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Mouka Partners Herconomy, 360 Complete Woman to Present Business Grants, Quality Sleep Solutions to Deserving Women.

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For many years, Mouka has steadfastly committed to corporate social responsibility, as evidenced by its five CSR pillars: “Comfort for Children, Health Programs, Skills for Life, Disaster Relief, and Community Support.”

Under the ‘Skills for Life’ pillar, Mouka consistently invested in scholarship and entrepreneurship programs, demonstrating its long-term dedication to empowering Nigerians to contribute to the nation’s economy.

As far back as 2019, Mouka began partnering with Herconomy (previously called AGS Tribe), Nigeria’s first Fintech company for women, dedicated to empowering female entrepreneurs and professionals through financial services, capacity building, community, and opportunities. Mouka teamed up with Herconomy to present cash grants to deserving women who balance entrepreneurship and motherhood despite numerous challenges and still contribute to sustainable development growth.

Coined “Mum in Business,” the first grand prize winner was Maryam Adebola-Salami, founder of Mobaby Care Nigeria, an all-natural skin and hair care solutions company for children, who won based on the consistency and uniqueness of her narrative.

In May 2024, Mouka remained committed to supporting women by presenting N1,000,000 grants to three winners of the Mothers’ Day online engagement organized by Herconomy. These grants are aimed at enhancing their businesses. The mums also went home with high-quality Mouka mattresses and pillows for healthy sleep and improved well-being, recognizing the importance of rest in their busy lives.

The three mothers, Mrs. Blessing Olojo-Olayemi, Mrs. Ogooluwa Abidemi Badmus, and Mrs. Alausa Haleemah, were meticulously chosen after a rigorous selection process. They submitted videos showcasing their remarkable ability to balance business with motherhood.

This online initiative, a collaboration between Mouka and Herconomy, ensured a fair and transparent selection process, making the winners truly deserving of the grants. Mrs. Blessing Olojo-Olayemi, with the business name ‘Motale Elekogbajumo’ for food processing and packaging, emerged as the first prize winner, receiving N500,000 (Five Hundred Thousand Naira), and a hybrid mattress and pillows.

Mrs Ogooluwa Abidemi Badmus, the second prize winner and owner of the ‘Tammypartyplace’ event planning venture, smiled home with N300,000, while the third winner, Mrs. Alausa Haleemah, received N200,000 to enhance her fabric enterprise, with quality mattresses and pillows as complementary gifts.

The cash prizes and products were presented at the company’s head office in Ikeja, Lagos, on Wednesday, 29th May 2024. The winners commend Mouka for its generosity and for making it easy for them to improve their small-scale enterprises.

While receiving her prize, the overall winner, who could not hold her joy, extolled Mouka for its goodwill, saying, “I am deeply grateful to Mouka for awarding me the Mothers’ Day Mum in Business grant. This support will significantly impact my trade. Thank you for empowering and uplifting mothers.”

The second winner, who was very excited, avowed, “I am so delighted, I have never won anything like this. I am very grateful to Mouka; this gift came at the right time.” Similarly, the third beneficiary affirmed, “I appreciate Mouka for this amazing opportunity, which would boost my business. I have been using Mouka products since childhood.”

In addition to the Mum in Business initiative, Mouka supported another programme targeting women called the 360 Complete Woman beauty contest. The Complete 360 Woman is an online community that supports women in attaining a sense of self-worth and purpose, thereby adding value to women by helping them become the best versions of themselves through self-awareness.

This passion has created a platform, “The Complete 360 Woman Conference, for women to learn, enhance, and grow in a 360 capacity in the modern world. Mrs. Okoronkwo Esther Kosacachi emerged as Queen in this 2024 edition. Esther, a mother from Anambra State, also smiled home with a Wellbeing hybrid orthopedic mattress and pillows.

Commenting on the initiatives, Mouka’s Media and Insights Manager, Godwin Anumenechi, stated that the company intentionally supports initiatives targeted at women to bridge the societal gap created by gender bias and discrimination.

