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APWEN Marks World Water Day 2025 with a Call for Glacier Preservation, Sustainable Water Management

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The Association of Professional Women Engineers of Nigeria, APWEN has joined the global community in commemorating World Water Day 2025 with the theme “Glacier Preservation.”

The event, which included a virtual public lecture, underscored the critical need for sustainable water management and proactive measures against climate change.

Delivering the keynote address, Engr. Dr. Adebisi R. Osim, FNSE, FNICE, FIMC, President of APWEN, emphasized the urgent responsibility to protect Earth’s natural water reservoirs—glaciers.

She highlighted the crucial role glaciers play in providing freshwater, supporting agriculture, and regulating global temperatures. However, their rapid decline due to climate change poses a significant threat to water security, food production, and ecosystems.

“Glaciers are the water towers of the world, supplying fresh water to millions of people,” Dr. Osim stated. “Yet, climate change is accelerating their decline, leading to rising sea levels, unpredictable weather, and water scarcity.”

She called on engineers, policymakers, and communities to adopt sustainable practices, reduce water waste, and invest in water-saving technologies to mitigate these challenges.

For her part, the chairman of the APWEN Lagos chapter, Engr. (Dr.) Atinuke Wurola Owolabi, FNSE, FNIEEE, while welcoming participants, reiterated the importance of collective action in ensuring equitable access to clean water.

“Water is life, and we must prioritize innovative strategies to conserve and manage this vital resource,” she urged. “Sustainability is a shared responsibility, and engineers have a key role in implementing long-term solutions.”

The event featured a presentation by Engr. Sunday Egbiki, Chairman of the Nigerian Society of Engineers (NSE) Calgary, Canada branch, who discussed the impact of climate change on water resources.

He highlighted rising global temperatures, frequent droughts, floods, and the disappearance of glaciers as key concerns affecting water security worldwide.

According to Engr. Egbiki, the key community strategies for water conservation include:
Education & Awareness: Public campaigns, school workshops, and behavior change initiatives to reduce water waste.
Local Water Management: Rainwater harvesting, greywater reuse, and watershed protection.
Green Infrastructure: Development of permeable pavements, urban forests, and flood-control wetlands.
Policy & Governance: Encouraging local participation in water governance and collaborative decision-making.
Call to Action: Establishing local water stewardship groups, advocating for climate-resilient policies, and practicing daily water-saving habits.

APWEN reaffirmed its commitment to promoting water conservation, supporting women in STEM, and contributing to policies that safeguard environmental sustainability.

The event successfully reinforced the urgency of climate action, leaving participants with a renewed commitment to water conservation and sustainable development.

FY 2024: Fidelity Bank records a 210.0% growth in PBT to 385.2 Billion Naira

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blacktalker
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FIDELITY BANK

…Declares a total dividend of N2.10 per share

Lagos, Nigeria, March 29, 2025: Leading financial institution, Fidelity Bank Plc, released its 2024 full-year Audited Financial Statements, reporting a 210% growth in Profit Before Tax to N385.2 billion.

According to the Bank’s results released on the Nigerian Exchange (NGX) on Friday, 28 March 2025, Gross Earnings increased by 87.7% to N1,043.4bn, driven by 106.9% growth in interest and similar income to N950.6bn. The increase in Interest Income was led by a combination of improved yield on earnings assets and 51.6% expansion in earnings base to N6.3tn. This led to a Profit After Tax of N278.1 billion, representing a 179.6% annual growth.

Commenting on the results, Dr. Nneka Onyeali-Ikpe,OON, Managing Director/Chief Executive Officer, Fidelity Bank Plc said, “We are delighted with our 2024 full-year (FY) performance, which showed strong growth across key revenue lines, improved asset quality, and significant traction in our strategic business segments. Our impressive results led to a triple-digit increase (210.0%) in Profit Before Tax (PBT), rising from N124.3bn in 2023 to N385.2bn in 2024.”

