TheNewsGuru

Tag: Holiday

  • Those criticising Tinubu for holidaying abroad uninformed – Okupe

    Those criticising Tinubu for holidaying abroad uninformed – Okupe

    A former Presidential spokesperson, Dr Doyin Okupe, says Nigerians criticising President Bola Tinubu’s trip to the United Kingdom for a two-week holiday are uninformed.

    Okupe expressed the view in an interview with NAN on Thursday in Lagos.

    He spoke against the backdrop of criticisms  of the President  travelling abroad for vacation instead of staying in the country.

    The former Director-General of Peter Obi’s Presidential Campaign said : “I have read many uninformed criticisms of the President’s holiday trip abroad.

    “Personally, from my understanding of how Presidents behave in periods of national crisis, I believe the President has willfully separated himself from officials, friends and associates to reflect and review the last 17 months and chart a new way forward for his administration.

    “At the same time, it is to carefully avoid undue interference from political associates, in his thought process to rejig his cabinet.

    “Staying anywhere in Nigeria definitely will not afford him such peaceful and serene atmosphere to achieve his objective,”

    He expressed belief that President’s return after “this retreat” would signal good tidings for the people of Nigeria and bring about the much needed comfort and succor for our teeming masses.

    NAN recalls that Tinubu departed Abuja on Oct. 2 for the United Kingdom to begin a two-week vacation.

    A statement by Mr Bayo Onanuga, Special Adviser to the President, Information and Strategy, said the President would use the two weeks as a working vacation and a retreat to reflect on his administration’s economic reforms.

    It is the first time President Tinubu will go on leave since he assumed office in May 2023, though he had embarked on several foreign trips between then and now.

  • C’River govt. approves 14 days Xmas holiday for workers

    C’River govt. approves 14 days Xmas holiday for workers

    Gov. Bassey Otu of Cross River has approved 14 days Christmas holiday for all civil servants in the state effective from December 20.

    This is contained in a statement by his Chief Press Secretary, Mr Emmanuel Ogbeche, and made available to newsmen in Calabar on Wednesday.

    The statement however, said that those on essential services were exempted from this holiday.

    In the statement titled “Extended Holiday for Civil Servants”, Otu commended the workers for their commitment and hardwork.

    The governor enjoined the workers to use the opportunity to spend quality time with their families and also be actively involved in the annual Calabar carnival.

    He reiterated the commitment of his administration to provide quality and conducive environment for all citizens and residents of the state, while wishing them a Merry Christmas and a Prosperous New Year.

    The workers are expected back at their duty posts on Jan. 3, 2024.

  • Thrill Seeker’s Paradise: Top Winter Sports Destinations in Finland

    Thrill Seeker’s Paradise: Top Winter Sports Destinations in Finland

    Finland, a land of enchanting landscapes and winter wonder, beckons adrenaline enthusiasts with a plethora of heart-pounding winter sports. From skiing down pristine slopes to scaling icy cliffs, this Nordic haven offers an array of activities that cater to the adventurous spirit. For those seeking an adrenaline fix amidst stunning natural surroundings, Finland travel packages and Finland city breaks present an ideal opportunity. In this article, we unveil the top winter sports destinations in Finland, each offering its own unique blend of excitement and breathtaking beauty, complemented by relevant statistics and research findings.

    Ruka-Kuusamo: A Winter Playground Ruka-Kuusamo, nestled in the heart of Finland’s Lapland region, is a winter playground that caters to all manner of thrill seekers. With an average of 400,000 visitors each winter season, it’s a popular destination for winter sports enthusiasts. Finland travel packages often include this gem, allowing visitors to experience everything from downhill skiing to snowboarding, cross-country skiing, and even snowmobiling. Research findings suggest a consistent rise in winter tourism to this region, with a 15% increase in visits over the past three years. Engage in heart-pounding activities during the day and unwind beneath the Northern Lights in the evenings.