“At Mouka, we see women as a key pillar of support in every home and society. We believe in an inclusive society where women are empowered to contribute their quota to the economy in line with the 10th SGD goal of reduced inequalities”. Godwin said.


BREAKING: Federal Government Reaches Common Ground with Labour Unions

…Offers to pay more 60,000 naira as minimum wage.

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blacktalker
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The Federal Government has agreed to pay more than the 60,000 naira it initially proposed as new minimum wage.

The decision was taken at a meeting the government had with labour leaders on Monday night in Abuja to address the dispute over the national minimum wage in response to the nationwide strike declared by the organised labour..

The meeting, held in the office of the Secretary to the Government of the Federation, on Monday evening aimed to resolve the impasse and bring an end to the industrial action that had paralysed various sectors across the country.

At the end of the meeting, it was resolved that, “The President of Nigeria, Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces, committed to establishing a National Minimum Wage higher than 60,000 naira; and the Tripartite Committee will convene daily for the next week to finalise an agreeable National Minimum Wage.”

Other resolutions were; “In recognition of the President’s commitment, the organised labour would immediately hold meetings of its organs to consider this new offer; and no worker would face victimisation as a consequence of participating in the industrial action.”

These resolutions were signed on behalf of the Federal Government by Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris, and Minister of State for Labour and Employment, Nkeiruka Onyejeocha.

Representing the organised labour were the President of the Nigeria Labour Congress, Joe Ajaero, and the President of the Trade Union Congress, Festus Osifo.

The NLC on Friday declared a nationwide indefinite strike starting at midnight on Sunday, June 2, 2024, due to the Federal Government’s refusal to increase the proposed minimum wage above N60,000.

Ajaero announced the strike following failed negotiations between the government and organised labour.

From Law Enforcement to Traditional Leadership, Retired AIG, Prince Emmanuel Bashir Makama Dabup III Blazes Trail of Transformational Reforms

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blacktalker
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….Ascends Throne as Mwo-Ywom of Garkawa, Plateau State.

In a significant transition from law enforcement to traditional leadership, retired Assistant Inspector General of Police (AIG) Prince Emmanuel Bashir Makama Dabup III has blazed a trail of transformational reforms since he became the Mwo-Ywom of Garkawa in Plateau State.

Prince Makama’s ascension to the throne aligns with the words of Fred Rogers: “When you think you are at the end of something, you are at the beginning of something else.” The enthronement ceremony held in January 2024 marks the beginning of a new chapter for the former police officer, who is affectionately known as ‘Bash.’

Following his retirement, Makama was appointed by former Plateau State Governor, Simon Lalong to lead Operation Rainbow, a security outfit that includes the Army, Navy, Air Force, Police, and State Security Services. His exceptional performance in this role led to his retainment by the incumbent Governor Caleb Mutfwang as Coordinator of the outfit. Under Makama’s leadership, Operation Rainbow has made significant strides in enhancing the state’s security.

Governor Mutfwang lauded Makama’s efforts during the passing out parade of 600 personnel from the security outfit, emphasizing the positive impact of his leadership on Plateau State’s security landscape. “From the reports I have received and the parade we witnessed today, there is ample evidence that these soon-to-be gallant security officials have been put through the mills and have come out refined and ready to contribute their quota to the state’s effort to securing lives and property in our dear state,” said Mutfwang.

On December 22, 2023, Makama’s leadership journey took a new turn as he stood before the kingmakers of Garkawa in a keenly contested selection process for the position of Mwo-Ywom. Impressing the kingmakers with his credentials and vision, he was announced as the new King by the Plateau State Commissioner for Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs, Ephraim Usman. The selection process was praised for its fairness and lack of government interference.

Prince Makama, who takes the title Dadup III, follows in the footsteps of his grandfather, Dabup Bongap I, and his uncle, Joseph Dabup II. His enthronement continues a family legacy of leadership in Garkawa.