A further review of the financial performance revealed that the bank’s net interest income increased by 127.1% to N629.8 billion, driven by a high-yield environment in 2024. To optimize its margin, the bank sustained its asset yields above funding cost by maintaining a high low-cost deposit profile at 92.6%. This led to an increase in its Net Interest Margin from 8.1% in 2023 FY to 12.0%.

Similarly, the bank continued to deepen its market share in both the corporate and retail segments, with customer deposits increasing by 47.9% from N4.0trn in 2023FY to N5.9trn. The increase was driven by strong double-digit growth across all deposit types.

The Retail Banking Business gained significant traction with savings deposits increasing by 28.8% to N1.1trn, marking the 10th consecutive year of double-digit annual growth in savings deposits.

Despite the difficult economic terrain in 2024, the bank has continued to support the real sector of the economy by increasing its Net Loans & Advances from N3.1tn in 2023FY to N4.4tn in 2024FY.

“This remarkable performance demonstrates our capacity to deliver superior returns to our shareholders. In line with our commitment to them, we have declared a final dividend of N1.25 per share, bringing our total dividend for the 2024 financial year to N2.10 per share”, explained Onyeali-Ikpe.

Having consistently paid dividends since 2006, Fidelity Bank will pay investors a total dividend of N2.10 per share for the 2024 financial year, subject to shareholders’ approval at its Annual General Meeting (AGM) on 29 April 2024. The dividend will be paid on 29 April 2025 to shareholders whose names appear on the register of members as of 15 April 2025.

It will be recalled that the bank successfully completed the first phase of its capital raising exercise through a Public Offer and Rights Issue in 2024, which were oversubscribed by 237.92% and 137.73%, respectively. The positive result is a testament to the strength of the Bank’s franchise in the capital market.

A total of N175.9bn was recognized as fresh capital in 2024 financial year from the exercise, which had a positive impact on its Capital Adequacy Ratio (CAR) at 23.5%. The bank plans to conclude the second phase by Q3 2025, ahead of the Central Bank of Nigeria’s deadline, which will further strengthen its capital base and reaffirm its attainment of Tier 1 Bank status in the Nigerian Banking Industry.

Fidelity Bank Plc is a full-fledged commercial bank with over 9.1 million customers who are serviced across its 251 business offices and various digital banking channels in Nigeria and the United Kingdom.

The Bank is the recipient of multiple local and international Awards, including the 2024 Excellence in Digital Transformation & MSME Banking Award by BusinessDay Banks and Financial Institutions (BAFI) Awards; the 2024 Most Innovative Mobile Banking Application award for its Fidelity Mobile App by Global Business Outlook, and the 2024 Most Innovative Investment Banking Service Provider award by Global Brands Magazine.

Additionally, the Bank was recognized as the Best Bank for SMEs in Nigeria by the Euromoney Awards for Excellence and as the Export Financing Bank of the Year by the BusinessDay Banks and Financial Institutions (BAFI) Awards.

Pastor Bayo Adeyinka Secures Freedom for Eight Inmates, Donates Medical Supplies to Mark 50th Birthday

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blacktalker
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Fourth from left, Deputy Controller of Corrections (DCC) in charge of the Medium Security Custodial Centre in Ikoyi, Julius Ogueri; fifth from left, Author, Banker, and Pastor, Bayo Adeyinka (@Greaterbayo); flanked by family, friends and officers of the custodial center during a prison outreach facilitated by Adeyinka in commemoration of his 50th birthday recently.

In a remarkable act of compassion, eight inmates at the Ikoyi Correctional Center, Lagos have regained their freedom after author, banker, and pastor, Bayo Adeyinka paid their fines as part of a prison outreach to commemorate his 50th birthday.  

At a brief event held at the correctional center’s, catholic chapel on Saturday, 29 March 2024, Adeyinka, popularly known as “Greater Bayo” online, told a crowd of inmates, Nigerian Correctional Services (NCS) officials, friends and family, that the outreach was borne out of the need to facilitate freedom of inmates in line with biblical injunctions.

