Thursday, may 12, 2016

Patients panic as doctors’ strike hits hospitals Marcus Fatunmole ABUJA

P Adewole

atients at government hospitals in Abuja panicked yesterday, following the commencement of the

strike embarked upon by resident doctors in the country.

The doctors, under the aegis of National Association of Resident Doctors, NARD, declared a five-day warning strike on Tues-

day.

The medical practitioners had expressed hope that their action would compel government to look into their demands.

Relatives of in-patients CONTINUED ON PAGE 2>>

2 Nigerians to be executed in Indonesia for drugs P.6

Onyeama

Petrol to sell for N145/litre as FG removes subsidy F Vol. 6 N0. 1368

National Mirror Online @NationalMirror Thursday, May 12, 2016

N150

Rotimi Fadeyi and Boladale Bamigbola

ederal Government yesterday announced a new pump price of Premium Motor Spirit, PMS, which should not be above N145 per litre as a way to deregulate the importation of fuel and remove subsidy.

Briefing State House correspondents, Minister of State, Petroleum Resources, Ibe Kachikwu, said the new price would not be more than N145 per litre.

According to him, the new price regime was part

•NLC, IPMAN, others react

CONTINUED ON PAGE 2>>

N24bn cash receipt:

EFCC arrests Imoke, Imasuen, Ize-Iyamu P.5 How I helped Badeh divert N558.2m P.7 monthly –Witness L-R: Ooni of Ife, Oba Enitan Ogunwusi; his wife, Olori Folasade and former President, Chief Olusegun Obasanjo, during a visit to Chief Obasanjo in Abeokuta, yesterday.

Return stolen assets, Buhari tells Cameron Alleged N9.7bn fraud: EFCC arraigns ex-Air Force chief, Umar

P.4 P.5

APC’s poor performance vindicates me –Sheriff P.42

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Petrol to sell for N145 per litre as FG removes subsidy CONTINUED FROM PAGE 1

of the steps taken by government to end persistent fuel scarcity in the country.

Kachikwu spoke after a stakeholders’ meeting presided over by Vice-President Yemi Osinbajo at the Presidential Villa, Abuja.

According to him, the meeting noted that the main reason for the current persistent fuel scarcity was the inability of importers to source foreign exchange at the official rate because of the massive decline of foreign exchange earnings of the Federal Government.

According to him, private marketers had been unable to meet their approximate 50 per cent portion of total national supply of petrol.

Kachikwu said: “Following a detailed presentation by the Minister of State for Petroleum Resources to the meeting, it has now become obvious that the only option and course of action now open to government is to take the following decisions: “In order to increase and stabilise the supply of the product, any Nigerian entity is now free to import the product, subject to existing quality specifications and other guidelines issued by Regulatory Agencies.

“All oil marketers will be allowed to import PMS on the basis of Forex procured from secondary sources and accordingly, Petroleum Products Pricing Regulatory Agency, PPPRA, template will reflect this in the pricing of the product.

“Pursuant to this, PPPRA has informed me that it will be announcing a new price band effective today, 11th May, 2016 and that the new price for PMS will not be above N145 per litre.

“We expect that this new policy will lead to improved supply and competition and eventually, drive down pump prices, as we have experienced with diesel.

“In addition, this will also lead to increased product availability and encourage investments in refineries and other parts of the downstream sector.

“It will also prevent diversion of petroleum products and set a stable environment for the downstream sector in Nigeria.”

Kachikwu said the government shared the pains of Nigerians but, “the inherited difficulties of the past and the challenges of the current times imply that we must take difficult decisions on these sorts of critical national issues.”

He said along with the

decision, the Federal Government had in the 2016 budget made an unprecedented social protection provisions to cushion the current challenges.

“We believe in the long term, that improved supply and competition will drive down prices.

“The DPR and PPPRA have been mandated to ensure strict regulatory compliance including dealing decisively with anyone involved in hoarding petroleum products,” the minister added.

He said the stakeholders’ meeting had reviewed the current scarcity and supply difficulties in the country and the exorbitant prices being paid by Nigerians for the product.

He said the meeting observed that prices ranged on the average from N150 to N250 per litre.

The meeting had in attendance the leadership of the Senate, House of Representatives, Nigeria Governors’ Forum, NGF, and labour unions, including the Nigerian Labour Congress, NLC, Trade Union Congress, TUC, NUPENG, and PENGASSAN. PPPRA last night said in Abuja that the new price regime had taken effect from yesterday.

But, Nigeria National Petroleum Corporation, NNPC, however, advised its retail stations on the outskirts of major cities to sell at prices lower than N145 per litre.

In a statement, PPPRA said “this review became imperative in the face of extreme difficulties faced by petroleum product importers in sourcing foreign exchange.

“PPPRA is conscious of the difficulties that Nigerians have been going through in the last few

L-R: M.O. Ibrahim of MO Ibrahim Foundation; Secretary of State, UK Department for International Development, Mr. Jusne Greening MP; President Muhammadu Buhari and Secretary-General of Commonwealth, Rt. Hon. Patricia Scotland QC, at the Commonwealth Anti-Corruption Conference for Civil Society, Business and Government Leaders at the Commonwealth Secretariat, Marlborough House, London, yesterday.

PHOTO: STATE HOUSE months and to ameliorate this situation, we shall continue to modulate pricing in accordance with prevailing market dynamics thereby ensuring fair value to all citizens,” it said.

Shortly after the announcement of the new price regime, the price of petroleum shut up to N170 per litre in Osun State.

This was even as many filling stations in Osogbo, the state capital shut their stations to customers.

The development which immediately affected transport fares across the state capital and other major towns in the state, led to many people returning home after the day’s work, trekking long distances.

Meanwhile, mixed reactions have been trailing the government announcement.

Vice President, Inde-

pendent Marketers Association of Nigeria, IPMAN, Alhaji Abubakar Maigandi, commended the Federal Government on the new pump price.

Maigandi said in Abuja yesterday that the decision would help to put to an end to the persistent petrol scarcity in the country.

“This is a good development; the best that will happen is complete removal of the subsidy.

“The price they put is a good one, but the best thing is to leave the market open so that people will decide what they want to sell after importation,” he said.

Nigeria Labour Congress, NLC, in its reaction rejected the new pump price, describing the decision as not only a height of insensitivity, but also crass display of impunity.

In a statement by its

General Secretary, Dr. Peter Ozo-Eson, NLC said it would not accept the new price, calling on its allies in the civil society and the state councils to begin the process of mobilisation for a showdown with government.

He said an emergency meeting of the National Executive Council had been fixed for Friday, to enable the council review the situation with a view to effectively marshaling a plan of action to confront the government moves.

It said the least Nigerian workers would put up with was an increase in petroleum prices after similar increase in electricity tariff without corresponding improvement in power generation and distribution.

The union insisted that the process through which

government arrived at the new price was fraught with anomalies, stressing that PPPRA was not duly constituted.

Comrade Joe Ajaero, a factional President of NLC, said removing subsidy without fulfilling the agreement reached with the unions was nothing but a betrayal.

“We do not in any way support full deregulation of the downstream petroleum sector,” he said.

Executive Secretary, Major Oil Marketers Association of Nigeria, MOMAN, Mr. Obafemi Olawore, said his association supported the move, arguing that it was the right step to liberate the downstream sector.

“It is a step towards deregulation. At MOMAN, we support full deregulation,” he said.

Patients panic as doctors’ strike hits hospitals CONTINUED FROM PAGE 1

were seen at various hospitals visited by our correspondent yesterday, pondering whether to relocate them to other health facilities or allow them to stay.

Asokoro General Hospital, which has always been a beehive of activities, recorded very low presence of people yesterday, following the strike.

But, other employees, comprising consultant doctors, nurses, pharmacists, medical laboratory scientists, among others were seen discharging their duties.

A patient at the Emergen-

cy Ward of the hospital, who gave his name as Emmanuel, said he was comfortable with the treatment given to him by the hospital despite the strike. Emmanuel, however, informed that if the strike lingered, and quality of treatment declined, he would request to be moved to a private hospital.

There were few other patients with him at the ward.

At the Wuse General Hospital, only few patients were seen around 12pm when our correspondent visited.

Survivors of the fire incident that occurred at Jabi area of the city on Tuesday were at the hospital’s Emer-

gency Ward, resting, after receiving treatment from medical workers.

A relative of one of the patients, who did not want to be named, told our correspondent that since his brother escaped the inferno, he would not hesitate to move him to a private hospital.

The Intensive Care Unit, Emergency and other wards at the National Hospital, did not feel the impact of the strike much on the first day.

But patients expressed fear the situation might worsen from today.

“I don’t like what the

doctors are doing. They should consider our plights. We learnt that they took their members who were involved in accident recently to a private hospital. If the hospital staff were on strike, would they have been able to save those that didn’t die? They should not be insensitive to our conditions.

“However, government too must act accordingly.

Things are very hard in the country. We should not put the lives of human beings at risk because of inability to reach an agreement.

“Whatever the doctors want, government should

sit and discuss with them,” a patient at the hospital, Oriola Ayodele, said.

In an interview with our correspondent, Public Relations Officer of the National Hospital, Dr. Tayo Hastrupp, said: “We are 80 per cent covered. Our consultants are working, and other staff are working. It is only the resident doctors that are on strike.

“We haven’t discharged any of our patients. We have always been up to the task. We don’t envisage the strike to be long. So, there is no cause for our patients to be afraid.”

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Return stolen assets, Buhari tells Cameron …wants oil theft designated as international crime Rotimi Fadeyi ABUJA

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resident Muhammadu Buhari yesterday urged Britain to return assets stolen by corrupt officials in pointed remarks after Prime Minister David Cameron described Nigeria as “fantastically corrupt.”

“I am not going to demand any apology from anybody. What I am demanding is the return of the assets,” Buhari said while addressing an anticorruption event in London.

He noted the case of former governor of Bayelsa State, Diepreye Alamieyeseigha, who was detained in London on charges of money laundering in 2005, but skipped bail by disguising himself as a woman.

Alamieyeseigha, who died in October, left behind “his bank account and fixed assets, which Britain is prepared to hand over to us.

This is what I’m asking for,” Buhari said.

“What would I do with an apology? I need something tangible,” he added at the event organised by the Commonwealth secretariat.

Cameron was asked during a parliamentary debate about measures to clamp down on corruption, particularly in the London property market.

“Action is necessary by developed countries as well as developing countries.

“The steps we are taking to make sure that foreign companies that own UK property have to declare who the beneficial owner is will be one of the ways we make sure that plundered money from African countries can’t be hidden in London,” he said.

He also joked about his unguarded comments, telling MPs that “tips on diplomacy are useful, given the last 24 hours” and quipped that “first of all I had better check if the microphone is on before speaking.”

Cameron is hosting a major anti-corruption summit today, which Buhari is attending alongside Afghan President, Ashraf Ghani.

Ahead of the talks, Cameron was caught on camera telling Queen Elizabeth II that the leaders of some “fantastically corrupt” countries were attending, adding that Nigeria and Afghanistan were “possibly the two most corrupt countries in the world.”

The Federal Government described the comments as “embarrassing” and reflected “an old snapshot of Nigeria.”

Buhari also called for the establishment of an international anti-corruption infrastructure that would monitor, trace and facilitate the return of stolen funds.

According to him, the repatriation of identified stolen funds should be done without delay or preconditions.

He also called on the international community to designate oil theft as an international crime similar to the trade in “blood diamonds”, saying it constitutes an imminent and credible threat to the economy and stability of oilproducing countries like Nigeria.

Buhari, while delivering a keynote address titled: “Tackling Corruption Together: A Conference for Civil Society, Business and Government Leaders”, said it was unfortunate that Nigeria’s experience had been that repatriation of corrupt proceeds was very tedious, time consuming, costly and entailed more than just the signing of bilateral or multilateral agreements.

According to him, that should not be the case as there were provisions in the appropriate United Nations Convention that required countries to return assets to where it was proven that they were illegitimately acquired.

While admitting that there were few cases where apparently stringent rules had been applied as a result of threats to national security and the likelihood that certain persons might escape from the country or seek to undermine its stability, Buhari sought support for the prosecution of certain individuals residing in their jurisdictions.

According to him, Nigeria was ready to provide the necessary legal documents and whatever mutual assistance required to secure conviction of such individuals, as well as facilitate the repatriation of stolen assets.

He said: “I admit that there are a few cases where apparently stringent rules have been applied as a result of threats to national security and the likelihood that certain persons may escape from the country or seek to undermine the stability of Nigeria.

“It is for this reason that

L-R: Czech Republic Deputy Minister, Foreign Affairs, Mr. Martin Tlapa; Czech Minister of Agriculture, Mr. Marian Jurecka and Vice-President Yemi Osinbajo, during a courtesy visit to the Vice-President in Abuja, yesterday. we are seeking the support of many countries for the prosecution of certain individuals residing in their jurisdictions.

“Of course we will provide the necessary legal documents and whatever mutual assistance is required to secure conviction of such individuals, as well as facilitate the repatriation of our stolen assets.

“Unfortunately, our experience has been that repatriation of corrupt

proceeds is very tedious, time consuming, costly and entails more than just the signing of bilateral or multilateral agreements.

“This should not be the case as there are provisions in the appropriate United Nations Convention that require countries to return assets to countries from where it is proven that they were illegitimately acquired.

“Further, we are favourably disposed to forging

strategic partnerships with governments, civil society organisations, organised private sector and international organisations to combat corruption.

“Our sad national experience had been that domestic perpetrators of corrupt practices do often work hand-in-hand with international criminal cartels.

“This evil practice is manifested in the plundering and stealing of pub-

lic funds, which are then transferred abroad into secret accounts.

“I therefore, call for the establishment of an international anti-corruption infrastructure that will monitor, trace and facilitate the return of such assets to their countries of origin.

“It is important to stress that the repatriation of identified stolen funds should be done without delay or preconditions.”

Reactions trail fuel subsidy removal Udeme Akpan, Abolaji Adebayo, Udo Onyeka, Francis Ezem, Isaiah Erhiawarien, Segun Koiki

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ajor stakeholders in the Nigerian economy, yesterday described the removal of subsidy as subsequent increase in fuel price as potentially harmful to the economy, at least in the short term.

A former leader of NUPENG, one of the labour groups in the petroleum industry, Mr. Elijah Okugbo, said in a telephone interview that it would make economic sense to embark on partial removal and not complete removal of the subsidy.

Okugbo said total removal would culminate in too much suffering of Nigerians at this time, especially because of high unemployment and under employment.

He called on the leadership of the factionalised Nigerian Labour Congress, NLC to come together in order to engage with the gov-

ernment.

Director General, Lagos Chamber of Commerce and Industry, LCCI, Mr. Muda Yusuf, said the decision to liberalise the petroleum downstream sector was inevitable given the acute resource constraint that the country is faced with now.

He said the overregulation of the sector and the subsidy regime had put enormous pressure on government finances and on the foreign reserves, adding that the review is in the long term interest of the economy and the people.

Yusuf lamented that experiences in the past showed that petroleum subsidy management had been characterised by abuses.

Maritime stakeholders said the increase would fuel inflationary trends in the country, which would also lead to a hike in the cost of doing business at the ports, thus making them less competitive with their peers in the West and Central African sub-region.

Managing Director, KAMANY Marine Resources, an indigenous freight for-

warding, logistics and oil and gas firm, Mr. Charles Okorefe, who spoke in a telephone chat, said though Nigerians have been clamouring for full deregulation of the downstream segment of the oil and gas sector, the increase in the price of the product would bring about hardships at least for now.

He insisted that port service providers such as shipping companies and terminal operators would be left with the only option of hiking their fees and charges on importers, who would in turn increase the prices of goods in order to break even.

Stockbroker and CEO of Highcap Finance and Securities Limited, Mr. David Adonri, said government has still not taken the right decision.

He said the right thing would have been allowing the product to be market driven.

Former president of Association of Telecommunications Companies of Nigeria, ATCON, Lanre Ajayi described the new petrol price as long overdue, and

that he knew that there was no other way government can run the sector without first deregulating it just like as it was done in the telecoms sector.

He said the increase was the right thing any government can do although there will be some difficulty for the people at the initial stage.

Secretary General, Aviation Round Table, ART, and former Murtala Muhammed Airport Commandant, Group Capt John Ojikutu (rtd) expressed skepticism about the quality of Jet A1, otherwise known as aviation fuel that would be imported henceforth due to the directive of government that every oil marketer with license could start to import the product into the country.

Before now, only two major marketers import aviation fuel for Nigeria.

Speaking on phone with our correspondent in Lagos, Ojikutu said the new pump price would not have any direct effect on the aviation industry.

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Alleged N9.7bn fraud: EFCC arraigns ex-Air Force Chief, Umar Doosuur Iwambe Abuja

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ustice Binta Nyako of the Federal High Court sitting in Abuja, yesterday, admitted former Chief of Air Staff, Air Marshal Mohammed Dikko Umar, to bail on self recognition.

The judge also ordered Umar to deposit his International Passport to the Custody of the Deputy Registrar of the court.

Umar was arraigned before the court by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, EFCC, on a seven count charge bordering on money laundering to the tune of N9.7billion during his time as the head of the Nigerian Air Force.

Umar’s counsel, Mr. Hassan Liman (SAN), after the accused had taken plea, informed the court that he has filed and served the defendant’s bail application on May 9 and urged the court to

grant his client bail on liberal terms owing to the fact that he (Umar) had been granted administrative bail by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, EFCC. Liman said the application was supported by a 23 paragraph affidavit and three exhibits and accompanied with a written address.

Prosecution counsel, Sylvanus Tahir, who did not opposed the application for bail, urged the court to grant Umar bail on such terms and conditions that would compel the defendant to attend his trial.

Justice Nyako after listening to both submissions granted the defendant bail on self recognition.

“The defendant having been granted administrative bail by the EFCC, is hereby admitted to bail on self-recognisance and shall deposit his international passport with the Chief Registrar of the court and shall not travel out of the court’s jurisdiction

without permission,” Justice Nyako held.

The case has been adjourned till 7th, 8th and 9th of June for the commencement of trial.

Umar, headed the Nigerian Air Force from September 9, 2010 to October 4, 2012.

The charges against the accused read in part: that you, Air Marshall Mohammed Dikko Umar, whilst being the Chief of Air Staff, Nigerian Air Force between September 2010 to September 2012 in Abuja, within the jurisdiction of this honourable court directly converted the United States dollars equivalent of the aggregate sum of N4.846,630,000,00 (Four billion, eight hundred and six million, six hundred and thirty thousand Naira) only,

removed from the accounts of the Nigerian Air Force, when you reasonably ought to have known that the said funds formed part of the proceeds of your unlawful activity (to wit: Criminal breach of trust and corruption) and you thereby committed an offence contrary to Section 15(2)(b) of the money laundering prohibition Act,2011 as amended and punishable under Section 15(3) of the same Act. That you, Air Marshall Mohammed Dikko Umar, whilst being the Chief of Air Staff, Nigerian Air Force between November and December 2010 in Abuja, within the jurisdiction of this Honourable Court did use the United States Dollars equivalent of the sum of N700,000.000 .00 (Seven hundred million naira) removed

from the accounts of the Nigerian Air Force, to purchase for yourself a property lying and situate at Number 14, Vistula close, off Panama Street, Maitama Abuja; when you reasonably ought to have known that the said funds formed part of the proceeds of the unlawful activity of Air Marshal Mohammed Dikko Umar( to wit: Criminal breach of trust and corruption) and you thereby committed an offence contrary to Section 15(2)(d) of the money laundering prohibition Act, 2011 (as amended) and punishable under Section 15(3) of the same Act. Count three: That you, Air Marshal Mohammed Dikko Umar, whilst being the Chief of Air Staff, Nigerian Air Force between March and April 2012 in Abuja, within the

jurisdiction of the court did use the United States Dollars equivalent of the sum of N860, 000 .000 (Eight hundred and sixty million naira) removed from the accounts of the Nigerian Air Force, to purchase for yourself a property lying and situate at plot Number 1853 Deng Xiano Ping Street, off Mahathir Mohammed Street, Asokoro extension Abuja, when you reasonably ought to have known that the said funds formed part of the proceeds of your unlawful activity, to wit, criminal breach of trust and corruption, and you thereby committed an offence contrary section 15(2)(d) of the Money Laundering Prohibition Act 2011 as amended and punishable under Section 15(3) of the same Act.

N24bn cash receipt: EFCC arrests, Imoke, Imasuen, Ize-Iyamu Marcus Fatunmole Abuja

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conomic and Financial Crimes Commission, EFCC, yesterday arrested former governor of Cross Rivers State, Liyel Imoke, over his role in the N500million said to have been collected by chairman, Cross River State chapter of the Peoples Democratic Party, Ntufam Okon, in the build up to last year’s general election.

Spokesperson of the antigraft agency, Wilson Uwujaren, said in a statement he made available to journalists yesterday, that the money was part of the $115m said to have been lodged in Fidelity Bank Plc, by former Minister of Petroleum Resources, Diezani Alison-Madueke, before last year’s general elections.

In the statement, former Deputy Governor of Edo State, Lucky Imasuen, and a former Secretary to the government of the state, Osagie Ize Iyamu, were also questioned by the EFCC for receiving N700million from the fund.

According to the EFCC, Iyamu, a PDP Presidential Campaign Coordinator in the 2015 presidential election, confirmed he got the money from Fidelity Bank Plc branch on Mission Road, Benin City in March, 2015.

The release added: “He told EFCC’s interrogators

that he went to the bank on that fateful day with Imasuen and a former House of Representatives member representing Edo Central, Tony Azeigbemi who is yet to be arrested by the EFCC and the money was handed over to them by an official of the bank.

Both Imasuen and Iyamu signed for the collection of the money.

“Investigations by the EFCC showed that the two politicians conveyed the money from the bank in a bullion van to the residence of a top politician in Edo State.”

Former Chief of Air Staff, Muhammed Umar, being arraigned at the Federal High Court for breach of trust The commission had last and diversion of fund meant for Nigeria Air Force by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission week detained Managing Di- (EFCC) in Abuja, yesterday. PHOTO ROTIMI OSASONA rector of Sterling Bank, Yemi Adeola over allegation that he received money from the former minister.

Counsel to Saraki Paul in their numbering, but that aware that all land belongs to His arrest and detention Doosuur Iwambe Usoro (SAN), asked the wit- other members of the investi- government under the Land Abuja followed a raid on some of the ness to read to the Tribunal, a gating team did and reported Use Act. branches of the bank in Lagos he trial of Senate Presi- letter from one of the bidders back to him.

He insisted that the 2006 State last Wednesday by the dent Bukola Saraki con- of the said properties to the A member of CCT panel team investigation report statcommission’s officials. tinued on Wednesday at committee, indicating that asked the witness how he ed that 15A and 15 B belong to The EFCC which had also the Code of Conduct Tribu- the numbering of the proper- came to the conclusion that Saraki, but the Energy Mafortnight ago arrested Manag- nal, CCT, with ambiguity over ties was ambiguous.

15a and 15b are same as rine Resource Limited stated ing Director of Fidelity Bank, the ownership of properties According to the letter, the Number 15 and Block 15, that houses 15a and 15b belong Mr. Nnamdi Okonkwo, over his alleged to have been bought properties were labelled 15a MacDonald Street, Ikoyi La- to a different person. role in $115 million cash lodg- by the Senate President from MacDonald Street, Ikoyi, 15b, gos, Wetkas said he was not Wetkas said that his team ments he allegedly received the Federal Government.

MacDonald Street, Ikoyi and conversant with how proper- did not invite Energy Refrom Mrs Alison-Madueke.

At the resumed hearing Block 15, McDonald Street, ties are numbered, but as an source Limited in the course Similarly, the EFCC has yesterday, the prosecution Ikoyi, behind another plot of investigator, he often relied of investigation, saying that been on the trail of Ugonna, witness, Michael Wetkas, told land labelled Number 15 Mac- on the replies from the Lagos his team does have not control son of Mrs Alison-Madueke, the Justice Danladi Yakubu donald Street, Ikoyi, all in La- State Land Registry and the over properties in Ikoyi that over his alleged roles in dis- Umar- led Tribunal, under gos State.

Presidential Committee on are outside the team’s term of bursement of $115 to officials cross-examination that the When the witness was the Sale of Federal Govern- reference. of Independent National Elec- properties sold to the Sen- asked whether the Economic ment Houses, which he said The Senate President is toral Commission, INEC, and ate President was privately and Financial Crimes Com- wrote to say that 15a, 15b and standing trial over allegation election monitors in the build- owned as against the earlier mission, EFCC, invited the the one behind the Number 15 bordering on false asset decup to last year presidential claim that the properties were writer of the letter, Energy were the same. laration slammed against him election. bought from the Presidential Marine Limited to explain The EFCC witness further by the Federal Government.

Arrest of Ugonna was ini- Implementation Committee the content, he said no and said he did not asked the PresThe matter was adjourned tially believed would be instru- for the Sales of Government also added that he did not vis- idential Committee to show till next week Tuesday for conmental to arresting persons Houses. it the properties in question him the property because tinuation of cross examinainvolved in the case. to ascertain the discrepancies there was no need as he was tion by the defence.

