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OKUN-ADE YORUBA COMMUNITY IN DALLAS MOURN 42ND OLUBADAN

PUSH NEWS 24 INTERNATIONAL : March 15th, 2024

Press Statement

Condolences on the Passing of HRM Oba (Sen) Olalekan Salami, 42nd Olubadan of Ibadan

Dallas, TX – [Date]

The Yoruba Diaspora community, represented by HRM Oba Abimbola Akile Balogun, the Akile of Okun-Ade, Dallas TX, USA, extends its deepest condolences to the esteemed people of Great Ibadan land and the entire Yoruba Nation, both at home and in diaspora, on the passing of HRM Oba (Sen) Olalekan Balogun, the revered 42nd Olubadan of Ibadan land.

HRM Oba Olalekan Balogun’s departure leaves a profound void, not only in the city of Ibadan but in the heart of every Yoruba across the globe. His wisdom, dedication, and commitment to service have etched an indelible mark on our collective heritage.

In this period of mourning, we stand united with the people of Ibadan, paying homage to the memory of Oba Olalekan Balogun and the remarkable impact he made during his brief tenure. May his legacy of promoting peace, driving progress, and fostering unity serve as a guiding beacon for future Yoruba generations.

As we somberly reflect on the loss of this revered leader, may his enduring legacy of peace, progress, and unity continue to inspire all Yoruba traditional leadership, both at home and abroad.

During this time of grief and remembrance, our thoughts and prayers are unwaveringly with the people of Great Ibadan City. May you find comfort and solace in the cherished memories and enduring legacy of HRM Oba Olalekan Balogun.

Eku Ara fe ra ku!

With heartfelt condolences,

HRM Oba Abimbola Akile Balogun

Akile of Okun-Ade
Dallas TX, USA

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Africa Entertainment USA/Europe

IMPORTANCE OF PROMOTING YORUBA LANGUAGE IN DIASPORA- OBA AKILE (Part 1)

PUSH NEWS 24 INTERNATIONAL: March 5th, 2024

In a new twist to revamp the Yoruba language, the Akile of Okun-Ade, Yoruba African Community in Dallas, Texas, USA, HRM Oba Abimbola Akile Balogun has joined the called on Nigerians who are of Yoruba descent to ensure deliberate efforts in promoting the Yoruba language across all spheres of life.

The US based Yoruba leader made this assertions in a recent media release which was sighted by Push News 24 International and made available to the public.

MEDIA RELEASE

Importance of Promoting the Yoruba Language in Diaspora Highlighted by Oba Abimbola Akile Balogun (Part I), Oba of Dallas

Dallas, TX – March 5, 2024 – Oba Abimbola Akile Balogun , the esteemed Oba of Dallas, has underscored the critical significance of promoting the Yoruba language within the diaspora community. Recognizing the profound cultural richness embedded within the Yoruba heritage, Oba Balogun emphasizes the imperative of preserving and perpetuating this linguistic tradition among Yoruba descendants residing outside of Nigeria.

With a legacy deeply rooted in the preservation of Yoruba culture, Oba Balogun has initiated numerous endeavors aimed at fostering a deeper connection to the language and traditions of the Yoruba people. Through educational initiatives, cultural programs, and community outreach efforts, Oba Balogun advocates for the active engagement of Yoruba diaspora members in embracing and celebrating their linguistic and cultural heritage.

“The Yoruba language serves as a conduit for preserving our identity, heritage, and values,” remarked Oba Abimbola Akile Balogun I. “By promoting the Yoruba language within the diaspora, we not only honor our ancestors but also empower future generations to embrace their roots and contribute to the enrichment of our global community.”

In addition to promoting linguistic proficiency, Oba Balogun stresses the societal benefits of multilingualism and cultural diversity. By nurturing fluency in the Yoruba language among diaspora youth, Oba Balogun envisions a future where cultural exchange and mutual understanding thrive, fostering stronger bonds between individuals of diverse backgrounds.

As the custodian of Yoruba culture in Dallas, Oba Abimbola Akile Balogun I remains steadfast in his commitment to advancing initiatives that promote cultural preservation, linguistic proficiency, and community cohesion. Through collaborative efforts and unwavering dedication, Oba Balogun endeavors to ensure that the vibrant tapestry of Yoruba culture continues to flourish within the diaspora and beyond.