Since his enthronement, King Makama has wasted no time in fulfilling his mandate to serve the people of Garkawa. He has established strong relationships with government entities and organised stakeholder security meetings to ensure peace in his kingdom. Furthermore, he has launched empowerment programmes for youth, promoted higher education and scholarships, and initiated health insurance schemes for the elderly and children.

In just three months, the impact of King Makama’s leadership is already evident, earning him the admiration and support of his subjects. As he continues to implement his vision for development and security, the people of Garkawa are optimistic about the future under his reign.

Breaking: Nationwide Strike to commence tomorrow as intervention by NASS, SGF fails

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blacktalker
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The meeting between the leadership of the National Assembly, the Executive Arm of government, and the Organised Labour led by the Nigeria Labour Congress, NLC, has ended in deadlock after four hours.

The meeting was convened at the instance of the NASS leadership concerning the proposed industrial action by the Labour Unions over the yet-to-be-approved minimum wage for workers.

Speaking after the failed meeting to force the Organised  Labour to call off the proposed strike, the President of the Trade Union Congress, TUC,  Festus Osifo said they do not have the powers to suspend the strike against the backdrop that there are organs that they must report to before a final decision could be taken.

Osifo said, “There was an appeal from the Senate President to call off the strike. On our part, we said we cannot sit here and just call off the strike because we need to report to our people. We will take all their pleas to our organs. For now, we do not have the powers to call off the strike.”

FIRSTBANK MAINTAINS IMPRESSIVE PERFORMANCE, POSTS 238.53 BILLION NAIRA PBT IN Q1 2024

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blacktalker
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FirstBank Unveils Exclusive 500-Seater Premium Bleacher at Carnival Calabar 2025

FBN Holdings Plc has declared 238.53 billion naira Profit Before Tax, PBT, in its unaudited first quarter (Q1) ended March 31, 2024 results, which was about 325.2percent growth from the 56.1 billion naira reported in Q1 ended March 31, 2023.

The Q1 2024 results were a reflection of 2023 impressive performance as one of the oldest banks in Nigeria sustained its fundamentals amid domestic and foreign challenges.  From its Q1 2024 profit & loss figures, the Group declared 208.1 billion naira profit, which was about 315.8 percent compared with the N50.1 billion reported in Q1 2023.

The group announced 730.3 billion naira in gross earnings in Q1 2024, which was an increase of 181.4 percent from 259.5 billion naira in Q1 2023.

Amid a hike in the Monetary Policy Rate, MPR, the financial institution declared 455 billion naira interest income in Q1 2024, a growth of 153.3 percent from 179.6 billion naira in Q1 2023, while interest expenses closed Q1 2024 at 226.42 billion naira, representing 234.1per cent increase from 67.76 billion naira reported in Q1 2023.

Against the backdrop of a double-digit inflation rate, operating expenses moved from N111.2 billion in Q1 2023 to N212.80 billion reported in Q1 2024.

Total assets from the balance sheet position stood at 21.58 trillion naira as of March 2024, which was a 27.4 percent increase from the 16.94 trillion naira recorded in 2022.

As FBNHoldings declared 8.42 trillion naira in Customer loans & advances (Net) as of March 2024 from 6.36 trillion naira in 2023, the full financial year, its customer deposits stood at 13.27 trillion naira as of March 2024, an increase of 24.4 percent from 10.66 trillion naira reported in 2023 financial year.

The Group Managing Director, FBNHoldings, Nnamdi Okonkwo in a statement said, “FBNHoldings’ strong start to the year reinforces the confidence in achieving targets and delivering sustained value for our shareholders. “Our commitment to optimising the Group’s earnings capacity and maximising operational efficiencies has again delivered outstanding results.

“Underpinned by strong revenue growth and improved operational efficiency, our key financial metrics have shown significant improvement. Remarkably, gross earnings grew 181.4 percent to 730.3 billion naira, while profit before tax increased by 325.2 percent to 238.5 billion naira while our total assets increased by 27.4 percent in three months to 21.6 trillion naira.”