Saraki’s trial: Ambiguity over properties bought by Senate President

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L-R: President, Academy for Entrepreneurial Studies, (AES), Mr. Ausbeth Ajagu; Chairman of the occasion and President, Lagos Chamber of Commerce and Industry, Chief (Mrs.) Nike Akande; representative of the Chief of Naval Staff, Rear Adm. Kenneth Ati-John and representative of Lagos Governor, Mr. Babatunde Durosimi, at the 7th Annual Conference of AES in Lagos yesterday. PHOTO:NAN L-R: Wife of the Pastor-in-Charge, Lagos Province 16, Redeemed Christian Church of God (RCCG), Pastor (Mrs.) Bola Kpandei; Special Assistant to the General Overseer, RCCG on Women Affairs / Pastor-in-Charge, Region 11, Pastor (Mrs.) Oretayo Adetola; Executive Secretary, Amuwo Odofin Local Government, Deaconess Modupe Ajibola-Ojodu; Executive Secretary, Apapa Local Government, Mrs. Bolaji Dada and Pastor-in-Charge, Lagos Province 16, Pastor Charles Kpandei, during the commissioning/dedication of “Lively Women Maternity Home”, Ibasa Town, Lagos State, yesterday.

L-R: Head, Business Development, Stanbic IBTC Asset Management Ltd (SIAML), Mr. Babalola Obilana; Chief Executive, SIAML, Mrs. Bunmi Dayo-Olagunju and Chief Executives, Progsco Wise Global Ltd, Mr. and Mrs. Godson Osuagwu, at SIAML’s client engagement dinner in Abuja, recently.

L-R, Regional Coordinator, West Africa, Transparency International Mr. Samuel Kaninda, Chairman, Civil Society Legislative Advocacy Centre Mr. Yunusa Zakari and representative, Vice President, Prof Femi Odekunle during the Multi-Stakeholder Dialogue on Empowering Institutions and Citizens for a Successful Fight against Corruption in Nigeria held in Abuja, yesterday: PHOTO ROTIMI OSASONA

National News

Crude export drops by 150,000 bpd …as SPDC suspends Bonny Light production

Udeme Akpan

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he nation’s crude oil export has dropped by 150,000 per day as Shell Petroleum Development Company, SPDC, has suspended Bonny Light production.

The stoppage was as a result of increased hostilities in the Niger Delta, which makes the region unsafe for operations, the company said in a statement yesterday.

“Shell Petroleum Development Company of Nigeria Ltd, SPDC, declared force majeure on Bonny Light exports effective 12:00hrs Nigerian Time, 10th May 2016, following a leak that led to the closure of Nembe Creek Trunk line for repairs by the operator, AITEO Eastern E & P Company Ltd,” the state-

ment said.

Consequently, crude oil prices rose slightly in the international market yesterday.

For instance, the price of Brent, which is usually used to benchmark other prices rose from $45.04 to $45.52 per barrel.

The price of WTI also rose from $44.09 to $44.66 per barrel.

Despite the leap in prices, there are indications that the nation may not generate much in terms of revenue because of low output.

It was learnt that the nation’s output is currently hovering at less than 2.0 million per day.

The Federal Government, in the 2016 budget, expects production of 2.2 million barrels per day at $38 per barrel.

However, the compa-

ny’s action was expected earlier in the week when it made it public that many officials were being withdrawn from the Niger Delta.

Investigations showed that the action was taken as its security report indicated that it was not safe anymore to keep personnel at the various locations in the region.

A source in the company who preferred not to be named said: “We value our personnel more than any other single resource. That is why we have decided to withdraw them from the region.

“The staff are very important to us and we cannot afford to sacrifice them at the altar of oil production.

“We have already informed the government

about our decision and would continue to watch the region as well as work with others to ensure that peace returns to the region.”

Shell, it was gathered, has been evacuating workers from Bonga since last weekend.

“The evacuation is being done in categories of workers and cadres,” Cogent Ojobor, chairman of the Warri branch of NUPENG said. “My members are yet to be evacuated.”

A Shell spokesman said earlier that oil output was continuing at its oil fields while it was monitoring the security situation.

Earlier, Vice President, Yemi Osinbajo had also met with executives from Shell, France’s Total, and Italy’s Agip and Chevron.

2 Nigerians, 8 other foreigners among 15 convicts to be executed in Indonesia

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en foreigners, including two Nigerians, were among 15 convicts on death row in Indonesia scheduled to be put to death.

Liliek Darmanto, Central Java Police spokesman, confirmed that authorities were preparing a new round of executions.

He said one Pakistani, two Nigerians, two Senegalese, one Zimbabwean and four Chinese nationals, were among those to be executed.

“There are five Indonesians, one woman and four men and there are 10 foreign citizens,” he said.

Darmanto said among other foreigners on death row for drug trafficking were Mary-Jane Veloso from the Philippines, Lindsay Sandiford from Britain and Frenchman Serge Atlaoui, but did not clear if they were among those scheduled

to be put to death.

He said no date for the execution had been set, but that 150 police shooters had been appointed to carry out the task.

“They have practiced for days, so that the execution can be conducted any time,” he added.

Under Indonesian law, each convict would face a squad of 10 shooters.

Last year Indonesia executed 14 convicts, all but two of them foreigners, in a move that drew international condemnation.

At least 121 people are currently on death row in Indonesia, including 35 foreigners, mostly convicted of drug-related crimes, according to the Justice Ministry.

President Joko Widodo, who took office in 2014, has taken a tough stance against drug trafficking, saying that the country was facing a drug emergency.

National Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

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NEWS

Thursday, May 12, 2016

SERAP wants UK to extradite Alison-Madueke

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L-R: Coordinator, Manufacturers Power Development Company (MPDC) Mr. Owoh Mba-Sam; Chairman MPDC, Mr. Ibrahim Usman; Director, Mr. John Aluya and Director MPDC, Alhaji Ali Madugu, at the Manufactures Power Development Company Stakeholders Forum in Lagos, yesterday. PHOTO:NAN

How I helped Badeh divert N558.2m monthly – Witness Doosuur Iwambe ABUJA

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r Emmanuel Abu, a cashier with the Nigerian Air Force (NAF) Camp, Mogadishu Cantonment, the second prosecution witness in the ongoing trial of former Chief of Defense Staff, Alex Badeh, over allegation of fraud yesterday told a Federal High Court in Abuja the role he played in the alleged monthly diversion of N558.2m from NAF accounts by Badeh.

Abu, who was testifying as the second prosecution witness in Badeh’s ongoing trial, said he routinely converted the N558.2m to dollars which the prosecution alleged was being handed over to the former Air Force chief monthly.

The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, EFCC, is prosecuting Badeh alongside a firm, Iyalikam Nigeria Limited, on 10 counts of money laundering bordering on alleged fraudulent removal of about N3.97bn from the Nigerian Air Force’s account. ‎The anti-graft agency accused Badeh of using the fund to buy and develop landed assets in Abuja for himself and two sons between January and December 2013.

Abu stepped into the witness box after the first prosecution wit-

ness, a former Director of Finance and Account of the Nigerian Air Force, Air Commodore Aliyu Yishau (retd), completed his testimony on Wednesday.

Yishau had testified about how he was handing over the dollar equivalent of the N558.2m to Badeh at the Chief of Air Staff ’s official residence on monthly basis and also how he helped Badeh to use the money to acquire landed assets in Abuja.

Abu, who was led in evidence by the lead prosecuting counsel, Mr. Rotimi Jacobs (SAN), on Wednesday said he converted the sum of N558.2m monthly removed from NAF’s Personnel and Emolument account for 14 months between November 2012 and December 2013.

He said within the 14-month period, a total of over N7.8bn was set aside and converted to dollars.

Abu explained that he and the Financial Officer at the headquarters of the Nigerian Air Force Camp, Mogadishu Cantonment, Asokoro, Abuja, Group Captain Mohammed Lawal Sini, (now Air Commodore), were the only signatories to the six accounts operated by NAF. He said Sini gave him the instruction for the monthly setting aside

of the N558.2m immediately he (Sini) became the Financial Officer in November 2014, about a month after Badeh assumed the office of the Chief of Air Staff.

He explained that the N558.2m was the monthly leftover in the Personnel and Emolument account of the NAF after the payment of staff salaries and entitlements.

He said after paying staff salaries, the leftover was usually transferred to the other five accounts of the Nigerian Air Force to augment NAF’s overhead and expenditures.

But he said no voucher was ever raised for its disbursement as it was done for other disbursement from other accounts of the NAF.

F.O.U. Customs impounds N668m goods in 4 months

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ederal Operations Unit (F.O.U.) of Nigeria Customs Service, Zone `A’ Ikeja, Lagos, has intercepted goods with a Duty Paid Value (DPV) of N668.3 million between January and April 2016.

The Controller, Federal Operations Unit Zone ‘A’, Comptroller Umar Dahiru, said this in a statement by the Public Relations Officer of the unit, Mr Uche Ejesieme, on Wednesday in Lagos.

Dahiru said the unit impounded goods valued at N428.66 million in the same period of 2015.

He said 42 suspects were apprehended in connection with the seizures.

The controller said the breakdown of the seizures included rice, frozen poultry products, vegetable oil, 32 units of vehicles, 12 buses, gener-

al merchandise comprising new and used textile materials.

Dahiru said other seizures were new and used foot wears, insecticides, spaghetti noodles, various soaps and detergents, used tyres, narcotics, compressors, hard drugs and Indian hemp.

The controller said the items were seized in line with Sections 46 and 47 of the Customs & Excise Management Act CAP C45 LFN 2004; on “Forfeiture of goods improperly imported and Penalty for improper importation of goods.’’

The controller expressed his appreciation for the support from the top officers of the service, especially the Comptroller-General of Customs, Col. Hameed Ali (rtd) and his able lieutenants.

civil society group, Socio-Economic Rights and Accountability Project, SERAP, yesterday requested the British authorities to extradite former Petroleum Minister, Mrs Diezani Alison-Madueke, to face trial in Nigeria.

The call came against the backdrop of the hosting of International Anticorruption Summit in London scheduled to commence on May 12.

The group said in a statement in Lagos that the UK should not provide “sanctuary” for Nigerian corrupt public officials or condone their impunity.

“The anti-corruption summit in London provides an important opportunity for the UK government to support the ongoing fight against corruption in Nigeria.

“It is also to send a powerful message that the UK will not provide sanctuary for corrupt public officials or condone impunity.

“As a party to the UN Convention against Corruption, the UK government can use the convention as a basis for the extradition of Mrs Alison-

Madueke to Nigeria.

“We urge the Nigerian authorities to without delay submit a request to the UK authorities for the extradition of Alison-Madueke, explicitly making the point that Nigeria will guarantee her a due process trial.

“The Nigerian authorities should also consider filing a civil action against Alison-Madueke in the UK courts,” the statement signed by the Executive Director of SERAP, Mr Adetokunbo Mumuni, said.

“The allegations of corruption against her are strong enough for Prime Minister David Cameron to facilitate an extradition proceeding.”

The association also called on the UK Prime Minister to crack down on the country’s financial institutions that continued to provide “havens for corrupt funds” from Nigeria.

According to SERAP, “It is also important for Mr Cameron to work towards improving judicial cooperation between Nigeria and the UK if stolen assets stashed in the UK are to be fully repatriated.”

Theologians caution FG against closing varsities Odinaka Uruakpa

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ssociation of Christian Theologians, ACTS, has cautioned the Federal Government not to carry out its threat of closing degreeawarding Bible colleges in Nigeria, claiming that staff would lose jobs and students unable to achieve their biblical and theological academic dreams.

Giving the charge through its president, Prof. Kunle Macaulay, at a press conference tagged ‘Claiming Christian Academy and legitimacy in Nigeria,’ the association said due to the secularity of Nigeria, Christian and religious education do not fall into the category to be regulated by National Universities Commission, NUC. “Considering the secularity of Nigeria, we believe that state and federal governments, including their agents, have no constitutional right to decide what the church in Nigeria should teach and preach or how bible colleges should train, grade and certify Christian experts and church professionals.

It is embarrassing that NUC complains about bible colleges awarding degrees and offering professorship to their scholars without finding out the disciplines concerned,” he said.

Macaulay said there is no need for bible and theological colleges to submit to NUC’s accreditation because section 38 of the constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria guarantees the right to freedom of thought, conscience and religion.

While recounting his ordeal and detention recently by the Independent Corrupt Practices and other related matters Commission, Macaulay claimed that these schools prepare Christian scholars and church professionals for the work of church in Nigeria; therefore, those accusing them of running illegal universities do so out of indolence and ignorance.

The theologian further claimed that the bible and theological profession is ordained

by God who has commissioned Christians to preach and teach the Word as controlled by the Holy Spirit.

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Thursday, May 12, 2016

National Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

Export promotion: FG targets investment in jute bag production

FETHI workers bar Ekiti governor from facility

Femi Oyeweso

Abiodun Nejo

ABEOKUTA

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ederal Government yesterday called on genuine investors, both local and foreign to harness the vast investment opportunities available in jute bag production which will enhance opportunities for promoting exports in agricultural products from Nigeria.

Minister of Agriculture and Rural Development, Audu Ogbeh, made the call while delivering a paper at the close of the third edition of the Ogun State Investors’ Forum which came to an end yesterday in Abeokuta, the state capital.

The minister said the call was part of efforts towards promoting agricultural products worldwide, which he described as moving away from the use of “polypropylene bags” in packaging food items.

Ogbeh added that Nigeria is mindful of the standard practice worldwide, which is now through a carbon-free packaging item for which production of jute bags through kernaf as its raw material will enhance the chances of agricultural produce from Nigeria.

The minister, who emphasised that Nigeria was open to investment in jute bags production, added that such investments would not

only create thousands of farm jobs for the nation’s youths, but also help to ensure that agricultural products pass the international certification, quality control and packaging tests.

The minister explained that this would save people from the harmful effects of foods packaged in polypropylene bags and also enable farmers in Nigeria have adequate returns on their harvests.

“Our priority is addressing meaningfully and decisively the topical issues of certification, quality control and packaging, which have either led to under-pricing or rejection of some of our agricultural exports in time past.

“Part of it entails replacing the use of polypropylene bags with jute bags for packaging. This, hopefully, should lead to the creation of thousands of on-farm jobs through the production of kernaf as raw materials for making jute bags. This is a huge window of opportunity for inflow of investment.

“We are mindful that the good practice worldwide, now is not to export produce except in carbon-free packaging items. Hence, we are determined to ensure that our agricultural products increasingly pass the certification, quality control and packaging tests.”

ADO EKITI

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rotesting workers of the Federal Teaching Hospital, Ido-Ekiti, FETHI, yesterday prevented the state governor access to the medical facility.

The governor had gone to FETHI to broker truce between the Chief Medical Director, Dr Lawrence Ayodele and the workers, who insisted on the CMD’s removal for alleged insensitivity over the death of three doctors of the institution in an accident last month and sundry issues bordering on their welfare.

The placard-carrying protesters, who blocked the

main gate and used a bus belonging to the hospital to block the way, held the governor hostage at the gate for over one hour at the gate where he addressed the workers before he turned back.

Monarchs, who were at the place to be part of the truce, also left after frustration under the scorching sun.

The protesters displayed three mock coffins at the main gate with the inscription ‘R.I.P. Dr Majekodunmi Ayodele,’ with the photograph of the CMD affixed to each of the wooden coffin.

It took the interventions of the chairmen, Associa-

tion of Resident Doctors, Dr Austin Ibikunle and Nigerian Union of Allied Health Workers, Mr Efe Asagba, to pacify the workers who brandished leaves before the governor was allowed to address the protesters.

The governor, who identified with the cause of the protesting workers, pleaded with them to allow patients be treated in the hospital in the interest of the people.

He said: “But as you stage this protest, I want to plead that you allow patients who need medical care to be treated here in the interest of our wellbeing.”

The governor also called on the police and the De-

partment of State Services to work hand-in-hand and prevent the protest from being hijacked or escalates.

The governor called on the Federal Government through the Ministry of Health to remove the embattled CMD, saying he had earlier told Ayodele that he had not been fair in managing the hospital, particularly on issues bordering on workers’ welfare.

Earlier, the ARD chairman described Ayodele as too high-handed and immature to manage the hospital.

He said: “The CMD has become a former CMD. He has been sacked and he has gone forever.”

Oyo residents to pay for refuse collection –Ajimobi Kemi Olaitan IBADAN

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yo State governor, Abiola Ajimobi, yesterday told residents of the state to prepare to pay for the refuse being generated daily.

Ajimobi insisted that the regime of spending tax payers’ N30 million monthly for refuse disposal had ended.

He said the policy shift became necessary following observation that the state was gradually returning to the old order when it was adjudged one of the dirtiest state capitals in the country.

The governor read the riot act at a meeting with refuse collectors, local government chairmen, environmental sanitation officers and management of West African Energy, a waste-towealth contracting firm, at the House of Chiefs, Ibadan.

According to him, the new policy is targeted at sustaining the environmental cleanliness credentials of his administration, as well as employment

generation and wealth creation.

Ajimobi then used the occasion to charge the over 300 refuse collectors, otherwise called Private Sector Partners, PSPs, to work in tandem with the regulations set by the contractor engaged by the government for refuse management.

He called for synergy among the collectors for better efficiency, assuring them of government’s continued support through provision of trucks and other logistics.

He assured the waste managers that government had embarked on enlightenment campaign to engender attitudinal change and the need for the people to comply with the new order of paying stipends for the refuse they generate.

The Chief Operating Officer of West African Energy, Ms. Ololade Oresanwo, assured refuse collectors of her firm’s cooperation and preparedness to do business with them.

L-R) Mrs. Bola Obasanjo, wife of former President Olusegun Obasanjo; Chief Audu Ogbeh, Minister of Agriculture and Rural Development; Ogun State Governor, Senator Ibikunle Amosun and his wife, (Dr) Mrs. Olufunso Amosun at the 2016 Ogun State Investors’ Forum on Wednesday

TSA: Lagos saves N6bn in 11 months Francis Suberu

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he adoption and implementation of the Treasury Single Account, TSA in Lagos has helped the state to save N5.990 billion, says the Commissioner for Finance, Dr. Mustapha Akinkunmi.

Briefing the press, the commissioner said TSA has brought greater transparency to Lagos’ finances, even as it had come to stay in the state.

According to Akinkunmi, the implementation of TSA has led to increased Internally Generated Revenue, IGR, through seamless revenue generation and collection, and im-

proved cash management in Lagos which resulted in the saving of the amount.

He noted that the present administration has successfully re-engineered the state’s outstanding internal loans to reduce burden on IGR and technically saved N3.8 billion per month, saying it has been applied continually for capital projects.

“This was achieved by re-negotiating interest rates from an average of 18% monthly (N5.35 billion monthly payment) to 12.5% (N1.52 billion monthly payment). The state restructured its outstanding bonds from bullet payment to amortising payment to reduce debt service, resulting in huge savings recorded from this initiative.

“Through this, we have also achieved savings of over N500 million in monthly contributions to Consolidated Debt Service Account (CDSA) and over N40 billion saved in interest payments over the lifetime of the instruments.”

The commissioner said the state won virtually unanimous approval for the restructuring at the Bondholders’ Extraordinary General Meeting, showing the continued strong relationship between Lagos and the capital market, noting that such feat affirms continued confidence in the strength of the state’s creditworthiness.

In spite of competing sectors for the limited

funds, he said the Governor Akinwunmi Ambodeled government has ensured prompt payment of all employees’ salaries on or before 23rd day of every month with the payment of September 2015 salary on 17th of that month before Sallah break, and payment of March salary on the 22nd before the Easter holiday.

“The state government facilitated the opening of the N6.25billion Lagos State Employment Trust Fund Account which will allow youths and unemployed citizens have access to adequate finance for entrepreneurial ventures in line with the initiative and campaign promises of His Excellency,” he said.

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South East

Thursday, May 12, 2016

National Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

NYSC to prosecute corps members, institutions manipulating postings Chris Njoku and Joel Ajayi

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irector-General of the National Youth Service Corps, NYSC, Brigadier-General Johnson Olawumi, yesterday warned prospective corps members and corpsproducing institutions to desist from providing false information to manipulate their postings.

He said any person or tertiary institution caught involved in such irregularities as falsification of medical and marriage documents as well as provision of false information to manipulate their postings should desist forthwith or be prepared to face consequences of their action.

The NYSC DG read the riot act at the opening ceremony of the NYSC 2016 Batch “A” pre-mobilisation workshop with the theme: ‘The role of stakeholders in sustaining the gains of the NYSC computerised mobilisation process’ held in Owerri, the Imo State capital.

Olawumi also warned that the situation where parents request concessional postings for their children on health or marital grounds when such information was not provided during the online registration exercise would not be accepted.

According to him, the

mobilisation workshop is a forum that provides opportunity for NYSC management and the stakeholders in the mobilisation process to interface and to review past mobilisation activities with a view to finding solutions to the challenges encountered during the process.

“In furtherance of this effort, the NYSC scheme in 2014 Batch “C” service year made a paradigm shift in the mobilisation process when it became fully computerised. Apart from the case of registration at the camps, prospective corps members have been saved from the cost and danger of distant travels to their institutions to collect call-up letters. More importantly, the computerisation programme has brought credibility and transparency in the NYSC mobilisation process by eliminating the issue of ghost or fake corps members,” he explained.

Olawumi therefore appealed to the Imo State government for the speedy completion of the NYSC permanent orientation camp in the state.

Governor Rochas Okorocha, whilst declaring the workshop open, noted that the NYSC scheme put in place 43 years ago by the defunct General Yakubu

Gowon administration had continued to promote national unity and integration among the various ethnic groups.

The governor, who decried the upsurge in youth unemployment in the coun-

Enugu

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overnor Ifeanyi Ugwuanyi of Enugu State has commended President Muhammadu Buhari and the country’s armed forces for their gallantry and success in securing the country’s shores.

In an address at the 2016 launching of the Armed Forces Remembrance and Emblem Appeal Week in Enugu, Governor Ugwuanyi assured them of his administration’s solidarity and goodwill, urging them not to relent.

He called on all Nigerians to pray for the Nigerian Army for the sustenance of their success in fighting insurgency in the country.

The governor called on all Nigerians to keep faith and commitment with the country’s fallen heroes, who voluntarily laid down their

lives in the service of their fatherland by donating either in cash or kind for the upkeep of these veterans’ dependants and the ex-servicemen who are lucky to be alive but are in need.

Ugwuanyi also commended the Enugu State branch of the Nigerian Legion for her initiative and giant strides to rehabilitate their fallen colleagues.

He said, “It is a time to remind ourselves of the plight of the ex-servicemen as well as the survival of the dependants of these fallen heroes and show them our appreciation for the sacrifice they made to preserve our lives and the nation.”

In his address, the State Chairman of the Nigerian Legion, Enugu State council, Engr. George Amalu, noted that the event was set aside for the remembrance of Nigeria’s fallen heroes

Also, the Director, Corps Mobilisation Department, Mr. Anthony Ani, explained that the pre-mobilisation workshop provides critical stakeholders the opportunity to assess the level of implementation of the

resolutions of the previous pre-mobilisation workshop, review the past exercise, identify challenges and proffer water-tight solutions with a view to achieving a seamless mobilisation process.

L-R: Deputy Corps Marshal, Training, (FRSC) Ademola Lawal; Corps Marshal, Boboye Oyeyemi; Deputy Corps Marshal, Operations, Adei Abu and Head Media Relations and Strategy, Bisi Kazeem, during FRSC Capacity Building‎ Workshop for Zonal and Sector Heads of Operations in Enugu, yesterday.

Onitsha chief blames Nnamdi Kanu for woes Gloria Anaeze, Onitsha

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ne of the contestants to the throne of Obi of Onitsha, High Chief Lawrence Godwin Odukwe, yesterday said Nnamdi Kanu, leader

Anti-insurgency: Ugwuanyi lauds Buhari, army Emmanuel Ezeh

try, enjoined the NYSC management to evolve measures that would encourage self reliance among corps members after their service years to stem the tempo of juvenile delinquency among the rising generations.

who voluntarily laid down their lives in the service of their fatherland.

He added that the ex-servicemen who were lucky to be alive but were either in need due to infirmity or old age were also remembered during the period under review.

He appealed to all wellspirited individuals to donate for the upkeep of these war veterans and fallen heroes’ dependants either in cash or kind.

The chairman enumerated the challenges facing the legion in the state among which are lack of annual subventions to the legion.

He further requested both the federal and state governments to offer scholarships to indigent children of the fallen heroes and to absorb qualified ones into the state civil service.

of the Indigenous People of Biafra, IPOB, is the architect of his own trouble.

He described Kanu’s abusive words and speeches through Radio Biafra as unnecessary and uncalled for, adding that it amounts to fanning the embers of war.

Odukwe, who stated these during the celebration of his golden jubilee wedding in Onitsha, reiterated: “I feel very bad on this their agitation for a sovereign state of Biafra.

“Igbos suffered during the war; (now) younger men who never knew what war

looks like (have) started talking war.”

He however admitted that the South East zone is marginalised but advised on a roundtable discussion instead of being confrontational over the poor condition of the zone.

“We don’t have the right to breach the norms, the unity of Nigeria,” he warned.

Odukwe stressed the need for the Igbo to be at the same level with other ethnic groups and states, adding that the infrastructural decay is a source of worry that

prompted the agitation.

“We have to be at equal level and contest with others. Look at South East roads; the money belongs to us all. Kanu put himself in this incarceration mess,” Odukwe stated.

On his wedding, he thanked God for the attainment, adding that it was achieved through prayer, perseverance, love and hard work.

“There is no golden rule about life, if you want a broken home it is very easy but hard to resolve or amend.”

Gunmen kill businessman in Ebonyi Aliuna Godwin, Abakaliki

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otorious gunmen yesterday killed one businessman whose name could not be ascertained when filing this report in Amasiri, Afikpo North local government area of Ebonyi State.

It was gathered that the hoodlums, numbering four, had robbed a warehouse in the area before proceeding to the shop of the businessman and shot him.

An eyewitness told journalists on condition of unanimity that the gun-

men invaded the place, shooting in the air to scare people way, grabbed their victim before shooting him dead.

