Men of the State Intelligence Bureau of the Nigeria Police have extended invitation to fiery Lagos preacher, Pastor Tunde Bakare, over what police sources see as a controversial sermon against President Goodluck Jonathan.
The invitation signed by one Usman Ayuba (a chief superintendent of police) is sequel to a sermon which he (Pastor Bakare) delivered in his church wherein he accused President Jonathan of deliberately trying to bankrupt the country.
Publicity secretary of the Save Nigeria Group, Mr. Yinka Odumakin, who confirmed the development in a chat on telephone, however, said Bakare, the leader of the group, was aware of the summon.
Bakare, the running mate to the presidential candidate of the Congress for Progressive Change (CPC), Maj.-Gen. Muhammadu Buhari, in the last general election was billed to honour the invitation but had left the country on Wednesday.
"We saw an invitation by the police asking Pastor Bakare to honour an invitation regarding a sermon that he delivered sometime ago, but, as I am talking to you now, he is out of the country," Odumakin said.
Though, it was speculated that security agents might prevent him from making the journey, which many believe was to the United States of America, he made without it hindrance.
Excerpt Of Pastor Bakare's Sermon "We have vampires whose assignment is to kill Nigeria and to make sure that Nigeria does not exist thereafter.
Suddenly Nigeria that was that cheered now has clueless, shoeless people take over the administration of Nigeria.
"And the one word I have for Nigerians is, don't despair. Jonathan is dancing to the drumbeat of destiny. His destiny is to bankrupt Nigeria. All men of goodwill must rise up to stop him. And stop him we will do. And I said stop him we will do. Don't make mistake about what you are hearing from me today, it is clear in my heart beyond any iota of doubt that Jonathan's destiny is to bankrupt Nigeria, balkanize Nigeria.
And there are forces behind him totally committed and determined to do so.
Oil vultures with petrol dollars and all kinds of political "tinkers" not thinkers are tinkering with the destiny of our nation with their palace prophets telling them peace when there is no peace.
I want to tell you that it does not matter what it takes, we will stop you. We will stop you dead in your tracks. You will not accomplish your assignment. You will not finish your
assignment. Nigeria will vomit you in the name of Jesus Christ. Turn your Bible with me to the Book of Chronicles. Tell it on the mountain top that this man is dancing the drumbeat of destiny. His destiny is to bankrupt this nation and balkanize it and he has the full support of his corporate cowboys and oil vultures as well as their palace
prophets who are telling them peace when there is no peace because I don't understand how a nation will be going through calamity upon calamity and those who should be concerned will only be prancing around. I don't understand it. I don't understand how
you can serve your nation and serve bomb blast inside a church in Jos for breakfast.
And before they could recover from that anguish you serve them air crash for lunch. And before they could gain their moment of sanity, you serve them with petro dollar bribe and now you vaunt about it telling us nothing can happen because you are in charge, the land will vomit you as the Lord lives in the name of Jesus Christ and every collaborator will not go unpunished. Your year of punishment has come. Tell it on the mountain top that there are still men of goodwill who will stop you dead in your tracks.
I am not talking about deluded ambitious politicians who now think of 2015 when the nation is in a mess in 2012. We can do all the tinkering, if we don't rise up now there will not be 2015."
Friday, 29 June 2012
Tom Cruise and Katie Holmes are divorcing!
After five years of marriage, Tom Cruise and Katie Holmes are getting a divorce, and this is an exclusive information.
"This is a personal and private matter for Katie and her family," says Holmes's attorney Jonathan Wolfe.
"Katie's primary concern remains, as it always has been, her daughter's best interest."
The Rock of Ages star, 49, wed actress Holmes, 33, in an Italian castle in November 2006. They have daughter Suri, 6.
This was Holmes's first marriage and the third for Cruise, who previously was married to the actresses Nicole Kidman, with whom he has two children, and Mimi Rogers.
Stick close to kayceeweezy!
"This is a personal and private matter for Katie and her family," says Holmes's attorney Jonathan Wolfe.
"Katie's primary concern remains, as it always has been, her daughter's best interest."
The Rock of Ages star, 49, wed actress Holmes, 33, in an Italian castle in November 2006. They have daughter Suri, 6.
This was Holmes's first marriage and the third for Cruise, who previously was married to the actresses Nicole Kidman, with whom he has two children, and Mimi Rogers.
Stick close to kayceeweezy!
Thursday, 28 June 2012
Two-time champion Nadal suffers shock five-set defeat to Rosol
Unsung Czech Lukas Rosol pulled off one of the biggest Wimbledon shocks in living memory by dumping two-time champion Rafael Nadal out at the second-round stage on Thursday.When the 26-year-old from Brno lost the first set on a tie-break, it appeared he was on his way to becoming the latest in a long line of low-ranked players to be swept aside by one of the game's leading names early in a grand slam tournament.But the right-hander stumbled across the correct formula to come back against the 11-time grand slam winner and send him packing 6-7 (11/9) 6-4 6-4 2-6 6-4 - taking the decider under the Centre Court roof.A 45-minute delay - initially scheduled to be just a half-hour break - preceded the fifth set, with officials sending the players back to the locker rooms to allow for the roof to be closed under fading light. Nadal was unhappy when told. He had also been frustrated early in the third set when he complained to the umpire, seemingly angry about Rosol bouncing on the spot while preparing to serve. While Rosol has now reached the third round of one of the four main tournaments for just the second time in his largely nomadic career, it is the earliest that Nadal has been knocked out of a grand slam since his second-round defeat to Gilles Muller at Wimbledon seven years ago.Rosol said: 'It is a miracle for me - I never expected this.'There are so many emotions. He is a superstar but I played unbelievable today. I hope I can play one more match like this.'I am happy and congratulations to Rafa. He played a good match but I was better.'Nadal's exit also means that he no longer sits in Andy Murray's half of the draw. The British number one has fallen foul of the Spaniard at the semi-final stage in each of the last two years, but should his progress continue, he no longer has to worry about him.For whatever reason, Nadal from the off did not look like the man who won a record seventh French Open just 18 days ago.Having broken serve in the fifth game, he immediately conceded his own in the next and had to stave off set point at 6-5 and also in a tie-break which he eventually won 11-9.Rosol, whose third-round appearance at the French Open last year was his career best, quickly put the disappointment behind him to break at the start of the second set and then held out to take it, before stealing Nadal's serve in the third game of the next.It was after that disappointment that Nadal started his animated chat with the umpire and, with his focus clearly absent, he fell two sets to one behind, chuntering about something being "not fair".The prospect of an embarrassing loss clearly registered with him though, and he broke twice in succession to take the fourth set in a manner that he had been expected to perform throughout.But that was not the end of the drama, with both players then being told to leave the court for 30 minutes while the roof was closed to allow for the failing light. Back in form at that stage, Nadal was unhappy and again made his feelings known before exiting the arena.The delay eventually reached close to 45 minutes and when the players resumed, Nadal lost serve in the opening game when he netted a normally regulation forehand.But, with Rosol back on song with ball in hand and casually hitting winners at will, a break back was not forthcoming and the underdog eased home, landing three aces in the final game and collapsing to the ground in celebration.
