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Nigeria Showcases Digital Platforms to Boost Mining Investments at UK Conference

By
Toyin Adebayo
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0

The Minister of Solid Minerals Development, Dr. Dele Alake, has called on global investors to leverage Nigeria’s advanced geo-data platforms to explore the country’s vast mineral wealth.

Speaking at the ongoing Mines & Money Conference in Islington, London, Dr. Alake highlighted the adoption of digital technology by the Federal Government as part of efforts to facilitate business inquiries and promote transparent transactions in the solid minerals sector.

According to a statement by Mr. Kehinde Bamigbetan, the Minister’s Special Adviser, Dr. Alake introduced three key web platforms:

  1. Nigerian Mineral Decision Support System (NMRDSS):

A web-based tool providing access to geo-scientific and geo-economic data.

Enables investors to analyze mineral occurrences, hydrology, demography, geography, urban planning, and transportation for informed decision-making.

  1. Electronic Mining Cadastral (EMC+):

An online, real-time system for managing mineral titles throughout their life cycles, ensuring efficiency and transparency.

Allows remote research and application planning for prospective investors.

  1. National Geo-Data Centre:

A central repository offering updated geological and mineral wealth data.

Commitment to Data Quality and Sustainability

Dr. Alake emphasized that President Bola Tinubu’s administration is committed to enhancing geological data acquisition and research. Plans include increased funding for public and private sector research to expand and refine available data.

He praised the work of African geoscientists in developing a coding system to certify research reports, ensuring the reliability of data for investors.

Positioning Nigeria as a Global Mining Hub

Highlighting Nigeria’s potential, Dr. Alake underscored recent discoveries of critical minerals like lithium and rare earth elements, positioning the country as a significant player in the global transition to a green economy.

“The deliberate investment in accurate geoscientific data, particularly for critical minerals, aligns with Nigeria’s commitment to sustainability and the global fight against climate change,” he stated.

He also stressed the need for value addition and beneficiation in downstream mining, urging investors to collaborate with the government to unlock the sector’s potential.

Appeal to Global Investors

Dr. Alake made a compelling pitch to executives from leading mining companies, including Barrick’s Mark Bristow, Traxys’ Mark Kristoff, and Anglo American’s Kate Southwell.

“The future of Nigeria’s solid minerals is brimming with promise. Our doors are open to partnerships, and we invite you to join us on this transformative journey,” he concluded.

A Vision for Diversification

The Minister reiterated the Tinubu administration’s focus on diversifying Nigeria’s economy by prioritizing the solid minerals sector, aiming to drive sustainable growth and reduce reliance on oil.

The event also featured investor engagements at Nigeria’s exhibition booth, where participants explored opportunities in the country’s evolving mining sector.

FG Reaffirms Commitment to Ending HIV Among Children by 2030

By
Toyin Adebayo
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0

The Federal Government has reiterated its determination to eliminate new HIV infections among children and achieve the global goal of ending AIDS as a public health threat by 2030.

This assurance was given by Dr. Iziaq Adekunle Salako, Honourable Minister of State for Health, during the World AIDS Day commemoration in Abuja.

With the theme “Take the Rights Path: Sustain the HIV Response and Stop HIV Among Children to End AIDS in Nigeria by 2030,” this year’s event underscores the urgency of addressing HIV transmission in children while sustaining Nigeria’s broader HIV response.

Strategic Focus on Children

Dr. Salako noted that over 1.9 million people, including approximately 150,000 children, live with HIV in Nigeria. He emphasized the Federal Government’s commitment to ensuring sustained access to antiretroviral therapy (ART), expanded testing, counselling, and enhanced prevention programs.

“The Federal Government remains committed to achieving the goal of ending AIDS by 2030, ensuring no child is left behind,” Dr. Salako stated.

The Minister highlighted initiatives like the Health Sector Renewal Investment Initiative, which focuses on improving data management, securing medicines, and mobilizing sustainable domestic resources to reinforce the fight against HIV/AIDS.

