Atiku Proposes Six-Year Single Term for President in Letter to Senate

Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar has called for a constitutional amendment to establish a single six-year term for the President and state governors. In a letter to the National Assembly, Atiku urged the Senate Committee on Constitutional Review to consider rotating the presidency between the North and South across the six geopolitical zones.

He suggested amending Section 135(2) to limit the President’s term to six years, and also recommended raising the minimum educational qualification for candidates to an Ordinary National Diploma (OND). Additionally, he proposed granting political parties more authority in selecting candidates.

Breaking: Tinubu Confers National Honors on Akpabio, Others

President Bola Tinubu has awarded national honors as part of Nigeria’s 64th Independence Anniversary celebrations. In his October 1st address, Tinubu announced that Senate President Godswill Akpabio and Chief Justice Kudirat Kekere-Ekun have been conferred with the prestigious Grand Commander of the Order of the Niger (GCON) title.

Other prominent leaders, including the Deputy Senate President and Speaker of the House of Representatives, were honored with the title of Commander of the Order of the Federal Republic (CFR), while the Deputy Speaker of the House received the Commander of the Order of Niger (CON). The full list of honorees will be released soon.

Naira Continues to Fall, Hits ₦1,705 Per Dollar in Parallel Market

Nigeria’s currency, the Naira, has depreciated further, exchanging at ₦1,705 per US Dollar in the parallel market, down from ₦1,655 per dollar just a week ago. This reflects ongoing demand pressures and supply shortages in the market, leading to a significant decline.

The Naira’s recent depreciation follows a period of relative stability, where exchange rates fluctuated between ₦1,645 and ₦1,655 per dollar. Economic analysts link the decline to foreign exchange supply gaps, sparking concerns over increased prices for imported goods and inflation.

The official exchange rate also took a hit, dropping to ₦1,541.94 per dollar in the Nigeria Autonomous Foreign Exchange Market (NAFEM). Experts warn that this depreciation could signal a return to the steep declines seen in 2023.

Kwankwaso Declares NNPP as Fastest Growing Party, Says APC Has Grounded Nigeria, PDP Is Dead

Rabiu Kwankwaso, the 2023 presidential candidate of the New Nigeria Peoples Party (NNPP), has declared his party as the fastest-growing political force in Nigeria. Speaking during the NNPP’s National Executive Committee (NEC) meeting in Abuja, Kwankwaso expressed confidence in the party’s trajectory, thanking supporters for their dedication amid numerous challenges.

Kwankwaso also critiqued the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), declaring it “dead” and plagued with internal issues. Additionally, he criticized the All Progressives Congress (APC), accusing its leadership of being out of touch with Nigerians’ struggles, citing rising insecurity, poverty, and hunger as key failures of the ruling party.

Kwankwaso’s remarks emphasized the NNPP’s growth as a viable political alternative in Nigeria’s shifting political landscape.

Rivers State Governor Fubara Defies Court Order, Confirms Local Government Elections on October 5

Rivers State Governor, Siminalayi Fubara, has reaffirmed that the local government elections scheduled for October 5, 2024, will proceed as planned, despite a court ruling by the Federal High Court in Abuja. The court, presided over by Justice Peter Lifu, had barred the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) from releasing the voter register to the Rivers State Independent Electoral Commission (RSIEC) and prohibited security agencies from providing support for the election.

Justice Lifu criticized RSIEC for scheduling the elections without adhering to all relevant legal requirements. However, Governor Fubara dismissed the ruling, stating there was no legal barrier preventing the elections. He encouraged political parties and voters to prepare enthusiastically for the polls.

In a statement from his Chief Press Secretary, Nelson Chukwudi, Fubara stressed that the RSIEC had an order mandating the election, assuring that it would be fair and transparent. He also warned against any attempts to disrupt the election, asserting his authority as governor to ensure the process is conducted smoothly.

Dollar to Naira Exchange Rate: Black Market Rates for October 1st, 2024

As of October 1, 2024, the dollar to naira exchange rate in the black market, also known as the parallel market, shows that Bureau De Change operators in Lagos are buying a dollar for ₦1,695 and selling it for ₦1,700. The Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) maintains a different rate, with the official rate at ₦1,600 for buying and ₦1,601 for selling.

