Friday, December 31, 2010

Explosion shakes barracks area of Nigeria capital Abuja

Several people have been injured in a blast said to have occurred at or near an army barracks in the Nigerian capital Abuja.

People were seen being carried away after the blast, which hit a beer garden, local journalists told the Associated Press.

A police spokesman told AFP the blast had occurred at the Sani Abacha barracks, and the cause was unknown.

But Nigerian media said the explosion had happened in a nearby market.

Nigeria has a recent history of bomb attacks in the capital and other cities:
¤ On Thursday, two blasts disrupted a political rally in the southern city of Yenagoa, wounding several people
¤ Bomb attacks in the northern city of Jos, a flash-point between Nigerian Christians and Muslims, left 38 people over Christmas
¤ In October, at least eight people were killed in explosions in Abuja as the country celebrated 50 years since independence from the UK

The barracks, named after Nigeria's late military dictator, is located in Asokoro district, home to the presidential palace and said to be the city's most secure area.

Officially renamed the Mogadishu Cantonment, the barracks is still known to many by its old name.

The nearby Mammy Market is said to be popular with politicians and civil servants, attracted by its roast fish eateries.

Source: BBC News - www.bbc.co.uk

Explosion shakes Nigerian capital

Explosion shakes barracks area of Nigeria capital Abuja

Several people have been injured in a blast said to have occurred at or near an army barracks in the Nigerian capital Abuja.

People were seen being carried away after the blast, which hit a beer garden, local journalists told the Associated Press.

A police spokesman told AFP the blast had occurred at the Sani Abacha barracks, and the cause was unknown.

But Nigerian media said the explosion had happened in a nearby market.

Source: BBC News - www.bbc.co.uk

Dangote Group Job Vacancies for Vocational Technical Trainee Scheme

The Dangote Group is a leading industrial conglomerate in the sub-sahara Africa with interest in Food, Cement, Sugar, Salt etc.

JOB TITLE: VOCATIONAL TECHNICAL TRAINEE

As part of its strategy of building a talent pipeline for its future growth requirements, the Group has embarked upon a Vocational Technical Trainee Scheme where selected candidates will be provided with comprehensive vocational skill training for 12 months. Under this scheme, the Group requires applications from exceptionally qualified Ordinary National Diploma (OND) holders who have the right attitude and passion for technical work.

The programme has been designed to equip successful candidates with the hands on knowledge to be competent professionals as well as enhancing their leadership skills in their chosen field of engineering (Mechanical, Electrical and Electronics, Chemical, Welding and Fabrication) that will translate into productive contributions to the growth of Dangote Group and other manufacturing companies in Nigeria.

REQUIREMENTS:
The ideal candidate must have completed his/her OND not earlier than December 2008.
Only candidates who have the following qualifications need apply

AGE: Between 18 – 26 years

GPA SCORE: Minimum 3.0
Minimum O’ Level Credits: 5
including Mathematics and English Language.
Engineering Courses: Mechanical, Electrical & Electronics, Chemical, Welding and Fabrication

APPLICATION DEADLINE: 31ST DECEMBER, 2010

TO APPLY ONLINE, goto:
http://www.dangote-group.com/careers/

Only qualified candidates will be contacted. The selection process includes written test, personal interview.

Pons Medical Diagnostics Job Vacancies for Customer Service Officers/Executive Trainees

Pons Medical Diagnostics operates centres of excellence providing advanced medical diagnostic services in Ultrasound scan, X-ray, E.C.G., Blood Bank, Hormone Assay and Laboratory.

Pons Medical Diagnostics is the pioneer private medical diagnostic centre in Isheri – Idimu area of Alimosho local government, Lagos State in Nigeria

Job Title: Customer Service Officers / Executive Trainees
Job Category: Administrative Services
Location: Isheri/Egbeda, Lagos

Job Description:
• Maintain and update continuously, by local knowledge a log of the availability of staff likely to receive inbound calls.
• File data and performed other routine clerical tasks as assigned and for other departments as needed.
• Operate a variety of standard office machines, including a personal computer and a variety of computer software, phone, fax, photocopy machine e.t.c.
• Communicate and liaise verbally and in writing between customers/suppliers/visitors/enquirers and relevant staff, and respond clearly and effectively to spoken requests over the phone or in person, and to verbal or written instructions.
• Establish and maintain effective working relationships with co-workers, supervisors and the general public.
• Perform reception duties in an efficient, professional and courteous manner.

Application Deadline: 31st January, 2011

Method of Application:
Send you Application and CV to:
info@ponsmedicaldiagnostics.com

or

Address: 289, IDIMU EGBEDA ROAD, ISHERI, LAGOS

Federal University Of Technology, Yola Admission List 2010/2011

The Federal University of Technology, Yola has released its 2010/2011 admission list.

Candidates for admission into the university can now check their admission status by following the instructions below:

Procedure
1. Visit the FUT Yola admission checking portal, goto:
http://www.futy.edu.ng/2010/undergraduate/
2. Select the admission type
3. Enter the required details, then check your status.

Sunday, December 26, 2010

WAEC Releases Nov-Dec GCE Results With 20.04 per cent Pass Rate

GOING by the results of the November/December 2010 West African Senior School Certificate Examination (WASSCE) released yesterday by the West African Examinations Council (WAEC), only 20.04 per cent of candidates who sat that examination are eligible for admission into any higher institution in the country.

The 20.04% represents candidates who obtained credit in English Language, Mathematics and at least three other subjects.

In the past three years, candidates have been posting similar below-average performances in the examination. Only 23.54 per cent of candidates who sat the same examination in 2008 obtained five credits and above including English Language and Mathematics, while in 2009, it was 21.96 per cent.

The results of about 51,876 (representing 16.73 per cent) are currently being withheld for various reasons, including alleged involvement in examination malpractices.

Announcing the release of the results yesterday at the Yaba, Lagos head office of the council, the Head of the Nigeria National Office (HNO), Dr. Iyi Uwadiae, said that of the 324,998 candidates who registered for the examination, 310,077 actually participated in the examination, which was released two weeks before schedule.

Of this figure, 309,431 (representing 95.21 per cent) had their results fully processed, while 15,567 candidates (representing 4.79 per cent) had a few of their subjects still being processed, for various errors and omissions traceable to them.

University Of Port Harcourt (UNIPORT) 2010/2011 Supplementary Admission List

The University Of Port Harcourt (UNIPORT) has released its 2010/2011 supplementary List.

The supplementary list of students admitted to the University Of Port Harcourt can be viewed below.

To view the University of Port Harcourt supplementary list, visit:
http://www.uniport.edu.ng/sup-list.html

Saturday, December 25, 2010

Deadly blast near Nigeria's flashpoint city of Jos

At least five people have been killed in an explosion near Nigeria's central city of Jos, officials say.

The cause of the blast, which also injured a number of people, was not immediately known. Some reports say there were several explosions.

The blast happened in an area that has seen up to 1,000 people killed this year in sectarian clashes.

A local military official told the BBC that security forces were now patrolling the area.

Jos lies on the fault-line between Nigeria's mainly Muslim north and its largely Christian and animist south.

Although the clashes take place between rivals gangs of Muslims and Christians, observers say the underlying causes are economic and political.

Muslims are generally from the Hausa- or Fulani-speaking communities. They are often nomadic people who live from rearing animals or petty trade.

The mainly Christian Berom, Anaguta and Afisare groups have traditionally been farmers.

Some Christian farmers feel they are under threat, as Hausa-speaking Muslims come down from the north looking for pasture for their animals.

In a separate development, suspected Islamist sect members attacked a Catholic church during a Christmas Eve service in northern Nigeria, a military spokesman was quoted as saying by the AFP news agency.

Lt Abubakar Abdullahi said that soldiers had repelled the attack in the city of Maiduguri. No-one was injured.

The report has not been independently confirmed.

Source: BBC News

Friday, December 24, 2010

Main One Cable Company Limited Vacancies for Sales Managers

Main One Cable Company Limited (‘Main One’) is the first submarine cable company offering open access, wholesale broadband capacity in West Africa. Main One is wholly African-owned with a vision to expand the much needed capacity on the African continent and reduce costs of broadband communications across the Continent. This vision is being realized via a submarine cable system that was declared ready for service in July 2010 with initial landing stations in Nigeria, Ghana and Portugal – linking West Africa to the rest of the world via Portugal and the United Kingdom.

JOB TITLE: SALES MANAGERS

Reporting to: Sales & Marketing Executive
Location: Nigeria

Reponsibilities:
• The Sales Managers will be responsible for the sale of wholesale capacity and broadband solutions and manage relationships with targeted accounts to drive increased network utilization.
• They will develop respective plans for aggressive achievement of high value sales in timely fashion and negotiate detailed technical requirements and performance expectations with customer.
• They will also interface with customers at the C-Level and below in the organizations to drive sales and see to effective deployment and growth on the Main One network.

Requirements:
• A University degree in Marketing, Business Administration or related field
• Minimum of 8 years cognate experience with at least 6 in sale of technology or telecommunications products or services in a B2B model
• Excellent communication and presentation skills
• Must also be able to identify customer needs and work with the Main One technical team to proffer appropriate solutions
• Must possess good relationship management and customer service skills.

Remuneration:
Attractive remuneration packages, a pleasant working environment, and challenging career prospects await the successful candidates.

Method of Application:
To apply, please email your curriculum vitae – only once – to:

hr@mainonecable.com

within two weeks of this advertisement. Ensure you indicate your name and the role you are applying for, in the subject line of the email.

All applications will be treated in confidence. Only short-listed candidates will be contacted.

