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UNILAG Law Students Celebrate International Moot Court Triumphs

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blacktalker
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In a momentous achievement, two teams from the Faculty of Law at the University of Lagos, UNILAG, have been honored by the University management for their exceptional performances in two prestigious international moot court competitions. The students’ victories have significantly raised the university’s profile on the global stage.

The teams showcased their legal understanding at the Philip C. Jessup International Law Moot Court Competition and the 31st Willem C. Vis International Commercial Arbitration Moot 2024. Their success was celebrated on Monday, July 29, 2024, at a reception held on the 10th floor of the Senate House, hosted by Vice-Chancellor Professor, Folasade T. Ogunsola, OON, FAS, and her team.

Accompanied by the Dean of the Faculty of Law, Professor Ige Bolodeoku, the triumphant teams shared their experiences with the university management. Oreoluwa Adejumo, Team Lead and President of The Mooting Society recounted their journey to the finals, competing against over 150 universities worldwide after surpassing a challenging pool of more than 700 institutions in the group stages. Adejumo expressed gratitude for the university’s support, stating, “The competitions allowed us to demonstrate our strength and academic prowess, resulting in our winning ‘The King and Spalding Spirit of Jessup Award.'”

The teams were lauded by competition organizers for their camaraderie, academic excellence, and professional conduct. Vice-Chancellor Ogunsola praised the students’ diligence and the quality of education provided by the UNILAG Law Faculty, saying, “Your triumphs are a testament to the Faculty’s dedication to your academic excellence and to your own hard work and determination. Keep it up!”

The UNILAG team for the Philip C. Jessup International Law Moot Court Competition included Adejumo Oreoluwa, Anyama Chimdumebi Henry, Okoli Chukwudifu Jason, Adegunju Oluwatomilade, and Adedayo Michael Alex, all members of the university’s Mooting Society. They emerged as national champions in Nigeria, earning the opportunity to represent the country at the White and Case International Rounds in Washington, D.C., where they received a $1,000 award and the “Flag of Flag,” symbolizing the true spirit of Jessup.

Representing UNILAG at the Willem C. Vis International Commercial Arbitration Moot 2024 were Chidera Okoro, Betty Elikwu, Gloria Alonge, Ifeoluwa Aruwajoye, Oluwatoyin Salami, and Susana Oladejo, all members of the Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR) Society, UNILAG. Their coaching team included Okikenna Osele, Adedoyin Adepetu, Moyinoluwa Adewale, and Muhammad Hayat Faisal.

The Vis team began their journey in September 2023 with the Memorial Writing stage and claimed victory at the 3rd East African Vis Pre-moot in Nairobi, Kenya, in February 2024, defeating Strathmore University in the final. They advanced to the global competition in Vienna, Austria, in March 2024, reaching the Round of 64 and becoming the first West African team to achieve this milestone.

Nigeria Embarks on Agricultural Transformation with Greener Hope National Agricultural Mechanisation Programme, GHAPP

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blacktalker
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In a groundbreaking move to enhance food security and economic development, the Federal Executive Council has approved the Greener Hope National Agricultural Mechanisation Programme, GHAPP. Spearheaded by Origin Tech Group in collaboration with the Ministry of Agriculture and Food Security, GHAPP aims to revolutionize Nigeria’s agricultural sector, boosting productivity and creating sustainable growth.

The GHAPP programme, approved on June 25, 2024, signifies a quantum leap for Agriculture and it aligns with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Executive Order declaring a state of emergency on food security. This programme targets the cultivation of 500,000 hectares of arable land, the adoption of advanced agricultural technologies, and the promotion of agro industrialization, while encouraging youth participation in agriculture.

The programme will establish modern agricultural mechanization service centres and hubs across 37 farming clusters. These centres will be equipped with state-of-the-art machinery provided by Origin Tech Group’s subsidiary, Origin Automobile Works. The programme will leverage technical partnerships from South Korea, Taiwan, and Brazil to produce and supply agricultural machinery and establish enterprise centers nationwide.