“According to the bible, every 50th year is known as the “Year of Jubilee” which means freedom. It is therefore my honour to be able to facilitate the freedom of eight of our brothers here today through the payment of fines in commemoration of my 50th birthday anniversary. I recently launched two books and I pledged that all the proceeds from the book sales as well as gifts and donations at my birthday celebration will go towards this project”, explained Bayo Adeyinka who goes by the name Greater Bayo on online media platforms.

Beyond securing the inmates’ release, Adeyinka donated essential medical supplies—including antibiotics, anti-malarial drugs, painkillers, blood boosters, and syringes—to the facility’s clinic. He also provided sanitary pads for 268 female inmates at the Kirikiri Female Correctional Centre, ensuring they had enough supplies for the rest of the year.  

The gesture drew heartfelt gratitude from both inmates and correctional officers. Before departing, Adeyinka urged the freed individuals to avoid crime and “pay the kindness forward.” He also gave each of them ₦20,000 to cover transportation costs as they returned home.  

The outreach underscores Adeyinka’s commitment to social impact, blending faith, philanthropy, and practical support to uplift those in need.

Wema Bank Releases Audited Results for FY 2024, Commences 150 billion Naira Rights Issue in April 2025

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blacktalker
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Wema Bank Nigeria has released its audited Consolidated Financial Statements for the period ended December 31st, 2024, to the Nigerian Exchange Group (NGX).

Wema Bank reported profit before tax of ₦102.51bn, representing an increase of 135% over the ₦43.59bn recorded in the corresponding period in 2023. The Bank also proposed a dividend of N1.00 per share on the back of the impressive result.

The Bank’s Balance sheet remained well structured, diversified and resilient with Total Assets growing by 60% to ₦3,585.05bn in FY 2024 from ₦2,240.06bn in FY 2023. The bank also grew its deposit base year on year by 36% to ₦2,523.82bn from ₦1,860.57bn reported in FY 2023. Loans and Advances grew by 50% to ₦1,201.21bn in FY 2024 from ₦801.10bn in FY, 2023 NPL stood at 3.86% as at end of FY 2024.

The bank recorded improved year on year performance as Gross Earnings grew by 92% to ₦432.34bn (FY 2023: ₦225.75bn). Interest Income was up 92% y/y to ₦353.54bn (FY 2023: ₦184.48bn). Also, Non-Interest Income was up 91% y/y to ₦78.80bn (FY 2023: ₦41.27bn).

Return on Equity (ROAE) of 43.60%, Return on Assets (ROAA) of 2.96%, Capital Adequacy Ratio (CAR) of 19.67% and Cost to Income ratio of 56.23% underscore the commercial bank’s resilience and financial strength.

The Managing Director/CEO of the Bank, Mr. Moruf Oseni stated that the strong 2024 FY performance stems from the commercial bank’s focus on strong strategy execution in the key areas of risk management, customer relationship management and digital banking.

”Our people are committed to the institution’s founding ethos of supporting Nigerian businesses and individuals with the most innovative banking products and services. ALAT our flagship digital platform continues to lead in the adoption of digital banking services across the increasingly young Nigerian populace. An example of this innovation is ALAT XPlore, the first licensed banking App for teenagers designed to help teenagers ages 13-17 build their money management skills, achieve their financial goals and become financially responsible.”

Despite the constrained operating environment, the bank continues to experience strong growth across all its financial indices reflecting the quality and resilience of the workforce. The performance is headlined by impressive improvements in Profit before Tax which grew strongly by 135%.

The growth of Gross Earnings by 92%, Total Assets by 60% and earnings per share at 483.20kobo shows the core improvements to our balance sheet. In addition, our cost-to-income ratio of 56.23% has witnessed significant improvement from the previous period. Finally, it is important to mention that the Bank’s Capital Raise Programme will also commence in April 2025 with a N150bn Rights Issue.