For more information contact:
hr@mainonecable.com

Brawal Shipping Vacancies for Accountant, Auditor, Driver

Brawal Shipping, a group of indigenous Shipping and Allied Companies with vast connection overseas requires for immediate employment, suitably qualified candidates to fill the following vacancies.

1) Accountant (Port Harcourt Office)
- B.Sc Accounting (or HND)
- ACA 1 or 2 years
- Minimum of 5 years working experience
- Working knowledge of at least one popular Accounting package

2) Auditor (Port Harcourt Branch)
- B.Sc Accounting (or HND)
- ACA
- 3 years cognate experience

3) Driver (Lagos)
- Minimum of OND
- Minimum of 8 years driving experience
- Minimum of 35 years of age and must be married

Remuneration:
Remuneration for the above positions are negotiable.

Method of Application:
Interested candidates should forward application and comprehensive curriculum vitae, photocopies of relevant credentials (contact address not P.O. Box) and telephone numbers latest 4th January 2011 to:

The Advertiser
PMB 1193 Apapa, Lagos

OR

Send an Application letter attached with detailed CV to:
missyojo@brawalshipping.com

Consolidated Breweries Plc Vacancies for Confidential Secretary

Consolidated Breweries Plc, a subsidiary of Heineken International, produces and markets "33" Export Lager, Hi-Malt, Maltex and Turbo King Stout brands. We have two breweries and a factory located in the South-East and South-West geographical zones of the country respectively. With over 25 years brewing experience in Nigeria, we are one of the major players in the industry and have continued to contribute to the growth of the Nigerian economy.

We are looking for a focused and determined individual with some experience for the position of Confidential Secretary.

Job Title: Confidential Secretary

The ideal candidate will work directly with a top member of our management team. The role and requirements are outlined below.

The role:
The Confidential Secretary will be based in Lagos and will be responsible for:
- Managing the executive’s daily itinerary and diary
- Keeping an up-to-date diary and promptly updating the executive of any changes when such occur
- Maintaining an effective documentation and filing system
- Scheduling and co-ordinating important meetings/events
- Handling visitor’s requirements and routine matters for the executive’s attention
- Processing incoming and outgoing mails to and from the executive’s office
- Dealing with telephone enquiries as appropriate and noting important messages that must be delivered promptly.

The Requirements:
- B.Sc/B.A or HND in a business related discipline preferably with secretarial background
- Familiarisation with Microsoft Office suite, Internet etc
- Minimum of 5 years relevant experience in a well organised establishment
- Projects a professional image
- Must be able to work with minimum supervision and relate well at all levels
- Must have good interpersonal skills

Remuneration:
Remuneration attached to this position is in line with the existing rates in the industry.

Method of Application:
If you are confident that your experience, skills and orientation have prepared you to succeed in the above position, apply latest 4th January, 2011 with copies of your detailed curriculum vitae and relevant credentials quoting the position applied for on the left-hand side of the envelope and send to:

THE HEAD, HUMAN RESOURCES
CONSOLIDATED BREWERIES PLC.
P.O BOX 159,
LAGOS

ONLY SHORTLISTED CANDIDATES WILL BE CONTACTED

Nigeria grants bail to Iranian held over arms shipment

A court in Nigeria has granted bail to an Iranian man charged with arms trafficking after an illegal shipment of weapons was intercepted in October.

Judge Ishaq Bello of the high court in the capital, Abuja, set the amount at 20m naira ($131,150; £84,940).

Azim Aghajani, identified by court documents as a Tehran-based businessman and member of Iran's Revolutionary Guards Corps, says he is not guilty.

Three Nigerians have also been charged in connection with the incident.

The weapons, which included rockets, shells, mortars, grenades and ammunition hidden among building materials, were found on a ship docked at seaport of Apapa, in Lagos.

Nigeria reported the seizure to the UN Security Council for an apparent breach of sanctions relating to Iran's nuclear programme.

Prosecutors later said Mr Aghajani was attempting to send them to The Gambia, which recalled its ambassador to Iran last month.

Senegal also cut diplomatic ties with Iran last week amid speculation the shipment was ultimately destined for its southern region of Casamance, where a low-level separatist rebellion simmers despite a peace deal.

The Iranian government has said only that the shipment belonged to a private company and was being sent to a "West African country".

In his ruling on Tuesday, Judge Bello said Mr Aghajani's bail application had not been opposed because recent "gestures" by the Iranian embassy in Abuja had "gone down well with the state".

He said the Iranian would next be in court on 31 January.

Source: BBC News

Prof Nnaji speaks on saboteurs of power reform agenda

PROFESSOR Barth Nnaji, is the Presidential Adviser on Power and also, the Chairman of the Presidential Task Force on Power, (PTFP) saddled with the responsibility of driving the government power reform process which has the ultimate aim out transferring the power sector, represented by the Power Holding Company of Nigeria, PHCN to private sector.

In a chat with Financial Vanguard he speaks on issues of saboteurs, labour and tariff and others

Excerpt


What is the reform all about and does it involves loss of Job?
People are not losing their jobs in this process. It is not about loss of jobs, but rather we expect that anybody who is competent would be there and earn more money in the final analysis.

So, what is it that we are trying to achieve?
We want to grow from, something like when Nigeria had over 400,000 lines or subscribers for telecommunication. With that, you had to bribe to get a line, you had to queue sometimes for months and even for years.

When you get it, the line is often not clear, you not are able to make call very easily and you pay a lot more. And the number of jobs in the sector happens to have been limited. That was what we had. Now we are talking of about 70 million subscribers and phone in the hands of everybody in the villages, everywhere. You now have a situation that you do not have to queue up to get your telephone and if your credit runs out, you can replace it. We want to do same thing in power.

We want to have a system when you come home and turn on the light, the light would come up. We want to be able to walk the street because power would be there. If you are running a firm or a company, we want a situation that power would be there cheaply to support your production and these are what the power reform is all about.

So it is not about getting rid of the people who are working there because you would have to ask yourself, where would the workers to work in those companies that would emerge come from? The workers of course would be people who have experience and are already working in the power sector.

They are the ones who would come. So overall, we want to achieve transformation in the power sector and those working there would be part of the materials to be used to achieve that. We would have upgrading of their skills and many of them would earn a lot more. When all these are achieved, the workers in that sector can then go back to the old pride that they used to have years back. I want to tell you that the financial sector is very much geared towards this process.

The bankers’ committee which comprises of the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) all the Chief Executives of banks have their primary agenda to work on and that is power, infrastructure and agriculture. Their belief is that with these sectors working, the Nigerian economy will be transformed.

When do you think this whole process would be completed most Nigerians feel reform process is taking too long?
We think that some aspects of the process would be a continuum, but the transaction process would be completed by the middle of next year if things go well. By the transaction process, we mean the bringing in of core investors into the generation and distribution.

Let me also say that when we talk of core investors, people should not think that these assets would be sold out rightly. They are not going to sold out rightly. The Federal Government would still own shares in them and we would simply bring core investors who would invest and take control of operating the assets.

How is the PTFP going to handle the frustrations from those you said are sabotaging your efforts?
Well, the saboteurs are of different categories and we certainly don’t include the workers as part of the saboteurs. They are not part of the classification, but we rather think that those who are benefiting from contracts and contracts awarded are those we can really characterise as saboteurs and we really want them to know that they may be sabotaging the efforts of Nigerians to get electricity.

So, how do we handle them?
This reform initiative is intended to address all that and as long as the government is moving forward in it, we would definitely get to a logical point of no return. With the power reform, ones people begin to get reliable electricity and at affordable price, you would see that we would have reached a point of no return.

You said the workers are not among those derailing the process, so why are there challenges in the negotiation process?
If you look at it, we do not believe that all levels of workers have the same reluctance. The junior staff union leadership and not necessarily the junior staff are the ones we are talking about. We are not talking about the workers themselves, but the union leaders who happen not to be working in PHCN. So as a result of that, it becomes very difficult to get them to appreciate the interest of the workers themselves.

Their objective is a different objective, perhaps, because they are compensated according to the number of workers and a certain structure. Certainly, if anybody looks at the power reform plans, it is intended really for the workers to be the first beneficiaries of the reform. The point I am trying to make is that those who have interest in the current process would not want the progress of the whole process.

This government has done everything that needs to be done to show that it is very serious and committed to PHCN workers' interest.

Perhaps, the seriousness of government to take the issues of workers seriously may also be the same reason why the leadership of the junior workers’ union seemed to more determine not to want progress to happen. As leaders of the union who happen not to be employees’ of the workforce.

When we talk about privatisation, you would have change of management, from government to private sector. Because of that, the owners would want to discharge their liabilities and that is why we want to negotiate with the workers. So, the new core investors and the owners of the company would now have a new agreement with the workers.

So it is actually a change of ownership issue than removal of workers. It is possibly that a worker who is paid so much money may also decide not to work again. But the advantage of what is going on is that they have a chance to be bought out with pensions running in many cases into millions of naira and after that they can then decide to sign a new contract with the new company.

It is just normal, that is how it is done everywhere. We have always said it that nobody is going to sack anybody because power is not something that you would shut down and maybe few years after, you come and start it again, it is a continuum. So people must be there working, delivering supply. But they have refused to come to the table to negotiate and so, at some point, government would have no choice but to present them with the way forward.

So what are the other mandates of your Task force?
The job of the Task force is to drive this reform forward and to monitor the performance of various government projects in the sector, be it government project or the National Independent Power Project (NIPP). The task force does not award any contract to anybody. We identify those who are awarding contracts and those who are benefiting from contract awarded as some of the major problems of the reform because they would find all kinds of reasons and explanations as to why the process is not good.

