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Spending Tips From Frugal Billionaires

Carlos Slim Helu (Carlos Slim), a telecom tycoon and billionaire with well-known frugal tendencies, has a net worth of $60.6 billion, according to Forbes. Assuming no changes in his net worth, he could spend $1,150 a minute for the next 100 years before he ran out of money. To put this in perspective, he could spend in 13 minutes what a minimum-wage earner brings home after an entire year of the daily grind.



Granted, the world's billionaires (all 1,011 of them) are in the debatably enviable position of having, quite literally, more money than they can possibly spend, yet some are still living well below their means, and save money in surprising places. Even non-billionaires (currently 6,864,605,142 of us) can partake in these seven spending tips from frugal billionaires:

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1. Keep Your Home Simple
Billionaires can afford to live in the most exclusive mansions imaginable -- and many do, including Bill Gates' sprawling 66,000 square foot, $147.5 million dollar mansion in Medina, Wash. -- yet frugal billionaires like Warren Buffett choose to keep it simple. Buffett still lives in the five-bedroom house in Omaha that he purchased in 1957 for $31,500. Likewise, Carlos Slim has lived in the same house for more than 40 years.

2. Use Self-Powered or Public Transportation
Thrifty billionaires including John Caudwell, David Cheriton and Chuck Feeney prefer to walk, bike or use public transportation when getting around town. Certainly these wealthy individuals could afford to take a helicopter to their lunch meetings, or ride in chauffeur-driven Bentleys, but they choose to get a little exercise and take advantage of public transportation instead. Good for the bank account and great for the environment.

3. Buy Your Clothes off the Rack
While some people, regardless of their net value, place a huge emphasis on wearing designer clothes and shoes, some frugal billionaires decide it's simply not worth the effort, or expense. You can find David Cheriton, the Stanford professor who matched Google founders Sergey Brin and Larry Page to the venture capitalists at Kleiner, Perkins, Caufield & Byers (resulting in a large reward of Google stock), wearing jeans and a t-shirt.

Ingvar Kamprad, the founder of the furniture company Ikea, avoids wearing suits, and John Caudwell, mobile phone mogul, buys his clothes off the rack instead of spending his wealth on designer clothes.

4. Keep your Scissors Sharp
The average haircut costs about $45, but people can and do spend up to $800 per cut and style. Multiply that by 8.6 (to account for a cut every six weeks) and it adds up to $7,200 per year, not including tips. These billionaires can certainly afford the most stylish haircuts, buy many cannot be bothered by the time it takes or the high price tag for the posh salons. Billionaires like John Caudwell and David Cheriton opt for cutting their own hair at home.



5. Drive a Regular Car
While billionaires like Larry Ellison (co-founder and CEO of Oracle Corporation) enjoy spending millions on cars, boats and planes, others remain low key with their vehicles of choice. Jim Walton (of the Wal-Mart clan) drives a 15-year-old pickup truck. Azim Premji, an Indian business tycoon, reportedly drives a Toyota Corolla. And Ingvar Kamprad of Ikea drives a 10-year-old Volvo. The idea is to buy a dependable car, and drive it into the ground. No need for a different car each day of the week for these frugal billionaires.

6. Skip Luxury Items
It may surprise some of us, but the world's wealthiest person, Carlos Slim (the one who could spend more than a thousand dollars a minute and not run out of money for one hundred years) does not own a yacht or a plane. (Reducing the amount you spend is the easiest way to make your money grow.)

Many other billionaires have chosen to skip these luxury items. Warren Buffett also avoids these lavish material items, stating, "Most toys are just a pain in the neck."

What We Can Learn
Some of the world's billionaires have frugal tendencies. Perhaps this thrifty nature even helped them make some of their money. Regardless, they have chosen to avoid some unnecessary spending (at least on their scale) and the 6,864,605,142 non-billionaires out there can follow suit, eliminating excessive, keep-up-with-the-Jones style spending. No matter what a person's income bracket is, most can usually find a way to cut back on frivolous spending, just like a few frugal billionaires.
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Why you should attend the FACEBOOK S3 Party?


* It gives you access and opportunity to network with other Nigerian Singles Worldwide on Facebook.

* The event will provides singles a way to get out and join a wide variety of fun, interesting and exciting activities as a way to experience things they may not ordinarily do on their own, while meeting new friends and developing new relationships online via facebook. An inspiring atmosphere to meet new friends, network,mingle and get connected in real life.

*We know it's not easy to find someone you can really connect with online, we are here to offer you a little help by saving you time and money,searching and setting up a great day out for you.

* FB S3 Party is an event where you can have as much fun as you may want to, network, socialize and expand your professional horizons.


THE FACEBOOK SINGLES & STILL SEARCHING PARTY (FB S3 Party) is a classy blind date and singles networking event garnished with a unique packaging with the intent of reaching out to the numerous Singles in Nigeria that have profiles on Facebook.


The event was borne out of the need to create a networking party that will bring together all Singles from all works of life via a grand style interactive event. The event is in the class of its own, the innovative packaging approach given to the event will make it an event that will be talked about for a long time.


The event was been packaged by Le Blonde Entertainment and Mega Points International.
"The programme seeks to connect all Nigerian Singles on Facebook via a classic event and to inculcate the core values of blind date spirit, self confidence and networking of Singles on facebook".


The FB S3 Party (Lagos Edition) is rapidly approaching if you haven't decided whether or not you want to come remember tickets are being sold in advance and reservation is require to attend.


This is an event you will not want to miss this is your chance to witness and be part of history,Join us at the first ever FACEBOOK SINGLES & STILL SEARCHING PARTY in Nigeria, the Lagos Edition.

To reserve and purchase tickets log on to www.kilonshele.com or call any of these numbers for TICKET RESERVATION EQUIRY: 080FBS3PARTY, 070FBS3PARTY, 08038272700,07031611402,08036468301,08038619690.
Email:fbs3party@live.com
www.facebook.com/fbs3party
www.facebooks3partynaija.socialgo.com
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Come 16th of October, The FACEBOOK SINGLES & STILL SEARCHING PARTY (Lagos Edition) holds @ Tobol Banquet Hall,Behind Total Filling Station Toyin Str.Ikeja,Lagos Events starts BLUE CARPET starts at 12:30pm -1:30pm and event proper starts by 2:00pm Prompt- 7:30pm.

Come meet will other Nigerian mature and serious Singles.
Please note advance reservation is required. No ticket sales at the venue.

To reserve and purchase tickets log on to www.kilonshele.com or call any of these numbers for TICKET RESERVATION ENQUIRY: 080FBS3PARTY, 070FBS3PARTY, 08038272700,07031611402,08036468301,08038619690.
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JUSTICE Okon Abang of a federal high court in Lagos has nullified the elections conducted into the board of the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) on August 26, 2010, by the electoral committee, headed by Mr A.U. Mustapha.

The judge, in his ruling on Monday, also ordered the Inspector General of Police (IGP), Ogbonna Onovo, to effect the removal of any person found occupying any elective office on the board of the NFF.

Justice Abang also directed that the most senior administrative officer in the NFF should take full charge of affairs pending the time a fresh election would be conducted.

The apparently furious judge said: “In spite of a subsisting order of this honourable court stopping NFF from conducting election into the board pending the determination of a motion on notice before it, the order was flouted and elections were conducted.

“The order of this court remains valid and must be obeyed by all citizens of this country. An act that has challenged the majesty of the court has to be dealt with.”

The judge also held that the court would be moved to hear the contempt proceedings as instituted by the Registered Trustees of National Association of Nigerian Footballers (NANF) on September 21.

Early on in the proceedings on Monday, counsel for the NFF and the Electoral Committee of the NFF, Dr Joseph Nwobike (SAN), urged the court to take his application

However, Justice Abang, while relying on a Supreme Court decision, said the court must assume jurisdiction to determine if it had jurisdiction to entertain the preliminary objection or not.

The judge further held that the issue of contempt should be taken first in order to protect the integrity of the court.

NANF had filed the suit against the NFF and others, alleging that the process of the election was perfected without recourse to its members, contrary to the clear wordings of the Federation of International Football Association (FIFA) statute and other extant laws relating to football administration in Nigeria.

Joined as co-defendants to the suit are NFF’s president, Aminu Maigari; president of the Nigeria Premier League (NPL) Board, Davidson Owumi; the chairman, National Sports Commission (NSC)/Minister of Sports, Ibrahim Isa Bio; Director of Sports in the NSC, Dr Patrick Ekeji and NFF’s electoral committee chairman, A.U Mustapha.

Justice Abang had earlier held that it would be improper to allow the elections to take place when there was a pending motion before the court seeking to restrain the conduct of the elections.

Specifically, the court ordered parties to maintain status quo ante bellum, pending the determination of the NANF motion.

NANF’s president, Harrison Jalla, who deposed to the affidavit in support of the suit, maintained that he was the official representative of the players’ union at the General Assembly of NFF in 2004, 2005 and 2006, but that he was “strangely” excluded from subsequent assemblies under various guises to stultify NANF’s activities.

Jalla revealed that the level of anti-footballing activities going on in NFF was alarming, adding that the constituents of the NFF, especially the Nigeria Premier League Board, were currently suffering from NFF’s alleged internal sabotage.