It’s important to note that the CBN does not recognize black market rates and advises individuals to conduct Forex transactions through banks.

In other economic news, the Nigeria Extractive Industries Transparency Initiative (NEITI) reported that oil companies owe the Nigerian government $6.17 billion in unpaid royalties and taxes. This debt includes $6.071 billion owed in royalties and gas flare penalties and additional amounts for petroleum profit taxes, company income taxes, and VAT.

Tinubu Highlights Progress and Reforms in Independence Day Address

On October 1, 2024, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu delivered a national broadcast to commemorate Nigeria’s 64th Independence Anniversary. In his speech, the president acknowledged the economic and security challenges facing the nation but reassured Nigerians that reforms are starting to yield positive results. Tinubu announced that Nigeria attracted over $30 billion in foreign direct investments within the past year and outlined efforts to combat terrorism and improve security across the country. He also emphasized agricultural advancements, youth empowerment initiatives, and fiscal reforms aimed at boosting economic growth and reducing the cost of living. Despite the challenges, Tinubu urged Nigerians to remain patient and united in the pursuit of a stronger, more prosperous future.

ACN Rejects Divisive Protest, Urges Nigerians to Prioritize National Unity

…Accuses Organisers for Non-Disclosure of Financial Inducement by Divisive Politician.

The Amalgamated Civil Society Organizations of Nigeria (ACN) has strongly condemned the planned October 1st protest, accusing its organizers of receiving funding from a notorious former North West Governor to destabilize the country.

Comrade Gbenga Ashiru Abiodun, National President of ACN, in a press statement issued to newsmen on Monday, said, “We urge Nigerians not to participate in this protest, as it is driven by a hidden agenda to undermine the government. The organizers have collected huge sums of money from a divisive North West Governor for the purpose of purveying their hidden agenda to unsuspecting Nigerian citizens.”

Abiodun emphasized that the protest’s primary aim is to cause chaos and anarchy, taking advantage of the country’s current economic challenges. “This protest is not about addressing the country’s problems but about advancing the interests of desperate politicians,” he added.

The ACN criticized the organizers for failing to disclose their financial backing, alleging that they have received foreign funding under the guise of protecting democracy and free speech. “We have received critical actionable intelligence on the foreign funding given to some select NGOs,” Abiodun revealed.

Abiodun expressed concern that the protest would only worsen the country’s economic situation and cause unnecessary harm to citizens. “Nigerians are going through a lot of hardship due to hunger and unusual hyper-inflation, but participating in a protest funded by a divisive politician is not the solution,” he said.

Instead, Abiodun advocated for constructive dialogue with the government to address economic challenges. “We must learn from past experiences and avoid actions that undermine our democracy,” he emphasized.

The ACN also criticized local rice producers and essential commodity traders for arbitrarily increasing prices of goods and services, exacerbating the country’s economic woes. “They are solely responsible for the hardship, hunger, and hoarding of foodstuff in our country,” Abiodun stated.

Abiodun praised political leaders who have patiently reclaimed their respective states through democratic principles, citing Governor Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso, Governor Isa Yuguda, Governor Aliyu Magatakarda Wammako, Senator Ahmed Sani Yerima, Governor Dauda Lawal, Governor Seyi Makinde, and Dr. Alex Otti as examples.

The ACN warned that relevant security agencies must deal with the shadowy characters involved in the protest, including those hiding under the guise of mediators, lawyers, and interlopers. “Anyone hiding behind transactional protest to cause breakdown of law and order is a security risk,” Abiodun said.

Abiodun declared that the ACN will not be a party to the subterranean plot by politicians masquerading as champions of democratic ethos. “We have resolved to declare organizers of the planned protest persona non grata for collecting money from politicians without disclosing such transactions to other stakeholders,” he announced.

The ACN urged Nigerians to resist the protest and instead advocate for peaceful and democratic means of addressing grievances. “Let us call a spade a spade for once. The sponsors of the protest should blame themselves for the backlash and whatever ugly outcome that may likely transpire during their protest,” Abiodun concluded.

Comrade Yakubu Abdullahi, General Secretary of ACN, echoed Abiodun’s sentiments, emphasizing the need for Nigerians to unite against divisive forces. “We must reject this protest and work towards a united and prosperous Nigeria,” Abdullahi said.