If it weren’t that the President is determined to progress this, knowing fully well that is the only way to get Nigerians light as soon as possible, we would have died because these people would have been successful and they would throw all manner of roadblock everywhere.

So, they are number one people who benefiting because we are in darkness, we have even gotten all the details about that.

Do you also subscribe to the allusion that generator importers and diesel distributors should also be factored into the reform process?
We encourage generator suppliers to get into business that would be more sustaining and will help Nigerians to get electricity, rather than be in the business of supplying these generators which end up not being to the benefit of Nigerians.

The fact that you have generator in your house doesn’t help your economic situation and same thing to diesel suppliers. So, we would appreciate if they can come together and purchase some of these power plants, build new ones and for diesel suppliers to maybe get into gas production and transportation. These are very great businesses that can provide them with income. We like them to get into any of the businesses that supports the sector.

One of the fears of Nigerians is that as soon as you place power in the hands of private sector, the tariff would just shoot up, thereby making it expensive for an average Nigerian to have power.

What is your view on that?
That is totally unfounded and I can confirm that to you. You see there are two classes of people who would not suffer a rude shock in the case of tariff increase. That is the urban poor and rural dwellers. Those are the people we want to protect because these are the people who find it difficult to pay high tariff. But people who can afford should pay. They should be able to pay because that is how it is done anywhere in the world.

Nigeria should not be in the business of producing electricity or having people to invest in the business of production of electricity and loose money. People won’t come here to invest and we won’t have electricity.

Therefore, we should make and create an effective system whereby if you invest in the power production, you should be able to get back your money over time.

That is the system. But those who cannot afford will not suffer any kind of tariff increase. We must understand that those who use generator, kerosene, pay far more today, even those who use candle also pay more. But people don’t know all that.

Nigerian sex slave rescue from Mali 'fails'

A senior Nigerian official says plans to rescue thousands of victims of sex trafficking have failed.

Investigators went to Mali earlier this year and estimated that at least 20,000 Nigerian teenagers and women had been smuggled there and forced into prostitution.

A joint operation was then launched with Malian authorities to rescue the women. But Nigerian officials say they have not had enough co-operation from Mali.

The authorities in Mali have refused to comment on the criticism.

Yemisi's story
"I feel like committing suicide when I remember," says Yemisi Ogoda about her journey which ended in Mali.

She was handed to a gang who demanded she repay debts for her travel.

After being beaten and locked up without food for two days, the young Nigerian agreed to work as a prostitute to try to pay the debt.

"They said they would kill me if I did not do it. Nobody will know about it, they will just kill me there, no-one will know," she adds.

She fell pregnant, and was coerced into an abortion. The attempt failed, and, visibly pregnant, she was sold on to another gang, only managing to flee when she was left unsupervised to bathe.

Ms Ogoda survived by begging in the streets until she managed to contact her family.

'Trolley boys'
The network of migration routes that criss-cross West Africa are known to police as a "hot graveyard for migrants", because the number who die on the way is so great.

So-called "trolley-boys" - the trafficking middle-men - run "the relay race", passing their human cargo onwards, with promises of jobs in hairdressing and supermarkets.

The true nature of the "job" is revealed later.

After receiving reports of sexual slavery from aid workers and clergy, Nigerian officials went to Mali to investigate earlier this year.

They said were "nauseated" by what they had seen: Brothels with cubicles in which young Nigerian women, many in their mid-teens, serviced as many as 20 or 30 clients a night, in order to pay off debts incurred to the "trolley-men".

"It is clear it is not consensual," says Arinze Orakwue of Nigeria's National Agency for the Prohibition of Traffic in Persons (Naptip). "They have no freedom of movement. They are not allowed to go outside with you, or even to make a phone call."

Naptip's hard-hitting findings, published on 29 September, also warned of what officials described as "slave camps" in Mali's north - brothels in the gold-mining towns of Kayes and Mopti.

Photographs seen by the BBC reveal precise locations and buildings examined by the team.

'Foreign racket'
The findings were given to Malian police and Operation Timbuktu was launched.

"Operation Timbuktu will be executed with the Malian authorities, to free the girls and ensure their safe return to Nigeria," Simon Chuzi Egede, executive secretary of Naptip, said at the time.

Months later, nothing has happened, and the trafficked teenagers and women remain in the hands of criminal gangs in Mali.

"All of us have failed," says Mr Orakwue, an assistant director of intelligence and communications at Naptip. "The first thing that is preventing their return is support from the Malian authorities," he says.

"What we want Mali to do is say: 'Nigeria, come! We will support you to strike, to engage in law enforcement action, to get the girls back.'"

Naptip officials say that despite assurances of cooperation from Mali, attempts at communication with the Mali police are beingignored.

It is clear that Operation Timbuktu is beset by difficulties: A lack of French-speakers in Nigeria's police able to communicate with Malian officials, slow bureaucracies, and little political interest in the fate of the victims.

Officials say to make headway, they need wholehearted support from Mali.

"There is a perception that it is a Nigerian problem," says one officer. "These are Nigerian women, controlled by Nigerian gangs. So they see it as a foreign racket. But the customers are in Mali."

Mali is a signatory to the UN Palermo Protocol on people trafficking, as well as the UN Convention on Transnational Organized Crime of 2000.

"Definitely, I want to see diplomatic pressure on Mali," insists Mr Orakwue. "It is an emergency."

Logistical issues
Naptip estimate the number of women trapped in Mali to be anywhere between 20,000 and 40,000. Other estimates - from local charities - suggest a lower figure, in the thousands.

Whatever the number, the idea of raiding brothels and mounting a large-scale repatriation of thousands of people across five West African countries poses serious logistical and financial difficulties for Naptip.

To get started, the agency will need wider support. Officers are impatient to begin work.

"We've got visuals, where these girls are located," says Mr Orakwue. "And we're here, not doing anything about it," he says. "We're just sitting here, talking."

Source: BBC News - www.bbc.co.uk

Thursday, December 23, 2010

Duko Freight Nig. Ltd Vacancy for Sales Executive

Duko Freight Nig. Ltd is currently looking for well experienced performance oriented individual for the following position

Job Title: Sales Executive
Ref: 001

Qualifications:
- B.Sc./HND and OND in Marketing or any discipline with flair for marketing.

Responsibilities:
- To be in charge of product marketing, must be aggressive in sales
- A good team player
- To be able to work under pressure with less supervision

Method of Application:
Apply in person with letter of application stating the "Ref No." of position applied for and CV to:

Duko Freight Nig. Ltd
2nd Floor Office, Main Gate Jems Plaza
Aspamda International Trade Fair Complex, Badagry Express Way,
Lagos

Application closing date: 14th January, 2011

Petroleum Technology Development Fund (PTDF) 2011/2012 Overseas Scholarship Scheme (OSS)

Petroleum Technology Development Fund (PTDF) Overseas Scholarship Scheme (OSS) has earned quite a reputation over the years. The programme is designed to meet the long-term capacity requirements of the oil and gas industry through training of young Nigerians in related fields of Engineering, Geological Sciences, Environmental and Energy Studies both at the master’s and doctoral levels.

Beneficiaries are expected to fit directly into the oil and gas industry and/or the academia and contribute meaningfully to development of the sector.

Sponsorship under the OSS is for Master’s and Doctoral Degree programmes in UK universities

2011/2012 PTDF SCHOLARSHIP SCHEME
In pursuit of its mandate the PTDF is inviting applications from suitably qualified candidates for its MSc and PhD Scholarships as well as Undergraduate, under the PTDF scholarship scheme.

Scholarships will be awarded for studies in areas listed below, in the United Kingdom and upgraded Universities in Nigeria for the 2011/2012 session.

However, the undergraduate level will be awarded for studies in Nigeria only.

Application forms can be accessed online using an ATM card or through purchase of a scratch card from designated major branches of First Bank of Nigeria Plc and Skye Bank Plc in all state capitals and FCT, upon the payment of a NON-REFUNDABLE sum of N1,000 (One Thousand Naira Only). Instructions on how to access the form online is clearly stated on the backside of the cards.

For more information and detailed application steps, please goto:

http://ptdf.cinfores.com/

or

http://ptdf.gov.ng/

Vacancy for Sales Manager – Central West Africa Cluster – Maersk Line – Lagos

In line with the Maersk Line Africa 1st strategy, there are huge opportunities to develop this business critical department, and we are looking for an eager, highly driven and motivated individual to work with the commercial departments within the cluster in achieving this.

Maersk Nigeria is pleased to offer the right candidate a great opportunity as Sales Manager for the Central West Africa cluster comprising Nigeria, Ghana, Benin and Togo.

Starting date: Latest April 1st 2011

Dimensions and Scope:
· To deliver and optimize Yield and Volume for the cluster
· To deliver on CSS (Customer Satisfaction) targets for the cluster
· To increase customer satisfaction and loyalty
· To deliver on Productivity targets for the cluster – FFE/Sales FTE
· Deploy clear objectives throughout the sales organization linked to the cluster scorecard and Maersk Line and sales strategy
· Drive a performance culture
· Develop Sales Pipeline mindset supported by effective coaching and competency development
· To recruit and develop sales people and build a talented organization
· To ensure overall coordination between channels, functions, countries and region

Skills and Competencies Required:
· Bachelor’s degree in business or related field
· Minimum 5 years Sales experience in leadership position
· Ability to set clear sales strategy and direction
· Role model for sales leadership-performance management, coaching, time management, attracting and retaining talent
· Role model for customer relationship leadership
· Ability to builds trusted relationships across Maersk Line
· To leverage internal and external relationships to expand business opportunities for Maersk Line
· Possess strong business, customer and market understanding
· Sales process management and possess a pipeline mindset
· Process Excellence (PEX) mindset and ability to visualize and interpret trends from reports and data
· Financial acumen and cost awareness
· Cross functional collaboration

Application Deadline: 7th January, 2010

Method of Application:
To apply online, goto

http://www.maersk.com/Career/Vacancies/Pages/Apply.aspx?vacancyid=55095&language=en

Disclaimer: The owners of this website (www.mynigeria.co.cc) are not affiliated in any way with the companies whose vacancies are published here.