Meanwhile, the trial of four former members of the NFF board will commence today in Abuja over an alleged N1.3 billion fraud.

The members, according to a source, were re-arrested on Monday by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) and would be arraigned in court today.

The affected officials are the impeached former president, Alhaji Sani Lulu; his former deputy, Amanze Uchegbulam; former chairman, Technical Committee, Chief Taiwo Ogunjobi and former Secretary-General, Dr Bolaji Ojo-Oba.

The quartet were accused of mismanaging billions of naira which include 125,000 dollars, 250,000 dollars, N34 million, 400,000 dollars, with the stolen 236,000 dollars added to the alleged mismanaged funds.

They were equally alleged to have mismanaged funds received from the world football-governing body, FIFA, the Confederation of African Football (CAF) and sponsors, in the course of preparation for the 2010 World Cup in South Africa, where the Super Eagles of Nigeria had a dismal outing.

Some of the money received from the bodies allegedly include one million dollars and 200,000 dollars.

It was also alleged that the sacked NFF leadership used N185 million to bribe the 36 state football associations, including that of the FCT, Abuja, at N5 million each to support its cause.

The affected officials were also alleged to have squandered another five million dollars, said to be proceeds of marketing from FIFA.

Documents seen by the Nigerian Tribune revealed that a total of 300 persons were on the delegate list of the federation to the World Cup.

While 158 persons were on the original list, an additional list had 142 persons on it, with many of them labelled as stakeholders and ex-players.

Jonathan had earlier withdrawn the country from all international football competitions for two years but rescinded the decision, following a threat by FIFA to sanction Nigeria.

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MEMEBERS of the Academic Staff Union of Univeristies (ASUU) on Monday, in Enugu, staged a peaceful demonstration over the continued delay by the South-East governors in implementing the re-negotiated agreement which took efect from July 1, 2009.

The issues re-negotiated were conditions of service in Nigerian universities, funding of Nigerian universities, univeristy autonomy and academic freedom, and other matters connected with running the universities.

But if not for a team of armed policemen, who prevented the angry lecturers from marching to Government House, Enugu, where they had scheduled to formally present their griviances to the Chairman of South- East Governors’ Forum, Mr Peter Obi, through the Enugu State governor, Mr. Sullivan Chime, the protesters would have gone beyond the Enugu campus of the Enugu State University of Science and Technology (ESUT).

The universitiy teachers in their academic gowns marched to the main entrance to the Enugu campus and were told by the security operatives to carry out their action within the campus environment.

At this point, the protesters began their solidarity songs. “South-East good people, bad leaders” rented the air.

Some of the placards carried by the striking leactures read: “South-East Governors lack Education Consciousness,” “State universities started first in South-East but today they are dying”, “South- East Governors Release 20% of security votes for eduaction “, “South-East Governors Stop paying lip service to education.

Addressing newsmen later, the Chairman of the Strike Coordinating Committee in the South-East State Universities, Dr Victor Emmanuel Osodeke, said that it was disheartnening that governors of South-East zone, called on the Federal Government not to commit state university authorities in the agrement, wondering if there were parallel Nigerian University Commissin or ASUU in the country.




Written by Jude Ossai and Sam Nwaoko
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About multi-level marketing business

The rank of unemployed citizens has continued to grow: new school-leavers, loss of jobs to privatization,concessioning and consolidations, civil service reforms and downsizing, etc.Though the ultimate effect of ongoing reforms should be healthy for theeconomy, the immediate job-loss impact is huge. As this is written, the FederalGovernment is in the process of disengaging over 33,000 employees from itsworkforce. Now, add the countless number that's merely hanging on to jobs theyhave since mentally disengaged from but cannot leave until they find analternative and you begin to get an idea of the size of the job market. Thesupply side, that is.

Self-employment As A Viable Way Out
Interestingly, many more people are finding wisdom in self-employment. At arecent workshop of the Fate Foundation on generation of business ideas, one wasamazed at the massive turnout, an eye-opener that an increasing number ischoosing to go it alone, if only the right business ideas can be discovered.

The Odds You Face
No doubt, starting a business is a challenging project. People worry about therisk of failure. People worry about meeting the capital requirement, which forany business of significance will run into a few hundreds of thousands or, morelikely, some millions. There is worry about a proven product to sell or serviceto render. There is concern, too, about procurement sources and reliability.What about finding the right hands to work with you, a factor that could definesuccess or failure? The bottom-line: it takes guts and grit.

This Has Worked For Many In America and Elsewhere
Network marketing is, by any account, a smart way to play big, even withlimited resources. As Robert Butwin aptly captured it in his Street Smart NetworkMarketing, " where else but in Network Marketing can the average manor woman invest few hundred dollars - with the real potential of earning asmuch as the CEO of a successful corporation?"

So, here are the attractions of Network Marketing

1. It offers a business platform thatmoderates the risk of business take-off. After all, the company offering theproduct is already in operation and running smoothly. If it wasn't, why wouldyou select such a company? There is also a tested business model. The networkmarketing company develops a viable system which distributors are trained toapply. Joining such company therefore provides a highly protected framework forstarting a business, while assuring of some potential earnings milestones. Youjust duplicate the system.

2. By design, MLM ensures that you getgenerous assistance in building your business. How? The success of the companyas well as your upline (the person that introduced you and those above him),depends on the results you achieve. It's therefore in their self-interest toprovide all the training and support to give you a head-start and get you inthe driving seat. This will include marketing materials (videos, brochures,publications, tapes, samples, etc), seminars, conferences and other programmesto give you the leverage to perform.

3. Capital requirement is minimal.Network marketing simply expects you to buy only a few products on a regularbasis and, more importantly, to promote the products to your relations,friends, associates, colleagues, etc and encourage them to buy and enroll asdistributors. No stocking, no warehousing, no bank loans, no insurance cover,no sales team! Often, this will not cost more that a few thousands of Naira. Ifyou are unable to use some or all of the products you buy, you retail them andrecoup your money with profit! So with much less than N50,000, you aretruly in a business that could take you to any level.

4. Most companies have generouscompensation plans (that is, the commissions and other incentives). How is thispossible? The MLM companies sell on person-to-person basis and so save the hugeamounts spent by big companies on extensive advertising and running a largein-house sales force. The customer-distributors get a piece of this saving byway of commissions. Why? They are the ones selling for the company and savingthe money. The compensation plans are structured to confer more rewards as youcontribute more and climb in the system. In addition to commissions, cars,yachts, jets and sponsored holiday trips often form part of the package. One ofthe MLM companies is known to be giving out brand new BMW cars to qualifyingNigerian members.

5. Your earnings are literallydetermined by you. You no longer have to wait for a promotion or salary reviewby the employer to enhance your earnings. Simply set your goals, drive yourselfand earn what you work for. In a sense, there is no limit. How much is arealistic expectation? It's up to you. Abroad, where they've been on this for awhile, huge figures are common. In Nigeria, a sizeable number already picks afew millions every month. Want to confirm? It's simple: spend some time andmake enquiries from members of Alivemax,Green world,Ardyss, Tahitian Noni,Forever Living.etc

6. There is no other business where youcan 'employ' a lot of people to work for you without paying a huge salary bill.In network marketing you pay none. Who works for you? Everybody in yourdownline. That's how it works. So, with a downline of, say, 1000 active people,working hard to grow their own businesses, you literally have 1000 men workingfor you because you earn commissions from each person's activities. And you payno salary! Can you beat that?

Give Yourself A Break And Get Going
It's time to get going, now that you have a vehicle to ride to businesssuccess. You'd probably want to know if anything could go wrong with thisseemingly rosy picture. Yes, you could pick the wrong company. So you mustchoose well. It could be the wrong product, with questionable product value.This will not sustain a long-term performance, so, research the product. Itcould also be you lacking in personal vision, passion or drive for superiorresults. Network marketing simply provides an opportunity. The life-changingresults will come from your personal commitment. I'm sure you have what ittakes to take charge and drive yourself to success.

How to succeed in online multi-level marketingbusiness

Can you imagine what life would be like if you had absolute control on your time? Have you ever dreamedof making lots of money from something you or anybody can do without the needto be a degree or diploma holder? What about doing those things you love themost anytime, anywhere and with anyone you desire?

If the above are your expectation, then consider seriously being a part of atested online multi-level marketing business.

What is multi-level marketing?

It is a system used by some companies to sell their goods or services through a network of distributors.Today this industry is generating billion worth of revenues yearly. You couldachieve the aforementioned if you choose a legitimate multi-level marketingbusiness. The fact is there are lots of frauds out there, and so extreme careis advisable.

There are thousands of genuine multi-level marketing opportunities out there,some of the reasons that some people think that they are fraud or a scam issimply because they did not succeed. There is a difference between beingunsuccessful in a multi-level marketing business and for a program to be fraud.