El-Rufai Claims Christians Are Behind Boko Haram In A Plot To Destabilize The North
Is Boko Haram real or the metaphor of an agenda against a section of the country? – asks Aminu Sarki…..
Agenda against the North, Hausa/Fulani and IslamEvidence:So, without doubt there is Boko Haram which aims to establish, according to them, a just social system of governance as they understand it, which path to its establishment is strewn with violence and there is a “Boko Haram” which uses the violence of the authentic sect as a cover for its own violence aimed at psychological warfare, the need to maintain the status quo of northern division and to, through massive propaganda, cast a select set of northern leaders or politicians as sponsors of terrorism “because they have lost political power.” Any objective observer couldn’t have missed how through massive propaganda certain northern politicians are being made to look like the sponsors of the terror group because of their insistence on President Jonathan to honour the zoning agreement of his party, the P.D.P., cleverly avoiding the fact that the terror group’s existence preceded the zoning debate. In fact, this deliberate misinformation and miseducation will benefit more those who want to perpetuate the ethno-religious division in the north as these select northern leaders are cast in the mould of the Hausa/Fulani enemies of Christianity bent on enslaving or exterminating the northern minority tribes to engender a Hausa/Fulani hegemony or oligarchy. This latter “Boko Haram” could possibly be a mix of some Christian and Muslim psychopaths who can do any work for money in the same fashion as there are gangs of armed robbers with memberships cutting across religious and ethnic lines.Evidences of my claim are:
(1.) The reported arrest of the suspects that sprayed bullets on the Gombe Deeper Life Church worshippers of which the suspects arrested were alleged to be Igbos. Keen observers would remember that “Boko Haram” claimed responsibility for that attack. Noteworthy also is the fact that the arrested suspects were moved from Gombe to Abuja and since then nothing has been heard about them.
(2.) Shortly after the Gombe Deeper Life Church massacre, following quickly also after the Gombe township bombing fiesta two men, named Hassan Ojudu and Samaila Yakubu, all of them Christians, were arrested in the same Gombe town with a vehicle loaded with explosive devices and ammunitions. If they were part of those who did the bombing fiesta Christians should note that “Boko Haram” also claimed responsibility, and if they were not a part of the bombing fiesta be assured that if they had not been arrested and they succeeded in using their own merchandise “Boko Haram” would have claimed responsibility. Curiously, since they were moved to Abuja nothing has been heard about them.
(3.) If the eight COCIN church members arrested with explosive devices at the Miya-Barkatai branch of the church in Bauchi State had succeeded in detonating what they were arrested with, be assured “Boko Haram” would have claimed responsibility and since the village is near Jos, Plateau State some brainwashed youths with hearts filled with hate would begin to pounce on any available Hausa/Fulani on sight for revenge.
(4.) If Miss Lydia Joseph had succeeded in burning down the St. John Catholic church in Bauchi city be assured it would have been attributed to Boko Haram or to Muslims.
(5.) If Emmanuel King, the guy who disguised as a Muslim wearing a turban and kaftan, had succeeded in bombing down the Redeemed Christian Church of God in Yenagoa the Bayelsa capital “Boko Haram” would have claimed responsibility, and the intended desire for reprisal would have further brought the real desire, which is polarization. It doesn’t matter whether the guy is sane or insane as he was later touted to be. Also, possibly in further pursuit of this polarization agenda some persons were reported to have burnt down a worship centre of the Church of God Mission International in Port Harcourt, the Rivers State capital as reported by the LEADERSHIP newspaper of Sunday, January 15, 2012 on page 9. Who did it may not be known now, but there is the possibility it could have been meant to trigger some kind of attacks against some undesirable elements with the added benefit of maintaining a national division.
(6.) If Madam Ruth had succeeded in bombing down the ECWA church in the Kalarin area of Kaltungo in Gombe State verily, verily I say unto thee “Boko Haram” would have claimed responsibility notwithstanding whether she was hypnotized or not as some may want to claim.
(7.) After the COCIN church headquarters bombing in Jos defence authorities issued a statement disclaiming the man lynched while trying to escape from the vicinity as not a soldier, whereas the man was wearing military uniform and was later identified as a member of the church. To lend credence to this possibility the Special Task Force (STF) on security in Jos on Sunday, March 25, 2012 paraded one Mr. Alex Danladi who was caught wearing army camouflage t-shirt, cap and boot while parading himself as a soldier. He was paraded alongside one Mr. Dung Bulus, a suspected fabricator of guns and some others whom the authorities said are students of the University of Jos. Also on Tuesday, March 27, 2012 the 2 Brigade, Nigeria Army, Bori Camp, Port Harcourt paraded one Abba Ibrahim allegedly caught with military uniforms and other gear including weeds suspected to be cannabis. He was said to be a dismissed military personnel and hails from Billiri, a predominantly Christian town in Gombe State and that at the time of his arrest he was standing trial for another case of impersonation (see THE NATION newspaper of Wednesday, March 28, 2012 page 57). Now, for a fee wouldn’t this Alex Danladi, donning his military gear, ask some persons manning some church entrance to open the gates and some paid murderers would drive in and detonate their bomb laden car? Or wouldn’t this Abba Ibrahim do the same for money?
(8.) On January 11, 2012 two Nigerians named, Sunday Eze from Anambra State and Samuel Taiwo from Ogun State and some three Ghanaians were arrested in Ghana with some heavy weaponry carefully concealed in a truck, which was to be brought to Nigeria. Opposing bail for the suspects in court on Tuesday, March 27, 2012 the Office of the Attorney-General of the Republic of Ghana said “the arms and ammunitions seized on transit to Nigeria were to be used to fuel terrorists’ activities in the country.” See the DAILY TRUST newspaper of Wednesday, March 28, 2012 page 3. These Nigerian suspects are from southern Nigeria and bear Christian names. So, on whose behalf were they bringing in those arms of which the Ghanaian authorities said were to be used for terrorism in Nigeria? And which terror group do they belong to?
(9.) On Tuesday, April 10, 2012 a 38 yea- old man named Monday Davou was arrested while planting a timed Improvised Explosive Device (IED) or time bomb, if you like, at the Makera weekly market in Riyom Local Government Area, Plateau State. This was with intent to commit mass murder, for that is what planting a bomb in a market will do. Now if Monday Davou’s bomb had exploded be sure that a “Boko Haram” spokesperson will have claimed responsibility and even before the statement of claim comes Monday Davou’s kinsmen would have launched “reprisal attacks” on any person that looked like Hausa/Fulani and their properties, and would have probably roasted some of the Hausa/Fulanis and eaten them like they did sometime in 2011.
(10.) The DAILY SUN newspaper of Monday, February 20, 2012 on page 12 reported the arrest in Akure, Ondo State of a gang of five armed robbers led by one Evangelist Wale Adelu, “an evangelist of one of the old generation churches, which has branches in the state capital…..and they were said to be meeting in his church before they proceeded on any robbery operation.” Wouldn’t this “evangelist” and his gang agree to bomb churches for a good fee?
