Governors of all 19 states in northern Nigeria are expected to spend three days in Washington DC next week at the invitation of the United States Institute of Peace (USIP).
They will be participating in the Northern Nigeria Governors’ Symposium from October 18 to 21 with civic leaders from the Senior Working Group of Nigeria and representatives of the Federal Government of Nigeria.
Organized by the institute with support of U.S. State Department’s Bureau of Conflict and Stabilization Operations, the upcoming Symposium is the second such event in as many years.
The first one which held in May 2014 discussed security challenges caused by the Boko Haram insurgency and strategies for stabilization and development in northern Nigeria.
Speaking on Tuesday at the pre-symposium media briefing, USIP Senior Advisors and former ambassadors, Princeton Lyman and Johnnie Carson said the institute’s Northern Governors’ symposium was designed to bolster Nigeria’s commanding stature in Sub-Saharan Africa by addressing causes of instability and seeking opportunities for durable peace in the north.
Describing the country as “a significant powerhouse”, whose position in Africa compares to that of India in Asia and Brazil in South America, Mr. Carson said Nigeria also became “one of the world’s premier democracy” after the epochal election of 2015.
Mr. Lyman, who was U.S. ambassador to Nigeria 1986 to 1989, said Boko Haram insurgency opened “new frontiers for engagement” and opportunity to address the “disconnect between political power and development” in northern Nigeria.
While all 19 governors got invitation to the Symposium, as of last week, only Governors Abdullah Abubakar (Bauchi), Kashim Shettima (Borno and head of the Northern Nigeria Governors Forum), Bello Masari (Katsina), Bako Lalong (Plateau) and Waziri Tambuwal (Sokoto) have confirmed their participation.
Minister of the Interior, Abdulrahman Dambazau, and Minister of Mines and Steel Development, Kayode Fayemi, have also confirmed their attendance.
The governors and other participants will meet with officials from U.S. government, public agencies and corporate bodies.
USIP’s Senior Program Officer for Nigeria, Oge Onubogu, said the visiting Nigerian governors will also meet with Steve Hayes, chairman of the Corporate Council on Africa and Gayle Smith, USAID director, to discuss project priorities for northern Nigeria.
USIP officials are confident that the upcoming Northern Governors’ Symposium will build on the tangible successes of the first symposium which, according to Ambassador Carson, include the growing confidence of democratic governance as evidenced by the laudable outcome of the 2015 elections and improved governance environment with lessening of the “disconnect between northern governors and the federal government”.
AM INTO PUBLISHING
Wednesday, 12 October 2016
OIL PRICE FALL AGAIN !
The price rally that followed the previous week’s breakthrough in production output freeze by members of the Organisation of Petroleum Exporting Countries, OPEC, appears to be buckling as crude oil price slipped a second day on speculation that the OPEC agreement to trim crude output will not succeed in reducing supply.
But OPEC Secretary-General, Mohammed Barkindo, said yesterday, that talks with Russia about limiting crude oil production have been very constructive.
Barkindo also said that most of the work on an agreement was already done and countries including Russia, Azerbaijan, Algeria and Venezuela, will still meet to “compare notes.” OPEC supply quotas will be decided at the group’s official gathering late November in Vienna. International oil prices had rallied since previous week from USD45 per barrel average in September to a year high of USD53.7 per barrel last weekend.
However, a major price reversal was again recorded on premium crude, Brent, yesterday when it fell 1.04 per cent to USD51.74, from USD52.28. Similarly, West Texas Intermediate for November delivery fell 76 cents, or 1.5 percent, to $50.03 a barrel on the New York Mercantile Exchange. Total volume traded was 8 percent above the 100 day average. Futures dropped as much as 1.8 percent in New York. Prices have climbed since OPEC agreed on September 28 to have a new production range of 32.5 million to 33 million barrels a day. The International Energy Agency, IEA, earlier this week, said that the agreement of OPEC to curb output for the first time in eight years, has “effectively abandoned” the free market policy adopted in 2014.
The policy refers to an international market in which countries do not restrict imports from, or exports to, other countries. In the agency October report, “while the new strategy could help erode the massive oil inventory overhang, there could be another surge in American output if prices rise to $60 a barrel.” The IEA explained that “Libya and Nigeria have seen their production severely curtailed by war and sabotage, while sanctions on Iran that restricted its oil industry were lifted in January, allowing Tehran to steadily increase its production since the start of the year.
All three nations increased their production in September and the group’s total output will remain around the current record levels until November.” The agency stressed that, OPEC pumped a record 33.64 million barrels of crude a day in September, returning volumes from Libya, Nigeria and Iran which are set to be exempt from the Algiers deal suggest that “bigger cuts” would have to be made by others, notably Saudi Arabia, to meet the agreed target. The IEA Executive Director, Dr Fatih Birol has said that energy efficiency is the one energy resource that all countries possess in abundance. “I welcome the improvement in global energy efficiency, particularly at a time of lower energy prices. This is a sign that many governments push the energy efficiency policies, and it works.” He maintained that, energy efficiency policies aim to deliver the maximum amount of social and economic benefit from the energy we use.
Adding that, “For that reason, they are essential tools for government action that have a real impact on global energy demand. For instance, car fuel economy standards around the world saved 2.3 million barrels a day of oil last year or 2.5% of the global oil supply,” Birol stated
But OPEC Secretary-General, Mohammed Barkindo, said yesterday, that talks with Russia about limiting crude oil production have been very constructive.
Barkindo also said that most of the work on an agreement was already done and countries including Russia, Azerbaijan, Algeria and Venezuela, will still meet to “compare notes.” OPEC supply quotas will be decided at the group’s official gathering late November in Vienna. International oil prices had rallied since previous week from USD45 per barrel average in September to a year high of USD53.7 per barrel last weekend.
However, a major price reversal was again recorded on premium crude, Brent, yesterday when it fell 1.04 per cent to USD51.74, from USD52.28. Similarly, West Texas Intermediate for November delivery fell 76 cents, or 1.5 percent, to $50.03 a barrel on the New York Mercantile Exchange. Total volume traded was 8 percent above the 100 day average. Futures dropped as much as 1.8 percent in New York. Prices have climbed since OPEC agreed on September 28 to have a new production range of 32.5 million to 33 million barrels a day. The International Energy Agency, IEA, earlier this week, said that the agreement of OPEC to curb output for the first time in eight years, has “effectively abandoned” the free market policy adopted in 2014.
