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Nigeria Aims to Become a Leading Milk Exporter in Africa Under AfCFTA, Says VP Shettima

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Vice President Kashim Shettima has reaffirmed the commitment of the President Bola Tinubu-led government to harness the potential of Nigeria’s dairy subsector and position the country as a leading milk exporter within the African continent under the African Continental Free Trade Agreement (AfCFTA). The Vice President made this statement during the unveiling of the National Dairy Policy Document as part of the activities commemorating World Milk Day.

Despite consuming an average of 1.6 billion liters of milk and its products annually, Nigeria faces a production deficit, leading to the importation of dairy products worth $1.5 billion each year. Represented by Dr Kingsley Uzoma, the Senior Special Assistant to the President on Agribusiness and Productivity Enhancement, Shettima emphasized that the National Dairy Policy will serve as a roadmap for revitalizing the dairy industry in the coming years.

Nigeria’s Vice President Kashim Shettima.

The Tinubu administration aims to achieve national production security and eventually export dairy products to other African countries under the AfCFTA. The implementation of the National Dairy Policy is expected to improve dairy farming practices, increase investment in dairy processing and preservation, facilitate evidence-based policy implementation, foster collaboration, ease business operations, promote public-private partnerships, embrace technology and innovation, empower women and youth-centric business models, ensure good animal health practices, and monitor progress.

Shettima highlighted the significant investments from local and international firms, such as Friesland WAMCO and Danone’s Fan Milk, which have launched extensive backward integration projects to boost local milk production, create jobs, and promote economic development. These investments involve establishing state-of-the-art dairy farms and processing facilities, reducing the need for imports and enhancing food and nutritional security.

Nigeria’s Vice President Kashim Shettima.

The Vice President emphasized the importance of comprehensive development strategies, greater investment, and better regulatory frameworks to support the growth and impact of the dairy industry. He also noted the potential of technology, innovation, and public-private partnerships in streamlining operations, boosting productivity, and facilitating access to finance and resources.

Senator Abdullahi Sabi, the Minister of State for Agriculture and Food Security, presented the highlights of the National Dairy Policy, which aims to create an enabling environment, generate jobs, reduce imports, set milk production targets, establish milk collection centres, facilitate cooperative business structures, attract massive investments, improve nutrition, build capacity, support livestock farmers, promote financial empowerment, develop products, and ensure sustainability.

The transformation of Nigeria’s dairy sector is a collective responsibility that requires the concerted efforts of the government, private sector, and all stakeholders. By working together, Nigeria can harness the nutrition and investment opportunities in a sustainable dairy value chain, ensuring the industry’s continued growth, providing quality nutrition, creating jobs, achieving food security, and driving economic growth.

 Slovenia Becomes Latest European Nation to Officially Recognize Palestinian Statehood

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A man puts up the flag of Palestine as members of parliament applaud after the Slovenian parliament approved the recognition of an independent Palestinian state, in Lubljana, Slovenia June 4, 2024. REUTERS/Borut Zivulovic

In a historic move, Slovenia has joined a growing list of European countries, including Spain, Ireland, and Norway, in formally recognizing Palestinian statehood. The decision came after the Slovenian parliament approved the motion with a majority vote on Tuesday, further solidifying the global support for the Palestinian cause.

The vote, which took place during an extraordinary parliament session, saw 52 votes in favor and zero against, as reported by Slovenia’s national broadcaster RTV Slovenija. The recognition comes amid ongoing tensions between Israel and Palestine, particularly in the wake of Israel’s recent military offensive in Gaza.

Slovenia’s Foreign Minister Tanja Fajon celebrated the decision on social media, stating, “Today is a historic day! The National Assembly of Slovenia has officially recognized Palestine, making Slovenia the 147th country to do so. This recognition is an expression of our commitment to peace and justice. Slovenia is on the right side of history, contributing to the two-state solution for lasting peace.”