He urged all stakeholders, including sub-national governments, private sector players, community and religious leaders, NGOs, and CBOs, to intensify efforts to prevent HIV transmission

Wike Inaugurates Kabusa-Ketti Road, Pledges Enhanced Security Through Infrastructure Development

By
Toyin Adebayo
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0

The Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Minister, Barr. Nyesom Wike, has reaffirmed his administration’s resolve to enhance security and connectivity in rural areas by integrating streetlights into ongoing road construction projects.

During the inauguration of the 10.5-kilometer Kabusa to Ketti access road in Abuja on Wednesday, Wike emphasized the transformative potential of the project for local communities.

“For the first time, you can see we are providing roads and, at the same time, providing streetlights,” the minister stated, pointing to the success of similar initiatives in Kuje township, where streetlights have significantly improved nighttime security.

He noted that such projects are part of the administration’s broader efforts to reduce the challenges faced by rural dwellers, ensure safer environments for farmers, and tackle insecurity across the territory.

Road Project to Transform Communities

The Kabusa to Ketti road, awarded to Tech Oil Global Concept, will connect multiple communities and is expected to be completed within six months. According to Mr. Richard Dauda, Acting Executive Secretary of the Federal Capital Development Authority (FCDA), the project is designed to address long-standing challenges in the area.

Mr. Christopher Maikalangu, Chairman of the Abuja Municipal Area Council (AMAC), hailed the project as a game changer. He recounted the difficulties residents had faced, including heightened insecurity due to poor road conditions.

“This is where our royal father was kidnapped and killed because the road was very difficult for security operatives to access,” Maikalangu said, expressing confidence that the new road would mitigate such risks and stimulate economic activities.

Ongoing and Future Projects

Maikalangu commended the FCT Administration’s focus on rural development, highlighting completed projects like the Saburi, Karimo to Dei-Dei, and Life Camp roads in Zone C. He also praised ongoing efforts such as the Kabusa to Takushara road.

Describing Wike as a “game changer and transformer,” Maikalangu invited the minister to commission additional completed projects within the council area. He also urged the minister to extend infrastructure development to underserved communities in Zone A, including Nyanya, Karu, Orozo, and Karshi.

Commitment to Inclusive Growth

The Kabusa to Ketti road project exemplifies the FCT Administration’s commitment to inclusive development, prioritizing infrastructure that fosters security and connectivity. By addressing the unique challenges of rural communities, the administration is laying the groundwork for sustainable growth and improved quality of life across the territory.

SOLID MINERALS ROADSHOWEXCITES SOUTH-AFRICAN MINING INVESTORS

By
Toyin Adebayo
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0

By Segun Tomori

The maiden edition of the Investment Summit and Roadshow for Solid Minerals in Nigeria held recently in Johannesburg, South Africa, has come and gone, but the immense potential for transforming our mining sector is yet to be fully analyzed. Organized by the Nigerian High Commission to South-Africa in collaboration with Rosebank Capital, the investment forum showcased ongoing reforms in the mining sector and Nigeria’s vast solid minerals potential to South-African mining giants and international financial institutions whilst facilitating engagements between the Federal Government and companies of the foremost mining nation towards developing the mining sector.

Apart from the keynote address delivered by Dr. Dele Alake, represented by the Permanent Secretary, Dr. Mary Ogbe, private breakout sessions that involved direct engagements with investors, with emphasis on how the ministry can assist in making informed decisions about the mining sector, address perceiving misgivings about Nigeria’s business climate whilst throwing more light on efforts to reposition the mining sector were held. The enthusiasm of investors after the parley was palpable.

Of major concern to investors is policy flip-flop, which they consider a disincentive to investments. The Nigerian delegation effectively countered this by citing the ongoing process to amend the Nigeria Minerals And Mining Act (2007), which will give legal teeth to reforms and ensure mining policies are entrenched. On friction between operators and host communities, investors were briefed on the provisions of the revised Community Development Agreements (CDAs) which stipulates consent from host communities before approval of mining licenses; collaboration with sub-national entities to strengthen the Mineral Resources and Environmental Management Committee (MIREMCO) amongst others.