Nigerian Law School Several Fresh Graduate and Experienced Recruitment January 2011

Applications are invited from suitably qualified candidates to fill the following vacancies in Nigeria Law School:

MEDICAL OFFICER (CONMESS 02)
Candidates must possess a degree in Medicine (MBBS) register able with the Dental Council of Nigeria (MDCN) from a recognized institution and must have completed the National Youth Service or obtained a Certificate of Exemption

PHARMACIST (CONHESS 09)
Candidates must possess a Bachelor of Pharmacy degree register able with the Pharmacist Registration Board of Nigeria and successfully completed the National Youth Service Scheme or obtained a certificate of exemption; and with at least one year post registration cognate experience

STAFF NURSE/STAFF MIDWIFE (CONHESS 06)
Candidate must possess the NRN or NRM or equivalent qualification, and be registered with the nursing and midwifery council of Nigeria (NMCN)

LABORATORY SCIENCE II (CONHESS 07)
Candidates must possess a degree in Medical Laboratory Technology from a recognized University and be an Associate member of the institute of Medical Laboratory Technologists (AIMLT). He/she must have completed his National Youth Service or obtained a certificate of exemption

ELECTRICAL ENGINEER I (CONTISS 08)
Candidates must possess a degree in Electrical Engineer registrable with the council of Registered Engineers of Nigeria (COREN) and must have successfully completed his/her National Youth Service or obtained a certificate of Exemption, plus three years post qualification cognate experience

CIVIL ENGINEER I (CONTISS 08)
Candidates must possess a degree in Civil Engineer registrable with the council of Registered Engineers of Nigeria (COREN) and must have successfully completed his/her National Youth Service or obtained a certificate of Exemption, plus three years post qualification cognate experience

PROGRAMMER II (CONTISS 07)
Candidates must possess degree in Computer Technology from a recognized University and must have completed the National Youth Service or obtained a Certificate of Exemption

CONDITION OF SERVICE
Appointment will be full time and pensionable and will be subject to probationary period of two years which after which upon satisfactory work and conduct, the appointment would be confirmed. Other conditions of service are similar to those existing in Nigerian Universities as may be prescribed from time to time by the council of Legal Education. Transfer from a public service or an existing “Schedule Authority” will be considered

METHODS OF APPLICATION
Applicants should submit ten (10) copies of their application, curriculum vitae, and certificates.
Applicants that fail to meet requirement will not be considered.
Applications from persons in Government Service or Public corporations should submit through each applicants Head of Institution or schedule personnel officer together with certified copies of confidential reports for last three years.
Candidates not in the public service or public corporation must each submit names of three referees, one whom must be applicants present or last employer. Such referees should be asked by applicants to write “Reference” direct to the undersigned. Only applications of candidates invited for interview will be acknowledged

HOW TO APPLY
Applications and supporting documents should be forwarded to:

The Secretary to the Council/Director of Administration,
Council of Legal Education,
Nigerian Law School,
Bwari, P.M.B 170 Garki – Abuja

CLOSING DATE
To reach him not later than five weeks from the date of this publication. Applications that do not comply with the above instruction will not be considered

Disclaimer: The owners of this website (www.mynigeria.co.cc) are not affiliated in any way with the companies whose vacancies are published here.

Phillips Recruitment Several Job Vacancies for Graduates and Experienced

Phillips Recruitment is Nigeria’s foremost Human Resource outsourcing and recruitment company. Having existed for many years, the organisation consists of a strong team of highly qualified and experienced professionals with varied relevant experience both locally and internationally. Our work approach is based on a firm commitment to international standards of professionalism and client service.

Phillips Recruitment is currently recruiting the underlisted positions for their various clients:
• TRAINEE ENGINEER
• QUALITY, HEALTH, SAFETY AND ENVIRONMENT COORDINATOR
• SENIOR SITE ENGINEER/PROJECT MANAGER
• HUMAN RESOURCE OFFICER (EMPLOYEE SERVICES)
• Regional Sales Managers
• Medical Representatives
• Sales Representatives
• Area Sales Managers
• Head Human Capital Management & Admin
• National Supply Chain Services Manager
• National Marketing Manager
• National Sales Manager
• National Finance & Accounts Manager
• Business Process Analyst/Consultant
• General Manager
• Foreman
• Supervisor
• Corporate Governance Analyst
• Head, Enterprise Risk Management
• Chief Economist
• Site Manager
• Human Resource Manager
• IT Support Engineer
• Purchasing Officer
• Project Manager
• FINANCIAL CONTROLLER
• HEAD HR
• General Manager
• Project Managers
• Management Accountants
• Human Resources Managers

To view all the Jobs on their website, goto:
http://www.phillipsrecruitmentonline.com/employee/jsViewJobs.asp

Disclaimer: The owners of this website (www.mynigeria.co.cc) are not affiliated in any way with the companies whose vacancies are published here.

Wednesday, December 22, 2010

Expect mass exodus from PDP – Akunyili

Erstwhile Minister of Information and Communications, Professor Dora Akunyili, began her campaign for the Anambra Central senatorial seat on Monday and said that she had been inundated with telephone calls by her supporters on when she would officially kick off her campaign in the state so that they could officially defect from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP).

Speaking at a reception organised for her at Njikoka Local Government Area by the All Progressives Grand Alliance (APGA), Professor Akunyili said she had told the members of the PDP, who she said were eager to dump the crisis-ridden party, to wait as she would soon tell them when they would also officially join her in APGA.

The former minister explained that she resigned from her position in the Federal Executive Council (FEC) so that she could serve the people of the state better through the Senate.

Akunyili, who began her campaign with a tour of the local government areas in the senatorial zone, told the people of the district that she decided to join the APGA having seen the work of Governor Peter Obi in the state and was desirous to join him in making the state better for the citizenry.

Akunyili, while reacting to a reference to her as “a virgin politician” at Abagana, the headquarters of Njikoka Local Government Area of the state, explained that she had been playing politics at ward, local government, state and federal levels since 1992 and therefore could not be referred to as “a virgin politician.”

“I am not a virgin politician. I have played politics at the ward, local government, state and federal levels since 1992. I admit that I am virgin in APGA. However, any politician who has not joined APGA is still a virgin. They should join the party of the future,” Akunyili stated.

Source: Nigerian Tribune – www.tribune.com.ng

Knights and Royals Recruiting Fresh Graduate Trainee Restaurant Manager (Urgent)

Job Description:
A new food outlet in Abuja- Knights and Royals Restaurant is recruiting young, determined and highly motivated individuals for immediate employment.

Position: Trainee Restaurant Manager

Location: Asokoro, Abuja

Requirements/Qualifications:
• Must possess a minimum of 2nd class upper in any discipline
• Must have at least 1 year work experience
• Should not be more than 28 years of age

Method of Application:
Interested applicants who possess all the requirements should immediately forward a detailed copy of their CVs to:
knightsandroyals2010@yahoo.com
on or before 23rd December 2010.

NOTE: ONLY APPLICATIONS FOR THOSE RESIDENT IN ABUJA WILL BE CONSIDERED AND APPLICANTS ARE TO STATE THE POSITION BEING APPLIED FOR
(This is important to avoid disqualifying your application)

Disclaimer: The owners of this website (www.mynigeria.co.cc) are not affiliated in any way with the companies whose vacancies are published here.

IUCN NGO Vacancy for Administrative Assistant (International Union for Conservation of Nature)

IUCN, International Union for Conservation of Nature, helps the world find pragmatic solutions to our most pressing environment and development challenges. It supports scientific research, manages field projects all over the world and brings governments, non-government organizations, United Nations agencies, companies and local communities together to develop and implement policy, laws and best practice.

Background:
The Komadugu Yobe Basin (KYB) Project for improving Land and water Resources Management in the Lake Chad Basin and the Niger Central Basin in Nigeria is a collaboration of Nigeria’s Federal Ministry responsible for water and working through the Nigeria Integrated Water Resources Management Commission. The Project office is located in Kano (in kano state, Nigeria), with possible relocation to Minna (in Niger State, Nigeria).

ADMINISTRATIVE ASSISTANT
Working under the direct supervision of the Project Coordinator, the Administrative Assistant will be responsible for insuring for day-to-day maintenance of the office. Hired under the project-contract, he/she must be a person with extensive experience in secretariat and general office management and computer literate. The team he/she will be supervising will be composed of drivers and other support staff. The incumbent main responsibilities are as follows:
Drafting of corresponding and any other administrative document required as part of the project work
Ensuring the recording, filling and dispatching of incoming and outgoing mails
Serving as contact persons for information request from project partners
Preparing purchase request of the Project
Assist the project coordinator and the project management unit in the organization of workshops, exchange visits to project sites, seminars etc
When deem necessary, serve as interpreter and assist in the translation of documents from Hausa (and other local language in Nigeria) into English and vice versa
Assist the project coordinator in the management of the personnel of the project management unit, and assume the direct supervision of the project support staff; and
Perform other duties to be assigned by the project coordinator

CANDIDATE:
The candidate must meet the following qualifications to a large extent:
Higher level education in administration/secretarial or any other relevant field
Have good command of English (and knowledge of the local language of the project area would be an added advantage)
Have minimum of three (3) years work experience as Administrative Assistant or Executive Assistant preferably with Public Service, Non-Governmental Organization or International Organization
Be computer literate with proven knowledge of software (such as word processing, spreadsheets, e-mail and Internet)

TO APPLY
Interested candidate for any two positions should send their curriculum vitae together with motivation letters which must specifically address the selection Criteria/Requirements in the order presented above. In addition, applicants should provide the names and contact details of three referees, including one recent employer

Human Resources
IUCN – Regional office for Central and West Africa

EMAIL: jobs.paco@iucn.org; daniel.yawson@iucn.org

Applications should be submitted preferably by email, Not later than December 28, 2010 to any of the addresses above

JobFinder’s Tip:
Use “Application for Administrative Assistant” as subject of your email

Disclaimer: The owners of this website (www.mynigeria.co.cc) are not affiliated in any way with the companies whose vacancies are published here.

