LAUTECH Awards Scholarship to Student

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September 17, 2019

Management of Ladoke Akintola University of Technology (LAUTECH), Ogbomoso, has awarded Adegboyega Taofeek Abiodun, a student in the department of Civil Engineering, Faculty of Engineering & Technology, the best overall 100 level student at the end of 2017/2018 academic session.

Adegboyega with matriculation number 162939, garnered Cumulative Gross Point Average (CGPA) of 4.96 at the end of the session and was found worthy in character.

By the award, he is to enjoy free tuition fee throughout the period of his undergraduate study in the University, provided his CGPA does not fall below 3.50 at the end of each academic session.

The effective date of commencement of the award is 2017/2018 academic session.

Minimum wage negotiation: Workers set to embark on strike

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September 17, 2019

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Workers, under the aegis of the Joint Public Sector Negotiating Council (JPSNC), are threatening to go on strike as a meeting of the Federal Government and the unions ended yesterday in a deadlock.
The negotiations on the consequential adjustment, which was earlier adjourned till September 4 to allow the government’s team brief President Muhammadu Buhari, was rescheduled for September 16.
But it suffered another setback as both parties failed to reach an agreement, despite minor adjustments in their separate positions.
It was gathered that at yesterday’s meeting, which was chaired by the Head of Service of the Federation (HOSF), Mrs Winifred Oyo-Ita, both government and the union leaders only made minor adjustments to their earlier positions.
The government moved from its earlier position of 9.5 per cent to 11 per cent for Grade Levels Seven to 14 and 6.5 per cent from 5.5 per cent for Levels 15 to 17.

The workers insisted that the government adjust salaries of workers on Grade Levels Seven to 14 by 30 per cent and those on Levels 15 to 17 by 25 per cent.
Chairman of Labour’s team and National Auditor of the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) Simon Anchaver said workers stepped down to 29 per cent, from 30 per cent, for Grade Levels Seven to 14 and down to 24 from 25 per cent for Levels 15 to 17
According to him, the negotiating council resolved to write to the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) and the Trade Union Congress (TUC) on their advice about a possible industrial action.
Also, Secretary of the negotiating council, Slade Lawal said organised labour would decide on the next line of action on the minimum wage.
The labour leader said in due time, Nigerians would be informed.
Lawal said: “The meeting is deadlocked. We found out that the Federal Government officials are not serious about it at all. We are suspecting foul play or a hidden agenda somewhere. So, we have decided to report the development to our principals, including the labour unions. Nigerians will be adequately briefed about our next line of action very shortly.”
Minister of Labour and Employment, Senator Chris Ngige, recently told reporters that President Muhammadu Buhari had directed that the process of negotiations be concluded as soon as possible to enable workers begin to enjoy the new wages.

Governor Fayemi comments on the Violent Protest of FUOYE students

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September 16, 2019

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Governor Kayode Fayemi of Ekiti State has responded to the violent protest of students of the Federal University, Oye-Ekiti that happened last week. The Governor addressed the people of the state and below are his words-

“Ekitikete,

I have in the last few days agonised over the incident that took place at the Federal University, Oye Ekiti (FUOYE) on Tuesday, September 10, 2019.

Until the multiple investigations are completed, I am necessarily constrained from talking about the details of what transpired. I however do not need to be constrained about the emotions a tragedy like this evokes.

Any death is a tragedy. Any shooting arising from legitimate protests diminishes our fledgling democratic dispensation and calls to question our commitment to fundamental human rights.

Having heard from all parties to the incident, it is pertinent that I now personally convey my deeply felt sorrow for the loss of two promising young lives and for those who suffered injuries.

To be sure, our government prides itself on its strict adherence to the rule of law. The right of citizens to protest on any issue relating to governmental actions or inactions is a fundamental component of our good governance agenda.

We could not therefore under any circumstances have directed that deadly force be used on any of our citizens freely expressing their right to protest.

