who Are You Following?

2010-10-06T22:10:00.001+01:00

With the explosion of social media on the internet, one of the common questions you hear people asking is who they are following on Twitter or Facebook. The more important question to ask might be "Where are they leading you?"

Hundreds of thousands of people may decide to follow a person, but that does not make them a leader. True leaders are much more than someone who entertains or captivates you for the moment. They have the ability to listen, and by listening, they gain invaluable feedback from the team. Feedback helps them correct what they're doing wrong and hone their leadership skills. It stands to reason that leaders are humble – they know their advisors have much to teach. And leaders, as any successful military commander knows, trust their team. The person who thinks he or she is the smartest person on the team isn't a true leader; this person has no faith in the others and has never bothered to develop leadership skills.

"It is the person willing to listen and learn who has the makings of a great leader."

Nigeria Elections 2011. Vote!!!

2010-09-17T07:51:00.001+01:00

Mobile-Network Woes [SOS]

2010-08-04T21:23:00.002+01:00

Blackberry; a mobile device famously called a perfect companion. It is a device that keeps your office and business with you wherever you go.

However, as we all know, a Blackberry cannot function at its full potential without an active Blackberry Internet Service (BIS) or Blackberry Enterprise Service (BES) Plan.

Having a blackberry was fun, but maximising its purpose for which it was built, has been a thing of frustration, thanks to Globacom Nigeria.

I have been a Globacom Nigeria mobile subscriber for the past five (5) years and I must commend that it has been a period of smiles and satisfaction. I was impressed by Globacom Nigeria’s Quality of Service (QoS) as regards voice calls, therefore, when I finally bought a blackberry some few months back, I decided to hook onto “Globacom Nigeria’s Blackberry Internet Service” and this singular act of mine, happened to be my un-doing.

No doubt, I had some blissful moments at the beginning but it did not last long, as the true face of things as regards Globacom Nigeria’s Blackberry service in Calabar began to show up. At first, it started with frequent network downtimes on the blackberry platform and then on the 11^th of June, 2010, [Blackout], Glo Mobile’s Blackberry Network across the whole length and breadth of Calabar was down and out and this blackout ran consistently for three (3) days until reprieve came on the 14^th of June, 2010. The most interesting part was that, while my friends all over Calabar were placing phone calls across to each other during the blackout period to see if it was a general issue of which it was, numerous calls placed to the Glo Mobile blackberry helpline on “333” was received with statements of unawareness of such an occurrence. Personally, I made numerous calls to the Glo Mobile blackberry helpline on “333” during this blackout period of which the customer service representatives gave me an impression that they were not aware of such situation. Anyway, network was restored on the 14^th of June, 2010 after a 3-day consistent blackout of the Glo Mobile blackberry service in Calabar, but when I thought that hope had come, I never knew that was the beginning of an unprecedented collapse of the Glo Mobile blackberry service in Calabar.

The staff at the Glo Mobile Blackberry / General customer-care centre can testify to how many times I have sent them emails and to the uncountable times I have called in regards to the consistent poor blackberry service rendered by a network who wants her subscribers to Rule their World when they cannot even Rule theirs.

With the comatose state of Glo Mobile’s Blackberry Service in Calabar with very infrequent uptimes, I wish to ask the following questions;

1. 1. Why is it that Glo Mobile’s blackberry customer service team claimed to be unaware of the three (3) days total blackout that occurred from the 11^th – 14^th of June, 2010 in Calabar?

2. 2. When are we expecting to see the gains of the Glo-1 underwater cable of which was widely spoken about with adverts all across local and international media?

4. 3. Glo Mobile Nigeria, should give just one reason as to why they should be allowed to continue operations in Calabar despite its comatose blackberry service?

*My Views are centered on Glo Mobile’s Quality of Service (QoS) in Calabar as the city of Calabar has been my location throughout the period.

*Globacom Nigeria and Glo Mobile Nigeria as separately used above, is one and same company.

Eta Uso (Jr), Resident in Calabar.

AT THIS MOMENT

2010-07-13T23:41:00.003+01:00

That moment of change of which I have been waiting for has come. I will be gone but I will be back; Stronger, Better and loaded with all The Best Things of Life.

WHAT’S ON MY MIND?

2010-06-13T09:11:00.002+01:00

It is 09:36pm on the 12th of June, 2010. I am on the bed; my mind is wandering and I am thinking of what to blog about. On one side, I am remembering that Nigeria started their world cup campaign with a goal down to Argentina and on the other side; I am getting uneasy with thoughts as to the reason why the blackberry network in Calabar has been down for three days consecutively. In between these thoughts, I am thinking about the political situation in the state as regards the forth-coming elections.