Fosad Consulting Job: Recruitment for Airfreight Manager

Fosad Consulting Job: Recruitment for Airfreight Manager

Fosad Consulting is a business support services firm with a proven track record. With over 10 years providing critical business support to new and established businesses, the firm has deep, specialized support service skills. Our clientele are some of the top performing brands in Nigeria. Most of our clients have retained our services for over 10 years attesting to the depth in professional services which we continue to offer.

A Renowned Client of Ours, and a major player in the Maritime industry who is looking to expand and grow its airfreight business and operations, requires the services of a:

Position: Airfreight Manager

Specific tasks and area of responsibility:
- Ensure an efficient and cost effective operation.
- Ensure a Strong Sale pipeline.
- Ensure there is strong team in place to proactively manage the airfreight business.

Knowledge and Qualifications Requirements:
- 3-5 yrs of experience from a similar position
- Proven track record of business development, commercial and operational management of an Airfreight business.
- Relevant Qualification in business management, economics, logistics etc.
- Strong understanding of the Airfreight market in Nigeria.
- The position attracts a good and competitive package according to qualifications.

Method of Application:
Note: Interested candidates to kindly forward a copy of their CVs to
jobs@fosadconsulting.com

Disclaimer: The owners of this website (www.mynigeria.co.cc) are not affiliated in any way with the companies whose vacancies are published here.

NetServeAfrica Recruitment for Executive Assistant (BSc, HND)

NetServeAfrica Recruitment for Executive Assistant

NetServeAfrica Limited is recruiting for Executive Assistant.

Job Description:
Write correspondence for MD,
Create project reports,
Manage appointment & meetings schedule for MD,
Screen visitors & phone calls to the MD,
Review financial data for MD and other tasks as assigned
Supervise administrative tasks,
Provide research & administrative support for MD,

Required Skills & Experience:
B.Sc. or HND (2-1) in Marketing or any other related field
2 years experience in marketing solutions or services
Experience in an IT organization would be an advantage

Application Deadline: 21st December, 2010

How To Apply:
To apply online, goto
http://netserveafrica.com/jobs/detail.php?mode=detail&adtype=job&id=935

Disclaimer: The owners of this website (www.mynigeria.co.cc) are not affiliated in any way with the companies whose vacancies are published here.

Tuesday, December 21, 2010

Ikemba Ojukwu down with stroke

IKEMBA Nnewi and former leader of defunct Republic of Biafra, Dim Chukwuemeka Odumegwu Ojukwu, was, yesterday, admitted at the University of Nigeria Teaching Hospital, UNTH, Enugu following a stroke which had kept him unconscious since last week.

Ojukwu, who turned 77, November 4, 2010, suffered the stroke at his GRA residence in Enugu last week and was being treated by his personal physicians until Sunday afternoon when his condition reportedly deteriorated.

He was admitted at the Intensive Care Unit of UNTH at Ituku-Ozalla near Enugu where medical experts and consultants are now battling to return him to consciousness.

One of the doctors at the unit who spoke with Vanguard under condition of anonymity, yesterday, confirmed that the former Biafran leader was on admission and was currently under intensive care because of his failing health condition.

He said: “I can rightly confirm to you that the Ikemba Nnewi had a stroke and was rushed down to the hospital Sunday afternoon. He is in the Intensive Care Unit and a team of medical experts are taking care of him.

“We believe that he suffered a stroke. He is in a good hand as every apparatus of the hospital has been deployed to give him the best treatment. Already a team of consultants and experts at UNTH are working on him. He is being given full attention and monitored effectively.”

Ojukwu, who contested the 2007 presidential election under the platform of All Progressives Grand Alliance, APGA, had been battling with an eye ailment in the past few years.

Some sympathizers at the hospital could not reach him, yesterday, but were received by his wife, Bianca and personal aides.

Ojukwu, at age 34, led the defunct Biafran Republic between 1966 and 1970 toward freedom and separation from the Nigerian State, after massive killings in the North.

Meanwhile, many of his supporters and admirers particularly members of the Movement for the Actualization of the Sovereign State of Biafra, MASSOB led by Chief Ralph Uwazulike, have started praying for his quick recovery.

Sahara Group Vacancies for Trainee Operator Program

Sahara Group Vacancies: Trainee Operator Program

Owning and operating state of the art Bulk Liquid Storage Terminals; and Building, operating and maintaining LPG plants are just 2 of the business activities that the Sahara Bulk Storage Facilities Ltd is presently involved in. At the heart of these operations lies an unrivalled engineering expertise where innovation and continuous improvement is the norm.

We now have opportunities for enthusiastic and talented individuals to join our team across a range of disciplines, which include, but are not limited to:
• Chemical Engineering Background
• Mechanical Engineering Background
• Electrical Engineering Background
• Civil Engineering Background
• Met & Mat Engineering Background
• Industrial Chemical
• Physics

Requirements:
• OND maximum qualification
• 0-2 years Engineering

Experience:
To apply for this position, goto Sahara Group website at

http://careers.sahara-group.com/vacancy.aspx?query=142

Industry: Oil and Gas
Application Deadline: 2011-01-31

Disclaimer: The owners of this website (www.mynigeria.co.cc) are not affiliated in any way with the companies whose vacancies are published here.

Monday, December 20, 2010

Nigerian Bottling Company Plc Vacancies for Business Systems Leader- Finance

Nigerian Bottling Company Plc is one of the few multinational organizations that had its beginnings in Nigeria. From a small family owned operation at inception, we have grown to become the predominant bottler of alcohol-free beverages in Nigeria, responsible for the manufacture and sale of over 33 different Coca-Cola brands.

Position: Business Systems Leader – Finance
Ref: BSL/12/10
Function name: Management Information Systems
Experience: 6
Location: Head Office
Education: Bachelors Degree in Science, Engineering, Information & Communication Technology or Management
Career Type: IT service Management

Role:
The key objective of the Services Leader role is to ensure system health (system functionalities are delivered within scope, on time, in the expected quality, professionally documented)

They will partner with the business in his/her function, support the demand process, IT projects, the change managment process and the application portfolio. Together with CITM BSLs will make sure that CCHellenic’s systems are operating according to SLA standards

Functional Area: MIS

Desired Candidate Profile:
Strong Objective and Analytical ability. With Practical creative and intellectual power

Job Description:
- Reports to Country IT Services Manager
- Support country BPLs/business people to identify, prioritise & capture demands based on the CCH demand process during the BP cycle or on ad-hoc basis
- Propose/present to the business management the available EIT standard solutions & ensures the compliance with company’s EIT standards.
- Act as the main contact link of the business people/Country BPL for change requests that has been assessed from Corporate BPLs & are under implementation, following up on them, ensuring the on time delivery and that they meet the business requirements
- Collect from business people/Country BPL new requirements and documents them accurately before they’re moved for implementation following the CCH change management process.

Application Closing Date: 31st December, 2010

TO APPLY, goto:
http://www.nbcplccareers.com/jobInfo.php?jobid=11

Consolidated Breweries Plc Job Vacancies for Staff Nurse

Consolidated Breweries Plc, a subsidiary of Heineken International, produces and markets "33" Export Lager, Hi-Malt, Maltex and Turbo King Stout brands.

We have two breweries and a factory located in the South-East and South-West geographical zones of the country respectively. With over 25 years brewing experience in Nigeria, we are one of the major players in the industry and have continued to contribute to the growth of the Nigerian economy.

We are looking for a focused and determined individual with some experience for the position of a Staff Nurse in our Ijebu-Ode brewery.

Job Title: Staff Nurse

The Role:
The Staff Nurse will be based in our Ijebu-Ode brewery and will be responsible for:
- Overseeing the activities of the Company’s in-house clinic.
- Supervision of contract nurses.
- Treatment of sick staff, first aid administration and attending to emergencies within the brewery. * Drug dispensation, administration and analysis.
- Monthly clinic reports.

The Staff Nurse will report to a Medical doctor on professional issues and to the Brewery Human Resource Manager on administrative issues.

The Requirements:
- B.Sc. degree in Nursing (Minimum of second class lower)
- Must be a Nigerian Registered Nurse (NRN or SRN)
- Must have 3 years post graduation experience in Nursing, preferably in a manufacturing environment.
- High Professional competence.
- Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
- Evidence of having participated in the NYSC scheme.
- Willingness to work in any part of Nigeria.
- Not more than 40 years of age as at 1st January, 2010.
- Ability to work with Computer systems and softwares – MS Word, MS Excel, MS PowerPoint and the Internet.

Remuneration:
Remuneration attached to this position is in line with the existing rates in the industry.