A man puts up the flag of Palestine as members of parliament applaud after the Slovenian parliament approved the recognition of an independent Palestinian state, in Lubljana, Slovenia June 4, 2024. REUTERS/Borut Zivulovic

The recognition of Palestinian statehood by Slovenia and other European nations is expected to bolster the Palestinian cause on a global scale. However, it may also strain relations with Israel, which has been facing increasing criticism for its actions in Gaza.

According to the Ministry of Health in Gaza, Israeli attacks have claimed the lives of at least 36,550 Palestinians and injured another 82,959 since the start of the military offensive on October 7. The offensive was launched after the militant group Hamas, which governs Gaza, killed at least 1,200 people and abducted more than 250 others.

Earlier this month, a panel of independent UN experts condemned “the continued and systematic onslaught of violence committed against Palestinians in Gaza.” The agency has repeatedly called for a ceasefire in Gaza and the release of hostages taken by Hamas.

Slovenia’s foreign minister emphasized that the country believes a two-state solution is the only path to lasting peace in the Middle East. She added that Slovenia “will tirelessly continue to work on the security of both nations, Palestinians and Israelis.”

The two-state solution, which has been the goal of the international community for decades, is seen by many nations as the only way to resolve the long-running conflict between Israel and Palestine. While Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu previously endorsed the idea under pressure from the Obama administration, he has recently stated that recognizing a Palestinian state post-October 7 would be a “reward for terror.”

The vast majority of the population in Gaza are descendants of 700,000 Palestinians who were displaced during the 1948-49 war, known as al-Nakba or “the catastrophe,” in what is now Israel.

As more European nations formally recognize Palestinian statehood, the international community continues to call for a peaceful resolution to the ongoing conflict and the establishment of a viable two-state solution.

Ukrainian Forces Claim Successful Strike on Russian Missile System Inside Russian Territory Using Western Weapons

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In a bold move, Ukrainian forces have reported a successful strike on a Russian S-300 missile system within Russian territory, utilizing weaponry provided by Western nations. The announcement was made by Ukrainian government minister Iryna Vereshchuk, who shared compelling evidence of the strike on social media, stating, “It burns beautifully. It’s a Russian S-300. On Russian territory. The first days after permission to use Western weapons on enemy territory.”

This development comes in the wake of recent authorization from US President Joe Biden, allowing Ukraine to conduct limited strikes using US-supplied arms within Russian territory surrounding Kharkiv. The decision follows the lifting of restrictions by several European countries on the use of such weapons by Ukraine.

While the specific source of the weapons involved in the reported strike remains unclear, Ukraine had long sought approval from Washington to target Russian soil with US-supplied armaments, particularly amidst Moscow’s intensified assault on Kharkiv. The approval granted by the US, although groundbreaking, comes with constraints and conditions. Ukraine is permitted to strike targets only around Kharkiv and is restricted from employing certain munitions, such as the long-range ATACMS missiles, capable of reaching targets up to 300 kilometers away.

Although military analysts view the decision positively, they urge caution against inflated expectations. The utilization of shorter-range GMLRS missiles enables Ukraine to disrupt Russian military operations near Kharkiv but may not significantly alter the overall dynamics of the conflict.

This shift in policy marks a significant departure in the conflict, with previous Ukrainian strikes on territory claimed by Russia, such as occupied Crimea, having occurred using Western-supplied weaponry. Despite warnings from Russian President Vladimir Putin regarding potential consequences, the US and several European nations have removed restrictions on Ukraine’s use of supplied weapons.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has welcomed Biden’s decision as a positive step in bolstering Ukraine’s defense capabilities in the face of ongoing hostilities in the Kharkiv region.

Woman Arrested for Attempting to Flush Newborn Baby Down IHOP Toilet

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In a disturbing and tragic incident, a woman identified as Shaniqua Caldwell, 35, was arrested after allegedly attempting to flush a newborn baby down the toilet at an IHOP restaurant in Bowling Green, Kentucky. The shocking event unfolded after police received a 911 call reporting a bleeding woman in the bathroom, whom witnesses believed may have suffered a miscarriage.