Any multi-level marketing business is relatively the same as anytraditional business, if you do not work hard, then you will not reap anyrewards. That is one of the most common mistakes that people do, they thinkthat they will just sign up and wait for the cash to roll in. It does not workthat way. Any business requires hard work, and multi-level marketing businessis not an exception. You still have to work hard to make money out of it. Thatis the general rule in any business. So making money in network marketingbusiness is actually happening,

Factors that can cause failure in multi-level marketing business

1. Choice

Choosing the wrong multi-level network company is one factor that makes it hard for some people toearn money. Or lead to failure

2.individual determination/hard work

Another factor responsible for failures in multi-level marketing business can be blamed on people whothink it’s a free lunch, and do not work hard on the business. People shouldlearn to accept responsibility if things did not go for them as planned. Thesecompanies are only there to offer you an opportunity, and it solely depends onyou to make that opportunity work for you. It is really all about you.

3. Research

When choosing a multi-level marketing business, it is important that the business has solid reputation. Youshould do a lot of research and find out what other people say about them. Itis quite expected that you will come across several negative feedbacks aboutthe company. You should be objective about the comments and try to find out iffeedbacks are genuine. That will help you to decide whether to partner withthem.

The one truth which you must look for in your research is a company that thebusiness opportunity works and they have products that are in demand. You shouldalso be sure if the products that you will get are valuable and are worth theprice that you have to pay. You should only invest in a multi-level marketingbusiness, if you know for sure what you are truly paying for. As you are goingto invest your hard earned money on it, and spending it wisely is really whatyou should do.

When you embark in the world of multi-level marketing business, you have toexpect that there will be times that you will have an overwhelming feeling oftiredness, which will make you want to give it all up. What you must do here isto focus on the big money you will make. If someone in the company can beearning millions every month, you can do it too. It is quite important that youhold on to those big pictures so that you will be encouraged in troublingtimes, when everything seems to be against all odds. It is quite expected thatanything in the world of network marketing is dictated by how you set your owndestiny. When you believe that you will be successful, don't just believe it,you have to make it happen.

It is important before you join a multi-level marketing business with theobjective of making big money out of it, you must learn how to Internetmarketing knowledge online and offline first. Learning is not just limited tousing word of mouth to invite your friends and family members to the businessopportunity. You have to find Internet marketing experts in the businesswho understand how it works, be ready to learn and be trained by them.Multi-level marketing is a career; you must be prepared to give it what ittakes to succeed.

Take your time in learning all that you can about it, and believe me it willpay off. There are a lot of experts that are equipped with all the necessaryinformation that you will need to get started, as well as tools that you willneed to set up your own online marketing campaign. This is precisely what youneed, to be able to reduce mistakes and make a way to your own success story.

If you are serious and really mean to do a multi-level marketing business, thenyou must be prepare to invest in the business. The investments will come invarious forms. You must invest your time, which is relatively easy because allyou have to do is to start working. Secondly is money to invest, you need to investmoney to make more money. Investment of capital is part of what makes everybusiness successful. At the end of the day all you need is patience, money toinvest, know-how, and of course ultimately your decision.

4. Be proud of what u do

Almost everyone who joined a home based business knows the feeling of being a little afraid, ashamed or embarrassed totell the friend or family about it. Who knows why it's so hard to tell thepeople who love you most about your new business but it really can be. The reasonfor these feelings cannot be known, but the question is, why are you afraid?Why is it hard to tell the ones you care for that you wish to change your life?You are not doing something wrong, so why being so hard to speak about it?

There is nothing in the world to be ashamed of them it comes to build a home based business. Wanting to work from home isnothing to be embarrassed of, actually is something to be proud of. While lotsof people chose to wake up every morning and go to a job they don't like, youchose to do something about it. You are doing something about your dreams andthe things you really want in life and this is nothing to be ashamed of.

Probably the reason why you are still ashamed to tell your close friends about your home based business is that even thenetwork marketing is something legitimate, there still is a huge stigmaattached to it. Many people don't believe that this is a real form of business.And they have a hard time to accept it because they don't believe this is areal form of business. But you have to be firm with your decision and knowwithin you that there is nothing wrong with network marketing. This type ofbusiness have been around for decades and will still be because it made lots opeople earn lot of money.

Even if network marketing has a baggage attached to it, you should not be ashamed of it. It's a great way to make moneyand you should not be embarrassed, but rather get involved into it.

No one will become successful and achieve greatness without the support and help from others. The power of people joiningtogether for a common purpose is greater than one trying alone. The ability tobuild a strong support system is a key factor in achieving success. Networkingis the process of meeting people and developing personal and professionalrelationships. It is one of the most cost-effective marketing tools around.Referrals generate more results than cold calls. Networking leads to more jobsthan want ads, and most people have a larger network than they believe they do.The old saying, "it's not what you know, but who you know" is morethan true, it is a mantra anyone wanting to be successful should imbed deepinto their consciousness.

You must also realize that the time to build your network is now. Do not wait till youneed something! The title to Harvey Mackay's networking book says it all,"Dig Your Well Before You're Thirsty." You must establish a networkand continuously build, nurture and attend it. Networking is not selling, usingpeople, or badgering friends and associates about your business. Networking issharing information and resources for the mutual benefit of everyone in thenetwork. Proper networking does not make people feel uncomfortable, rather itis the development of goodwill, trust, service and contribution among thoselinked together by some common bond. You will provide information, tips, andresources far more than you will receive them. However, what you do receive inreturn will far outweigh everything else. It is that one big break that comes fromyour network that makes you realize how fortunate you are to have suchwonderful friends and acquaintances. We have not even mentioned the joy you canfeel by helping others succeed by sharing and assisting them reach their goalstoo. It is the exchange, the helping of each other, that makes networking sucha powerful strategy to achieve success

Five Keys To Networking

Networking is important, but how do you get started? How can you be an effective networker? There are too many aspects ofnetworking to cover in this short section, but it will address five keys tohelp you network your way to success. The keys to networking to focus on are:Develop Your People Skills; Create a System; Nurture Your Network; Give MoreThan You Receive; and It's Who Knows You. Start looking for ways to incorporatethese important lessons in your own networking. The benefits will beastounding.

Develop Your People Skills

Networking is all about people. If you want to network successfully and professionally, you must be professional anddevelop the skills to interact with people in all kinds of situations. Thesection in this book on appearance will assist you with getting off on theright foot. If you want people to perceive you as a professional, you mustportray yourself as a professional. This means all areas: attire, speech,mannerisms and actions. Your appearance will go a long ways toward a good firstimpression. Another people skill you can develop to ensure you make a lastingpositive first impression is your introduction of yourself.

You want to introduce yourself in a way that creates rapport with the other person. You want the introduction to generateinterest that will lead toward developing a relationship. You can draw peoplein or turn them off with the way you introduce yourself. It is worth the timeright now to think about how you can best introduce yourself to others tocreate positive lasting first impressions that will assist in developingrelationships. It should be a natural and fit the situation. Keep it short andexpress what you do rather than what you are. Use common words but be differentenough to distinguish yourself from others. Smile! Be warm and engaging.Enthusiasm attracts others to you. Then listen to their introduction and becomeinterested in them. Practice and evaluate how you introduce yourself to othersand you can create an introduction that generates interest and has a positivelasting effect.

Another important people skill that follows introductions is that of remembering names. This is an extremely importantpeople skill for the master networker. If you can remember names, your networkwill be more successful. Make a choice right now that you will take thenecessary steps to remember names. Stop telling yourself that you can neverremember names, faces yes, but names never. Tell yourself you can remembernames, and make a conscious effort to do so every time you meet someone new.Upon being introduced, tell the person it is nice to meet them and use theirname. Use their name again during the conversation and a last time as you part.Review business cards of people you met at the end of the day and associatetheir name, face, business so you will better remember them the next time youmeet. The more you work at this, the easier it will become.

While you are no longer going to have trouble remember names after committing to remembering them, others might. Be courteousand professional by reintroducing yourself to those you have met before. Tellthem your name and where you know each other from. This will relieve them fromthe embarrassing moment of trying to recall your name and how they know you.The successful networker takes the initiative and reintroduces him or herselfrather than waiting for someone to remember them.

The most important people skill you must develop is being gracious and courteous to everyone. Common courtesy and goodmanners go a long way. You will never develop a successful and enrichingnetwork without them. Treat everyone with respect and courtesy. Pleasant andcordial people attract others toward them. You never know who will end up beingimportant in your life, so treat everyone as if they are the most importantperson you know and you will never go wrong.

Create a System

If you do not have a system to organize and retrieve all the names, addresses, numbers, e-mail addresses and informationyou have collected from others, it will not do you much good. You mustestablish a system to organize and retrieve the information in your network.There are many ways to do this, from an address book, to a Rolodex system tothe new computer database systems.

It does not really matter how you do it, as long as you do. Devise a system that works for you. It should allow you to keepyour network organized as you build it, retrieve information from it, and workat keeping relationships growing. Accessibility is the key to an organizationalsystem. If you cannot find the information, you cannot refer to it, share it,or act upon it. Organize your network by creating a system that works for you.

Nurture Your Network

It will do you know good to collect names and cards in an organized system if you do not keep in touch with the people. Ifthe only time you contact people in your database is when you need something,you will be remembered as someone who only calls when you want something.