Method of Application:
If you are confident that your experience, skills and orientation have prepared you to succeed in the above position, apply latest 28th December, 2010 with copies of your detailed curriculum vitae and relevant credentials quoting the position applied for on the left-hand side of the envelope and sent to:

THE HEAD, HUMAN RESOURCES
CONSOLIDATED BREWERIES PLC.
P.O BOX 159,
LAGOS

ONLY SHORTLISTED CANDIDATES WILL BE CONTACTED

Federal University Of Technology Owerri (FUTO) 2010/2011 Admission List

Federal University Of Technology Owerri (FUTO) 2010/2011 Admission List

The Federal University Of Technology Owerri (FUTO) 2010/2011 Admission List has been released by the university.

Candidates who applied to the Federal University Of Technology Owerri (FUTO) can now check their admission status and print the admission notification if they are admitted to the instituition.

To Check Your Result, goto:
www.futo.edu.ng/futoadmissions/futo_putmeAdmissionStatus.php

You have to check your admission status by using your JAMB registration number.

Siasia Threatens To Quit

SUPER Eagles’ chief coach, Samson Siasia, is ready to quit the national team, barely three weeks after landing the job due to what he calls officials’ interference.

Siasia told a source in Holland that the issue of assistants’ appointment remains a bone of contention between him and the Nigeria Football Federation, NFF.

"All the pledge of a freehand for Siasia appears to be unrealistic. There are a number of ex-internationals the NFF expects to form the coaching crew of the Super Eagles but who are not in the plans of Siasia. On the other hand, there are some ex-internationals who Siasia wants but whom the NFF does not like due to their antecedents in the national team," he said.

The source, a close ally to Siasia’s assistant, Kalika, has asked that Kalika should watch events as it unfolds because Siasia might be forced to throw in the towel if the situation persists.

Meanwhile, a member of the Technical Committee of the NFF, informed Saturday Tribunesports that there won’t be any problem between Siasia and the Federation.

"At the beginning like this, things must be sought out," he said.

"We are both operating according to the letters of the contract. Siasia needs assistants but we have to rub minds first and give Siasia the lattitude to pick whoever he wants. However, he has to learn to put his demands in formal writing and justify them. He is the people’s choice, so the NFF will not do anything to distract him."

Source: Tribune Newspaper – www.tribune.com.ng

Fosad Consulting Limited Job Vacancies for Customer Service Executives

Fosad Consulting Limited recruits for a major player in the shipping/maritime sector

Job Title: Customer Service Executives (3x)
Job Category: Shipping/Maritime Service
Location: Lagos

Job Description:
Our Client, a major player in the shipping/maritime sector requires for employment customer service executives(3).

Requirements:
The candidates MUST have at least a year experience in customer service from either a logistics/clearing & forwarding/shipping company.

Method of Application:
Interested persons can forward their applications & CVs to
cnzom@fosadconsulting.com

Application Deadline: 24th Decemeber, 2010

Disclaimer: The owners of this website (www.mynigeria.co.cc) are not affiliated in any way with the companies whose vacancies are published here.

Sunday, December 19, 2010

Ritzy Technologies Job Vacancies for Marketing Executives

Ritzy Technologies is a global IT service provider with years of offshore development and consultancy experience. Binding to our motto ‘innovation through intelligence’, we specialize in diverse software and web development solutions.

Job Description:
We are on the lookout for bright, energetic individuals with a global vision. People who are ready to roll up their sleeves and are not afraid to think outside the box.

The Company requires the services of exceptional and highly motivated individuals as:
Marketing Executives in our Kaduna Office

Note: Only those residing in Kaduna can apply

Application Deadline: 4th January, 2011

Method of Application:
Send your CV to:
career@ritzytechnologies.com

Only shortlisted Candidates will be invited for the interview.

Friday, December 17, 2010

Nigeria drops Dick Cheney bribery charges

Nigeria has dropped charges against former US Vice-President Dick Cheney over a 1990s bribery scandal, anti-corruption officials say.

The case focused on bribes paid by engineering firm KBR while it was a subsidiary of Halliburton, a firm headed by Mr Cheney at the time.

Nigerian officials said Halliburton agreed an out-of-court deal worth $250m (£160m). The firm has not commented.

Mr Cheney, who became vice-president in 2001, has always denied wrongdoing.

Femi Babafemi, of Nigeria's anti-corruption agency EFCC, said Halliburton had agreed to pay $250m "in lieu of prosecution".

He said $130m of the money would be repatriated from foreign bank accounts.

AFP news agency reported that the money in foreign accounts was part of the bribery scheme, but had been frozen before it had reached Nigeria.

Halliburton, which split from KBR in 2007, has not commented on the deal but has insisted it has done nothing wrong.

'No suggestion of impropriety'
According to earlier cases brought in the US, KBR executives paid more than $180m to Nigerian officials between 1994 and 2004 to secure about $6bn contracts for building a liquefied natural gas plant.

KBR was fined $402m by US authorities after pleaded guilty to conspiracy and corruption charges last year.

In a separate civil case in the US, Halliburton and KBR agreed to pay $177m in forfeited profits, without admitting any wrongdoing.

The EFCC had been conducting its own investigations and last week filed 16 charges.

Its indictment named Mr Cheney, who was boss of Halliburton before becoming vice-president to George W Bush in 2001, as well as the firm's chief executive David Lesar, and two other executives.

It also filed charges against Halliburton as a company and four associated businesses.

Last week Mr Cheney's lawyer, Terence O'Donnell, said US investigators had "found no suggestion of any impropriety by Dick Cheney in his role of CEO of Halliburton".

"Any suggestion of misconduct on his part, made now, years later, is entirely baseless," Mr O'Donnell said.

Source: BBC

Thursday, December 16, 2010

Gabiduma Construction Nigeria: Engineering Vacancies

Applications are invited from suitable and qualified Engineers to fill the vacant posts of Chief Engineer [Electrical] and Site Manager [Civil] in our Company.

QUALIFICATION:
Applications must have a degree certificate in the related field [HND/BSC] and must have a least five years working expirience in the area of power transmission lines projects with the ability to tender quotations, Execute and Defend such projects without supervision.

Applicants are advised to send their CV to the Administrative Manager, Gabiduma Construction Nigeria Limited not later than four weeks from the date of this publication – [gabidumaconstruction@hotmail.com

Wednesday, December 15, 2010

Akunyili Resigns, Joins APGA

SPECULATIONS were Wednesday laid to rest when President Goodluck Jonathan reluctantly accepted the resignation of the Minister of Information and Communication, Professor Dora Akunyili.

Consequently, the President has approved the appointment of Minister of State in the Ministry, Mr Labaran Maku, as the substantive Minister. The new senior Minister is now to function without a Minister of State.

Akunyili, in an emotion-laden last briefing after the Federal Executive Council, FEC, disclosed that she was quitting both the government and the ruling People Democratic Party, PDP, in order to achieve her age-long ambition to become a senator.

According to her, she intends to defect to the All Progressives Grand Alliance, APGA, where she hopes to realise the political dream to emerge as a senator representing Anambra Central Senatoral District.

Briefing State House correspondents, shortly after the FEC which was presided over by President Jonathan, at the Presidential Villa, Abuja, Akunyili said her decision to resign and run for the position was borne out of her zeal to serve her people and Nigeria.

“Having reflected over the years about events in Nigeria and in particular my state, Anambra, I have come to the conclusion that it is indeed a defining moment in my life when I should make the sacrifice of leaving a comfortable place to go to a difficult terrain in order to build a better place for our children,” she said.

She stated further, “I have, therefore, decided to join my governor, Peter Obi, who is doing a great job in continuing to build Anambra State as an APGA senator. In this regard, I intend to pick the nomination form today (Wednesday) to run for the office of senator representing Anambra Central Senatorial District in the national assembly”.

Akunyili had earlier in her valedictory address to the FEC, told colleagues “I am deeply grateful to you for giving me the opportunity to serve our dear country as minister of information and communications. I am equally grateful for the cooperation which you, the Vice President, who sees me as his own sister and my cabinet colleagues extended to me in the course of my duties, without which I would not have succeeded”.

She therefore sought the prayers and support of the council members in realising her political ambition.

“As I take this step, I solicit for your prayers and other forms of support. I am making this request because you are my people and my immediate constituency”, Akunyili said.

“Today is therefore a very emotional day for me in council. This is because I have been so closely bonded to most of you that my departure is like leaving a family. My heart is so heavy because in this council, I have found comfort and friendship,” she said.

Maku said President Jonathan reluctantly accepted the resignation of the former minister because of her quality service to the nation but added that since she was in quest of higher political, the president had not alternative than to allow her go.

While wishing Akunyili well in her political journey, the new minister noted that why they worked together as colleagues he enjoyed the best of relationship with the outgoing minister.

Source: Vanguard Nigeria

Elder statesman, Enahoro dies at 87: Gowon, Musa, Adebanjo, Olusola, NGE, others react

The rank of Nigeria’s founding fathers was further depleted this morning with the passing on of frontline nationalist and elder statesman, Chief Anthony Eromosele Enahoro.

Enahoro, 87, died in the early hours of today after a protracted illness.

He had been ill since late September when he fell into coma and had been a regular occupant of the Intensive Care Unit (ICU) of the University of Benin Teaching Hospital, UBTH, where he died.

The death of foremost journalist, anti-colonial and pro-democracy activist, threw the pro-democracy community into mourning Wednesday because of the octogenarian’s his evergreen usefulness, resourcefulness and relevance in nation-building.

Among those who paid glowing tributes to the mover of the first motion for Nigeria’s independence were Former Head of State, Gen.

Yakubu Gowon, Conference of Nigeria Political Parties, CNPP leader, Alh. Balarabe Musa, Afenifere stalwart, Chief Ayo Adebanjo, Amb. Segun Olusola and Presidential aspirant of the Enahoro-led National Reformation Party, NRP, Dr Sam Nwanti. Others are Nigerian Guild of Editors (NGE) and the Edo State Government.