A key component of GHAPP is the comprehensive training and support of youths on modern agricultural techniques and equipment. This training will be conducted by the Federal Ministry of Agriculture and Food Security, the Chief of Defence Staff, and the National Security Adviser. Additionally, a digital gateway for tractor hailing and recruitment will be developed in collaboration with the Federal Ministry of Communications.

The programme emphasises modern infrastructure, including high-powered tractors, dozers, sprayers, drones, and large-scale silos. It will also establish equipment centres, data centers, and spare parts shops to ensure efficient management and maintenance. To ensure Sustainable Growth and Development the programme aims to be replicable and sustainable, extending support to smaller farms and involving international partners like Campo Brazil for expertise and assistance.

The programme presents as opportunity for economic and social impact, a significant step in transforming Nigeria’s agricultural sector, addressing the gaps left by previous administrations. By promoting advanced mechanization and capacity building, the programme aims to increase farmers’ wealth, mitigate urban migration, and secure Nigeria’s food future.

For over 25 years, Origin Tech Group has been a leader in providing innovative solutions across various economic sectors, including food systems, automotive, civil engineering, and construction.

LSSTF BOLSTERS RRS FLEET WITH SEVEN GAC SALOON VEHICLES

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blacktalker
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In a significant development aimed at improving security and operational efficiency, the Lagos State Security Trust Fund, LSSTF, has augmented the Rapid Response Squad, RRS, fleet by integrating seven GAC vehicles.

LSSTF explained that this move bolsters the RRS’s capacity to effectively address security challenges and enhance overall response capabilities within Lagos State.

”The addition of these seven GAC vehicles represents a substantial upgrade to the existing RRS fleet. This strategic enhancement is part of the LSSTF’s ongoing commitment to improving public safety through better-equipped and more capable response assets.”

”It is expected that this addition will support the squad in conducting more effective patrols throughout Lagos State, responding more swiftly to incidents and emergencies.”

LSSTF DONATES FOUR MOTORBIKES TO FRSC

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blacktalker
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The Lagos State Security Trust Fund, LSSTF, has donated four motorbikes to the Federal Road Safety Corps, FRSC, to enhance the Corps’ operational efficiency and response time.

In a statement by the LSSTF, the donation is part of the Fund’s ongoing efforts to support and strengthen road safety measures in Lagos State.

It said this donation is expected to bolster the FRSC’s efforts in managing traffic, responding swiftly to accidents, ensuring compliance with road safety rules, and facilitating better coverage of Lagos roads.

ZENITH BANK FINALISES PLANS FOR 290 BILLION NAIRA RIGHTS ISSUE AND PUBLIC OFFER

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blacktalker
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R – L: Executive Director, Zenith Bank Plc, Mr. Louis Odom; Executive Director, Mr. Akin Ogunranti; Managing Director/Chief Executive, Vetiva Advisory Ltd, Mr Chuka Eseka; Group Managing Director/Chief Executive, Zenith Bank Plc, Dame (Dr.) Adaora Umeoji, OON; Group Managing Director, Meristem Securities Ltd, Mr Wole Abegunde; Company Secretary, Mr. Micheal Otu; Executive Director, Stanbic IBTC Capital Limited, Mrs Oyindamola Akinyemi; Executive Director, Mr. Henry Oroh; Executive Director, Mrs. Adobi Nwapa; and Executive Director, Mr. Adamu Lawani during the Zenith Bank Capital Raising Signing Ceremony at the Civic Centre, Victoria Island, Lagos, yesterday.

Zenith Bank Plc is set to raise 290 billion Naira through a combination of a Rights Issue and a Public Offer in compliance with the revised minimum capital requirements for Nigerian commercial banks introduced by the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN).