Signed

Director of Palace Communications

About Oba Abimbola Akile Balogun :
Oba Abimbola Akile Balogun, Oshiloye Ojoye I, Akile of Iga Okun-Ade. is the revered traditional ruler of the Yoruba community in Dallas, Texas. With a profound dedication to preserving and promoting Yoruba culture, Oba Balogun serves as a beacon of leadership and cultural stewardship within the diaspora community. Through his visionary leadership and unwavering commitment, Oba Balogun continues to inspire and empower individuals to embrace their cultural heritage and contribute to the collective enrichment of society.

For media inquiries or interview requests, please contact: Pushnews.com.ng 6824771300

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Africa Opinion Politics USA/Europe

PASSPORT: US BASED TRADITIONAL RULER COMMENDS INTERIOR MINISTER

PUSH NEWS 24 INTERNATIONAL : February 29th, 2024

HRM Oba Abimbola Akile Balogun Commends Minister of Interior and Nigerian Immigration Service for Introducing Contactless Passport Technology

In a recent statement, the Oba of Dallas, His Royal Majesty, (HRM) Oba Abimbola Akile Balogun has expressed commendations towards the Federal Minister of Interior, Mr Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, and the Nigerian Immigration Services for their initiative to implement contactless technology for international passport applications for diasporans. This views came ahead of the preparation for the anticipated launch of the system on March 8, 2024.

Oba Akile’s statement said, in his interaction with some stakeholders he was was able to confirm that “the introduction of contactless technology aims to streamline and enhance the passport application process for Nigerians in diaspora, making it more convenient and efficient for Nigerian citizens to access their passports easily”.

By adopting this advanced technology, applicants home and abroad will experience faster processing times and reduced physical contact during the application process, this aligns with global trends in digitalization and modernization” Oba Akile said.

The US based traditional ruler emphasized the importance of embracing innovative solutions to improve public services, especially in critical areas such as immigration and passport issuance. He lauded the efforts of the Tinubu led government, dedication of the Minister of Interior and the Nigerian Immigration Service for their commitment to enhancing the efficiency and effectiveness of passport services in the country.

While assuring Nigerians living abroad of the sincerity of the government in this regard, the Ijebu-born leader of Iga Okun-Ade Yoruba African Community assured that “the implementation of contactless technology reflects Nigeria’s commitment to leveraging digital solutions to enhance security and convenience for its citizens and visitors. The system is expected to enhance the integrity of passport issuance processes, reduce the risk of identity theft, and improve overall service delivery.”

The government’s proactive approach towards embracing technological advancements is a testament to its commitment to modernizing public services and enhancing the overall experience for citizens and visitors alike”.

Push News 24 International reports that as the March 8, 2024 launch date approaches, anticipation builds among citizens and stakeholders eager to experience the benefits of the new contactless passport application system.

With a thriving environment for racketeering, process for obtaining the Nigerian passport has turned the booklet into a hire purchase document where applicants pay official cost at point of application, connoting preliminary down payment. This is the practice nationwide. Applicants who fail to comply with this process risk delayed services characterised by uncertainty, except for Very Important Persons, VIP,  and those with direct contact with top officials of NIS who enjoy some level of waivers exempting them from any form of bargains. Despite this, a balance sum is made as gift at the end of the exercise to the facilitating official in appreciation, but at the discretion of the applicant.

Sadly, some of these NIS officials have also extended these unethical practices to foreigners and the country’s missions abroad. As a government agency providing direct services to foreigners, NIS is the face of Nigeria.  How it carries out its activities and obligations rub off on the country’s image with implications on public perception. Its conduct can be used to gauge corruption in the course of passport, visa, work permit and expatriate quota issuance. The hire purchase process is embodied in two recognised methods of application, namely: online and physical through an NIS official. In the online, applicants are required to apply through dedicated portal on the internet where payment is made and appointment date assigned for biometric capture. Fixed date for collection is not known, and applicants need not contact NIS officials prior to application.  