The policy refers to an international market in which countries do not restrict imports from, or exports to, other countries. In the agency October report, “while the new strategy could help erode the massive oil inventory overhang, there could be another surge in American output if prices rise to $60 a barrel.” The IEA explained that “Libya and Nigeria have seen their production severely curtailed by war and sabotage, while sanctions on Iran that restricted its oil industry were lifted in January, allowing Tehran to steadily increase its production since the start of the year.
All three nations increased their production in September and the group’s total output will remain around the current record levels until November.” The agency stressed that, OPEC pumped a record 33.64 million barrels of crude a day in September, returning volumes from Libya, Nigeria and Iran which are set to be exempt from the Algiers deal suggest that “bigger cuts” would have to be made by others, notably Saudi Arabia, to meet the agreed target. The IEA Executive Director, Dr Fatih Birol has said that energy efficiency is the one energy resource that all countries possess in abundance. “I welcome the improvement in global energy efficiency, particularly at a time of lower energy prices. This is a sign that many governments push the energy efficiency policies, and it works.” He maintained that, energy efficiency policies aim to deliver the maximum amount of social and economic benefit from the energy we use.
Adding that, “For that reason, they are essential tools for government action that have a real impact on global energy demand. For instance, car fuel economy standards around the world saved 2.3 million barrels a day of oil last year or 2.5% of the global oil supply,” Birol stated
EFCC CARRIED OUT INVESTIGATIONS ON EX-GOVERNORS IN SOUTH SOUTH
THE Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, EFCC, has said that it was investigating some ex-governors and politicians in the South-South region.
Zonal Head, South-South, of the anti-graft agency, Mr Ishaq Salihu, dropped the hint yesterday, while briefing newsmen in Port Harcourt, Rivers State. He said that the code name for the category of politicians being investigated quietly by the commission was PEP, meaning Political Exposed Personalities, adding that over N500 million had been recovered from them.
Salihu said this year alone, the commission had recovered a total of N1,060billion, adding that it also secured 26 convictions. He said that most of the money recovered was lodged in a recovery account with the Central Bank of Nigeria, CBN, noting that those recovered for individuals were handed over to them. Calling on members of the public to feel free to send their petitions to the EFCC office in Port Harcourt, Rivers State, on economic and financial crimes related matters, Ishaq assured that all petitions will be treated accordingly. He said that the commission also arrested a lecturer of Federal University, Otuoke, “for offences bordering on issuance of dud cheques and obtaining by false pretence.
The significance of this case is that she is a serial offender having previously been arrested and arraigned by the commission before Justice R. Anikpo of the Rivers State High Court for the issuance of dud cheques and obtaining by false pretence,” he said!
Zonal Head, South-South, of the anti-graft agency, Mr Ishaq Salihu, dropped the hint yesterday, while briefing newsmen in Port Harcourt, Rivers State. He said that the code name for the category of politicians being investigated quietly by the commission was PEP, meaning Political Exposed Personalities, adding that over N500 million had been recovered from them.
Salihu said this year alone, the commission had recovered a total of N1,060billion, adding that it also secured 26 convictions. He said that most of the money recovered was lodged in a recovery account with the Central Bank of Nigeria, CBN, noting that those recovered for individuals were handed over to them. Calling on members of the public to feel free to send their petitions to the EFCC office in Port Harcourt, Rivers State, on economic and financial crimes related matters, Ishaq assured that all petitions will be treated accordingly. He said that the commission also arrested a lecturer of Federal University, Otuoke, “for offences bordering on issuance of dud cheques and obtaining by false pretence.
The significance of this case is that she is a serial offender having previously been arrested and arraigned by the commission before Justice R. Anikpo of the Rivers State High Court for the issuance of dud cheques and obtaining by false pretence,” he said!
NNPC, FRIS, NCS, FRSC AND OTHERS WERE INVITED TO THE SENATE TO ASCERTAIN FUND REAMING IN FEDERAL ACCOUNT
THE Senate, summoned the Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation, NNPC, Federal Inland Revenue Service, FIRS, Nigerian Customs Service, Federal Road Safety Corps, FRSC, and all revenue generating agencies to ascertain the amount fund in the federation account. It said agencies were expected to disclose to the Senate what they realised in a year, their contributions to the Federation Account, how the money was spent and if was in line with the constitution.
The Senate said the invitations, which would be in line with the report of the Auditor General of the Federation, on accounts of the Federation of Nigeria for the year ended December, 31, 2011, would centre around the annual financial statements, submission of accounts, statement of assets and liabilities, consolidated revenue fund and statement.
The agencies are to inform the Senate about the revenue inflows into the federation account, concessional rentals in arrears, revenue budget performance of collecting agencies, non- rendition of mandatory annual report by FAAC to National Assembly, among others. Speaking yesterday in Abuja when the Accountant General of the Federation appeared before the Committee Public Accounts, chairman of the committee, Senator Andy Uba, said the summon would enable the agencies explain to senators if what they spend was in consonance with what was budgeted and approved by the lawmakers.
According to the Senate, the NNPC will also appear to explain why it spent beyond its stipulated budget and who approved it. The Senate, however, took a swipe at the Accountant General of the Federation for not knowing what came in from the agencies, what did not come in and what was spent. He also said the Accountant General of the Federation failed in his responsibility to post treasury officers to the agencies as checks and balances.
At this point, the Accountant General of the Federation, Ahmed Idris, told the senators that he was handicapped, against the backdrop that agencies of government always chased away treasury officers sent to them as monitoring officers. Idris, who pleaded with the Senate to rescue them from the hands of the revenue generating agencies, said there were many agencies of government which money from budgets that were not accounted. He lamented that the office of Accountant General of the Federation cannot check them. Responding, chairman of the committee, Senator Andy Uba, said: “We will need to have the list of agencies that have rejected your staff to enable us invite them and enact laws that will empower you to carry out your job effectively. “The committee will ensure that there is transparency, probity and accountability in the management of public funds as well as ensuring that government financial transactions are conducted according to Financial Regulations, extant Acts and the Constitution.”