According to the Bowling Green Daily News, when police arrived at the scene, the woman had already left the restaurant. However, they discovered the body of a newly born infant in the toilet. Caldwell was later found in the parking lot of a nearby Red Roof Inn.

During questioning, Caldwell admitted to being at the IHOP but denied being pregnant. She also made unusual claims, such as being related to celebrities Michael Jordan and Denzel Washington, and not having had sex in six years. Detective Kyle Scharlow, who interacted with Caldwell, expressed concern about her mental state and welfare, particularly after she refused medical treatment despite the likelihood of having just given birth.

Due to the belief that Caldwell posed a potential danger to herself, she was taken into custody for an emergency mental health evaluation. She was unable to provide a local address and claimed to be from New York but did not offer an address there either.

Following her release, Caldwell was booked into Warren Country Regional Jail on a Class A misdemeanor charge of Concealing the Birth of an Infant. This charge, enacted in Kentucky in 1975, applies to individuals suspected of concealing the corpse of a newborn to hide the fact that it was born or to prevent the determination of whether it was born dead or alive.

The cause of the baby’s death is currently pending an autopsy, and depending on the results, additional charges may be filed. Caldwell is being held on a $2,500 bond, with police citing the lack of identifying information she provided as a strong indication that she would not appear in court if simply cited and released.

This heartbreaking incident has left the community in shock and mourning for the loss of an innocent life. As the investigation continues, authorities hope to uncover the full truth behind this tragic event.

Credit: Tabfoo.com

16-Year-Old Charged with Premeditated Murder , Stabs 15-Year-Old to Death at Sleepover

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In a chilling and disturbing incident, Alexander Warren Hernandez, a 16-year-old Florida teen, has been arrested and charged with premeditated first-degree murder in the death of 15-year-old Connor Michael Gill. The alleged attack occurred during a sleepover hosted by Gill at his Wildwood, Florida home on Saturday, June 1, around 10 pm.

Alexander Warren Hernandez, a 16-year-old Florida teen.

According to the Sumter County Sheriff’s Office, Hernandez arrived at the sleepover unannounced and forcefully gained entry into the residence by banging on the door. As Gill attempted to unlock the door, Hernandez allegedly stabbed him and threatened another victim present at the scene. An adult, who came to investigate the commotion, was also stabbed by the suspect.

Emergency services responded to the scene and provided immediate treatment to both stabbing victims before airlifting them to nearby hospitals. Tragically, Gill succumbed to his injuries and was pronounced dead approximately three hours later, at 1:19 am.

Authorities have confirmed that the suspect was known to the victim, and both had withdrawn from Sumter County Schools to pursue homeschooling. Hernandez allegedly fled the scene on foot but was apprehended by law enforcement later that evening.

In a video shared on the Sheriff’s Facebook page, Undersheriff Pat Breeden revealed the two weapons allegedly used in the attack: a pocketknife and a handheld scythe, both of which were still in Hernandez’s possession at the time of his arrest. Breeden emphasized the premeditated nature of the attack, stating that the suspect had confessed to ordering the weapons online the previous Thursday. Upon receiving the weapons on Saturday, Hernandez allegedly unpacked them, briefly played with them, and then walked nearly six miles to Gill’s residence to carry out the attack.

The murdered victim.

While the motive behind this violent and premeditated act remains unclear, authorities are confident that additional charges may be forthcoming as the investigation progresses. Breeden concluded by reiterating the severity of the incident, stating, “One thing’s for certain, this was a violent and premeditated attack.”

The tragic loss of Connor Michael Gill has left the community in shock and mourning, as they grapple with the senseless violence that claimed the life of a young boy. The incident serves as a stark reminder of the importance of addressing mental health issues and the need for increased awareness and prevention of such heinous acts.

Toofab.com

Driver Found Shot Dead Inside Crashed Vehicle

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Harris County authorities are investigating a tragic incident that occurred on Monday evening, where a driver was discovered shot to death inside a wrecked vehicle on the westbound North Sam Houston Tollway connector ramp leading to the I-45 North Freeway. The troubling circumstances surrounding the individual’s death have left investigators searching for answers and working to piece together the events that led to this fatal outcome.

