Author: Lawal AbdulSalam Olawale

Ahead of August 1 nationwide planned protest, the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) has suspended the biometric clearance and the weekly Community Development Services for corps members nationwide.

 

The corps noted that this was necessary in view of the planned protest billed to hold between August 1-10, 2024.

This was disclosed in a memo sent to State Coordinators, Local Government Inspectors and Zonal Inspectors across the country

 

It read, “In furtherance to our earlier memo reminding corps members of the scheme’s policy prohibiting participation in any form of protest, all corps members are informed that biometric clearance and CDS activities are suspended with immediate effect. The date for the presumption of these activities will be communicated in due course.

 

“Due to this postponement of all NYSC activities, all corps members are directed not to wear their uniforms for any reason this week.”

The Inspector General of Police (IGP), Kayode Egbetokun, has directed police top brass to protect intending participants of the planned #EndBadGovernance protest slated for August 1 to 10, 2024.

 

 

 

This was contained in a letter by the IGP to the request of human rights lawyer Ebun-Olu Adegboruwa.

Adegboruwa, a Senior Advocate of Nigeria (SAN), had on July 26, 2024 written the IGP to provide police coverage for protesters.

 

The IGP, in his response letter dated July 29, 2024, directed senior police officers to attend to the request of the senior lawyer.

Egbetokun’s response was signed by his Principal Staff Officer, CP Johnson Adenola.

 

 

 

The IGP also requested to have a meeting with Adegboruwa in Abuja on Tuesday, July 30, 2024, “to deliberate further” on his request.

 

 

 

“I am to inform you that the Inspector General of Police has directed the Deputy Inspectors-General of Police (Operations and Intelligence), the Assistant Inspectors-General of Police (AIGs) in charge of Zonal Police Headquarters and the Commissioners of Police (CPs) in charge of State Commands across the country to attend to your request.

 

“I am to also inform you that the Inspector General of Police wishes to have a meeting with you at the Nigeria Police Force Headquarters, Abuja, on Tuesday, 30th July, 2024 to deliberate further on your request,” CP Adenola said.

 

 

 

The protest against economic hardship, which is gaining traction on social media, has been scheduled to be held across all states of the Federation as well as the FCT in August.

 

 

 

Prices of food and basic commodities have gone through the roof in the last months, as Nigerians battle one of the country’s worst inflation rates and economic crises sparked by the government’s twin policies of petrol subsidy removal and unification of forex windows.

The Nigerian Communications Commission has ordered telecommunications operators, telcos to immediately restore all phone lines blocked due to non-linkage of National Identification Numbers to SIM cards.

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Recall that many Nigerians were agog over what they perceived as restrictions by the NCC, which they felt were attempts to frustrate the August planned protest.

 

In a statement released by the NCC and sighted by Vanguard, Muoka stated that many telecom subscribers/consumers were unable to access their phone lines because of the inability of many telecom consumers to verify their NINs with their SIMs.

 

The statement read, “Over the weekend, many telecom subscribers/consumers were unable to access their phone lines due to their inability to verify their NINs with their SIMs. This resulted in their numbers being blocked by their telecom service providers in compliance with the laws and policies of the NIN-SIM linkage.

 

“Telecoms consumers and the public will recall the compulsory linkage of NIN with SIM, which began in December 2020, when the government directed telecommunication companies to bar unregistered SIM cards and SIMs that were not linked to NIN.

 

“Since December 2023, the Commission has reviewed the deadline a few times; April 15, 2024, was set as the deadline for the full network barring of subscribers with four or fewer SIMs that had unverified NIN details. This deadline was then reviewed to July 31, 2024, to give consumers more time to ensure their submitted NIN details are properly verified. Despite these extensions, many phone lines have yet to be linked with verified NINs.

 

“The objectives of this exercise by the Federal Government of Nigeria include enhancing national security and ensuring the national SIM ownership database is accurate. The NIN-SIM linkage policy aids in verifying and protecting users’ identities while also providing critical infrastructure that assures access to the benefits of a robust digital economy for the citizenry.

 

“The consumer is our priority. Therefore, considering the challenges the blockages have caused, the Commission has directed all operators to reactivate all lines that were disconnected over the weekend, given the short time available for consumers to undertake the verification of their NINs with their SIMs. Reactivated consumers are to note that this is for a limited period to allow them to properly link their NIN to their SIM.

 

Members of the public who have yet to verify their SIMs are encouraged to do so as soon as possible to maintain access to their lines.”

This simple, natural treatment can help with a variety of eye-related concerns.

 

If you have ever been to a spa or watched a spa treatment video, you might have noticed the act of placing cucumber slices on the eyes and wondered what this really does.

 

 

This simple, natural treatment can help with a variety of eye-related concerns, including puffiness, swelling, and dark circles.

 

3 benefits of placing slices of cucumber on your eyes

Here are three benefits of placing a slice of cucumber on your eyes:

 

1. Reduces puffiness and swelling

One of the most well-known benefits of placing cucumber slices on your eyes is their ability to reduce puffiness and swelling. Cucumbers have natural anti-inflammatory properties due to their high water content and the presence of antioxidants.

 

When applied to the eyes, the cool temperature of the cucumber slices can constrict blood vessels, reducing the fluid buildup that causes puffiness. The cooling effect of cucumbers can also be therapeutic.

After a long day or a poor night’s sleep, your eyes can feel tired and irritated. The cold temperature of cucumber slices can provide immediate relief, soothing tired eyes and reducing any redness or irritation. This makes cucumbers a great remedy after staring at screens for extended periods.