You should nurture your network by keeping in touch with people. You can send notes, e-mails, and letters. You can call orvisit. The key is to develop the habit of nurturing your network on aconsistent basis. Send thank you notes when someone does something for you,even if it was just passing on some information that they believed wouldbenefit you. Call people you have not touched base with in a while to see ifthere is anything you might be able to help them with or to just catch up onwhat they are doing so you can be on the lookout for things that might helpthem. When you do come across something that you believe might be of interestto someone in your network, forward it on with a little note. There are manylittle ways you can nurture your network. Make it a habit and you will reap thebenefits from what you sow.

Give More Than You Receive

Best selling author and motivational speaker Zig Zigler is fond of saying, "You can get anything in life you want ifyou will just help enough other people get what they want." Zig's adviceis better than anything else one could say about networking. If you give morethan you receive, you are bound to receive more than you could ever imagine.Networking is not about keeping score. It is about people helping one another.The more you help others, the more powerful your network will be, and apowerful network will do wonders for your career and personal life as well.

One of the easiest ways to give more than you receive is to become committed toward the success of those in your network. Ifyou truly want to see others succeed, and become committed to that end, youwill spot little things to pass on to assist them with their goals. Every oncein a while you will be able to pass something along that is quite huge inhelping someone else achieve their dreams. The stronger your commitment to helpothers succeed, the stronger your network will be. This network built oncommitment of helping others will be a powerful force in your own success. Youwill find that the more you give, the more opportunities you will receive. Donot build a network of acquaintances. Build a network of solid relationships.These relationships will be formed when you are committed to the success of everyonein your network.

It's Who Knows You

The old saying that it is not what you know but who you know is only partially correct. It is who knows you that reallymatters. You must create visibility for yourself. You want to be known. One ofthe easiest ways to become known and increase your network is to participate invarious organizations and committees.

Professional organizations abound, and joining can enhance your opportunities to expand your network. Clubs andorganizations provide excellent places to meet others and build an interestingand productive network.

Networking is powerful. Following these five simple keys will build a solid foundation toward a network that will bring youmore than you dreamed possible. You will find that you enjoy being there forothers, and be thankful when they are there for you. If you don't have thenetwork you want, start now. Remember Harvey Mackay's saying, "Dig YourWell before you’re Thirsty."Remember

in order to attract the right people, your seriousness must be very obvious. Here are 3 tips to keep in mind;

1. Make your word your bond.

A bond can be known as the glue or centerpiece that holds two or more things together. Legal contracts andagreements hold things together in our business world but there is an unwrittenrule that a man's words should do so likewise.

This means that anything you say regarding a business transaction, goal, or anything that is defining of your trust, can bebacked strongly by just your word. Only serious people can uphold there end ofthis rule.

2. Everything must be consistent.

Being consistent doesn't just mean being able to continue with a certain thing. It means that whatever you have discussed ordescribed to a new contact regarding yourself or your business, holds true withoutany exaggeration. In other words, there should be no holes in your story.

3. Show and prove.

As the old saying goes "Talk is cheap". When you are showing a new contact that you are a seriouscontender, you should be able to represent all you have verbally presented.When the time comes, you should be able to prove your position on manydifferent levels, even if you are just beginning in a certain field. If youcannot do this, and that is the case, you should never over extend yourabilities. Once you do, you have proven that you are definitely not serious anddon't really mean business

As a small business you need an elevator speech. Whether you actually call it an "elevator speech" a "30second introduction" or an "infomercial" is irrelevant. When youare asked "what do you do?" then your answer is your elevator speechwhether you like it or not.

This needs some thought and practice to avoid these most common mistakes. Beware! Succinctly getting your message over in away that grabs attention is not always as easy as "just telling otherswhat you do".

Mistake 1 - Talking about yourself

Eh? How are you going to tell people about what you do without talking about yourself? This is THE MOST common mistake asa result. It sounds like a list of what you do. For example "We dothis..." or "I am an internet guru" or "I am a professionalwith this, that and the other service"

The downside to this is twofold. Firstly, people don't really care about all your services, accolades and self-appointedtitles. They are trying to decide quickly if you are someone who may be able tohelp them, or are worth chatting to further as a networking partner.

Secondly - it is so common that your message will sound very similar to other people in the same niche. When that happens itis hard to grab attention.

The solution is to change your mindset and put yourself in the shoes of your ideal client and think about the CHALLENGESthey face and how you solve them. Use that as the lead into your elevatorspeech. In other words: "I work with (this type of client) struggling with(this type of problem).

Mistake 2 - Expecting others to "get" you

The most common example of this is assuming people will understand AND be interested when you label yourself or yourcompany - "We are tax attorneys" and leaving at that. Here's thething: people often either don't get what you do (perhaps they have never heardof it) or they assume they know what you do and it is different from thereality.

In either case it would be nice to think your listener would stop you and ask you to elaborate. They won't. They will be confused;embarrassed they don't understand or disinterested and move on.

Avoid labeling yourself - stick to the formula above and talk to THEIR challenges.

Mistake 3 - Irrelevant information

You must have heard how this sounds: "We have been in business 75 years and are based on main and 35th street, justopposite from the big new McDonald's that has opened there........"

This is a variation on talking about yourself but is specific and common enough to warrant it's own category.Again, unless this is of specific importance and relevance to the audience (youare a retail outlet or restaurant in which case location is important) then itis just noise to the audience.

The solution is simply to cut it out of your intro - it wastes time and adds little value. Again, stick to your targetaudience and what concerns them. That is the litmus test of all your intromaterial.

Mistake 4 - Trying to be cute

Tricky one this. There is a lot of advice out there recommending a tag line to keep you memorable. This can certainly workbut for every funny play on words there are countless groan inducing puns orworse, tag lines that really don't make sense.

It is the same advice as humor in a presentation. It can be great, but you really have to know what you are doingand so few people do it well. There is a very fine line between being witty andoffending. Also a clever play on words can confuse.

If you have a clever tag line that works, by all means stick with it. However it isn't necessary and don't waste timethinking one up. Just stick with your message that you help a certain audiencewith a specific problem of problems.

Mistake 5 - Not trying

This might be harsh when considering an elevator speech but, let’s faces it, sometimes people give up with theirelevator speech and sometimes they will tell you about it:

"Well, I'm really nervous/not good at this so I will just tell you about the company"

At other times it is basically being unprepared and it can be embarrassing to watch someone stumble through anelevator speech without a clear goal or plan. Don't let it happen to you!

You should ALWAYS be prepared to introduce yourself - there is no excuse for being caught off guard andcertainly not to give up on the whole thing and muddle through

Golden rules are the ones that actually apply. You should have them in mind and never forget them. Like stars to steerby, they're permanent markers to guide us and keep us moving in the rightdirection.

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8 things which can affect your memory

Some memory loss is inevitable as we age. What you can do to protect yourself and your memory

8 things which can affect your memory

A surprising number of things can cause memory loss, not just dementia.

So watch out for the following before jumping to all the wrong conclusions:

You're stressed out

Last year, more than 400,000 people in the UK said they were under so much stress at work, it was making them ill. Studies have shown that people under pressure who continuously have high levels of the stress hormone cortisol in their blood perform less well in memory tests. But it is now also thought that even severe short term stress can cause memory loss.

What to do about it

You won't know when your cortisol levels are up, but most of us know when we are stressed and under pressure, whether it's caused by work, family, relationships or money. Make time for yourself to do what helps you to relax - exercise, a relaxing bath, yoga, or doing some gardening.

Problems sleeping

Adults generally need at least six hours of sleep a night to function the next day. Lack of sleep and poor quality sleep are both associated with memory loss. Sleep is needed for effective memory storage and retrieval.

People with sleep apnoea, a disorder which causes them to stop breathing in their sleep ten times per hour, often suffer from memory loss and irritability the following day.

What to do about it

Sleep problems are usually caused by lifestyle, rather than a sleep disorder. Establish a sleep routine, and avoid food and drink (especially alcohol) which help keep you awake or interrupt your sleep pattern.

Sleep apnoea mostly occurs in men, people who are overweight and who snore heavily.

Lacking vitamins

Vitamin B12 is essential for the production of red blood cells and for a healthy nervous system. People who lack vitamin B12 become anaemic and can suffer memory difficulties.

Most people with vitamin B12 deficiency are unable to absorb the vitamin from foods. Although it's more common in people over the age of 50, it can occur at any age.

What to do about it

Anaemia symptoms include tiredness, shortness of breath and dizziness. Nervous system symptoms include tingling in the hands and feet, muscle weakness, memory loss and confusion.

The good news is that it can be treated by your GP who will prescribe vitamin B12 injections. Good sources of vitamin B12 are red and white meat, eggs, fish, milk and cheese. Vegans can take supplements.

Thyroid disorder

Memory difficulties combined with general fatigue and sluggishness are often accepted as a normal part of ageing. But they can also be a sign of an underactive thyroid caused by low levels of hormones from the thyroid gland. Hypothyroidism can occur at any age, but is usually more common in older adults and in women.

What to do about it

Look out for other symptoms such as cold hands and feet, constipation, pale, dry skin and unexplained weight gain. If these sound familiar, see your GP. They can perform a blood test, and prescribe hormone tablets if necessary.