This announcement was made during the Zenith Bank Rights Issue/Public Offer Signing Ceremony held yesterday, July 29, 2024, at The Civic Centre, Victoria Island, Lagos. This event marks a significant milestone in the bank’s previously announced capital-raising programme, aimed at bolstering its capital base and supporting its growth trajectory across its banking and non-banking subsidiaries.

The Rights Issue offers 5,232,748,964 ordinary shares of 50 Kobo each at N36.00 per share, while the Offer for Subscription presents 2,767,251,036 ordinary shares of 50 Kobo each at N36.50 per share. The Rights Issue affords existing shareholders the opportunity to purchase additional shares in proportion to their current holdings and is being offered on the basis of one new ordinary share for every six existing ordinary shares held as of Wednesday, July 24, 2024. Conversely, the public offer for subscription is open to the general public and aims to attract new investors.

Speaking at the signing ceremony, the Group Managing Director/CEO of Zenith Bank Plc, Dame (Dr.) Adaora Umeoji, OON, expressed enthusiasm about the Rights Issue and Public Offer, stating, “Today, we signed the transaction documents with respect to Zenith Bank’s N290 billion Rights Issue and Public Offer. This is slightly above the N230 billion required for us to meet the CBN’s minimum recapitalisation requirement. We are extremely pleased with the level of enthusiasm we have already seen from our existing shareholders for the Rights Issue. Beyond existing shareholders, incorporating a public offer is crucial to ensure that our customers, who are not yet shareholders, can have the opportunity to join in the ownership of this premium brand.

“In terms of Tier-1 Capital, Zenith Bank has been adjudged by The Banker, Financial Times to be number one in Nigeria and the only Nigerian Bank in the top 600 banks globally. Over the years, we have consistently rewarded our esteemed shareholders. Specifically, in the last five years, we have maintained the record as the highest dividend-paying Bank in Nigeria. In 2023, we set a record as the only Nigerian Bank to pay a dividend of N4 per share.” She added that the proceeds from the capital raise will be channelled towards expanding banking operations across Africa and internationally, investing in technology infrastructure, and supporting working capital on an ongoing basis. She expressed optimism that given Zenith Bank’s track record of profitability and consistency in creating wealth for shareholders, the capital raise will be a resounding success. She assured prospective investors that Zenith Bank will maintain its leadership in dividend payout in the years ahead and encouraged them to invest in value and invest in Zenith Bank.

She also expressed her profound gratitude to the Founder and Chairman, Dr. Jim Ovia CFR, whose vision over 34 years ago laid the foundation for a reputable, dominant, globally recognised financial institution known for innovation, superior performance, and the creation of premium value for all stakeholders.

The Chief Executive of Stanbic IBTC Capital Limited, Mr. Oladele Sotubo, commended the management of Zenith Bank for their commitment to the transaction, which provides an opportunity for existing shareholders to consolidate their position and welcomes new investors to join the journey towards the future of Zenith Bank. He also expressed gratitude for the opportunity for Stanbic IBTC Capital Limited to lead and guide the execution of the transactions. Speaking further, he said, “A combined offer that is both a Rights Issue and a Public Offer confirms Zenith Bank’s position as a pacesetter and a role model, which will undoubtedly spur more transactions in the capital market.”

The lead issuing house for the Rights Issue and Public Offer is Stanbic IBTC Capital Limited, with joint issuing houses including Quantum Zenith Capital & Investments Limited, CardinalStone Partners Limited, Meristem Capital Limited, Chapel Hill Denham Advisory Limited, Coronation Merchant Bank Limited and Vetiva Advisory Services Limited. The Offer will open on Thursday, August 1, 2024, and close on Monday, September 9, 2024.

Zenith Bank has provided a robust suite of platforms for the Rights Issue and Public Offer. Applications can be made through any of Zenith Bank’s electronic channels: Zenith Bank Internet Banking, Zenith Bank Mobile Application, Zenith Bank Corporate Internet Banking, Zenith Bank Branches nationwide and NGX Invest platform.