The Senate said the invitations, which would be in line with the report of the Auditor General of the Federation, on accounts of the Federation of Nigeria for the year ended December, 31, 2011, would centre around the annual financial statements, submission of accounts, statement of assets and liabilities, consolidated revenue fund and statement.
The agencies are to inform the Senate about the revenue inflows into the federation account, concessional rentals in arrears, revenue budget performance of collecting agencies, non- rendition of mandatory annual report by FAAC to National Assembly, among others. Speaking yesterday in Abuja when the Accountant General of the Federation appeared before the Committee Public Accounts, chairman of the committee, Senator Andy Uba, said the summon would enable the agencies explain to senators if what they spend was in consonance with what was budgeted and approved by the lawmakers.
According to the Senate, the NNPC will also appear to explain why it spent beyond its stipulated budget and who approved it. The Senate, however, took a swipe at the Accountant General of the Federation for not knowing what came in from the agencies, what did not come in and what was spent. He also said the Accountant General of the Federation failed in his responsibility to post treasury officers to the agencies as checks and balances.
At this point, the Accountant General of the Federation, Ahmed Idris, told the senators that he was handicapped, against the backdrop that agencies of government always chased away treasury officers sent to them as monitoring officers. Idris, who pleaded with the Senate to rescue them from the hands of the revenue generating agencies, said there were many agencies of government which money from budgets that were not accounted. He lamented that the office of Accountant General of the Federation cannot check them. Responding, chairman of the committee, Senator Andy Uba, said: “We will need to have the list of agencies that have rejected your staff to enable us invite them and enact laws that will empower you to carry out your job effectively. “The committee will ensure that there is transparency, probity and accountability in the management of public funds as well as ensuring that government financial transactions are conducted according to Financial Regulations, extant Acts and the Constitution.”
THE HUMAN RIGHTS AND ANTICORRUPTION GAVE FULL SUPPORT TO DSS ON THE APPREHENSION OF JUDGES
The Human Rights and Anti Corruption Coalition on Wednesday protested the angry backlash from some Nigerians on the State Security Services, SSS, over the agency’s recent arrest of some judges.
At the Ikeja Division of the Federal High Court, the protesters demanded a decisive action against corrupt judges in the country.
The group made the demands at a peaceful anti-corruption protest to the Federal High Court, Ikeja Division BBC Lagos.
”The arrest of seven judge of various courts exposed how bad the cancer of corruption has spread in our polity,” said Desmond Abiona, the Lagos coordinator of the group.
“We mourn not just because these judicial officers have been fooling us, we mourn because they were still able to get gullible citizens that are fighting for them by condemning the sequence of events and the process of their arrests.
Suddenly, arrests that were executed with valid warrants are being criticized by the same people who have been shortchanged by rogue judges all their lives. It is simply inconceivable.
An overnight assault on some senior judges in six states across the country by the SSS late Friday and early Saturday resulted in the arrest of some judges.
Officials of the SSS had told PREMIUM TIMES on Saturday that the operation was ordered after months of investigation, during which the secret police established credibly that the affected judges were involved in questionable financial dealings.
The crackdown generated heated debates across the country and, once again out Nigeria’s secret police mode of operation on the spotlight.
Of the 15 judges – from the High, Appeal, and the Supreme Court – said to be under investigation, seven were arrested during the weekend raid.
The seven judges were granted bail on Monday on self-recognition.
The protesters in Lagos challenged the arrested or indicted judges to exonerate themselves from the allegations from the SSS.
“We dare them to apply the same test of the law that they have applied to the masses on themselves and see if they will not spend the remainder of their natural lives in jail without the possibility of state pardon,” Mr. Abiona said.
Mr. Abiona also said in the coming days, some groups would be recruited by agents commissioned by the judges to hold protests alleging witch-hunt on the judiciary.
“We however want to clearly set out here that arrest of judges, or anyone found to have been corrupt is not witch-hunt, it is not politics and definitely it is not clamping down on freedoms,” he said.
img-20161012-wa008“Anyone that they contact to be part of protests either on the streets or in the virtual cyberspace would do well to identify and appreciate the issues:
In the number of years that we have returned to democratic rule, corrupt judges have been steadily eroding the gains of democracy.
“They have in some instances sold judgment to the highest bidders such that votes no longer count and millions of people are saddled with representatives and leaders they did not actually vote for.
The men and women who threatened our democratic freedom with their avarice have no right walking free when indicted, they should face the law they profess and bear their punishments if convicted.”
He further said the Nigerian Police Force could attest of their frustration in the hands of corrupt judges who turn dangerous robbers loose on Nigerian streets for money.
“Every family that has ever lost a loved one to the hails of bullets fired by judge-pampered robbers would attest to the fact that a corrupt judge is worse than a robber in that he wields a more deadly weapon as the scales of justices is superior to firearms,” Mr. Abiona said.
“Has anyone ever wondered why many of the killer kidnappers are not first timers? It is because corrupt judges always set them free everytime security agencies release them.
And yet, even the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA), whose members have been fair game to kidnappers can come out to speak in favour of the corruption that is keeping criminals on our streets.
“How many terrorists have we successfully convicted and put away for good? Not many. Corrupt judges will not allow it. They will rather receive bribes and allow killers roam the land with explosive belts and AK47 than deploy the judiciary as a tool for curbing terrorism.”
The group demanded that all the judges so far indicted or arrested for corruption immediately resign “considering the magnitude of the case that the DSS has built against them.”
“The cases of those that have been given lenient punishments that amount to a slap on the wrist by the National Judicial Council (NJC) should be revisited with a view to dragging them before a law court,” said Mr. Abiona.
“The DSS must widen its investigation to take in all the petitions that the NJC has ever discarded given the fact that the council has demonstrated amply that it tends to shield corrupt judge.”
At the Ikeja Division of the Federal High Court, the protesters demanded a decisive action against corrupt judges in the country.
The group made the demands at a peaceful anti-corruption protest to the Federal High Court, Ikeja Division BBC Lagos.
”The arrest of seven judge of various courts exposed how bad the cancer of corruption has spread in our polity,” said Desmond Abiona, the Lagos coordinator of the group.