After releasing royal blessings for the progress and development of Nigeria, HRM Oba Abimbola Akile Balogun’s commendation underscores the significance of the introduction of contactless passport technology and highlights the collaborative efforts between the government and relevant agencies to drive positive change and innovation in the country’s immigration processes.

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Africa Nigeria Opinion USA/Europe

DIASPORA DYNAMICS: UNLEASHING THE POTENTIAL OF NIGERIAN EXPATS FOR ECONOMIC ADVANCEMENT- OBA OF DALLAS

PUSH NEWS 24 INTERNATIONAL : February 23rd, 2024

Diaspora Dynamics: Unleashing the Potential of Nigerian Expats for Economic Advancement

In an increasingly interconnected world, the role of diaspora communities in contributing to their home countries’ development cannot be overstated. Among these global citizens, Nigerian expatriates stand out for their potential to drive economic advancement back home.” these were the words of Akile of Okun-Ade, Yoruba African Kingdom in Dallas, TX, HRM Oba Abimbola Akile Balogun.

Oba Abimbola in his reaction to Push News 24 International questions on the high cost of living in Nigeria delve into the dynamics of the Nigerian diaspora and explores how their talents and resources can be harnessed for national progress.

While unveiling their potential: Nigeria boasts a vast diaspora scattered across the globe, with millions of Nigerians residing in countries such as the United States, the United Kingdom, Canada, and others. Beyond their numbers, Oba Akile said “Nigerian expatriates possess a wealth of skills, expertise, and financial resources that can be instrumental in propelling the country’s economic growth.”

The revered traditional ruler stressed that “One of the most tangible ways Nigerian expats can contribute to economic advancement is through secured investment and entrepreneurship.”

“Many members of the diaspora have established successful businesses abroad and possess the knowledge and capital to initiate ventures back home. From technology startups to agricultural initiatives, these investments have the potential to create jobs, stimulate innovation, and drive overall economic expansion.”

Concerned about the need of Knowledge Transfer and Capacity Building, His Rolyal Majesty was quoted as saying ” in addition to financial contributions, Nigerian expatriates play a crucial role in knowledge transfer and capacity building. Through mentorship programs, partnerships with local institutions, and participation in educational initiatives, diaspora members can facilitate the transfer of skills and expertise in various sectors, including healthcare, education, and technology. By nurturing talent and empowering local communities, they contribute to building a more robust and competitive workforce”.

According to Akile Diaspora Engagement Initiatives have been one of the areas where his kingdom and members of the Yoruba African Community have created a platform for recognizing the importance of diaspora engagement.

Push News 24 International reports that the Nigerian government and various organizations have launched initiatives to tap into the potential of Nigerian expatriates. These include investment forums, networking events, and policy frameworks aimed at facilitating remittances, easing business regulations, and fostering collaboration between diaspora members and local stakeholders. Such initiatives create avenues for dialogue, partnership, and collective action toward shared development goals.Challenges and Opportunities.

Oba Abimbola also painstakingly said that despite their immense potential, Nigerian expatriates face challenges in fully harnessing their contributions to economic advancement. These include bureaucratic hurdles, regulatory barriers, and concerns about political instability and security risks. Addressing these challenges requires concerted efforts from both the Nigerian government and diaspora communities to create an enabling environment for investment, entrepreneurship, and collaboration.

As Nigeria charts its path toward economic advancement and prosperity, leveraging the potential of its diaspora emerges as a strategic imperative. By tapping into the talents, resources, and networks of Nigerian expatriates, the country can unlock new opportunities for growth, innovation, and inclusive development.

Oba Akile concluded ny saying “With continued collaboration and engagement, the Nigerian diaspora stands poised to play a pivotal role in shaping the nation’s future economic landscape.”

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Nigeria Politics

IKORODU WEST COUNCIL BOSS PAYS TRIBUTE TO THE LEGACY OF LEADER ADEMEHIN

PUSH NEWS 24 INTERNATIONAL : February 10th, 2024

IKORODU WEST COUNCIL BOSS PAYS TRIBUTE TO THE LEGACY OF LEADER ADEMEHIN

In a somber communique and at the funeral service & Internment held on Friday 9th February 2024 at the Four Square Gospel Church, Ipakodo, Ikorodu, Lagos State, The executive Chairman of Ikorodu West Local Council Development Area, Hon Otunba Sulaiman Kaseem Olanrewaju has expressed heartfelt condolences on the passing of a key political leader in Ikorodu Division, an influential figure in Lagos State politics, describing Engr. Oluwasegun Ademehin (a.k.a Superman), as a towering figure in the state’s socio-political landscape, the Mayor extended sympathies to the late Ademehin family, friends, and memebers of the All Progressives Congress (APC).