    Levi: Where Adventure Awaits

    Levi, another Lapland gem, offers an adventure-packed winter sports experience that caters to both beginners and seasoned enthusiasts. This resort town boasts over 230,000 annual visitors, reflecting its popularity among those seeking an adrenaline rush. Finland travel packages often include Levi due to its diverse offerings, including skiing, snowshoeing, ice-fishing, and even husky sledding. Research findings indicate that Levi has seen a steady growth in winter tourism, with a 10% increase in international visitors over the last two years. Experience the thrill of night skiing under the Arctic sky and embrace the magic of the polar night.

    Ylläs: A Haven for Snow Lovers

    Ylläs, a winter wonderland set against a backdrop of pristine forests and glistening snow, is a haven for snow enthusiasts. With over 330,000 visitors annually, it’s clear that Ylläs holds a special place in the hearts of winter sports aficionados. Finland travel packages often include Ylläs due to its extensive network of cross-country skiing trails and alpine slopes. Research findings suggest a consistent demand for Ylläs experiences, with a 20% increase in bookings for snow-based activities over the past

    three years. Engage in exhilarating snowboarding, or snowshoeing, or explore the Arctic wilderness by snowmobile.

    Pyhä-Luosto: An Arctic Adventure

    Pyhä-Luosto, nestled within the Pyhä-Luosto National Park, offers an Arctic adventure that’s both invigorating and awe-inspiring. With approximately 150,000 annual visitors, this destination’s popularity is on the rise. Finland travel packages often feature Pyhä-Luosto, allowing visitors to experience ice-climbing, snowshoeing, and even ice fishing. Research findings indicate a growing interest in Pyhä-Luosto’s winter offerings, with a 10% increase in winter tourists over the last two years. Scale frozen waterfalls, traverse snowy landscapes, and witness the beauty of the Northern Lights dancing above.

    Tahko: Alpine Thrills and Frozen Lakes

    Tahko, located in the Lakeland region, offers a unique blend of alpine thrills and frozen lake adventures. This picturesque destination attracts around 250,000 visitors annually, signifying its appeal to winter sports enthusiasts. Finland travel packages often include Tahko due to its diverse offerings, from skiing and snowboarding to ice-skating and ice-karting on frozen lakes. Research findings suggest a steady interest in Tahko, with a 15% increase in winter tourism over the past three years. Immerse yourself in the beauty of the Finnish winter landscape while experiencing the rush of high-speed activities.

    Vuokatti: Where Snow and Sport Converge

    Vuokatti, known for its excellent snow conditions and comprehensive sports facilities, is a hub for winter athletes of all levels. With over 200,000 annual visitors, it’s clear that Vuokatti’s charm extends beyond its borders. Finland travel packages often include Vuokatti due to its extensive range of activities, including skiing, snowboarding, ice-skating, and even biathlon training. Research findings indicate a growing trend in winter tourism to Vuokatti, with a 10% increase in international visitors over the past two years. Engage in adrenaline-pumping activities during the day and unwind at spa resorts in the evenings.

    Ounasvaara: Arctic Adventures and Aurora Quests

    Ounasvaara, situated in Rovaniemi, the official hometown of Santa Claus, offers Arctic adventures intertwined with the quest to witness the Northern Lights. This destination sees around 300,000 visitors annually, showcasing its allure for those seeking a winter adrenaline rush. Finland travel packages often include Ounasvaara due to its mix of skiing, snowboarding, and the promise of catching the awe-inspiring Northern Lights. Research findings suggest a steady interest in Ounasvaara’s winter offerings, with a 15% increase in tourists over the past three years.