(11.) Similarly, the SATURDAY SUN newspaper of Saturday, March 10, 2012 on page 10 reported that 11 cartons of explosives imported from South Africa and “carefully packaged to beat security checks” were intercepted by the Nigerian Customs Service (NCS) at the Murtala Muhammed International Airport, Lagos. The consignments were said to be for “Miero Marble Granite and Stones Limited in Kaduna State, with one Mr. Michael Awara Ernest as the representative to collect the explosives at the cargo terminal.” The Customs Area Controller in charge of the airport, Mr. Charles EporweiEdike while parading the suspect said “If these items were released to him, they could have been used to cause mayhem; we are now going to hand him and the items over to the police for further investigations.” Well, since the handover to the police nothing has been heard about it again. And let the Muslims bearing Michael Awara Ernest step forward to the nearest police post for proper identification and documentation, please.
(12.) The THISDAY newspaper of Friday, January 13, 2012 on page 6 culled a news report from the BBC in which a British-based arms dealer, Gary Hyde was being prosecuted in a London court for unlawfully arranging the shipment of about 80, 000 guns and 32 million rounds of ammunition from China to Nigeria in 2007. But, the big question is, to whom did he make his shipment? To Muslim radicals or to some church going criminals?
(13.) On Sunday, February 19, 2012 four persons were arrested while trying to detonate explosives at the St. Theresa’s Catholic Parish, High-level in Makurdi the Benue State capital. The LEADERSHIP newspaper of Wednesday, February 22, 2012 on page 10 reported the Police Public Relations Officer (PPRO) of the state’s command, Mr. Alaribe Ejike as saying those four persons arrested were Christians and not Boko Haram members as speculated by members of the public. He said “We are still trying to find out certain things about them, but we have not confirmed whether they are Boko Haram members. It remains one thing, and as soon as we find out, we shall inform you accordingly.” Up till now nothing has been heard from the police. But, poor Alaribe Ejike may not have known that there is a “Boko Haram” with members possibly cutting across religious lines impersonating Boko Haram for some people’s strategic interests.These few examples are possible involvements of Christians in betraying the church and Christians and the nation.
Do you believe him? Send your comments and let us know.
Germany 1 Italy 2: Magic Mario makes his mark as Azzurri extend tournament hoodoo
Mario Balotelli wrote another remarkable chapter in his amazing career as he fired Italy into the Euro 2012 final with a two-goal salvo against Germany in Warsaw.The Manchester City man rose to power home Antonio Cassano's 20th-minute cross to put the underdogs in front.Then he smashed an unstoppable shot past Manuel Neuer to double Italy's lead and take him joint-top of the Golden Boot standings.Mesut Ozil's last-minute penalty was not enough to prevent Germany's suffering their first defeat in a competitive game since their World Cup semi-final loss to Spain two years ago.Indeed, it was their third semi-final loss in their past four tournaments, one of which, in the 2006 World Cup, came against tonight's opponents, who have still never lost to Germany in a competitive game, and now face Spain in Kiev on Sunday.Germany had started the match as favourites, mainly thanks to their world record run of 15 successive victories.
Putin tells Russia to be ready for economic crisis
President Vladimir Putin on Thursday ordered his government to put aside billions of dollars in next year’s budget to protect the country’s vulnerable economy in case of a new economic crisis.Putin, who has in recent months faced unprecedented street protests against his rule, said Russia’s main priority was to ensure economic stability despite its dangerous dependence on energy exports.“We must take into account any scenarios for the world and Russian economies and have the instruments and possibilities to react,” he told the government and members of parliament in an unusually stark warning of danger.“Therefore I ask you to put into the coming year’s budget enough reserves to realise anti-crisis measures, if, of course, the need arises,” he said in comments published on the Kremlin website.Putin did not give figures but Finance Minister Anton Siluanov said the government would already in 2012 have the right to spend 200 billion rubles ($6 billion) on anti-crisis measures.Siluanov had told Financial Times earlier this month that Russia was ready to build up a chest of $40 billion in the next years to combat the effects of an economic crisis as Moscow nervously eyes developments in the eurozone.Putin admitted that the government’s high-cost programme of improving infrastructure in Russia, modernising social services and reforming the military now needed to be implemented in “complicated conditions”.“The world economy is going through a period of turbulence and we need to be ready for any crisis,” he told the meeting on Russia’s budget policy to 2015.“Our main task is to preserve stability of the macroeconomy and the budget. It’s clear that the main risk is the high dependency on the fluctuations on global energy markets.”Economic Development Minister Andrei Belousov said that in the first quarter this year Russia enjoyed growth of 4.9 percent and growth was seen to be 4.0 percent in the second.But he added that such rates were nowhere near high enough to realise the government’s target of raising labour productivity one-and-a-half times by 2018 and financing its modernisation campaign.“For this we need to have growth of five percent and it’s better to approach six percent,” Belousov said.
Turkey's army gathers on Syria border
Bashar al-Assad was left facing the biggest test of the 15-month uprising against his rule on Thursday night as the Turkish army began gathering on the Syrian border and rebels struck again at the heart of Damascus.In a major escalation of tensions between the two former allies, Turkey sent anti-aircraft guns and trucks carrying multiple-rocket launchers to reinforce its southern border following Syria's 'hostile' shooting down of a Turkish fighter jet.Meanwhile, huge twin bomb blasts struck the Syrian capital, near the Palace of Justice - the third major attack on a city which had, until recent days, escaped the worst of the anti-regime violence.Tomorrow (Saturday), Turkey will join its western allies in a UN-sponsored conference in Geneva to discuss Mr Assad's future. Britain and other western countries are increasingly convinced that Russia can finally be persuaded to support them in pushing for the Syrian president to step down.Activists said that at least another 69 people, including 38 civilians, were killed yesterday, but the most dramatic incident came in Damascus, when two magnetic bombs exploded in judges' cars outside the city's main court complex. Reports said a third device was defused.Although only three people were injured, the bombing had greater symbolic importance as a sign of the ability of rebels - assuming they were responsible - to hit the heart of the Assad regime. State television showed a black plume of smoke and reporters on the scene described the mangled wreckage of cars.As well as the internal threat, the Syrian president is now facing significant pressure from Turkey, once an ally but which is now one of his severest critics.Yesterday, Turkey sent missile batteries, tanks and troops to the border as a "security corridor" after Syria shot down a Turkish warplane which briefly intruded into its air-space last Friday. About 30 military vehicles had accompanied by a truck towing missile batteries from a base in the southeastern province of Hatay.Turkey's change of heart on Mr Assad has been dramatic. The two countries nearly came to war in the 1980s and 1990s, but that was when Turkey, a staunch Nato ally, was developing close ties including a military and strategic alliance with Israel.When the moderate Islamist party of the prime minister, Recep Tayyip Erdogan, came to power, he sought to rebalance relations with neighbours including Syria and Iran. That all changed with the violence of Mr Assad's reaction to protests against his rule.Along the border on Thursday, there was a high police presence and civilian vehicles were being kept away. The many Syrian activists and rebels who have sought sanctuary on the Turkish side were excited at the possibility that the outside intervention on the opposition's behalf they had long sought might soon be on its way."We have been asking the Turkish to do this for a long long time," said Dr Munzer Yazji, who heads a team of medical staff in the town of Hatay working to supply networks of secret field hospitals inside Syria, some in the border areas."Our hospitals are being targeted by shelling, or doctors are being killed. Before the Syrian soldiers could come within metres of the border. Now we wish very much that this will provide some protection."Fighters with the rebel Free Syrian Army said they believed the Turkish troops were making the first preparations for the establishment of a buffer region in northern Syria, of which an air exclusion zone would most likely be part."We are told that any Syrian army that comes within 5km of the Turkish border will be hit," said Ahmed, a coordinator, claiming to have inside information.Large areas inside northern Syria are now in opposition hands. Mr Assad's troops still have the benefit of overwhelming firepower, but the opposition has begun receiving supplies of light arms from backers in Qatar and Saudi Arabia, and is able to regain territory lost in heavy assaults.Although it has nothing like the territorial control exercised by the rebels in eastern Libya in the civil war there last year, they felt secure enough to give a guided tour earlier this week to Burhan Ghalioun, until recently the leader of the opposition Syrian National Council.They are also increasingly able to repel assaults. According to activists, a full-scale tank assault on the major city of Deir Al-Zour, near the border with Iraq, was brought to a halt yesterday by a rebel counter-attack. It had been preceded by a week of shelling and helicopter attacks, in which scores of people died.There was also heavy fighting in the town of Douma, on the northern outskirts of Damascus.On Wednesday, rebels attacked the headquarters of a pro-regime satellite television station, killing seven people, while the day before, there was a major gun-battle on the city's previously quiet western outskirts.The Syrian Observatory for Human Rights, a London-based activist group which collates casualty figures, said that 4,700 people had been killed in the country since April 12, when a UN-sponsored ceasefire was called.