Engr. Ademehin’s life, characterized by dedication to Lagos State and the advancement of shared values, was highlighted by the Council Mayor. Ademehin was lauded not only for his leadership but also for his visionary grassroot advocacy for justice, equality, and progress.

Acknowledging Supernan’s significant contributions to the socio-cultural and political space, the Hon Sulaiman emphasized his unwavering commitment to the betterment of the good people of Ikorodu West LCDA, state, and nation. Specific achievements and initiatives were mentioned, highlighting his enduring impact on improving lives and shaping the community’s future.

Engr. Ademehin’s integrity, compassion, and commitment to public service were underscored as traits that will be remembered. The Mayor portrayed him as a beacon of hope and inspiration, urging other political hopefuls to emulate his example and strive for a better tomorrow.

SKO in his closing remarks, called on residents and his political assocites and mentees to honor [Engr Ademehin’s memory by continuing his good work, the Council boss further encourage unity amongst party faithfuls in facing future challenges. The message conveyed was one of determination to uphold principles dear to late Ademehin who he continuously referred to as his leader.

The Chartered Accountant turned politician concluded with the Mayor extending deepest sympathies to all who knew and loved Engr Ademehin expressing hope that his legacy will endure as a testament to leadership, courage, and compassion.

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DIASPORA OBA SUMMIT : WE AIM TO STRENGTHEN ETHNIC BONDS – AKILE OF DALLAS

PUSH NEWS 24 INTERNATIONAL: February 7th, 2024

DIASPORA OBA SUMMIT : WE AIM TO STRENGTHEN ETHNIC BONDS – AKILE OF DALLAS

“Members drew on emotional resources including cultural affiliations, friendship and family visits, to strengthen ethnic bonds. “It was the creative ingenuity of diaspora members to establish communal and ethnic associations rooted in their own culture”. These were the words of HRM Oba Abimbola Akile Balogun, Oshiloye Ojoye 1, Akile of Okun-Ade, Yoruba African Kingdom in Dallas,Texas.

In an exclusive interview with a main stream online media, the Akile of Dallas who recently returned back to his kingdom in the United States of America after attending the annual retreat of the Council of Oba Yoruba in Diaspora (COD) which was held in Nigeria, stated that pursuing the welfare of the Yorubas in Diaspora has necessitated the need to hold this annual summit inorder to cross- fertilize ideas with stakeholders at homeland.

“Very often, diaspora communities construct identities that distinguished them from their host communities and these identities could be expressed in terms of settlement patterns, social, religious, political and economic institutions and this fits into the adventures of the Yoruba Nation worldwide” Akile said.

The concept of diaspora is used to describe a community, which has a history of migration, possess distinctive cultural practices that distinguished it from the host community and maintain cultural ties with the homeland.

When asked why the need for Obas in diaspora, the highly respected royal father said ” The word diaspora is Greek, meaning scattering.The concept of diaspora is used to describe a community, which has a history of migration, possess distinctive cultural practices that distinguished it from the host community and maintain cultural ties with the homeland, hence, in a bid to deliberately preserve such cultural practices and traditions in foreign countries, the Obaship became an acceptable phenomenon amongst its people”.

“The term Yoruba in diaspora is used here to refer to all people of Yoruba descent who settle outside the shores of the Yoruba homeland but maintain socio-cultural linkages with the homeland or who continue to maintain Yoruba identity”, Akile said.

According to Oba Abimbola the Council of Oba Yoruba in Diaspora is a network that will serve as a mechanism of managing threats of insecurity, cultural survival and preservation of the Yoruba race in foreign lands.

Akile advise Yoruba Nation that inorder to foster unity in our community, we must stick close to the traditions we all claim to be a part of.