    Rovaniemi: Arctic Playground and Santa’s Home

    Rovaniemi, the capital of Finnish Lapland and famously known as the official hometown of Santa Claus, is an Arctic playground that offers winter sports enthusiasts a unique blend of adventure and holiday magic. With an annual influx of around 500,000 visitors, Rovaniemi’s popularity is evident in its appeal to families and adventurers alike. Finland travel packages often include Rovaniemi due to its diverse offerings, from snowboarding and skiing to snowmobiling and reindeer sleigh rides. Research findings indicate a consistent rise in winter tourism to Rovaniemi, with a 10% increase in visitors over the past three years. Immerse yourself in the thrill of winter sports during the day and delight in enchanting Northern Lights quests by night, creating cherished memories for all ages.

    Salla: A Wilderness Haven for Extreme Sports

    Salla, situated near the Russian border, offers extreme sports enthusiasts a wilderness haven for embracing the winter’s raw beauty. With an annual visitor count of approximately 50,000, Salla’s allure lies in its off-the-beaten-path appeal for adventure seekers. Finland travel packages often feature Salla, catering to those who crave snowboarding, snowkiting, and ice climbing in untamed surroundings. Research findings suggest a growing trend in winter tourism to Salla, with a 10% increase in the number of visitors over the past two years. Engage in adrenaline-pumping activities amidst vast snowy landscapes and savour the pristine wilderness that defines Salla’s charm.

    Koli National Park: Nordic Skiing and Breathtaking Views

    Koli National Park, located in eastern Finland, offers Nordic skiing enthusiasts a breathtaking winter sports experience amid stunning landscapes. With around 100,000 visitors annually, Koli is a destination of choice for those seeking cross-country skiing adventures. Finland travel packages often include Koli due to its serene beauty and well-maintained ski trails that wind through snowy forests and offer panoramic views over frozen lakes. Research findings suggest a steady interest in Koli’s winter offerings, with a 15% increase in visitors over the past three years. Traverse the trails of Koli National Park, relishing the harmony between physical activity and the splendour of the natural world.

    Conclusion

    Finland’s winter sports destinations are a testament to the country’s commitment to providing exhilarating adventures against the backdrop of stunning Arctic landscapes. The statistics and research findings underscore the global appeal of these destinations, demonstrating the enduring popularity of Finland’s winter sports offerings. Whether you’re conquering untamed slopes in Salla, embracing the Arctic

    magic of Rovaniemi, or Nordic skiing through Koli’s picturesque trails, each winter sports destination offers a unique blend of excitement and natural beauty.

    As you navigate the snowy terrains and engage in adrenaline-pumping activities, you become an integral part of Finland’s winter narrative, where the thrill of adventure harmonizes with the serenity of the landscape. Choose from a variety of Finland travel packages and city breaks that align with your winter sports preferences, and embark on an unforgettable journey that invigorates the spirit and renews your connection with nature’s wonders.

  • “We mean well for Nigerians” – Senate President Akpabio

    “We mean well for Nigerians” – Senate President Akpabio

    The President of the Nigerian Senate, Godswill Akpabio, inadvertently stirred a controversy after a gaffe he made during a live-streamed plenary session went viral.

    Akpabio’s statement, in which he revealed the allocation of money to senators for their recess, ignited a wave of criticism and accusations.

    In the video clip, Akpabio while concluding the screening and confirmation of President Bola Tinubu’s ministerial nominees revealed that money has been sent to senators to ‘enjoy’ their recess which he termed a “holiday”, before adjourning plenary to 26th September.

    The Senate President’s comments about senators receiving money to “enjoy” their recess, which he referred to as a “holiday,” raised eyebrows and triggered a flurry of reactions.

    TheNewsGuru.com (TNG) reports that traditionally held between late July and mid-September, the recess for legislators serves as a vital period for lawmakers to engage with constituents and remain visible within their local communities.

    However, Akpabio’s comments painted the recess as a leisure period rather than official engagements, sparking debate about senators’ priorities and obligations.

    “In order to enable all of us to enjoy our holidays, a token has been sent to our various accounts by the Clerk of the National Assembly,” he said before his colleagues promptly reminded him that the session was being live-streamed, leading him to retract his statement.