The source noted that the businessman was rushed to the hospital where he was confirmed dead.

Another eyewitness, who is a resident of the area, Amadi Clement, told National Mirror that the hoodlums shot sporadically to scare people away, before they commenced operation.

He added that the Afikpo Divisional Police command was contacted

and a team of policemen stormed the area, but failed to catch the robbers who had already fled.

The state Police Public Relations Officer, PPRO, ASP George Okafor, who confirmed the incident, dismissed the claim that the hoodlums robbed a warehouse and other shops, adding that a team of policemen from the area command and highway repelled robbery attack on some shops in the area.

He said one person was shot by the hoodlums and that the victim died on the way to hospital.

National Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

South South

Thursday, May 12, 2016

11

Herdsmen attacks: Joint security operatives comb Delta communities Nosa Akenzua ASABA

A Delta State Governor Ifeanyi Okowa (2nd-r); Deputy Governor Kingsley Otuaro (r), and others during the PDP State congress in Asaba Delta State.

Insecurity: Dickson summons community elders ….says we don’t want Odi episode again ...condemns murder of security agents

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ayelsa State governor, Seriake Dickson, has condemned the recent unprovoked attack and killing of four security personnel in Nembe Creek and three naval personnel in Foropa community in Nembe and Southern Ijaw local government areas of the state and other parts of the Niger Delta.

According to him, such unwarranted attacks on the nation’s security personnel were putting the state and region in bad light.

As part of steps to check the unwholesome trend and improve the security situation in the state, he said community leaders, elders and other stakeholders would soon be summoned to a meeting.

Dickson in a statement by his Chief Press Secretary, Daniel Iworiso-Markson, expressed regret over the unfortunate incident.

He therefore called on the perpetrators of the dastardly killings and their collaborators to stop it with immediate

effect.

“Terrorism does not favour peace, neither can democracy express itself through violence,” he stressed.

The governor’s condemnation came on the heels of President Muhammadu Buhari’s order that the military go on a manhunt for the perpetrators and clamp down on all security threats in the Niger Delta.

He stated that the killings also put innocent lives in the state and region at risk.

He warned that Bayelsa State government does not want a replay of the Odi massacre in 1999, during the administration of ex-President Olusegun Obasanjo, where only the innocent people suffered the brunt of the military invasion.

The governor called on community leaders and other stakeholders to check the activities of youths in their domains.

Dickson, however, said the government was already working in concert with the security agents to bring the culprits to book and forestall any future occurrence.

N700m bribe: Edo PDP aspirant in EFCC custody O nezena A bbey BENIN

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conomic and Financial Crimes Commission, EFCC, on Tuesday summoned a Peoples’ Democratic Party governorship aspirant in Edo State, Pastor Osagie Ize-Iyamu, for alleged financial impropriety to the tune of N700million in relation to bribery of Independent National Electoral Commission, INEC, officials during the 2015 general elections.

A source close to EFCC’s office in Port Harcourt, who confirmed this, said the aspirant

was granted administrative bail (Wednesday) and would appear on a later date already communicated to him.

“He thought he could secure his bail on Tuesday night but you know the investigation here is always thorough and detailed and we had to keep him till yesterday (Wednesday).”

“He was questioned over N700 million allegedly disbursed to Edo State for the 2015 general elections.

Ize-Iyamu, who was the state coordinator of President Goodluck Jonathan Campaign Organisation, told newsmen on phone that he has explained to the an-

ti-graft agency what he knows about the money.

Only recently, some officials of INEC were investigated for allegedly being compromised during the 2015 election by some powerful politicians in the then ruling party, to manipulate the election in its favour.

The PDP frontline gubernatorial aspirant last week accused Governor Adams Oshiomhole of dissipating over N1 trillion from the Federation Account since he came to power in 2008 and decried high taxes which Edo people have be subjected to under the All Progressive Congress, APC, admin-

istration in the state.

Meanwhile, the state government has urged the PDP gubernatorial aspirant to sort out his problems with EFCC and stop displaying crass ignorance of the workings of government and modern development.

In a statement, the Commissioner for Information, Prince Kassim Afegbua, said IzeIyamu should be more concerned about defending the charges leveled at him by EFCC on the N700 million illicit campaign funds collected by him to prosecute the re-election of former President Jonathan.

combined team of military and police operatives yesterday intensified efforts in various communities in Delta State, especially Obiaruku, Okpanam, Ibusa, Kwale and environs over Fulani herdsmen’s relocation and alleged threats to inhabitants of the areas.

While the group has reportedly gone into hiding for fear of the unknown in Warri, Gbaramutu metropolis in Warri South West local government area of the state, investigations reveal that the joint security forces, including vigilante groups, have spread their dragnets to all strategic points in operational areas of the herdsmen including the Hausa cattle market along Sapele/Agbor Road Obiaruku in order to curb any attempt at mayhem.

A vigilante group member in Obiaruku who gave his name as Edward Ogeh, told our correspondent that three suspected herdsmen were arrested on Tuesday night in the forest with arms and handed over to police in the area.

But police commissioner, Alkali Baba Usman, told journalists in Asaba that the security operatives in line with President Muhammadu Buhari’s orders, were working with a view to protect lives and properties in the state following alleged threats by the herdsmen and their relocation to various communities in the state.

He said: “We are acting on instruction to ensure peace is maintained in these areas despite alleged threats by this suspected armed Fulani herdsmen. We will also ensure lives and properties of the people are secured.”

Further investigation revealed that herdsmen who allegedly invaded Abraka community and environs relocated to Obiaruku community after fierce battle with the angry youths, who allegedly engaged them in gun battle with no life lost.

Since their invasion of Obiaruku community, people of the area now live in fear, with some residents already abandoning their homes to take refuge in neigbouring communities.

Edo legislature summons BEDC over estimated bills

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anaging Director of the Benin Electricity Distribution Company, BEDC, Mrs Funke Osibodu, has been summoned by Edo State House of Assembly.

The Speaker, Mrs Elizabeth Ativie, gave the directive when protesters, under the aegis of Network of Civil Society of Nigeria, visited the Assembly in Benin on Wednesday.

Osibodu was asked to appear before the House on May 12 over alleged extortion of electricity consumers in the state with estimated bills.

Mr Abraham Oviawe, who led the protesters to the Assembly, said BEDC overbills consumers through estimated bills.

Oviawe therefore appealed to the House to intervene in the matter as it

had brought untold hardship on the people.

The Speaker described the protest as timely, adding, “the state governor had in the past made concerted efforts to call the management of BEDC to order.’’

Ativie urged BEDC to regulate the billing system to reflect transparency.

“I want to commend your effort today for representing the voiceless in the society.

“It is good that you have brought this issue of estimated billing system used to exploit Nigerians to the attention of the public,’’ Ativie said.

She assured the protesters that the members of the House would join in demanding for fair, accurate and transparent process in billing electricity consumers in the state.

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North

Wednesday, May 4, 2016

National Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

Over 350 herdsmen killed by security agents–Miyetti Allah James Danjuma Katsina

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ore than 350 herdsmen have allegedly been killed by security agents in the last one year in Katsina and Zamfara states.

Miyetti Allah, a Fulani socio- cultural organisation, made the claim yesterday, while speaking with newsmen in Katsina State.

Speaking on behalf of the organisation, chairman of the group in the state, Mannir Atiku Lamido, lamented that several herdsmen had died without committing any crime.

Lamido said that over 300 houses and properties worth several millions of

naira were burnt or destroyed within the same period.

He said of the more than 350 herdsmen killed, about 200 were settlers in Kankara and Danmusa Local Government Areas of the state.

According to him, vigilante groups in connivance with police and army were behind the killing of the organisation’s members in the two states.

Lamido, who described the killings as unfortunate, said same was part of a grand plan to exterminate them in Nigeria.

He insisted that the organisation have concrete evidence of the killing of its members, and that such evi-

dence had been sent to the State Police Commissioner and Commandant of the 35 Battalion, Nigerian Army, in the state.

He said the organisation had already compiled

names of the 350 victims and would soon head to court for redress.

He alleged that the evidence points to the fact that members of the organisation that were killed by se-

curity agents were innocent and did not commit any crimes.

He, therefore, called on security agents to stop linking Fulani herdsmen with criminal activities, saying his members are law abid-

ing citizens and not criminals.

Efforts to get response from the police spokesperson in the state, Sadiq Abubakar, was unsuccessful as he did not respond to message to his phone.

Troops foil attempt to bomb Mosque in Borno Ubong Ukpong Abuja

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igerian Army yesterday, said its troops foiled an attempt by a suicide bomber to bomb a mosque in Sulaimanti, outskirts of Maiduguri city, Borno State.

An operational update through the Director of Army Public Relations, DAPR, Colonel Sani Usman, said the suicide bombing attempt was foiled in the early hours of yesterday morning.

Usman said the suicide bomber was stopped by troops of 7 Division Garrison in conjunction with the ever dedicated Civilian JTF, who have maintained security and vigilance around the area.

“The terrorist carrying Improvised Explosive Device, IED, attempted to attack worshippers at Sulaimanti mosque during early morning prayer.

“He was however, prevented from gaining access

to the mosque,” he said.

Unfortunately, the Army spokesman said that five civilians sustained injuries during the failed attack.

He added that a team of Explosive Ordinance Device, EOD, has successfully detonated the remaining IEDs and combed the area.

The injured persons Usman said, had since been evacuated to the hospital while troops and security agents have intensified patrol within the general area.‬ “‪The Acting General Officer Commanding 7 Division, Brigadier General Victor Ezugwu, has also visited the community shortly after the incident.

“He commiserate with them and reminded them of their civic responsibility to arrest or report suspected persons who usually reconnoiter their domain before carrying out suicide attacks and reassure them of the military and security agencies’ commitment to their safety and security.”

A cross section of Internally Displaced Women trained as Traditional Birth Attendants (TBAS) by Betneely Charity Foundation, at their graduation ceremony in Malkohi Camp in Yola yesterday. PHOTO:NAN

Youths set ablaze Gaya’s residence, farm in Kano

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ome youths suspected to be political thugs, on Wednesday set ablaze the residence of Senator Kabiru Gaya, in Gaya Local Government area of Kano State.

The youths also set ablaze the campaign office and poultry farm of the House of Representatives member from the area, Alhaji Abdullahi Mahmoud.

An eye witness told the News Agency of Nigeria,

NAN, in Kano, that the incident occurred around 11 am on Wednesday.

According to the witness, the youths were protesting the alleged failure of the two politicians to fulfill the promises they made to them during the electioneering campaigns in 2015.

It was gathered that security agents had initially dispersed the protesting youths, who later regrouped and

burnt the senator’s house before heading to the campaign office and poultry farm of the House of Representatives member.

NAN gathered that the hoodlums had also attempted to burn the residence of the Chairman, Gaya Local Government Area, but were over powered by the security personnel deployed to quell the violence.

When contacted, the Pub-

lic Relations Officer of Kano State Police Command, DSP Magaji Majiya, confirmed the incident.

He said police in the area were still trying to contain the situation.

“Our men in Gaya are still trying to bring the situation under control, but as soon as we get details of the incident, we will keep you posted,” he said.

congress yesterday in Lagos, with a call on the Taraba State Governor, Darius Ishaku, to immediately set up a vigilance group to monitor and ensure security of all farm settlements in the central and southern parts of the state.

They said such steps became necessary in view of the inability of the Federal Government to ensure the security of lives and properties of her people, especially farmers by rampaging armed herdsmen.

The group also resolutely rejected the proposed grazing reserve exclusively for herdsmen in the country. The group declared that no inch of Jukunland will be surrendered for whatever purpose to anyone outside the zone.

The association pointed out that Jukun people as farmers traditionally need more land to cultivate and sustain her growing population.

The association wondered why the government is planning to spend billions to create grazing reserves for private

business ventures of individuals who sell their cows at premium price and don’t even pay tax, observing that if the grazing must be established, government must equally be prepared to create hunting, farming, fishing, and other reserves to cater for other Nigerians who don’t rare cows, but embrace other professions.

The extra-ordinary congress which had in attendance current, and past executive members of the association nationwide, praised the association’s National President Mr Benjamin Boko, for his quality leadership which many observed may go down in history as the most profound leadership for his numerous achievements since the inception of the association 30 years ago.

Herdsmen, farmers attack: Set up vigilance team, Group tells Taraba govt Francis Suberu

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socio-cultural group, Jukun Development Association, JDA, of Taraba State, rose from her emergency extra-ordinary

Four pupils escape death in Ilorin building collapse bers of the public that had Wole Adedeji Ilorin

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our secondary school students in Ilorin metropolis narrowly escaped death on Wednesday when a twostorey building collapsed on them.

It was gathered that one of the teachers in the school, Mr. Muritala Oba-

lowu, brought the students to the building site to carry concrete blocks when the building, located at Opeyemi street, Saw Mill area in Ilorin metropolis collapsed at about 9:00 am.

Sources said it has become a regular practice by the teacher to bring the students to the building site as a form of punishment, this was what helped sym-

pathisers who trooped to the accident scene on a rescue mission when they spotted yellow stripped shirt and aqua green short school uniforms of the students under the rubbles.

It was also gathered that the teacher from the school sneaked though the back door of the building where they were allegedly kept away from enraged mem-

gathered.

It would be recalled, that the Kwara State Government had earlier issued stern warnings to school principals and teachers against sending school children on errands, particularly during school hours.

About a week ago, three female school pupils were killed by a water tanker at Ipata area of Ilorin.

Thursday, May 12, 2016

Anxiety as Edo APC guber aspirants battle for delegates’ votes

National Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

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Politics 15

C’River PDP holds congress, elects State Exco …Duke, Imoke, Ita-Giwa absent Richard Ndoma CALABAR

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he Cross River State Chapter of the Peoples Democratic Party, PDP Tuesday night at the U.J Esuene Stadium Calabar elected the state party executive

with Ntufam Edim Inok Edim emerging as Chairman while Patrick Ebam, an indigene of Etung Local Government emerging as Vice Chairman of the party.

Chairman for the Cross River State Congress Committee, Chief Olorogun

Talib Tabite declared the winners at the end of the election.

Former Governors of the state Mr. Donald Duke, and Sen. Liyel Imoke were absent at the state congress.Other party Leaders who were also not seen at the venue of the congress

were Sen. Florence Ita -Giwa, Reps member for Bekwarra/Obanlikwu Federal constituency, Senator representing North Senatorial District, Senator Rose Oko, Reps member for Akpabuyo, Calabar South/ Bakassi federal constituency, Hon. Essien Ayi were

also not seen at the venue of the congress.

The reasons for their absence were not made known to journalists.

The outgoing state party chairman, Ntufam John Okon had earlier thanked the party faithful for conducting themselves in a

peaceful and well behaved manner throughout the period when the Ward/the Local Government Congresses were held and urged the delegates participating in the State congress to conduct themselves in a peaceful manner that will be devoid of any rancour.

Sango emerges Plateau PDP chairman James Abraham JOS

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he state congress of the Peoples Democratic Party, PDP in Plateau state ended in the early hours of yesterday with former Minister of Sports, Damishi Sango elected as the state chairman of the party.

In the result announced at the Treasure Inn Hotel in Jos, venue of the election, Sango scored 754 votes to defeat his closest rival and former member of House of Representatives, Bitrus Kaze who scored 222 votes.

Also elected Deputy Chairman of the party was former member of the state House of Assembly, Amos Gombi while former Assistant Legal Adviser of the party, Damian Shekarau was declared as Secretary during the election conducted under tight security watch.

In a statement issued in Jos yesterday and signed by Mr Clinton Garba, former Governor of the state and senator representing Plateau North, Jonah Jang applauded the peaceful conduct of the congress describing the emergence of new Peoples Democratic Party leadership in the State under the Chairmanship of Hon. Damishi Sango as the beginning of a new vista in the political history of the State.

Jang said with what transpired at the congress, the delegates have shown that the mistakes of the past are being corrected and the party strengthened ahead of the 2019 elections.

According to him, the onus is now on the new leadership to unite all divergent views, ensure cohesion and bring together all those who have left and were at the verge of leaving for the sole aim of regaining the lost glory of the party arising from the events of the recent past.

The former governor also appreciated the outgoing executive for holding forth and staying above board even in the face of daunting challenges noting that such steadfastness was a pointer to the fact that members of the executive are experienced, men of proven and tested integrity, who have been committed to the cause of the party in the State.

Senator Jang also charged the incoming executive to reunite aggrieved members, win new members and put the party in good stead to wrest power in 2019 adding that the current state of affairs in the State under the APC is a far cry of what the PDP had intended and as such, there is an urgent need to restore the dignity of the Plateau people by delivering good governance and development to fill their yearn ings and aspirations.

He added “For all those who contested for one position or the other, this is time to display the highest form of sportsmanship by joining those who emerged to rebuild the party.

The incoming executive will definitely count on their wealth of experience and noble ideas which will be in the interest of the party as well as the people of Plateau State”

Bayelsa State Governor, Hon. Seriake Dickson (left) and his Deputy, Rear Admiral Gboribiogha John Jonah rtd (2nd right) congratulating Hon. Cleopas Moses (2nd left), shortly after winning the Chairmanship position of the State PDP Congress at the Peace Park in Yenagoa.

PDP Congress in A’Ibom peaceful due to zoning arrangement —Akpabio

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ollowing the conduct of the Akwa Ibom Peoples Democratic Party, PDP State congress, the immediate past Governor of the State and Senate Minority Leader, Senator Godswill Akpabio has attributed its peacefulness to a zoning arrangement orchestrated by major stakeholders of the party in the state.

Speaking after casting his vote yesterday during the State PDP Congress, held at the Akpabio International Stadium, Uyo, Senator Akpabio who was a delegate from Essien Udim local government, stressed that the outcome of the congress, stems from consultations at the various wards and local governments in selecting state party officials.

His words, “There were

meetings and consultations among the different caucuses; starting from the wards to the local governments and we also did what you may be called localized zoning, where most of the positions in the state executive council of the party were zoned to different places and they met and made their choices and you can see they don’t have too many challenges.

Commenting on the forthcoming national congress of the PDP, the Senate Minority Leader and member representing Ikot Ekpene Senatorial district expressed his hope for a peaceful and successful elections.

However, he pointed out that for the PDP congress to be crisis- free and its members united afterwards, there is need for the candidates and

stakeholders of the party to reach a consensus.

“If we have too many people contesting for positions and they are not able to agree, it may generate a slight rancor.

“When a party is at peace and there is no crisis, it means that the members will go to bed but when there is crisis, it means there is going to be factionalization and it is likely to lose members”.

Akpabio also commended the Akwa Ibom State Governor, Deacon Udom Emmanuel for his giant strides towards industrializing and furthering development in the state.

National Mirror reports that 1, 234 delegates took part in the PDP State Congress, which saw the re-election of former Chairman,

Obong Paul Ekpo returning in the same capacity, Sir Ibanga Akpabio- Deputy State Chairman, Hon. Mfon Nkantion- Vice Chairman I. Others are Mr. Cletus Eshiet- Vice Chairman II, Elder Imoh Okon- Vice Chairman III, Mr. Harrison Ekpo- Secretary, Hon. Saturday Akpan- Organizing Secretary.

In his acceptance speech, Obong Paul Ekpo thanked the leader of the party in the state for their trust in him and promised to take the PDP to greater heights.

While he reiterated his support for the current administration, he charged other members of the party executive to work dedicatedly towards the course of the party and be supportive of the government.

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Politics

Thursday, May 12, 2016

National Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

Anxiety as Edo APC guber aspirants Onazena Abbey BENIN

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he raging battle of titans for the All Progressives Congress, APC’s gubernatorial ticket has reached a feverish level. The intra party war and scuffle to secure the majority votes of delegates is at the verge of consuming the party ahead of the gubernatorial election scheduled for November 10, 2016.

The once cohesive party became polarized along aspirant’s interest and primordial camps when three months ago the Comrade Governor, Adams Oshiomhole who said he cannot remain aloof and watch helplessly as to who succeeds him declared his preference for Dr Godwin Obaseki.

Obviously irked by the governor’s disposition which they perceived as synonymous to imposition, the other APC aspirants spanning over sixteen decided to gang up for the singular purpose of fighting the Governor as recently seen when they jointly signed a petition to the national leadership of the party alleging plot to manipulate the party delegates lists.

The already tensed atmosphere became aggravated when at a meeting of party leaders, Governor Oshiomhole raised alarm over plot by his Deputy, Dr Pius Odubu to kill him via voodoo and it assumed a frightening dimension penultimate week following the assassination attempt on the Deputy Governor who was on a meet the delegates tour of Etsako West, Etasko Central and Etsako East Local Government Areas While the dust raised by the assassination attempt on the convoy of Dr Pius Odubu was yet to settled down, another aspirant of the All Progressives Congress, APC Godwin Obaseki and his supporters, last Sunday , narrowly escaped death when armed men reportedly opened fire on his convoy at Sobe, Owan West Local Government Area of Edo state in what appeared to be a reprisal attack.

Obaseki who expressed shock over the incident said he was compelled to cancel the meeting with delegates and that he will not be intimidated . “ I called off the meeting with the delegates because I had to be whisked off by my security men. No one was hurt though, I cannot be intimidated, whoever did this has failed because we will continue our campaign”, he said.

From the array of aspirants jostling to succeed Governor Oshiomhole and judging from their heads deep into the race , involvement and commitments, political analysts have come to logical conclusion that the political pendulum of the APC ticket may either settled for Godwin Obaseki, the Head of Edo State Economic Team, Dr Pius Odubu, State Deputy Governor or Dr Chris Ogiewonyi, former Minister of State for Works For the APC delegates in the state, it is certainly a harvest period as they are daily seen at the famous Sapele road in quest of finding out the cost of their choice cars from car dealers in anticipation of the juicy outcome of the ongoing meet the delegates session by aspirants who are currently desperate not only at wooing them but possibly buy their votes at all cost.

Already some of the delegates from Oredo Local Government Area have had course to scamper through the locked windows to meet an aspirant at home when thugs allegedly invaded the party secretariat, the venue earlier scheduled for the meeting

Engineer Chris Ogiemwonyi Ogiemwonyi, a former Minister of State for Works under former President Goodluck Jonathan administration is a gentle and highly intelligent man. He defected from the PDP to the All Progressives Congress in 2014.

He is also the former Managing Directors, Nigerian Gas Company Limited and Group Executive Director, NNPC, ( 2005-2007) (2003-2005]) (2007-2009) respectively. He equally enjoys goodwill and recognition from the highly respected Benin palace. The late Omo N’ Oba N’Edo Uku Akpolokpolor, Oba Erediauwa accorded him a royal bead as a mark for his meritorious service to the nation when he retired home.

There are indication that he has the backing and support of the National Chairman of the Party, Chief John Odigie-

Oshiomhole

Odubu

For the APC delegates in the state, it is certainly a harvest period as they are daily seen at the famous

Sapele road in quest

of finding out the cost of their choice cars from car dealers in anticipation of the juicy outcome of the ongoing meet the delegates session by aspirants who are currently desperate not only at wooing them but possibly buy their votes at all cost.

Oyegun who equally shared similar societal values of sincerity, integrity, hard work, discipline and self discipline with him.

Chief Odigie-Oyegun has equally allayed fear by the aspirants over alleged plot to manipulate the delegate lists. ‘’All the primaries will be free and fair as far as I remain the National Chairman of the party. There will be no alteration and the delegates list is under key and lock. If there is any justified reason that someone who is a delegate is late or has left the party, the party will critically look at the reason and carry out or effect the genuine change’’, he said.

Ogiewonyi political opponents and critics are not at ease with his impeccable track records throughout his almost thirty five years in service, a development they claimed was uncommon with an average typical Nigeria civil servant.

His campaign billboards and banners boldly carried the inscription “Mr Integrity”. He recently challenged other aspirants to an integrity test and tasked party delegates to the primary to probe aspirants contesting the ticket Ogiemwonyi is a graduate of the University of Benin.

He bagged a B.Sc. (Hons) in Applied Physics in 1974 and obtained a post Graduate Diploma (PGD) in Petroleum Engineering in 1976 from University of Ibadan. He was also at Harvard Business School for top management course. He is a celebrated technocrat and a professional.

His daily acceptance and infiltration into the minds of the delegates as aspirant to be voted for, continue to soar day by day, waiting to explode and spring surprises at the Ogbe stadium, venue for the party’s primary come June.

Meanwhile a Pro- Ogiemwonyi Campaign Group has also called on delegates to the forthcoming All Progressive Congress, APC, primaries to put integrity of aspirants as a determine factor in electing candidate to fly the party’s ticket.

Coordinator of the group, Comrade Phillip Osaro, in a statement said what the APC need to move the state to another level is a candidate with proven and untainted public service.

