End-September 2023 GIR level settles at US$98.7 billion
The country’s gross international reserves (GIR) level, based on preliminary data, settled at US$98.7 billion as of end-September 2023 from the end-August 2023 level of US$99.6 billion. [1]The latest GIR level represents a more than adequate external liquidity buffer equivalent to 7.3 months’ worth of imports of goods and payments of services and primary income. [2]Moreover, it is also about 5.7 times the country’s short-term external debt based on original maturity and 3.6 times based on residual maturity. Similarly, the net international reserves, which refers to the difference between the BSP’s reserve assets (GIR) and reserve liabilities (short-term foreign debt and credit and loans from the International Monetary Fund (IMF)), decreased by US$0.8 billion to US$98.7 billion as of end-September 2023 from the end-August 2023 level of US$99.5 billion. [1] The BSP’s reserve assets consist of foreign investments, gold, foreign exchange, reserve position in the IMF, and special drawing rights.
Source:The Guardian
October 08, 2023 21:00 UTC
Sadia Kabeya column: Missing trailblazing WXV with England is a punch to the gut
I have been working on rehab for that and I was on track to be available for WXV - but this week I had a setback. It has been frustrating, as I was so close to being back and on the plane to New Zealand. To not be involved in the first one is disappointing, a punch to the gut, because I think it will be a big, influential tournament. 'We want a new narrative after World Cup final'England lost 34-31 to New Zealand in the final of the 2022 Women's Rugby World CupThis is England's first game in New Zealand since losing the Rugby World Cup final. John Mitchell will become England women's head coach following leading Japan at the 2023 World Cup'Success is always winning'For us, a successful WXV tournament means always winning - we want three wins from three games.
Source:Punch
October 08, 2023 20:43 UTC
A forged presidency?
His Sallust was a British spy who was on the run, his plane having been shot down in Nazi Germany. I followed sleeplessly as Sallust ran through disguises and danger as he worked to save himself and the woman he hoped to rescue. And then I would learn that it is not only spies but ordinary people who, more out of greed than desperation, take dastardly risks. It is how a man becomes a governor and in front of everyone, converts himself into the richest man in the state. Keep in mind that the questions about Tinubu’s character first surfaced nearly 25 years ago when he ran for governor.
Source:Punch
October 08, 2023 19:52 UTC
Five ways to build new habits
Whether you’re aiming to develop a healthier lifestyle, boost productivity, or enhance your skills, forming new habits can be transformative. In this article, we will discuss five effective strategies to help you build and maintain new habits successfully. Start small and specificWhen embarking on building a new habit, it’s crucial to start small and be specific about your goal. Establish a clear routineCreating a clear routine around your desired habit can significantly aid in its development. By starting small, establishing clear routines, utilising habit stacking, monitoring progress, and seeking support, you can set yourself up for success in developing lasting, positive habits.
Source:Nigerian Tribune
October 08, 2023 19:18 UTC
US foundation trains 50 Nigerian youth activists on social change
The US Department of State has empowered no fewer than 50 Nigerian youth activists and change-makers through the FlexiSAF Foundation youth activism workshop in Abuja. The event united 50 passionate young activists and change-makers aged 18 to 35, with the goal of inspiring and equipping them with the skills and knowledge to drive positive social change. The workshop also emphasized the importance of history in driving social change, rekindling participants’ appreciation for the past’s role in shaping the future. The FlexiSAF Foundation’s commitment to nurturing a network of empowered youth activists has set a promising foundation for future projects and advocacy campaigns. The Foundation looks forward to witnessing the positive impact these empowered youth activists will make in their communities and beyond.
Source:Nigerian Tribune
October 08, 2023 14:04 UTC
“Giving that first punch, it inspired me”: Indian players express admiration for Virender Sehwag
“Giving that first punch, it inspired me”: Indian players express admiration for Virender Sehwag"Giving that first punch, it is one thing that has inspired me. Everyone after him could come out express themselves and enjoy their knocks," said Suryakumar. Suryakumar said that Sehwag’s ability to deliver the “first punch” inspired him as a player and after a good Sehwag knock, those coming after him could express themselves freely too. “Giving that first punch, it is one thing that has inspired me. In his ICC Cricket World Cup career, Sehwag scored 843 runs in 22 matches at an average of 38.31 with a strike rate of over 106.
Source:Punch
October 08, 2023 13:12 UTC
Great new British directors: five acclaimed debut films to watch
What started out as a trickle of fresh talent into the British film industry just a few years ago has gathered momentum into a fully fledged new wave. And kudos is due to the BFI and BBC films in particular for their support of new, diverse talent. Her debut feature, Hoard, premiered in September at the Venice film festival, where it snagged three prizes. It screens in competition at the London film festival this month. GLRaine Allen-MillerDavid Jonsson and Vivian Oparah in Rye Lane.
Source:The Guardian
October 08, 2023 13:05 UTC
‘Truth in a grave’ | The Guardian Nigeria News - Nigeria and World News
It is worrisome that even church elders and leaders deceive their congregation that cannot “study to show themselves approved” these days. The name of that powerful force is truth. It is written that it (truth) is the most powerful force on earth. There is only one truth, not a scientific truth on the one hand, and a religious or political truth on the other hand. That iswhy truth is the most powerful force on earth: Tell it, it will set you free, after all.