    In his revised words, however, Akpabio maintained that the recess was a holiday: “I withdraw that statement. In order to allow you to enjoy your holiday, the senate president has sent prayers to your mailboxes to assist you to go on a safe journey and return”.

    About a week earlier, during the resumption of the ministerial screening with the candidate from Edo State Abubakar Momoh, the Senate President had assured that the legislatures meant well for Nigerians.

    “Momoh, you’re the first person that we’re screening today. We want to appeal to you that when you go there, do not be a different person. You’ve been here and you know everything about this place, and you know that we mean well for Nigerians.

    “Don’t go there and close your door and then you don’t relate with the legislature. You only come here when it is time for budgets. I don’t know whether you understand the point. You have to work collaboratively with us,” Akpabio said.

    Many Nigerians have criticised the lawmakers for prioritising personal interests over national welfare, particularly amid economic challenges and rising poverty rates.

    While the amount sent to the senators remains unknown, this newspaper reports that the remuneration package approved by the Revenue Mobilisation, Allocation and Fiscal Commission (RMARC) does not include a designated “holiday” allowance or token provision.

    However, lawmakers receive a recess allowance, equivalent to 10 per cent of their annual basic salary, once a year.

    A former senator from Kaduna state Shehu Sani, who served from 2015 to 2019, confirmed that the crediting of legislators’ accounts has been a longstanding practice, but typically occurs discreetly.

    “Crediting the legislators’ accounts are done under the mute button, the uncommon senate president mistakenly pressed the alarm,” Sani said in a tweet on Wednesday.

    Veteran Nollywood actress Kate Henshaw also noted that the only ‘prayers’ going into the ‘mailboxes’ of poor Nigerians are more taxes and burdens.

    “The only “prayers” going into the “mail” of Nigerians is more taxes, more burdens…Happy holidays to the ones meant to serve & bring succour to their constituents,” she said.

    Meanwhile, the Socio-Economic Rights and Accountability Project (SERAP), has threatened to sue Akpabio, over his alleged payment of holiday allowances.

    “We’re suing the Senate President Godswill Akpabio over the alleged payments of ‘holiday allowances’ by the Clerk of the National Assembly into the ‘various accounts’ of senators while some 137 million poor Nigerians face severe economic hardship,” SERAP disclosed.

    Similarly, a political activist and former Deputy National Publicity Secretary of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Timi Frank, called for Akpabio’s immediate resignation.

    He said: “I’m making it bold and very clear that Senator God’swill Akpabio must immediately resign as the Senate President. He cannot continue to make mockery of our democracy and make mockery of Nigerians.

    “Akpabio has shown that since the inception of the Nigerian Senate, this is the most corrupt Senate President ever Nigerians have witnessed”.

  • BREAKING: FG declares June 12 public holiday

    BREAKING: FG declares June 12 public holiday

    The Federal Government has declared Monday, June 12, 2023 Public holiday in commemoration of this year’s Democracy Day celebration.

    TheNewsGuru.com, (TNG) reports this was contained in a statement signed by the Permanent Secretary, Dr Oluwatoyin Akinlade who made the declaration on behalf of the Federal Government.

    He congratulated all Nigerians on this occasion.

    Nigeria’s democratic journey has, like in many other climes, encountered both stormy and smooth sails, but the ship of State, its institutions and most importantly, the Nigerian people have remained steadfast on the tenets of democratic governance.

    On this memorable occasion therefore, Nigerians and friends of Nigeria are invited to appreciate the progress that has been made, celebrate the milestones covered and look forward to a better future for the country’s democracy.

    The Permanent Secretary wishes all Nigerians a Happy Democracy Day celebration.

    Signed:
    Dr Oluwatoyin Akinlade
    Permanent Secretary
    June 8, 2023

  • BREAKING: FG declares Monday public holiday to celebrate incoming govt

    BREAKING: FG declares Monday public holiday to celebrate incoming govt

    The Federal Government of Nigeria has declared Monday 29th, 2023, work free for all workers in the country, to commemorate the inauguration of the nation’s 16th democratically elected President.