According to the Harris County Precinct 4 Constable’s Office, deputies were dispatched to the tollway in response to reports of a single-vehicle crash. The vehicle in question had collided with the wall of the connector ramp that leads to both the north and southbound lanes of the I-45 freeway. As deputies approached the wreckage, they made a grim discovery – the driver inside the vehicle was already deceased.

Upon closer examination, deputies noticed that the victim appeared to have sustained a gunshot wound, adding a sinister element to the already tragic scene. This revelation prompted authorities to launch a comprehensive investigation into the incident, as they work to determine whether the driver’s death was the result of foul play or a self-inflicted wound.

In order to preserve the integrity of the crime scene and allow investigators to thoroughly examine the area, the connector ramp was completely shut down. This closure undoubtedly caused significant traffic disruptions for commuters in the vicinity, but authorities deemed it necessary to ensure that no evidence was compromised and to provide a safe working environment for the investigators on site.

As of now, the constable’s office has not released any further details about the victim’s identity, the circumstances leading up to the crash, or any potential suspects in the case. The lack of additional information has left the community with more questions than answers, as they grapple with the unsettling nature of this incident.

The discovery of a driver shot dead inside a crashed vehicle on a busy tollway connector ramp has sent shockwaves through the local community. Incidents like these serve as a stark reminder of the unpredictable and sometimes violent nature of our society, and they underscore the importance of thorough and diligent investigative work by law enforcement agencies.

As the investigation into this tragic event continues, the public eagerly awaits further updates from the Harris County Precinct 4 Constable’s Office. In the meantime, the community mourns the loss of yet another life taken under mysterious and troubling circumstances.

75-Year-Old Woman Sentenced to 2 Years in Prison for Praying Outside Abortion Clinic

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Paulette Harlow, a 75-year-old woman, has been sentenced to two years in prison by Judge Colleen Kollar-Kotelly for praying outside a Washington D.C. abortion clinic. The sentencing, which took place on May 31, has ignited a heated debate about the application of the Freedom of Access to Clinic Entrances (FACE) Act and the rights of pro-life activists.

Harlow was arrested along with eight other pro-lifers on October 22, 2020, while visiting the Washington Surgi-clinic. The group sat outside the clinic doors, singing hymns and praying for the unborn babies and their mothers. The FACE Act, under which they were convicted, prohibits “violent, threatening, damaging, and obstructive conduct intended to injure, intimidate, or interfere with the right to seek, obtain, or provide reproductive health services.”

Paulette Harlow, a 75-year-old woman, and her praying group.

During the sentencing, Harlow’s husband pleaded for mercy, expressing concern that his wife might die alone in prison due to her age and health issues. However, Judge Kollar-Kotelly seemed unmoved by the plea, allegedly stating that Harlow could “make an effort to remain alive” as it is a “tenet of [Harlow’s] religion.”

Other pro-life activists who participated in the protest at the Washington Surgi-clinic have also been charged and sentenced. Lauren Handy, 30, received a 57-month prison sentence and three years of probation for linking herself with fellow pro-lifers and engaging in prayer and hymn-singing. Other individuals sentenced include Josh Darnel (34 months), Jean Marshall (24 months), Heather Idoni (24 months), John Hinshaw (27 months), William Goodman (27 months), Joan Bell (27 months), and Herb Geraghty (27 months).

Paulette Harlow, a 75-year-old woman and her husband.

The case has sparked controversy, with some arguing that the sentencing is disproportionate and infringes upon the right to peaceful protest and religious freedom. Critics have pointed out that protesters for other causes, such as animal rights, Palestinian rights, Black Lives Matter, climate change, and LGBTQ+ issues, are often celebrated rather than incarcerated for their actions.

Paulette Harlow, a 75-year-old woman.

The sentencing of Paulette Harlow and her fellow pro-life activists has reignited the ongoing debate about the balance between the right to protest and the protection of access to reproductive health services. As the case continues to generate discussion, it has become a focal point for those who believe that the justice system is being influenced by a left-leaning agenda.