“We mourn not just because these judicial officers have been fooling us, we mourn because they were still able to get gullible citizens that are fighting for them by condemning the sequence of events and the process of their arrests.
Suddenly, arrests that were executed with valid warrants are being criticized by the same people who have been shortchanged by rogue judges all their lives. It is simply inconceivable.
An overnight assault on some senior judges in six states across the country by the SSS late Friday and early Saturday resulted in the arrest of some judges.
Officials of the SSS had told PREMIUM TIMES on Saturday that the operation was ordered after months of investigation, during which the secret police established credibly that the affected judges were involved in questionable financial dealings.
The crackdown generated heated debates across the country and, once again out Nigeria’s secret police mode of operation on the spotlight.
Of the 15 judges – from the High, Appeal, and the Supreme Court – said to be under investigation, seven were arrested during the weekend raid.
The seven judges were granted bail on Monday on self-recognition.
The protesters in Lagos challenged the arrested or indicted judges to exonerate themselves from the allegations from the SSS.
“We dare them to apply the same test of the law that they have applied to the masses on themselves and see if they will not spend the remainder of their natural lives in jail without the possibility of state pardon,” Mr. Abiona said.
Mr. Abiona also said in the coming days, some groups would be recruited by agents commissioned by the judges to hold protests alleging witch-hunt on the judiciary.
“We however want to clearly set out here that arrest of judges, or anyone found to have been corrupt is not witch-hunt, it is not politics and definitely it is not clamping down on freedoms,” he said.
img-20161012-wa008“Anyone that they contact to be part of protests either on the streets or in the virtual cyberspace would do well to identify and appreciate the issues:
In the number of years that we have returned to democratic rule, corrupt judges have been steadily eroding the gains of democracy.
“They have in some instances sold judgment to the highest bidders such that votes no longer count and millions of people are saddled with representatives and leaders they did not actually vote for.
The men and women who threatened our democratic freedom with their avarice have no right walking free when indicted, they should face the law they profess and bear their punishments if convicted.”
He further said the Nigerian Police Force could attest of their frustration in the hands of corrupt judges who turn dangerous robbers loose on Nigerian streets for money.
“Every family that has ever lost a loved one to the hails of bullets fired by judge-pampered robbers would attest to the fact that a corrupt judge is worse than a robber in that he wields a more deadly weapon as the scales of justices is superior to firearms,” Mr. Abiona said.
“Has anyone ever wondered why many of the killer kidnappers are not first timers? It is because corrupt judges always set them free everytime security agencies release them.
And yet, even the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA), whose members have been fair game to kidnappers can come out to speak in favour of the corruption that is keeping criminals on our streets.
“How many terrorists have we successfully convicted and put away for good? Not many. Corrupt judges will not allow it. They will rather receive bribes and allow killers roam the land with explosive belts and AK47 than deploy the judiciary as a tool for curbing terrorism.”
The group demanded that all the judges so far indicted or arrested for corruption immediately resign “considering the magnitude of the case that the DSS has built against them.”
“The cases of those that have been given lenient punishments that amount to a slap on the wrist by the National Judicial Council (NJC) should be revisited with a view to dragging them before a law court,” said Mr. Abiona.
“The DSS must widen its investigation to take in all the petitions that the NJC has ever discarded given the fact that the council has demonstrated amply that it tends to shield corrupt judge.”
ARSENAL PLAYERS ON INTERNATIONAL DUTIES
ARSENAL PLAYERS ON INTERNATIONAL DUTIES!
☑The international break is over - and a host of Arsenal players were in action for their nations over the past fornight.
Want to know how they did❓
Read on for the complete round-up:
Germany
⚪🔴Mesut Ozil and Shkodran Mustafi
Germany 3-0 Czech Republic, Saturday, October 8
Germany 2-0 Northern Ireland, Tuesday, October 11
☑Mesut Ozil played the first 45 minutes while Shkodran Mustafi was a 70th-minute substitute in Germany’s 2-0 win against Northern Ireland. Julian Draxler gave Die Mannschaft the lead with a low strike from the edge of the box, before Sami Khedira scored his first international goal in more than two years to double the hosts’ advantage and secure three points for Germany. Ozil also exchanged passes with Mario Gotze to assist Thomas Muller in Germany's 3-0 win against Czech Republic.
England
⚪🔴Kieran Gibbs, Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain and Theo Walcott
England 2-0 Malta, Saturday, October 8
Slovenia 0-0 England, Tuesday, October 11
☑Theo Walcott played 61 minutes of England’s goalless draw at Slovenia. Substitute Wayne Rooney had the best chance to secure victory for the Three Lions, but curled inches wide from the edge of the box. Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain and Kieran Gibbs were unused substitutes for Gareth Southgate’s side. Walcott also played the first 68 minutes of England's 2-0 win against Malta at Wembley.
Switzerland
🔴⚪Granit Xhaka
Hungary 2-3 Switzerland, Friday, October 7
Andorra 1-2 Switzerland, Monday, October 10
☑Granit captained Switzerland for the first time in their hard-fought win in Andorra. Fabian Schar and Admir Mehmedi scored either side of half-time to put the visitors in control, but Alexandre Martinez pulled one back late on. Granit missed Switzerland's win over Hungary through suspension.
France
🔴⚪Laurent Koscielny
France 4-1 Bulgaria, Friday, October 7
Netherlands 0-1 France, Monday, October 10
☑Laurent Koscielny impressed as France won their World Cup qualifier in the Netherlands. Paul Pogba scored the only goal for Les Bleus in the first half. Laurent also played the full 90 minutes in the 4-1 win over Bulgaria. The Bulgarians took the lead at the Stade de France when Mihail Aleksandrov scored a penalty, but goals from Kevin Gameiro, Dimitri Payet and Antoine Griezmann sent the hosts in leading 3-1 at the break. Gameiro then found the net in the second half to complete the scoring.
Spain
🔴⚪Hector Bellerin
San Marino U21 0-3 Spain U21, Wednesday, October 5
Spain U21 5-0 Estonia U21, Monday, October 10
☑Hector Bellerin played the entirety of Spain Under-21s' convincing 5-0 victory over Estonia. Denis Suarez and Marco Asensio gave the hosts a two-goal lead at the break, before Munir's late brace and another from Asensio added further gloss to the scoreline. Hector also played the full 90 minutes as Spain ran out 3-0 winners over San Marino. Munir opened the scoring, before Suarez scored the visitors’ second goal. Jorge Mere rounded off the scoring.