While noting that the state under the watch of Comrade Adams Oshiomhole has continued to witness progressive transformation in all sectors, Osaro said the state cannot afford to slide back to the dark days. ‘’We are concern about the character and pedigree of who picks the APC ticket and that is why we are appealing to all the delegate not to sell their votes to money bags rather a man with track record in public service and integrity”

Godwin Obaseki Obaseki is the chairman, Edo State Economic Team and the preferred candidate of Governor Adams Oshiomhole

National Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

Politics

Thursday, May 12, 2016

15

battle for delegates’ votes

Although before now, he was generally touted by political analysts as likely to pick the Edo APC governorship ticket from the support he enjoys from the incumbent Governor, but recent development has however shown that he needs to work very hard to get the party’s ticket He does not only has the support of Governor Oshiomhole, he is the chairman of Edo State Economic Team in the last seven years The fears of the professional politicians are not unconnected with the fact that Obaseki, been a technocrat may likely not protect their interest if he eventually emerged the Governor But what appeared to bring ray of hopes for his candidacy was seen over the weekend when the party chairmen in three Etsako’s Local Government Areas unanimously led their delegates to endorse his candidacy, being the anointed candidate of their illustrious son, Comrade Adams Oshiomhole The meeting was coordinated by the member representing Etsako Federal constituency in the House of Representatives, Mr Philip Shaibu. Chairman of APC in Etsako West, Alhaji Abubakar Akokhia, who displayed the signatures and pictures of the delegates to newsmen , said delegates from the area have scrutinized all the aspirants in the race and concluded that Obaseki remains the best to succeed Governor Oshiomhole. .Obeseki remains the engine room of the present administration and the economic brain to the wonders that Governor Oshiomhole has been able to perform in the state in the last seven years in areas of road constructions, regular payment of workers salary amidst the dwindling federal allocations, red roof revolution and massive infrastructural development across the three senatorial districts Some co-aspirants, like the Commissioner for Works, Barr Osarodion Ogie, who was said to have been penciled down to head his campaign team soon after the primary has since collapsed his political structure in his favour while his public acceptance appeared to be gathering momentum by the day Godwin Obaseki serve on the Presidential Committee on the Reform of the Nigerian Pension System. He also served on the Committee on the Re-activation of the Nigerian Bond Market set up by the Securities and Exchange Commission. He is an active member of the NSE and currently serves on its Governing Council.

The lingering odds against him, according to his critics borders on the grounds that he is been imposed on the party and that as a capitalist he may not do the bidding of party leaders.

He has equally acknowledged the seeming gang up against him, particularly from co-aspirants but said they will fail.

Justifying why Governor Oshiomhole settled for Obaseki, a Chieftain of the party, Rev. Michael Egharevbha said the fear of getting Edo State enmeshed in financial moribund and desire for continuity and accountability in governance makes Oshiomhole to settle for him.

According to him ‘’The continuity we want is progressive continuity and not redundant one, not a desire to be a governor by all means. History has shown that those who are desperate about governorship never get it. Obaseki just came and he has been with us. We now need a better reason to fill the golden shoe that Oshiomhole is leaving. We don’t cast aspersion because we are all in the same party, Obaseki can do the job and after eight years any other person can come

Dr Pius Odubu Odubu is the deputy to Governor Adams Oshiomhole.

He hails from Orhiomwon Local Government Area of the State.

He was a former member, Federal House of Representatives between 1999-2006, 2007-2011 and has been an outstanding loyal Deputy to the Governor in the history of Governor/Deputy relationship in the State.

His relationship with the Governor hit the rock recently when the Governor in a meeting of party leaders said

Ogiemwonyi Odubu plot to kill him via voodoo, reason why he avoided attending [Odubu] wife’s birthday, an allegation the Deputy Governor denied saying “the allegation was being fuelled by mischief makers and blackmailers who are bent on destroying his cordial relationship with his boss.

“I will by the special Grace of God, continue to disappoint the dubious expectations of those who are bent on driving a wedge between me and the Comrade Governor. It is my nature and character to be loyal to those who God has set over me because they are His instruments’.’

“At times like this, blackmailers are at their best but I have decided to take solace in God who knows the hearts of men, trusting and believing as always that God will vindicate the just” ,he posited.

“It is an old and tired concocted lie to tarnish my image in the eye of the public. It is politically motivated. You are aware that the governorship election is around the corner, and I am one of those vying for the APC ticket. They failed when they tried it during my re-nomination as deputy governor in 2012, they certainly will fail again now.”

He maintained, that his relationship with his boss has remained cordial over the years adding that “Oshiomhole has acknowledged this severally that i am the best deputy governor in Nigeria and the most loyal deputy governor in the country. I have received several recognition and awards from reputable organizations including the Guardian Newspapers. I believe I have done my bit by providing and complimenting the effort of Oshiomhole.”

His supporters and foot soldiers who expected the Governor to repay his loyalty with the governorship ticket are serving commissioners in the State who for reasons known to them would not want to be seen openly indentifying with him for now.

Odubu’s loyalty to the Comrade Governor , according to critics, may have been proved wrong with his decision to toe a parallel line and declared his interest to run for the governorship race as against the wish of the Governor who ordinarily would have expected him to demonstrate the much talked about loyalty at this critical moment His ambition suffered a setback, a week after he officially declared his intention to run for the governorship election following assassination attempt on his life in Auchi while on a tour of the three Etsako’s Local Government Areas In a swift reaction, members of the Odubu Campaign Organization who consequently petitioned the National Chairman of the party, Chief Odigie- Oyegun and the National Working Committee on the urgent need to curtain the excesses of some power drunk politicians in the state

Obaseki what the

APC needs to

move the state to another level is a candidate with proven and untainted public service.

While noting that the state under the watch of

Comrade Adams

Oshiomhole has continued to witness progressive transformation in all sectors,

Osaro said the

state cannot afford to slide back to the dark days. ahead of the gubernatorial election said the attack was not only directed at the Deputy Governor but perpetrated by those they claimed dread a free, fair and credible democratic contest Director of Strategic Research and Planning of the campaign organization, Hon. Samson Osagie who enumerated instances where a number of persons considered to be loyal to the governorship ambition of the Deputy Governor were illegally suspended and removed from office opined, ‘’ This to us is the height of naked display of power of cruelty, animosity, intolerance and man inhumanity to man ‘’ No fewer than five persons including State Security Service officer, escort police attached to the Deputy Governor were severely injured during the attack which has been described by the State Commissioner for Information, Prince Kassim Afegbua as false and self inflicted while the APC chairman Etsako West , Alhaji Abubakar said the shootings were carried out by suspected thugs that accompanied the Deputy Governor to the venue Odubu’s critics have always pin-point at his abysmal representation of the constituency, Orhionmwon/ Uhunmwode Federal Constituency as a federal lawmaker between 1999-2007 under the Peoples Democratic Party.

Mail Mirror

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Politics

Thursday, May 12, 2016

Holds Buhari , APC responsible for Cameron’s derogatory remark on Nigeria- PDP

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he Peoples Democratic party, Lagos state chapter, has asked Nigerians to blame President Muhammadu Buhari and APC for the derogatory statements credited to the United Kingdom Prime Minister, David Cameron, which describes Nigeria and Afghanistan as fantastically corrupt nations.

Lagos PDP in a release issued and signed by its Publicity Secretary, Barrister Taofik Gani said Nigerians should hold President Muhammadu Buhari and his party, All Progressives Party, APC responsible because it was actually the president who had described Nigeria as a corrupt country during his campaigns just as the APC also blackmailed and sabotaged the integrity and image of the country in their desperation to pull down the PDP. “ The APC organised various groups and protests at various Nigerian Embassies around the world to blackmail the country as corrupt, to destroy the

achievements of the PDP Government. We remember well that the APC was also behind the refusal of the United States of America to assist Nigeria in the fight against Boko Haram because the APC propagandists told the world that the PDP government was committing genocide against a particular section of the country.

They portrayed the nation as very evil, Corrupt and undemocratic during their campaigns in order to win the elections. “Presently the manner of carrying out their anti corruption fight is not only selective but defamatory of our Nation. Now Nigerians are suffering from the mischief, diabolical and unpatriotism of APC. Nigeria has been too disparage and derogated by APC during the elections and now the implications of their statements during their presidential campaigns is haunting them. They are sinners to Nigeria and they must apologise and ask for forgiveness in order to be successful in this governance”, Lagos PDP said.

National Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

Grazing Reserve Bill needs cooperation of states —Sunmonu Olubunmi Omoogun

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etermined to proffer solution to the lingering controversy surrounding the Grazing Reserve Bill, the Senator representing Oyo Central senatorial district, Monsurat Sunmonu has stated that a little initiative and creativity would have solved the problems.

“I have read a number of articles and followed the issues. As a Nigerian, a legislator and representative of the people I have had recourse to think long and hard about these issues and ask myself what I, as a member of the Senate can do to help solve the problem”, she said.

She noted that the tenors of the law are very clear: Governors are in control of land within their states on trust for the people, saying that Section 49 of the Act goes on to state that the provisions of the Act shall not affect any land that the Federal Government (or any of its agencies) already has title to.

The statement further said “it is significant to realise that normal Acts of National Assembly can be amended by passing the amendment in the National Assembly followed by Presidential assent. However, constitutional amendments need to be passed in the National Assembly and also in 2/3 of the State Houses of Assembly (i.e.

23 states) before the President can assent.

“My contention is that if there is to be anything similar to a Grazing Reserve Bill it necessarily needs the cooperation of States who are willing to pass such laws in their State Houses of Assembly.

And of course, the Governor will need to assent. Each state is to independently determine whether Grazing Reserves is something that can be accommodated. We must not forget that land matters are not listed in the Exclusive or Concurrent list in the Constitution meaning they cannot be legislated on at the Federal level.

“In other parts of the world like UK and US, people who want to rear cattle purchase land/ranches on which they graze their cattle. This land is not provided for free

by government, it is bought.

Payment can be made in a number of ways and can be staggered over a period of time. Rearing cattle is no different to conducting any other business and should be treated like any other business”, she explained.

Sunmonu further added that it is generally known that these cattle do not belong to herdsmen but well endowed financial businessmen.

She said the people rearing cows for business should be subsumed into the normal business realm and approach banks for loans to buy land, in the same way farmers buy land to grow their crops saying , “This will mean that we have statistics on cattle rearing for taxation purposes also”.

One year after, Dankwambo swears-in 12 Commissioners Williams Attah GOMBE

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fter spending a year without a cabinet, Governor Ibrahim Hassan Dankwambo of Gombe State yesterday sworn-in twelve commissioners.

However, fifteen names were listed in the Governor’s speech and no explanation was given for the absence of the three others.

Two among the absentees who were not screened by the State House of Assembly have remained a subject of political controversy in the State.

But speaking after the swearing-in, Governor Dankwambo called on the twelve newly sworn-in Commissioners, ten of whom are returnees from the last cabinet dissolved just before his swearing-in for a second term in May last year, to steer the affairs of their various ministries with the fear of God. According to the Governor, “most of the Commissioners sworn-in today have

served the State during the first tenure of this administration. Their re-appointment, therefore, is eloquent testament of the confidence reposed in them as a result of their hardwork, dedication to duty and track record of meritorious service to the State”.

He assured that despite the dwindling Federal allocation to the State, the administration would not rest on its oars in the efforts to transform the State.

“The numerous developmental projects being carried out in the State at the moment attest to our commitment to weather the economic storm and impact positively on the lives of our people”, the Governor said.

Speaking on behalf of the Commissioners, Abdulhamid Ibrahim Eaq. thanked the Governor for still finding them useful and for affording them another opportunity to serve the State.

He promised that they will cooperate with the Governor in building and sustaining good governance and the ideals of democracy in Gombe State.

Rivers PDP Chairman, Felix Obuah casting his vote at the Rivers State PDP congress in Port Harcourt

Nigerians urged to support Buhari to bring promised change

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igerians, irrespective of ethnic and political divide, have been urged to support the President Muhammadu Buhari-led Federal Government to fulfil its campaign promises to the people, even as closer collaboration is being sought between the Presidency and the legislative arm of government.

This plea was contained in a release issued by the Supreme Head of the Cherubim & Seraphim Unification Church of Nigeria, His Most Eminence Solomon Prophet Adegboyega Alao, a copy of which was made available to

National Mirror in Lagos, on Wednesday.

Prophet Alao, who commended the thoroughness of both the legislatures and executive arm on the 2016 budget, however, urged the government to hit the ground running and begin real work on the budget as Nigerians can barely wait to enjoy the dividends of change promised.

Prophet Alao also called on agitators of secession in the country to retrace their steps and support the new government to move the country forward.

The renowned clergy also warned against any renewed

hostility in the Niger Delta region, saying all hands must be on deck at this stage to move the country forward.

The statement read in part: “After a long, but necessary wait for proper scrutiny of the 2016 budget, Nigerians can now heave a sigh of relief that the document has been assented to by the President. What is left for everyone in the country now is to continue to cooperate and collaborate with the government to focus on implementing the letters of the budget.

“The government needs our support and understanding to be able to provide what

they promised us during campaigns. That is what we owe the government.”

On the agitation for secession and renewed militancy in the Niger Delta, Alao says.

“We all need to learn from history. No right thinking Nigerian will want a repeat of what happened during the civil war. Everyone has a legitimate right to ventilate his grievances, but it must be done in accordance with laid down laws and procedures. What this government does not need now is any form of distraction that is capable of derailing it from its path to development.”

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Thursday, May 12, 2016

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Lagos releases N5 bn to complete 114 inner roads Francis Suberu

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L-R: Special Adviser to the Governor of Oyo State on Communication and Strategy, Mr Yomi Layinka; Secretary to Oyo State Government, Mr Lekan Ali, and Head of Service Oyo State, Mr Soji Eniade, at a news conference on the on-going verification exercise in Oyo State in Ibadan, yesterday. PHOTO:NAN

Oyo suspends salaries of 16,532 workers over fraudulent practices Kemi Olaitan IBADAN

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or their alleged fraudulent practices which include falsification of retirement age, drawing multiple salaries and using multiple bank accounts to conceal financial illegalities, among others, the Oyo State Government yesterday announced the immediate suspension of salaries of 16,532 workers drawn from different ministries, departments and agencies.

Secretary to the State Government, SSG, Alhaji Ismail Olalekan Ali, who made the disclosure while addressing a press conference over the issue in Ibadan, said the government has set up a five-man staff verification panel to further evaluate the case

of each of the affected workers “on a one-on-one basis” within the next two weeks.

He stated that it is after this that the government will formally make public the results of the panel’s findings and recommendations.

He said government decision came following the Bank Verification Number, BVN, revelations as contained in the database of the Nigerian Interbank Settlement Systems Plc (NIBSS).

According to him, a total of 569 workers including pensioners, TESCOM employees, tertiary employees and local government staff were incriminated in drawing multiple salaries from multiple accounts just as 1,277 employees who had passed retirement age were still

collecting salaries on monthly basis from government.

He said: “By matching our employees Bank Verification Numbers, BVN, with other personnel data voluntarily supplied by all workers, the consultants were able to determine the consistency or otherwise in our staffing records.

“After this forensic computerised data audit, the consultants from the Nigerian Interbank Settlement System (NIBB Plc) found many instances of inconsistencies, variations and entry details that did not tally. In all, 16,532, employees out of a total 100,259 analysed were found to have such issues requiring further clarification.”

He maintained that the on-going staff veri-

fication exercise would determine the extent of the multiple salary payments, while culprits would be vigorously pursued to make refunds of illegally drawn salaries as legal actions would be taken against them accordingly.

He added that the government is poised to recover all monies credited, but not accessed following BVN revelations.

The SSG, however, clarified that the 16,532 employees identified as having issues in their data are not automatically thrown out of work nor are they confirmed guilty of any financial illegalities yet until after the final pronouncement of the staff verification panel.’’

Royal father backs Obasanjo on unity among Yoruba Obas Boladale Bamigbola OSOGBO

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traditional ruler, High Chief Solomon Ogundola, has re-echoed the position of the former president, Chief Olusegun Obasanjo on the need for traditional rulers in Yorubaland to shun supremacy battle and embrace unity.

Ogundola, who spoke shortly after been installed as the new Lejoka of Ijoka in Ilesa, Osun State by the Owa Obokun of Ijesaland, Oba

Adekunle Aromolaran, said the position of ex-President Obasanjo on the need for unity, has pointed the only way peace can be achieved among the people of the race beginning with rancor-free relationship among rulers.

Making reference to the statement credited to Chief Obasanjo, when he hosted new Olubadan of Ibadanland, Oba Saliu Adetunji, at his residence in Abeokuta recently, Ogundola, who is among six kingmakers in Ilesa town, said that if unity can be achieved among Yoruba mon-

archs, development of the region would be unhindered.

The new Lejoka, who was a former chairman of the defunct Action Congress of Nigeria, ACN, in Alimosho Local Government of Lagos State, said history and tradition should be followed by traditional rulers in determining how they relate, adding that those stools that deserve respect should be given their due regards.

“But this does not mean some people should be looking at others as subservient.

Respect begets respect. We

should listen to elders who are working hard to ensure a more united Yoruba race,” Ogundola said.

On his plans for the people, Ogundola promised to use his vast experience to influence development in Ijesaland and assist unemployed youth to get good job placements.

He expressed delight to have returned home and called on sons and daughters of Ijesaland, both at home and in the diaspora to come and contribute their quota to economic growth of the town.

agos State Government yesterday said it has released N5.5 billion, being the second tranche of the money meant to complete the ongoing construction of 114 roads across the 20 local governments and 37 local council development areas in the state.

The payment of the second tranche made a total of N10.8 billion so far released for the completions of the roads as provided for in the 2016 state budget.

In a statement signed by the Commissioner for Local Government and Community Affairs, Mr. Muslim Olohuntele Folami, on Wednesday, the state government said the payment of N5.5 billion released on Monday represents 61 per cent of the total cost of the 114 roads at N17.85billion.

The commissioner said: “The government again reiterates that as long as Lagosians continue to fulfill their civic responsibility and obligation, the government will continue to spend its resources wisely and

Lagosians will continue to enjoy the dividends of democracy.”

Folami said that aside completed and ongoing road projects across the metropolis, the state government has also embarked on the Light Up Lagos Project which is fast spreading across major highways and streets as well as construction of bridges, flyovers as well as equipping the Police and other security agencies.

“This government wants the people to know that the money they are paying is being well spent and so far as they continue to fulfill their part, the government will not relent in making the state safer and more habitable for the people.

“Tax payers’ money is being well spent and people can see and feel it, we promised a government of inclusion and we would continue to demonstrate it through the various people oriented projects of this administration. Lagosians should be rest assured that Governor Akinwunmi Ambode has the passion to make life more comfortable for them,” Folami said.

Osun Assembly passes N141bn 2016 budget Boladale Bamigbola OSOGBO.

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sun State House of Assembly yesterday passed the 2016 budget estimate of N141,276,122,240.

According to a statement issued by the Chairman, House Committee on Information and Strategy, Olatunbosun Oyintiloye, the budget sailed through following a motion by the Chairman, House Committee on Finance and Appropriation, Kamil Oyedele, for its final passage at the plenary.

The passed budget has N79.183 billion representing 56.06 per cent as recurrent expenditure and N62.093 billion representing 43.95 as capital expenditure.

Also, the recurrent revenue covers N99.468 billion representing 70.41 per cent, while the capital revenue covers N41.808 billion representing 29.59 per cent.

The Speaker, Najeem Salaam, was quoted in a statement as saying; on no ac-

count should the executive spend beyond the approved budget without supplementary budget to the house.

Describing the budget as the budget of hope, he expressed hope that the 2016 would be a better year in terms of capacity building, provision of infrastructure for the people and welfare of workers.

He urged the workers to assist in the quest for revenue generation, saying the government needed to look inward for improve revenue without putting unnecessary burden on the people.

The state further noted that Salaam tasked the executive to explore all avenues to block leakages.

The governor, Rauf Aregbesola had on December 14, 2015 presented a budget estimate of N150.7 billion before the Assembly, but in another letter dated April 6, 2016, he wrote again to inform the Assembly on the need to readjust the budget to N137.978 billion.

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Thursday, May 12, 2016

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African leaders and God Almighty’s formula!

CRITICAL STROKES

KAYODE

KETEFE

kketefe@nationalmirroronline.net 08032147720 (SMS only)

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frican continent is the most backward of all the continents of the world in all ramifications; whereas she is the most blessed in terms of natural resources. Apart from that, the continent is blissfully shielded from extremities of weather, neither is it afflicted with geological disasters like earthquakes and volcanoes, or seismic sea wave calamity like tsunamis.

A joke that underscores the irony has it that at the beginning of time, representatives of other continents protested to God Almighty about the apparent lopsided blessings bestowed on Africa.

“Your majesty, why is it that Africa has all the blessings, it has unlimited amount of natural resources, abundant sunshine, fertile land, energetic peoples and yet is shielded from the all vagaries of natural disasters like earthquakes, tsunamis, volcanoes etc?”

God Almighty grinned and remarked with his characteristic omniscient insight: “Why don’t you people wait and see

the kind of leaders these people will have!

Their leaders will be worse than all the natural disasters combined! In spite of their resources, ye peoples shall have it better than them. That is my formula for ensuring balance!”

Beyond the mirth excited by this ironic joke is the ineluctable truth: African leaders have been the continent’s nemesis!

From the prehistoric times to the present, Africans have had the worst cases of dictators. Let us start with Robert Mugabe of Zimbabwe.

Right now, the Zimbabwean economy has completely crumbled with over 85 percent people living in grinding poverty, companies after companies keep closing down with the incidental job losses, yet the ageless Mugabe holds on to office with tyrannical fists.

Mugabe, who now holds the record of World Oldest Ruler, belongs to the last set of sit-tight rulers still holding to power. As debilities of old age sets upon him, the old fox is reported to be scheming replacing himself with his concubine-turned wife, Grace Mugabe!

Another is Yoweri Museveni of Uganda, who began his career as a popular President both home and abroad. His government had enjoyed widespread international support in the early years and he managed to put the Uganda economy back on the right track through adoption of the neoliberal structural adjustments scripted by the World Bank and the International Monetary Fund (IMF).

However, like all sit tight leaders, he

Oh God, why don’t you now take away

Africa’s natural

resources and give her good leaders?

gradually descended into despotism by muzzling the press and stamping on human rights. In the period leading to the last February 2016 Presidential election, Museveni had launched a most comprehensive assault on the opposition. The leader of opposition Dr. Kizza Besigye, had been arrested for about three times and was briefly detained just before the election. Several opposition figures were arrested, tortured and humiliated while others were thrown in detention. In fact, Museveni turned the state police into a terror machine to shatter opposition’s courage and deflate its spirit just to ensure he won a fifth term election!

How about Muammar Ghadafi?

The Arab Spring that ousted Ghadafi from power started after the dictator had spent 42 years in powe,r but he would rather unleash a civil war on his people rather than quit in peace.

Ghadafi, obviously, was suffering from the worst strain of megalomania. How can you choose to plunge your own country into a civil war, claiming tens of thousands of lives, simply because you don’t want to leave office after spending 42 years?

Ghadafi loved blood! He was known to have personally presided over public executions of “enemies” like the killings of members of the Islamic fundamentalist Hizb-ut Tahrir sect, in the 1970s.

Africa has been accursed with sittight cum sadistic rulers in the persons of Houphet Boigny of Cote d’Ivoire, who spent 33 years in office; Jean Bedel Bokassa of Central African Republic, who spent 13 years in office, metamorphosing from President, to President-for-life and finally, Emperor! It was Bokassa who ordered his troops to open fire on defenceless school children leading to the death of about 100 pupils in 1979!

We have also had Hosni Mubarak of Egypt, who was ousted in 2011 during the Arab Spring after 30 years of misrule.

We have had Idi Amin Dada of Uganda, the Great Conqueror of the British Empire, who managed to pack into his eight years rule the worst human holocaust in the whole of Africa.

We are still having self-conceited and self-serving leader in Paul Biya of Cameroun, who is now in his 34th year in office, using all sorts of antics and tricks to perpetuate himself in power.

The lesson to be learnt from all these it is that good governance supersedes all other factors and ingredients in the national prosperity mix. Oh God, why don’t you now take away Africa’s natural resources and give her good leaders?

Kayode Ketefe may be followed on twitter @Ketesco

Lessons to learn from Ekiti doctors’ death Marcus Fatunmole

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igerians woke last April 25 to receive the tragic news of the death of six doctors and their driver along the Abuja-Kaduna highway, while heading to Sokoto State for the 56th Annual General Conference and Delegates Meeting of the Nigerian Medical Association (NMA). The deceased were among the 12 medical doctors representing Ekiti State at the Sokoto meeting.

Like the death of the late Barrister James Ocholi (SAN), the Minister of State for Labour and Employment on March 6 this year on the same road, the loss of the doctors was seen as a national tragedy. They were whisked away by death at a time their services were most needed in the country.

As one of the survivors of the crash and chairman of Ekiti State chapter of the NMA, Dr John Akinbote, said, the doctors left behind a country where doctor-patient ratio stands at 1:5,000. He specifically argued that 30,000 Ekiti people might have no doctor to attend to them, following the loss of the medical practitioners.

It is heartbreaking that while the shockwaves of the death Ocholi, his wife and son still hovered over the nation, another tragedy struck. These deaths surely have implications for Nigeria. While one would hardly doubt that the medical practitioners were rich enough to buy air tickets and fly to Sokoto, their death would significantly

The average Nigerian road has been widely described as death traps by many citizens encourage the propensity of the rich to abandon the nation’s roads for the air.

The average Nigerian road has been widely described as death traps by many citizens. Efforts to fix them by successive governments have failed. And, with the emergence of the “change” government which pledges to address the cumulative ills in the nation, the Minister of Works, Mr Raji Fashola (SAN), who also oversees Power and Housing ministries, could be burdened with the challenges of transforming the three ministries under his watch, as demonstrated by worsening power supply in the country. Who knows if by 2019, not much would have changed on our roads? In order to guarantee sustainable repair of the nation’s roads, all the three tiers of government must build strong ties on road maintenance in the country.

The Ekiti doctors tragedy reminds citizens and governments of the need to ensure functional public health facilities across the nation. It is worrisome that NMA could allege that the first hospital, a private facility, its members were taken did not have a doctor nor basic first aid materials on ground to attend to the doctors.

He also accused the Federal Road Safety Commission (FRSC) of not having fuel in its vehicles, after reportedly arriving at

the scene of the accident 40 minutes after the bus had somersaulted.