The innovative Nigeria Mineral Decision Support System (NMDSS) played a significant role in wooing South-African investors at the Roadshow. The online platform launched some months ago by the Minister was touted as the answer to Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) by mining enthusiasts about Nigeria’s mining industry. Equipped with high resolution geophysical, hydrological and topographical data alongside data of mineral occurrences in Nigeria and its geology, the NMDSS was showcased as the go-to portal to make informed investment decisions about the mining sector from anywhere in the world with a click of a button on a smartphone or other gadgets, without recourse to hitherto rigours of travelling down to Nigeria.

President Bola Tinubu’s sing song to foreign companies – “Easy In, Easy Out”, which implies full repatriation of profits to home countries was dangled to investors alongside the minister’s signature tax waivers on imported mining equipment. In making a decision to invest in Nigeria, Alake reiterated the policy of local value addition thus, “We expect mining companies to extract and process to a substantial degree before exporting to other countries. This strategy is designed to enable transfer of skills to young miners, provide employment for teeming youths and women, and contribute significantly to our country’s Gross Domestic Product (GDP)”.

In the time past, the cumbersome process of applying for mining licenses was a disincentive to investments, but that has changed. Participants at the Johannesburg investment summit were regaled with the new improved digitized Electronic Mining Cadastral System (EMC+), a 24/7 online platform designed by the Mining Cadastral Office (MCO) which enables prospective operators to apply and follow up on application for mining licenses from the comfort of their homes, anywhere in the world.

Aside from the very productive engagements with South-Africa based companies, the Ag. Nigeria High Commissioner to South Africa, Amb. Tope Ajayi facilitated discussions between the Nigerian delegation and South-African mining professionals on the feasibility of an exchange programme that will culminate in the certification of Nigeria’s mining professionals on “Professional accreditation for authentication of data” in South-Africa. A Government to Government (G2G) model was conceived for the exchange programme after deliberations and efforts are already ongoing to get the buy-in of both countries at the highest level.

The well-articulated engagements by the ministry seemed to strike a chord with potential investors as not a few were keen on investing in Nigeria. Of particular significance was the commitment of a major shareholder of the Pilanesberg Platinum Mines to replicate something similar in Nigeria. He further pledged a visit to the country before the end of the year to fine-tune investment plans.

Another highlight of the Roadshow was the MOU signed by the Enugu State Government and Skote Limited for the development of a coal processing plant and a 1,000 mw power plant in Enugu State within 5 years, which is expected to gulp $1bn. Crystal Partners, a diversified Investment holding company based in South-Africa with mining assets in three African countries also expressed interest in investing in the mining sector, proposing to visit Nigeria before the end of the year to concretize partnership.

Indeed, the maiden edition of the International Investment Forum and Roadshow in South Africa for Nigeria’s Solid Minerals is a phenomenal success by all standards. What is required is the tenacity of purpose to broker the deals and translate expression of interest into investments in our mining sector. Under Dr. Dele Alake’s proactive leadership, rest assured it’s a done deal!

Wike Orders Immediate Rehabilitation of Government Secondary School, Kabusa

By
Toyin Adebayo
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0

The Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Minister, Barr. Nyesom Wike, has directed the urgent rehabilitation and upgrade of Government Secondary School, Kabusa, citing its current condition as unsuitable for quality education.

Speaking at the school’s permanent site during the inauguration of the 9.8-kilometer Kabusa-Takushara road project on Tuesday in Abuja, Wike expressed his dissatisfaction:

“Is this a school? I will not lie to you; I will not accept this as a school for our children to have quality education. I am, therefore, directing immediate upgrading of the school for our children to get the best of education.”

Urgent Upgrades Underway

The minister assured the community that the school would be renovated under emergency provisions to meet the standards expected by the FCT Administration (FCTA). He also instructed his Chief of Staff, Mr. Chidi Amadi, to work with the FCTA Director of Procurement to fast-track the rehabilitation process.

Ending Disruptive Protocols

Wike criticized the practice of using students to line up on roads to welcome officials, describing it as unnecessary and counterproductive:

“It is not in our culture, and this will be the last time to see this happen. Nobody should bring students out of their school to line up on the road. We will not accept that any longer. Our children deserve the best.”

