Paradise News

Tag: Nigeria

  • Operations Manager at Stivlon Consulting April, 2025

    Never pay for any CBT, test or assessment as part of any recruitment process. When in doubt, contact us

    Job Summary

    • The Operations Manager will oversee the day-to-day planning and implementation of event operations. This includes managing logistics, coordinating suppliers and internal teams, ensuring timelines and budgets are met, and maintaining high standards of quality control throughout.

    Key Responsibilities

    Event Operations & Logistics:

    • Plan and execute end-to-end event logistics, including setup, dismantling, and vendor coordination

    • Develop detailed operational plans and checklists for each event

    • Coordinate transportation, warehousing, and inventory of event materials

    Team & Vendor Management:

    • Supervise on-site event teams, support staff, and vendors to ensure adherence to plans

    • Liaise with suppliers for timely delivery of goods and services

    • Resolve any operational issues swiftly and effectively on-site

    Budget & Resource Management:

    • Track operations-related expenses against approved budgets

    • Identify cost-saving opportunities without compromising quality

    • Source vendors and negotiate rates for logistics, equipment, and services

    Process Optimization:

    • Streamline workflows for setup, logistics, and execution

    • Implement operational best practices and enforce safety procedures

    • Prepare post-event operations reports for analysis and improvement

    Cross-Functional Coordination:

    • Work closely with project managers, creatives, and technical teams to align deliverables

    • Attend planning meetings to contribute operational input and flag potential risks

    • Maintain accurate documentation and communication across departments

    Qualifications & Experience

    • Bachelor’s Degree in Business Administration, Logistics, Event Management, or a related field

    • 5 to 8 years of progressive experience managing operations and logistics in the events industry

    • Proven track record of leading successful event setups from concept to execution

    • Experience working in a fast-paced environment, managing multiple events simultaneously

    Key Skills & Competencies:

    • Excellent organizational and project management skills

    • Strong leadership with the ability to manage teams under pressure

    • Proficient in MS Excel, event planning tools, and logistics tracking systems

    • Excellent negotiation, communication, and problem-solving abilities

    • High attention to detail, time management, and adaptability

    What We Offer:

    • A collaborative work environment with exciting event projects

    • Competitive salary and opportunity for performance-based bonuses

    • Professional development and leadership growth opportunities

    • A fast-paced, creative, and impact-driven team culture.

    Click Here To Apply

  • Northern politicians have failed the region

    Kaduna State Governor,  Uba Sani, says northern politicians have failed the region and must apologise to the people. 

    He spoke in an interview with TRUST TV. 

    He added that the government of the day must allow criticism but it should be rooted in the interest of the people, not driven by a quest for power. 

    “Every democracy must allow criticism, but it must be constructive, and in the interest of the Nigerian people. That’s what we did as activists — not because we wanted power,” he said. 

    “But when you attack the government and you’ve been part of it… Anyone — like I said — who is from northern Nigeria and held a political office in the last 20 years, we all need to look at ourselves in the mirror and apologise to the people of northern Nigeria. We let them down.” 

    Sani admitted being part of the system and said northern Nigeria’s challenges stem from decades of underdevelopment and neglect. 

    “I’ll say it here today — all of us; I was a senator in this country, and the problems of northern Nigeria didn’t start two years ago,” he said. 

    “We’re talking about developments — or lack thereof — over the past 20 years; I can give you the data and statistics next time we meet. 

    “I chaired a committee on banking, so I know the poverty index of northern Nigeria. I know how many people, as we speak, are financially excluded.” 

    The governor said despite massive social intervention spending under former president Muhammadu Buhari, the region grew even worse due to systemic exclusion. 

    “Don’t forget, when Buhari was president — people forget this — he spent hundreds of billions on social interventions,” he said. 

    “But I’ll tell you why the north became poorer even after that. Because 70% of the population in northern Nigeria — especially the masses — were completely financially excluded. 

    “If you’re a former senator, a former member of the house of representatives, a former governor, a former minister, or even a former vice-president from northern Nigeria in the last 20 years — you’re part of the problem. All of us.” 

    The governor asked political leaders to avoid deceiving citizens with dishonest claims, while expressing respect for critics who speak truthfully and uphold genuine ethical principles. 

    “And that’s why I believe we must not deceive the people of northern Nigeria. We must not mislead them,” Sani said. 