In a communiqué issued after its meeting, the NMA said it “observed with dismay the absence of ambulances stationed along the Abuja-Kaduna highway for the purpose of prompt emergency care and evacuation of victims of vehicular accidents. It further observed the poor state of government owned health facilities located along the highway, which were grossly ill-equipped and inappropriately staffed to provide emergency care to victims of vehicular accidents.”

The NMA’s experience further confirms that anyone could need the help of a hospital at any location and time.

Many poor Nigerians often lament how the attitudes of health professionals result in the loss of their ailing relations.

These attitudes are responsible for the incessant strike actions by doctors and non-doctors working in public health facilities in the country.

The attitudes of health workers and incessant strikes should be carefully looked into by the authorities. Governments must strengthen their reward and punitive systems for health workers in Nigeria. Even though the National Health Act stipulates that the Minister of Health must resolve any matter necessitating strike in the health sector within 14 days, the minister must be pro-active and ensure medical and nonmedical workers do not down tools for

whatever reason.

It is also noteworthy that Nigerians daily perish on the nation’s highways and many of such accidents go unreported. For instance, the FRSC revealed that 254 people died in various road accidents in Kaduna, Kano, Katsina and Jigawa states in the first quarter of this year. None of such deaths got media and public attention as those of Ocholi and the doctors. The Zonal Commanding Officer of the FRSC, Mr Victor Nwokolo, announced in Kaduna, at the flag-off of a special operation to curb road accidents in the zone recently that 305 road traffic crashes were recorded in the first quarter of this year, out of which 1,322 persons were injured.

There must be sustained sensitization, training and re-training of all categories of drivers in the country by the FRSC, which had attributed the cause of accidents which killed Ocholi and the Ekiti doctors to overspeeding. No doubt, many accidents on the country’s roads could be averted. While death is the ultimate of every man, dying on the road should be the cheapest death for which any man could offer his life.

Fatunmole is an editorial staff of Abuja Bureau of this newspaper Send your views by mail or sms to PMB 10001, Ikoyi, or our Email: mail@ nationalmirroronline.net mirrorlagos@ yahoo.com or 08164966858 (SMS only). The Editor reserves the right to edit and reject views or photographs.

Pseudonyms may be used but must be clearly marked as such.

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All the Facts, All the Sides A PUBLICATION OF GLOBAL MEDIA MIRROR LTD BARRISTER JIMOH IBRAHIM, CFR n PUBLISHER

SUNDAY OLAJIDE n MANAGING DIRECTOR/CEO BEN MEMULETIWON n ACTING DAILY EDITOR GBEMI OLUJOBI n SATURDAY EDITOR AYO OLESIN n SUNDAY EDITOR DOZIE OKEBALAMA n COORDINATOR, EDITORIAL BOARD CALLISTUS OKE n EDITORIAL PAGE EDITOR OBIORA IFOH n ABUJA BUREAU CHIEF

Nigeria’s outstanding housing deficit

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or a couple of years now, official and media reports have been highlighting the nation’s scandalous backwardness in providing decent houses for its citizens. About 25 years ago (1991) when the Nigerian population was put at 87.5 million, the country was grappling with a housing deficit of roughly seven million units. Four years to 1991 - in 1987 - the United Nations’ estimate of Nigeria’s population was 87 million; World Bank 106.2 million; and the Nigerian National Population Commission (NPC) 112.3 million. It is, therefore, not unlikely that the housing deficit estimate given in 1991 covered up Nigeria’s real housing mess to a significant extent. Today, with the population fast approaching 180 million, the deficit hovers around 17 and 20 million units, about 250 percent increase, according to the nation’s statistics’ managers.

Few years ago, the Federal Mortgage Bank of Nigeria (FMBN) said about N56 trillion would be needed to adequately meet the housing needs of Nigerians. The figure needed, according to the World Bank, was N59.5 trillion; while the Federal Government early last year (2015) under the watch of former President Goodluck Jonathan, said the housing sector needed $300 billion investment over the next 30 years to resolve the deficit. This was

supposed to be under a 30-year (2013 - 2043) National Infrastructure Master-plan (NIM) that would cost $3 trillion to provide infrastructure in major sectors of the Nigerian economy. This Jonathan’s government revealed at the ground-breaking ceremony of Land Swap Districts in Abuja.

One year earlier, the FG in August 2014, the FG inaugurated the first phase of what it called its affordable home ownership scheme aimed at creating 10,000 mortgages under the Nigerian Mortgage Refinancing Company (NMRC). The then Finance Minister and Coordinating Minister for the Economy, Dr. Ngozi Okonjo- Iweala, said with the newlyintroduced mortgage refinancing model, low income earners would have the opportunity to own their houses under a flexible payment package. She said the process had been simplified such that under the new framework, the processing time for application for the mass housing project had been reduced from between six and 18 months to just six weeks.

But experts roundly criticized the Jonathan government for creating a secondary market where a mortgage bank could sell non-performing mortgage instruments, with no primary facility from where the bank could source the initial capital to finance the construction; a development

The shame trailing the nation’s housing sector would have been total but for individual efforts blamed on putting square pegs in round holes and vice versa.

Indeed, it seems to be becoming clearer that Nigeria is equally suffering from the deficit of policies and standards; as well as their enforcement in the country’s housing sector.

The Minister of Power, Works and Housing, Mr. Babatunde Fashola, for example, stated just few days back that bridging the housing deficit might prove very difficult except the country ‘industrialises’ housing delivery by making the production process uniform in terms of the sizes of doors, windows, roof, sanitary and electrical fittings, among others.

As we speak, experts say the country requires about one million housing units annually over the next 30 years to be able to provide decent and affordable housing for Nigerians as the 1991 National Housing Policy (as altered) prescribes. But reports have it that the Federal Housing Authority (FHA) delivered only 40,000 homes in the last 40 years.

According to Fashola, the number was not delivered on a consistent

basis of 1,000 homes per year. The gaps between starts and stops, the minister said, clearly indicated the need to change the ways of the FHA – in other words, the obvious ineptitude trailing the housing provisioning agency.

Perhaps the FG needs to the reminded again and again that it needs to invest sufficient efforts, facilitation and funds to provide decent housing for Nigerians because of its countless benefits.

Fashola did give hints of change in FG’s housing policy focus when he said lately that the 2016 budget had provision for N10 billion on low income housing estate in each of the state of the federation and the Federal Capital Territory (FCT). But gone were the days when such glib talks thrilled Nigerians. For the shame trailing the nation’s housing sector would have been total but for individual efforts. Still, individuals that take the risk of investing their lifetime savings on housing sometimes have their houses demolished on flimsy excuses by the government, whereas the government has failed woefully in untangling such setbacks as the lack of funds, Land Use Act of 1978, harrowing property registration process, oppressive/multiple taxes and high cost of building materials, among others, that are the bane of housing in Nigeria. Let there be truly a difference this time.

ON THIS DAY May 12, 1998 In Indonesia, four students were shot at Trisakti University, leading to widespread riots and the fall of President Suharto. Suharto (June 8, 1921 – January 27, 2008) was the second President of Indonesia, holding the office for 31 years from Sukarno’s ouster in 1967 until his resignation in 1998. Severe financial crisis led to widespread unrest and his resignation on May 12, 1998.

Suharto died in 2008.

May 12, 2007 Riots in which over 50 people were killed and about 100 others injured took place in Karachi, Pakistan, upon the arrival in town of the country’s Chief Justice, Iftikhar Muhammad Chaudhry. Chaudhry was coming to address the city bar association on the 50th anniversary of the establishment of the Sindh High Court Bar Association. Apart from the deaths, roads were blocked and cars burned.

May 12, 2008 United States’ Immigration and Customs Enforcement officials conducted the largest-ever raid of a workplace in Postville. Nearly 400 immigrants were arrested for identity theft and document fraud. About 300 were convicted for document fraud. The majority served a five-month prison sentence before being deported. Several employees, lower and middle level managers were also indicted for conspiracy.

National Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

Thursday, May 12, 2016

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I don’t believe in gender disparity in newsroom – Achum

Mrs. Grace Achum is the Editor-in-Chief of Business Plus magazine. A doctorate degree holder in media, she cut her teeth in journalism in the then Daily Times newspapers. In this interview with LEONARD OKACHIE, she bares her mind on the state of print media as well as issues affecting media practice in Nigeria generally. Excerpts:

ies. The magazine is circulated all over the country, including the State and National Assembly. I also use my members in the Nigeria Association of Women Journalists (NAWOJ) and the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ) to reach out to various states.

We have so many challenges in print publication in this country. Some magazines strived especially during the political era and after that they died off. It is supposed to be sustainable in the business sector but it suffers so much setback this time around because so much is happening around the country that the business is really going down.

Previously, Business Plus used to focus on the business sector such especially the banks, etc but today it is no longer so because even the banks are crying more than the bereaved. So what is going on now is a matter of struggling, trying to rock out water from the stone.

Again, because of the cost of materials most of the players in the paper industry have increased their own amount but Business Plus has not increased since we started even though all of us visit the same market. We are trying to get attention from our reader, buyers and advertisers.

We started with sixty something pages but today we are struggling with thirty something or forty something pages. So you can see how it has affected us.

Do you subscribe to the idea that the print media will die off because of the era of the New Media?

If the print media dies off it means we don’t have need for library; we don’t have need for history in schools. But without history the scientific world will not thrive because it is from archives.

Even when you have the electronic archives it is transient. I still believe in the print media because it is where you get your facts, your storage and your research. So I don’t believe in social media; it is just like the television and electronic gadgets. It is transient but print media remains.

There is a clamour for gender parity in Achum the newsroom to checkmate men’s dominance. What is your take on this?

I don’t believe in gender disparity. I believe in what you know best. I also believe in competitive How old is Business Plus magazine? world.

In a classroom when you have 50 or 60 students and probably you The magazine was established in 2004. When I left Daily have about 10 or 20 women you might find a girl that comes out first in that Times in 2002 as a journalist, I decided to fall back into my class.

So it depends on what you are able to do, what you are known for. I profession. Then I established Business Plus. I had my ofdon’t believe that any man can cheat me out. I have a lot of me men around fice adjacent to Anthony Village. Late Pascal Dozie was the me even in office. I believe in working with men. It is all about theme work. one that ventured into publication. We started together. He How would you describe the media industry in Nigeria? died four years after and I continued with the publication.

The media in Nigeria is supposed to be a paying industry because the It is a monthly publication. practitioners suffer to get news. Unfortunately, Nigerians are not transparConsidering the dwindling fortune in print media ent.

Before you are able to get a fact it is difficult. The media industry in business lately how have you been able to sustain the Nigeria is struggling to survive. magazine since inception?

Nigerians are selfish even as chief executive officers. They don’t care for The reading culture in Nigeria is very poor. We generate welfare of their workers. They are not paying their workers. The owners fund through a few of our advertisers as well as sales cop-

of newspaper house are very selfish. They make things difficult for their reporters and then the Nigerian government make things difficult for their citizens. But we must tell the truth and that is why we are still in the industry.

Journalists are working under very difficult condition in this country, but they must always balance the fact. I am begging them that no matter how difficult they should keep up the good work they are doing because they are the voice of the voiceless in this country. If they are bought by the politicians then the voiceless will die off in this country. If no man sees thee worth of what you are doing as journalist then God has a way to reward you.

In spite of all these challenges why are you still in the industry?

It is passion. I’m that kind of person that I don’t like somebody being cheated. Once I see that somebody is trying to do harm to another innocent person I raise it up. They have tried to silent me. Even the current government I don’t know how many times they have sent messages to even NUJ on my write-up but I don’t bother because I’m trying to raise my voice. I know that a lot of people are suffering, they just need a voice.

Somebody must raise their voice.

Could you share some of your experiences in this profession especially with the Daily Times?

Daily Times was like a family. It is gigantic training ground and once you see any person who has passed through either Daily Times school or medium you find that person being exceptional in any field of endeavour. I must confess that I pass through Daily Times and I was happy that I did. I would not want government of the day to close their eyes and allow Daily Times to die. It must not die because as far as I am concerned it is one of the gigantic and highly respected print media in Africa.I am not happy with the controversies surrounding Daily Times. So the government of the day should do something and ensure that it comes back.

I joined Daily Times as a reporter in 1996.

Later I headed the style desk under Saturday Times. I was then given a bigger portfolio to combine my desk with managing the Miss Nigeria department. I managed the department till 2002 when I resigned.

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Ajimobi assures of making BC0S reference point Kemi Olaitan Ibadan

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overnor Abiola Ajimobi of Oyo State has assured of the commitment of his administration to make the stateowned Broadcasting Corporation of Oyo State (BCOS), a reference point in broadcasting in the country.

The governor, who said this at a strategy session organized for BCOS in Ibadan by KPMG International, said the station would soon witness a radical transformation that would make it a profitable multi-media entertainment and communication business.

He said the forum was organized in conjunction with KPMG to examine and fashion out the way forward for the BCOS of his administration’s dream.

He said, “It is my expectation that the new BCOS will be a modern organization whose manpower is made up of some of the most creative and technically-savvy managers in the Nigerian entertainment industry; men and women whose managerial competencies rival those of their contemporaries across Africa, Asia, Europe and the Americas.

“It is our vision that our media enterprise will one day become the Mecca for all broadcast practitioners and stakeholders in Africa, to become renewed and reinvigorated in readiness for the fiercely competitive environment

of an impending digitalized broadcast regime.’’

According to him, part of his expectations is also to see the station whose operational business paradigm is in alignments with global best practices, where stakeholders’ investments are routinely rewarded by very high sustainable returns.

Ajimobi said the state deserved no less from its long investment and heritage in mass communication, entertainment art and culture, starting with broadcasting media’s nascent beginning in Africa under the guiding spirit of the late sage, Chief Obafemi Awolowo.

He recalled that on assumption of office in 2011, his administration’s immediate focus and action plan was to ensure the security of lives and property of the citizenry as well as the restoration of the decrepit infrastructure.

While most of the state’s scarce resources were committed to achieving security and infrastructural development across the state, he said he was not unmindful that the true and lasting change needed was to build infrastructure of the mind of the citizenry.

“To do this, we always knew we needed to change our people’s attitude by changing their paradigms and thinking patterns. To achieve this paradigm shift, we knew we needed the right communication platform that is credible, respectable and trusted enough to be believ-

OLX wins best Classified Advert Website of the Year

able. We knew we needed BCOS, but not the BCOS that we inherited in 2011.

“We want a more holistic restructuring and repositioning that will ensure a sustainable and profitable future for the corporation. We want a new BCOS that will fulfill the dreams of one of its founding fathers, Chief Bola Ige, who, at the inauguration of the Television Service of Oyo State (TSOS) proclaimed the vision that our media enterprise would one day become the Mecca for all broadcast practitioners and stakeholders in Africa’’, he stated.

Consequently, he said a team of creative and respectable professionals was drafted to do a quick, surgical fix, even if for the interim.

He, however, promised that his administration wanted to do more for the state-owned broadcasting organization.

Sekinah Lawal emerges NAWOJ chairperson Leonard Okachie

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ssistant Editor of National Mirror Newspaper, Hajia Sekinah Lawal has emerged the new Chairman of the Lagos Chapter of the Nigeria Association of Women Journalists.

The new Chairman who was elected unopposed at the monthly Congress of the association in Ikeja-Lagos at the weekend took over from Mrs. Dupe Olaoye-Osinkolu who has served two terms in office.

The Secretary of the association, Ifejola Otun and the Treasurer, Oyeyemi GbengaMustapha of The Nation were also returned unopposed.

In her acceptance speech, Mrs. Lawal said the new executive would make training and retraining of members an important aspect of their programmes both in terms of getting better professionally and as entrepreneurs during and after active service.

L-R : Country Manger OLX Lola Masha ; Africa Co-Chair for Publicity, Communications at WFIoT, Chris Uwaje; Brand Marketing manager, OLX, Fife Aiyesimoju, and PR & Communication Lead, OLX Uche Nwagboso during the Beacon of Information & Communication Technology Award (BoICT) in Lagos

Leonard Okachie

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eading online classifieds site, OLX.com.ng, won the award for Classified Advert Website of the Year at the 7th edition of Beacon of Information & Communications Technology Awards (BoICT) which held recently in Lagos.

While receiving the award on behalf of the company, Country Manager, OLX, Lola Masha thanked the organizers of the awards for their recognition.

Masha stated that she was humbled by the award which was a testimony of OLX’s commitment to helping Nigerians win by selling their used goods to earn extra cash especially in this challenging economy.

“We are truly honoured to have emerged winners in this category. I want to specially thank our OLX users for their loyalty. I will like to dedicate this award to them and to

the OLX team for their commitment.” she said The Beacon of ICT Awards is annual ICT awards recognizing organizations’ or individuals’ contributions to ICT development in Nigeria. The theme for this year’s award ceremony was “Data Centre as Kiln of Industrialization and Transformation”.

The ceremony had in attendance major players in the e-commerce industry across various sectors of the economy, who gathered to celebrate outstanding achievement in various categories of the award.

OLX is the world’s leading classifieds platform in growth markets and is available in more than 45 countries and over 50 languages. OLX connects local people to buy, sell or exchange used goods and services by making it fast and easy for anyone to post an ad through the mobile app.

Every month, over 300 million people in local markets around the world use OLX’s online marketplace to find and sell a wide range of products, including vehicles, electronics, phones and much more.

Ajimobi

Sekinah Lawal

The new NAWOJ boss promised to put in place a reconciliation committee to resolve all issues of aggrieved members.

“Also, we will be collaborating with our parent body to ensure that members’ welfare are taken care of so that we can truly discharge our duties as the watch-dog of the society. The change mantra going through our nation must also reflect in the media profession. Ours is going to be a team work and I can assure all members that we will all need to serve the association in various capacity.” Mrs. Lawal promised.

The Chairman of the state council of the Nigeria Union of Journalists, NUJ, Mr. Deji Elumoye said some of the contestants were not cleared because they did not meet some of the NUJ constitutional requirements.

“We will be setting a bad precedent if we have to be waiving the union’s constitutional requirements. But we believe all issues will be amicably resolved,” he concluded.

National Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

Young & Next Media

Thursday, May 12, 2016

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Lagos Theatre Festival created opportunities for young talents–Uphohpo Kenneth Uphopho has built a solid career for himself in Nollywood, as an actor, a teacher and an all round stage practitioner. He has carved a niche for himself in discovering and developing new theatre acts. In this chat with LEONARD OKACHIE, the Festival Director of the 2016 edition of the Lagos Theatre Festival speaks about the success of the festival.

Excerpts:

Why Lagos Theatre Festival?

The Lagos Theatre Festival is the Largest Festival in Nigeria that promotes theatre in unconventional spaces. This is supposed to encourage theatre makers and producers to see beyond the traditional theatre spaces to creating work that would respond to any given space. You can see that theatre is just becoming vibrant again in recent times.

What inspired this year’s Lagos Theatre Festival?

One of the biggest challenges plaguing the theatre industry has always been space to exhibit their work. Too many producers vying for slots at same venues and no specifically built theatre apart from the National Theatre, that’s not accessible to producers. This initiative by the British Council was inspired by the need to provide an enabling environment for theatre producers in Nigeria to produce work for different spaces and to develop audiences for these works.

The LTF was a resounding success. How did you and your team develop ideas for the 2016 edition?

The maiden edition held at Eko Hotel & Suites in 2013 and 4 unusual spaces were used for the plays.

There was a car park, The Presidential Suite, A Restaurant and the Garden area. The following year, spaces such as a bar/lounge, an open lawn behind a radio station and a gatehouse were considered for theatre productions that were specifically produced to suit these spaces. There was even a promenade performance of an audio tour of the festival Hub at the time.

These experiments influenced the programming of the just concluded edition of the festival which was on for 6 days from February 23 to February 28. The festival featured an unprecedented record showing of over 100 performances across 19 locations in Lagos City.

Trust me when I say it was really not an easy task. To ensure a smooth festival run, we had set in motion a plan to effectively manage the festival with the support of the Arts Team of the British Council and indeed the British Council.

Bear in mind that the planning of the festival started in March of 2015 when the announcement for a Festival Director was made. Since March 2015, a series of workshops,

press events, mentorship and capacity building interactions happened here at the Freedom Park and the University of Lagos with facilitators from the UK in the areas of Production Design, Production Management, Front Of House and Stage Management.

How did you select the production houses that participated in the Festival?

There were opportunities for new writers to send in their work to be performed at the festival.

Shortlisted writers had the opportunity to attend a creative writing workshop led by Professor Ahmed Yerima in August.

Did you get external assistance in putting together the LTF? Who were your partners?

The production team led by myself attended to the Brighton Fringe, the largest arts festival in England where we met and shared experiences with other festival producers and participants. In fact, Julian Caddy, Managing Director of the Brighton Fringe and Sarah Perryman were mentors to the LTF Production team on this edition of the festival and I must say all the discussions, meetings and seminars really paid off at the end.

The knowledge gained from

Uphohpo

these facilitators helped in the design and programming for the festival. Every member of the team was well equipped for the task they set to do and because we had months and months of planning, executing the plans during the festival was smooth. We had partners also that supported the festival in various degrees. Our Venue partners who put up some producers at their venues at no cost, our friends of the festival too numerous to mention that supported the publicity and marketing campaigns of the festival and of course First Bank our main sponsor. Their contributions to the festival are invalu-

able.

What did you do differently this year to ensure the festival was a success? What exactly stood out for you?

In the operations for the festival, there were times when we visited rehearsals of the different companies to encourage them, see the progress of work done and to also ensure compliance to health and safety regulations. We realized quite early that because the objective of the festival is in producing work in unusual spaces which sometimes could be outdoors, there’s the tendency for some experiments to be uninhibited and

we wanted to manage that. Also these rehearsals spanned between four to six weeks of work for maximum output.

I am particularly glad about the kind of work that was produced at the festival. Some producers are breaking boundaries and setting new standards in site specific theatre. One of our international acts, Brian Lobel, had just little over a week to rehearse with the Nigerian Actors that were billed to perform with him in his digital play titled PURGE. Gideon Okeke and Dolapo Oni would go ahead to prove themselves in this showcase from all the feedback that we got from audience members that saw the show.

Another interesting feature of the festival is the fact that we had over 400 participants in the festival across the board. It’s interesting because from the onset the biggest challenge was how to convince the stakeholders that this festival was ours to celebrate with a sense of ownership to be a able to produce a world class festival worthy of emulation. With the outcome of the festival, I am thrilled that by getting everyone to commit to producing the festival together we made this edition the biggest yet. Of course there are areas we want to improve upon by the next edition but we are happy that we covered the scope of the festival that was designed and even surpassed it. The level of our social media engagement has quadrupled in the space of three months and we have more people talking about #LTF2016.

Why does Ice float on water?

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cool glass of water topped with huge chunks of ice is sure to quench your thirst on a hot day.

But, before you guzzle the water, look at how the ice floats on the water surface. How do these large ice pieces manage to stay afloat?

Ice floats because it is less dense than water. (If you take a one-litre container with ice and weigh it, it will be lighter than a similar container with water.)

All materials are made up of molecules. These molecules are either bound tightly to each other or are loosely bound. This packaging of molecules is called density. The tighter the molecules, the higher the density of the material.

Water flows because the molecules are loosely bound. When you heat water, the molecules go farther apart, converting water into a gas called water vapour.

When you freeze water, the water molecules come closer and increase the density. But, this process stops

less dense than liquid water. In other words, the density of water reaches a maximum at four degrees Celsius and lowering of the temperature only decreases the density.

after a point. If you freeze water beyond four degrees Celsius, the water molecules stop contracting and start moving apart. This is called the anomalous expansion of water.

You can check this by filling a plastic jar with water and putting it in the freezer overnight. The next day, you will see that the jar has stretched (or even cracked) and the ice has extended beyond the point till which you had filled water.

This happens because at four degrees Celsius, water molecules are packed as tight as possible and any attempt to push them closer (by lowering the temperature) only causes strain – the water molecules begin repelling each other and move apart.

At freezing point, the molecules form a type of structure that has a lot of air gaps – making the ice much

Ice floating on water

Since water freezes well below four degrees Celsius (at zero degrees Celsius), ice is less dense than water and so it floats.

Source: Pitara

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Young & Next Media

Thursday, May 12, 2016

National Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

Academy empowers 200 female undergraduates Leonard Okachie

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orried by the alarming rate of unemployment in Nigeria, a group, Gazzelle Academy Vocational Centre has trained over 200 undergraduates of the University of Nigeria, Nsukka (UNN) in the areas of fashion and makeup.

The exercise which was in partnership with Fidelity Bank was to equip the youths with entrepreneur skills in order to strive.

Speaking with journalists, the founder of Gazzelle Academy, Muna Onuzo, described the experience as enlightening and fulfilling, stressing that “It was an incredible experience from the beginning to the end. It left a huge impression on the students such that they wished the training didn’t end.”

She said the five-day programme was impactful, stressing: “The UNN students impressed us with their quick and intuitive learning, which further justifies and reinforces the statement that Nigerians are academically gifted! Though it was an accelerated learning process, the beneficiaries finished their project on time.

“We were pleased with their creativity, discipline and thirst to learn. When we saw what they produced after just two days of practical skill training, it became an emotional journey for my team, the Fidelity bank representatives who were our sponsors and the UNN representatives who were the beneficiaries.”

Onuzo explained that the students were trained in the areas of fashion and beauty, adding: “UNN

Beneficiaries of the vocational training at the University of Nigeria, Nsukka

is known for professional courses such as Engineering, Law and a host of others. Therefore, it was a welcome change for them when we introduced skill acquisition in fashion and beauty to the students. For fashion, we trained the students on tailoring and stoning.

“Another group of hundred were taught makeup artistry. The students before the programme had neither the opportunity to cut a fabric before nor pedalled a sewing machine, but they created a near perfect version of what they were taught in a matter of days both in the makeup and fashion classes.”