Nigeria
🔴⚪Alex Iwobi
Zambia 1-2 Nigeria, Sunday, October 9
☑Alex Iwobi scored his first international goal as Nigeria won their World Cup qualifier in Zambia. The 20-year-old gave his country the lead with a well-struck volley after 32 minutes, and Kelechi Iheanacho extended the lead just before the break. Zambia pulled one back after the break but Nigeria held on for victory.
Egypt
🔴⚪Mohamed Elneny
Congo 1-2 Egypt, Sunday, October 9
☑Mohamed Elneny played 90 minutes to help Egypt to victory in Brazzaville. Hector Cuper's side had to come from behind against Congo, Ferebory Dore giving the hosts the lead midway through the first half. Mohamed Salah equalised shortly before half-time, and set up Abdalla El Said to score the winner.
Spain
🔴⚪Nacho Monreal
Albania 0-2 Spain, Sunday, October 9
☑Nacho Monreal played the entirety of Spain's World Cup qualifying win in Albania. The Arsenal defender, making his first appearance for his country since October 2013, set up Nolito to make it 2-0 after Diego Costa had opened the scoring.
Colombia
🔴⚪David Ospina
Paraguay 0-1 Colombia, Friday, October 7
Colombia 2-2 Uruguay, Tuesday, October 11
☑David became Colombia’s joint most-capped goalkeeper of all-time, playing in their 2-2 draw with Uruguay. Abel Aguilar put the hosts 1-0 up, with goals from Cristian Rodriguez and Luis Suarez turning the game on its head. A late strike from Yerry Mina saw the game end all-square. David captained Colombia and kept a clean sheet in a 1-0 win over Paraguay in Asuncion. Jose Pekerman’s side scored the only goal of the game in injury time through Edwin Cardona.
England U-21
🔴⚪Rob Holding and Calum Chambers
Kazakhstan U-21 0-1 England U-21, Thursday, October 6
England U-21 5-0 Bosnia-Herzegovina U-21, Tuesday, October 11
☑Calum played the second half of England Under-21s' 5-0 win over Bosnia and Herzegovina. Strikes from John Swift and Tammy Abraham sent England in with a two-goal lead at the break, before Josh Onomah, Duncan Watmore and Abraham added another three goals in the second period. Rob Holding was not involved. Rob and Calum both played the full 90 minutes as England booked their place at Euro 2017 with a 1-0 win over Kazakhstan. Demarai Gray’s sixth-minute goal was enough to secure qualification.
Chile
🔴⚪Alexis Sanchez
Ecuador 3-0 Chile, Thursday, October 6
Chile 2-1 Peru, Wednesday, October 12
☑Alexis played the full 90 minutes of Chile’s 2-1 win over Peru in Santiago. Arturo Vidal scored the game’s opening goal before Edison Peralta brought the visitors back on to level terms. Vidal then scored again with just five minutes left to play to seal the win. Alexis played the full match as Chile lost 3-0 to Ecuador in Quito. Antonio Valencia opened the scoring before Cristian Ramirez and Felipe Caicedo both struck to extend the hosts’ lead.
☑The international break is over - and a host of Arsenal players were in action for their nations over the past fornight.
Want to know how they did❓
Read on for the complete round-up:
Germany
⚪🔴Mesut Ozil and Shkodran Mustafi
Germany 3-0 Czech Republic, Saturday, October 8
Germany 2-0 Northern Ireland, Tuesday, October 11
☑Mesut Ozil played the first 45 minutes while Shkodran Mustafi was a 70th-minute substitute in Germany’s 2-0 win against Northern Ireland. Julian Draxler gave Die Mannschaft the lead with a low strike from the edge of the box, before Sami Khedira scored his first international goal in more than two years to double the hosts’ advantage and secure three points for Germany. Ozil also exchanged passes with Mario Gotze to assist Thomas Muller in Germany's 3-0 win against Czech Republic.
England
⚪🔴Kieran Gibbs, Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain and Theo Walcott
England 2-0 Malta, Saturday, October 8
Slovenia 0-0 England, Tuesday, October 11
☑Theo Walcott played 61 minutes of England’s goalless draw at Slovenia. Substitute Wayne Rooney had the best chance to secure victory for the Three Lions, but curled inches wide from the edge of the box. Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain and Kieran Gibbs were unused substitutes for Gareth Southgate’s side. Walcott also played the first 68 minutes of England's 2-0 win against Malta at Wembley.
Switzerland
🔴⚪Granit Xhaka
Hungary 2-3 Switzerland, Friday, October 7
Andorra 1-2 Switzerland, Monday, October 10
☑Granit captained Switzerland for the first time in their hard-fought win in Andorra. Fabian Schar and Admir Mehmedi scored either side of half-time to put the visitors in control, but Alexandre Martinez pulled one back late on. Granit missed Switzerland's win over Hungary through suspension.
France
🔴⚪Laurent Koscielny
France 4-1 Bulgaria, Friday, October 7
Netherlands 0-1 France, Monday, October 10
☑Laurent Koscielny impressed as France won their World Cup qualifier in the Netherlands. Paul Pogba scored the only goal for Les Bleus in the first half. Laurent also played the full 90 minutes in the 4-1 win over Bulgaria. The Bulgarians took the lead at the Stade de France when Mihail Aleksandrov scored a penalty, but goals from Kevin Gameiro, Dimitri Payet and Antoine Griezmann sent the hosts in leading 3-1 at the break. Gameiro then found the net in the second half to complete the scoring.
Spain
🔴⚪Hector Bellerin
San Marino U21 0-3 Spain U21, Wednesday, October 5
Spain U21 5-0 Estonia U21, Monday, October 10
☑Hector Bellerin played the entirety of Spain Under-21s' convincing 5-0 victory over Estonia. Denis Suarez and Marco Asensio gave the hosts a two-goal lead at the break, before Munir's late brace and another from Asensio added further gloss to the scoreline. Hector also played the full 90 minutes as Spain ran out 3-0 winners over San Marino. Munir opened the scoring, before Suarez scored the visitors’ second goal. Jorge Mere rounded off the scoring.