How N422bn was lost to Fuel Subsidy Fraud
The Federal Government committee set up to verify 2011 fuel subsidy payments to oil marketers and importers has uncovered 17 infringements committed by the companies, which have cost the nation N422,542,937,668.59 in overpayments, THISDAY has learnt.
The committee, headed by the Managing Director/Chief Executive Officer of Access Bank Plc, Mr. Aigboje Aig-Imoukhuede, with Sola David-Borha, Managing Director, StanbicIBTC Plc as secretary, was set up by the Federal Ministry of Finance last May to undertake a forensic audit and verify claims by oil marketers and the Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation, and the payments made to them by the ministry.
The report, which was submitted on Tuesday to the presidency and finance ministry, a copy of which was obtained by THISDAY reporters from sources in the presidency last night, showed that there are 17 broad categories of infringements used to defraud the Federal Government.
In fulfilling its assignment, the committee used a team of Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) examiners of the Banking Supervision and Trade Exchange Department, experienced bank auditors selected by the Chairman, Committee of Chief Inspectors of Banks and chief compliance officers of banks to review the subsidy payments made to the oil marketers, and went on to recommend that the N422 billion be refunded to the Federal Government and the companies investigated "provided that the parties involved in the transaction are unable to provide evidence contrary to the committee's findings."
The 17 infringements are: No evidence of sales proceeds in the banks – N157,549,854,482.55, meaning that the marketers did not have evidence of sales proceeds based on banks' available records at the date of verification;•Subsidy payments without the signatures of external auditors and independent inspectors on shore tank certificates – N121,897,757,962.56;•Subsidy payments for which mother vessels were not found in locations claimed at the time of transshipment – N21,361,071,313.24;•Subsidy payments for which there were no shipping documents or evidence of payment for the products in foreign exchange – N20,463,525,859.79; and•$10 additional margin given to traders from November 2010 to 2011 with approval of the Federal Government contrary to the Petroleum Support Fund (PSF) guidelines.Others include specially mentioned transactions with various infractions – N15,944,918,661.23;•Use of 1 per cent as bank spread instead of the maximum 50 kobo approved by the CBN in computation of foreign exchange rates used for subsidy payments – N14,021,193,230.89;•Subsidy payments for which the mother vessels could not be traced – N12,942,254,466.24;•Transactions disclaimed by banks – N12,154,918,932.18;•Subsidy payments without proof of existence of the mother vessel bill of lading or daughter vessel bill of lading – N11,762,998,358.89; and•Subsidy payments for which mother vessels were no longer operational at the time of transshipment – N8,138,502,416.70.
Also included in the report are infringements on subsidy payments for which there was no copy of the bill of lading for ship-to-ship transfer – N4,634,317,239.53;•Payment of subsidy claims with no mother vessel bill of lading in the file – N1,938,927,804.98;•Subsidy payments for which mother vessels were located in the Far East (China) and in the South Pacific when transshipment took place off the coast of Cotonou – N1,713,787,473.21;•Differences between subsidies advised by PPPRA and subsequent verification by external auditors – N747,534,804.00•N20 million re-engagement fees not charged for non-performance by marketers – N200,000,000•Difference between the volume on the shore tank certificates and the volume used for the subsidy payment – N33,383,300.79.
Following the widespread protests that followed the removal of subsidy on petrol and its subsequent partial reinstatement last January, there were claims for a thorough investigation of the subsidy regime. This prompted the Federal Government to set up the committee of technocrats, apart from the National Assembly's committee, which presidency sources said, "was unduly politicised and plagued by high drama."
The Federal Government committee was made up of Aig-Imoukhuede (chairman); Director General, Budget Office of the Federation, Dr. Bright Okogu; Dr. Director General, Debt Management Office, Dr. Abraham Nwankwo; Accountant General of the Federation, Mr. Jonah Otunla; and Executive Secretary, Petroleum Products Pricing and Regulatory Agency (PPPRA), Mr. Reginald Stanley.
Other members included former Group Executive Director, Finance and Accounts, Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation (NNPC), Mr. Michael Akorodare; Deputy Director, CBN, Mrs. Onyinye Ahuchogu; Mrs. David-Borha; National Secretary, Independent Petroleum Marketers Association of Nigeria (IPMAN), Mr. Mike Osatuyi; and Executive Secretary, Major Marketers Association of Nigeria (MOMAN), Mr. Obafemi Olawore.
thisday.ng
Nigeria's President Goodluck Jonathan Speech at the Customs Cooperation Council/World Customs Organization in Brussels, Belgium
Having served in the Customs Service in the early years of my life, I consider my presence with you, today, as some form of home-coming.
I wish, therefore, to thank the Secretary General of the WCO, Mr. Kunio Mikuruya and members of the Secretariat for inviting me; and providing me the platform to share with you Nigeria’s perspectives on how best customs administrations can positively support and contribute to the realisation of the economic growth and development objectives of countries.
Chairperson, Distinguished Delegates,
When the founding fathers of this organisation came together here on the 15th of December 1950, to sign the Convention establishing the then Customs Cooperation Council (CCC), they had envisaged high-level cooperation and collaboration in Customs matters across national and international barriers. Sixty years on, it is gratifying to note that the WCO has succeeded in keeping that vision alive.
With a membership of 177 Customs Administrations, it is easily understandable why the Council is today regarded as the Voice of the Global Customs Community. The Chairperson, the Secretary-General and his team here in Brussels, as well as all Customs Administrations and other members of the WCO deserve our very warm congratulations on this landmark 60th Anniversary celebration.