Even before the conclusion of the investigations into this matter, we have taken a number of steps; a high level government delegation has visited the families of the deceased. This will not be a one-off intervention. We will stand firmly with & support the families at this time.

Those persons with varying degrees of injuries will also be given support whilst their hospital expenses will be defrayed by government.

I have directed the State Commissioner of Police to urgently commence an investigation into the circumstances that led to the unfortunate shooting incident with a view to identifying possible culprits within and outside the Force.

Taken together with the ongoing investigation by the University management, we will consider the need for an independent panel of inquiry, if necessary once these fact finding investigations are concluded.

In the meantime, I have suggested to our police authorities to explore the use of non-lethal rubber bullets in managing public protests and the Nigerian Governors Forum will take this up at the highest levels in government.

Indeed it is obvious that the wife of the Governor and those on her entourage are victims of this unfortunate incident.

The issue that led to the protest has been the subject of intense disagreement and negotiations with BEDC since I became Governor.

Last week, my Commissioner for Infrastructure and Public Utilities was still in Benin to see BEDC management on the matter of inadequate and inconsistent supply of electricity in Ekiti State.

Though Governors do not have any control over privatised power distribution companies, the four Governors from the states covered by the Benin DISCO have consistently expressed dissatisfaction with the services of BEDC and taken the matter up with the Vice President who chairs the Privatisation Council.

In addition to this, I have been talking to the Rural Electrification Agency about including FUOYE in the next round of their University Electrification Project.

I therefore appeal for calm and caution as we await the reports of the various investigations. No persons or group should attempt to use this tragic incident to destabilise the peace and progress of Ekiti State.

It is time for sober reflection as we mourn the dead and care for the wounded.

Thank you and God bless you all.”

Senate President Lawan, Gbajabiamila, CJN Tanko, others under probe

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September 16, 2019

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The Federal Government has commenced an investigation into bank accounts belonging to Senate President Ahmed Lawan, Speaker of the House of Reps Femi Gbajabiamila and other principal officers of the National Assembly.

The probe conducted by the Nigerian Financial Intelligence Unit (NFIU) would also investigate accounts owned by Nigeria judges including the Chief Justice of Nigeria (CJN), Tanko Muhammad.

A letter dated Sept. 10, 2019, and signed by NFIU Associate Director, Analysis and Compliance, Fehintola Salisu, stated that the Chief Compliance Officers of banks were directed to release the account details of all legislators and judiciary officials in the country.

The Financial Intelligence agency further asked the banks to provide account names, numbers and transaction details of the top civil servants.

NFIU listed judges and national assembly members but failed to list any member of the executive arm of government for the same investigation.

The letter with reference: NFIU/ACCFT/ACCOBANKS/VOL.I/877/PO5IA29 reads: “Request for information on: All accounts of: the National Assembly, National Judicial Council (NJC), all the members of the National Assembly, principal officers (management) of the National Assembly Service Commission, (and) of principal officers of the judiciary.

BUA Cement excites over 500 building technicians, block makers nationwide

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September 16, 2019

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BUA Cement has continued its technical capacity development Programmes for building technicians and block makers across Nigeria with its cement usage workshops held in collaboration with the Industrial Training Fund (ITF) and the Standards Organization of Nigeria (SON). So far, over 500 building technicians and block makers have been trained with the latest conducted in Ilorin and Lagos this week.

Some stakeholders who shared their experiences with BUA Cement at the event were excited with the one-day workshop tagged “Optimizing Cement Usage to Achieve Better Quality and Yields in Block-Making” designed to offer standard practices to the stakeholders to address the series of building collapse in the country.

Speaking, Samuel Daniel the Deputy Chairman of the Ogbomoso Block Industry said “BUA Cement dries fast and it is stronger because when the blocks are molded today, the next day the blocks are already dried and strong. Also when you are loading the blocks in the truck, it is the same amount of blocks molded that will be there. None will be broken or shattered”.