    “That’s why I said earlier, I’ve no problem with people criticising the government — people like Dan Bello Galadanchi. 

    All those individuals, I can tell you, have the moral right to criticise this government. But those who were part of the rot and are now saying they’ve repented — please, I think that’s wrong.”

    Source: Linda Ikeji

  • Raw material bill threatens Nigerian exporters, manufacturers —CPPE warns

    The Centre for the Promotion of Private Enterprise, CPPE, has criticized the proposed Raw Materials Bill currently before the Nigerian National Assembly saying it will bring significant adverse and unintended consequences for Nigerian exporters and manufacturers if passed.

    The bill, which seeks to restrict manufacturers from importing essential raw materials and intends to impose barriers on exports, is awaiting passage by the National Assembly.

    The economic think tank, therefore, called for the bill to be withdrawn.

    Chief Executive Officer of CPPE, Dr Muda Yusuf, made this known in a statement sent to Ripples Nigeria on Monday, April 21, 2025.

    The statement reads, “On the face of it, the idea of promoting local value addition is good for the economy and potentially enhances the chances of better earnings from our exports. But the policy has to ensure a balance between the interests of exporters of primary products and the processors. It is also imperative to undertake a robust study on domestic raw materials availability before legislating a ban on raw materials for manufacturers.

    “What is needed is a win-win proposition, not a zero-sum game. The current proposal in the bill will penalise exporters in the country, most of whom export primary products. Thousands of jobs in the primary products export supply chain would be put at risk. The major non-oil exports are cocoa beans and cocoa butter, cashew nuts, gum arabic, ginger, sesame seeds, and shea butter. Even crude oil export is still a major component of Nigeria’s export. Until recently, domestic refining capacity was nil.

    “This proposition raises a number of questions. What metrics would be used to determine the minimum 30% value addition?

    “Who will determine and give approval for the export to proceed? What study has been done to determine the local processing capacity for each category of primary products currently being exported?”

    “What metrics would be used to determine raw materials that manufacturers would be allowed to import into the country?”

    “What is the effective time frame for implementation? Is it within the mandate of the Raw Materials Research and Development Council (RMRDC) to be promoting the ban of exports or imports?

    “The position of the CPPE is that this bill raises more questions than answers. It is a very simplistic proposition that has not taken into account the critical challenges of manufacturing, processing, and value addition in the Nigerian economy. This contextual understanding is very critical to enrich the conversations around the raw materials bill. Most agro processors have collapsed not so much because of the raw materials availability but because of the challenges of productivity and competitiveness.

    “Production costs are prohibitive. The cost of energy, cost of funds, logistics cost, bureaucratic bottlenecks, exchange rate, multiple taxation, etc. These are bigger issues that need to be addressed to promote value addition. We should be causative in our approach to solving problems and focus less on the symptoms.

    “If passed, the bill would create new corruption gateways in the bureaucracy as businesses will now be burdened with another chain of approvals.

    “Additionally, the issue of export or import bans is not within the remit of the Raw Materials Research and Development Council or the Ministry of Science and Technology. It is in the realm of fiscal policy, which is within the purview of the Ministry of Finance, working in collaboration with the Ministry of National Planning and the Ministry of Industry, Trade, and Investment. And in this particular instance, the Nigeria Export Promotion Council [NEPC] must be in the loop. This is essential to determine the implications for the non-oil export sector, the manufacturing sector, and the economy as a whole. It is also important for policy coordination and coherence.

    “Import and export regulations are not often legislated. They are trade policy issues that are calibrated from time to time by the fiscal policy authorities in light of prevailing economic conditions. It is not a matter for the national assembly to legislate upon. Trade policies are also meant to be flexible, which is why they are not often a subject of legislation.

    “We therefore submit that the national assembly should discontinue deliberations on the bill and encourage the raw material research and development council to focus on its core mandate of raw materials research to offer the most cost-effective raw materials option for manufacturers. The council’s involvement in trade policy matters is an aberration. Besides, the bill has a very weak value proposition. The CPPE advises the RMRDC to withdraw the bill.”

    By: Babajide Okeowo

    Source: Ripples Nigeria

  • 18 UNIZIK Students Make First Class At Law School

    Eighteen students from Nnamdi Azikiwe University (UNIZIK), Awka, have emerged with First Class Honours in the recently released results of the Nigerian Law School’s 2025 Bar Finals Examination.