Speaking on her committment to empowering the youth, the moth-

er of two stressed that to ignore the restiveness of today’s youth was akin to ignoring a field with buried land mines.

“I was shaped by the experiences of my youth. This formed a solid foundation for who I have become today. It is not news anymore; we are the future. Yet, there is a seething dissatisfaction with the system that governs our today’s existence in Nigeria. For us, at the Gazzelle Academy, investing in the Nigerian youths through empowering them with practical skills and enterprise training that compliment their educational certificates, gives them and us a sense of purpose.”

We will put priority on corps members’ welfare –Minister Joel Ajayi Abuja

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inister of Youth and Sports, Mr. Solomon Dalung has revealed that the present administration is putting more priority on the welfare of the corps members in the country.

He stated this during a one-day inspection visit to the Tsafe Permanent Orientation Camp in Zamfara State as part of his effort at obtaining firsthand knowledge of the welfare and security of corps across the country.

The facilities inspected include the medical clinic, male and female hostels, power house, mammy market and boreholes that supplied water to the camp.

Addressing the NYSC members, Dalung announced that a new ambulance with ancillary medical facilities will be provided without delay. He added that a bigger stand-by generator that will improve light in the camp and upgrading of facility at the kitchen is to be undertaken.

The minister also assured them of the determination of the present government of President Muhammad Buhari to tackle headlong the serious youth unemployment problem and other youth development

challenges facing the country.

He urged them to keep faith with the present “Government of Change” that is poised to ensure that Nigerian youth are given adequate attention and involvement as leaders of tomorrow.

He also admonished them not to be deterred by the present harsh economic condition caused by failure of past government to adequately address the problems of youth but added that hard times don’t last but focused people do.

“Don’t be discouraged. Destiny can be delayed but not be denied.

Perseverance is an attribute of leadership. Today’s imposition on youth is temporary; and with collective re-

Corps members

solved we will be victorious. Time is now ripe to unbundle the potentials of the youth, you have to be trained.

Surrender yourself to best training” he advised.

The minister, who said the future belongs to the youth however, urged them to be focused, determined and shun negative tendencies like alcoholism, drug addiction, cultism and the passion to get rich quick.

While welcoming the minister to the camp, the State Coordinator informed the him that 1,527 corps members were presently undergoing orientation in the 2016 Batch A, adding that they were well behaved and adapting favourably well.

Also, Onuzo added that the regrettable state of unemployment among young graduates had brought about frustration of different kinds.

“With retrenchments all over the corporate community, we believe the youth should be equipped with at least one practical skill that would give them a fighting chance to survive if they are not able to find a job after graduation.”

She stressed that training the students came with a huge price but Fidelity Bank Plc and their media partners BEN TV were highly

helpful. “We appreciate the effort of Fidelity Bank, Ben TV and the wife of Enugu State Governor, Mrs. Monica Ugwuanyi.

“The Fidelity Bank identified with our goal, which is to teach the beneficiaries how to fish and also provide them with the knowledge and tools to fish successfully. Beneficiaries went away with not only business knowledge on pricing, branding, positioning, finance and marketing, they were also given sewing machines, pressing irons and makeup kits,” she shared.

UN envoy urges schools’ protection for African children

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eila Zerrougui, the UN Secretary-General’s Special Representative for Children and Armed Conflict, said protecting schools from attacks and military use was essential to ensuring access to education for children in Africa.

A statement issued on Tuesday said Zerrougui made this known while briefing African Union’s Peace and Security Council during the third annual Open Session On Children and Armed Conflict in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia.

She said world leaders should use the upcoming World Humanitarian Summit (WHS) scheduled for May 23 to May 24 in Istanbul, Turkey, to generate new commitments to ensure that conflicts did not mean the end of learning for millions of children.

She added that “schools in the Central African Republic, the Democratic Republic of Congo, Libya, Mali, Nigeria, Somalia, South Sudan and Sudan, have been looted, pillaged, damaged and destroyed during military operations, putting the future of an entire generation at risk.

“Attacks against schools and military use have become a common aspect of today’s conflicts, with longterm consequences, especially on

fragile education systems.’’

The special representative emphasised the heavy burden placed on communities and post-conflict societies to rebuild schools and bring back skilled teachers, noting that ``the AU and its member states can and must make a difference by including measures to end and prevent attacks against schools in domestic legislation.

“They can also include the criminalisation of these acts, and must hold perpetrators accountable,’’ she said.

She urged member states to endorse the Safe School Declaration, developed in 2015 through an intergovernmental political process.

Zerrougui also urged them to commit to implement the “Guidelines for Protecting Schools and Universities from Military Use during Armed Conflict” adopted in December 2014.

The Declaration, she said, had already been endorsed by 15 African countries.

She recalled that the international community had firmly put the protection of schools on the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development and urged governments to take action to realise that collective commitment.

Thursday, May 12, 2016

IN CONJUNCTION WITH

AFE BABALOLA UNIVERSITY, ADO-EKITI (ABUAD)

National Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

23

Education Today

The future of quality and functional education in Nigeria is in ABUAD —Aare Afe Babalola

‘Economic depression inhibits growth of book industry’

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Conference proffers solution to Nigerian varsities’ problems ...delegates pledge to adopt template

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Okojie blames challenges confronting education on poor quality L-R: Country Director, British Council Nigeria, Mrs. Connie Price; Executive Secretary, National Universities Commission, Prof. Julius Okojie; Senate Chairman on Tertiary Education and TETFUND, Senator Masi Binta Garba; Vice-Chancellor, Turkish Nile University Abuja, Prof. Huseyin Sert and Partnerships Manager, British Council Nigeria, Mr. Chikodi Onyemerela during the world education conference, tagged: “Going Global 2016” in Cape Town, South Africa…last week.

Tunbosun Ogundare

JUST BACK FROM SOUTH AFRICA

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NGO trains poly students on conflict mitigation

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t was as if this year’s world education conference was organised mainly for Nigeria. virtually all the issues discussed and proffered solutions had to do with pressing challenges confronting our tertiary education.

Chief among these issues are the best way to stem the brain drain, how to ensure that universities offer curricula that reflect the 21st Century realities, the production of graduates that are capable of contributing meaningfully to nation building, increasing access and promoting gender equality, especially for women.

The conference with the theme “Building nations and connecting cultures: education policy, economic development and engagement’” also discussed how universities couldboost innovations and growth, especially in science and technology and vocational education to bring about strong economic development nationally and internationally; and how they could launch themselves in the map of universities with world reputation.

Another important issue discussed was how students could explore activism to get attention of school heads, policy makers and governments so as to influence decisions to their favour and consequently becoming change agents. But that was not all. The

delegates who are heads of government, ministers, vice-chancellors,researchers, lecturers, student activists, among others also agreed on the best practices to tackle graduates’ non-employability, especially in most of the Africa andAsiatic countries and how to conduct market and developmental-based researches and increase funding, among others. Interestingly, it was the first time the organiser of the annual event, British Council, a UK charity organisation, brought the 12-year-old conference, tagged:“Going Global 2016” to the African soil Cape Town, South Africa specifically. And it was a three-day event beginning from Tuesday May 3rd and held at the International Conference Centre with over 800 delegates in attendance and an additional 18 million people around the world viewing it live via the internet.

Just like Nigeria and many other countries in and outside Africa that are battling with high level of poverty and diseases despite their richness in human and material resources, the delegates strongly believe that running effective university system anywhere in the world would help in bailing out those countries from such unwholesome conditions.

The South African Minister for Higher Education and Training, Dr Blade Nzimande, who spoke at the preliminary session, for instance, re-emphasised that African universities had strong role to play in the quest to overcome vari-

ous challenges thwarting the development of the continent.

He said: “The main things for us to do as individual country is for our academics to, not only to undertake research and produce quality outputs that in the end will inform policy and influence positive outcomes for the greater good of society but must also work hard to change the location of thecontinent in knowledge production from consumer to producer of globally respected knowledge.”

For him, universities must be able to champion a necessary process of constant academic and cultural transformation to, among other things, engender excellence and more effective learning, as well as expand access to higher education and serve the needs and interests of the society.

On brain drain, the delegates agreed that stemming the flow was doable but only when government provides friendly working environment and competitive conditions of service as well as stir some level of patriotism into citizens notwithstanding their socio-economic conditions.

In her address of welcome, the Director, Education and Society, British Council, Professor Jo Beall and the Associate Dean – School of English and International Studies, Beijing Foreign Studies University, China, Professor Xie Tao were both agreed to the fact that in a global, interconnected world, CONTINUED ON PAGE 26

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Education Today

EKSU alumni give scholarship to indigents Abiodun Nejo ADO EKITI

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he Alumni Association of Ekiti State University (EKSU), AdoEkiti has earmarked N500, 000 as scholarship for 50 indigent students of the institution for 2015/16 academic session.

The National President of the group, Prof Matthew Ayeni, said the 2015/16 scholarship was a 150 per cent improvement on the 2014/15 session edition whereby the association gave N200,000 scholarship to 20 indigent students of the institution at N10,000 per beneficiary.

Ayeni, who spoke during the sixth Annual General Meeting of the Association in Akure, the Ondo State capital, appealed to members “to come to the aid of the university either in cash or kind.”

The president also appealed to Ekiti State Governor “to jack up the monthly allocation to the university so that it will not collapse and our dream of being in the unit position among Nigerian universities will come into reality.”

According to him, EKSU gets N260 million monthly as subvention from the state government whereas the monthly wage bill of the institution is N400 million leaving the university to source for N140 million monthly to augment salary payment.

Ayeni, who said the association’s intervention in matters that could have led to industrial dispute between the university and unions had put strikes on hold, praised the new Vice Chancellor, Professor Samuel OyeBandele, also an alumnus, for putting in place measures to move the university forward including convocation of Academic and IGR summits.

In a lecture entitled: “Giving Back to the Alma Mater: Challenges and Prospects for a Virile Alumni Association,” an alumnus and university teacher, Prof KunleAjayi of the Department of Political Science, EKSU said: “How much the graduates would care for and continuously contribute to the development of their alma mater is largely conditioned by how much such alma mater cared for their students before and after graduation.”

Ajayi urged members to actively participate in the association’s activities and as well strive to contribute their quotas to the development of EKSU “through financial, material and infrastructures donations”.

EKSU Alumni Board of Trustees Chairman, MrOlawaleJegede, harped on the need for unity among members of the association, saying the internal groupings which the different name changes witnessed by the institution had caused should be discontinued in the interest in progress.

Jegede lauded the association for its achievements and contribution to the development of EKSU and as well for honouring some outstanding members of the association on the occasion.

Bandele

Thursday, May 12, 2016

National Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

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cademicians and stakeholders in the book industry gathered at the University of Lagos, Akoka on Tuesday May, 10 and lamented the stagnation of the book industry as a result of the prevailing economic depression and the low value of naira.

Rilwanu Abudusalami, Chairman Nigerian Book Fair Trust said economic depression and unfriendly policies of government have impacted negatively on the book industry.

He noted that books have become more costly because of the high cost of foreign exchange needed either to produce or import books. Speaking to government, he said, ¬let me use this opportunity to call on government to put in place policies and legislation that would impact positively on the development of the book industry in Nigerian.

The Chairman added that it is a known fact that over a period of time government has not paid enough attention to the book industry despite its numerous challenges.

On the low value of the naira, Rilwanu said the constant rise in the exchange rate of the naira foreign currencies has negatively affected the production and sale of the pretended going by fact that most book use in Nigeria are published abroad.

“This situation has made most

L-R: Wife of the Vice President, Mrs. Dolapo Osinbajo; representative of the Minister of FCT, Dr. Babatope Ajakaiye and Director of Communication, Procter and Gamble (Producers of Always Feminine Care Brand), Noda Dugas, during presentation of certificates to 7,500 graduates of the Always-UNESCO Programme Empowering Girls and Women in Literacy and Skill Development through the use of ICT, in Abuja, recently.

Economic depression inhibits growth of book industry —Experts of our libraries practically empty because the necessary founds required are not readily available due to dwindling resources,” he added.

He said the Nigeria Book Fair Trust is ready to partner with government to improve the fortune of the book industry.

The Minister of Education, Mallam Adamu Adamu said that it is true that Nigeria has challenges of greeting access to books due to the high cost of importation.

He added that this situation has led to poor reading culture.

The Minister who was represented by the Director National library of Nigeria, Mallam Habib Tato, however assured the stakeholders in the book industry that government will partner with them to achieve a turnaround for the industry.

Governor of lagos State, Mr. Akinwunmi Ambode who was represented by Director of Higher Education in the La-

gos State Ministry of Education Sutton Bamidele, disclosed that government libraries in Yaba, Ilupeju, and Lagos Island are being refurbished and upgraded so that youths can have decent places they can visit and get books to read.

The Keynote speaker, Prof. Hope Eghagha of the English department, University of Lagos said reading is vital to socio – economic development of a nation and called on government to give priority to education funding.

NOUN offers prisoners free tuition Tunbosun Ogundare

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n keeping with its mandate of making university education accessible to the less privileged in the society, the National Open University of Nigeria (NOUN) has granted a 100 percent waiver to prison inmates desiring higher education across the country. The free tuition covers any course of studies at diploma, first and masters’ degree levels.

The Vice - Chancellor of the university, Prof. AbdallaAdamu made the disclosure in Abuja when the Vice-Chancellor of Turkish Nile University, Abuja, Prof.

HuseyinSert paid him a courtesy visit recently, saying the waiver which before now was pegged at 50 per cent would enable the inmates have unfettered access to university education without compromising quality and consequently encourage others to take advantage of the initiative to acquire education.

Citing lack of meaningful social support system for inmates to acquire education in the country, Prof Adamu said, “Having suffered abandonment by relatives, emotional and physical confinement, prison inmates would see such gesture from NOUN as a measure meant to reduce the burden on them and to provide the platform to improve and make themselves better citizens.”

In a release signed by the Director, Media and Publicity of the institution, Malam Ibrahim Sheme, the Vice - Chan-

cellor further explained that NOUN, being a single mode institution charged with the responsibility of adding lifelong value to those yearning for quality education, would also explore the option of taking education to young girls, who for cultural reasons cannot access it.

He however expressed NOUN’s willingness to collaborate with Turkish Nile University not only in the areas of peace studies and conflict resolution based on the global threat to peace and cultural performances but also in exchangepro-

grammes for staff and students of both institutions.

Speaking earlier, Prof. Sert. who is a medical doctor described Nigeria and Turkey as countries with mutually beneficial potentials.

Ho however noted that part of the Corporate Social Responsibility of his university was to collaborate with state governments in Nigeria to improve access to tertiary education, adding that it has found a ready ally in NOUN to achieve the initiative.

Cross section of students in one of the centers for the Always Programme in Abuja, recently.

National Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

Okojie blames challenges confronting education on poor quality

E

xecutive Secretary, National Universities Commission (NUC), Professor Julius Okojie has said that the major challenges confronting education were access and quality.

He disclosed this when the Chief Executive Officer, AMAINONE International paid him a courtesy visit recently in the office.

The executive secretary who was represented by Deputy Executive Secretary, Prof.

Chiedu Mafiana however said that the Commission was doing its best to address them, through inspection, monitoring and other regulatory activities.

He said this led to the birth of the Nigeria Research Education Network (NgREN) which was spearheaded by the commission.

He observed that the journey of the REN dated back to the year 1995 when it was first mooted, but was later realised with the launch, in July 2014.

He stated that the NgREN provided a platform whereby all universities that subscribed to the Network had the opportunity to share information seamlessly, with other added services at a very cheap rate.

He added that NgREN was a non-profit project, which is domiciled in the NUC for the benefit of universities and other research institutes and run in partnership with Airtel, EBSCOhost, among others.

In her remarks, Mrs. Funke Opeke disclosed that the outfit was concerned with providing access to information and Communication Technology (ICT) facilities in the education sector and had been offering internet services to some universities in the country.

She noted that, having successfully deployed similar ICT facilities in the universities, the company needed to further explore the opportunities available in the NgREN, so as to offer the REN’s web contents to existing clients and other potential customers. She added that Opeke said MAINONE International was interested in bridging technology gaps in Nigeria; by improving quality and standards of internet services offered in the education sector, with the realisation that internet was a useful tool for global development.

Bursary- NANS gives Niger governor 7 days ultimatum

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Education Today

Thursday, May 12, 2016

ational Association of Nigeria Students (NANS) has given the Niger state government a 7-days ultimatum.

The group said failure to meet their demands would resolve in a three days protest.

The students are demanding introduction of overseas scholarship and restructuring the moribund bursary scheme The leadership of the National Association of Nigeria Students (NANS) Zone A axis, Niger State is set for a showdown with the state government as it has given a 7-days ultimatum to address both open and salient issues raised in the memo sent to it.

The students group threatening that, failure to do so will resolve in a three days protest, tagged, “Occupy NIGER.” This was contained in a letter addressed to the state governor, Alhaji Abubakar Sanni Belo on Saturday, May 7, which was signed by Comrade Faruk Musa and Comrade Ismail Oyebanji, the chairman and secretary.

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Our aim is to give best medical education to Nigerian students —VC Saidat Alausa

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ice-Chancellor, University of Ilorin, Prof. AbdulGaniyu Ambali has said that one of the aims of the university is to give Nigerian youths the best available medical education.

He explained that this is why the university continues to shop around the world for the best ideas in this regard.

He stated this recently while receiving members of the Medical Education Partnership Initiative in Nigeria (MEPIN) in his office.

He disclosed that “we mounted a concerted effort to make Unilorin a bit of the United States (of America), a bit of the United Kingdom and elsewhere.

We look at those bits and pieces that make them better, and we domesticate these in such a way that improves learning in the institution.

This is with a realisation that not every Nigerian can afford to send their children overseas to pursue medical education.”

The Vice-Chancellor pointed out that the Clinical Skills Laboratory at the University’s College of Health Sciences is one of the best in the world, judging by such facilities available in some of the most advanced countries that he had visited.

Prof. Ambali pledged the

readiness of the university to share its experience and endowments with their peers, stressing that “it is only the knowledge that is shared that is real knowledge.”

The Vice-Chancellor disclosed that the University of Ilorin places a high premium on research across the various disciplines, saying this was the reason for the establishment of the world-class Central Research Laboratory in the institution.

On the issue of skill in writing for grants, the ViceChancellor, told members of MEPIN that the research manager in conjunction with an expert from abroad are al-

ready training researchers at the University, adding that the training is already yielding results with an increase in the number of grants coming to researchers in the university.

Earlier in his remarks, the MEPIN team leader, Dr. Wadzani Gashau from the University of Maiduguri, said that the potential of the university is great, judging by its holistic approach to education, noting in addition that the university has the best Information Communication Technology (ICT) infrastructure in the country.

The team leader pointed out that MEPIN provides an opportunity to address many of the challenges facing the Nige-

rian educational institutions today with the overall goal of improving and strengthening the medical education system in the country.

He explained that MEPIN is a consortium of six universities from the six geopolitical zones in the country, saying that its purpose is to enhance medical knowledge and skills in Nigeria. The MEPIN member-institutions are the University of Jos, the University of Maiduguri, the University of Ibadan, Ahmadu Bello University (ABU), Zaria, the University of Nigeria, Nsukka, and the University of Lagos.

L-R: Former President, Federal Republic of Nigeria, Chief Olusegun Obasanjo; Chancellor, Covenant University, Ota, Dr. David Oyedepo; Nigeria’s Permanent Representative to the United Nations and Keynote speaker, 3rd Covenant University International Conference on African Issues, Prof. Joy Ogwu and Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Charles Ayo during the opening ceremony of CU-ICADI 2016 on Monday.

NGO trains poly students on conflict mitigation James Abraham JOS

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purimac Onlus,a non government organisation working in the area of peace and human capacity building says it is training students of higher institutions to fill the gap in the conflict resolution needs of their schools and host communities.

Country Director of AprimacOnlus,Mr Godwin Okoko told journalists in Jos during a training organised for Students of Plateau state Polytechnic that the non Governmental Organisation was also enhancing the capacity of vocational and technical skills of the students,youths,women and other categories of people in the society.

He added that the initiatives would help to reduce violent conflicts in the institution of higher learning as well as reduce the problem of job search among students after graduation.

“We need people to know not just about conflicts presence but conflict transformation. They can use it improve on their studies and also to improve our

communities.”

The Country Director said the training which was the first of its kind will be expanded to enable other students benefit.

President of the Student Union Government PLAPOLY, Pius Tongmaan who was among the students that attended

the training programme said his colleagues would utilize the knowledge gained to enhance greater understanding and cordial relationship between the institution’s management, his colleagues and the community for the good of all.

L-R: Tenciemen of Badagry Kingdom, Chief Ajose Harrison; HRM Oba of Badagry Dewheno Aholu Menu Toyi I, and Vice-Chancellor, Lagos State University, Ojo, Prof.

‘Lanre Fagbohun during the VC’s courtesy visit to the Oba of Badagry recently.

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Education Today

Nigerian Professor emerges president, SETAC-Africa Saidat A lausa

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rofessor of Biochemistry, Pollution Control and Biotechnology Unit, Department of Biochemistry, University of Nigeria, Nsukka, Enugu State, Ikechukwu Onwurah has emerged President, Society of Environmental Toxicology and Chemistry (SETAC), Africa.

With this development, Onwurah, a distinguished Area Pastor in the Redeemed Christian Church of God, Nsukka, became the first Nigerian to assume the coveted post.

SETAC is a nonprofit, global professional organisation comprised of some 6,000 members and institutions dedicated to the study, analysis and solution of environmental problems, the management and regulation of natural resources, research and development, and environmental education.

Onwurah

Since 1979, the society has provided a forum where scientists, managers and other professionals exchange information and ideas.

SETAC was founded to fill the void in interdisciplinary communication among environmental scientists, biologists, chemists, toxicologists, and environmental managers and engineers.

A unique strength of the society is its commitment to balance the interests of academia, business and industry, and government.

Like many other professional societies, SETAC publishes esteemed scientific journals and convenes annual meetings replete with poster and platform presentations.

However, because of its multidisciplinary approach, the scope of the science of SETAC is much broader in concept and application than that of most other societies.

The SETAC World Council is comprised of leaders from all five geographic units.

Members representing the executive boards and council from Africa, Asia and Pacific, Europe, Latin America and North America ensure a global approach on society decisions and directions.

SETAC is an open and democratic organization and members are represented by elected officials from the geographic unit in which they reside.

Don donates books to university Williams Attah GOMBE

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renowned Professor of Biogeography and Deputy Director Research and Publication Directorate of the Nasarawa State University Keffi, has donated books worth thousands of naira to the Federal University Gashua, Yobe State.

Professor Haruna Kuje Ayuba while making the donations said the gesture was part of his contribution to the development of education in Nigeria.

He said, he had the full conviction that the books would help in the area

of uplifting research and scholarship in the new university that is taking off in an encouraging manner.

According to the University’s head of information and protocol, Mallam Adamu Saleh, in a statement made available to National Mirror, the Vice-Chancellor of the university, Professor Andrew Haruna, commended the donor and called for more of such gestures from well meaning individuals.

He said the donation by Professor Ayuba would no doubt assist students and staff of the university as well as adding great value to learning in the institution.

Thursday, May 12, 2016

National Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

I support Buhari’s fight on corruption —FUTMINNA VC Priscilla Dennis MINNA

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ice-Chancellor of the Federal University of Technology(FUT), Minna, Prof. Musbau Akanji said he fully supports the fight against corruption by the President Muhammadu Buhari led administration.

According to him, corruption had taken deep roots into the fabric of the nation, hence any one that has the interest of the coun-

try would not stay back, but supports the presidents’ effort in ridding the system of it.

Prof. Akanji threw his weight behind Buhari on the issue at the Personality Platform organised by the Niger state Correspondent Chapel of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ) in Minna.

He stated, “I am with President Buhari one hundred and twenty percent in the fight against corrup-

tion. It has eaten deep into the system; it is dragging us backwards and also destroying us.

“I know it is biting hard on some people but of course, we have to suffer before we start enjoying.

Anyone who has the love of Nigeria at heart will support Buhari’s drive.”

Against this backdrop, the VC told members of the Correspondents Chapel that his University has set up an anti-corruption unit.

According to him, constituting the unit would assist FUT Minna check activities in the institution particularly in the protection of students from fraudsters who are roaming around the school.

Akanji also revealed that from henceforth, the university would be holding its annual convocation every first day of February to commemorate with its founder’s day.

Conference proffers solution to Nigerian universities’ problems CONTINUED FROM PAGE 23

people cannot be confined to a place but the huge investment in infrastructures and welfare by government can encourage many to remain in their countries. Citing the case of China concerning why many Chinese would not want to come back home to stay permanently, Xie, who is a Professor ofPolitical Science blamed the situation on some factors that include but not limited to environmental pollution, unsafe food and health issues. But the higher education and universities in particular according to him could rise up to the challenge and make things work for the betterment of thecitizenry.In his own contribution, President of association of Vice- Chancellors of African Universities, who is also the Vice-Chancellor of Federal University ofAgriculture, Abeokuta, Professor Olusola Oyewole noted that improving in funding, provision of modern infrastructure,working tolls and conducive environment would in no smallmeasure help higher institutions anywhere in the world to stem brain drain.

Interestingly, many other leaders in the nation’s tertiary education sector were delegates at the conference and they all pledged to make good use of the knowledge they gained at the forum back home. They said it was not as if there was no positive thing to point to in the nation’s university education, but the issue was that there was need to improve on the system to a level that it would become a force to reckon with internationally. While pledging to improve on their responsibilities back home, they equally agreed that the solutions proffered to issues

L-R: Nigeria’s Acting High Commissioner to South Africa, Mr. Martins Cobham; National Mirror Education correspondent, Mr. Tunbosun Ogundare and Secretary, Committee of Vice-Chancellors in Nigeria, Prof. Michael Faborode at the just concluded world education conference, tagged: “Going Global 2016” in Cape Town, South Africa. discussed were capable of taking the nation’s higher education to the next level.