Corroborating Samuel’s claim was Famuagun Caleb another stakeholder from Ado-Ekiti who said, “I want to testify that BUA Cement is super. Since I have been using the product, and in over two years of using it without error, I want to testify that BUA Cement is strong. I have used BUA Cement, come rain, sun shine and I can tell you that BUA Cement is the best”.

Addressing the stakeholders, , Nasiru Ladan, General Manager Sales, BUA (Obu) Cement thanked them for their continued patronage of BUA Cement “The King of Strength” and berated the wrong application of cement and other construction materials in bid to reduce cost and maximize profits, thereby producing substandard infrastructure within the country.

According to Ladan, “We will continue to intensify education, awareness and training of end users on the correct use of the cement mixes in collaboration with relevant standard and regulatory bodies.

“So what we are doing here today is simple. BUA Cement has consistently made it its responsibility to educate stakeholders in the building and block making industry on the proper mix and application of cement with other materials. We believe that standard building of high-quality is possible only if the mix of the cement with other materials is appropriate.

“Cement quality is of primary importance to the ultimate consumers who are builders, concrete and block makers. This is where the BUA Cement brand is different from others because it is of 42.5 and 52.5 texture grade. This is the highest quality texture, which mixes and dries easily. BUA Cement is certified in fineness, setting time, soundness and strength. These are the value of the cement and requirements in the mix with other construction materials such as sand, granite, etc.”

Onigbinde resigns as Technical Adviser in Budget ministry

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September 16, 2019

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Seun Onigbinde Co-founder of BudgIT, on Monday, announced his resignation as the Technical Adviser to the Minister of State for Budget and National Planning. Onigbinde made this announcement on Monday.

He said, “Upon further reflections on the furore that has been generated by my new role as the Technical Adviser to the Minister of State for Budget and National Planning, I humbly resign the appointment.”

“I am very grateful to the Honourable Minister, Prince Clem Ikanade Agba, for believing in my expertise and I also thank everyone who sent his or her congratulations to me in the short period. I have also been humbled by the faith and belief that numerous persons have expressed in me.

“My sincere interest is to see a Nigeria that grows and optimises resources for the benefits of all Nigerians.

“My loyalty to the good cause of our nation, Nigeria compelled me to accept the call to provide technical skills and this experience has more than strengthened it.

“I also want to wish the Nigerian Government, led by President Muhammadu Buhari, well. I will always be of help to the federal government in my capacity as the Director of BudgIT, a critical fiscal transparency group, as I have been to several agencies. I would also work to ensure that BudgIT continues to build civic awareness on the right of every Nigerian to know how public resources are managed.”

VDT Communications opens experience center in Ikoyi

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September 16, 2019

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In a strategic move to deepen market penetration and improve customer service, VDT communications Limited, a 4G Lte broadband internet communications provider recently opened its flagship Customer Experience Center for its 4G Lte Advanced internet Service along Awolowo road in Ikoyi, Lagos.

The experience center comprises customer service desk, customer waiting area, experience console, technical help desk, with a 24/7 call centre attached. The center is to give its customers hands-on experience of 4G Lte Advanced products and services.

“By the opening of the experience center, VDT Communications has taken its customer service a notch higher; offering a platform to showcase its customers-centric disposition and friendly attitude aimed at always adding value and keeping the customers delighted,” said Abiodun Omoniyi, the MD/CEO of VDT Communications Limited, stating that “This is just one of such experience center to be opened in strategic areas in Lagos and other parts of Nigeria as our 4G Lte Advanced internet coverage expands”.

According to him, the VDT experience center promises to offer a holistic and total premium experience for pre, during and after-sales services to customers. “The experience center is an off-shoot of the culture of quality customer service of which the VDT Communications brand is synonymous with. VDT Communications is ISO 9001: 2015 certified. It is also the first ISO 20000:2011 certified telecom company in west and central Africa for excellent IT service management,” Omoniyi stated.