    TheNewsGuru.com, (TNG) reports the declaration was made by the Minister of Interior, Ogbeni Rauf Aregbesola, in Abuja on Thursday on behalf of the Federal Government.

    The Minister felicitates with all Nigerians on the momentous occasion, commending them for their faith in democracy as expressed in the nationwide election that produced the President and his Deputy being inaugurated and indeed in all elections across the nation.

    He enjoins them to continue to support and promote democracy through adherence to the rule of law and uphold all democratic institutions. ”Democracy anywhere is an unfinished business and the only way it can keep developing and serve its end of being the vehicle to good governance and the welfare of all the people is by adhering to its tenets of rule of law, support for democratic institutions, promotion of free and responsible press and advancement of the frontiers of freedom for all the people”, the Minister said.

    Ogbeni Aregbesola urges Nigerian also to continue to promote ideals of peaceful coexistence and love for our neighbours, noting that we can only practice democracy and enjoy its dividends in a peaceful environment.

    The Minister commends all Nigerians for their strident efforts at achieving an unbroken civilian rule and successful change of governments since 1999. He urges them to support and cooperate with the coming administration, arguing that the unbounded energy of the people is the nation’s greatest strength and will take the nation to its greatest height when it is positively deployed in its service.

    The Minister charges Nigerians to shun any form of violence and other untoward acts, assuring them that with all hands on deck, the future is very bright when the nation will attain greatness in all facets of human development.

  • [BREAKING] May Day celebrations: FG declares May 1st public holiday

    [BREAKING] May Day celebrations: FG declares May 1st public holiday

    The Federal Government has declared Monday, May 1 as Public Holiday to mark this year’s Workers’ Day celebration.

    Dr Shuaib Belgore, Permanent Secretary of Ministry of Interior disclosed this in a statement issued Friday in Abuja stating that the Minister of Interior, Ogbeni Rauf Aregbesola, made the declaration on behalf of the Federal Government.

    The Perm Sec congratulated workers across the country on this year’s celebration, Aregbesola commended workers for their hard work, diligence and sacrifice, noting that their efforts are largely responsible for the greatness of the country and the respect Nigeria now commands in the comity of nations.

    He said; “There is dignity in labour, we have to have dedication and commitment to the work we do because it is vital to nation building”.

    He therefore enjoined workers to imbibe the culture of productivity, saying “the end of work is productivity. It is productivity that leads to satisfactory provision of goods and services and wealth creation. It is therefore the path to national and individual prosperity”.
    The Minister urged workers to raise the bar of their trade in line with the President Muhammadu Buhari led administration’s drive to upgrade the vehicle of governance and make all the people of Nigeria derive maximum benefit from the nation.

    He assured Nigerians that the administration of President Muhammadu Buhari is fully committed to the security of life and property of every citizen and foreigners in the country and will not slowdown in any even as the administration winds down.

    “The Minister commends all security agencies for the successes recorded in the fight against criminals across the country, he encouraged them not to relent but go all out to deter the criminals whenever they raise their heads.

    “He therefore urges Nigerians to be part of the nation’s security architecture by being vigilant and reporting suspicious individuals and activities to law enforcement agencies nearest to them, noting that security is everybody’s responsibility He urges them also to make use of the N-Alert Application on Android and iOS”, the statement added.

  • Just In: FG declares Friday, Monday public holidays for Easter celebrations

    Just In: FG declares Friday, Monday public holidays for Easter celebrations

    The Federal Government has declared Friday 7th and Monday 10th April 2023, which are Good Friday and Easter Monday, to be public holidays to mark this year’s Easter celebrations.

    The Minister of Interior, Rauf Aregbesola, made the declaration in a statement signed by the Permanent Secretary of the ministry, Shuaib Belgore, on Wednesday in Abuja.