The Executive Secretary of the National Universities Commission and Chairman of Committeeof ViceChancellors in Nigeria who is also the Vice-chancellor of the Federal University of Technology Akure, Prof.

Ademola Adebiyi as well as the secretary of the committee, Prof. Michael Faborode were among the Nigerian delegates. The ViceChancellors of University of Lagos, Akoka, Prof. Rahamon Bello; University of Nigeria, Nsukka, Prof. Benjamin Ozumba; Bayero University, Kano, Prof. Muhammad Bello; Turkish Nile University, Abuja, Prof. Huseyin Sert; Abubakar Tafawa Balewa University, Bauchi, Prof.

Ibrahim Saminu; University of Jos, Prof. HaywardMafuyai and Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Academics), BabcockUniversity, Ilisan-Remo, Prof.

Iheanyichukwu Okoro were also at the conference.

Others include the Senate Committee Chairman on Higher Education and TETFUND, Senator Masi Binta Gabar; a young fash-

ion entrepreneur graduate from Covenant University, Ota, Mrs. Eseoghene Odiete, who also made a presentation on entrepreneurship at the conference; Acting Nigeria’s High Commissioner to South Africa, Mr. Martins Cobham and his deputy, Felix Idigbe; country director British Council Nigeria, Mrs. Connie Price and Partnerships Manager of the organisation, Mr. Chikodi Onyemerela and a host of others.

Unfortunately,the Minister of State for Education, Prof.

Anthony Anwuka, who was billed to speak alongside his counterparts from South Africa and Kenya as well as the President of Mauritus, Ameenah GuribFakim on “National goals and tertiary education approaches: Made in African Solutions” was absent at the forum and was not represented. But Okojie in an interview told national Mirror that it was high time Nigerian universities doubled their efforts and effectively meet their tripartite mandates of teaching, research and community services. While promising that Nigerian universities would now intensify globalisation drive in the areas of collaborations and

exchange programmes with other universities in both developed and developing economies, he pointed out that doing so would encourage healthy competition. ‎On the consistent low ranking of all Nigerian universities globally, the NUC boss said it was not as if Nigerian universities are doing badly but that the parameters, especially research, web present, publications, which form the basis of such rankings are just unfavourable not only to Nigeria but all the universities in Africa, essentially because they are relatively younger.

Even at that, he pointed out, that our universities would continue to strive to get better by the day so as to stem brain drain and the crave for foreign studies and at the same time attract both foreign lecturers and students as well as produce graduates who would not only be economically relevant but employable.

Now that the conference has come and gone, only time will tell if the delegates’ words would be matched with actions.

National Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

Education Today

Thursday, May 12, 2016

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Religion and national values curriculum not working

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he recent national uproar over some aspects of the new basic education curriculum has again brought to the forefront the problem of inconsistencies in our national educational programmes. The latest review was largely the outcome of the Presidential Summit on Education in October 2010 which recommended the reduction in the number of subjects offered at the level of basic education. The reasons for the recommendation include reducing the work load of pupils and students in order to improve performance, to reflect societal needs and aspirations and to keep pace with global trends.

It is barely two years since the implementation of the nine year basic education curriculum commenced in September 2008. It is our belief however that the short time available for observation would not yield sufficient information to permit reliably evaluation of the performance of the basic education programme. Hasty reviews and misinformed decisions have been the bane of our educational system, and are responsible to a large extent for the gross instability in our Nigerian educational system since inception.

In an attempt to reduce the number of individual subjects offered at the various levels of the Basic Education Programme, different subjects were coalesced to create supersubjects including Religion and Nigerian Values Education (RNVE), Basic Science and Technology, and Pre-Vocational Studies. Each of these super-subjects consists of three to five subjects which were previously taught as individual subjects.

From the explanations we are receiving, each of the components of these super-subjects, including the religious studies, is however taught by different teachers and come with its own text books. Apart from minor streamlining, the contents remain virtually the same. I wonder if this cosmetic review would translate into any meaningful difference in the work load of pupils and ultimately the performance of students at the various levels of the Basic Education Programme.

For example, Religion and National Values Education now consists of the Christian Religious Studies, Islamic Religious

Saidat Alausa

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ector, Yaba College of Technology, Lagos, Dr. Margaret Ladipo has urged heads of institutions especially rectors of polytechnics to brace up to the challenge of making a meaningful impact on the nation’s drive towards technological growth and rapid industrialisation.

She disclosed at the meeting of the Council of Heads of Polytechnics and

With the picture of a nation riddled with unbridled corruption at the back of their head, and the flamboyant life style of corrupt

officials, it will be very difficult for the children to believe in

their teachers’ sermons in the classroom.

Studies, Social Studies, Civic Education and Security Education. According to the accompanying explanations, Disaster Risk Reduction Education and Peace and Conflict Resolution curricula are to be infused into the Civic Education, Social Studies and Security Education Themes making this subject virtually all encompassing. Analysts have suggested that this course would address the security challenges including ethnic political and religious violence, corruption, kidnapping and other forms of social vices that currently plague the nation.

But already there are altercations among adherents of the two major religions as to how the course would be administered! May I dare to ask what happens to the declared idol worshippers, the occult, agnostics and adherents to other religions in these classes? When the two major religions are having their day in class, would the other kids be playing soccer in the field since every child would be instructed in the religion of their parent? If so, will they be given scores at the end

of the lessons for classes not attended? Are we fully prepared to implement this new programme?

The revised National Policy on Education (NPE) was approved by the National Council on Education (NCE) in June 2013 and implementation commenced in September 2014, barely a year after. How many new teachers do we need nationwide to teach Security Education as well as Disaster Risk Reduction Education and Conflict Resolution; and where are the facilities and manpower required for their training located? Where are the teachers to teach Civics Education and the resolution of ethnic, political and religious violence or fight the battles against corruption? Are they the same teachers that have promoted the menace of examination malpractice to the great new status of extortion, intimidation, blackmail and criminal defacement of students’ examination scripts?

Training of teachers in the use of the new curriculum has been found to be inadequate. Worse still, accessibility to and training on the use of the teachers guide to the revised programme is also grossly inadequate. These were the findings of Moyinoluwa (2015) on the implementation of the revised Basic Education Curriculum in Benue state only last year.

Furthermore, availability of Basic Education Curriculum (27.5%) and Teachers Guide (10%) were found to be inadequate. Finally with such an unwieldy course like Religion and National Values Education, the author also found that the time allocated for teaching and availability of text books were grossly inadequate. All of these are bound to make the teaching of RNVE ineffective and to have no significant effect on the national problems it is meant to address.

With the picture of a nation riddled with unbridled corruption at the back of their head, and the flamboyant life style of corrupt officials brazenly displayed before their eyes, it will be very difficult for the children to believe in their teachers’ sermons in the classroom. If this curriculum must achieve some of its objectives, the ingrained and visible images before these kids would need to change dramatically; corrupt officials in jail and their ill-gotten wealth confiscated!

Rector charges heads of institutions over Lagos holds entrance exam for model colleges technological challenges on Saturday

Colleges of Technology in Nigeria, COHEADS, recently.

According to her this can be achieved by encouraging scholarship among the staff and students and establishing academic fellowships with established institutions and research centers across the globe.

“Similarly, our students

should be encouraged to aspire for academic excellence by adequately rewarding outstanding performance. They can also be creative and innovative through sponsorship of their technical, vocational and entrepreneurial initiatives by corporate bodies.”

Ladipo also told them that as the institutions in

the country confront the challenges of the 21st century, “it is important we are well positioned to provide competency based technical vocational and entrepreneurial education for the production of graduates relevant to the needs of the economy and the technological development of our nation.”

Executive Secretary, Universal Basic Education Commission {UBEC}. Dr. Suleiman Dikko {left}, addressing Internally Displace Student s from the North East region, studying at Federal Government Girls College Kabba, Ikogi State during the Executive Secretary working visit to the School to inspects newly constructed UBEC Federal Government Electronic Library in the school, recently.

Tunbosun Ogundare

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he screening test for admission of primary six pupils into the Lagos State model colleges and upgraded junior secondary schools for the 2016/2017 academic session in the state will hold on Saturday, 14th May, 2016 between 8.00am and 2.00pm.

The state Examinations Board which is in charge of the exercise noted that the test would be conducted in two versions, Computer Based Test (CBT) and Pencil/Paper Test. Candidates who opted for the CBT according to the board in a press release by the public affairs unit of the state ministry of education will take their examinations at the Information Communication and Technology (ICT) Centre in IyanaIpaja office of the board while the rest will have theirs at the 28 designated centres across the state.

A total of 10,200 candi-

dates will sit for the examinations out of which only 54 opted for CBT. Successful candidates will get admission into the six state model colleges and nine upgraded junior secondary schools of choice which have boarding facilities except Vetland Junior Grammar School, Agege which is a day school.

Parents are urged to prepare their children for the examinations by making available all writing materials such as Pencil, Eraser, and Sharpener and ensure they get to their respective one hour before the commencement of the exam.

Adebule

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National Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

Thursday, May 12, 2016

Edited by: Saidat Alausa saidat.alausa@yahoo.com 08027633686

UCJ UNILORIN inducts new members A bdulGaniy Shehu UNILORIN

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n its continual efforts to ensure that students of the University of Ilorin, Kwara State become better journalists, writers, public speakers, the Union of Campus Journalists (UCJ), UNILORIN chapter has once again inducted new members into its fold.

The induction ceremony which is coming up for the second time in the session took place on recently at the Faculty of Law the university.

The President of the UCJ UNILORIN, Olayiwola Waliyullah while welcoming the new members into the Union, informed them that their induction is an uncommon and unusual one.

“Induction ceremony would have been a once in a session programme and the last one could have exhausted that, but for the fact that more students showed genuine interest in joining the union after the last one held, we have to consider this.”

The President in his speech titled: “It is in your hands” intimated the new members that, their efforts count a lot in this new challenge they have taken upon themselves.

While advising the new members of the UCJ, the Sub-dean of the Faculty of Communications and Information Science, and the Editorial Board Chairman of Unilorin Bulletin, Dr. Azeez emphasised the importance of writing as a skill in this century.

In separate interviews with Campus News, the new members expressed hope of becoming better journalists and writers through the Union.

The new members were later taken through the Oath of Membership of the Union, as well as a cursory look into the UCJ constitution, and the code of conduct guiding all members.

It would be recalled that, the UCJ Unilorin inducted about 60 new members in the last semester, and have now added to that figure with the just concluded induction of 52 pen pushers.

The induction ceremony was attended by students from various faculties in the university, the Press Council members of the UCJ, and a host of others.

Corps member donate equipment to FUPRE health centre Eddy Uwoghiren

400L, MED AND SURG, UNIBEN

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2015 Batch A Corp member in Delta state, DanielDidi Uwadia has donated an autoclave machine to the health services department of the Federal University of Petroleum Resources (FUPRE), Effurun, Delta state.

He made the donations last week at an event attended by the Vice-chancellor of the institution, Prof. Akii Ibhadode.

Daniel-Didi said the donation was part of his community development projects and his little way of giving back to the health centre and contributing to improved service delivery at the centre.

Prof. Ibhadode commended the Corp member for the gesture and stated that the centre will put to good use the autoclave machine to better the health of its staff and students.

Daniel-Didi Uwadia, a 2014 graduate of Medical Physiology at the University of Benin did his National Youth Service at the health services department of the university.

Vice-Chancellor, Federal University of Petroleum Resources, Effurun, Prof. Akii Ibhadode (2nd left); Donor and 2015 Batch A Corps member, Daniel Didi with other guests during the donation of an autoclave machine to the health services department of the institution by the Corps member, recently.

NANS aspirant task government on free education Temitope Yakubu ADO EKITI

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Vice-Presidential aspirant of the National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS), Comrade Olalekan Ayeni, has advised government at all levels to make education free.

He said the present crop of leaders enjoyed quality and free education, but said none of them reciprocated the gesture to the generation after them.

Olalekan, a final year student of the Federal Polytechnic, Ado Ekiti made this known in the institution while officially declaring his intention to contest for the post of NANS National Vice President(External Affairs).

He said education was being seen as a privilege which made managements of higher institutions increase fees without considering the plight of the students.

He said public institutions should be affordable

for the poor.

“This set of people that constitute the management boards were children of blacksmiths, hunters, farmers and became what they are today because of the cheap education they enjoyed.

Now, they are big men and have failed to realise that all fingers are not created equal,” he said.

He advised the federal and the state governments to increase funding to education saying that improving education allocation

would bring development.

Olalekan then added that President Muhammadu Buhari should look into the fees paid at Federal Government-owned institutions to make tertiary education affordable to all.

He also appealed to HIM to renovate facilities and equip laboratories to produce excellent graduates.

Olalekan urged other students’ leaders to rise against the problem of rising tuition in the country.

EKSU organises prayer session for late medical doctors Saidat Alausa

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kiti State University, EKSU, Ado Ekiti recently organised a solemn prayer session for one of the medical doctors, Dr. Olufemi Taiwo and others who died recently on their way to the Nigerian Medical Association annual conference in Sokoto State.

Taiwo was a lecturer at the College of Medicine of EKSU. The prayer was to stop untimely deaths in the university and Ekiti State in general.

Leading the prayer, the Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Samuel Bandele noted that the university

and Ekiti State were in mourning mood as a result of the recent death of six medical doctors and a driver in a motor accident while on a trip to Kaduna.

Several prayer points were raised by the Vice-

Chancellor who is also a Senior Pastor of the Deeper Life Bible Church among which were prayers against untimely deaths.

The VC noted that Dr. Taiwo was a rising star in

his profession like the other five other doctors before he met his untimely death.

The university team led by the Vice-Chancellor later attended the burial Service of the late Dr. Olufemi Taiwo at Ayede Ekiti.

L-R: Representative of Executive Secretary, National Board for Technical Education (NBTE), Mr Ekpenyong Edet; Rector Kaduna Polytechnic, Dr. Mohammed Ibrahim and Chairman Local Organising Committee, NBTE/Nipossga, Mr. Shehu Usman, at a news conference on the 18th NBTE/Nigeria Polytechnics Senior Staff Games, in Kaduna, recently.

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Edited by: Saidat Alausa saidat.alausa@yahoo.com 08027633686

AAUA students to resume May 16 ‘Yomi Ayeleso

400L, BUS ADMIN, AAUA

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he management of Adekunle Ajasin University Akungba Akoko has announced May 16th, 2016 as resumption date for students after more than a month of closure following a violent protest that engulfed the institution.

AAUA was closed on April 9th after a protest from the students that led to destruction of properties within and outside the university. Students protested the death of one of them, Ojo Afolabi Daniel, who was hit by a commercial motorcycle operator.

In a statement signed by the acting registrar of the institution, Mr. Sunday Ayeerun, the students are expected back on campus on 16th May for the completion of the 2015/2016 first semester. The statement

Ajibefun

also stated further that the suspended examination will continue on 23rd May. Meanwhile, following outcry from students, the earlier fixed reparation fee of twenty five thousand to be paid by the students before resumption has been reduced to fifteen thousand naira.

The management said the decision is due to consideration of passionate pleas by well meaning Nigerians most especially the leadership of student union government of the institution.

The institution said students are requested to pay the fifteen thousand naira at the required banks via e-transact and present evidence of payment with a copy of sworn affidavit to be of good behaviour at their respective faculties to obtain clearance certificate.

Reacting to the development, the President of the Student Union Government of the university, Mr. Adegbola Odunyemi commended the management for granting the appeals of the students.

He said the student are now pleased and contended with the reparation fee while also assuring the management of the continued cooperation of the students.

NiMSA optimistic of NMA new executive commitment to medical practice Eddy Uwoghiren

400L, MED AND SURG, UNIBEN

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igerian Medical Students Association (NiMSA) has reiterated optimistic that the newly elected president of the Nigerian Medical Association, Prof. Mike Ogirima would bridge the gap between promise and performance.

In a statement by the association and signed by NiMSA national president Musa H Kereng, he commended Prof Ogirima for emerging winner in the keenly contested, free and fair elections.

Prof Ogirima, a professor of Orthaedics nd Ttraumatoloy from the Ahmadu Bello University Teaching Hospital (ABUTH), Zaria was emerged president at an

election that held during the 56th National delegate meeting of NMA in Sokoto state.

While stressing that NiMSA was ready to give him maximum support, he said, “the association extend with respect and utmost regards a hand of friendship and partnership to our fathers and mentors in the medical profession to solidify the bridge between NiMSA and NMA for NiMSA is an association under the mentorship of NMA.” “The immediate past NMA excos led by Dr. Kayode Obembe has achieved inspiring feat in all aspect of NMA, the new executive can now seek to build on the already set foundation and set new pace for the advancement of medical practice in Nigeria,” it stated.

L-R: Administrative Officer, Centre for Entrepreneurial Studies Federal University of Agriculture, Abeokuta, CENT, Mr. Ben Ige; Director, Prof.

Adewale Dipeolu; Representative of SL 2000, Mr. Goodluck Eminah and a staff, SL 2000, Miss Diana Yeboah during the signing of MoU between the two institutions, recently.

Bida Poly lecturer in police net over rape Comfort Akinbola

HND 2 MASS COMM, FEDPOLY, BIDA

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lecturer at the Federal Polytechnic, Bida, Niger State is currently in police net for allegedly raping a 17-year-old ND1 student of the institution.

The lecturer, Mr. Tony Ozineri of the Mechanical Engineering Department and the Servicom Unit of the institution was said to have offered to give the student a ride on Saturday, April 30, 2016 but instead of taking her home the lecturer drove towards Kuchi Woro, a village just after the institution.

According to sources who spoke with Campus News on anonymity he drove her to one primary school building in the village and raped her.

The victim, an ND1 Public Administration student, was

Saidat Alausa

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n a bid to maximize the use of waste products, the Centre for Entrepreneurial Studies (CENTS), of the Federal University of Agriculture, Abeokuta (FUNAAB), Ogun State has organised a training programme in Biogas and Hydroponics, while it has also signed a Memorandum of Understanding with educational developers in the University.

Speaking at the occasion, the Director of CENTS, Prof.

Adewale Dipeolu described waste products as those generated from kitchens, bathrooms, farms, markets and other places, which could be utilised as alternative sources of energy.

“If Nigeria must move forward, its populace must open its eyes and take cognizance of the many unusual entrepreneurial innovations lying around in empowering the people.

He said that unavailability of hydropower was one of the major challenges the

then rushed to the school clinic by a passerby who saw her on the road where she spent four days before she was discharged.

Angered by the incident, students went in search of the lecturer; beat him up before handing him over to the school security which eventually handed him over to the police.

The police however brought him to the school in handcuffs on Monday, May 2, and had met with the rector of the institution, Dr. Abubakar Dzukogi to confirmed the incident.

He was then moved to the State CID headquarters of the Nigeria Police in Minna, Niger State, where sources said he will soon be charged to court immediately after the investigations.

The rector, Dr. Dzukogi confirmed exclusively to Campus News that the unfortunate incident happened. “It is true, it happened and the case is already with the police.”

FUNAAB holds training on Biogas, Signs MoU nation was facing today so as to drive the much-needed development.

The Director said CENTS was looking forward to organising other programmes aimed at empowering the people, as he charged students of the university to endeavour to learn a skill from the centre and avoid channeling their energy into non-profitable and illicit ventures.

As part of future plans

for the centre, he said efforts were being made to reach out to funding agencies to sponsor activities of the centre in order to assist both the students and non-students of the university in becoming entrepreneurs after learning of various skills.

Declaring the programme opened, the Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Olusola Oyewole, who was represented by the Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Development), Prof. Ololade

Enikuomehin, charged the participants to exploit the opportunities offered at the training by making the best use of their time for the training.

Meanwhile, CENTS has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU), on behalf of the university with SL 2000 Ltd, a consortium of educational developers charged by the Federal Government of Nigeria, under the auspices of the Office of the Special Adviser to the President on Niger Delta, Brigadier-General Paul Boroh (retd), to provide vocational training for young people in Niger Delta.

Cross-Section of Participants at a Digital Workshop for Women organised by Women Technological Empowerment Centre, in Lagos, recently.

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National Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

On, not in, the campus & premises

“I

T attracted women of notes such as….” Whether one or 20 women, it is still ‘note’; not notes. The same thing applies to ‘men’ of substance, “Led by a warrant officer, the soldiers stationed at strategic positions in and around the premises.…” (DAILY TIMES, May 9) ‘… on (and around) the premises’; never in the premises “The roots of the dialogue reach back to the 19th and early 20th centuries when leaders of the African diaspora began to advocate for….” ‘Advocate’ cannot accommodate ‘for’.

“It was the most sensible reaction I have read from any Nigerian media on the matter so far.” Singular: medium; plural: media—‘any’ takes either singular or plural, but not in this case.

“To prove that he had not quite forgotten all the stuff that he crammed from such columns in those days, he went on to recite off-head some scientific definitions….” (DAILY TIMES, May 6) We recite off-hand. To do otherwise will be fatal!

“Pupils and their parents will continue to cut corners, in spite of such measures, for as long as the dearth of facilities in our educational institutions remain a permanent feature of our schools.” (SATURDAY CHAMPION, May 7) Simple concord: the dearth…remains a permanent feature of our schools.

“Watching these kids sing and play together, (sic) evoke the thought that most adults, if not all, should hold their heads in shame.” (DAILY TIMES, May 5) Watching these kids…evokes. ”The latest decision has triggered a lot of suspicious (sic).”

(VANGUARD, May 9) I hope my Kirikiri Canal colleagues will not trigger off any intellectual suspicion.

“Prophet Nathan’s famous warning came after the deed has been done.” (Source: as above) Perfect past…. After the deed had been done “As the fall-outs of our economic direction accumulate….”

(DAILY TIMES, May 3) ‘Fallout’ (no hyphen) is uncountable.

“However, the cost of damages to telcos’ (informal word) installations could not be ascertained.” ‘Damage’ is non-count except in legal reparation.

‘As president, Buhari will have to combat the unemployment problem by coming down hard on immediate-past governors.” I doubt if there is any context where ‘unemployment’

will not be a problem. Therefore, Buhari will…combat unemployment by.… Conversely, we can have employment problem.

Grammar is not always logical!

“But there are some sticking points.” Sticky points, please.

“This, he said, will encourage other companies to do same.“ I encourage the inclusion of ‘the’ before ‘same’. It shows scholarship.

“Home-based players poise for action” I am sure they poised for action.

“Change in the form of development programs tend to disturb the existing system of social stratification in any given society or locality.” The verb phrase determinant in this extract is ‘change’—not ‘programs’—which calls for ‘tends’.

“This fledging establishment.…” Either: fledgling; never ‘fledging’.

“The depletion of the ozone layer otherwise known as the greenhouse effect has further added to the spate of natural disaster worldwide.” Get it right: spate of natural disasters.

“While the exchange of banters went on between him and his friend….” ‘Banter’ is non-count.

The next three errors are from SUNDAY TRIBUNE of May 8: “The fear, it was learnt (learned), is that demonstrators may break into these amoury and utilize the weapons.” Of course, a mob that accesses an armoury will use the arms. Therefore, the subordinate conjunction (utilise the weapons) is irrelevant.

The plural of ‘armoury’ is armouries.

“The main plank of the unanimity which came from grassroot Nigerians….” Linguistic agreement: grassroots (always) Nigerians “Demanding that equity and justice be done in the matter, Oba Bajowa added that the people had been showing restrain because….” Noun: restraint; verb: restrain. What applies here is noun.

“Most of the questions put to the governor bordered around…” (NTA Network News, May 5) Without any question: border on or upon (not around).

“But this particular money bag (sic) was not impressed and decided to remind us that we were poor.” (Source: as above) A wealthy or an avaricious person is known as a moneybags. A

Olashore International School receives Osun State award Saidat Alausa

O

lashore International School, Iloko-Ijesha, Osun

State has received the Osun State award for Outstanding Secondary School of “The Year 2016.”

This was awarded to the school recently by the Excel-

lent Media South-West Nigeria Excellence Award at Osun state.

Annually organised by a group of media in Osun State to include, Osun State

Gambia’s Minister of Youth and Sports, Mr Alieu Jammeh (left)in a hand shake with the Director-General of the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC), Brig.-Gen. Sule Kazaure, during his visit to the NYSC Headquarters in Abuja.

moneybag refers to a bag of money.

“Chief Ige was conspicuously absent….” (Source: as above) This is quite an old line. If you belong to the transformative school, delete ‘conspicuously’.

“By 8.30 p.m. the venues had been filled with invited guests and pressmen….” This sounds preposterous. A venue is filled by guests, but filled with inanimate objects “And, of course a maximum of 60 per cent which implies that either of the two parties….” (BUSINESSDAY, May 9) ‘Either’ indicates two elements. Therefore, ‘two’ is redundant here.

‘It is not enough for superiors to defend their subordinates set out on the field or believe everything or allegations levied against other citizens….” We level—not levy – allegations against.…

“Source close to the presidency also said that many delegates lobbied for Board appointments.” Either way: ‘a source close’ or ‘sources close…’ If singular there must be a determinant (‘a’ or ‘the’) depending on context.

“In Akwa Ibom, they recommended the creation of Atlantic State comprising of Oron…” I recommend the deletion of the second ‘of in the extract.

“Crude oil prices soar higher” Would it have been lower?

‘Soar higher’ is obtuse!

“Financial allocation for waterways and airways far exceed that of the railways.” The verb determinant in this instance is ‘allocation’; not ‘waterways’ and ‘airways’.