While these thoughts where wandering, I felt it good to put it on paper.

Anyway, while writing these thoughts down, my mind just got blank as there seem to be no thoughts coming through anymore. Therefore I am dropping my pen as there are no thoughts to put on paper for now.

Till when next my mind starts wandering.

Am Out!

Astalavista.

ZAIN NIGERIA...WHAT HAS CALABAR DONE TO YOU?

2010-05-08T09:06:00.012+01:00

I write this message with regards to the consistent grief and unequivocal failure being showcased by ZAIN Nigeria in Calabar, Cross River State. I have been a Zain subscriber since the year 2004. My Zain line, back then which was known as Econet Wireless, was the first gsm line I ever had. From the day I subscribed to this network in 2004 till date, it has been a case of continuous and consistent poor quality of service.

All my friends, immediate family members and relations who back then were all on the Zain network, have all migrated to other networks and have permanently dumped their Zain lines which have been since disconnected by the network due to inactivity. I am the only person and I mean, the only person, within my clique of friends and family members that still uses the Zain network. My only reason for being loyal to the Zain network even with her consistent failure is just because it was my first line and it happens to be the line I put in my Year Book during my High School graduation. I have always kept hanging on because I always have this feeling that the network (Zain Nigeria) will improve its services in Calabar, but it’s been six years and no change.

I am based in Calabar, Cross River State and I am talking with 6 years experience as a Calabar subscriber and as a bonafide witness to Zain Nigeria's perpetual failure in Calabar, Cross River State. I have been through uncountable dropped calls and general poor service. Often, even when my phone is on and with the network bar at maximum, when people try to reach me, it says "The Line you are calling is not responding" and this can happen for the whole day and its been almost a daily occurrence. I have tolerated these continuous hiccups and for six (6) years I have been loyal and I hope to remain with Zain Nigeria praying they improve.

This message comes as a cry from my heart because I am fed up with Zain Nigeria's services in Calabar.

However, as I have persisted for six (6) years, I intend to still hang on for as long as possible till change comes. However, now I need a reason to stay, as Zain Nigeria has failed consistently and when all my people in Calabar have abandoned Zain Nigeria, I still stood firm. Zain Nigeria has been through over four (4) network name changes with consistent network failure and am still here.

Please let this letter be seen as a reason for action to greatly improve your (Zain Nigeria) services in Calabar, Cross River State.

I still love you guys (Zain Nigeria).

Regards.

Eta ‘Royalty’ Uso

N/B: This is an extract from the original e-mail I personally sent to Zain Nigeria’s Customer Care last year and twice this year but there was no response from them.

REMEMBERING MY TRIP TO UYO (JUNE 2009)

2010-04-10T10:16:00.001+01:00

Sitting down scrolling through my phone on the 10^th of April, 2010 @ 6am and I came across the lovely pictures I snapped during my 3-day trip to Uyo last year, then suddenly, memories flow in like a speeding Ferrari and I just wished I could replay in detail, those moments of my Uyo trip once again. As the memories flew in, I could not help but write out my experience seen below.

The reason for my trip to Uyo was in respect to an interview for students who applied to undergo their Industrial Training Attachment at Mobil Nigeria Unlimited.

The beauty of my trip started just as we drove into Uyo, I was marvelled by the quality of the road both in width and thickness of which was almost under completion by the german construction giants; Julius Berger. The comfort and smooth movement courtesy of the new uyo road, which was near completion as at then was in a class of its own as against the bumpy ride of the expressway that links Cross River and Akwa Ibom State. Alongside the roads which without doubt were built to international standards, also, were the massive construction works that was going on at my left and right of which was a beauty for me. I was marvelled at the great change that I saw compared to the last time I was there in 2006. As we drove past different large construction sites, I kept on asking those beside me “what project is this, what project is that”. I was thrilled because I last visited Uyo in 2006 and then suddenly, I came back in 2009, and it looked like a new city was built. When I saw all these, I just said this Governor (Obong Godswill Akpabio) is working.

After the thrills I got from the entrance to the city, I finally got to the Akwa Ibom Transport Company bus park where I dropped off and took a cab to my hotel at F-Line Ewet Housing which was booked for my short stay.

As soon as I got into my accommodation and dropped my bags, I did not even take off my shoes before I requested a meal of Garri and Afang Soup (my favourite) and without any doubt, I did justice to the food. After the meal, I made some calls to the friends I had in Uyo and later that evening, a friend of mine came over and we went over to relax at The Lounge Bar. It was a night of fun and I enjoyed every moment of it.