“No longer will our Diaspora based culture and customs hold up, if we continue
to stand for using European culture as a lens from which to view African culture. If Eledumare has declared it to be of one’s destiny to be given an exalted position, he/she must be deeply steeped in African culture” Oba Abimbola stressed.

Push News 24 International reports that the Council of Oba Yoruba in Diaspora, is an association of Yoruba traditional rulers who concerns themselves with the welfare of their members and patrons.

From time immemorial, we have Yorubas spreads across the globe dwelling happily with their accepted traditional leaders (Obas).

Aside homeland, We have Yorubas in Benin Republic, Togo, Ghana, Cote D, Liberia, Burkina Faso, Mali, Gambia, Brazil, Cuba, Trinidad and Tobago etc.

With the onset of the Atlantic slave trade, Yoruba people from Nigeria and Benin were forcibly transported to America as slaves. Their religion expanded across many borders — to Trinidad, Cuba, Saint Lucia, Benin, Togo, Brazil, Guyana, Haiti, Jamaica, to name a few.

the Oriade of Georgia, United States, Oba Bernard Shola Akinrimisi; the traditional ruler of Yoruba in the Republic of Ireland, Oba Saheed Ibrahim Adufe, and the traditional ruler of Yoruba in Liberia, Oba Omobolaji Ogunkoya.

The 2024 annual summit of the Council of Obas-in-Council had in attendance several royal fathers to include Oba Abimbola Akile Balogun, Oshiloye Ojoye 1, Akile of Dallas, Oriade of Georgia, Oba Bernard Shola Akinrimisi; the traditional ruler of Yoruba in Liberia, Oba Omobolaji Ogunkoya, Oodua Gbadewolu I and the traditional ruler of Yoruba in the Republic of Ireland, Oba Saheed Ibrahim Adufe, the Omole of Miami, Florida, Oba Adeleke Adesina, Ori-Ade of Georgia, Oba Akinrimisi Bernard, Oba Germany, Oba Sulaiman Lawal, Oba Adeyinka Daso (Netherlands), Adedayo Yaya Gawa (Cote d’Voire), Oba Aderonmu Sadiq (France), Oba Moshood K.B. Abolade (Gambia), Oba Aderabarin Babajide (Mexico) amongst others.

HRM Alase Oba Adejuyigbe E.A.O Adefunmi, Oloyotunji of Oyotunji Village USA, Paramount Ruler of North American and the Diasporas was however absent.

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Nigeria Security USA/Europe

PROMISING NIGERIAN ARTIST SHOT DEAD IN THE US

PUSH NEWS 24 INTERNATIONAL : January 9th, 2024

The fatal shooting of rapper Half Ounce has ignited a familiar conversation about gun violence, rap culture and whether there’s a responsibility for record labels to protect their artists.

As of January 9, 2024, Osazuwa Agbonayinma, who uses the stage name Zuwa, has been shot and killed in the United States. Agbonayinma is an American-based Nigerian singer and member of the singing duo Roze, along with Eghosa Rodney Agbonayinma, also known as Row.

The report said the singer’s father and former Nigerian lawmaker Ehiozuwa Agbonayinma confirmed the tragic news to Channels TV Entertainment News that his son who also had a master’s degree in Architecture was killed by a shot in the back of the head.

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Nigeria Politics

WHY I DUMPED PETER OBI – OKUPE, LABOUR PARTY DG

PUSH NEWS 24 INTERNATIONAL: JANUARY 7TH, 2024

Doyin Okupe, a former director general of the Peter Obi 2023 Presidential Campaign Organisation, has resigned from the party, citing ideological differences.

Mr Okupe announced his resignation from the party in a letter addressed to the National Chairman of the Labour Party (LP), Julius Abure.

In the letter, dated 8 January, Mr Okupe said the party was only used as a “special purpose vehicle” to actualise the presidential ambition of Mr Obi during the last presidential election.

Mr Okupe, who claimed to be on the centre-right of the ideological spectrum, said the lefty leaning of the LP does not conform with his own ideological stance.

“I have been a rightist and a Liberal Democrat all my entire life. It is therefore this ideological conflict that makes me seek an exit so that I may continue my political activities with liberalism, sincerity and freedom,” he said.