Common drugs

Certain prescription drugs and even those bought at your local pharmacy can affect your memory. This usually happens if you take too many or because they may be interacting with other drugs. As you age and your metabolism slows down, medicines tend to stay in the system for longer and this can also have an effect.

Anticholinergics are a class of drugs which block the activity of acetylcholine, a chemical messenger which carries signals between nerve cells. These types of drugs are often used to treat bladder problems, sleeplessness, nausea and allergies and are found in many over the counter medicines.

What to do about it

Draw up a list of any drugs you are taking, including any purchased from your pharmacy and take it to your GP. They can decide if any drug related memory problems are occurring and alter your medication if necessary.

Booze

It's already known that alcoholics and long term heavy drinkers can suffer from memory loss and even permanent brain damage. But recent studies also suggest that binge drinking can cause short term memory loss as well.

What to do about it

It's not rocket science is it? From a health point of view, binge drinking is definitely not recommended. Apart from memory loss, there is also the risk of alcohol poisoning and choking on your own vomit whilst asleep. Stick to the recommended limits which are:

  • Men should drink no more than 3 to 4 units of alcohol per day
  • Women should drink no more than 2 to 3 units of alcohol per day

Mini-stroke

Transient ischemic attack, or mini-stroke, happens when the blood supply to part of the brain is interrupted, in most cases by a blood clot. Unlike strokes, mini-strokes can last from a few minutes up to 24 hours. Most are over within half an hour. Because of this, many people ignore the symptoms, especially if they disappear within the day. Others may not be aware they have had one, yet they can cause memory loss.

What to do about it

Symptoms of a stroke should be treated as a medical emergency, even if they disappear. Around one in five people who have mini-strokes go on to have a full blown stroke which can kill, or cause permanent disability. If you or anyone you know has 'a turn' involving memory loss, confusion, difficulty with or understanding speech, loss of balance, dizziness or trouble walking, then call 999.

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Confusion in Ogun State

image_news070910x.jpg

?Speaker, 13 others impeached with borrowed mace? It's illegal ?G15

?An act of God ?Gov

MONSUR OLADUNJOYE, Lagos and ADEBIMPE AFUNKU, Abeokuta

Confusion reigned in Ogun State yesterday, as a faction of the State House of Assembly loyal to Governor Gbenga Daniel, sacked the Speaker Tunji Egbetokun and 13 others

Journalists and staff of the Assembly were barred from the complex, as the sack was carried out by a group of nine members sympathetic to the state government.

They were said to have arrived at the complex as early as 7 a.m. and gone into the chambers where they conducted proceedings with a mace said to have been borrowed from the Abeokuta North Local Government Area. The State House of Assembly is composed of 26 members, two of whom are currently on suspension.

Yemi Coker from Odeda state constituency was appointed as the new Speaker.

Coker, in his inaugural speech, said the action had become necessary because of the gross misconduct of Egbetokun.

He said the action was taken to save the government from being crippled by Egbetokun and his team.

They immediately approved the supplementary budget for the state and for Governor Daniel to approach the capital market for the N100 billion bond that has been rejected by majority of the legislators.

This was as the new speaker was prevented by the police from addressing the press at Iwe Iroyin House, venue of the proposed press briefing. State Police Commissioner Musa Daura, ordered the venue shut.

The Police boss also ordered that the legislative chamber be secured by his men, pending the settlement of the political impasse.

Meanwhile, Gov. Daniel has described the event as an act of God.

The embattled Egbetokun who pointed accusing fingers at Governor Daniel, however, told Daily Champion in an exclusive interview that "he (Daniel) is deceiving himself."

A member of the G-15 Kunle Adegboyega recalled that the faction broke into the chamber to sit for just 30 minutes during which Egbetokun was removed.

He said the minority took the hasty decision to scuttle the scheduled debate on the bond request which was to come up tomorrow (Wednesday).

Addressing newsmen yesterday at the Lagos Airport Hotel in Ikeja, Lagos State, Egbetokun and 13 others said: "They and their sponsor are all joking because even the least educated Nigerian or human being knows that they need two-thirds (16) members of the House to remove me from office as Speaker.

"My impeachment by the minority lawmakers is illegal and therefore null and void because the eight lawmakers did not constitute the required quorum by law to impeach me.

"Section 92 sub section 3 of the Constitution provides that to suspend a Speaker will require two-thirds of the members of the House.

"Out of 26 members of the House only eight were part of the impeachment which is less than what is required to remove a Speaker from office?,? he said.

He said majority of the lawmakers are on his side and therefore it is impossible for the minority to swallow the majority, lamenting that the lawmakers whose primary responsibility is to protect the law are the ones breaking it through illegal impeachment.

He told newsmen that the House remained adjourned and would be reconvened as soon as its recess is over, adding that the impeachment is a charade that must be disregarded.

The Speaker warned financial institutions against spending money from the supplementary budget until all issues are resolved.

Those who attended the briefing included the Deputy Speaker Remi Hassan and the Deputy Majority Leader, Mr. Micheal Fasinu, Giwa Nosiru, Leye Odunyo,Adekunle Adegboyega,Lukman Adire Adijat Adeleye and Akeem Salami.

Others were: Pelumi Olusola, Abiodun Akoroyo, Joshua Fatokin, Job Akinta, Wale Alausa and Dr Oshin.

However, Daniel yesterday said the development in the Assembly was an answer to the fervent prayers of indigenes, noting that it was particularly instructive that it happened during the holy month of Ramadan.

The governor, in his first official reaction, said it was God that intervened in the matter to ensure victory for the people of the state.

He said this while addressing hundreds of party supporters from Remo North Local Government area, who paid him a solidarity visit, at the Government House, Abeokuta, over the development.

He expressed gratitude to them for the visit, stressing that it was especially gratifying to him that they could mobilise so quickly without any prompting or invitation to come and show him their love and support.

He said: "I do not have much to say, because the situation is clear to everyone. As you are all aware, we are in the holy month of Ramadan. So, what has happened was a manifestation of the prayers of all of you, especially during this period. God who has answered our prayers will not leave us alone at this stage. But I want all of you to know that these people we are talking about are still our people. It was the devil that tried to divide us. God has won victory for us and the victory shall endure by His grace."

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World's Shortest Man Is Just 70cm Tall

A Colombian who is just over 2ft tall has been officially recognised as the world's shortest living man by the Guinness World Records.

World's Shortest Man Is Just 70cm Tall

Edward Nino Hernandez, measuring 27in (70cm), is slightly taller than a piece of carry-on luggage and weighs 22lb (10kg).

"He hasn't grown since he was two years old," his mother Noemi Hernandez said.

The previous titleholder was China's He Pingping, who was 1.5in (4cm) taller than the Colombian and died on March 13.

In a recent interview, 24-year-old Nino said about his height: "I feel happy because I'm unique," but added "it bothers me that people are (always) touching me and picking me up".

According to Ms Hernandez, doctors could not explain why her son is so small. "They never gave us a diagnosis," she said.

Nino comes from Bosa, a mostly poor district of southern Bogota, and loves to dance, dreams of owning a car and wants to see the world.

The record holder also said he has an 18-year-old girlfriend called Fanny, who is less than 5ft tall.

But Nino does have his problems - he suffers from cataracts in both of his eyes that blur his vision and require surgery.

His mother said: "He doesn't see well. He isn't able to read".

Nino also had to repeat several years of school before dropping out.

The world's shortest man has earned some cash dancing at department stores and is now acting in a film in which he plays a pint-sized drug thug.

But the Guinness World Records believe Nino's reign is not likely to last long.

Khagendra Thapa Magar from Nepal, the world's shortest teenager, measures about 22in (56cm) and turns 18 on October 14.

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Aggrieved passenger attacks KLM flight in Abuja

Barely two weeks after the United States granted Nigeria Category One certification, a KLM airline's flight has been attacked by an aggrieved pasenger at the Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport Abuja.



Investigation by our correspondent showed that the passenger, whose identity has been masked by the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria, had last Monday beaten all security measures to launch an attack on a flight scheduled to depart for Amsterdam.

Our correspondent learnt that the passenger who apparently lives in Europe had had altercations with officials of the Dutch airline at its regional office in Sheraton Hotel and Towers Abuja earlier in the day.

Although the airline warned the passenger never to appear at the airport, he showed up as promised and still engaged the airline in hot arguments. Initially, he was apprehended and handed over to Aviation Security officials.

However, the unruly passenger later escaped and made it to the tarmac mysteriously when the KLM aircraft was being pushed in readiness for taxing and eventual take off.

He came armed with a bag filled with stones, which he started hurling at the engine of the aircraft thereby drawing the attention of onlookers and creating panic in the hearts of the passengers that had boarded the aircraft.

Our correspondent learnt that Aviation Security (known for short as AVSEC, the security arm of FAAN in charge of airport security) officials at the tarmac had to call for reinforcement.

With the reinforcement, the passenger was eventually overpowered, arrested and handed over to the police at the airport.