    According to the post on the institution’s website, the students include Ibe-Omodo Chioma, Ebubechi Bartholomew Okonkwo, Julius Chukwudi, Ebubechi Ifunanya Nnaji, Peace Udochukwu Onuigbo, Chinecherem Maureen Anatuanya, Wisdom Chibuike Oguguo, Obiajulu Leonard Okoli, Charles Olumba Stella Onyeka, Echefu Stellamaris Uchechukwu, Nwokocha Annastecia Chidinma, Obasi Sochima Evangeline.

    Others include, Ezeanyaso Tony Chinweitito, Nwabuzor Chioma Glory, Amanoh Chisom Goodness, Alagboso Daniel Ifeanyi, Anene Chinaza Peace, and Ifechukwu Praise Mmesoma.

    The institution noted that the achievement marks the highest number of First Class Honours recorded by its Faculty of Law, and is a testament to its commitment to academic excellence.

    The Dean of the Faculty of Law, Professor Felicia Ayaogu, expressed pride in the students’ achievement, attributing it to the dedication of the Faculty’s lecturers.

    “This is the true situation. Our students have made us proud, and we give all glory to God Almighty,” she said.

    She emphasized that the Faculty of Law has made deliberate efforts to cultivate an environment that fosters effective learning, teaching, and research.

    The Acting Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Joseph Ikechebelu, also commended the Faculty of Law for its stellar performance and reaffirmed the university’s commitment to producing globally competitive graduates.

    He congratulated the students on their achievement and assured them of the university’s continued support.

    18 UNIZIK Students Make First Class At Law School is first published on The Whistler Newspaper

    Source: The Whistler

  • Planning Analyst at Perfetti Van Melle

    Perfetti Van Melle is a privately owned company, producing and distributing candies and chewing gums in more than 150 countries worldwide.

    Employing over 18.000 people and operating 35 companies throughout the world, Perfetti Van Melle has a true global reach: it is present in the Asia Pacific Region, Europe, Middle East, Africa and the Americas
    The industrial adventure of Perfetti Van Melle began many years ago, but it was in March 2001 that the current Group was set up through the merger of Perfetti Spa and Van Melle N.V. In July 2006 the Group acquired the Spanish company Chupa Chups S.A., famous all over the world for its lollypops.

    Our brands convey the passion we have for our products. We continuously explore new ways of doing things and innovative ideas that will inspire and delight our consumers worldwide. Our global brands Mentos, Chupa Chups, Alpenliebe gratify, refresh, inspire consumers of all ages around the globe. Other brands are extremely popular in regional markets with innovative tastes that match local preferences.
    Specialties
    Confectionery – Candies, Gums and ChewiesResponsibilities

    Manage Materials ordering (Imported & local) based on aligned forecast and production plan while ensuring accurate data of lead times, MOQ/EOQ, and other key planning parameters.
    Maintain existing models that determine the appropriate stock levels of production raw materials. Ensure stock levels are optimal and accurate safety stock is in place.
    Maintain MRP master file showing status of all production raw materials and ensure daily inventory review/reporting of raw and packaging materials with proper escalation of abnormality.
    Provide reliable data to relevant stake-holders to make informed decisions on the appropriate actions to take with regards to material availability.
    Analyse data to ensure that sales forecasts are realistic

    Requirements

    Minimum of bachelor’s degree in any social science or related field.
    Certification in Supply Chain Management will be an added advantage.
    Proficient in use of MS office packages.
    At least 3 years’ relevant work experience in a similar role.
    Excellent verbal, written and presentation skills.
    Strong prioritization skills.
    Good stakeholders’ management ability.
    Must be able to analyze business performance with meaningful results.
    Goal-oriented with proven ability to achieve results.

    Click Here To Apply

  • Harvard sues Trump over US federal funding cuts

    Harvard University filed a lawsuit against the Trump administration on Monday, April 21, escalating the battle between the prestigious institution and the former president. 

     

    The University is challenging the administration’s attempts to withhold federal funding and impose political oversight on its operations, particularly related to its admissions policies, hiring practices, and political stance.

     

    The lawsuit, filed in a Massachusetts federal court, claims that the Trump administration’s actions violate both the First Amendment and federal laws. It describes the government’s efforts as “arbitrary and capricious” and argues that they represent an unlawful use of federal funding to influence academic decision-making at Harvard and other targeted universities. The lawsuit seeks to have the funding freeze and other imposed conditions on federal grants declared unlawful and to recover legal costs.