Meanwhile, eminent Nigerian citizens have started pouring in their tributes as they react to the late politician’s death.

In his own reaction, former Head of State, General Yakubu Gowon, felt extremely sorry. “I am so sorry,” the former military leader, whose regime late Chief Enahoro served as Federal Commissioner for Information, regretted. He went on: “It is very sad indeed that we have to lose such a great man, who was very active in the struggle for actualising independent Nigeria. He was also a very active politician who did a lot for Nigeria.” General Gowon said.

He recalled Chief Enahoro’s role in the successes that his government recorded in those days. “I recall him as my Federal Commissioner for Information and through that position he occupied in my government, he ensured excellence and displayed understanding in bringing Nigeria to the fore.

“He had to survive a lot of prisons with Awolowo and when Awolowo joined me in holding Nigeria together, Anthony Enahoro always showed cooperation and made relentless effort at making Nigeria truly strong.

“I am very sad at his death. May his soul rest in peace.” Gowon said, adding that he was going to personally visit his Benin home to pay his respect to the fallen hero when he goes to attend the funeral of the late wife of Edo State Governor, Adams Oshiomhole, Clara, on Friday.

The Nigerian Guild of Editors has described late Pa Anthony Enahoro as a fighter for justice and a great journalist and Editor of repute.

In a release signed by Mr. Gbenga Adfaye, President, the guild said: “The Nigerian Guild of Editors has received the news of the death of Pa Anthony Enahoro today with gratitude to God for a life spent in the service of humanity. Although a star had indeed fallen, the testimonial of the life he lived does not warrant sorrows.

Pa Enahoro left a legacy of what is good for the people.

“Pa Enahoro was not just a great Nigerian and nationalist who moved the motion for Nigeria’s independence. He was first of all a great journalist and editor of repute – having edited The Comet, a member of the Zik’s chain of newspapers. He was a fighter for justice, a crusader for the the emancipation of the oppressed. He dared the British colonialists.

“He confronted the internal colonialists of the First Republic even when it meant he had to face treason trial. He confronted the evil of disintegration as Information Minister. And in the old age when he should have retired to a life of rest, he dared the bullets of the military dictators.

“As he breathed his last, he remained in the struggle to have a fair, just and equitable federation, where no tribe is oppressed. He was for all his life in the quest for a truly democratic Nigeria run on a Constitution owned by the people. He did all of this at great personal cost, digging in into the trenches of liberation war for Nigeria.

“Nigeria has indeed lost a great hero. Africa has lost a great son. And journalism has lost a great, glittering reference point. “May his soul rest in perfect peace and his dream for Nigeria come true.”

Source: Vanguard Nigeria

Nigerian is Poland's first black MP

Poland swears in Nigerian Godson as first black MP

John Abraham Godson, a Polish citizen born and raised in Nigeria, has been sworn in as the first black member of Poland's parliament.

Mr Godson had served as a councillor in the city of Lodz before taking up a parliamentary seat, vacated by a party colleague after local elections.

His entry into parliament has created a media stir in the mainly white country.

He came to Poland in the 1990s, opening an English-language school and working as a pastor in a Protestant church.

He has since married a Polish woman and the couple have four children.

Beaten up twice
A member of the centre-right Civic Platform party, he was appointed to the seat vacated by party colleague Hanna Zdanowskaafter after she became mayor of Lodz.

It is still quite rare to see black people even in the Polish capital Warsaw, Poland's most cosmopolitan city, the BBC's Adam Easton reports.

Racism is still a problem in Poland, where it is not uncommon for well-educated people to make racist jokes, our correspondent says.

Mr Godson was beaten up twice in the early 1990s but he says attitudes to black people in Poland are changing for the better, particularly since the country joined the EU six years ago.

Speaking earlier to Polish radio, Mr Godson said: "I am from Lodz, I will live here, I want to die here and I want to be buried here."

Source: BBC

Guinness Nigeria Plc Job Vacancies: Category Manager

We are Guinness Nigeria, member of Diageo Plc the world’s leading premium drinks business with an unrivalled collection of beverage alcohol & non-alcohol brands across the Spirits, Wine & Beer categories.

Among the incredible portfolio is the Guinness Trademark (Foreign Extra Stout & Extra Smooth), Premium Lagers (Harp lager; Satzenbrau Pilsner & Armstrong Dark Ale), Nigeria’s #1 Malt drink, Malta Guinness & the worlds leading Ready to Drink brands (Smirnoff Ice & Gordon’s Spark).

Our vision is to be the most celebrated business in Nigeria. To help us realise this we this we are committed to world-class standards in procrement. That’s where you come in we are now seeking highly competent & experienced professionals to join our procurement team.

Job Title: Category Manager – ATL & Sponsorships (REF NO: 25793BR)

The Role:
Responsible for the development of stretching category strategies that clearly deliver brand growth by Assuring, Protecting and Creating value for all areas of above the line, Media (Planning, buying and management), sponsorship, and relationship marketing.

Key Responsibility:
• Implementation of Head of Procurement - designated key projects through effective project management, utilising appropriate a-procurement tools to maximise speed, efficiency and drive of benefits e.g. e-RFI’s e-RFP’s, e-auctions, spend analysis.
• Work with Media Agencies/partners to secure best timings and rates for programming deals.
• Develop and agree Agency (Media, PR, Creative, advertising) Work Plans and partner with legal to develop Agency Contracts.
• Develop and implement Standard Media Operating Procedure to improve media administration.
• Lead monitoring & control of media and OOH campaigns to ensure value for money
• Lead outdoor auditing, electronic media monitoring and execution of initiatives to improve compliance
• Develop and agree Agency (Media, PR, Creative, advertising) Work Plans and partner with Legal to develop Agency Contracts.
• Champion and embed compliance of Diageo Marketing Code with the Media, PR and creative Agencies

The person:
- First Degree is mandatory.
- Minimum of 7 years commercial experience, Specialist media planning & Buying experience gained in a Media – buying organization with demonstrated direct responsibility for managing multi-billion Naira media budget (Experience gathered from advertising agency will be of advantage)
- Strong Negotiation Skills
- Minimum of 3 years procurement experience is essential coverial all procurement imperatives (quality, service, cost, risk, growth support, innovation)
- Analytical and numerical skills
- Previous experience of working with or closely with an FMCG procurement Function (prior sap experience an advantage) for an extended period.
- Have a flair for field work and travels

Method of Application:
Log on to www.diageo.com & click on "careers"
Click on "Search & Apply"
Click on "Search openings" go to "key word" (Box 5) and enter the Ref No
Click "search"
Click "View job(s)" to read the detailed job profile
Click on "submit to job(s)" to submit your CV.

Deadline:
Please note that the Closing date for submission of Applications is 28th December, 2010

Tuesday, December 14, 2010

Newborn Health Programme Advisor wanted at Save the Children

Save the Children UK has been working in Nigeria since 2001. The early focus was on getting children actively involved in shaping the decisions that affect their lives. Today, SC UK is working in several states:
Zamfara, Yobe, Jigawa, Katsina, Kano, Bauchi, Kaduna and others
– focusing on child survival, education and protecting children.

Furthermore, Nigeria is one of five priority countries for the Alliance popular campaign in child survival. As the world’s leading independent children’s charity, Save the Children inspires dramatic change for children around the globe.

We are looking for an experienced staff to implement a 9 months Saving Newborn Lives (SNL) funded project addressing the Newborn Health needs of children in Nigeria.

Job Title: Newborn Health Programme Advisor (SNL)

The candidate will support the integration and expansion of newborn health by Saving Newborn Lives (SNL) programme partners.

She/he will provide support to the Newborn and Child Survival Adviser in providing tailored technical assistance to SNL partners and monitoring implementation of programme activities.

She/he will provide technical skills in the areas of newborn health, documentation, monitoring and evaluation, training, materials development and behaviour change communication.

Requirements:
The requirement for the position include a postgraduate qualification in health or related field, 5 years work experience in health/public health organization; including 3 years of experience as a national level trainer/technical assistance provider in RH/MCH with the government or an International NGO.

The candidate must possess experience in RH/maternal, newborn and child health programming. Facility and community based health service improvement is essential.

Annual Gross Salary: N5,000,000.00

Method of Application:
To apply, send your CV and covering letter in ONLY one attached document explaining how you are suitable to:-

vacancy@scuknigeria.org

The subject field MUST clearly state the position you are applying for.

Please note that the position is based in Abuja, but may involve travel.

Application Deadline is 28th December, 2010.

Our selection processes reflect our commitment to the - protection of children from abuse. Our people are as diverse as the challenges we face.

GE Healthcare Jobs : Vacancy for Sales Management

GE Healthcare Jobs : Vacancy for Sales Management

GE Healthcare, our vision involves looking at Healthcare in a completely new way. Focusing on earlier, pre-symptomatic disease detection and prevention, instead of late diagnosis. Helping clinicians access more information and intervene sooner with targeted treatments so their patients can leave longer, fuller lives.

Job Number: 1184325
Function: Sales – Sales Management
Business: GE Technology Infrastructure – Healthcare
Career Level: Experienced
Location: IIkoyi – Lagos, Nigeria

Role Summary/Purpose:
The role will be responsible to manage the operational and administrative activities for assigned territory. To plan and develop processes to improve the operational quality and efficiency of Medical Diagnostics business.
To supervise the dealers in accordance with company’s policies and objectives.
And to work closely with support functions to ensure that revenue and customer satisfaction goals are met.

The position reports directly to Commercial Manager Africa.