He urged school principals across the FCT to prioritize the welfare and education of students over ceremonial activities.

Commitment to Education

The planned rehabilitation of Government Secondary School, Kabusa, reflects Wike’s broader commitment to enhancing education standards in the FCT. By addressing both infrastructural deficiencies and procedural inefficiencies, the minister aims to create a conducive learning environment for students and ensure quality education delivery across the territory.

Nigeria Launches Cervical Cancer Elimination Service Award (CCESA) to Drive Progress

By
Toyin Adebayo
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0

As part of its unwavering commitment to eliminating cervical cancer, Nigeria has introduced the Cervical Cancer Elimination Service Award (CCESA) to honor individuals and organizations championing the fight against the disease.

The inaugural edition of the award will be presented at the 2nd Stakeholders’ Summit on Cervical Cancer Elimination in Nigeria (SSCCEN), slated for December 5-6, 2024, at Chida Hotel, Abuja.

The CCESA aligns with global cervical cancer elimination targets set by the World Health Organization (WHO), focusing on:

Achieving 90% HPV vaccination coverage for girls aged 9–14 years.

Reaching 70% screening coverage for women at ages 35 and 45.

Ensuring 90% access to treatment for women with cervical lesions or cancer.

Honorees of the Maiden CCESA

The 2024 CCESA will recognize six individuals and one organization for their exceptional contributions:

Her Excellency (Dr.) Zainab Shinkafi Bagudu – Global Cervical Cancer Elimination Ambassador Award for positioning Nigeria on the global map in cervical cancer advocacy.

Dr. Ramatu Hassan – Recognized for developing Nigeria’s first strategic plan for cervical cancer prevention and control (2016–2020).

Senator (Dr.) Ibrahim Oloriegbe and Hon. (Dr.) Yusuf Tanko Sununu – Lauded for legislative efforts ensuring the launch of the Cancer Health Fund (CHF).

Dr. Faisal Shuaib – Celebrated for introducing the HPV vaccine into Nigeria’s Expanded Program on Immunization (EPI).

Alhaji Mohammed Alkali – Honored for spearheading the North-East Collaboration for Cervical Cancer Elimination (NE-C3E).

UNICEF Nigeria – Acknowledged for supporting Nigeria’s first standalone cervical cancer elimination stakeholders’ summit.

Advancing Collaboration and Innovation

Dr. Ishak Lawal, Executive Director of the End Cervical Cancer Nigeria Initiative (ECCNI), emphasized the importance of collaboration:

“By synergizing efforts, stakeholders can accelerate progress even with limited resources.”

The SSCCEN will also unveil a Virtual Cervical Cancer Elimination Dashboard to monitor real-time progress across states and local governments, fostering transparency and accountability.

Expanding Recognition in Future Editions

The CCESA will become an annual event, expanding to honor states, local governments, and NGOs demonstrating excellence in cervical cancer prevention and treatment. Recipients will be selected through a rigorous evaluation of measurable impact, innovation, leadership, and collaboration.

Nigeria’s Leadership in Cervical Cancer Elimination

Through initiatives like the CCESA, SSCCEN, and ECCNI, Nigeria is positioning itself as a leader in cervical cancer elimination. By leveraging innovation and collective action, stakeholders are paving the way toward achieving WHO’s ambitious goals and securing a healthier future for women and girls.

Segment of Samsung Building Collapses in Wuse 2, Injures Four Workers

By
Toyin Adebayo
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0

A section of the Samsung building under construction at Banex Junction, Aminu Kano Crescent, Wuse 2, Abuja, collapsed on Monday, leaving four construction workers with minor injuries.

According to a statement by Mrs. Nkechi Isa, Head of Public Affairs, the collapse occurred during the casting of the penthouse section of the three-story structure. No lives were lost in the incident, and the injured workers were swiftly transported to Wuse General Hospital for treatment.

This is not the first setback for the Samsung building, which was previously damaged by a fire on November 6, 2023.