Olabiyi Durojaiye, the chairman of the Board of Commissioners of the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) said Nigeria can leverage ICT in bridging its huge infrastructure deficit, as he pledged the commission’s resolve to collaboratively work with players in the telecom sector.

“…our determination to identify, train and nurture Nigerian youth to compete with the Bill Gates and Zuckerberg of this world; and they are here,” said Durojaiye stating that NCC is poised to collaborate with industry players to grow more local talents in the field of telecom and ICT in general.

Air Peace to evacuate 320 Nigerians from South Africa tomorrow

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September 16, 2019

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Allen Onyeama of Air Peace

The management of Air Peace has confirmed that it would evacuate the second batch of Nigerians from South Africa on Tuesday.

The airline said the flight is expected to arrive Lagos from OR Tambo International Airport at 7:00 pm on Tuesday.

Chairman and CEO of Air Peace, Allen Onyema, who said that the flight would leave Nigeria after mid night on Tuesday and arrive South Africa in the morning but would depart South Africa mid day back to Lagos.

Onyema also disclosed that, out of over 600 Nigerians that are willing to come, 360 of them have been cleared for the evacuation.

He however, said the airline would airlift 320 in the second batch, which is the capacity of the aircraft, Boeing 777 deployed for the flight.

It was learnt that despite the peace moves by President Cyril Ramaphosa to apologise to African countries over the Xenophobic attacks in his country, many Nigerians were still willing to return home.

A source said many people were not certain of their safety in South Africa hence, their resolve to come home, taking advantage of the opportunity provided by Air Peace.

Chat commerce, key to growing Nigerian businesses – Van Rensburg

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September 16, 2019

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From left Hannes Van Rensburg, Chief Commercial Officer, Clickatel lNigeria; Samson Isa, Director, Clickatell West Africa; Tonwa Anthony, Key Account Manager, Clickatell Nigeria; Temitope Omoniyi, Partnerships Director, Clickatell West and East Africa and Charles Elliman, Senior Vice President, Commercial Middle East and Africa at the 2019 Clickatell Customer Appreciation forum in Lagos.

Nigerian businesses can be successful and better managed if there is a cost effective way of handling transactions, reducing purchasing risk by increasing social interaction and personalization of shopping experience through chat commerce.
This was the view of the Chief Commercial Officer, Clickatell, Hannes Van Rensburg who spoke to newsmen in Lagos recently.

Describing Nigeria as a laboratory of ideas, Van Rensburg noted that Clickatell understands emerging markets and has come revolutionize the narrative on chat commerce. He noted that the company has the right digital connections that will enable companies engage in chat transactions.

He added that the company is already doing business with banks and telecommunications companies and their solution has been deployed to enhance transactions for Nigerians. “The reason why e-commerce companies in Nigeria are struggling is because the population of Nigerians that uses the internet on their laptop and PC is very limited compared to the number of people that uses their cell phones and this will facilitate chat commerce in Nigeria. This will aid the growth of businesses within the Nigerian market.”

He urged Nigerian businesses to embrace Clickatell, according to me, “I don’t think e-commerce will fail in Nigeria, but I think chat commerce will be significantly more successful because we are ready to partner and excited to work with Nigeria”, he said.
According to him, the chat application is developed in a way the consumer knows the individual on the other side.

Van Rensburg said, “It is encrypted, just like WhatsApp is encrypted end to end. The way that the authentication is done, if you get a new phone, and you want to install a new WhatsApp application, then you have to go through authentication process. So there is inherent security built into chat applications. So it would be more natural, it is secure”. They don’t have to think about password and where to store the password, and how many times they have to change password because it’s built into the system. We were the first company in the world that started loans on chat banking on WhatsApp in the world. So Whatsapp is a long term partner for us and we have a long relationship with WhatsApp”.
The CCO thereafter assured that the company will continue to work with Nigerian banks, telecom companies while reiterating its focus on the commerce part of chat commerce.