The case is likely to have far-reaching implications for the future of pro-life activism and the interpretation of the FACE Act. As the controversy surrounding the sentencing unfolds, it remains to be seen how the public and legal community will respond to what many perceive as a violation of the fundamental right to freedom of speech and religious expression.

Landlord in Nigeria Collapses and Dies Following Heated Argument with Tenant Over Unpaid Rent

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In a tragic incident that unfolded in Arigbagbu village, Sotubo, Sagamu local government area of Ogun State, Nigeria, a landlord named Benjamin Apeh reportedly collapsed and died after engaging in a heated argument with his tenant over unpaid house rent. The news of the landlord’s untimely demise was confirmed in a statement released by the Police Public Relations Officer, SP Omolola Odutola, on Tuesday.

According to the police report, the matter was brought to their attention by the deceased’s daughter, Precious Apeh, who filed a complaint at approximately 5:00 pm on Monday. Precious Apeh informed the authorities that her father had been involved in a dispute with his tenant at around 7:20 pm on Saturday, stemming from the tenant’s failure to pay the due house rent.

The police spokesperson, SP Omolola Odutola, revealed that Precious Apeh recounted hearing her father arguing with the tenant in front of their house at around 6:30 am on Sunday. During the altercation, the tenant allegedly threatened to kill the landlord. Tragically, amidst the heated exchange, Benjamin Apeh collapsed and was immediately rushed to the NNPC Hospital in Mosimi. However, despite medical intervention, the attending doctor later confirmed his death.

In the aftermath of the incident, the suspect fled the scene, prompting the police to launch a manhunt to apprehend the individual. Detectives, led by SP Temitope Fapohunda, visited the location to gather evidence and photograph the scene. The police have assured the public that further updates will be provided as the investigation progresses.

SP Omolola Odutola emphasized that a thorough investigation into the case has been initiated, and the deceased’s body has been deposited at the Olabisi Onabanjo University Teaching Hospital (OOUTH) Morgue in Sagamu for further examination.

The untimely death of Benjamin Apeh has sent shockwaves through the local community, highlighting the escalating tensions that can arise between landlords and tenants over rental disputes. The incident serves as a grim reminder of the need for peaceful conflict resolution and the importance of maintaining open lines of communication to prevent such tragic outcomes.

As the police continue their investigation, the family and loved ones of Benjamin Apeh are left to grapple with the sudden loss of their beloved father and landlord. The community eagerly awaits the apprehension of the suspect and the resolution of this heartbreaking case, which has once again brought to the forefront the complex dynamics of landlord-tenant relationships in Nigeria.

Tribuneng.com

Millions Leave United Methodist Church Over Homosexuality

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The United Methodist Church, a global Protestant denomination headquartered in the United States, has experienced a significant setback as more than one million of its members abruptly severed ties with the church following a recent rule change regarding homosexuality. The mass exodus, led by the Ivory Coast division known as EMUCI, which boasts an estimated 1.2 million followers, has left the church reeling from the sudden loss of a substantial portion of its worldwide membership.

The United Methodist Church, a worldwide denomination of Protestantism which is headquartered in the US.

The controversy stemmed from a North Carolina conference held in early May, during which the United Methodist Church amended its regulations to allow for the ordination of gay pastors and the celebration of same-sex marriages. In response to this decision, Bishop Benjamin Boni, president of the Ivory Coast division, accused the international leaders of “deviating from the Holy Scriptures” and “sacrificing its honor and integrity to honor the LGBTQ community.” The EMUCI, which joined the United Methodist Church in 2002, voted to separate from the umbrella organization on May 28 during a gathering at the Jubilee Temple of Cocody in Abidjan, citing “reasons of conscience.”

The first openly gay Bishop in the United Methodist Church Karen Oliveto.