Nigeria
🔴⚪Alex Iwobi
Zambia 1-2 Nigeria, Sunday, October 9
☑Alex Iwobi scored his first international goal as Nigeria won their World Cup qualifier in Zambia. The 20-year-old gave his country the lead with a well-struck volley after 32 minutes, and Kelechi Iheanacho extended the lead just before the break. Zambia pulled one back after the break but Nigeria held on for victory.
Egypt
🔴⚪Mohamed Elneny
Congo 1-2 Egypt, Sunday, October 9
☑Mohamed Elneny played 90 minutes to help Egypt to victory in Brazzaville. Hector Cuper's side had to come from behind against Congo, Ferebory Dore giving the hosts the lead midway through the first half. Mohamed Salah equalised shortly before half-time, and set up Abdalla El Said to score the winner.
Spain
🔴⚪Nacho Monreal
Albania 0-2 Spain, Sunday, October 9
☑Nacho Monreal played the entirety of Spain's World Cup qualifying win in Albania. The Arsenal defender, making his first appearance for his country since October 2013, set up Nolito to make it 2-0 after Diego Costa had opened the scoring.
Colombia
🔴⚪David Ospina
Paraguay 0-1 Colombia, Friday, October 7
Colombia 2-2 Uruguay, Tuesday, October 11
☑David became Colombia’s joint most-capped goalkeeper of all-time, playing in their 2-2 draw with Uruguay. Abel Aguilar put the hosts 1-0 up, with goals from Cristian Rodriguez and Luis Suarez turning the game on its head. A late strike from Yerry Mina saw the game end all-square. David captained Colombia and kept a clean sheet in a 1-0 win over Paraguay in Asuncion. Jose Pekerman’s side scored the only goal of the game in injury time through Edwin Cardona.
England U-21
🔴⚪Rob Holding and Calum Chambers
Kazakhstan U-21 0-1 England U-21, Thursday, October 6
England U-21 5-0 Bosnia-Herzegovina U-21, Tuesday, October 11
☑Calum played the second half of England Under-21s' 5-0 win over Bosnia and Herzegovina. Strikes from John Swift and Tammy Abraham sent England in with a two-goal lead at the break, before Josh Onomah, Duncan Watmore and Abraham added another three goals in the second period. Rob Holding was not involved. Rob and Calum both played the full 90 minutes as England booked their place at Euro 2017 with a 1-0 win over Kazakhstan. Demarai Gray’s sixth-minute goal was enough to secure qualification.
Chile
🔴⚪Alexis Sanchez
Ecuador 3-0 Chile, Thursday, October 6
Chile 2-1 Peru, Wednesday, October 12
☑Alexis played the full 90 minutes of Chile’s 2-1 win over Peru in Santiago. Arturo Vidal scored the game’s opening goal before Edison Peralta brought the visitors back on to level terms. Vidal then scored again with just five minutes left to play to seal the win. Alexis played the full match as Chile lost 3-0 to Ecuador in Quito. Antonio Valencia opened the scoring before Cristian Ramirez and Felipe Caicedo both struck to extend the hosts’ lead.
©Copyright 2016 The Arsenal Football Club plc.
FOOTB⚽ LL NEWS
FOOTB⚽ LL NEWS
Leicester have joined Lazio and Lyon in the battle to sign Ludogorets' highly-rated Brazilian forward Jonathan Cafu.
Antonio Conte must cough up at least £50m this January for Milan centre-half Alessio Romagnoli.
Tottenham are leading the Premier League race for Peterborough wonderkid Leo Da Silva Lopes.
Sir Alex Ferguson 'flipped' when David Beckham asked if he could arrive to Manchester United training 'in a helicopter,' claims ex-player Mads Timm in new book.
Phil Neville has turned down an approach from Aston Villa to join their new backroom staff - as he is focused on becoming a manager.
Atletico Madrid are trying to tie down Yannick Carrasco to a new deal - to fend off Chelsea. The Blues have been keeping close tabs on the Belgium international forward and regard the 23-year-old as a potential target next summer.
Arsenal midfielder Alex Iwobi has revealed he was "a bit scared" after being followed on his drive home by a Gunners fan after a recent match.
Chelsea winger Willian, linked with a move to PSG, has revealed he wants to finish his career at Stamford Bridge.
Xherdan Shaqiri's brother and agent claims the Stoke star could be a target for Italian side Roma in January.
Aston Villa players are expecting Steve Bruce to become their new manager this week.
Georginio Wijnaldum should discover on Wednesday if he has any chance of being fit for Liverpool's MNF clash with Manchester United after injuring his hamstring in Holland's World Cup qualifier against France.
Championship side QPR are being mocked by fans of other clubs after launching a campaign urging their supporters to make more noise at home matches.
Chelsea will consider a safe standing area at a rebuilt Stamford Bridge - but only if the government change the laws. Planning proposals have been submitted for a £500m project.
Czech Republic legend Pavel Nedved has revealed the biggest regret he had during his career was not playing for Manchester United.
Sevilla are looking to open talks over a new contract for Steven N'Zonzi amid increased interest from Premier League clubs.
Valencia hope to sign Mexican striker Javier Hernandez in the January transfer window and are prepared to pay £40m and trigger his buy-out clause.
Atletico Madrid are reportedly set to offer Yannick Carrasco an improved contract to see off interest from Chelsea.
Paul Pogba will reach the heights for Manchester United, according to France team-mate Hugo Lloris.
Leighton Baines is set to return to Everton's line-up for Saturday's showdown with Manchester City.
Tottenham have held a meeting with Brazilian left-back Guilherme Arana, according to reports.
Chelsea are lining up a sensational move for Real Madrid captain Sergio Ramos, according to reports.
The former head of English football's professional referees has described the decision to select Greater Manchester-based official Anthony Taylor for next Monday's meeting between Liverpool and Manchester United as "grossly unfair".
Nemanja Matic has praised N'Golo Kante's impressive start to life at Chelsea and acknowledged his role within the side "is not easy".
Steve Bruce will be confirmed as the new manager of Aston Villa on Wednesday.