The next morning, I got up early, did my routine and rushed off to EEMJM Hotel along Dominic Utuk street which was the venue for the Mobil Industrial Attachment Aptitude Test. Everything went on well and when I was through, I took a cab to visit my friend. We talked and laughed and he then suggested we go and hang out at ATL (Atlantic Hotels) with his friends. I agreed but by then I was so hungry so I told him to go to ATL since his friends where waiting for him while I rush back to my hotel and drop my exam materials. Anyway, when I returned to my apartment that afternoon, I could not resist but request another meal of Garri and Afang and I did justice to it before I later joined him and his friends at ATL that evening. The high point of the night was when we decided to retire for the night and on his way to drop me off, he alongside one of his friend suggested they take me to the Le’ Meridian Ibom Resort for sight-seeing. We had a long journey down there in the cool breeze of the night. Finally, we got to Le’ Meridian Ibom Resort and from the gates, it spoke for itself. We drove in, got out of the car and took a good stroll round the resort, I went round the swimming pool area, the piano bar, the beautiful shops and the gym centre. After all was seen, I certified within me and outspokenly that Le’ Meridian Ibom Resort was a certified ‘5-Star’. We later left and I was dropped off for the night, it was no doubt a worthy night-out in the city of Uyo.

The afternoon of the next day which was a Sunday, I could not say good-bye to the city, but I had no choice because I had to leave as I had to return to Calabar as my school was still in session. Within me, on my way to the park for my return journey, I just felt and knew that there was more to see and enjoy in that great city of Uyo.

Finally, I got to Calabar and as soon as I got home, I did not delay in replaying my view of the new Uyo and the beautiful exciting moments I experienced to my family.

I went to Uyo for an aptitude test but I got more than what I bargained for; Thanks to the hard working Government of the day who made the city a beauty for me to behold and admire and also thanks to my great friend based in Uyo who took me round to enjoy the Sight and Sounds of the great city.

It was a worthy journey and it also clearly showed me that; Change is possible once there is a will.

MY CAR

2010-04-04T08:32:00.000+01:00

Got rights to it, in a fairly used state. It really did make me smile as far back as the year, 2007.

But then, never did I know that I was in possession of one of the worst cars ever produced by Peugeot. This car, the Peugeot 306 only gave me temporary joy between the years 2007 – 2008. Since then, it has been a case of one fault to another even the fact that I rarely drive it to anywhere aside from school and back home daily. Another shocker came mid-2009 when I found out that Peugeot had long stopped production of the Peugeot 306 models, it then dawned on me that even Peugeot as a company knew that this model (Peugeot 306) was a failure. This car has been to the best technicians and mechanics in my city with no solution to the multiple problems it keeps generating daily.

Right now I can only sit and hope for God’s grace to prevail. With this car’s continuous problem of ceasing and going off whenever the brakes are applied coupled with so many side-attraction faults that sometimes make me cry, I guess it is telling me one thing, that; It is Expired. I need a new one!

Just got this Baby

2010-03-12T22:30:00.001Z

Just got this Baby!

It gives me my emails, Instant Messages and Wireless access all at my fingertips.

Its a worthy technological sweetheart (My Blackberry Curve 8900)

I love U!

AND THIS MOVIE MADE ME CRY – 2012

2010-02-21T10:52:00.002Z

This is definitely a great movie with great actors and great scripting. This is no doubt a movie worth spending a few quid’s on.

However, what made me cry only came down to a short scene in the movie starting from where the intelligent young scientist was up against the self-imposed acting C-in-C of the USA who did not want the gates of the space ship opened to allow millions of stranded humans get into the spaceship even as the tsunami as high as Mount Everest was fast approaching.

Then, just at that point where everyone was confused, the Heads of State of the People’s Republic of China and Japan both voted for the gates to be opened, then, the United Kingdom, Spain and France also voted in the affirmative as well Italy. With these few votes, the young scientist now had the support he needed and he then pleaded with the Captain of the ship to open the gates in these words “Captain Michelson, please”. Then the part that made me cry was when the captain picked up his communication equipment and spoke through the public address system to the hearing of the millions of people stranded outside of which they were only few minutes away from destruction and here was his words “This is the Captain, in a few moments you will open the gates to get this people in”. At this point, I cried. The captain’s words were the words of liberation that the millions outside who were few minutes away from disaster all needed. And they were all saved.

GOD AT WORK (Remembering 5TH JULY, 2007)

2010-02-21T10:44:00.001Z

I just know this one thing, that I am blessed beyond human comprehension by my God in heaven.