The departure of the Ivory Coast division deals a severe blow to the United Methodist Church, as EMUCI represented the largest overseas jurisdiction, accounting for approximately 12 percent of the church’s global membership. The United Methodist Church itself was formed in 1968 through the merger of the Evangelical United Brethren Church and the Methodist Church, and questions surrounding homosexuality have long been a contentious issue within the denomination. Prior to the recent rule change, the church had upheld bans on same-sex marriage and the inclusion of homosexual pastors.

Bishop Benjamin Boni is president of the Abidjan Church.

Karen Oliveto, the first openly gay Bishop in the United Methodist Church, spoke out about the divisions within the church last year. In an interview with CBS News Colorado, she expressed concern about the segment of the church that was leaving due to their opposition to inclusivity, stating, “They’re building a church based on who they’re leaving out. And you have to wonder: If you’re building a church on how you are leaving out, are you letting Jesus in?” Despite her election being declared invalid after she came out in 2017, Oliveto remains in office in the Mountain Sky region, which covers Montana, Wyoming, Colorado, and Utah. In April 2024, she also spoke out against the UMC Book of Discipline’s description of homosexuality as “incompatible with Christian teaching,” a stance that has since been removed.

United Methodist Church of Ivory Coast. Jubilee Temple of Cocody where the historic separation was formalized on May 28 .

The mass exodus of over one million members from the United Methodist Church highlights the deep-rooted divisions within the denomination regarding issues of sexuality and inclusivity. As the church grapples with the aftermath of this significant loss, it faces the challenge of reconciling its evolving stance on homosexuality with the beliefs and values held by its diverse global membership. The future of the United Methodist Church and its ability to maintain unity amidst ongoing theological and social debates remains uncertain in the wake of this unprecedented exodus.

Credit: Dailymail.com

Massive Tanker Explosion Rocks Port Harcourt, Nigeria, Causing Widespread Damage and Panic

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In a shocking incident that sent tremors through the oil-rich city of Port Harcourt, Nigeria, a tanker carrying what is believed to be Liquefied Natural Gas (LNG) exploded on Tuesday morning at approximately 9:30 am. The blast, which occurred while the tanker was attempting to navigate a roundabout, caused extensive damage to the surrounding area and left residents in a state of panic and disbelief.

Eyewitnesses reported that the force of the explosion was so powerful that it was felt several kilometers away from the epicenter. Residents in the vicinity of the blast described the terrifying moment when their windows shattered, and the ground beneath their feet shook violently. The vibrations from the explosion were so intense that even those further away from the scene could feel the tremors, highlighting the sheer magnitude of the incident.

As news of the explosion spread, emergency services, including the Fire Service, rushed to the scene to contain the raging inferno that engulfed the tanker and threatened to spread to nearby structures. Firefighters battled the blaze tirelessly, while a large crowd of onlookers gathered around the perimeter, despite the presence of heavy security personnel who were deployed to maintain order and ensure public safety.

Miraculously, initial reports suggest that there were no casualties in the incident, as the driver of the tanker managed to escape from the vehicle just moments before it exploded. However, the extent of the damage caused by the blast remains to be assessed, as authorities have yet to release an official statement regarding the incident.

Amidst the chaos and confusion, a mild drama unfolded when a scavenger attempted to steal parts from the wrecked tanker. The crowd, outraged by the individual’s actions, quickly apprehended the suspect and handed him over to the police, demonstrating the community’s commitment to maintaining law and order even in the face of such a devastating event.

As the people of Port Harcourt come to terms with the shock and horror of the tanker explosion, questions are being raised about the safety measures in place for the transportation of hazardous materials like LNG through densely populated areas. The incident serves as a stark reminder of the potential dangers associated with the oil and gas industry, which forms the backbone of Nigeria’s economy.

In the aftermath of the explosion, residents and authorities alike are calling for a thorough investigation into the cause of the incident and the implementation of stricter regulations to prevent similar occurrences in the future. The tanker explosion in Port Harcourt has not only left physical scars on the city but has also shaken the sense of security and well-being of its inhabitants, who now look to their leaders for answers and assurances that their safety will be prioritized above all else.

Channelstv.com