There were huge celebrations in Norway from visiting San Marino after they scored their first goal away from home for 15 years thanks to Mattia Stefanelli's equaliser.
Three goals in the last 13 minutes saved Norway's blushes though.
Manchester City forward Kevin de Bruyne's hamstring injury is swiftly on the mend and the Belgium star could be ready to face Everton on Saturday and Barcelona in the Champions League the following Wednesday.
LAGOS ABDUCTED STUDENTS - FAMILY BEG TO SWAP RELATIVES FOR ABDUCTED STUDENTS
Family members of one of the ailing students that was abducted by suspected militants last Thursday, at the Lagos State Model College, Igbonla, in Eredo Local Council Development Area of Epe, have appealed to the abductors to release their relative for treatment, saying they were ready to swap another family member for the sick captive.
The family said it had managed to raise N1 million, which was contributed by relatives and friends. A strange call, suspected to be from the kidnappers, was received at 1.35p.m. yesterday, but the person at the other end was said to be silent. A relative, who spoke on condition of anonymity, said:
“My sister received a call. But the person refused to talk. Even at that, she begged the unknown caller to release our relative. “She told them that we have been able to raise N1 million and are ready to swap any of us with the ailing relative. ”
Another call also came at 6.15p.m., where the caller warned that their patience was being over-stretched, following the delay in payment of ransom. … as students return to school.
Meanwhile, some students, whose parents hurriedly took home in panic last Thursday, returned to the school yesterday. Most of those sighted were Junior Secondary School 1 students, who were resuming for the new term.
Security operatives in the school include officers of the Rapid Response Squad, RRS, and two neighbourhood watch vans that drove in at 11a.m., to take over from their colleagues that had been on ground. A female member of staff, who spoke with Vanguard, said:
“You can’t abandon your home because something bad happened. All you need do is to beef up security. “This is our home and these are our children too. Not to carry on with activities is to put tension in the children.”
The family said it had managed to raise N1 million, which was contributed by relatives and friends. A strange call, suspected to be from the kidnappers, was received at 1.35p.m. yesterday, but the person at the other end was said to be silent. A relative, who spoke on condition of anonymity, said:
“My sister received a call. But the person refused to talk. Even at that, she begged the unknown caller to release our relative. “She told them that we have been able to raise N1 million and are ready to swap any of us with the ailing relative. ”
Another call also came at 6.15p.m., where the caller warned that their patience was being over-stretched, following the delay in payment of ransom. … as students return to school.
Meanwhile, some students, whose parents hurriedly took home in panic last Thursday, returned to the school yesterday. Most of those sighted were Junior Secondary School 1 students, who were resuming for the new term.
Security operatives in the school include officers of the Rapid Response Squad, RRS, and two neighbourhood watch vans that drove in at 11a.m., to take over from their colleagues that had been on ground. A female member of staff, who spoke with Vanguard, said:
“You can’t abandon your home because something bad happened. All you need do is to beef up security. “This is our home and these are our children too. Not to carry on with activities is to put tension in the children.”
DIKKO SHOUTS OUT: AN ATTEMPT TO APPREHEND ME IS OUTRAGEOUS
The chairman, League Management Company (LMC), Mallam Shehu Dikko has described the latest attempt by policemen to arrest him as outrageous and bad publicity for the national team. Two unidentified policemen in mufti had attempted to arrest Dikko at the Nnamdi Azikiwe Airport on Sunday night on his way back from Zambia with the Super Eagles.
The policemen had fired shots into the air, threatening to shoot anybody who tried to stand on their way. Reacting to this development, Dikko, through Whatsapp chat, said it was a sad development and very outrageous.
It was a bad publicity for the national team who just recorded a major victory on its way to the 2018 World Cup. The scenario whereby the policemen fired gunshots really scared many of the players who expressed reservation of honouring national team assignments in future because their lives were not secure,” he said.
The LMC boss further stated that: “I have eight police officers attached to my house and others to my office by the Abuja CP on the orders of the Inspector General of Police, so if it’s true that my attention was needed by Abuja CP, why can’t he send for me through one of the police officers attached to me, so that means those officers have different plans.
Dikko, who also doubles as the second vice-president, NFF, however, informed that the matter had been reported to the office of the IGP “as our safety is surely being compromised”. He added that he is a law abiding citizen who has done nothing wrong to deserve such embarrassment from the police officers who could not even identify themselves. “We are following the law as law-abiding citizens and to close all issues. “We didn’t break any laws anywhere and the matters are subject to jurisdiction of the court of appeal. It’s within our right and law to take any matter to court of appeal and we would not take any steps that will compromise the appeal court process”.
The policemen had fired shots into the air, threatening to shoot anybody who tried to stand on their way. Reacting to this development, Dikko, through Whatsapp chat, said it was a sad development and very outrageous.
It was a bad publicity for the national team who just recorded a major victory on its way to the 2018 World Cup. The scenario whereby the policemen fired gunshots really scared many of the players who expressed reservation of honouring national team assignments in future because their lives were not secure,” he said.
The LMC boss further stated that: “I have eight police officers attached to my house and others to my office by the Abuja CP on the orders of the Inspector General of Police, so if it’s true that my attention was needed by Abuja CP, why can’t he send for me through one of the police officers attached to me, so that means those officers have different plans.
Dikko, who also doubles as the second vice-president, NFF, however, informed that the matter had been reported to the office of the IGP “as our safety is surely being compromised”. He added that he is a law abiding citizen who has done nothing wrong to deserve such embarrassment from the police officers who could not even identify themselves. “We are following the law as law-abiding citizens and to close all issues. “We didn’t break any laws anywhere and the matters are subject to jurisdiction of the court of appeal. It’s within our right and law to take any matter to court of appeal and we would not take any steps that will compromise the appeal court process”.
MONARCH RIVALRY ENDS AS OLUBADAN VISITED ALAFIN
OYO—A 17-year old royal rivalry between the Olubadan of Ibadanland, Oba Saliu Adetunji, Aje Ogungunniso I, and the Alaafin of Oyo, Oba Lamidi Adeyemi ended, yesterday, as the Olubadan of Ibadanland and members of Olubadan-in-council visited Oba Adeyemi in his palace at Oyo town.