The Divisional Police Officer in charge of the Airport Police Station, Mr. S.O.N. Anene, confirmed that the police were handling the case but declined to give further details.
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Dagrin RIP .Terry G take am easy o !
Terry G just announced on twitter that he is ok after the accident, He just needs some rest.


hitmanTerryG

I dey o. Thanks for all the love, God pass them, I wan go rest small!! Ginjah no go die. God guide us and One love my people! I appreciate
25 minutes ago


Previously:


Was He Drunk or high on weed ? With the latest takeaway of our Top indigenous Rap Artist Dagrin by Car Accidents .Terry G almost joined the crew of posthumous talents.See Dagrin here
http://bit.ly/c2R9Xx




Word reaching us, is that Gabriel Amanyi, aka Terry G has been involved in a terrible auto accident and is critical condition.

The accident occured at about 3am saturday morning, when the singer/producer was on his way home from an outing with friends in Ikeja, Lagos. Apparently he ran into a road demarcation somewhere in Ogba.

According to eye witnesses, Terry G was the driver of the vehicle, and had other passengers with him who are also members of the House of Ginja. It is unclear the condition of other passengers, but Terry is currently undergoing treatment at an undisclosed hospital.

No word yet on where he’s being treated. His mobile phone is off, his BlackBerry inactive. And although his manager assures us ‘everything is under control’;

The car- A Toyota Camry – is now lying at the office of the Lagos State Traffic Management Authority (LASTMA).

Please say a prayer for Terry G and other members of the House Of Ginja involved in the accident.


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REA Fugitives: Angela Oselukwe and Uduak Akpan Isreal

These two ladies, whose names are Angela Oselukwu and Uduak Akpan Isreal, are the missing link between the N5 billion Naira graft and the successful identification of several fronts that the Speaker of the House of Representatives, Dimeji Bankole,used in receiving kickbacks from a massive theft of public funds.

According to EFCC officials, Angela and Uduak opened bank accounts at the United Bank For Africa (UBA) into which deposits were made by a member of the house, Godwin Ndudi Elumelu and Senator Nicholas Ugbane. Others making deposits into those accounts include Mohammed Jibo, Dr Abdullahi Aliyu, Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Power, the MD of Rural Electrification Agency, REA, Engineer Samuel Ibi Gekpe, and several other unscrupulous REA officials.

Angela and Uduak, who are in their thirties, were the major signatories to the several companies that were used in stealing N3 billion from the REA.

The two ladies maintained offices in the upscale Maitama area of Abuja. Some of the companies belonged to siblings of Speaker Bankole and his father. The companies linked to Bankole, his father, brother and cousin are: Vulysteke Metallic Construction Ltd, Parthenon Acropolis Nig. Ltd, Complete Trade Nig. Ltd, Zobra Global Services Ltd and F-Plus Concept Ltd.

These companies were paid for services they didn't render with the help of the two amazons of graft, who were spirited out of Nigeria as soon as investigations began regarding the 2009 scam.

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Do you know all your friends on facebook? Olasupo Olanrewaju‘s story is a reminder that one should think twice before clicking on the ‘add‘ button when a friend request is received, writes TOYOSI OGUNSEYE.

Nothing about Olasupo Olanrewaju gives him away as a fraudster. Instead, his soft-spoken and gentle demeanor endears the 30-year-old man to most people.

Olasupo, therefore, has no problem making friends. In fact, his courteous nature makes the ladies love him. Unknown to most of the women, there is more to Olasupo than meets the eye.

The native of Ondo State, who claims to have an Ordinary National Diploma in Marketing from the Federal Polytechnic, Ado-Ekiti, utilizes the internet and all forms of social media to woo women. When he meets a lady, he introduces himself as a modelling agent who is in search of beautiful women to grace the billboards of multinational companies. If the lady agrees to work with him, he arranges a location in a part of Nigeria where she does not live. That is, if the woman lives in Abuja, he will ask her to meet him at a specific hotel in Benin or if she lives in Owerri, he will ask her to meet him in Lagos.

Ironically, Olasupo does not live in Nigeria. ”I live at Number 13, Ndam Amoarko New Town, Accra Ghana,” he says. According to him, he started living in Accra three years ago after his uncle who resides in Ghana asked Olasupo to stay with him. He says, ”I produce commercial jingles and I also have a barbing shop in Accra. I started living in Ghana in 2007.I went to Ghana with an uncle of mine who is into buying and selling. My uncle felt I could do better in Accra; that was why he took me along with him. When I visit Nigeria, I stay at Olunloyo, Ibadan.”

Olasupo, the sixth of his parents seven children, says that his first job after leaving the polytechnic, was as a marketer with Mutltichoice, ”Before I went to Ghana, I was living in Abuja where I worked as a contractor on the ninth floor of the Federal Ministry of Information and Communication. I used to repair computers when I was there. Just after my OND in Marketing from the Federal Polytechnic, Ado-Ekiti, I was living in Lagos. I was also producing commercial jingles and was involved in musical concerts for about seven years. I used to market for Mutichoice in Lagos. I did not go for my HND because I wanted to travel abroad.”

So desperate was his bid to travel overseas that Olasupo decided to con aspiring models on the Internet. Using facebook, which is one of the most common social networks, he searched for pretty ladies and added them to his friends‘ list. Once the lady agrees to his friend‘s request, Olasupo then sends a message to her inbox introducing himself as a modelling agent that has a fantastic offer for her. If the woman indicates any interest in the offer, Olasupo goes for the kill- he arranges a meeting in a city different from where the lady resides.

Without much persuasion, Olasupo tells SUNDAY PUNCH his modus operandi, he even volunteers information that he is not asked. He says, ”I am involved in fraudulent activities on the internet. I go online in search of models and pretend as if I have a genuine modelling outfit. I use facebook most of the time but I also use twitter and Niger Pals to search for girls. Basically, there are some platforms for models on these networks. I select randomly and contact them by sending a message to their inbox saying that I am a modelling agent. I will tell them that there is an auditioning for models that I want them to participate in by sending a message to their inbox. I ask the models for their pictures and ask them to send it to gndtainment_models@yahoo.com. I also add them as my friends on facebook. We exchange phone numbers and I give them an address to meet me outside Lagos for their auditioning. I ask them to meet me outside the city where they live because it is safer for me and they bring a lot of money along with them if they are travelling outside their state. I have 10 victims so far.”

Olasupo, who bears Olasupo Davids on facebook, claims that he started this fraudulent activity about four months ago, ”I was involved in it last year; I stopped and went back to it again this year.”

When his victim gets to the hotel where he is to meet her, Olasupo teaches her the basics of modelling and catwalk on the first day. The next day, he dashes into her room very early in the morning and tells her that she should hurry up because they would be late for the audition. The highly expectant lady runs into the bathroom to have her bath, leaving Olasupo with her belongings in the room. He strikes at this point and steals all her belongings and disappears into thin air.

This was what happened to Abioye Olamide and Olaoye Folashade. In Abioye‘s case, he met her in a bus at Ado-Ekiti. ”I told her that I was a modelling agent and that she looked like a potential model. We then exchanged phone numbers.” He searched for her on facebook and they became friends. He then sent her a mail that read, ”You are hereby invited for the audition for a pictorial modelling billboard job for a visual advert. This will be coming up on August 24 and 26, 2010. You are to come with your costumes because you will be taking pictures and video at the audition venue. Your entry code is #NH-134. Venue is Governor‘s Centre, Akure/Ilesha. Time is 8a.m. We shall be looking forward to having you here, kindly print out this letter and come along with it. You will not be allowed without it. ”

The address on the mail is Gudtainment International, Plot 153, Mallam Rabiu Avenue,Off Maitama Road, Abuja which Olasupo says is not genuine.

When Abioye got to Akure, Olasupo taught her how to cat-walk and told her that they would go for the auditioning the following day. The next day, Olasupo asked her to have her bath because they were late for the event and made away with her belongings when she was in the bathroom.

In Olaoye‘s case, Olasupo invited her to Benin from Abuja after he met her on facebook. While she was also in the bathroom at Boston Hotel, he says he made away with all her belongings. He was also able to take N200,000 from her account because her Automated Teller Machine password that the bank gave her was in her bag. When Olaoye came out of the bathroom and noticed that Olasupo had gone with everything she had, she reported to the Central Intelligence Bureau in Benin.”

The spokesman of the Lagos State Police Command, Frank Mba, says that the police in Benin, were able to arrest Olasupo‘s friend, Lucky, who was the one that reserved the room in the hotel.

Olasupo says that he knows Lucky, ”We lived in Accra together and he is also involved in the same fraudulent activity. In fact, we use the same e-mail address.”

When Lucky was arrested, the police got a list of the next victims he and Olasupo were targeting and Olaoye got in touch with one of them through facebook. Olaoye told the lady, who was identified as Blessing, to play along with Olasupo.

Blessing, who resides in Owerri, was given an appointment at the Lakeview Hotel, Trade Fair, Lagos. When she got there, she met Olasupo waiting for her in the reception. Unknown to him, Blessing was a bait. Shortly after, the police from the Trade Fair Police Station arrested him at the hotel.

Mba says there is a lot to learn from Olasupo, ”There are so many Olasupos‘ out there. We need to learn how not to give our personal information to strangers. All the ladies that fell prey to Olasupo did not know him, yet they added him as their friend on facebook and agreed to meet a stranger in hotels. Also, once the bank gives you your ATM password, change it immediately.”