This blessings that follow me was once again, clearly and openly exhibited on the 5th of July, 2007. I went out with my dad’s Mercedes Benz car to buy diesel for our generating plant. However, I did not leave straight for the fuelling station; I went to check a friend first. Later that day, on my way to the diesel station which was on the express-way, quite far away from town, I had a busted tyre. However, although I immediately started hearing some loud irritating sound, I did not know that it came from my wheels. I was still going with some reasonable speed on this busted tyre, which was very dangerous, however I was not aware that this danger was looming around me, as I did not suspect the loud screeching sound to be coming from my wheels.

It was until I got into the fuelling station and stopped, that was when it dawned on me that the sound was from my car, because the loud sound stopped immediately I stopped the car, and I saw smoke coming up from the front left wheel of the car. Only for me to come out and see that the tyre was battered, tattered and in shreds.

Now, that was where my trouble started. The spare tyre in my car booth had no air in it and needed to be pumped. And the fuelling station was quite far from town. I was confused, and could not find any vulcanizer around to pump the spare tyre. Luckily, I saw a young guy (a stranger) around, and I asked him where I could find someone to pump my flat spare tyre, he did not only direct me to the place, but he offered to come along with me. While we strolled over a stretch of over 5km to the nearest tyre workshop, he totally and single-handedly kept rolling the spare tyre, while I, the victim of this incident was just strolling effortlessly by his side. Remember, I did not pay him or ask him to assist me. All I asked him was where I could find the nearest tyre workshop to pump my flat spare tyre, so that I could replace the busted front wheel tyre. As we strolled down this long stretch, we finally came to the workshop where I got my tyre pumped and was charged extra, to fix some missing components, to enable the tyre to be pumped. When all was done, we started our journey back, another 5km to where the car was parked in the fuelling station.

He, again rolled the tyre on his own throughout our return journey of another 5km, and remember this was a stranger I had never met before, but he offered me such a priceless assistance when I was in a state of confusion. Finally, we got to our destination after meandering against moving traffic on the express-way. As we got back, he also came and removed the busted tyre, and replaced it with the spare tyre that we just pumped. This whole process left his hands and jeans trousers messed up, while I, the victim of this incident was clean and fresh.

What, shocked me the most and made me know that I am truly and richly blessed was when he kindly rejected some money I offered him as gratitude for giving me such whole-hearted assistance that I never requested for. I insisted on giving him something in return as I felt that just “Thank You” was not enough, but he kindly rejected and said that he just wanted to help and was not expecting anything in return.

It was then that I saw and knew and considered and understood together that the hand of the Lord had done this, that the Holy One of Israel had created it (Isaiah 41:20). I just knew he was a God-sent. I knew he was a human angel acting on God’s command to help me without measure and without expecting anything in return. I then again knew that God’s word in Hebrews 13:5 “… I will never live you nor forsake you” was working fully and has always been with me.

I went home happily with the diesel I bought. GLORY TO GOD!

Eta E. Uso

AN OUTBURST FROM A FRIEND AGAINST THE USERS OF FAKE LOUIS VUITTON BAGS

2010-02-04T20:29:00.006Z

An Outburst from a friend against the users of fake Louis Vuitton Bags

Below in Pics; is a direct replication of the facebook comments from a friend’s page in response to her status update where she lashed out on wannabes who parade themselves using fake Louis Vuitton Bags specifically.

I had to put this up on my blog because of some of the hiliarious, few sensible and specifically very funny comments that were posted by her fans.

First off; please note that some of the comments are mostly written in Nigerian slangs therefore I offer my apologies for those of my readers who might have problems understanding and getting the fun out of this. However, for the rest of you all, just sit back, read and laugh your hearts out. It really gave me reason to laugh for hours. I have therefore put it up for you to have your share of the fun.

Here is her status update in quote “[Goodnews Udom] - A word out to custodians of fake LOUIS VUITTON BAGS et al...stop patronizing 'em fake wannabes cos if it ain't from a LOUIS VUITTON SHOP,then it ain't from LOUIS and if you ain't got your name on the LV customer database directly or indirectly...then..then save up till you can.It hurts so bad cos i got the real one and my sister knows..wink**”

View the hilarious comments in the pictures below in response to the status update.

ENJOY!

***Please Note: This facebook page replication was done with due permission from all respondents above.

CNN LIST CROSS RIVER STATE AS RURAL DEVELOPMENT GIANT

2010-02-04T07:19:00.001Z

Cross River State has been listed as one of the best performing states in rural development in Nigeria by the Cable News Network (CNN)

Consequently, CNN is to give adequate and free publicity to Nigeria as part of its 50th Anniversary Celebration.