The Zenith Bank E-Application channels have been integrated into the NGX Invest platform, which can be accessed at https://invest.ngxgroup.com, and are available to all applicants and authorised receiving agents to submit applications on behalf of applicants. The electronic channels democratises the distribution of public offers and rights issues in the capital market, enabling investors to subscribe with the click of a button.

SCOAN Hosts Inaugural Youth Convention: A Legacy of Purpose

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blacktalker
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Over three thousand youths from various regions gathered this weekend at the Synagogue Church of All Nations, SCOAN, headquarters in Ikotun-Egbe, Lagos, for the inaugural Youth Convention organized by the TB Joshua Foundation.

The Convention with the theme: “Legacy of Purpose-Investing in a Life That Outlives Us,” featured a range of experts aiming to educate and inspire attendees toward impactful lifestyles and greater achievements.

Opening the Convention, SCOAN leader, Pastor Evelyn Joshua emphasized the critical role of guiding youths as future leaders. She highlighted the importance of steering young people towards a purposeful and impactful life amidst the myriad challenges they face today, including ethical, social, and cultural disintegration.

Pastor Joshua also encouraged the youths to embrace the transformative potential of the Convention to reshape their lives meaningfully.

The “Legacy of Purpose” theme is rooted in the legacies of SCOAN’s founder, Prophet TB Joshua, whose vision was to ensure that future leaders are well-grounded in morals, education, and skills acquisition. Pastor Joshua urged the youths to stay close to God and let His word guide their lives.

The Director of the TB Joshua Foundation, Sarah Joshua, stated that the Foundation aims to preserve and rejuvenate Prophet TB Joshua’s legacy for the betterment of humanity. She announced that 30 participants would receive scholarships and support for small and medium-sized businesses.

Also, the principal organiser, Promise Joshua, thanked SCOAN youths in Akure and Ghana, as well as global supporters, for making the event possible. She assured attendees of greater future conventions, emphasizing SCOAN’s commitment to guiding Nigerian youths amidst today’s challenging social environment.

Evangelist Ope Adeyeye spoke on the Convention’s theme, noting that a purposeful life is essential for creating a lasting impact on others. The event also featured testimonials, including a former cultist who shared his story of redemption, highlighting the dangers of negative associations and overambition.

One of the Convention’s highlights was a panel discussion, moderated by mining engineer Woye Olagbaju, which provided a platform for addressing youths’ challenges.

Panelists included international media expert, Vimbai, HR specialist, Dr. Oluwaseun, esteemed banker, Moji Oguntoyinbo, educationist Professor, Ade Ayodeji, Barrister Deji Olabiwonnu, and tourism expert, Mrs. Nneka. The session offered valuable guidance and solutions for the participants’ life journeys.

The convention also included music, dance, drama, and other engaging activities. Participants praised the event’s impact, with Nike Adeyemi expressing hope for future conventions and Kolawole Shojonwo finding it both educational and inspiring. Ben Olamide described it as an unforgettable, enriching experience, calling for more such initiatives in Nigeria.

OPINION: Saving School Children From E-Cigarette Vendors

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blacktalker
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By Robert Egbe and Anjola Fatuase

Fifteen years after the National Assembly enacted the National Tobacco Control Act, NTCA, to protect Nigerians from the dangers of tobacco, the problem of the tobacco industry’s unhealthy relations with minors continues to be a talking point.

A case in point is the recent investigation by a tobacco control advocate, GST, which revealed that vendors are having a field day dispensing the tobacco industry’s products of death and diseases to children.

GST’s findings, partly published in a video on its X handle, showed several vendors on the streets of Abuja, freely selling cigarettes, vapes and other kinds of e-cigarettes to school children. Not only is this morally reprehensible, but it has further emphasised the fears of tobacco control advocates that tobacco corporations are – whether by hook or by crook – finding ways to reach their target: the youth.

Ultimately, their goal is to recruit a new generation of young Nigerians addicted to smoking as a replacement for older victims who die from smoking or manage to quit the habit.