International Zero Waste Day: LAWMA Restates Commitment to Dirt-free Lagos State

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blacktalker
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LAWMA Steps Up Crackdown on Indiscriminate Dumping Across Lagos

…says every Lagosian must play their role

The Lagos Waste Management Authority, LAWMA has reiterated its commitment to achieving zero waste in Lagos State, aligning with global efforts at minimising waste generation and maximising resource recovery.

Commenting on the International Zero Waste Day, themed, “Towards zero waste in fashion and textiles”, the Managing Director/CEO of LAWMA, Dr. Muyiwa Gbadegesin, stated that the event underscored the urgent need for sustainable waste management practices, noting that LAWMA had continued to implement innovative strategies, aimed at reducing landfill dependence, increasing recycling rates, and promoting responsible waste disposal among residents.

He said: “The International Zero Waste Day reminds us of our collective responsibility to protect the environment by adopting sustainable waste management practices. At LAWMA, we are fully committed to implementing policies and programmes that support zero waste principles, including waste sorting, recycling, and waste-to-energy initiatives. However, for these efforts to be successful, every Lagosian must take ownership of their role in ensuring proper waste disposal and environmental responsibility.”

Gbadegesin highlighted some of LAWMA’s key initiatives in its zero-waste efforts, including the expansion of the Lagos Recycle initiative, the promotion of circular economy practices, and enhanced enforcement of environmental laws.

“Over the years, we have intensified our recycling programmes to ensure that a significant portion of waste generated in Lagos is diverted from landfills. Through our partnerships with recycling firms and the implementation of the ‘Adopt-a-Bin’ programme, we are actively encouraging waste sorting and promoting a culture of recycling among households and businesses,” he said.

In line with this year’s theme, Gbadegesin announced that LAWMA would be taking decisive steps to address the environmental impact of textile waste, revealing that textile waste constituted approximately 8% of the 13,000 tonnes of waste generated daily in Lagos.

“LAWMA plans to ban textile waste from all landfills in the state. We will be collaborating with Tejuosho Market in Yaba to collect textile waste for transfer to recycling companies. In addition to that, students at the LAWMA Academy are being trained to upcycle textile waste into practical products, promoting sustainable practices and creating economic opportunities for residents”, he stressed.

The LAWMA boss also disclosed that the Authority had continued to expand its Waste-to-Wealth programs, where organic waste was converted into compost and other useful by-products, stressing that LAWMA would continue to promote waste recycling to ensure that more waste materials are repurposed, thereby creating economic opportunities for residents.

“We have seen remarkable progress in our waste conversion efforts. Organic waste, which forms a significant percentage of our total waste, is being processed into compost for agricultural use. Similarly, our collaborations with the private sector have facilitated the recycling of plastic waste, aluminum cans, and glass materials, further strengthening the circular economy in Lagos,” he added.

Speaking further, he said the Authority’s marine waste team had intensified efforts to clear waste from Lagos’ waterways, with ongoing cleanup operations along the coastline and drainage channels, particularly at Five Cowries Creek and other flood-prone areas.

Reaffirming LAWMA’s zero-tolerance policy on environmental infractions, he urged Lagosians to support the state’s zero-waste vision by complying with waste management laws, embracing recycling, and ensuring proper waste disposal through assigned PSP operators, adding that community participation remained a key factor in sustaining a cleaner and healthier Lagos.

For inquiries, complaints, or further updates, please contact LAWMA through the toll-free numbers: 080000LAWMA (08000052962), 07080601020, and 617, or send an email to info@lawma.gov.ng.

Ogun State Police Command Bolsters Security for Sallah Celebration

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blacktalker
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As Muslims across Nigeria celebrate Eid El-Fitr, the Ogun State Police Command has intensified security measures to ensure a peaceful and safe holiday period.

The Command in a statement by its Police Public Relations Officer, CSP Omolola Odutola, anipr, assured residents and visitors that strategic plans have been put in place to maintain law and order during the festivities.

Recognizing the significance of the celebration, which marks the end of Ramadan, the police have developed a comprehensive operational order to safeguard the public.