The top three performing states in Nigeria are to be covered throughout this year on CNN rural development programme tagged Eye on Nigeria at 50.

A release from the Office of the Cross River State Commissioner for Information and Orientation, Hon Edet Okon Asim indicates that the programme is expected to commence in the state in the last week of

January 2010.

This acknowledgement, the Commissioner said is another positive score in the general view of Nigeria that the Imoke Government is the best in rural development in the Country.

While in the state, the team is expected to be lead by the head of the Cable News Network (CNN) in Nigeria, Mr. Christian Purefoy, to a guided visit of rural projects executed in the state under its rural

development such as roads, electrification, water and sanitation among others, where Cross River is rated best in terms of performance.

culled from: The Nigerian Chronicle

Eta Uso (Jnr)

I FEEL BAD FOR NIGERIA

2010-01-07T22:34:00.007Z

This is straight from my Heart.

Reason for This: THE RECENT LISTING OF NIGERIA AS A TERRORIST NATION.

It breaks my heart that this should be happening to Nigeria and also, the scenario in the country as at today, even makes it worse because it is a case of a Body (The Nation) in crises without the Head (The President) to stir things in the right path.

It pains me from the deepest of my heart that this is happening at a time when our Leader and No.1 citizen of our Nation is away due to medical reasons and not on ground to handle this.

I know that Nigeria has many vices that should give every Nigerian a reason to be perpetually sad, but however, we all know that Life must go on and that is why I personally refused to be saddened about all the happenings in the Country.

However, this case of Nigeria now listed as a terrorist Nation has broken the camel’s back and I am deeply saddened by this.

I do not want to shed tears for my beloved Nigeria. All I do, and will keep doing is to Pray for “One Nigeria with Love, Peace & Unity”.

God Bless Nigeria.

Proudly Nigerian.
Eta Uso (Jnr)
+234 805 2856 853

CALABAR CHRISTMAS CARNIVAL 2009

2010-01-07T21:11:00.017Z

The 2009 edition of the Carnival Calabar held on December 27 deviated from the norm. Unlike the four previous editions which started in the morning and ended in the night, the event not only held on a Sunday (the first time it would hold on the day), it also started around 3pm and ran to around 5am of the following day.

Though some people felt the carnival could have been shifted to the next day if the organisers really wanted people to enjoy their church service, Carnival 2009 was not devoid of its characteristic pomp and ceremony. Despite the five competing bands - Freedom Band, Masta Blasta Band, Bayside Band, Seagull Band and Passion Four - and the non-competing bands taking off at Millennium Park after the scheduled 2pm, people; old, young and children, lined the streets well into the night along the 12-kilometre procession route.

The excitement was contagious as Nigerians and foreigners either followed the procession or waited for them on the well lit streets. If the streets were packed, the U.J.Esuene Stadium, the terminus of the long, merry train overflowed with people. The street party, indeed, was spectacular with some of the bands putting their ingenuity to the test. The Masta Blastaer for instance, brought a Durbar and the people could not contain their joy at the sight of the beautifully costumed horses and their riders.

Participants and winners

Apart from the five competing bands in their traditional colours; Freedom (yellow), Masta Blasta (orange), Bayside (blue), Seagull (red) and Passion Four (green) that were judged at four adjudication points on their ability to interprete the theme of the carnival, ‘Land of Our Birth: Our People, Our Heritage,' some sponsors and organisations also had floats.

They include FirstBank, Spring Bank, Cadbury, Amber Tinapa, Apache Aliens, Lagos Dolphins, International Association of Lions Clubs and Fire Service. Others were the Civil Defence, Immigration Service, Prisons, Oceanic Bank, Nigerian Navy, Nigerian Army, Christ Embassy and Rotary International.

Four times winner, Passion Four Band and Seagull Band eventually tied for the first position after the bands were judged on the basis of Best Decorated Float, Carnival Move, Makeup/Costumes, Best Interpretation of the Carnival Theme and Best Reflection of the Carnival Spirit.

Some prominent indigenes of the state, as usual, participated in the procession which was also witnessed by the governors of Bayelsa and Rivers States, Timipriye Silva and Rotimi Amaechi respectively. Children were not left out of the scheme as they had their own procession the previous day. Seagull Band emerged the Junior Carnival Band of the Year.

Litter Busters

The people and government of Calabar, it appears, are not ready to soil the city's reputation as Africa's cleanest city. The Community Urban Development Authority, which has the task of cleaning the city had a float that was the last in the procession. Its staff painstakingly picked the litter left by the long train; it was difficult to believe that a large number of people had passed the carnival route some minutes after.