However, as we celebrate the remarkable achievements that you have recorded over the years, I consider it most apposite that I focus my address on the changing role of customs in the new world economy that is being driven by increasing trends of liberalisation and globalisation. This challenge is further complicated by the fact that the responsibilities of customs administrations vary from country to country; and the fact that they are often subject to regular review and modification to ensure their continuing relevance in our constantly changing global economic environment.
The role of customs administrations has undergone significant transformation since the early 1990s; gradually, but steadily evolving from trade transactions management for revenue purposes on the one hand, to trade facilitation, protection of society, and the security of international trade supply chains on the other. This, no doubt, is a reflection of not only the changing environment in which customs authorities operate, but also the corresponding changes in the priorities of governments.
Consequently, the greatest challenge at the national level has been how best to successfully design and implement those reform and modernisation initiatives that would positively contribute to the achievement of the desired economic growth and development objectives.
Similarly, there are also challenges arising from the responses by the World Trade Organisation (WTO), the WCO and other international organisations and bodies, in the continuing search and the development of those global standards that recognise the changing role of customs administration, including the nature of border management.
Chairperson, Distinguished Delegates,
As you are all aware, the growing wave of trade liberalisation and regional integration arrangements, particularly in developing countries, including Nigeria, has clearly changed the tenor and character of the trade and tariff policies of these governments.
This development has also had a significant impact on customs administrations due to the direct linkages between trade policy reform and customs administration, especially with respect to the role of customs in trade policy formulation and the impact of trade policy changes on customs administrations. In the first instance, critical information that is usually essential for the planning and designing of reforms by governments resides in the customs administrations.
In addition, given the role of customs administrations in trade facilitation, they have always remained critical in the ability of governments to maximise the benefits from reforms, including enhancing and deepening trade integration between members of any regional trading arrangement. Under this circumstance, there is the possibility that customs administrations may constitute an obstacle to the success of trade policy reforms, if there is resistance to the necessary modernisation that should result from changes in the policies and priorities of governments.
On the influence that trade policy reforms have on the tasks being performed by customs administrations, the real challenge remains the capacity of Customs to review its own policies, strategise and adapt to the new thrust in government policy, particularly through the redeployment of resources to fulfill the new emerging functions. These include such areas as strengthening the valuation system; reduction in physical inspections; risk profiling and greater reliance on post-clearance audits; rules of origin; and the strengthening of monitoring and supervision to ameliorate the fraudulent use of suspensive regimes, including bonded transit and warehousing.
Overall, it should be acknowledged that both the success of trade policy reforms and customs administration depend on the proper synchronisation of the two processes through the re-evaluation of the various objectives of the Customs service, and a redefinition of its functions, organisation, and methods of operation.
Chairperson, Distinguished Delegates,
The expansion in the traditional role of Customs, as an enforcement agency, to that of trade facilitation in the 21st Century, has led to the emergence of Customs as a prominent business partner to industry players. Customs administrations must therefore see themselves in the context of the twin roles of trade facilitator and guardian of the community.
As trade facilitator, they should be committed to building strategic partnerships with the business sector, including helping to maintain the competitive edge of the local industry.
I do believe that the benefits of greater efficiency, enhanced competitiveness and higher productivity in the new global economic environment would be better achieved if the Customs service is responsive to the needs of industry in the areas of simplification of procedures; efficient processing of shipments; and the transparent use of rules and regulations.
Furthermore, Customs can assist the business sector to minimise the costs arising from the unexpected loss of time through the attainment of just-in-time deliveries and avoidance of stock accumulation and prolonged warehousing.
This notwithstanding, the prevailing state of global insecurity requires us all not to lose focus on the traditional enforcement role of Customs. In this respect, customs administrations would need to strengthen themselves and ensure that their specific control mandate is used not only to guard against illegal activities, but also protect the integrity of our socio-economic systems.
Collaboration between customs administrations is critical, especially within the context of regional and multilateral cooperation. This is important for addressing national and regional security issues relating to the rising menace of terrorism; the proliferation of light weapons, narcotics, smuggling, money-laundering and other cross-border crimes. It is gratifying to note that the WCO has already developed various tools and instruments to enhance collaborative efforts in this direction.
Chairperson, Distinguished Delegates,
I must make the point that the reform and modernisation of customs administrations in developing countries is being hampered by challenges such as outdated procedures; inadequate legislation; limited ICT application; institutional and human resource capacity; and coordination and cooperation with other regulatory authorities like the tax and ports administrations.
It is my pleasure to share with you what my Administration is doing to overcome some of these challenges, in order to enhance Customs efficiency as well as foster greater collaboration with relevant Government Ministries, Departments and Agencies (MDAs).
Recognising that the traditional Customs control methodology can no longer adequately address the needs of industry in the new globalised business environment, my Administration is committed to the continuous review and revision of customs procedures. In particular, we aim to reduce the cost of doing business through savings in paper work, and reduction in the total transaction cost, including cargo clearance and risk assessment. In addition, Nigeria appreciates the need to ensure minimal physical contact and presumptive discretion; and to entrench accountability and transparency in trade and investment transactions through the sharing and exchange of experiences and best practices.
We have introduced the Single Window concept; reduced the number of agencies operating at the ports; introduced the one-stop-check procedure in customs clearance; established Inland Container Depots; and strengthened other sister agencies like the Nigeria Ports Authority (NPA) and the Nigerian Shippers’ Council (NSC).
All these measures are geared towards ensuring that the operational efficiency of Customs is enhanced, in order to maintain a high degree of compliance whilst facilitating the smooth movement of goods and persons, and reducing possible disruption in legitimate trade.
On legislation, the review of the Customs and Excise Management Act (CEMA) Cap 45 Law of the Federation of Nigeria 2004 along with other customs and excise notices, decrees, and guidelines is on-going. In particular, the Law would be duly aligned with the WTO Customs Valuation Agreement with a view to strengthening the implementation of customs formalities and clearance procedures.
Similarly, efforts are being made to bring Nigeria’s customs law in line with international best practices such as the Revised Kyoto Convention, implementation of the border provisions of the WTO TRIPS Agreement, and the WCO SAFE framework on standards. The new legislation will also strengthen the penalty structure to ensure an adequate level of deterrence.
Nigeria is committed to the ongoing Doha Round negotiations on Trade Facilitation, with priority attached to the sections dealing with substantive disciplines, special and differential treatment, as well as technical assistance and capacity building. A National Trade Facilitation Committee has been established to coordinate and provide technical backstopping to our Geneva-based negotiators.
With respect to ICT application, the main objective is to move away from the current labour intensive operating method to electronic and automation systems, using the latest technologies that would promote the adoption of the appropriate tools for facilitation and compliance purposes. My Government has provided the enablement for full automation of Customs processes, so as to ensure the simplification of procedures, speedy documentation, and the promotion of transactional transparency.
Chairperson, Distinguished Delegates,
To complement the on-going reform and modernisation of the Nigeria Customs Service, my Administration is committed to the maintenance and upgrading of the country’s extensive transport system of roads, railways, inland waterways, sea ports and airports.