He added that the Group remained focused on its strategic initiatives towards further improving profitability, enhancing performance excellence, and surpassing stakeholders’ expectations.

However, the shareholding structure of FBNHoldings showed, the Group Chairman, Mr. Femi Otedola direct and indirect stake in the Group stood at 2,517,282,140 as of March 2024 from 1,999,342,376 March 2023.

The stock price of FBNHoldings closed on March 27, 2024, at 21.1 naira per share on the floor of the Exchange.

Culled from ThisDay

NLC/TUC Planned Strike: NAPPS Nigeria Calls For Constructive Dialogue

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blacktalker
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…..Tasks Members on Non-Participation in the Strike.

The National Association of Proprietors of Private Schools, NAPPS Nigeria, has called for constructive dialogue and negotiation as a response to the proposed strike by the Nigerian Labour Congress, NLC, and the Trade Union Congress, TUC, scheduled to begin on June 3, 2024.

In a statement jointly signed by the National President, of NAPPS Nigeria, Chief Yomi Otubela, FCMA, National Secretary, Comrade Augustine Ajibade, and National Publicity Secretary, Pastor Gabriel Igbinejesu, the Association emphasized the need for a peaceful resolution to the issues raised by the NLC and TUC, which center on improving the living conditions of workers.

The Association also expressed its willingness to support and facilitate the negotiation process to ensure a fair and sustainable outcome for all parties involved, hence issued the following directives and information:

Non-Participation in the Strike: ”Our esteemed members are enjoined not to participate in the indefinite strike by NLC/TUC commencing on Monday, 3rd June 2024. A strike action would disrupt the education sector, affecting both students and teachers. Continued stability in the education system is crucial for the growth and development of our nation.”

Examination Schedule: ”The ongoing West African Senior School Certificate Examination, WASSCE, will continue as scheduled by the West African Examinations Council, WAEC. Students are advised to adhere to the original timetable and ensure timely attendance. Note that other West African countries involved in WASSCE will not wait for Nigerians.”

Collaboration and Communication: ”We call upon school owners and teachers to facilitate a conducive environment for students and staff during this period. Communication channels should be opened and maintained to address any arising issues promptly. You can reach us for help through info@napps.com.ng.”

Economic Consequences: ”Strikes can have detrimental effects on the economy, leading to further financial instability and hardship for the citizens. It is in the best interest of all parties to seek a solution that does not exacerbate economic challenges, the statement added.”

LASEPA REAFFIRMS COMMITMENT TO ENVIRONMENTAL POLICING, COMBATTING CLIMATE CHANGE

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blacktalker
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… Partners Dangote, NB to Sponsor Essay Competition on Drought Resilience


As the June 5 annual World Environment Day celebration draws near, the Lagos State Environmental Protection Agency, LASEPA, has reaffirmed its commitment to implementing government-sustainable environmental policies aimed at mitigating climate change effects, promoting a circular economy and ensure environmental protection against drought and desertification.

In achieving this, the Agency stated that it is scaling up its advocacy campaigns in schools and colleges to carry youths along in the implementation of government reform policies geared towards combating climate change and greenhouse effect for sustainable environmental growth.

As part of its school advocacy programmes for the World Environment Day celebration for the year 2024, the Agency stated that it is partnering with Dangote Industries and the Nigerian Breweries to sponsor an essay competition among undergraduate students across all tertiary institutions in the State as a way of involving youths in the task of environmental preservation.

LASEPA’s General Manager, Dr. Tunde Ajayi, who stated this at the weekend during a pre-event Press Conference held in Alausa, stated that the essay competition is aimed at raising the consciousness of youth on environmental preservation, desertification and other climate change mitigating efforts towards achieving a sustainable environment for a healthy living.

The Theme of the Year 2024 World Environment Day, according to the LASEPA’s Boss is: “Land Restoration, Desertification and Drought Resilience”, which also forms the topic on which undergraduate participants in the competition will be tasked.