The Command also urged citizens to cooperate with law enforcement officers by staying vigilant, report suspicious activities and exercise caution to avoid scams or fraudulent schemes that could target unsuspecting individuals.

”In a bid to enhance security, police officers will conduct stop-and-search operations at designated checkpoints, including Onigarri, Ayetoro, Ijebu-Ode, Sagamu, Long Bridge, Alapako, Ogunmakin, and the Abeokuta area. Divisional Police Officers, under the guidance of Area Commanders, will be actively patrolling their respective jurisdictions to deter criminal activities.

”Border towns will experience heightened surveillance with joint task force operations conducted in collaboration with sister security agencies. This initiative aims to ensure seamless monitoring of movement and prevent potential threats.”

”Given the expected influx of visitors to Ogun State during the festivities, the police have solicited public patience, particularly during security checks. Officers will be stationed at prayer grounds and other strategic locations to prevent attacks and uphold public safety.

”Additionally, specialized units focusing on anti-cultism, anti-kidnapping, and tactical operations will be deployed in tertiary institutions, where students are encouraged to cooperate with security personnel.”

The Ogun State Police Command also urged the public to support these security efforts to enhance overall effectiveness. For emergency assistance, citizens can contact the Command via the following helplines:
09159578888
09062837609
09120141706
09151027369
07084972994
The public can also stay informed through the Command’s social media platforms:
X (Twitter): @OgunPoliceNG
Instagram: Ogunpolice_ng
Facebook: Ogun Command
YouTube: @embracepeace

Commissioner of Police, CP Lanre Ogunlowo PhD, extended warm Sallah wishes to all Muslim faithful, emphasizing the commitment of the Ogun State Police Command to ensuring a peaceful and joyous celebration for all.

Governor Soludo Celebrates Mothers on ‘Mothering’ Day, Appreciates Anambra’s First Lady’s Humanitarian Efforts

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blacktalker
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Governor Charles Soludo has congratulated and appreciated all mothers in Anambra State and across the country on today’s Sunday Mothering Day.

He also commended their relentless dedication, selfless love and irreplaceable contributions to families and society.

According to the Governor’s Chief Press Secretary, Christian Aburime, Soludo described motherhood as the purest form of love and sacrifice, daily extolling mothers’ strength, resilience, and compassion.

Soludo stated that Mothers make up the foundation upon which communities thrive, and it is thus most deserving to honour the extraordinary women who nurture dreams, instill values, and shape the future through their children.

The Governor also acknowledges the exceptional role of the First Lady of Anambra State, Dr. Nonye Soludo, whose humanitarian initiatives continue to transform lives across the state.

He averred that through her dedicated work with children and inspiring Healthy Living Project, she exemplifies the nurturing spirit of motherhood extended beyond family boundaries to embrace all Anambra citizens.

This aligns perfectly with Soludo’s vision of creating a livable and prosperous homeland where every citizen can thrive.

Therefore, the Governor wishes all mothers a joyous celebration of this ‘Mothering Day’ and reaffirms his commitment to supporting policies and programmes that continuously strengthen families and empower women in their vital roles as partners in the state’s development.

JTI Celebrates with Muslim Faithful on Eid al-Fitr

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blacktalker
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Japan Tobacco International Nigeria, JTI a member of JTI Group, extends warm felicitations to the Muslim faithful on the occasion of Eid al-Fitr, marking the successful completion of the holy month of Ramadan.

Thomas Adams, General Manager of JTI Nigeria, expressed his best wishes to Muslims on behalf of the company, emphasizing the importance of prayers for peace, progress, and shared prosperity.

“As we celebrate with our Muslim brothers and sisters, may this Eid usher in a new season of joy and prosperity for Nigeria and Nigerians and strengthen the bonds of unity in our society”. Adams stated.

JTI, the parent company, is a leading tobacco and vaping company headquartered in Geneva, Switzerland, and has been recognized as a Top Global Employer

JMG Felicitates Muslims on Eid el-Fitri, Urges Memorable Celebration

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blacktalker
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JMG Limited, a premier provider of electro-mechanical solutions in Nigeria has celebrated with Muslim Faithful on the occasion of Eid-el-Fitri festival, in commemoration of the successful one-month Ramadan fasting, urging them to remain committed to the tenets of the Islamic religion.