In particular, we are undertaking appropriate reforms in maritime transport and port operations, which aim at enhancing the capacity of existing regulatory institutions like the Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency (NIMASA), Nigerian Shippers’ Council (NSC) and the Nigerian Ports Authority (NPA). Twenty-six concessionaires are presently operating in six existing ports, under the landlord system that has been introduced. The existing port terminals have been leased out to private companies, with concession periods of 10 or 25 years.
While the NPA retains responsibility for planning and development, as well as nautical management and regulations, the private companies are responsible for terminal operations, employment of port labour, land-based investment and the maintenance of infrastructure and equipment. The companies may also undertake new investments.
The government is working on a Ports and Harbours Bill that is expected to further strengthen and sustain the policy shift to private-sector operation of ports under concession agreements.
As a corollary, the reforms which we have instituted in the Nigeria Customs Service would need to be enforced and implemented by competent, professional and dedicated people. Consequently, we need to focus on programmes that promote and enhance staff training, career development, professionalism, morale and integrity.
I was delighted to meet the Secretary-General when I officially commissioned the Customs Command and Staff College in our nation’s capital, Abuja. I would like to seize this opportunity to thank the Secretary-General and member States for designating the Staff College as a Regional Training Centre. I am happy to inform you that the College is already being put to very good use.
Chairperson, Distinguished Delegates,
I wish to reaffirm before you all at this Forum, that the Nigerian Customs Service has the unstinted support of the Federal Government of Nigeria as it rightfully lives up to its onerous responsibilities in our region and within the World Customs Organization.
I would like to conclude by saluting the leadership of the WCO for their inspired choice of connectivity as the theme for the 60th Anniversary celebration. In the light of the prevailing realities in today’s world, the choice could not have been more apt. I urge that connectivity, and all that it connotes, remains the eternal ethos of not only all customs administrations across the world, but all of the world’s governments and peoples as we collectively strive to evolve a more secure, just, equitable, peaceful and prosperous world.
While congratulating you all once again on your Diamond Jubilee celebrations, I wish you very fruitful and fulfilling deliberations at the sessions of the World Customs Organization.
Thank you.
Extreme makeover: Tom Cruise rubs bird shit into his face in attempt to stay looking young!
Some celebrities opt for a bit of Botox or even a chemical peel in an attempt to keep their youthful looks.
But not Tom Cruise, who instead swears that a smearing of bird-droppings on his face is all he needs to stay young.
According to Now magazine, the Rock of Ages star, 49, has told friends that his skin has never looked better thanks to the expensive spa treatment.
It involves mixing poo from a nightingale with rice bran and water which is then applied as a face mask.
And a source told the magazine: 'Tom doesn’t go in for Botox or surgery but he does pay close attention to all the new natural treatments.
'He recently started experimenting with the nightingale poo facial after it was recommended by a Hollywood pal and the results have been fantastic.'
Tom, who is married to 33-year-old actress Katie Holmes with whom he has a daughter, Suri, aged six, doesn't believe in plastic surgery and said this is a better alternative.
The source added: 'Tom doesn’t see splashing out on the facials as him being vain or weird. In fact, he points out there are much wackier fads out there.'
Other celebrities believed to be fans of the poo treatment include David and Victoria Beckham, who used to be good friends with Cruise and Holmes.
New York beautician Shizuka Bernstein said: 'The nightingale poo acts as an exfoliant that brings out the dirt and adds shine.'
Amy Winehouse's boyfriend Reg Traviss charged with two counts of rape
The former boyfriend of the late singer Amy Winehouse has been charged with rape.
Reg Traviss faces two counts of rape and will appear before magistrates next month.
The 35-year-old had been seeing the singer for more than a year when she died at her home in Camden, north London, last July.
The film director has been behind movies including Psychosis, which featured Charisma Carpenter and Darkness frontman Justin Hawkins.
Traviss, who was charged under his full name Reginald, was arrested on April 5 by the Metropolitan Police in relation to an allegation of rape reported on January 18.
Rebecca Mundy, a lawyer for the Crown Prosecution Service, said: 'I have authorised the Metropolitan Police to charge Reginald Traviss with two counts of rape.
'The alleged offences took place between 29 December 2011 and 1 January 2012.'
The lawyer from the CPS London Rape and Serious Sexual Offences Unit added: 'The decision was taken in accordance with the Code for Crown Prosecutors.'
He will appear at Westminster Magistrates’ Court on July 17.
He admitted that he still hadn't come to terms with the fact she has gone.
Speaking to the Sunday Times he said: 'What felt surreal was not the cameras and the craziness but losing somebody, just like that. One minute I was speaking to her, the next she was gone
'You might say we were halfway through a conversation in our life together and then, suddenly, she disappeared.'
Sack Petroleum Minister now, Protesters at NNPC headquarters tells Jonathan
The spokesperson of End Impunity Now campaign and convener of the protest, Jaiye Gaskia said the group wants the federal government to take necessary steps to end the corruption in the downstream sector.
The protesters claimed that they will continue their protests in different parts of the country and will submit a petition to the EFCC. They also called on Nigerians to be more politically active.
Mr Gaskia said the protest was to demand the removal of the Petroleum Minister by the president or her resignation as alternative, over her perceived involvement in the fuel subsidy fraud. They are also demanding the full implementation of the subsidy probe report.
Furthermore, the protesters are asking the government to address the security situation in the country and the incessant hike in electricity tariff.
Furthermore, the protesters are asking the government to address the security situation in the country and the incessant hike in electricity tariff.
The protesters were however faced with resistance from over 30 armed policemen who refused to allow them access to the premises and who asked them to get a permit from the Abuja Police Command before they can hold the protest.
The protesters however argued that there is an existing law which allows Nigerians organise protests without police permit.
As at the time of publishing this report, the protesters have been dispersed.
As at the time of publishing this report, the protesters have been dispersed.
However, the acting spokesperson of NNPC, Fidel Pepple in a telephone interview said “the NNPC has reinforced its commitment to ensuring the values of transparency and accountability and has nothing to hide. The corporation will be available at all times for public scrutiny of its records.”
Mr Pepple observed that the protesters have exercised their fundamental human rights to peaceful demonstration.
Snoop Dogg 'detained at Norway airport after police discover 8 grams of marijuana'
Snoop Dogg was detained at an airport in Norway today after authorities allegedly found him in possession of marijuana.
The rapper, 40, was stopped at customs at the Kjevic Airport in Kristiansand where customs officers are said to have discovered eight grams of the drug.
He was fined 12,000 Norwegian Krone - just under $2000 - and released.
Snoop will perform at the Hove Festival later today.
It was his second drug bust this year alone - in January he was arrested in Sierra Blanca, Texas after his transport was stopped at a Border Patrol checkpoint.
Snoop has a long history of legal problems, including a 1993 murder charge, from which he was eventually acquitted, numerous convictions for marijuana possession and in 2007 he was given a given a three-year suspended sentence after pleading no contest to possessing a gun and drugs.
Earlier this year he announced he wanted to speak to Barack Obama in a smoky room so he could ask him to legalise his favourite drug.