2. Hydrates the skin

Cucumbers are composed of about 95% water, making them incredibly hydrating for your skin. The skin around your eyes is delicate and prone to dryness, which can accentuate the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles.

 

Applying cucumber slices can help hydrate this sensitive area, promoting a healthier, more youthful appearance.

 

3. Lightens dark circles

Dark circles can be caused by a variety of factors, including genetics, lack of sleep, and dehydration. Cucumbers contain antioxidants, such as vitamin C and caffeic acid, which can help lighten the skin around the eyes.

 

Additionally, the hydrating properties of cucumbers can plump up the skin, reducing the shadowing effect that makes dark circles more noticeable.

 

How to use cucumber slices on your eyes

1. Chill the cucumbers: For best results, refrigerate the cucumber before use. The cold temperature enhances the soothing effect.

 

2. Slice thinly: Cut the cucumber into thin slices. This allows them to better conform to the shape of your eyes and maximise contact with the skin.

 

3. Apply to closed eyes: Lie down in a comfortable position and place a slice over each closed eye. Leave them on for about 10-15 minutes.

 

4. Repeat regularly: For ongoing benefits, incorporate this treatment into your skincare routine a few times a week.

 

Basically, cucumber slices for your eye care routine is an easy and cost-effective way to address common eye concerns.

 

Embrace this natural treatment and enjoy the refreshing benefits it brings to your eyes and overall skin health.

As the Season 9 edition of the Big Brother Naija reality show premieres, the organisers have unveiled this year’s theme and introduced the housemates who will compete for a grand prize worth millions of naira.

 

 

 

The theme for this year’s edition is ‘No Loose Guard,’ announced on the official Instagram page of Big Brother Naija.

 

This year’s host is Ebuka Obi-Uchendu, a former housemate and the consecutive anchor for multiple seasons of the show.

 

Zion and Chinwe

This year’s host is Ebuka Obi-Uchendu, a former housemate and the consecutive anchor for multiple seasons of the show.

 

Zion and Chinwe

The first set of housemates unveiled are lovers, Zion and Chinwe, who are openly dating and ready to show their love to the world. Their pair’s name is ZINWE

Fairme David and Michky

The next duo entering Biggie’s house is Fairme David and Michky, a pair united by their fitness goals, known as RADICALS.

 

DJ Flo and Rhuthee

Following them is a female duo, DJ Flo and Rhuthee, who go by the pair name FLORUISH. They are eager to take on the ‘No Loose Guard’ house and disrupt any romantic entanglements.

 

Chinne and Nne

The final pair introduced is an aunt and her niece, Chinne and Nne, bringing boundless energy to the house. Their dynamic duo name is NDI NNE.

 

Sooj and Topher (ACES)

The fifth pair, Soon and Topher, are known as ACES. Their shared passion for fashion brought them into the #BBNaija No Loose Guard house, and they are set to showcase their style and flair.

 

Shause and Victoria (SHATORIA)

The sixth duo, Shause and Victoria, go by SHATORIA. They met in Dubai and have been inseparable ever since. Their bond is strong, and they are ready to bring their dynamic connection into the #BBNaija No Loose Guard house.

 

Handi and Wanni (WANNI AND HANDI)

The seventh housemates are identical twins, Handi and Wanni. Known as WANNI AND HANDI, they bring character, energy, and a promise to electrify the BBNaija No Loose Guard house.

 

Ben and Tjay (BETA)

 

The eighth pair, Ben and Tjay, are known as BETA. They met on Twitter and form a dynamic duo with a striking balance. They are ready to take on the #BBNaija No Loose Guard house with their unique synergy.

 

Ocee and Ozee (MBADIWE TWINS)

The ninth housemates are identical twins, Ocee and Ozee, both lawyers and socialites. Known as the MBADIWE TWINS, they are here to set the record straight and clear any misunderstandings about them.

 

Damilola and Toyosi (TAMI)

 

The tenth pair, Damilola and Toyosi, are known as TAMI. They are set to bring a mix of crazy and calm vibes to the BBNaija No Loose Guard house. Damilola is outspoken, admitting she doesn’t take nonsense, while both are single but financially constrained.

 

 

Gov. Ademola Adeleke of Osun has scheduled Monday to dialogue with the organisers of the hunger protest in the state.

 

Adeleke, in a statement by his Spokesperson, Malam Olawale Rasheed, on Sunday in Osogbo, said that he would also meet with stakeholders including security agencies and civil society organisations.

The governor said that he had instructed his team to reach out to the representatives of various civil society groups and students for dialogue.

 

“I have instructed my team to organise a dialogue session on Monday where stakeholders can jaw jaw as part of peace-making in the exercise of their constitutional rights

 

The session will afford parties to list grievances and what they expect the government at all levels to do.

 

“ We will convey outcomes of the session to Mr President in Abuja.

 

“It will also be an opportunity to tell stakeholders what we are doing as a government to resolve the economic hardship facing our people,” he said.

 

Adeleke, who noted that the protesters have rights and liberty to protest, said there was need for peace and non-violent actions in the country.

Osun is a peaceful state where proactive steps are ongoing on food security, economic revival and state building to deliver good governance and dividends of democracy.

 

“We have to sustain the peace, even as we make our feelings about the state of the nation known to the leadership.

 

“We will listen and we will act in the best interest of the citizenry,” he said.