Inclusive Government: Makinde appoints opposition as aides

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September 13, 2019

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The Oyo State Governor, Engr. Seyi Makinde, has appointed two opposition candidates as officials in his cabinet.

On Thursday, Mr Makinde approved the appointment of the governorship candidate of the Social Democratic Party (SDP), Bolaji Ayorinde, as Special Counsel to the Governor of Oyo State.

Also, a chieftain of the African Democratic Congress (ADC) and candidate of the party for the Akinyele/Lagelu Federal Constituency in the February 23 House of Representatives election, Yemi Aderibigbe, was appointed as Senior Special Assistant to the Governor on Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs.

The appointments were contained in a statement signed by the Chief Press Secretary to the Governor, Taiwo Adisa.

Additionally, Wale Onaolapo was appointed as the chairman of the Oyo State Security Trust Fund.

A former Principal Protocol Officer of the University of Ibadan, Gboyega Badejo, was appointed as the Director-General (Protocol) to the Governor.

Rotary International and Alliance for Smile Inc. USA donates Dental X-Ray Machine to LASUTH

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September 13, 2019

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The Lagos State University Teaching Hospital has received an Orthopantomogram (OPG) Dental X-RAY Machine from Rotary International District 9110 and Alliance for Smile Inc. USA as one of the need assessment detected from prior visitations and teaching missions. The OPG Dental X-Ray is a specialized health imaging service machine used to produce images during an OPG examination

According to Dr. Shoga, from these visits mentioned above, it was suggested that there should be a treatment centre that will take care of every aspect of cleft/lip and palate surgery. He explained further that Nigeria’s case was put forward and during their last visit in march2019, there was a discussion with Dr. Victor Osho that there is need for other equipment which required more funds. It was then agreed that the machine can be used for other patients for a fee but the cleft/lip and palate patients would benefit without charges.

While appreciating the team from Rotary District 9110 in partnership with Alliance for Smile Inc. USA, the Chief Medical Director, Prof. Adetokunbo O. Fabamwo says the hospital management is delighted this is happening and he is happy that this kind of collaboration is happening, as the government cannot do everything. The CMD thanked Dr. Shoga and his team for initiation. He also expressed his profound gratitude towards the governor of Rotary Club, District 9110; Dr. Jide Akeredolu for the handing over of the equipment officially and mentioned that the machine was right on time, as the department is expecting accreditation visit soon. He wished him a successful tenure and asked for further collaboration in favour of LASUTH while in office.

The Head of Dental Department, Dr. Victor Osho, explained that the machine is 3D enabled (Software, Monitor & CPU) and it is to facilitate the management & treatment of patient with Cleft/Lip & Palate deformity. She also reiterated that the machine can also be beneficial to other patients with dental problems like malocclusion and maxillofacial surgery; also, it can be used for hand and wrist.

Present at the donation were, Director Clinical Services & Training, Dr. Ibrahim Mustafa; Director of Hospital Administration & Human Resources, Mrs. Olatokunbo Adio; Assistant Director Nursing Services, Mrs. Temitope Sikaiye; Dean of Dental, Prof. A Olaitan; Assistant Director Nursing Services, Mrs. Akanbi.

Prof Fabamwo bags Award of Excellence at LASUCOM Faculty of Dentistry Anniversary

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September 12, 2019

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Presentation — Professor John Obafunwa presenting the award to Professor Adetokunbo Fabamwo at the event

The Faculty of Dentistry, Lagos State University College of Medicine (LASUCOM) presented an award of excellence to the Chief Medical Director of Lagos State University Teaching Hospital (LASUTH), Prof Adetokunbo O. Fabamwo, during her 2^nd Biennial Faculty Day Lecture and the 10^th year Anniversary.