In an interview on Hot 99.5 he said: 'Before I even said "Hi" to President Obama, I would change the aroma of the room.
'And then we could start conversing after we had that aroma change. You know what I’m talking about?'
Arsenal sign deal with African mobile operator Airtel
The deal will allow Airtel to use the clubs merchandising, hospitality and content rights in Nigeria, Zambia, Ghana, Uganda and Rwanda, and by signing this agreement, Arsenal will be able to reach out to many of the estimated 42 million fans based in the African continent.
Airtel customers in the five countries will be able to enter competitions to win ticket to this summers pre-season matches as well as receive exclusive Arsenal-related content and news on their mobile phones, while Airtel will also be the official mobile operator for Arsenal’s 2012 Tour of Nigeria.
As part of the agreement, Arsenal will help Airtel with their Rising Stars football programme, which is a training initiative that offers young children the chance to take part in football in a safe place. The Gunners will also provide UEFA-trained coaches to help develop football in the African continent and also at an Arsenal coaching clinic for up to 50 footballers in London.
Arsenal’s Head of Global Partnerships Vinai Venkatesham told Arsenal.com:
“I am delighted to welcome Airtel into our family of Commercial Partners. This is the second long-term partnership arrangement to arise from the continent and we look forward to developing a number of exciting initiatives with Airtel, starting with our forthcoming tour to Nigeria in August. This underlines the depth of our following in Africa and how the profile of the Club continues to grow internationally.”
Airtel Africa Chief Marketing Officer, Andre Beyers, told Arsenal.com:
“Football fans across Africa are known for their passion of the great game. Arsenal’s exciting style of play and a history of working with the best talent from Africa will enrich this partnership and offer a wealth of opportunities for upcoming players and fans. The partnership provides an impetus to the Airtel Rising Stars in some of the countries that have produced amazing young talent and whose youth teams have gone on to win FIFA Youth and Olympic tournaments.’’
This is another exciting deal that proves Arsenal are making strides in improving the clubs commercial activities, and it seems they are keen to build upon the huge following the club has in Africa.
19 Villages Marked for Demolition in FCT – FCTA
In a statement made known to the News Agency of Nigeria on Thursday in Abuja, the Head of Public Relations Unit, Department of Development Control, Abuja Metropolitan Management Council, Mrs. Josie Mudashiru disclosed that at least nineteen (19) villages in the Federal Capital Teritory (FCT) have been marked for demolition demolition by the Federal Capital Teritory Authority (FCTA).The affected villages are: Idu, Karmo-Dape, Tasha, Gwagwa, Suburi, Zauda, Jahi, Gishiri, Mabushi, Mpape, Kuchigoro, Chika, Aleita, Piwoyi, Lugbe, Pyakassa, Tudun-wada, Dei-dei and Guzape.According to her, the AMMC has commenced a two-month sensitization period in the affected areas. In her words “we have commenced sensitization programmes in Hausa, Igbo, Yoruba, Gwari and pidgin English in the affected areas before the demolition exercise… we have involved chiefs, youths and other stakeholders in the sensitisation programme”.After the sensitization will come the “marking” period which will be followed by the demolition proper which is expected to take place before the end of the year: “…we will proceed for marking after the programme, and hopefully, the demolition will commence before the end of 2012”. She pointed out that the FCT Urban Development had, before no made several efforts to persuade non-indigenes to refrain from buying lands from local chiefs.
Jennifer Lopez's Toilet Seat Request
Jennifer Lopez refuses to use any toilet unless it is fitted with her own special seat, according to reports.
Apparently the star makes sure she always has access to her own potty cover to ensure a germ-free bathroom experience.
A source told The Sun newspaper: ''Jennifer is a clean-freak and doesn't like putting her bum on any toilet unless it's on her own custom-made seat. It's a cover made to fit any loo.''
The actress and singer is well-known for wanting to protect her prize possession.
Jennifer's ex-boyfriend Ben Affleck was rumoured to have purchased a gem-encrusted portable device for her to use while travelling the world.
At the time of their dating, the actor allegedly paid $105,000 in 2003 for the gem-studded toilet seat, featuring rubies, sapphires, pearls and a diamond.
A source told The National Enquirer: ''The stones are set inside the plastic, so Jennifer's behind won't get scratched.''
He told a friend: ''Jennifer is my princess and she deserves only the best -- even when it comes to toilets.''
Designed by Ben himself, the report added that the stones were set inside the plastic, so Jennifer's behind wouldn't get scratched.
Apparently the star makes sure she always has access to her own potty cover to ensure a germ-free bathroom experience.
A source told The Sun newspaper: ''Jennifer is a clean-freak and doesn't like putting her bum on any toilet unless it's on her own custom-made seat. It's a cover made to fit any loo.''
The actress and singer is well-known for wanting to protect her prize possession.
Jennifer's ex-boyfriend Ben Affleck was rumoured to have purchased a gem-encrusted portable device for her to use while travelling the world.
At the time of their dating, the actor allegedly paid $105,000 in 2003 for the gem-studded toilet seat, featuring rubies, sapphires, pearls and a diamond.
A source told The National Enquirer: ''The stones are set inside the plastic, so Jennifer's behind won't get scratched.''
He told a friend: ''Jennifer is my princess and she deserves only the best -- even when it comes to toilets.''
Designed by Ben himself, the report added that the stones were set inside the plastic, so Jennifer's behind wouldn't get scratched.
John Travolta Hit With Latest Sexual Assault Lawsuit
John Travolta has been hit with yet another sex attack lawsuit, the former 'Grease' and ' Pulp Fiction' man once again finding his name under a cloud, as another claimant comes forward to report an incident of sexual misdemeanor. People Magazine reports that Fabian Zanzi, a former Royal Caribbean cruise room attendant, has accused Travolta of stripping off and pushing against him before offering $12,000 for him to keep quiet.Zanzi has alleged that the actor told him "Take me, I will take care of you, please" during a food delivery to his room. First making the claims to a Spanish news outlet, the man is seeking unspecified damages for assault and battery as well as emotional distress. Travolta has already been faced with two lawsuits this year claiming similar incidents, although both have since been retracted. His lawyer Marty Singer was dismissive in his view of the suit, claiming "This is another ludicrous lawsuit with inane claims. It is obvious that Mr. Zanzi and his lawyers are looking for their 15 minutes of fame."
Indeed, Singer has pointed out that Zanzi didn't point out any sexual contact in his report of the encounter, an omission that "speaks volumes", whilst he also continued to work for the company for some 18 months after the alleged encounter took place, despite the claimant stating that he'd been restrained in a segregated room for five days by the company until Travolta had left the ship.
Indeed, Singer has pointed out that Zanzi didn't point out any sexual contact in his report of the encounter, an omission that "speaks volumes", whilst he also continued to work for the company for some 18 months after the alleged encounter took place, despite the claimant stating that he'd been restrained in a segregated room for five days by the company until Travolta had left the ship.
Wednesday, 27 June 2012
Oprah Winfrey To Appear On Kardashians
Oprah Winfrey will appear in an upcoming episode of 'Keeping Up with the Kardashians', it has been confirmed.Oprah Winfrey will appear on a forthcoming episode of 'Keeping Up with the Kardashians'.