‘Fine Boy'

Two years after he left office, former governor of Cross River State, Donald Duke, is still a darling of the people. Shouts of ‘Fine Boy, we love you' trailed Duke and his wife, Onari, who led his band, Bayside, during the procession.

And the handsome former governor didn't disappoint. Apparently conscious of what the people wanted, Duke not only acknowledged the cheers and greetings, he obliged his crowd of admirers by dancing for them. He would continue dancing into the night even when his wife and members of the ban

d became fatigued.

Calabar Rocks

The city rocked throughout the 32 days of this year's carnival and festival. Artists including Keri Hilson, P-Square, Terry G, Tuface Idibia, Mighty Duncan, Muma Gee and several others performed at the music nights.

The biggest night was ‘Calabar Rocks.' Former member of The Fugees, Wyclef Jean, headlined the night where Weird MC, Sound Sultan, Bigiano and some home acts performed. The night would be one to remember for long because of the rich musical entertainment it offered and the fun added to it by diminutive comedian, Julius Agwu.

*text culled from 234next.com

Eta Uso (Jnr) - (MCTS, A+)

GLOBACOM NIGERIA; CORPORATE GIANT WITH A FAILED CUSTOMER SERVICE ON A GIANT SCALE.

2009-12-16T21:36:00.006Z

Globacom Nigeria Ltd, also known as Glo Mobile Nigeria, started business operations in Nigeria in the year 2003. No doubt, it brought the relieve we all Nigerians needed from expensive per minute call charges, by introducing the per second billing, thereby crashing the high cost of making calls using the Global System of Mobile Communications (GSM).

However, the true Glo Mobile Nigeria has unravelled itself. The same company (Glo Mobile Nigeria) that brought respite to the masses of Nigeria has now consciously shut its doors of communication (the only bridge to its end-users) against the same masses that were made to believe that they were a company for the people, for Nigerians and truly Nigerian.

A telecoms company (Globacom Nigeria Ltd); a supposed 100% Nigerian owned company, has now shut-out its own Nigerian subscribers, the same people who made them who they are today by virtue of their extensive and wide patronage.

Today, Globacom Nigeria Ltd also known as Glo mobile Nigeria, has proven to us that the feelings of Nigerians do not matter, as long as we continue using their services thereby keeping them in a good position in the telecoms market in Nigeria.

A company (Glo Mobile Nigeria); a 100% Nigerian owned company, operates a dormant and never reachable customer care line with customer careline number: 121 irrespective of the time of the day you call and a customer care email address: customercare@gloworld.com of which you never get replies and when you do get replies, you get replies which are unsatisfactory in regards to the complaints sent and this happens 95% of the time. Also, to get a response by email, a troubled Nigerian with an urgent complaint must send one mail repeatedly over ten times before you might be lucky to get a short reply that 95% of the time, does not satisfy you and in very rare cases, you might be lucky to get a call.

A Company (Glo Mobile Nigeria Ltd) with a customer service that could be said to virtually operate lucky dip draws with mails sent to the Customer Service Department and the lucky pick manages to get an unsatisfactory response most of the time.

Globacom Nigeria Ltd (Glo Mobile Nigeria); what a Corporate Brand with a Failed Customer Service on a Corporate Scale. Thanks for making Nigerians your slaves; for as long as we keep using your services, our complaints do not matter, otherwise if it did, you would give us a Customer Service that works.

Eta E. Uso
0805 2856 853
(A bonafide Glo Mobile Nigeria Subscriber)

Intercontinental Bank PLC

2009-08-28T08:11:00.006+01:00

This post is in reward to my bank (Intercontinental Bank PLC) for being a worthy service to me and its other customers.

Intercontinental Bank PLC, Nigeria, has been and is an epitome of excellence. Right from the door, you are welcome like a king and while inside, you are treated with respect. They do not base their respect on the value of money in your account. Everyone is treated with love and equity.

I must also commend Intercontinental Bank Plc for their innovation drive and also, because they do not believe in being second best. They always aim for the best, and we as shareholders and customers of the bank are living testimonies to that. As a student, the launch of the new Intercontinental Bank Prepaid MasterCard has made me register my presence on the internet without stress. Now I can shop online genuinely just like my foreign counterparts who had this monopoly for a long time now. I now also check my account statements online and confirm payments without needing to go to the bank premises, thanks to Intercontinental Bank’s INTERNET BANKING SERVICE.

I must also commend the Customer Service of Intercontinental Bank PLC, you guys are the best, both in customer interaction, quick and efficient replying of emails, telephone assistance and all, you guys rock.