About 28,876 Nigerians die of smoking-related diseases annually. The tobacco industry increasingly preys on children and adolescents, employing advertising tactics both online and offline to target them directly with a portfolio of products that threaten their health. The industry is rapidly rebranding existing products and launching new articles promoted as sophisticated to young people. It is using every means to expand its market offerings to manoeuvre or beat public health regulations.

Globally, the tobacco industry has been very successful in killing its customers. According to the WHO, there are 1.3 billion tobacco users worldwide. That number would be even larger if tobacco didn’t kill half of its users who don’t quit. Every four seconds, tobacco takes another life.

No fewer than eight million persons died from tobacco use last year, including an estimated 1.3 million non-smokers who were exposed to second-hand smoke. Decades of the tobacco industry’s deception and devious tactics have hooked generations of users to nicotine and tobacco, driving a global epidemic.

In the video, GST volunteers, dressed as underaged pupils, went out to buy cigarettes and vapes in Abuja. Incredibly, every vendor agreed to sell to them, blatantly flouting tobacco control laws. Since 2015, the NTCA has banned the sale of tobacco products to persons under 18 years. This includes cigarettes, vapes and all other tobacco products. Any vendor who violates this law is liable to spend one year in prison (or/and) a fine of 200,000 Naira.

However, as is common knowledge in Nigeria and globally, laws do not seem to deter the industry. Tobacco corporations, using their substantial financial resources, relentlessly try to circumvent national regulations and laws.

Only last November, the Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Commission (FCCPC) fined British American Tobacco Nigeria Limited (BATN) and its affiliates an unprecedented $110 million for violating national tobacco control regulations, among other laws.

The GST’s investigation, supported by video evidence, is another incontrovertible instance of the industry and its affiliates undermining public health policies. To this, the Nigerian state must respond firmly, especially with the lives of young children at stake.

Thankfully, the Federal Capital Territory Administration (FCTA) is taking a tough stance to protect children, starting from the home front. The FCTA has urged the Federal Government to initiate a law that will prosecute parents who send children on errands to buy tobacco-related products.

According to Dr. Doris John, FCTA’s Director, Public Health Department, more than 25, 000 children between 10 and 14 years are daily tobacco users in Nigeria, while the age of tobacco use initiation is between 13 and 15 years. John, who was quoted by the Vanguard newspaper on June 11, 2024, added that secondary school and university studies showed ‘shisha’ smoking rates between 3 to 7 per cent.

To save our children, we join the GST in demanding that the government impose proof of age verification as a condition for the sale of tobacco and related products. We also urge the government to enforce the law and punishments on erring vendors and shield children from predatory tobacco marketing tactics.

Egbe and Fatuase work with Corporate Accountability and Public Participation Africa (CAPPA).

LASU LAUNCHES QUALITY AMBASSADORS PROGRAMME TO DRIVE QUALITY CONSCIOUSNESS ON CAMPUS

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blacktalker
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In a bid to drive quality consciousness among members of staff and students of the Lagos State University, LASU, the Directorate of Quality Assurance has launched the ‘Quality Ambassadors.

These Ambassadors are a group of people committed to propagating quality in the University.

The programme was unveiled on Friday, 26th July 2024, when the Director, Directorate of Quality Assurance, led members of the Directorate to meet members of the university management at the Vice Chancellor’s Conference Room on the 6th floor of the Senate Building.

Prof. Okunneye, while introducing the initiative to the Vice Chancellor, Prof. Ibiyemi Olatunji-Bello, mni, NPOM said ‘Members of the university community have been embracing our activities so far, but we felt that we should take it a step forward by making sure people imbibe the culture of quality in their daily activities. We want a university where people will not need to be coarsed into doing things with quality.’

Furthermore, ‘We want to propagate the ideal of quality in the university and that is why we are introducing the Quality Ambassadors, starting with members of the management’, he said, before presenting branded t-shirts with the inscription ‘Quality starts with you and me’ to members of management present.