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North Warns Jonathan Against Use Of EFCC .

Written by Leon Usigbe, AbujaSaturday, 04 September 2010THE Adamu Ciroma Northern Political Leaders Forum (NPLF), otherwise known the “G15” has warned President Goodluck Jonathan against his alleged plan to use the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) to hound state governors who are perceived to be opposed to his ambition to remain in office.They posited that such attitide suggested a desperation on his part and called on all lovers of democracy to resist him.In a statement signed by its spokesperson, Dr. Iyorchia Ayu, a former Senate President, which was made available to Saturday Tribune in Abuja on Friday, the forum counselled the president to demonstrate tolerance and desist from harassing his opponents.The statement advised the president to enthrone a regime of tolerance of political opposition and to desist from the use of the EFCC to intimidate and harass governors and political leaders who are opposed to his attempt to subvert the zoning formula by seizing the Peoples Democratic Partys (PDP) ticket in next year’s general elections.”It said: “the NPLF wishes to draw the attention of all Nigerians to the inherent dangers of turning the EFCC into a political gestapo of a particular candidate.“The NPLF recalls that this is the same tactics former President Olusegun Obasanjo employed in the pursuit of his failed third term agenda.“It is becoming clear to all that Jonathan’s candidacy for 2011 despite the PDP’s affirmation of the principle of zoning and rotation is a return of tenure elongation of President Obasanjo, which Nigerians unanimously rejected.“The NPLF wants to make it clear that this development raises serious questions on President Jonathan’s often stated commitment to free and fair elections, and by extension the survival of the nation’s democracy.“Sadly, it is giving President Jonathan away as a desperado, who is prepared to whip everyone into line in order to confiscate a mandate that is clearly not his.“In as much as the NPLF is not opposed to the fight against graft, it is, however, manifest that the current onslaught against state governors and political leaders is part of the measures at checking those who not well- disposed to the ambition of President Jonathan.“It is regrettable that we are witnessing today a throwback to the Obasanjo days and portends great danger to the credibility of the political process, nay the polity,” the statement added.
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SEVERAL persons were feared dead and about 20 vehicles burnt on Sunday, when a tanker went up in flames in Ibafo in Ogun State.

The cause of the fire could not be immediately ascertained, but some witnesses claimed that the tanker crashed and went up in flames.

Traffic to Ibadan and Lagos on the ever-busy expressway was still at a standstill at 9 p.m.

There was pandemonium as motorists, commuters and residents of the community scampered for safety.

All the known bush paths that led to the road were blocked as motorists meandered to find escape routes.

The inferno raged at the scene for about five hours after the tragedy, despite frantic efforts by a team of rescuers comprising law enforcement agents, to curtail the fire and clear the way for people to resume their journey.

An eyewitness claimed to have counted at least five vehicles that were razed, but he could not confirm if they were mainly commercial ones.

Recently, no fewer than 40 persons died in a similar tragedy at the Lagos end of the road.When contacted, the state Police Public Relations Officer, Mr Olumuyiwa Adejobi and the Unit Commander Mowe/Ibafo unit of the state Traffic Compliance and Enforcement Corps (TRACE), Commandant Gbenga Aderibigbe, confirmed the development.

Adejobi said that the police, at the time of filing this report, could not ascertain the number of causalities involved in the accident, while Aderibigbe added that frantic efforts were being made to quench the fire and restore normalcy on the highway.

The PPRO said, “I have been informed about the accident involving three artriculated lorries at Kara Area of Mowe/Ibafo on the Lagos –Ibadan Expressway on Sunday evening.

“The Divisional Police Officer in the area had briefed me but could not ascertain the number of casualties involved in the accident. All that he was able to tell me was that one of the trailers traveling to Ibadan from Lagos lost control and veered off the road to the other section of the highway.”

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Ifo Residents Protest Against Obasanjo

Residents of Ilepa a community in Ifo Local Government Area of Ogun State, Nigeria, yesterday took to the streets to protest against the demolition of their properties.

The residents, numbering over 10,000, with placards marched from the main entrance of the town to the palace of the traditional ruler, Oba Fatai Oladipupo, the Baale and other community leaders.

P.M.NEWS learned that the people are protesting against the proposed demolision of their properties by the management of the Lagos University Teaching Hospital, Idi-Araba, Lagos.

Investigations revealed that the management of LUTH are banking on the fact that a portion of the property was given to them by the President Obasanjo administration for the purpose of building an annex of the hospital

P.M.NEWS gathered that the residents decided to protest when an official of LUTH gave them a verbal ultimatum of 100 days to vacate the property.

Speaking on behalf of the residents, Elder Peter Idowu, the chaiman, Ifesowapo Community Development Association, said that though the management of the hospital has annexed some portion of the property and the ultimatum is a calculated attempt by a group of people to convert the property for personal use, “and we will not watch and allow these people destroy a town made up of over 13 communities including Ilepa, Onhale and others, where do they want us to go? We sense a foul play by OBJ and others.”

Earlier, the Oba of the town advised the residents to maintain peace with a promise to speak with those in authority to assist in resolving the issue.

Also, counsel to the community, Barrister Gbolahan Agoro, said that the issue of the 100-day ultimatum is null and void and of no basis and promised to fight on.



http://pmnewsnigeria.com/2010/09/02/ifo-residents-protest-against-obasanjo/



Obasanjo.jpg (35.11 KB, 495x331 )


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A Brazilian referee is on the run after fatally stabbing a player during a match in Barriera, northeast Brazil on Sunday.

340x_refereewhis.jpgAccording to Marca, local referee Gregorio Edio Francisco Chaves, 26, attacked Jose Ramos da Silva during a dispute over a foul. Police reports say Chaves stabbed da Silva in the chest before turning on the 28-year-old's brother, knifing him in the back multiple times..

Despite being treated by doctors, da Silva died at the scene. His brother, Francisco Chagas da Silva is currently recovering from his injuries.

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The suspects are:

1.Adeyanju Bodunde

2.George Mark

3.Hans George Christ

4. Heinrich J. Stockhausen

5.Julius Berger Nigeria Plc

6. Bilfinger Berger GMBH.

7.Ibrahim Aliyu

8. AVM Abdullahi Dominic Bello

9. Mohammed Gidado Bakare

10.Urban Shelter Limited

11.Intercellular Nigeria Limited

12.Sherwood Petroleum Limited

13. Tri-Star Investment Limited

14.Maizube Holdings Limited

15. TSKJ Nigeria Limited-(a) Technip S.A.; (b)Snamprogetti Netherlands B.V. (c) Kellogg Brown and Root Inc(d) Japan Gasoline Corporation of Japan.

SLUG: Panic as AGF drags ex-Head of State’s firm, Obasanjo’s PA, ex-Permanent Secretary, 12 others to court over $180m Halliburton scandal

The anti-corruption crusade in Nigeria reached a feverish pitch on Friday when its Attorney-General of the Federation, Mr. Mohammed Adoke(SAN) filed charges against Maizube Holdings Limited, a company owned by a former Head of State, Gen. Abdulasalami Abubakar and 14 others.

The others include Adeyanju Bodunde, who was a former Personal Assistant to ex- President Olusegun Obasanjo; a former Permanent Secretary, Ibrahim Aliyu; Julius Berger Nigeria Plc George Mark, Hans George Christ, Heinrich J. Stockhausen; and Bilfinger Berger GMBH.

Others are AVM Abdullahi Dominic Bello; Mohammed Gidado Bakare; Urban Shelter Limited; Intercellular Nigeria Limited; Sherwood Petroleum Limited; Tri-Star Investment Limited; TSKJ Nigeria Limited-(a) Technip S.A.; (b)Snamprogetti Netherlands B.V. (c) Kellog Brown and Root Inc(d) Japan Gasoline Corporation of Japan.

The suspects will be tried at both the Federal High Court Abuja and in the High Court of Justice of the Federal Capital Territory .

Although the suspect central to the bribery scandal(Jeffrey Tesler) is at large, the Federal Government is determined to prosecute all those implicated.