Calls for Adherence to Building Codes

The Acting Director General of the FCT Emergency Management Department (FEMD), Engr. Abdulrahman Mohammed, highlighted the importance of compliance with construction regulations to prevent such incidents.

“This incident underscores the importance of compliance with building regulations and prioritizing on-site safety to prevent such occurrences,” Mohammed said.

He also urged residents to utilize the 112 toll-free emergency line to report disasters promptly.

Investigation Underway

Authorities have launched an investigation into the cause of the collapse. Meanwhile, experts and regulators are expected to increase oversight to ensure similar incidents do not occur in the future.

The incident has once again raised concerns about construction practices and safety standards in the Federal Capital Territory, prompting calls for stricter enforcement of building codes.

Tinubu Administration Embarks on Rural Transformation in FCT with Kabusa-Takushara Road Project

By
Toyin Adebayo
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0

The administration of President Bola Tinubu has launched an ambitious initiative to transform satellite towns within the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) into modern cities. This was disclosed by FCT Minister Barr. Nyesom Wike during the inauguration of the Kabusa-Takushara road construction project in Abuja.

Wike emphasized that the Tinubu administration is dedicated to delivering grassroots development, ensuring rural communities enjoy the same infrastructure and services as urban areas.

“President Tinubu has made a promise to transform satellite towns into cities, and we are starting by constructing quality roads like this one. This is not just a groundbreaking ceremony; in six to seven months, we will commission this project,” he said.

Project Features and Benefits

The 9.8-kilometer Kabusa-Takushara road, awarded to Allied Technical and Construction Company Ltd, will feature a 7-meter-wide two-lane carriageway fitted with streetlights. The road will connect Kabusa, Teta, Tasha, Sauka, and Takushara, significantly enhancing transportation, boosting socio-economic activities, and easing the movement of agricultural products into the city.

“For the first time, roads in rural areas will be fitted with streetlights, offering residents a more comfortable and secure life,” Wike noted.

Broader Rural Transformation Agenda

Wike highlighted the initiative as part of the Tinubu administration’s Renewed Hope Agenda, aimed at restoring public confidence in governance. He announced plans for another road project connecting Kabusa to Ketti, further demonstrating the administration’s commitment to rural transformation.

“What we are doing today is what the Tinubu Renewed Hope Agenda is all about – giving hope back to our people,” Wike said.

The minister also called on the contractor to employ local workers, creating direct benefits for the community through job opportunities.

Technical Insights and Socio-Economic Impact

Mr. Richard Dauda, Director of Engineering Services at the Federal Capital Development Authority (FCDA), outlined the technical and economic significance of the project.

“The project will create direct and indirect jobs, improve safety for both vehicles and pedestrians, and facilitate quick access to healthcare services,” he stated.

This development is expected to bridge the gap between rural and urban areas in Abuja, fostering socio-economic growth and improving living standards.

A Growing Track Record

The Kabusa-Takushara road is the third rural road project initiated under Wike’s leadership, underscoring the FCT Administration’s resolve to uplift underserved communities. Residents have expressed optimism that these initiatives will bring lasting development and improve quality of life in satellite towns.

By integrating rural communities into the development narrative, the Tinubu administration is not only delivering infrastructure but also reinforcing its commitment to inclusive governance.

Nigeria Targets AIDS-Free Generation by 2030 with Sector-Wide Approach

By
Toyin Adebayo
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0

The Federal Government has adopted a sector-wide strategy to integrate HIV response into national health priorities, aiming to enhance accountability and resource efficiency in the fight against HIV/AIDS.

This announcement was made by Dr. Iziaq Salako Adekunle, Minister of State for Health, during the 2024 World AIDS Day commemoration in Abuja, organized by the National Agency for the Control of AIDS (NACA). The event was themed: “Take the Right Path: Sustain the HIV Response and Stop HIV Among Children to End AIDS in Nigeria by 2030.”

Progress and Challenges

Dr. Salako highlighted Nigeria’s significant progress in reducing HIV prevalence from 3.4% to 1.4%, but noted that over 2 million people still live with HIV, requiring intensified interventions.