The Vice Chancellor, who was represented by the Deputy Vice Chancellor, Administration, Prof. Adenike Boyo, in her response, lauded the Directorate for the initiative. She said, ‘I thank you for this initiative. This is a good idea that will promote quality in our university, and the t-shirt will make you stand out when you are discharging your assignments.’

The Deputy Vice Chancellor, Academic,  Prof. Olufunsho Omobitan, the University Librarian, Dr Omawunmi Makinde, and the Deputy Registrar, Vice Chancellor’s Office, Dr Lateef Sekoni, were other functionaries of the university present at the meeting.

Prof. Olanrewaju Ajiboye, Prof. Bukola Atolagbe, Prof. Simeon Dosunmu, Prof. Henry Hunjo, Mrs Zaynab Ashiru-Mobolaji, and Mr Agunbaide completed the delegation from the Directorate of Quality Assurance.

NATIONAL ASSEMBLY MOVES TO STRENGTHEN NIMC’S IDENTITY REGULATORY FUNCTION

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blacktalker
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NIMC APPROVES PRICE REVIEW FOR ITS SERVICES, PRODUCTS


The National Assembly has embarked on repealing and enacting the National Identity Management Commission, NIMC Act No. 23.

NIMC Head, Corporate Communications Unit, Kayode Adegoke in a statement says this is part of the moves to strengthen the regulatory function of the Commission.

The NIMC Bill represents a significant legislative endeavour to enhance the efficacy and inclusivity of the Identity Management System. This updated and comprehensive bill embodies several proposed amendments designed to improve the effectiveness and inclusivity of the Nigeria ID System.

The amendments seek to fortify the foundational framework of the NIMC and its operations by;
Expanding the Scope of Registrable Persons. The benefit to the country is a more comprehensive and inclusive identification system, which enhances national security, facilitates efficient service delivery, and promotes financial inclusion.

The bill also aims to streamline the sharing of personal data, incorporating robust data protection measures to safeguard the privacy and confidentiality of individuals’ personal data and foster trust among citizens in the handling of their information. It also enhances NIMC’s administrative enforcement Power to ensure timely and accurate compliance with ID registration requirements.

The NIMC repeal and enactment bill, when passed into law, will lead to a more streamlined registration process, reducing bureaucratic hurdles and enhancing the reliability of the Nigeria ID System.

ADBOND HOMES REDEEMS PROMISE TO WINNERS OF MR AND MISS UNILAG 2024

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blacktalker
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Winners of the Mr. and Miss UNILAG 2024, Michael Adekola and Haneefah Sanda have received papers of landed properties courtesy of Adbond Harvest and Homes.

The Real Estate Company was among sponsors of the Mr & Miss UNILAG 2024 which held on Friday, July 5, 2024, during which it committed to present the parcel of land to the two winners for their victory in the pageantry contest.

Speaking at a formal signing ceremony to mark the official handing over of the 150 square metre land located at Obafemi in Ogun state to the winners, the General Wealth Advisory Manager, Adbond Harvest and Homes, Kate Nwagu congratulated both Michael Adekola and Haneefah Sanda on their feats.

She described the land properties as a token of the real estate company’s interest and commitment to the social life of students as well as a way of inspiring their interests in agro-business and real estate sectors.

In his remarks, the Dean of Student Affairs, University of Lagos, Professor Musa Obalola appreciated Adbond Harvest and Homes for redeeming its promise to the 2024 pageantry winners. He described the gesture as an inspiration to the winners and a motivation for others.

The Mr & Miss UNILAG 2024 Winners, Michael Adekola (400-level Chemistry) and Haneefah Sanda (200-level Mass Communication) also went home with a monetary cheque prize of one hundred thousand naira each, while cheques of fifty thousand naira went to each of the first and second runners up in the Mr & Miss UNILAG 2024 contest courtesy of Adbond Harvest and Homes.

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