    He urged Christians to emulate the virtues of sacrifice, togetherness, forgiveness, kindness, love, peace and patience which were attributes and practices of Jesus Christ, as exemplified by His ministry on the earth.

    The Minister called on Christians and all Nigerians to use the occasion of this year’s Easter celebrations to pray for an end to the security challenges in parts of the country.

    “Security is everybody’s business. I, therefore, urge Nigerians and foreigners resident in our country to display a high sense of citizenship and public spiritedness by supporting the efforts of all security agencies in bringing peace and security of lives and property of the citizenry,” he said.

    The Minister assured that the government was doing all that is necessary to ensure a peaceful transition of government following the peaceful conduct of elections.

  • Again, FG suspends work on Lagos-Ibadan Expressway

    Again, FG suspends work on Lagos-Ibadan Expressway

    The Federal Government on Friday ordered the temporary suspension of construction works on the Lagos-Ibadan Expressway, to make traveling experience easier for holiday makers returning to their destinations after the festive season.

    According to reports, Julius Berger returned to site on Tuesday after leaving in December 2022, to continue construction works between the popular Long Bridge and Kara bus stop on the Lagos-bound carriageway.

    The contractors’ return to site and the resultant gridlock in the axis saw commuters groaning on the highway on Thursday.

    This led the Federal Controller of Works in Lagos State, Mr Umar Bakare, to suspend work and supervise the removal of crash barriers on the highway on the Kara Section on Friday.

    Bakare told newsmen after re-opening Section One of the highway to traffic that the measure was to give opportunity for those returning from the end of year holiday to have a better motoring experience.

    He said that the contractors were able to carry out quick repairs till early hours of Friday before removing the crash barriers in anticipation of huge return journey of holiday makers over the weekend.

    The controller said that the contractors would return to site on Monday, Jan. 9, to continue work, and complete work between Kara and Long Bridge within 20 days.

    He said temporary repairs were done on some sections in December, and the contractors were able to further upgrade work on their short return in January.

    “We understand and realize that there are still a lot of people who are still coming back from their various journeys.

    ”To this extent, we have asked the contractor, after completing that section (Kara), to hold on and remove the barriers to come back next week when we shall come back to complete the other section between Long Bridge and Kara to the final layer,” Bakare said.

    The Controller said the government would make announcements, carry the public along, and always sensitise the public on the progress of work

    He appealed for patience of road users and lane dicipline around construction zones, noting that government was always concerned about their welfare and need for them to have good motoring experiences.

    Bakare said the schedule of government to complete the entire project in March 2023 was still on course.

    Section One of the Lagos-Ibadan Expressway project stretches from Ojota in Lagos State to the Sagamu Interchange.

  • FG Declares Monday, October 3, As Public Holiday

    FG Declares Monday, October 3, As Public Holiday

     

    The Federal Government on Wednesday declared Monday, October 3, 2022, as a public holiday to mark the nation’s 62nd Independence anniversary celebration.

    The Minister of Interior, Rauf Aregbesola, who made the declaration on behalf of the Federal Government, congratulated all Nigerians on this year’s celebration.

    Aregbesola in a statement signed by the Ministry’s Permanent Secretary, Shuaib Belgore, assured of government’s commitment to tackling all the challenges facing the nation and bringing smiles to the faces of all the people, reiterating the eminent position of Nigeria in the comity of nations and the greatness ahead of the country.

    He said “The world is going through dire economic and security challenges which have also affected our nation. However, I am assuring us all that the government will not abandon the people, but will continue to confront all these challenges with all the might at our disposal until respite comes our way.

    “Our warmth, welcoming spirit and love as well as our unbounded human capital and the richness of our land, make Nigeria unarguably the leading black nation in the world and Africa’s pride and beacon of hope. If we can rally ourselves together to harness our potential, we shall be the greatest nation on the earth.