     

    The Trump administration has been engaged in a broader campaign against several elite universities, accusing them of tolerating anti-Semitism on campus. 

     

    This includes claims about protests against Israel’s war in Gaza, which the administration linked to anti-Semitic rhetoric. Harvard responded by disciplining students involved in those protests, including placing 23 students on probation and denying degrees to 12 others.

     

    Trump has publicly criticized Harvard, stating on his social media platform that the university is a “joke” that “teaches Hate and Stupidity” and should no longer receive federal funds. He has also frozen $2.2 billion in federal funding to the institution in retaliation for its refusal to accept government oversight.

     

    Harvard, in its lawsuit, affirmed its commitment to combating anti-Semitism and other forms of discrimination, stating that it is actively implementing reforms to address these issues. The lawsuit argues, however, that the administration’s blanket freeze on funding affects research unrelated to anti-Semitism, including medical, scientific, and technological studies.

     

    The Trump administration’s move comes amid ongoing tensions with academia over claims that universities are too left-leaning and favor minority groups in their programs. Harvard’s stance, particularly its refusal to accept government intervention in its academic independence, places it at the center of a larger debate about the role of politics in education and the autonomy of higher learning institutions.

     

     

    Source: Linda Ikeji

  • Ebenezer Obey shuts down death rumours, says ‘he’s still alive and well’

    Legendary Nigerian juju musician Ebenezer Remilekun Aremu Olasupo Obey-Fabiyi, MFR, known professionally as Ebenezer Obey, has shut down rumours of his death.

    Obey-Fabiyi dismissed the claim with a rousing performance in a video posted Tuesday morning. While singing in Yoruba, English, and Pidgin, he described the news as untrue.

    In the social media video, the 83-year-old icon appeared energetic and bright, responding to erroneous claims with a musical performance.

    READ ALSO: Kanayo O Kanayo berates modern-day actors, says they have ‘no sense of purpose’

    He said; “Hello, my name is Professor Ebenezer Obey-Fabiyi. Satan, you don lose o, Satan, you don lose o, you don pafuka. Na lie lie you dey talk, you don pafuka.”

    The veteran musician also issued a statement to his fans and the public: “It is fake news that started a few hours ago claiming that I, Evangelist Obey, have passed on to glory. It is a lie. I am alive, and that is not the word Jesus has written.”

    Source: Ripples Nigeria

  • Harvard Sues Trump Over $2.2bn Funding Cuts

    Harvard University has filed a lawsuit against President Donald Trump’s administration over what it describes as politically motivated attempts to control its internal policies in exchange for continued access to federal funding.

    The lawsuit, filed on Monday, was in response to the administration’s demand for access to all internal reports on antisemitism (anti-jewish) and anti-Muslim bias at Harvard since October 2023, along with new oversight requirements, according to CNN.

    The university’s president, Alan M. Garber, in a message to the Harvard community, called the government’s actions “a direct threat to academic freedom and the independence of American institutions of higher learning.”

    He said the demands have real consequences for students, researchers, and the global reputation of U.S. higher education.

    The Trump administration has frozen more than $2.2bn in research grants and federal contracts, and is threatening to revoke an additional $1bn in health-related funding unless Harvard agrees to a series of demands.

    These demands include eliminating Diversity, Equity and Inclusion (DEI) programmes, banning masks at campus protests, implementing merit-based hiring and admissions, and allowing federal oversight of hiring, admissions, and ideological climate on campus.

    A letter from the Department of Health and Human Services’ Office for Civil Rights, ordered Harvard to hand over all internal bias-related reports and the names of contributors to these documents for federal interviews, according to The Free Press.

    However, Harvard has refused the demands, arguing that the administration’s actions overstep legal boundaries and exceed its lawful authority.

    “This has nothing to do with fighting antisemitism,” Harvard’s lawsuit claims, arguing that the funding freeze unfairly targets critical scientific and medical research.

    Garber, who is Jewish, said Harvard admitted valid concerns about antisemitism and Islamophobia but said these concerns are actively being addressed through established campus task forces, insisting that the university will not compromise its constitutional rights.

    The administration’s actions follow the public release of a letter on April 11 from the White House’s Task Force to Combat Antisemitism, which demanded Harvard to submit to extensive federal oversight.

    Harvard’s public rejection of the letter’s terms reportedly escalated the conflict.