“Our strategy must address social, cultural, and economic barriers to healthcare services, particularly for women and children. With a unified sector-wide approach and collective action, ending AIDS by 2030 is achievable,” he said.

He called on state governments, private sector stakeholders, and community leaders to collaborate in preventing mother-to-child transmission and improving healthcare access for vulnerable groups.

Global Support and Rights-Based Approach

UN Resident Coordinator Mohamed Fall expressed optimism about achieving the goal of ending AIDS by 2030, but warned of persistent challenges.

“Every 25 seconds, someone is infected with HIV globally. The fight against AIDS can be won through a rights-based approach, ensuring everyone, especially vulnerable groups, accesses lifesaving services,” he said.

He stressed the need to eliminate discriminatory laws and practices that hinder HIV response efforts.

Innovations in HIV Response

Dr. Temitope Ilori, NACA’s Director General, detailed key milestones, including the launch of the PMTCT and Pediatric Acceleration Committee to eradicate mother-to-child transmission. She also announced initiatives for local production of antiretrovirals and other HIV-related commodities.

“Local production of active pharmaceutical ingredients will ensure sustainability and strengthen health security,” she said.

Dr. Ilori commended the renewed collaboration with donors and the publication of Nigeria’s HIV data by UNAIDS after three years, demonstrating transparency and evidence-based intervention.

Sustaining Momentum

The World AIDS Day event served as a rallying call for stakeholders to align efforts and leverage innovations to sustain progress. Dr. Salako emphasized that full government ownership and collective action remain key to achieving an AIDS-free generation by 2030.

This unified commitment aims to solidify Nigeria’s position as a leader in combating HIV/AIDS in sub-Saharan Africa.

Wike Set To Launch A Series Of Transformative Infrastructure Projects

By
Toyin Adebayo
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0

The Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Minister, Nyesom Wike, is set to launch a series of transformative infrastructure projects this week, including the construction of four new roads and other critical facilities aimed at enhancing Abuja’s development and public services.

According to a statement released on Monday by Mr. Lere Olayinka, Senior Special Assistant to the FCT Minister on Public Communication and New Media, the Minister will flag off six new projects over the next two weeks.

Key Projects
Among the major projects slated for inauguration are:

  1. Kabulsa-Takushara Access Road
  2. Kabusa-Ketti Access Road
  3. Access Road to the new EFCC Academy in Giri District
  4. 15km Road from the A2 Junction along Abuja-Lokoja Road to Pia in Kwali Area Council

In addition, Wike will oversee the commencement of:

The design, construction, and furnishing of an office complex for the Body of Benchers.

The construction of 10 staff quarters for the Nigerian Law School in Bwari Area Council.

To bolster security operations across the FCT, the Minister will also distribute brand-new vehicles to security agencies.

“These projects represent a continued commitment to improving the living standards of FCT residents and enhancing the efficiency of public services,” Olayinka stated.

Ongoing Inspections and Projects
Wike’s proactive approach to infrastructure development includes recent inspections of several projects, such as:

Construction of the Saburi-Dei Dei Road.

Rehabilitation of the Dutse-Usuma Dam Road.

Upgrading of the War College/Army Checkpoint Roads in Bwari Area Council.

Reconstruction of the 25km Kwaita/Yebu Road.

Construction of the 11km Yangoji-Sukuku-Ebo Road.

Rehabilitation of the Old Ushafa-LUD Road and Dutse-Lower Usuma Dam Dual Carriageway.

Other critical infrastructure projects under review include:

The 9km Paikon Kore/Ibwa Road.

The 11km Aguma Palace-Radio Nigeria-New Market Road in Gwagwalada.

The Dakibiyu District Dual Carriage Road leading to the Abuja Court of Appeal Complex under construction.

The 11km Kuje Road Project.

A 4km arterial road from Life Camp to Ring Road III.

The 11.3km Access Road to Judges Quarters in Katampe.

Commitment to Development
Wike’s hands-on approach underscores his dedication to closing infrastructural gaps, expanding the housing and judicial facilities, and improving Abuja’s transportation network. These initiatives are expected to have a significant and lasting impact on the Federal Capital Territory’s growth and development.

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