Source:The Guardian
October 08, 2023 12:14 UTC
British Council’s film Lab Africa set to empower Nigerian filmmakers, TV producers
Fashugba added that the Film Lab Africa was not just a programme , but a testament to the British Council’s commitment to nurturing talents, promoting cross-cultural collaboration through the creative economy. “Film Lab Africa will provide aspiring filmmakers and television producers with the tools, knowledge, and resources needed to craft compelling narratives and make their mark on the global stage. “ In doing so, we will not only empower individuals but also contribute to the growth and sustainability of Nigeria’s creative economy,” she said. The programme will offer participants opportunities to premiere their films, participate in tours, secure distribution, and showcase their work at film festivals. Director of Programmes, British Council, Chikodi Onyemerela, said women and persons with disability as well as people in relatively marginalised communities were encouraged to apply.
Source:The Guardian
October 08, 2023 10:14 UTC
Afghanistan earthquake: More than 100 dead, 500 injured — Officials
A powerful earthquake followed by strong aftershocks has killed more than 100 people in western Afghanistan, local officials said, as the United Nations warned that the death toll could rise as search and rescue efforts continue. The 6.3 magnitude earthquake struck 40km (24 miles) west of the city of Herat at about 11 am on Saturday (06:30 GMT), with strong aftershocks felt in the neighbouring Badghis and Farah provinces. The Afghan Ministry of Defence in a post on X, formerly known as Twitter, said the tremors killed more than 100 people and injured more than 500. In Herat city, resident Abdul Shakor Samadi said the quake was followed by at least five strong tremors at about noon on Saturday (07:30 GMT). The World Health Organization in Afghanistan said it dispatched 12 ambulances to Zenda Jan to evacuate casualties to hospitals.
Source:Nigerian Tribune
October 08, 2023 07:21 UTC
Nigerian army reveals identities of pro-Biafran gunmen terrorising South-east
The Nigerian army says pro-Biafra gunmen terrorising residents of the South-east were mainly condemned criminals that escaped from Owerri Prison Facility during the infamous jail break in Imo State. The spokesperson of the 82 Division of the Nigerian Army, Jonah Unuakhalu, in a statement, said the army made the discovery when troops of Operation Udo Ka II, conducted a clearance operation in the state on Friday. Armed persons, on 5 April 2021, attacked the Owerri Correctional Centre and freed a total of 1,844 prisoners, authorities had said. Arrest and destruction of IPOB shrinesMr Unuakhalu, in the statement, said two suspected IPOB members were arrested during the clearance operations in Imo State. “During the simultaneous clearance operations at Umulolo, one of the troops’ vehicles was hit by an improvised explosive device (IED).
Source:The Guardian
October 07, 2023 17:45 UTC
Adamawa Guardian Correspondent loses Father in-law, burial plans will soon be announced
The North East editor of The Guardian newspaper Prince Emmanuel Ande,has lost his Father in-law in Benue state. His Father in-law Mr. Francis Usende,died in the early hours of Thursday this week in his home town Adikpo-London,Kwande local government Area Benue stateHe died after a protracted illness which started in 2019. Usende a graduate of Public Administration University Jos,also attended St. Augustine Teachers College Lafia together with late president Musa Yar’Adua. He retired from Benue state civil service as Director of Finance and contested for Ter Kwande in 2009. He left behind six children among them is Mrs. Regina Emmanuel Ande ,a Master Degree student at Modibbo Adama University MAU Yola.
Source:The Guardian
October 07, 2023 16:04 UTC
India flood toll hits 56, army warns on stray munitions
Violent torrents struck Sikkim state on Wednesday after the sudden bursting of a high-altitude glacial lake. Climate scientists warn that similar disasters will become an increasing danger across the Himalayas as global temperatures rise and ice melts. “So far 26 bodies have been found in Sikkim,” state relief commissioner Anilraj Rai told AFP by phone. Related NewsIndia’s defence ministry said in a statement that the floods had washed away “firearms and explosives” from military camps. The army has “established lookout teams all along the river” to recover loose ordnance, the ministry added.
Source:Punch
October 07, 2023 15:39 UTC
‘We are at war’, says Israel’s PM amid Palestinian attacks
Israel’s Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has said “we are at war” in a video posted on X, formerly Twitter. We are at war, not an operation, not an escalation, a war. “This morning Hamas launched a murderous surprise attack against the state of Israel and its citizens. “At the same time, I ordered an extensive reserve mobilization and a retaliatory war with a strength and scope that the enemy had never known. In the meantime, I call on all citizens of Israel to strictly obey the instructions of the army and the instructions of the Home Command.
Source:Nigerian Tribune
October 07, 2023 15:16 UTC
14 dead, 78 injured as 6.3 magnitude earthquake hits Afghanistan
At least 14 people have been killed and 78 injured after an earthquake hit western Afghanistan, officials say. The US Geological Survey said the 6.3 magnitude earthquake struck about 40km from the western city of Herat, close to the border with Iran, at around 11:00 local time (06:30 GMT). More than 70 injured people were being treated at the city’s main hospital, a health official said. Herat is located 120km east of the border with Iran and is considered to be the cultural capital of Afghanistan. In June last year, the province of Paktika was hit by a 5.9 magnitude quake which killed more than 1,000 people and left tens of thousands homeless.
Source:Nigerian Tribune
October 07, 2023 14:30 UTC