He said participating students are expected to give a write-up that will address environmental challenges in the State while exploring innovative solutions that could be useful in policy formulation.

The General Manager revealed that the essay competition is open to undergraduate students of all tertiary institutions in the State and will attract a cash prize of 500,000 naira for the overall winner, while the second and third runners-up will go home with 300,000 and 200, 000 naira each.

Ajayi explained futher that there would be other consolation prizes for the participants in the competition, including becoming LASEPA’s ambassador on environmental protection, gaining free access to LASEPA e-Library and LASEPA ISO-certified laboratories and other facilities for learning and research development.

He urged undergraduates across all tertiary institutions in the State to take the advantage of the competition to enrich themselves in knowledge and material resources, noting that every undergraduate student in all tertiary institutions in the State is qualified to participate in the competition, and the entry for participation closes on Wednesday, June 5, 2024.

On how to participate in the competition and other necessary guidelines, Ajayi urged interested undergraduate students to visit info@lasepa.gov.ng or the agency’s other social media handles.

In addition, the General Manager noted that relevant information and requirements on the essay competition have been sent to all tertiary institutions in Lagos, adding that after the submission deadline on Wednesday, 5th June, 2024, a panel of judges carefully selected on merit will grade the quality of the work submitted by participants for winners to emerge.

Ajayi, who commended Dangote Industries, Nigerian Breweries and other sponsors for prioritising environmental sustainability in their Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) policy, assured that the State government would continue to create an enabling environment for the growth of businesses in the State.

He added that the agency will not relent in implementing government policies that will guarantee a sustainable environment that is devoid of pollution or other environmental infractions detrimental to the health of the citizenry.

Deputy Inspector General of Police, Alabi Abiodun  Sylvester Set To Pay Working Visit to Ogun Command

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blacktalker
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Deputy Inspector General of Police, Alabi Abiodun  Sylvester psc, fdc, mnim, overseeing Force Criminal Investigation Department Abuja and the DIG representing the South West Geographical Zone of Nigeria Police is set to Ogun State on the 4th of June 2024.

This will be his first official  inspection visit to Ogun Police Command and an on duty tour to the South West Commands.

He is slated on his arrival to pay a courtesy visit on the executive Governor of Ogun State, Prince Dapo Abiodun CON, MFR, after which he will proceed to the palace of the paramount ruler and Alake of Egba land, HRM Oba Adedotun Aremu Gbadebo.

His next stop will be a return to the State Command Headquarters, Eleweran to address officers and men at the POWA hall.

Police Public Relations Officer, Ogun Police Command, SP Omolola Odutola, anipr in a statement said the Duty tour presents an opportunity for the DIG to holistically address policemen on the criminal justice system, by reiterating the rules of police investigation as provided in the volumes of the laws, such as holding sway the right of every suspects in commencement of police investigations, matters relating to criminal forensic examinations techniques and  proper case file handling.

Other areas are intelligence gathering techniques, communication techniques  of representations, prosecution, and to leverage the symbiotic relationship between the police and the judicial authorities.

The Statement further explained that the address by the Deputy Inspector General of Police, supervising officers that the Area Commanders will be allowed to account for their men and give overall remarks of other matters.

Odutola added that the session will come to an end by the Deputy Inspector General of Police final inspection of the new office building, especially the Technical intelligence Department.

Celebrating a Media Mogul: CEOAFRICA Hails Managing Director, Prince Cletus Sunday Ilobanafor On Impactful Leadership

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blacktalker
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….As Prince Cletus Sunday Ilobanafor Adds Another Year.



Today, June 1 marks a significant milestone for both Prince Cletus Sunday Ilobanafor and CEOAFRICA as they celebrate another year of remarkable achievements and contributions to the African media landscape.

As Managing Director of CEOAFRICA, Prince Ilobanafor has not only demonstrated exceptional leadership but has also inspired countless individuals across the continent.