The prosecutors of the suspects are Mr. J.B. Daudu(SAN), who recently emerged as the President of the Nigerian Bar Association(NBA); E. C. Ukala(SAN); and G.O. Obla FCI Arb

Allegations against some of the suspects are as follows:

  • That you, George Mark, Jeffrey Tesler(now at large), Hans George Christ, Heinrich J. Stockhausen; Julius Berger Nigeria Plc, Bilfinger Berger GMBH, sometimes between 2002 and 2003 within the jurisdiction of this Honourable Court conspired among yourselves to make several cash payments in the sum of US$1million(five times) totaling in equivalent the sum of $5million to one Adeyanju Bodunde and thereby committed an offence contrary to Section 16 of the Money Laundering Act 1995(as saved by Section 23(2) of the Money Laundering Act 2004) and punishable under Section 15(2) and (3) of the Money Laundering Act 1995(as saved by Section 23(2) of the Money Laundering Act, 2004).
  • That George Mark, Hans George Christ, Heinrich J. Stockhausen; Julius Berger Nigeria Plc, Bilfinger Berger GMBH and Adeyanju Bodunde sometimes between 2002 and 2003 within the jurisdiction of this Honourable Court conspired among yourselves to do an illegal act, to wit: failing to report several cash payments totaling in equivalent the sum of $5million by one Jeffrey Tesler(now at large) ; thereby committed an offence contrary to Section 16 and punishable under Section 15(2) and (3) of the Money Laundering Act 1995.
  • That all the six suspects sometimes between 2002 and 2003 did make several payments totaling in equivalent $5million to one Adeyanju Bodunde and thereby committed an offence contrary to Sections 1 and 15(d) of the Money Laundering Act 1995(as saved by Section 23(2) of the Money Laundering Act 2004) and punishable under Section 15(2) and (3) of the Money Laundering Act 1995(as saved by Section 23(2) of the Money Laundering Act, 2004).
  • That you Adeyanju Bodunde sometimes between 2002 and 2003 did accept several cash payments in the sum of $5milion($1m in five tranches) from George Mark, Hans George Christ, Heinrich J. Stockhausen; Julius Berger Nigeria Plc, Bilfinger Berger GMBH and thereby committed an offence contrary to 1 and 15(d) of the Money Laundering Act 1995(as saved by Section 23(2) of the Money Laundering Act 2004) and punishable under Section 15(2) and (3) of the Money Laundering Act 1995(as saved by Section 23(2) of the Money Laundering Act, 2004).
  • That you George Mark, Jefferey Tesler(now at large), Hans George Christ, Heinrich J. Stockhausen; Julius Berger Nigeria Plc, Bilfinger Berger GMBH did transfer several sums of money received from one Jeffrey Tesler in the sum of $5million to one Adeyanju Bodunde in Nigeria, to wit did conceal and transfer to a nominee knowing that it constitutes proceeds of a criminal conduct and thereby committed an offence punishable under Section 16 of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission(Establishment) Act 2002.
  • That you George Mark, Hans George Christ, Heinrich J. Stockhausen; Julius Berger Nigeria Plc, Bilfinger Berger GMBH conspired among yourselves to do an illegal act to wit: corruptly procuring and transferring cash payments amounting to $5million on behalf of one Jefferey Tesler (now at large), to one Adeyanju Bodunde, Personal Assistant to the President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, thereby committed an offence punishable under Section 516 of the Criminal Code, CAP C38 LFN, 2004.
  • That you George Mark, Hans George Christ, Heinrich J. Stockhausen; Julius Berger Nigeria Plc, Bilfinger Berger GMBH did for and on behalf of one Jefferey Tesler (now at large) did corruptly procure and transfer $5million to one Adeyanju Bodunde, Personal Assistant to the President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, thereby committed an offence punishable under Section 98A of the criminal Code CAP C38 LFN, 2004.
  • That you Adeyanju Bodunde sometimes between 2002 and 2003 while being a public official and in your capacity as the Personal Assistant to the President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria corruptly asked for and received several cash payments in the sum of $5million from one George Mark, Hans George Christ, Heinrich J. Stockhausen; Julius Berger Nigeria Plc, Bilfinger Berger GMBH for and on behalf of one Jeffrey Tesler(now at large) thereby committed an offence punishable under Section 98B of the criminal Code CAP C38 LFN, 2004.
  • That you Adeyanju Bodunde sometimes between 2002 and 2003 while being a public official and in your capacity as the Personal Assistant to the President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria accept several cash amounting to $5million from one George Mark, Hans George Christ, Heinrich J. Stockhausen; Julius Berger Nigeria Plc, Bilfinger Berger GMBH for and on behalf of one Jeffrey Tesler(now at large) , being a reward beyond your proper pay and emoluments, thereby committed an offence punishable under Section 98B of the criminal Code CAP C38 LFN, 2004.
  • That you George Mark, Hans George Christ, Heinrich J. Stockhausen; Julius Berger Nigeria Plc, Bilfinger Berger GMBH did make for yourselves and on behalf of one Jefferey Tesler(now at large) several cash payments in the sum of $5million to one Adeyanju Bodunde, personal Assistant to the Federal Republic of Nigeria for the purpose of financing the activities of a political party in Nigeria thereby committed an offence punishable under Section 38(2) of the Companies and Allied Matters Act CAP. C20 LFN 2004..

To view court documents, click


http://www.scribd.com/doc/36893306

http://www.scribd.com/doc/36893187
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UNIBEN lecturer found dead

BENIN—THERE was pandemonium yesterday at the Government
Reservation Area, GRA, in Benin City, Edo State, when a senior lecturer in the Department of Petroleum Engineering, University of Benin, UNIBEN, Dr Balvant Rai, an Indian, was found dead few meters from his home.

The lifeless body was discovered in the early hours of yesterday, opposite the premises of the Edo State Ministry of Health.
Photo:An Indain Lecturer ,Uniben Main Gate
Dr Rai, who Vanguard learnt had spent over 30 years in Nigeria, preferred trekking from Ugbowo to his GRA residence. Though it was yet to be ascertained what actually killed him, it was, however, believed that he probably died out of exhaustion after he trekked to his house under the down pour in Benin on Tuesday.

Some bruises were observed in his right elbow, which signified that he may have fallen hard on the rough surface of the tarred road. When Vanguard visited the scene at about 8:50am, policemen attached to the Aideyan Police Station and officials of UNIBEN came to take the corpse away in a 504 station wagon ambulance belonging to UNIBEN Health Services with registration number, FH 727 U50.

It was, however, observed that the back pocket of the late lecturer was turned out, which indicated that some hoodlums may have searched his pockets and taken away his cell phone.

The spokesman of the University, Osaze Osareren, who confirmed the incident, said the university authority had requested that an autopsy be carried out, just as he dismissed insinuations that the late lecturer might have been shot dead.

“There was no bullet wound, so that is ruled out. We will wait for the report of the autopsy before we can actually ascertain the cause of death,” he said.

More Reports:

An Indian lecturer was found dead in southern Nigeria's Benin City after he had gone for a trek, and is suspected to have died of exhaustion.

The body of Balvant Rai, who was in his 50s, was found yesterday morning lying face down near a golf club with minor bruises. His umbrella was found beside him.

Police are conducting an autopsy to ascertain the cause of death of the lecturer at the Department of Petroleum Engineering at the high profile University of Benin."There was no bullet mark and no facts of strangulation yet but we are waiting for the result of the (autopsy) report," University spokesman Osaze Osarnren said.

Rai had been residing in Nigeria for over 30 years.Local newspaper Vanguard reported that the back pocket of the lecturer was turned out, which indicated that some hoodlums may have searched his pockets and taken away his cell phone.

Residents of the area said the Indian national hardly used a vehicle and preferred trekking.
The Nigerian government started hiring a large number of Indian teachers and other experts in the 1970s. Towards the end of the 80s, many of them returned to India but some decided remain in the oil rich African country.

At present, it is estimated that there are 17,000 Indian expatriates in the country, with some of them owning industries. Outside the federal government, Indian companies are the highest employers of labour.
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Scientists unravel secrets of sound sleep

Ever wonder how some people can sleep through thunderstorms and traffic noise, while others wake up at the slightest sound? Differences in people's brain rhythms during sleep may hold the answer, scientists say.


While treatments based on the findings remain a long ways off, "by knowing this information, we will better understand what can be done to enhance natural sleep," said study senior author Dr. Jeffrey Ellenbogen, chief of the division of sleep medicine at Massachusetts General Hospital and assistant professor of neurology at Harvard Medical School.

Reporting in the Aug. 10 issue of Current Biology, Ellenbogen and his colleagues studied how sensitivity to noise during sleep is associated with a type of brain activity called sleep "spindles" - bursts of fast brain rhythms that punctuate the otherwise slow-wave patterns characteristic of sleep.

These spindle rhythms are generated by a structure in the brain called the thalamus, which is responsible for relaying sensory information from the outside world to other parts of the brain. It's thought that the thalamus might generate these sleep spindles as a way to prevent sensory input (such as loud noise) from reaching the sleeping brain.

To see if spindles might shield the brain from sound in the environment, the researchers first measured spindle production in the brains of 12 healthy adult volunteers during a quiet night of sleep. On the next two nights, they evaluated the volunteers' sleep behavior in the presence of noises like road and air traffic or a ringing telephone.

The researchers found that people with higher rates of spindle rhythms were consistently less likely to awake in response to these noises.

"Spindles have previously been associated with suppression of incoming stimuli during sleep, so the results are logical," said one expert, Torbjorn Akerstedt, director of the Stress Research Institute at Stockholm University in Sweden.

It's not completely clear if sleep spindles are directly interfering with sound transmission to the brain, although that's the current hypothesis, Ellenbogen said. "If a spindle occurs at the same time as a sound, then the sound is likely blocked from perception, keeping the person asleep. More spindles makes it more likely that noises will collide with this sleep-protecting rhythm," he said. Alternatively, it's possible that the spindle is simply a sign of an as-yet-unknown brain process that controls noise sensitivity.

Each person's spindle rate was similar across all three nights, suggesting that it's a stable trait for an individual across time, although "little is known about what makes one person produce more spindles than another," Ellenbogen said.
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