Oba Adetunji explained that the purpose of his visit was to thank Alaafin for his presence at his coronation on Friday March 4, 2016, at the Mapo Hall Arcade, Ibadan.
He also disclosed that the visit was to strengthen the cord of unity that binds the two ancient cities together and to promote unity among the Yoruba traditional rulers.
While responding, Oba Adeyemi said he had no problem with the Olubadan describing their relationship as being cordial.
The monarch promised more cordial relationship between the people of Ibadanland and Oyo Kingdom, noting that his relationship with Oba Adeyemi was far back his coronation in 1971.
He prayed for more fruitful years for the Alaafin and himself on the thrones which their ancestors bestowed on them.
While responding, Oba Adeyemi said he had no problem with the Olubadan describing their relationship as being cordial.
Oba Adeyemi used the opportunity to advise those who relish in kidnapping others to refrain from doing so.
On the entourage of Oba Adetunji were Otun Olubadan of Ibadanland, Senator Lekan Balogun; Balogun of Ibadanland, Chief Owolabi Olakuleyin; Otun Balogun, Dr. Olufemi Olaifa; Osi Balogun, Chief Tajudeen Ajibola; Asipa Olubadan, Chief Eddy Oyewole; Ekerin Olubadan, Chief Abiodun Kola-Daisi; Ekerin Balogun, Chief Gbadamosi Adebimpe; Ekarun Olubadan, Chief Hamidu Ajibade.
Others included Maye Olubadan, Chief Adebayo Akande; Agbaakin Olubadan, Oloye Lekan Alabi; Aare Alaasa of Ibadanland, Chief Lateef Oyelade; Ayingun Balogun of Ibadanland, Chief Abiodun Alli; and Lagunna Olubadan, Chief Ademola Odunade.
Oba Adetunji explained that the purpose of his visit was to thank Alaafin for his presence at his coronation on Friday March 4, 2016, at the Mapo Hall Arcade, Ibadan.
He also disclosed that the visit was to strengthen the cord of unity that binds the two ancient cities together and to promote unity among the Yoruba traditional rulers.
While responding, Oba Adeyemi said he had no problem with the Olubadan describing their relationship as being cordial.
The monarch promised more cordial relationship between the people of Ibadanland and Oyo Kingdom, noting that his relationship with Oba Adeyemi was far back his coronation in 1971.
He prayed for more fruitful years for the Alaafin and himself on the thrones which their ancestors bestowed on them.
While responding, Oba Adeyemi said he had no problem with the Olubadan describing their relationship as being cordial.
Oba Adeyemi used the opportunity to advise those who relish in kidnapping others to refrain from doing so.
On the entourage of Oba Adetunji were Otun Olubadan of Ibadanland, Senator Lekan Balogun; Balogun of Ibadanland, Chief Owolabi Olakuleyin; Otun Balogun, Dr. Olufemi Olaifa; Osi Balogun, Chief Tajudeen Ajibola; Asipa Olubadan, Chief Eddy Oyewole; Ekerin Olubadan, Chief Abiodun Kola-Daisi; Ekerin Balogun, Chief Gbadamosi Adebimpe; Ekarun Olubadan, Chief Hamidu Ajibade.
Others included Maye Olubadan, Chief Adebayo Akande; Agbaakin Olubadan, Oloye Lekan Alabi; Aare Alaasa of Ibadanland, Chief Lateef Oyelade; Ayingun Balogun of Ibadanland, Chief Abiodun Alli; and Lagunna Olubadan, Chief Ademola Odunade.
ALGERIA COACH PLAN TO BEAT EGLE IN NIGERIA
Algeria coach Milovan Rajevac has expressed his disappointment at his side’s 1-1 draw with Cameroon in their opening group stage qualifier for the 2018 World Cup.
The Fennec Foxes were held to a home draw in Blida by the Indomitable Lions last Sunday night. Hilel Soudani put the home side ahead, but the visitors responded through Benjamin Moukandjo to claim a valuable point on the road. “We played to win – all the players did their best to achieve the target,” Rajevac told the post game press conference. ; “We are upset with this result as we failed to beat Cameroon in the beginning of the qualifiers,” the former Ghana coach explained, before adding, “If we replayed the game again I would make some changes in the starting lineup.”
Algeria's players celebrate at the end of the Group H football match between South Korea and Algeria at the Beira-Rio Stadium in Porto Alegre during the 2014 FIFA World Cup on June 22, 2014. Algeria won 4-2. AFP PHOTO / PEDRO UGARTE The Serbian went on, “I have to watch the game again to understand the reason for our dip in form after leading.”
Algeria’s next match in the 2018 qualifiers sees them travel to Nigeria in less than a month’s time. The Super Eagles top the group with three points following their 2-1 away victory over Zambia.
We will try to call-up the applicable squad for the Nigeria game, who are leading the group,” the Algeria coach said. We will face a difficult opponent in Nigeria. “We will make use of Cameroon’s draw and work not to repeat our mistakes in the coming games,” Rajevac concluded.
The Fennec Foxes were held to a home draw in Blida by the Indomitable Lions last Sunday night. Hilel Soudani put the home side ahead, but the visitors responded through Benjamin Moukandjo to claim a valuable point on the road. “We played to win – all the players did their best to achieve the target,” Rajevac told the post game press conference. ; “We are upset with this result as we failed to beat Cameroon in the beginning of the qualifiers,” the former Ghana coach explained, before adding, “If we replayed the game again I would make some changes in the starting lineup.”
Algeria's players celebrate at the end of the Group H football match between South Korea and Algeria at the Beira-Rio Stadium in Porto Alegre during the 2014 FIFA World Cup on June 22, 2014. Algeria won 4-2. AFP PHOTO / PEDRO UGARTE The Serbian went on, “I have to watch the game again to understand the reason for our dip in form after leading.”
Algeria’s next match in the 2018 qualifiers sees them travel to Nigeria in less than a month’s time. The Super Eagles top the group with three points following their 2-1 away victory over Zambia.
We will try to call-up the applicable squad for the Nigeria game, who are leading the group,” the Algeria coach said. We will face a difficult opponent in Nigeria. “We will make use of Cameroon’s draw and work not to repeat our mistakes in the coming games,” Rajevac concluded.
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