While commenting on the history of the Faculty of Dentistry, Prof Fabamwo who was a former Dean, Faculty of Clinical Sciences, of College of Medicine said the he was aware of the struggles of the faculty during its establishment, he referred to dental surgeons as a very special people.

The CMD further pledged his support for the College of Medicine stressing that College of Medicine and Teaching Hospital are inextricably intertwined. “The hospital will continue to cooperate fully with the college, we shall continue to produce a conducive environment for Dentistry Faculty to thrive”, he said.

During his opening remarks, the Vice Chancellor of Lagos State University, Prof Olanrewaju Fagbohun, represented by Prof Olugbenga Awobusuyi said that 10 years of existence is a significant landmark for any faculty as he congratulated the faculty.

In giving an insight into the history of the faculty, the former Provost of the College, and the former Vice Chancellor of LASUTH, Prof John Obafunwa stated that various committees were constituted to identify various needs of establishing a dentistry faculty.

Awards were presented to dignitaries who have contributed immensely to making the faculty a success. Some of the dignitaries include the Vice Chancellor of LASU, Prof Fagbohun; the Acting Provost of LASUCOM, Prof Anthonia Ogbera; CMD of LASUTH, Prof Adetokunbo O. Fabamwo; VC of LASU, Prof John Obafunwa and many others.

Xenophobic Attacks: Abike Dabiri-Erewa receives 187 Nigerians from South Africa

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September 12, 2019

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The Chairman/CEO of the Nigerians in Diaspora Commission, Hon. Abike Dabiri-Erewa led officials to receive the 187 Nigerian Returnees from South Africa. The Returnees arrived at about 9.35 pm on Wednesday, September 11, on-board an Air Peace flight.

According to Gabriel Odu of the Communications Unit of the Commission, Hon Erewa commended the Management of Air Peace for the kind gesture. A total of 187 Nigerians were evacuated , amongst whom over 30 were children. Meanwhile, about 317 were initially billed to return on the flight which experienced over 15 hours delay by the South African authorities.

The development follows a directive from President Muhammadu Buhari to evacuate Nigerians in South Africa willing to return home due to renewed xenophobic uprisings. The President gave the order after receiving the report of the special envoy whom he dispatched to South Africa over xenophobic attacks.

Hon Dabiri-Erewa told the Returnees that apart from transport stipend to convey them to their various destinations, for ease of communication, they are to receive SIM cards with N40,000 Naira worth of air time, plus 9GB of data valid for 2 months as well as a soft loan from the Bank of Industry to support those interested in small trade and businesses. A program ot reintegration will also be put in place subsequently. Meanwhile, Officials of the bank of industry were also on hand to brief them.

The Nigerian Returnees with joy and excitement at the reception they received on their return home, they all got up to render the National Anthem thanking President Buhari, the Chairman of Air Peace as well as the Consul General in South Africa and the High Commission in Pretoria for their efforts in ensuring a successful return home to Nigeria.

The Chairman of Nigerians in Diaspora Commission Hon Abike Dabiri-Erewa therefore urged other Nigerians in South South to remain peaceful and good Ambassadors as Federal Government is making firmer strategies for their safety and security in that country.

Meanwhile, arrangements for airlift of Second Batch of Nigerians from South Africa are underway.

Pfizer’s Pneumococcal Vaccine Shows Potential in Infants

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September 12, 2019

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PFE announced encouraging data from a phase II study evaluating its 20-valent pneumococcal conjugate vaccine (20vPnC) candidate, PF-06482077, in healthy infants.

The proof-of-concept phase II study is a four-dose series evaluating the safety and immunogenicity of PF-06482077 for the prevention of invasive disease and otitis media in healthy infants caused by Streptococcus pneumoniae serotypes contained in the vaccine. Preliminary data from the initial three doses of PF-06482077 in infants demonstrated a similar safety profile to Pfizer’s blockbuster 13-valent pneumococcal conjugate vaccine, Prevnar 13.