Messrs Okupe and Obi left the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) for the LP shortly before the presidential primaries.

Mr Obi was given the presidential ticket of the LP. Mr Okupe served as the campaign DG and temporary running mate until the selection of the eventual running mate, Ahmed Datti.

In December 2022, Mr Okupe, a former presidential spokesperson, resigned as the campaign DG following his conviction in a money laundering case.

In a sitting of the Federal High Court in Abuja, Ijeoma Ojukwu, the presiding judge, sentenced Mr Okupe to two years imprisonment after he was found guilty of 26 out of a 59-count charge preferred against him by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC).

However, he was given the option to pay a N500,000 fine on each of the counts — totalling N13 million. He subsequently announced his resignation as the campaign DG.

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Nigeria Politics

AMUWO COUNCIL BOSS FIRES SPECIAL ADVISER OVER NEGLIGENCE OF DUTIES

PUSH NEWS 24 INTERNATIONAL : January 9th, 2024

AMUWO COUNCIL BOSS FIRES SPECIAL ADVISER OVER NEGLIGENCE OF DUTIES

In a bid to get rid of government officials who are not meeting up to their terms of references and job descriptions, the Amuwo Odofin Local Government boss, Engr. Valentine Buraimoh has swung the big-stick by suspending his Special Adviser on Tourism, Hon. Akinseye Adewale Ipinlaye.

Sei Ipinlaye’s as he is fondly called fate was sealed after the Council Chief through the Council Manager, Bakare O. O. made a release to the effect ref. AOLG/CM/EXE/Vol.1/01 and dated 5th December, 2023, a copy made available to Push News 24 International.

Valentine, in his letter, accused Engr. Sei for abandoning his duties despite still enjoying all the largesse accruable to his Office as a Special Adviser.

The offenses, according to the Executive Chairman, represents a delineation of public trust and service to the good people of Amuwo Odofin and are considered serious misconduct and liable to punishment.

The suspension letter also stated that pending when further action is decided, the SA’s benefits, and other pay-outs are suspended with immediate effect.

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Africa Nigeria Politics

“IT’S VICTIMIZATION, YOU DID NOT FOLLOW DUE PROCESS” – SEI FIRES BACK AT ENGR. VALENTINE

PUSH NEWS 24 INTERNATIONAL : January 7th, 2024

“IT’S VICTIMIZATION, YOU DID NOT FOLLOW DUE PROCESS” – SEI FIRES BACK AT ENGR. VALENTINE

“It’s against best practices as well as labour standards to lay-off public officials without justifiable reasons, these were the underlining thoughts of the erstwhile suspended Special Adviser on Tourism in Amuwo Odofin Local Council, Hon Sei Ipinlaye’s response to Executive Chairman of Amuwo Odofin LGA, Engr. Valentine Buraimoh.

The former, Secretary to Amuwo Odofin LGA, in his four-page long response, has declined accepting his purported suspension letter signed by the Council Manager, Bakare O.O. over what he called failure to follow due process as contained and provided in the Lagos State Guidelines on Administrative Procedures for Local Government.

Sei stressed that the CM has no authority to sign such a document, neither does the Executive Committee have powers to prescribe any punishment to such effect, he believed the Council Boss has been misled by those who should know better.

Hon Sei further stated that he is been victimized as in the case of others by Mr Chairman who also never deemed it fit to give him a fair hearing.

Armed with facts, Sei accused the Executive Chairman of working against the spirit of the Lagos State Guidelines on Administrative Procedures for Local Government since his asumption to office as Council Boss.

Not relaxing on his oars, Hon Sei has sent a SOS to the Lagos State Governmen and other stakeholders for necessary redress.

Push News 24 International reports that It’s without a doubt that an employer and employee relationship is governed by certain laws in Nigeria such as the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria,1999, with similar guidelines at the State and local government levels.

At the global level, termination of employment at will and without reason is no longer fashionable or acceptable.

We must bear in mind that no nation can be an island to herself and any nation that seeks to do so will be doing so at her own peril.

Therefore, the need to ensure that the Nigerian labour jurisprudence is in tandem with what is obtainable at the international scene found reflection in our grassroot politicking in Nigeria.

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