The company also calls on Muslims to have a peaceful celebration and uphold rightness with love and unity to ensure a peaceful festival.

The Group General Manager of JMG Limited, Rabi Jammal, averred that the company identifies with worthy cause that affects Nigerians, and as an electro-mechanical solutions provider, ensures its integrated solutions are utilised for a memorable celebration.

Jammal further admonishes the Islamic believers to avail themselves of the company’s products through the Jamara Home, a subsidiary of JMG Limited, a leading destination for electronics and home appliances in Nigeria, to make the celebration worthwhile. It also offered special sales deals to Muslims during the Ramadan period on its high-quality products.

JMG Limited with solutions that offer unrivaled comfort, safety, and efficiency to the structures where people work and live, has expertise in power generation, electrical infrastructures, vertical transportation, cooling systems, and air compressors.

 In line with its clean energy initiative, the company prioritises sustainable power solutions, offering solar and cost-effective hybrid options, including Lithion inverters and batteries since 2018, as well as Livfast inverters & batteries in 2022.

It expanded its solar power offerings with LONGi solar panels, Deye lithium batteries, and Must solar inverters, in 2024, with alternative power solutions to customers.

By leveraging engineering innovation and renewable energy solutions, JMG continues to support global efforts in achieving SDG 7 (Affordable and Clean Energy) and SDG 11 (Sustainable Cities and Communities), driving the transformation towards a cleaner, more efficient energy future.

For more information on JMG’s solutions, please visit www.jmglimited.com

Rite Foods Limited Celebrates Eid el-Fitr with Muslim Faithful, Reaffirms Commitment to Quality, Nourishment

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Rite Foods Reiterates Commitment to Clean Energy

Rite Foods Limited, Nigeria’s leading food and beverage company has joined Muslims across the country to celebrate Eid el-Fitr, marking the successful completion of the holy month of Ramadan. As a brand committed to refreshment, nourishment, and shared joy, Rite Foods encourages Muslim faithful to rejuvenate and celebrate with its wide range of award-winning products.

Speaking on the significance of the celebration, Seleem Adegunwa, Managing Director/CEO of Rite Foods Limited, urged Muslims to embrace the values of love, unity, and exemplary conduct as they enjoy a peaceful and fulfilling Eid. He encouraged them to reflect on the teachings of Prophet Mohammed (SAW) and continue to uphold the virtues of faith, compassion, and national unity.

“We commend our Muslim brothers and sisters for their devotion throughout Ramadan and encourage them to let the lessons of this sacred period guide their daily lives. As they celebrate, we remain committed to providing quality products that add delight and nourishment to every moment,” Adegunwa stated.

Reaffirming Rite Foods’ dedication to excellence, he highlighted the company’s diverse portfolio of premium products, including 13 refreshing flavours of Bigi Carbonated Soft Drinks, Bigi Premium Table Water, Sosa Fruit Drink, available in five delicious flavours, Fearless Energy Drinks for an extra boost, and Bigi and Rite Sausages, perfect for on-the-go enjoyment.

Ekuma Eze, Head of Corporate Affairs and Sustainability, emphasised that the company, driven by innovation and cutting-edge technology, will continue to cater to the needs of its diverse consumers. ” We are committed to delivering superior quality products that enhance every occasion. Eid el-Fitr is a time of joy, and we are honored to be part of the celebration with our consumers,” he added.

As a brand recognised for quality and excellence in the Fast-Moving Consumer Goods (FMCG) industry, Rite Foods was recently honored as ‘Food Company of the Year’ at the prestigious Independent Awards 2024. The company remains committed to delivering exceptional products that bring people together in celebration, nourishment, and satisfaction. With a commitment to producing quality products, the company continues to set industry standards in the FMCG sector.

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