    Other elite institutions including Princeton, Cornell, and Northwestern have faced similar threats and halts in federal funding as the Trump administration intensifies efforts to reshape higher education policies.

    The U.S. Internal Revenue Service is also reportedly considering revoking Harvard’s tax-exempt status, while the administration has threatened to bar the university from enrolling foreign students, including Israeli veterans currently studying at the school.

    Meanwhile, Jewish organizations, including the Anti-Defamation League and Harvard Hillel, have voiced concerns that the administration’s response is more about political posturing than genuine concern for Jewish students.

    Over 100 Jewish Harvard students signed an open letter condemning the funding cuts, saying they feel like “pawns in a broader political agenda.”

    Harvard Sues Trump Over $2.2bn Funding Cuts is first published on The Whistler Newspaper

    Source: The Whistler

  • Front Desk Officer at LAPO Microfinance Bank Limited April, 2025

    Never pay for any CBT, test or assessment as part of any recruitment process. When in doubt, contact us

    Front Desk Officer is a professional, friendly, and detail-oriented person who is a first point of contact for our visitors, you will play a vital role in creating a positive and welcoming environment.  Your primary objective is to ensure the smooth operation of the front desk by handling guest inquiries, managing administrative tasks, and providing exceptional customer service.

    DUTIES & RESPONSIBILITIES

    Guest Service:

    1. Greet visitors in a professional and courteous manner, projecting a positive company image.

    2. Register visitors, collect necessary information, and issue badges as required.

    3. Answer visitor inquiries, offering assistance and directing them to the appropriate personnel.

    4. Schedule appointments (if applicable) and manage the appointment calendar efficiently.

    Administrative Tasks:

    1. Maintain a clean, organized, and professional reception area, ensuring a presentable first impression.

    2. Process incoming and outgoing mail and packages according to established procedures.

    3. Manage office supplies, maintaining adequate stock and replenishing supplies as needed.

    4. Perform basic administrative duties such as photocopying, faxing, filing documents, and data entry (if applicable).

    Telephone Operations:

    1. Answer phone calls promptly and professionally, using a designated greeting.

    2. Screen inquiries, gather relevant information, and direct calls to appropriate personnel.

    3. Transfer calls efficiently and politely, taking clear messages for unavailable staff when necessary.

    Security & Emergency Procedures:

    1. Be familiar with all security protocols, including access control procedures (e.g., sign-in sheets, visitor badges).

    2. Immediately report any suspicious activity or security breaches to the supervisor.

    3. Be knowledgeable about emergency procedures, including fire evacuation routes and assembly points.

    4. Assist in emergency situations as instructed by supervisors or emergency personnel.

    Click Here To Apply

  • Former NFL star Justin Blackmon couldn’t fit into police car after arrest, two sets of handcuffs were required to hold him

    Former college football standout Justin Blackmon was arrested for public intoxication on Saturday, April 19, with a police report obtained by TMZ Sports revealing details of the incident.

     

     The 35-year-old ex-Oklahoma State University receiver’s arrest drew attention over the weekend, with fans noting his altered appearance in the mugshot.

     

    According to the police report, officers responded to a call at 1:32 AM regarding a “larger black male” lying on the ground. By the time they arrived, the man had gotten up and walked into a campus building. Upon making contact, officers observed that Blackmon was unsteady on his feet, smelled strongly of alcohol, and was wearing wet clothes. His speech was described as “slurred and confusing.”

     

    When questioned about his actions, Blackmon told officers he was attempting to walk home. However, when asked for his destination, he repeatedly mentioned “Stillwater,” a town, but admitted he did not live there, saying, “You got me.” He then complied with officers’ instructions to turn around and place his hands behind his back.

     

    The report noted that two sets of handcuffs were required due to Blackmon’s body size and the girth of his wrists. When being escorted to a patrol car, officers found he was unable to fit in the back seat because of his size. As a result, a larger patrol car was brought in, and Blackmon was transported to jail for booking and processing.

     

    Blackmon, who stands at 6’2″ and weighs 230 pounds, is about 20 pounds heavier than his playing weight during his time at OSU and in the NFL. After a promising college career, Blackmon was drafted fifth overall by the Jacksonville Jaguars in the 2012 NFL Draft. However, his professional career was cut short when he was indefinitely suspended for multiple violations of the NFL’s substance abuse policy.

     

    Source: Linda Ikeji