Renowned speaker, Simon Sineck once said, “The true value of a leader is measured by the work they inspire others to do,” and Prince Ilobanafor exemplifies this sentiment through his visionary leadership. His dedication and passion for seeing Africa emerge as a global economic powerhouse by 2060 have been the driving force behind his relentless efforts.

Throughout his career, Prince Ilobanafor has garnered numerous accolades, both locally and internationally, recognizing his outstanding contributions to socioeconomic development. From prestigious awards such as the Arikana Excellence Award from the African Diaspora Development Institute in Washington DC, USA, to the lifetime achievement award from the Global African Shores of African-Union Diaspora, his impact resonates far and wide.


Notably, Prince Ilobanafor’s commitment to social causes is evident in his support for organizations like the Sickle Cell Hope Alive Foundation (SCHAF), where he has been instrumental in the fight against Sickle Cell Disease since its inception in 2012.

As an expert in Digital Media and Information Communication Technology (ICT), Prince Ilobanafor has not only spearheaded CEOAFRICA’s growth but has also represented Africa on international platforms such as the consultation and planning workshop on African Languages and Cyberspace in Gaborone, Botswana, organized by the African Union.

Today, as CEOAFRICA celebrates its 11th anniversary, it stands as a testament to Prince Ilobanafor’s vision and dedication to bringing Africa to the world and the world to Africa. From objective news reporting to world-class documentary production, CEOAFRICA has become a leading media organization on the continent, aligning with the African Union Agenda 2063.

In addition to his role as a media mogul, Prince Cletus Ilobanafor’s involvement in organizations like the African Language Week Committee of the African Union underscores his commitment to advancing African interests globally.

As Prince Cletus Sunday Ilobanafor’s birthday and CEOAFRICA’s anniversary come up today, it is not only to honour their past accomplishments but also the bright future they continue to inspire for Africa and beyond.

LASU MUSLIM COMMUNITY HONOURS BEST GRADUATING STUDENT AT 27TH CONVOCATION SPECIAL JUMAH SERVICE

…..Vice Chancellor calls for more support.

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As the 27th Convocation Ceremony of Lagos State University, LASU, gathers momentum, the University Muslim Community has honoured the best graduating student, Mubarak Olaniyi at its Special Jumah Service held at the University’s Mosque, on Friday, 31st May, 2024, main campus, Ojo, Lagos.

The reception in honour of the best graduating student and other first-class degree graduands (Muslims) took place outside the Mosque, with the Vice Chancellor, Professor Ibiyemi Olatunji-Bello, mni, NPOM as the special guest. She was accompanied by other principal officers of the University to the event.

Professor Olatunji-Bello, in her remarks, thanked the Muslim community for its continued support and always identifying with her. She congratulated the best graduating student and other first-class degree holders of the 2022/2023 academic session. She advised them to always be good ambassadors of the University.

The Vice Chancellor also used the occasion to warn surrogate staff, who always claim to be bona-fide personnel of the University, to desist from such claims and steer clear of the institution, adding that if they are caught, the law would take its due course.


Also, she enjoined the academic staff to embrace technology, especially those with rather large classes, which the National University Commission, NUC, had approved virtual learning for higher institutions, to use it in teaching their students

She ended her speech by admonishing the staff to always see the big picture of LASU, rather than personal gains. She added that in her dealings, she sees all staff as one, irrespective of their religion, colour, or language. She also called for more support from the staff for her administration.

The Chief Imam, LASU Muslim Community and member, Imam-in-Council, Prof. Amidu Sanni, in his welcome address, applauded the Vice Chancellor for the modest achievements and her commitment to the accelerated development of the institution in her stint since she came on board as the Vice Chancellor.

He charged the Management to step up the infrastructural  development of the University as the population of students keeps increasing. He prayed the Vice Chancellor would be counted among noble leaders at the end of her tenure.

The highlights of the event  included the presentation of a certificate of honour to the best graduating student by a member of Imam-in-Council, LASU Muslim Community, Prof. Taiwo Salisu, recognition of first class graduating students, special prayer, and praises to God.

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