Furthermore, the ACN emphasized that the planned protest is a deliberate attempt to destabilize the country, and Nigerians must be vigilant. “We will not allow desperate politicians to hijack our democracy,” Abiodun warned.

The ACN called on all patriotic Nigerians to join forces in rejecting the protest and promoting peace and stability. “We must prioritize the interest of our country over personal interests,” Abiodun urged.

In conclusion, the ACN reaffirmed its commitment to promoting democratic values and rejecting any attempt to undermine the country’s stability.

UK Becomes First G7 Nation to End Coal Power, Marks Shift to Clean Energy

The United Kingdom has officially closed the chapter on coal-fired power, ending its 142-year history of coal use for electricity generation. As of September 30, 2024, the country decommissioned its last coal power plant, making the UK the first G7 nation to eliminate coal from its energy mix.

This milestone marks a significant step in the global transition towards renewable energy, with solar and wind energy now positioned to drive the UK’s energy future. The closure of the coal plant in Nottinghamshire highlights the country’s commitment to reducing carbon emissions and moving away from fossil fuels.

According to Ember, an energy think tank, coal generation across Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD) countries has declined by 52% since its peak in 2007, with renewable energy sources accounting for the majority of that reduction.

Dave Jones, Global Insights Programme Director at Ember, emphasized the symbolic importance of the UK’s transition: “Once, coal power was synonymous with industrial growth. Now, clean energy is fueling the industries of tomorrow.” The UK joins 13 other OECD countries that have already achieved coal-free power, with others aiming for a full phase-out by 2030.

In 2012, coal provided 40% of the UK’s electricity. By 2019, it had dropped to just 2%, and now stands at zero. The Ratcliffe-on-Soar power station, the last coal-fired plant, officially shut down as the country increasingly relies on clean alternatives.

Globally, coal’s decline is gaining momentum, with many emerging economies shifting towards renewable energy sources. However, some countries, like Türkiye and Japan, have experienced slower progress in reducing coal dependence.

As the UK and other nations move towards a coal-free future, renewable energy is not only replacing fossil fuels but is also positioned to meet growing electricity demands, particularly with the rise of electric vehicles and other green technologies. This historic shift in energy production underscores the increasing role of clean energy in combating climate change and securing a sustainable future.

Antoine Griezmann Announces Retirement from International Football: A Look at His French Legac

Antoine Griezmann, the French forward and former World Cup champion, has officially announced his retirement from international football at the age of 33 on September 30, 2024. Griezmann was a key figure in France’s 2018 World Cup victory and was the top scorer during Euro 2016, where Les Bleus finished as runners-up.

The Atletico Madrid star leaves behind an impressive legacy as France’s third-most capped player, with 137 appearances, and the fourth-highest scorer in the nation’s history, netting 44 goals. His versatility shone through during the 2022 World Cup in Qatar, where he adopted a deeper midfield role, helping France reach the final and earning the tournament’s Silver Ball.

Griezmann also holds the record for the most consecutive matches played for France, with 84 appearances between November 2016 and March 2024.

In a heartfelt message on Instagram, Griezmann reflected on his decade-long career with the national team: “Today, it is with deep emotion that I’m announcing my retirement from the France team. After 10 incredible years filled with challenges, successes, and unforgettable moments, it is time for me to turn a page and make way for the new generation.”

Griezmann first made his mark during the 2014 World Cup in Brazil and solidified his position in the squad ahead of Euro 2016. He scored six goals in the tournament, including crucial strikes in victories against Ireland, Iceland, and Germany, although France ultimately fell to Portugal in the final. His performance earned him the Golden Boot and the Player of the Tournament award.

During the 2018 World Cup, Griezmann continued to play a pivotal role, scoring in the last-16 and quarter-final victories and converting a penalty in France’s 4-2 win over Croatia in the final. His outstanding performances earned him a third-place finish in the Ballon d’Or that year.

Though France underperformed at Euro 2020, Griezmann’s transition to midfield rejuvenated his international career, particularly during the 2022 World Cup. Many considered him the best player of the tournament, and he would have claimed the Golden Ball had France won the final against Argentina.

Griezmann’s retirement marks the end of an era for French football, with fans and teammates alike paying tribute to his remarkable contributions to Les Bleus.