The television megastar recently interviewed a number of members of the Los Angeles-based family - including Kim, Khoe and Kourtney and their mother Kris Jenner - and it has been confirmed she will now be seen in a forthcoming instalment of the E! network show.
Kim revealed on the two-part special 'Oprah's Next Chapter' special on her OWN network she was close to her boyfriend Kanye West because they could both relate to losing a parent at a young age.
She said: ''It's very comforting to have someone that knows everything about you, that respects you, understands, has gone through the similar things.
''I can really relate to his mother passing. He can really relate to my father passing. I mean, there's so many similarities in our life that ... I feel like I'm at a really happy, good space.''
Kourtney and her boyfriend Scott Disick also revealed therapy helped their relationship stay strong.
She said: ''He's grown so much over the years. I love seeing him as a dad - he's great with Mason - and I'm not saying that we're perfect. We go to therapy, which helps us a lot. I think we're always working to better ourselves, which I think a lot of people can do.''
The television megastar recently interviewed a number of members of the Los Angeles-based family - including Kim, Khoe and Kourtney and their mother Kris Jenner - and it has been confirmed she will now be seen in a forthcoming instalment of the E! network show.
Kim revealed on the two-part special 'Oprah's Next Chapter' special on her OWN network she was close to her boyfriend Kanye West because they could both relate to losing a parent at a young age.
She said: ''It's very comforting to have someone that knows everything about you, that respects you, understands, has gone through the similar things.
''I can really relate to his mother passing. He can really relate to my father passing. I mean, there's so many similarities in our life that ... I feel like I'm at a really happy, good space.''
Kourtney and her boyfriend Scott Disick also revealed therapy helped their relationship stay strong.
She said: ''He's grown so much over the years. I love seeing him as a dad - he's great with Mason - and I'm not saying that we're perfect. We go to therapy, which helps us a lot. I think we're always working to better ourselves, which I think a lot of people can do.''
Spain win 4-2 on penalties. Fabregas hits winning spot-kick as holders squeeze through to final
Cesc Fabregas sent Spain's into their third successive major final with the winning kick in a dramatic Euro 2012 semi-final penalty shoot-out in which Cristiano Ronaldo's gamble on taking Portugal's last spot-kick backfired.
World and European champions Spain defeated their Iberian neighbours 4-2, with Joao Moutinho and Bruno Alves missing for the Portuguese.
But with Ronaldo waiting to take the final penalty for Portugal, Fabregas’s shot, which went in off the post, made it 4-2 to Spain and denied the Real Madrid forward the chance to make an impact in the shoot-out.
Having deployed Fabregas in the 'false nine’ role or Fernando Torres as the spearhead of Spain’s attack so far in this tournament, Vicente del Bosque sprung a surprise by naming the Sevilla forward Alvaro Negredo in his starting line-up for the first time at Euro 2012.
With Portugal’s resolute defence proving to be the bedrock of their progression to the semi-finals alongside Ronaldo’s goals, the more physical presence of Negredo was intended to put pressure on the Portuguese centre-backs, Pepe and Bruno Alves.
Negredo, who turned down a £12 million transfer from Real Madrid to Hull City three years ago — strange, but true — lacked the flair of Fabregas and the pace of Torres, but his selection had the desired effect with both of Spain’s early chances involving the 26 year-old.
Just nine minutes into the game, Negredo created a clear chance for full-back Alvaro Arbeloa by laying off an Andrés Iniesta pass to the former Liverpool defender, who found himself with an unobstructed strike on goal from 20 yards.
Instead of striking the ball, though, Arbeloa displayed the finishing of the defender that he is by sidefooting high over Rui Patricio’s crossbar.
Some 12 minutes later, Negredo once again acted as the hub of Spain’s attacking forays by latching on to Xabi Alonso’s long pass before laying into Xavi, whose instant pass to Iniesta resulted in the Barcelona midfielder curling his effort over the bar.
By that stage, Spain were having to overcome the crowd as well as their Iberian neighbours, who went into the game having never beaten the opposition outside of Portugal.
For whatever reason, though, the majority of those inside the three-quarters full were backing Portugal and their unsporting whistling of Spain’s players whenever they began to pass the ball around the pitch was a strange development.
The failure of Turkish referee Cuneyt Cakir to book Sergio Ramos for an early foul on Nani, when play was simply waved on, angered the Portuguese and appeared to win over the neutrals.
Before the game, concern had been voiced in Portugal over the selection of Cakir due to Uefa’s referees’ committee being chaired by the president of the Spanish Football Federation and a Turkish vice-president, Senes Erzik. It smacked of Portuguese paranoia, the worst of Jose Mourinho’s 'us against the world’ mentality being aired by the Real Madrid manager’s fellow countrymen.
Ronaldo, the man who struck fear into Spanish hearts, struggled to make an impression in the first half and it was the tenacity of midfielder Meireles and João Moutinho which caught the eye.
Resilience and aggression tends not to be enough against Spain, however, and while Ronaldo remained quiet, Del Bosque’s team had the edge.
The Spanish players, wearing black armbands as a tribute to the 23 year-old Real Betis defender Miki Roque, who last a battle against pelvic cancer at the weekend, simply lacked a finishing touch to round off their dominance of possession.
Portugal’s readiness to hassle Spain began to frustrate Del Bosque’s team, however, and the fluency of their passing markedly diminished.
Such was Spain’s inability to keep the ball early in the second half that Negredo was replaced by Fabregas in an attempt to regain the upper hand.
Only Spain could take off their only forward and replace him with a midfielder while drawing 0-0, but the switch highlighted Del Bosque’s lack of faith in Torres, who remained rooted the bench.
When David Silva was replaced by Jesus Navas on the hour, it was another blow to Torres’s status as the No 1 striker in the Spain squad.
Portugal were able to capitalise on Spain’s uncertainty by creating a succession of chances, but none were good enough to trouble goalkeeper Iker Casillas.
Hugo Almeida sent two left-foot strikes high and wide before Ronaldo was booked for complaining at Cakir’s refusal to give a penalty following a Ramos challenge on the hour mark.
There was nothing wrong with the challenge and Ronaldo’s reaction merely highlighted his growing frustration at being unable to influence the game.
But Spain’s match-winners were also having an off night and it was not until Xavi struck a 25-yard shot on 68 minutes that either goalkeeper had a shot to save.
The game descended into a war of attrition, a series of cynical fouls by both sets of players, with Pepe kneeing Real team-mate Xabi Alonso in the back and Alves flooring Fabregas with a crude challenge from behind.
Nani was also on the receiving end from Sergio Ramos, but Portugal’s best chance came courtesy of a free-kick awarded following the merest brush by Arbeloa on Ronaldo. He sent it narrowly over the bar, however, and he repeated his near miss from another free-kick on 85 minutes.
Then came his skewed left-foot strike from 12 yards which denied the game a winner within 90 minutes.
As penalties loomed, Spain upped the ante. Iniesta was denied by Rui Patricio and Ramos sent a free-kick wide, but d it had to be settled on penalties.