Intercontinental Bank PLC has this slogan “HAPPY CUSTOMER, HAPPY BANK”, and I strongly lay my stamp of approval on it, because IT IS TRUE.

I am an account holder of Intercontinental Bank Plc (Nigeria) and I always cherish the day I opened an account in the bank.

You guys are great!!!

1st posted by me 2years ago on my previous blog @ TIG

Eta E. Uso

+2348052856853

ATM SECURITY

2009-08-22T17:21:00.009+01:00

ATM Security

ATMs keep your personal identification number (PIN) and other information safe by using encryption software such as Triple DES (Data Encryption Standard). But there are lots of things that you can do to protect your information and your money at an ATM.

Note: Your ATM PIN should be a number that you can easily remember, but that would not be readily available to thieves.

Bank ATM Security Advice

ATM bank cash machines have been incorporated in our way of life. They offer a real convenience to those on the run, but at the same time offer an element of risk. Using a bank ATM machine safely requires awareness and a little planning. Just because a bank ATM machine is open and available 24-hours a day doesn't mean it is always safe to use it.

ATM ROBBERY FACTS

Most bank ATM robberies occur at night between 7pm and midnight when the machine only produces 10% of the daily transactions. Between 7pm and 4am, the ATMs handle only 11% of the total daily transactions but suffer 60% of the crime.

Who Are the Robbers?

Bank ATM robbers are usually males under 25 years of age and most work alone. ATM robbers usually position themselves nearby (50 feet) waiting for a victim to approach and withdraw cash. Half of the ATM robberies occur after the cash withdrawal. Many ATM robbery victims are women and were alone when robbed. Most claim that they never saw the robber coming. Most ATM robbers used a gun or claimed to have a concealed weapon when confronting the victim and demanding their cash.

Pick a Safe Location

Use only bank ATM machines in well-lighted, high-traffic areas. ATMs inside busy supermarkets are considered safer. Don't use ATM machines that are remote or hidden such as being located behind buildings, behind pillars, walls, or away from public view. Beware of obvious hiding places like shrubbery or overgrown trees. ATM robbers like to have the element of surprise and no witnesses. Robbers like good escape routes like nearby freeway on-ramps or high speed thoroughfares.

Get a list of ATM locations from your bank and keep it in your car. Choose an ATM that looks and 'feels' safer, even if it is a couple of miles out of the way. Try and limit your use to daylight hours. Take someone with you after hours, if you can. When you drive up to an ATM location, scan the area for any suspicious persons. If you see anyone suspicious that is standing nearby or sitting alone in a car, drive away. When you approach an ATM on foot be prepared and have your ATM card ready. Memorize your personal PIN number to prevent loss and speed the transaction. After inserting your card and your PIN number keep an eye out behind you (the robbers always come from behind or the side). Never accept an offer to help or request for help from a suspicious male at the machine.

Be Alert

If anyone suspicious or seemingly dangerous approaches terminate your transaction and leave immediately, even if it means running away and leaving your ATM card in the machine. First, tell the suspicious male in a loud, firm voice to "back-off" and leave you alone. This is designed to startle the person and give you time to flee, if appropriate. It is far easier to apologize later or suffer a little embarrassment for your fear than to become a robbery victim. When you receive cash from the machine put it away immediately, extract your card, and walk away.

If you use your car at a bank drive-thru ATM machine the same rules apply. Make sure there are no obvious hiding places or suspicious persons loitering in the area. If there are, listen to your gut instinct and drive away. Keep your doors locked and the car in gear, with your foot firmly on the brake, while using the ATM machine. Keep a close eye on your rear and side view mirrors during the transaction. Robbers almost always approach from the rear on the drivers’ side. If you see anyone approaching, drive off even if it means leaving your ATM card behind. If you are confronted by an armed robber, just give up your money without argument. The cash is not worth serious injury or death. Get to a safe place and call the police immediately or preferably report to your bank immediately, especially in the case where you had to flee leaving your card behind.

Before I go ahead with the ATM Security precautions, let me take you back a little to how the ATM works;

How Do ATMs Work?

An ATM is simply a data terminal with two input and four output devices. Like any other data terminal, the ATM has to connect to, and communicate through, a host processor. The host processor is analogous to an Internet service provider (ISP) in that it is the gateway through which all the various ATM networks become available to the cardholder (the person wanting the cash).

Most host processors can support either leased-line or dial-up machines. Leased-line machines connect directly to the host processor through a four-wire, point-to-point, dedicated telephone line. Dial-up ATMs connect to the host processor through a normal phone line using a modem and a toll-free number, or through an Internet service provider using a local access number dialed by modem.