Please note that the company’s 20vPnC candidate includes all the 13 serotypes contained in Prevnar 13 along with seven additional serotypes. Data from the phase II study showed that the candidate led to immune responses for all 20 serotypes.

The company stated that the findings are encouraging enough to support PF-06482077’s development in infants to late stage. It will start discussions with regulatory authorities for initiating a phase III study in infants following the availability of data on the fourth dose.

Pfizer is also developing PF-06482077 in adult patients. Concurrently with this press release, it announced that enrollment in three phase III studies evaluating the candidate in adult patients has been completed. The studies are evaluating the candidate in adult patients as a preventive treatment for invasive disease and pneumonia caused by Streptococcus pneumoniae serotypes The company plans to submit a biologics license application seeking approval of the candidate in adults by the end of 2020, following the successful completion of late-stage studies.

PF-06482077 was granted Breakthrough Therapy designation as a vaccine for adults in 2018. It also enjoys Fast Track designation.

Pfizer’s shares have declined 15.7% so far this year compared with the industry decrease of 0.6%.

culled from Yahoo News

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Taiwo Afolabi Maritime Conference holds tomorrow

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September 12, 2019

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The Taiwo Afolabi Maritime Conference, an annual industry event in Nigeria has been slated for September 13 and will focus on how the country’s maritime industry can leverage on innovation and practical reforms to take the next leap.

Olasupo Shasore, a senior Nigeria lawyer and former attorney general and commissioner of justice, Lagos State, and a partner at African Law Practice, will deliver the keynote address at the event, which will take place at the JF Ade Ajayi Auditorium, University of Lagos.

The conference, held in honour of Taiwo Afolabi, group executive vice-chairman, SIFAX Group, is an initiative of the Maritime Forum, University of Lagos and SIFAX Group.

Shasore will lead other eminent maritime industry leaders, legal experts, academics and university students drawn from about ten institutions to discuss on the theme “Innovations and Practical Reforms Towards Sustainable Growth in Nigeria’s Maritime Sector”.

Other discussants expected at the event include Henry Ajetunmobi, vice president, Nigerian Ports Consultative Council; Adetola Bucknor Taiwo, partner, Paul Usoro & Co., Rollens McFoy, executive eirector, operations, Oceandeep Services; Olayiwola Shittu, former president, Association of Nigeria Licensed Customs Agents; Hassan Bello, executive secretary/CEO, Nigeria Shippers’ Council; Hadiza Bala Usman, managing director, Nigerian Ports Authority, among others.

While speaking on the forthcoming event, Afolabi said the need to deepen discourse around topical issues in the country’s maritime industry, as well as proffering practical solutions to them gave birth to the conference.

He said: “The fourth edition of the conference would dwell on issues bordering on innovations and practical reforms needed towards the sustainability of growth in the country’s maritime sector. We are at a point where the country’s maritime sector needs a consistent and sustained growth. To achieve this, we need to invest in innovations and more reforms. The sector’s reform in 2006 which gave birth to the concessioning of the port has yielded great gains for Nigeria. In fact, the concessioning has served as a model for many other African countries. Now that we have seen the fruits of concessioning, we need to embark on more aggressive reforms and innovations that will make the maritime sector the major earner for the government.

“Distinguished experts have been invited as speakers to provide practical insights into various innovations and reforms we can embark on to achieve the maritime sector of our dreams. I look forward to the useful insights based on years of industry experience that they will bring to the conference. I am convinced that such insights would be useful to the industry, the government and participants.”

On his own part, Gbenga Akinlade, president, Maritime Forum, said the conference would be beneficial both to the industry and the students due to its objective of being an avenue to stimulate intellectual discussions between maritime experts and the university community, especially students with interest in the maritime industry, on contemporary issues in the industry, both locally and internationally. He further explained that the conference has launched a dedicated website where relevant information about the conference are available.

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