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States Challenge FG’s N600bn Allocation for N70,000 Minimum Wage

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State representatives at the recent Federation Accounts Allocation Committee (FAAC) meeting have voiced strong opposition to the Federal Government's decision to reserve an additional N600 billion from the federation’s revenue for the implementation of the new minimum wage. During the FAAC meeting held on August 16, 2024, it was revealed that the Federal Government transferred N200 billion into a non-savings account, bringing the total reserved funds to N595 billion. This decision, which affected the distribution of revenue to states, sparked significant debate among state finance commissioners. Akwa Ibom’s Finance Commissioner, Dr. Linus Noah, Delta’s Okenmor Tilije, and Ekiti’s Akintunde Oyebode were among those who raised concerns, arguing that the withheld funds should instead be distributed among the states to alleviate their financial difficulties. Despite an increase in gross revenue—from N2.48 trillion in June to N2.61 trillion in July—the FAAC distributed N1.36

Ten Fatalities as Shiite Group Clashes with Police in Abuja

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A violent confrontation between members of the El Zakzaky-led Shiite group and officers of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Police Command resulted in the deaths of ten people in Abuja on Sunday. The incident occurred in the Julius Berger area, escalating tensions in the city. Among the fatalities were both police officers and members of the Shiite group, with several individuals also sustaining gunshot wounds. The clash erupted when members of the proscribed Islamic Movement of Nigeria (IMN) allegedly launched an attack on a police checkpoint at Wuse junction. The FCT Police Command reported that the assailants were armed with machetes, knives, and improvised explosive devices—described as crude bombs made from kerosene-filled bottles. The violent encounter led to the destruction of three police patrol vehicles, which were set ablaze during the chaos. In response, police officers engaged in a fierce struggle to regain control of the area, leading to significant disrupti

Nigeria's Fiscal Deficit Surges to N13.50 Trillion in 2023, Exceeding Revenue by Over Three Times

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Source: BusinessDay  The Federal Government of Nigeria faced a daunting fiscal challenge in 2023, recording a staggering deficit of N13.50 trillion. According to BudgIT, a civic tech organization, the government's revenue for the year stood at N5.99 trillion, while its expenditure soared to N19.50 trillion—more than three times its earnings. A fiscal deficit arises when a government's total spending surpasses its revenue within a given year, necessitating borrowing to bridge the gap. This inevitably contributes to the nation’s escalating debt burden. In a statement released on their X (formerly Twitter) account, BudgIT cited the 2023 Fiscal Accounts Report by the Accountant General of the Federation, highlighting the alarming financial imbalance. Specifically, the deficit accounted for 225% of the total revenue generated by the government. Breaking down the revenue sources, BudgIT noted that N3.80 trillion was obtained from the Federation Account Allocation Committe

WAEC vs. GCSE Results: A Comparative Analysis of Nigeria and the UK’s Education Systems

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The release of exam results is a significant milestone for students around the world, marking the culmination of years of hard work and preparation. In Nigeria and the UK, two of the most recognized secondary school examination systems— the West African Senior School Certificate Examination (WASSCE) administered by WAEC and the General Certificate of Secondary Education (GCSE)—have seen contrasting outcomes, sparking debates on the quality and integrity of these educational assessments. Celebration in Nigeria vs. Disappointment in the UK In Nigeria, the recently released WAEC results have been a cause for celebration among many students and their families. Reports show a large number of students achieving A grades across most, if not all, of their subjects. These results are often seen as a testament to the students' hard work and the quality of education they receive. In contrast, the GCSE results in the UK have not sparked the same level of enthusiasm. Many students i

Top 10 Richest Churches in the World 2024

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Explore the top 10 richest churches in the world in 2024, showcasing the immense wealth and global influence of these religious institutions. Churches have long been central to communities, providing spiritual guidance and wielding considerable influence that often extends into financial realms. In 2024, several churches around the globe are notable not just for their religious significance but for the immense wealth they have amassed. These organizations manage vast assets, making them some of the wealthiest institutions in the world. Let’s dive into the top 10 richest churches in the world and examine how they have accumulated their fortunes. 1. The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, commonly known as the LDS or Mormon Church, tops the list as the richest church in the world. With an estimated wealth of $265 billion in 2023, the church has seen a significant increase in its assets, growing by nearly $29 billion fro

Mastering Asthma: Identifying Triggers and Taking Control of Your Symptoms

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Effectively managing asthma involves a multifaceted approach that integrates various aspects of health and well-being. Mastering asthma begins with understanding and controlling triggers while adopting strategies that support overall wellness. Here’s how incorporating holistic wellness tips can enhance your asthma management. Recognizing Asthma Triggers and the Benefits of Regular Exercise Identifying asthma triggers is crucial for effective management. These triggers can range from environmental factors to specific foods. By integrating benefits of regular exercise into your routine, you can strengthen your respiratory system and potentially reduce asthma symptoms. Exercise helps improve lung function, but it’s essential to choose activities that are safe for asthma sufferers and to follow any prescribed precautions. Healthy Eating Habits and the Importance of Hydration Maintaining healthy eating habits can play a significant role in asthma management. Incorpor

Holistic Wellness Tips for a Balanced and Healthy Lifestyle

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Achieving a balanced and healthy lifestyle requires a comprehensive approach that considers both physical and mental well-being. Holistic wellness tips offer valuable insights into maintaining overall health by addressing various aspects of life, from nutrition and exercise to mental health and stress management. The Benefits of Regular Exercise and Healthy Eating Habits One of the cornerstones of holistic wellness is the combination of regular physical activity and a nutritious diet. Benefits of regular exercise include improved cardiovascular health, enhanced mood, and increased energy levels. Pairing this with healthy eating habits—such as incorporating superfoods and immune-boosting foods into your diet—provides the body with the necessary nutrients to function optimally. Mental Health Awareness and Stress Management Techniques A holistic approach to health also emphasizes the importance of mental well-being. Mental health awareness is crucial, as it helps individuals r