Leased-line ATMs are preferred for very high-volume locations because of their thru-put capability, and dial-up ATMs are preferred for retail merchant locations where cost is a greater factor than thru-put. The initial cost for a dial-up machine is less than half that for a leased-line machine. The monthly operating costs for dial-up are only a fraction of the costs for leased-line.

The host processor may be owned by a bank or financial institution, or it may be owned by an independent service provider. Bank-owned processors normally support only bank-owned machines, whereas the independent processors support merchant-owned machines.

You're probably one of the millions who has used an ATM. As you know, an ATM has two input devices:

• Card reader - The card reader captures the account information stored on the magnetic stripe on the back of an ATM/debit or credit card. The host processor uses this information to route the transaction to the cardholder's bank.

• Keypad - The keypad lets the cardholder tell the bank what kind of transaction is required (cash withdrawal, balance inquiry, etc.) and for what amount. Also, the bank requires the cardholder's personal identification number (PIN) for verification. Federal law requires that the PIN block be sent to the host processor in encrypted form.

And an ATM has four output devices:

• Speaker - The speaker provides the cardholder with auditory feedback when a key is pressed.

• Display screen - The display screen prompts the cardholder through each step of the transaction process. Leased-line machines commonly use a monochrome or color CRT (cathode ray tube) display. Dial-up machines commonly use a monochrome or color LCD.

• Receipt printer - The receipt printer provides the cardholder with a paper receipt of the transaction.

• Cash dispenser - The heart of an ATM is the safe and cash-dispensing mechanism. The entire bottom portion of most small ATMs is a safe that contains the cash.

THREATS TO ATM NETWORKS

Eavesdropping

Eavesdropping refers to the threat that the attacker connects or taps into the transmission media and gain unauthorized access to the data. It is one of the most common attacks to the network.

Spoofing

Spoofing attack means that an attacker tries to impersonate another user to the third part therefore can get access to resources belonging to the victim to take advantages or just destroy them. Spoofing might need special tools to manipulate the protocol data unit. And sometimes it might require the attacker has special access permission, say, must be the super user in UNIX environment. However, since a network will be connected to many untrusted networks via the Internet, it's impossible to prevent a hacker from getting this access permission or even trace the people with this particular access permission. ATM is being implemented in public domain. Therefore, it is subject to this kind of attack also.

Service Denial

ATM is a connection-oriented technique. A connection, which is called Virtual Circuit(VC) in ATM, is managed by a set of signals. VC is established by SETUP signals and can be disconnected by RELEASE or DROP PARTY signals. If an attacker sends RELEASE or DROP PARTY signal to any intermediate switch on the way of a VC, then the VC will be disconnected. By sending these signals frequently, the attacker can greatly disturb the communication between one user to another, therefore will disable the Quality of Service(QoS) in ATM. Combining this technique with other tricks like eavesdropping, the attacker can even completely block one user from another.

Stealing of VCs

If two switches in an ATM network compromise, the attacker can even steal a VC from another user. When we consider ATM internetworking, in which case cells will travel through different ATM networks, it will be very easy for two switches to compromise.

Traffic Analysis

Traffic analysis; refers to a threat that the hacker can get information by collecting and analyzing the information like the volume, timing and the communication parties of a VC. Volume and timing can reveal a lot of information to the hacker even though the data is encrypted, because encryption won't affect the volume and timing of information.

In summary once more, never forget this few ATM Security Tips;

• Be alert and conscious of your surroundings when using the ATM.

• Don't use an ATM machine located in a dark or obscure location

• Never give your card or PIN( Personal Identification Number) to anyone, for any reason.

• Be very conscious of persons hanging around the ATM machine

• Dont write your PIN on the card or anything that is kept with the card.

• Do not insert your card until asked to do so by the display screen

• Never use an ATM with a blank screen and, if the ATM is obscured from view or poorly lit, leave immediately and find another ATM.

• Stand close to the ATM and use your body and hand as shield to make sure nobody sees you keying in your pin

• Never accept help from strangers when using an ATM. You should be wary of strangers asking for help. The elderly, or physically challenged persons should take along with them trusted persons to assist them.

• Criminals work in teams- one to distract you while the other steals your card or money.

• If your card is retained (swallowed) by the ATM it is advisable to contact your bank immediately

• It is advisable to set a daily ATM withdrawal limit on your account.

• Sign up for SMS alert, so that you are alerted whenever any withdrawal is made in your account

Hope this helps alot out there.

Eta Uso (MCTS, A+)

+2348052856853