Qualifications/Requirements:
1. Bachelors / Masters Degree in Science, Healthcare and/or Business management related courses. Diploma/degree would be an advantage.
* Three to five years experience in healthcare/pharmaceutical industry with a strong sales mentality.
* Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
* Computer literate with expertise in MS office.
* Ability to influence cross-functional teams.
* Willingness to travel and to work a flexible schedule.
* Fluent in English (other local languages would be considered).

Essential Responsibilities:
* Analyze and document business processes and problems.
* Obtain and document business intelligence reports.
* Develop processes to improve operational quality and efficiency.
* Ensure sales target is achieved.
* Propose pricing to meet revenue and profitability targets.
* Supervise dealers in accordance with company’s policies and objectives.
* Work closely with support functions.
* Schedule and conduct regular meetings with dealer and support functions.
* Develop close relationships with customers and stakeholders.
* Ensure productivity and quality goals are met.
* Develop and further strengthen the market.
* Propose actions and budget to ensure overall success.
* Ensure that all activities are done with full compliance.
* Ensure that the right Marketing and Commercial Strategies and Tactics are applied
* Take the lead in the tender coordination process with the support functions.
* Highlight market opportunities in the expansion markets and work closely with the Commercial Operations & Projects Manager.

To Apply Online, goto:-

https://xjobs.brassring.com/1033/asp/tg/cim_jobdetail.asp?partnerid=54&siteid=5346&OReq=1184325

Disclaimer: The owners of this website (www.updatesnigeria.blogspot.com) are not affiliated in any way with the companies whose vacancies are published here.

SPNS Consulting Nigeria Recruiting for Secretary / Administrative Officer

SPNS Consulting Nigeria Recruiting for Secretary / Administrative Officer

Position: SECRETARY/ADMINISTRATIVE OFFICER

JOB DESCRIPTION:
File and retrieve corporate documents, records, and reports.
Prepare responses to correspondence containing routine inquiries.
Perform general office duties such as ordering supplies, maintaining records management systems, and performing basic bookkeeping work.
Prepare agendas and make arrangements for committee, board, and other meetings.
Compile, transcribe, and distribute minutes of meetings.
Coordinate and direct office services, such as records and budget preparation.
Prepare invoices, reports, memos, letters, financial statements and other documents, using word processing, spreadsheet, database, and/or presentation software.
Set up and oversee administrative policies and procedures for the organization.

General Requirements:
Must be an OND, HND or B.Sc. holder in relevant field.
Must be a male and not less than 30 years of age.
Must have a minimum of 6 years relevant and verifiable working experience.

CLOSING DATE: 21-DEC-2010

TO APPLY: To Apply
Online, goto:-

http://vacancies.myrecruitmentengine.com/VacancyDetail.aspx?vid=103

Disclaimer: The owners of this website (www.updatesnigeria.blogspot.com) are not affiliated in any way with the companies whose vacancies are published here.

SystemSpecs Job: Vacancy for Project Managers

SystemSpecs Nigeria Limited is one of the most exciting places to work in Nigeria. In 19 years of our existence, we have become a reference point in the Nigerian IT industry as Nigeria’s leading software house.

We are on our way to becoming Africa’s software institution of reference and are seeking the right people to ride with us.

Career High Drive, Like to Ride with us?

If you...
* Have a very positive outlook to life
* Listen quite well and positively relate with colleagues
* Have a good analytical mind
* Are familiar with current IT trends and can make use of IT.

Current Available Position:

Job Title: Project Managers

Responsibilities:
To lead project planning sessions with our clients with a view to agreeing on project scope, resource allocation and meeting set deliverables within agreed timelines, quality and cost estimation.

Qualification:
Minimum of Bachelor degree / HND in Computer Science, Physics, Mathematics, Statistics or other related disciplines. Professional qualifications in service management and project management.

Experience:
A minimum of 7 years in consulting and customer-facing project and/or service management roles. Experience in leading technical teams in business and financial software implementation environments.

Specific Requirements:
Ability to effectively manage assigned resources, including providing leadership and timely feedback on their varied activities.
Track record of delivering projects within agreed timescales, to a high quality, and expending the least cost.
Good knowledge of business software implementation e.g. SunSystems, SAP, CRM or HCM applications will be an advantage.
Good working knowledge of project management methodology and tools.
Ability to build and sustain mutually beneficial relationships at all levels of customer organization.

Application Deadline: 15th December, 2010

Method of Application:
Apply online at:-

https://www.staffsenta.com/erecruit/EjobDB1/systemspecs.job

Disclaimer: The owners of this website (www.updatesnigeria.blogspot.com) are not affiliated in any way with the companies whose vacancies are published here.

Nigerian Footballer Collapses On Pitch and Dies

THE Nigerian Premier League was thrown into dark moment on Sunday with the death of Ocean Boys of Yenagoa left back defender, Emma Ogoli.

Ogoli, Tribunesports learnt slumped on the pitch of the Samson Siasia Stadium, Yenagoa after playing only for 39 minutes during the team’s week six tie against visiting Niger Tornadoes of Minna which ended 2-1 in favour of the homers.

The stopper who joined Ocean Boys from sister club, Bayelsa United suddenly collapsed on the pitch and was rushed to a waiting ambulance at the stadium but died on the way to the hospital.

In his reaction, Head Media and Awards Committee of the Nigeria Premier League (NPL), Akin Akinbobola described the incident as pathetic, adding that the player’s death was not only a loss to his immediate family and club, but to the the entire Nigerian football fraternity.

Source: Nigerian Tribune

Google Nigeria recruits for Developer Relations Program Manager

Google Africa is recruiting for the position below in West Africa (Ghana or Nigeria)

Job Title: Developer Relations Program Manager, West Africa – Ghana or Nigeria

This position is based in Lagos, Nigeria or Ghana.

The area: Engineering

Simply put, Google engineers make computers do amazing things. Populated by extraordinarily creative, motivated and talented people, our Engineering team gets excited by developing new applications that really make a difference and are used by millions of people. We’re driven by Google’s mission to organize the world’s information and make it universally accessible and useful. If you seek to tackle such challenges as building a highly scalable computing infrastructure, novel storage systems, innovative user experiences or the next big application that will change the world, then this might be a perfect fit for you.

The role: Developer Relations Program Manager, West Africa

As a Program Manager in Developer Relations, you will be responsible for making developers in the region successful by building applications and businesses on Google’s developer products and APIs. You have a strong software engineering background and are an active participant in local technical/developer communities. You will coordinate and execute both online and offline outreach and support programs in the region.

This could include responsibility for large-scale Google developer events such as Google Developer Days or DevFests (i.e. large budget, high attendance, high visibility), as well as having responsibility for content on code.google.com and regional developer blogs.

To achieve your goals, you will work with cross-functional Google product teams, local volunteers, and external vendors. Additionally, you will manage relationships with, and foster creation of, local developer communities, both formal (Google Technology User Groups) and informal (discussion boards, casual meet-ups, non-affiliated user groups). You will meet with local developers and businesses, promoting Google technologies to them.

The Developer Relations Program Manager helps bring awareness to Google’s mission, open web technologies and our developer products within the developer community.

Responsibilities:
Plan and run regional outreach and support programs, including large-scale public events.
Meet with external developers, businesses and technical executives to advocate their adoption of our developer products, explaining business and technical value propositions.
Own regional developer blogs and ensure publication of frequent, high-quality content.
Lead cross-functional project teams and act as the liaison between other global Developer Relations teams and the various developer product and Engineering groups in Israel.
Build and manage relationships with local developer community, industry influencers and bloggers.

Requirements:
BA or BS university degree preferred, ideally in Computer Science or Software Engineering
Proven experience in a technical role in internet and/or mobile industries strongly preferred
Experience with conference presentation or other technical public speaking
Experience as an active participant in technical/developer communities
Strong project and program management skills as well as excellent communication skills

Apply Online at:

http://www.google.com/jobs/africa/developer-relations-program-manager-west-africa-ghana-or-nigeria/index.html

Monday, December 13, 2010

70million Nigerians without portable water – Minister

Minister of Water Resources, Chief Obadiah Ando, has said 70 million Nigerians live without access to potable water supply, noting that this represents 6% of world’s 1.1 billion people without safe drinking water.

The minister, who made this known at the ministerial press briefing in Abuja, Monady, said: “The current water supply service coverage in the country is 54 per cent or 80 million, while sanitation is 32 per cent or 54 million.

“About half of the Nigerian population, 70 million people, is without access to potable water supply, this represents 6 per cent of world’s 1.1 billion people without access to safe drinking water.”

He said there existed an impoundment of about 37 billion cubic meters of water in various dams and reservoirs across the country, adding that “this is capable of irrigating 1,000,000ha, but only 220,000ha has been developed under formal irrigation, out of which a meagre 82, 500hn is actually being irrigated.”

Ando explained that prior to the de-merger of the ministry from the Federal Ministry of Agriculture and Water Resources, efforts had begun to reform the two ministries in order to achieve the goals set by the federal government.

“There has not been any let_up in our determination to see through the reforms.

In this connection, and in order to address some specific areas of the sector, three bills to create two agencies and one commission were forwarded to the National Assembly for enactment into law.

“The Nigeria Hydrological Services Agency has been passed into law, while the Nigerian Integrated Water Resources Commission and the Gurara Dam Management Authority are awaiting passage,” he said.

He said the Nigerian Hydrological Service Agency was informed by the sustainable development of surface and groundwater resources, including construction of viable hydraulic structures, which is based on solid scientific foundation, anchored on hydro-meteorological data.

Ando said “the Ministry of Water Resources, in realization of the social and economic impacts of the communities affected by flood, was putting in place actions that will reduce impact of flooding and economic losses as well as the post-flooding health related like water borne diseases”.

Source: Vanguard Nigeria