Realignment of curves to improve train speeds have not been undertaken as….” Realignment…has’; not have.

“Two top coaches…were the first casualities,” Even the pronunciation is indicative of the correct word: casualties.

“This pledge, like Zik’s, wreaks of capitalist woolliness and self- aggrandizement.” I pledge that the right word here is ‘reeks’; not ‘wreaks’.

“The capacity of women to raise funds for recognition have been further….” The capacity…has.

“The human greed has now reached its highest peak.” This amounts to tormenting functional items. ‘Peak’ abhors any intensification.

Broadcasting Corporation (OSBC), Oshogbo, NTA Oshogbo, UniQ FM illesa, Gold FM illesa, Orisun FM Ile-Ife, and NTA Ile-Ife, the school was recognised for its impact and contributions towards improving the standard of education in the state.

Olashore International School is a learning community committed to academic excellence, nurturing each child to their full potential in a safe and serene environment, developing leaders for the dynamic global society in the 21st century.

Located on 60 acres of land, Olashore International School is a coeducational school which offers high quality education in a wide range of subjects at Junior Secondary and Senior Secondary along with a University Foundation Programme.

Over the past 20 years, the school has succeeded in developing a cluster of world class services around the school including a first class hotel, a golf course and leadership training centre that all combine to give the school a unique identity.

MOUA gets new VC

T

he Governing Council of the Michael Okpara University of Agriculture (MOUA), Umudike, Abia State has approved the appointment of Prof.

Francis Ogbonnaya th Otunta, as the 5th ViceChancellor of the University.

He succeeded Professor Hillary Edoga, whose five year tenure expired, with effect from March, 2016.

A Professor of Mathematics from the University of Benin (UNIBEN), Edo State was until his new appointment former Chairman of UNIBEN Endowment and Development Fund; Research and Publications; Head of Department, Mathematics; Vice- Chairman,

Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU) and Rector, Akanu Ibiam Federal Polytechnic, Uwana, Afikpo, Ebonyi State, between 2006- 2014.

Born on 29 April, 1958, in Afikpo, Afikpo North Local Government Area of Ebonyi State, the Vice-Chancellor started his teaching career as a graduate at Assistant in UNIBEN on 1 August, 1983 and rose through the ranks to become a Professor on 1st October, 2003.

Otunta

Business Thursday, May 12, 2016

Corporate CEOs doubt efficacy of strategies –PwC 32

Bridging telcos’ revenue gap through restrictions on internet calls 35

National Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

NCC opens more spectrums to drive internet penetration 36

CBN to sanction banks over late response to cardholders’ complaints Niyi Jacobs

T

“However, such cameras should not be able to record the key strokes of customers using the ATM. Where a surveillance camera is used, it should be kept secret to avoid illegal removal or damage or compromise.

“Where the user of an ATM blocks his image for camera capture, the ATM shall be capable of aborting the transaction” the guideline stipulated.

The apex bank in the guideline noted that sanctions, in the form of monetary penalties / or suspension

of the acquiring/processing service (s) or both, would be imposed on erring institutions for failure to comply with any of the provisions of this Guidelines.

Also as part of security measures, the guideline stipulated that ATMs be cited in locations and in a manner that guarantees safety and security of users and confidentiality of their transactions.

The guideline on Operation of Electronic Payment Channels also covers the use of point of sale terminals, mobile PoS and web trans-

actions. The CBN also is issued guidelines on transaction switching in the country.

Meanwhile, the apex bank’s Director, Consumer Protection Department (CPD), Hadija, A. Dutse, while speaking to journalists at the weekend said that sanctions , in the form of monetary penalties or suspension of the acquiring/processing service (s) or both, would be imposed on erring institutions for failure to comply with any of the provisions.

he Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) has ordered all Deposit Money banks (DMBs) to treat all cardholders’ complaints within three days or face sanctions.

The order, which was contained in the Guidelines on Operation of Electronic Payment Channels in Nigeria, requires banks to treat all cardholders’ complaints within four days, that is transaction date plus three days from the date of the receipt of the complaint This is even as it also charged acquirers of Electronic Payment Channels in Nigeria to respond to issuer’s request within two days.

The apex bank stated that that where records were falsified by any party, appropriate sanctions shall be applied.

Similarly, the circular also stated that all ATMs must be fitted with security cameras which will be hidden such that it would not be tampered with.

“Every ATM shall have cameras, which shall view and record all persons using the machines and every activity at the ATM, including but not limited to: card insertion, transaction selection, cash L-R: Acting Managing Director, Bank of Industry (BOI) Waheed Olagunju; Kastina State Governor Aminu Masari; Executive Director (Corporate Services) BOI, Mr. Tobin Jonathan and Divisional Head of SME (North) BOI, withdrawal, card taking, etc.

Mr. Shekarau Omar, at the commissioning of Bank of Industry office, in Katsina State yesterday.

Aircraft movements in Nigerian airspace surge 6.9% in Q4, 2015 –NBS Olusegun Koiki

T

he total number of aircraft movement either arriving or departing the Nigerian airports increased to 61,692, representing 6.9 per cent in the fourth quarter of 2015.

This is a contrast when compared to the third quarter of 2015, which had 57,704 of aircraft movement. The third quarter aircraft movement however decreased by 1.1 per cent in relative to second quarter of the same year under review.

These data were released recently by the National Bureau of Statistics, NBS. According to the bureau, the increase in aircraft movement in the fourth quarter was as a result of the festive period; Christmas and New

Year celebrations in that period.

However, NBS, hinted that the statistics of both third and fourth quarter of 2015 represented a notable decline relative to the same quarters of the previous year.

The bureau in its statistics emphasised that aircraft movement in the third quarter of 2015 reduced by 10.3 per cent when compared with third quarter of 2014 while the quarter four 2015 represented 13.6 per cent reduction in the same period of 2014.

The bureau added, “These declines were both larger than the corresponding year-on-year declines in passenger numbers, indicating that passengers per flight increased over this period.

In contrast with the number of passengers, the year-on-year fall in

the number of domestic flights was larger than the fall in the number of international flights.

“In the third and fourth quarters of 2015, there were 11.3 per cent and 14.3 per cent fewer domestic flights than in the same quarter of 2014 respectively, which resulted in a total of 46,157 and 50,686 flights in the third and fourth quarter.”

NBS added that the year-onyear declines in the number of international flights were 3.3 per cent and 10.5 per cent in the third and fourth quarter of 2015 respectively, which resulted in a total of 11,547 international flights in third quarter of 2015 and 11,006 in the fourth.

Besides, the bureau explained that there was a large quarterly

31

increase in domestic flights in the fourth quarter of 2015 (of 9.8 per cent) international flights saw a decline of 541 flights, or 4.7 per cent, reversing the increase of 344 flights (3.1 per cent) recorded in the third quarter.

The difference between the number of domestic and international aircraft to pass through Nigeria airports tended to be smaller than the difference between the number of domestic and international passengers, reflecting the fact that international aircraft tended to be larger, and therefore carried more passengers.

Also, the shares of domestic flights accounted for by each airport were similar to the shares of passengers accounted for by each airport.

AIRLINES’ FLIGHT SCHEDULES Med-View Airline Lagos- Abuja (Mon-Fri): 07.00, 08.50, 12.00, 16.30. Abuja- Lagos (Mon-Fri): 09.00, 14.00, 15.00, 18.30. Lagos-Yola (Mon-Fri): 8.50am. Yola-Lagos (Mon-Fri): 13.00. Lagos- PHC (Mon-Fri): 17.00. PHC-Lagos: 19.00. Abuja-Yola: 11.00. Yola-Abuja: 13.00.

Lagos-Abuja (Sat): 08.00, 08.50.

Abuja-Lagos (Sat): 10.00, 15.00.

Lagos-PHC (Sat): 17.00. PHC-Lagos (Sat): 19.00. Lagos-Yola (Sat): 08.50. Yola-Lagos (Sat): 13.00

Dana Air Abuja-Lagos 9am, 1pm, 5.28pm daily Lagos-Abuja 7am, 11am, 1.23pm,3.30pm daily Lagos-PH: 7.20AM, Ph-Abuja9.54am, Abuja-ph: 3.30pm and Ph-Lagos: 5.28pm daily Lagos-Uyo: 9.20am, Uyo-Abuja: 11.07am, Abuja-Uyo 1.05pm, Uyo-Lagos: 3pm daily Weekends Lagos-Abuja: 7.02am, 9am, 3.30pm Abuja-Lagos: 9am, 2.20pm and 5.28pm Lagos -Phc: 11.07am Phc-Lagos: 1.05pm Phc-Abuja: 12.51pm Abuja-Phc: 10.50am Lagos-Uyo: 9.18am Uyo-LOS -3.03pm Uyo-Abuja: 11.07am Abuja-Uyo: 1.05pm

Aero Contractors Lag-Abj: 06.50, 13.30, 16.30, 19.45 (Mon-Fri/Sat/Sun), 12.30 (Sun) 16.45 (Sat) Abj-Los: 07.30, 13.00, 19.00 (Mon-Fri/Sat, 10.30, 14.30, 19.30 (Sun, 18.30 Sat) Lag-Benin: 07.45, 11.00, 15.30 (Mon-Fri/Sat/ Sun) 12.30 (Sun 15.30 (Sat) Ben-Lag: 09.15, 12.30, 17.00 (Mon-Fri/Sat/Sun) 17.00 (Sat) 14.00 (Sun)Lag-Owe: 7.45am, 2pm daily

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Business News

Thursday, May 12, 2016

National Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

Corporate CEOs doubt efficacy of strategies –PwC Tola Akinmutimi

A

s major corporations struggle with developing a business strategy that works, 50 percent of business leaders don’t believe they have a winning strategy to begin with and almost all report missing major opportunities in the market.

A recent research conducted by a senior executives of Strategy, PwC’s Strategy Consulting indicated that about two-thirds of business executives don’t support the way they create value in the market.

This is even as 80 per cent of them attested to the fact that their overall strategy was not well understood – even within their own companies.

The research indicated the problems were not caused by external forces but largely represented the outcome of the way most companies were being managed.

Commenting on the findings, Jorge Camarate, Strategy& Partner, explained that globally and across the African continent “we are seeing companies battle with how to develop strategies that keep them competitive in an increasingly complex global marketplace.

All too often companies don’t think about strategy and execution to-

gether.

“We have a number of business leaders who understand this problem, but very few who know how to overcome this”, he added.

The report further indicated that few companies, referred to as ‘coherent’ companies, were able to successfully close the gap between their strategy and their execution by applying the unique capabilities that distinguish them from their peers.

According to the research and consulting outfit, coherent companies usually have the ability to align their value proposition with their distinctive capabilities and their portfolio of products and services. These elements shape a company’s identity, culture and approach to managing resources.

PwC noted further that firms formulate a strategy by looking for growth opportunities in the market, adding however that attempts to build businesses in Africa frequently result in value destruction.

Citing a recent study conducted

by Strategy& on Mergers and Acquisitions, M & As, activity in Africa, the report showed that of the business expansions into Africa, as many as 66 per cent resulted in negative shareholder returns.

The study also indicated that deals with no capability alignment,

EU blocks Three’s takeover of O2

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he European Commission has blocked Telefonica’s sale of O2 to CK Hutchison, the owner of Three.

The planned deal was worth £10.3bn, and would have left the UK with just three major mobile phone network operators.

But Europe’s competition commissioner, Margrethe Vestager, said she had strong concerns about the takeover, ruling that it would reduce customer choice and raise prices..

CK Hutchison said it was considering a legal challenge to the decision.

“The goal of EU merger control is to ensure that tie-ups do not weaken competition at the expense of consumers and businesses,” said Ms Vestager.

“We want the mobile telecoms sector to be competitive, so that consumers can enjoy innovative mobile services at fair prices and high network quality.”

The decision ruled that concessions offered by Hong-Kong based Hutchison - including a five year price freeze and billions of pounds in investments “were not sufficient to prevent” the hampering of innovation and network infrastructure development.

CK Hutchison responded to the decision, saying the acquisi-

tion of O2 from Spain’s Telefonica would bring “major benefits to the UK not only by unlocking £10bn of private sector investment in the UK’s digital infrastructure but also by addressing the country’s coverage issues, enhancing network capacity, speeds and price competition for consumers”.

(Source – www.bbc.com)

representing 32 per cent of the total number, significantly underperformed compared to those that a have a clear capability alignment.

“The results of the study suggest that there is a need for a new growth strategy that builds on and enhances companies’

existing capabilities. This will create more shareholder value than purely seeking out markets based on their intrinsic attractiveness.

“It is critical that companies expanding into Africa should focus on their own capabilities.

President, Abuja Chamber of Commerce and Industry, Mr Tony Ejinkeonye (L), welcoming the Director Foreign Department Czech Chamber of Commerce, Mr Jiri Hansi during the Czech Republic Trade Mission Business delegation visit to Nigeria in Abuja yesterday. PHOTO:NAN

FBNInsurance opens new offices to deepen insurance

…as CEO bags Risk Management Institute’s fellowship ZAKA KHALIQ

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BNInsurance Limited said it is set to deepen insurance penetration in the country through its recently established four retail offices in Umuahia, Eket, Orlu and Abraka in the South-South and South-East parts of Nigeria.

A statement from the insurance firm and made available to National Mirror yesterday, noted that this move was to allow more Nigerians

subscribe to insurance products and services, thus increasing insurance adoption.

It said the nation is blessed with huge population, but that the low insurance acceptance did not justify the 160 million lives living in the country, promising to use these new platforms to boost acceptance of insurance.

“Insurance penetration in Nigeria is still very low despite the rapid growth of the industry. For us at FBNInsurance, we are com-

2016 Budget: Experts hinge performance on strict implementation NIYI Jacobs

S

ome economic experts in the country have commended President Mohammadu Buhari for finally signing the 2016 Appropriation Bill, giving way for full implementation of the budget as well as expressed concern over the implement of the budget .

While, the signing took place at the presidential Villa, in Abuja on Friday, many have expressed doubts over some aspects of the document, especially the ability of the government to generate the projected fund to finance the budget.

In his reaction, the Chief Executive Officer, SOFUNIX Investment and Communications Limited, Mr. Sola Oni, in

They need to align their efforts in order to successfully execute their strategy with what they are best at. One of the key success factors is that it takes unconventional leadership to foster the behavior required of coherent companies.

a mail sent to National Mirror said “The key issue is how we finance the budget so that it does not end up as a mere political campaign gimmick?”

Oni noted that the key issue to be worry about is how to finance the budget, adding that if the budget is not well financed it may result into a waste of time.

Meanwhile Mr. Emeka Okolo and Higo Aigboje, both economic analysts, however, looked at the 2016 budget from the area of implementation.

In their separate reactions, they said the budget looked good on paper, but if past experiences are anything to go by, its implementation may just be the problem.

Okolo, who is Managing Director, Molten Trust Limited

said: “What I am concerned is that the budget should be implemented; we are no longer interested in discourse everyday again; we want implementation of the budget. On paper, it is good, but implementation is always the issue.

“I know that some will say that the main issue is that borrowing is too much, borrowing is not the issue. The main issue is to use the borrowing for what it is meant for, that is the bottom-line. If they can implement it faithfully, that is okay”.

Aigboje, Managing Director, Capital Bancorp Plc, said that “the 2016 budget is very positive if it is faithfully implemented and can bring about economic prosperity. Nigeria’s problem is not about budgets, but about the implementation process”.

mitted to availing every Nigerian of our unique products wherever they are. In our five-year existence, we have always leveraged on the expansive retail network of First Bank Nigeria.

“This strategy has worked for us and that is why we have opened FBNInsurance retail offices inside FirstBank branches on Uzuakoli Rd., Umuahia; Nkwere Rd., Orlu; Grace Bill Rd., Eket; and Police Station Rd., Abraka. “Now, the good people of Umuahia, Orlu, Eket and Abraka can access qualitative FBNInsurance products and services right in their neighbourhood”, the company stated.

Meanwhile, the company’s Managing Director, Mr. Val Ojumah, was at the weekend inducted Fellow of the Risk Managers Society of Nigeria (RIMSON).

Ojumah was inducted in recognition of his exploits in risk management and commitment to the advancement of risk awareness in Nigeria. He thanked the executives of RIMSON for the honour and promised to do more to uplift the ideals of the society.

“As a consummate financial services professional, this is a call to a higher service for me. Risk Management remains key in the business of insurance and as one involved in the day-to-day running of a major player in Nigeria’s insurance industry, FBNInsurance Limited, I cannot emphasize this enough..”

National Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

Global Business

Thursday, May 12, 2016

Electric cars to rival Tesla’s Powerwall in Nissan deal

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issan announced a partnership with Enel SpA on Tuesday in London that will unite Japan’s second-biggest carmaker with Italy’s biggest utility.

Together they’ll enable drivers of Nissan Leaf battery-powered cars and e-NV200 electric vans to sell excess energy during periods of peak demand -- effectively turning automobiles into mobile power sources competing with the likes of Tesla Motors Inc.’s Powerwall battery.

“We believe electric vehicles can become a mobile power unit,” Nissan’s chairman for EuropePaul Willcox said. “Customers can save money on their energy bills.”

The alliance could give consumers another reason to consider a switch to electric vehicles. While countries like China and Germany offer subsidies to buy batterypowered cars, consumer anxiety over their limited range and higher prices have muted adoption. Now, in the wake of Volkswagen AG’s emissions-cheating scandal and with automakers forced by regulators to cut pollution, Nissan and Enel are betting that sentiment will begin turning in favor of electric cars.

Nissan and Enel will trial their program by identifying 100 drivers of electric vans and cars in the U.K., who will be provided with Enel’s “vehicle-to-grid” software, which allows the electricity to be traded through National Grid Plc. If the program

Nissan

is a success, it will be rolled out on a commercial basis, said Ernesto Ciorra, head of innovation and sustainability for Enel, in an interview.

“We believe electric vehicles can become a mobile power unit”- Nissan’s Dubbed “xStorage,” the energy storage unit will be available in October and was developed by Nissan and Eaton Corp., a Cleveland-based company that has also entered the partnership. The system will be priced starting at 4,000 euros ($4,556).

The “biggest challenge we’ve faced” when launching electric vehicles was “anxiety,” Nissan’s Willcox said at the event while adding “we still have an education job to do.”

To that end, government regulators need to continue playing a role by encouraging the industry and consumers to move away from

diesel- and gas-driven cars, according to Willcox, who said he believes rules will become more stringent and that some costs will be borne by consumers. There should be higher taxes on vehicles emitting higher levels of carbon dioxide, he told Bloomberg in an interview.

“Any responsible person would say that’s the best way to go,” Willcox said.

Once governments do put in place regulations to cut pollution from the transport sector, a quarter of the world’s cars will be an electric by 2040 according to forecasts Bloomberg New Energy Finance.

The absence of rules until now has undercut sales. Less than 1 percent of vehicles on the road in Europe are powered with electric motors, according to Automotive Industry Data Ltd.

Disney shares stumble as expectations outpace reality

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or Walt Disney’s Peter Pan, flying was “all a matter of faith and trust.” Investors in Walt Disney Co showed a lack of both in the company’s stock on Wednesday.

Disney’s shares fell 4.5 per cent to $101.76 in morning trading and were the biggest drag on the Dow Jones industrial average after the entertainment conglomerate’s quarterly earnings and revenue fell short of sky-high estimates.

As expected, Disney did get a boost from the success of the animated hit film “Zootopia” and “Star Wars: The Force Awakens”.

But its cable business continued to struggle, theme park attendance was

Product of Disney

weaker than expected and product sales fell, leading to first miss on earnings per share in 19 quarters.

“We believe the nature of Disney’s franchises like Star Wars has resulted in expectations running ahead of reality,” Barclays analyst Kannan Venkateshwar wrote in a note to clients.

Venkateshwar rates Disney “underweight” on valuation, with a price target of $89.

Disney has a forward price-earnings ratio of 17.3, compared with an average 14.4 for its peers.

Thomson Reuters StarMine’s intrinsic valuation model, which takes into account analysts’ EPS forecasts, indicates Disney’s stock should be

trading at $98.12 - about $4 below where it was trading on Wednesday.

“We are reluctant to pay a significant premium to the group average (and market) for Disney given that historical and projected growth rates have not generally been superior to peers,” wrote Cowen & Co analyst Doug Creutz, who maintained a target of $88 on Disney’s shares.

RBC Capital analyst Steven Cahall, who has a price target of $103 on Disney, was also cautious. “...We’re concerned that it’s at peak earnings with “The Force Awakens” potentially setting an impossible comparable, and domestic parks running low on headroom with record occupancy, especially if U.S. economic weakness sets in,” he wrote.

For Goldman Sachs, troubles in Disney’s cable business, which includes sports network ESPN, “underscores our bear concern about rising expectations.” Goldman analysts, led by Drew Borst, cut their price target to $109 from $111 - the only cut among brokerages tracked by Thomson Reuters.

Disney’s disappointing results had little effect on shares of other media companies, such as Viacom Inc, Time Warner Inc and Twenty-First Century Fox Inc. And some analysts saw the stock’s drop as a chance to buy.

33

Security bug alerts U.S. government

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urope’s biggest software company, SAP (SAPG.DE), is the subject of a U.S. security alert over a vulnerability the firm disabled six years ago that can still give outside attackers remote control over older SAP systems if the software is not properly patched.

SAP fixed the issue, but left the decision over whether to switch off an easy access setting up to its customers, who may sometimes place a higher priority on keeping their businesscritical SAP systems running than on applying security updates.

The U.S. Department of Homeland Security’s Computer Emergency Response Team (US-CERT) issued an alert to the security industry on Wednesday advising SAP customers what they need to do to plug the holes.

It is one of only three such security warnings the agency has issued so far this year.

Details are here.

Dozens of companies have been exposed to these security gaps in recent years, and a far larger number of SAP customers remain vulnerable, said Onapsis, a firm that specializes in securing business applications from SAP and rival Oracle ORCL.O. “This is not a new vulnerability,” Mariano Nunez, chief executive of Onapsis, which works with SAP to plug security holes, told Reuters in advance of the U.S. security alert. “Still,

Obama

most SAP customers are unaware that this is going on.”

SAP, whose software acts as the corporate plumbing for many multinationals and which claims 87 percent of the top 2000 global companies as customers, disclosed the vulnerability in 2010 and has offered software patches to fix the flaw.

SAP issued a statement that the vulnerable feature was fixed when the company introduced the software update six years ago. “All SAP applications released since then are free of this vulnerability,” the company said in an emailed statement.

However, it acknowledged that these changes were known to break -- or disable -- customized software developments that many customers had implemented using older versions of SAP’s programming language.

UK industry in recession, third time in eight years

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t is the third time UK industry has been in recession in eight years.

Although industrial production rose 0.3 per cent from February to March, it fell 0.4 per cent both in the first three months of 2016 and in the last three of 2015.

Compared with a year ago, manufacturing production in the first quarter fell 1.9 per cent, the biggest fall since 2013.

The biggest fall in output came from the basic iron and steel sector which saw production drop in March by 37.3 per cent compared with a year earlier.

However, the oil and gas industries saw sharp gains, increasing production 17 per cent in February, and 10.9 per cent in

Cameron

March from the same months a year earlier.

Manufacturing and construction is proving to be a drag on the whole economy, helping slow UK economic growth from 0.6 per cent in the last three months of 2015 to 0.4 per cent between January and March, according to the ONS. Earlier this month a survey

by Markit/CIPS also showed manufacturing contracting.

Chris Williamson, chief economist at Markit said: “The goodsproducing sector therefore looks to be on course to act as a drag on the economy again in the second quarter, contributing to a slowing in economic growth to near-stagnation.

“Growth could be even weaker if the surveys disappoint in coming month, which seems probable given the intensifying uncertainty over the outcome of the EU referendum.”

Despite this, economist Ruth Miller from Capital Economics is optimistic for the rest of the year.

She said: “We still expect things to look up as the year progresses. Sterling’s recent depreciation and our expectations that global growth will pick up slightly in 2016 should allow the sector to return to modest growth later this year.”

Capital Market

34

National Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

Thursday, May 12, 2016

Stock exchange daily equities summary DAILY STOCK MARKET REPORT Equities as at May 11, 2016 1st Tier Securities

1st Tier Securities Sector

Prices for SecuritiesCompany Traded asname of 11/05/2016

Printed 11/05/2016 14:33:01.001

PRICES FOR PREMIUM BOARD SECURITIES

No Of Deals

Quotation(N)

Quantity Traded

Value of Shares(N)

1

BANKING ZENITH INTERNATIONAL BANK PLC

MARKET CAP(Nm)

PRICE

%CHANGE

433,271.61

13.80

0.07

TRADES

BANKING S/N

OTHER FINANCIAL INSTITUTIONS

12,541,065 12,541,065

PRICE

%CHANGE

TRADES

VOLUME

123,838.76

3.45

1.47

234

10,152,978

OTHER FINANCIAL INSTITUTIONS

234

10,152,978

FINANCIAL SERVICES

531

22,694,043

FBN HOLDINGS PLC

S/N

VOLUME

297 297

MARKET CAP(Nm)

2

3

BUILDING MATERIALS DANGOTE CEMENT PLC

MARKET CAP(Nm)

PRICE

%CHANGE

TRADES

VOLUME

2,769,423.26

162.52

-0.80

16

60,838

16

60,838

BUILDING MATERIALS INDUSTRIAL GOODS PREMIUM BOARD TOTALS PRICES FOR MAIN BOARD SECURITIES

5

CROP PRODUCTION OKOMU OIL PALM PLC.

6

PRESCO PLC FISHING/HUNTING/TRAPPING

16

60,838

547

22,754,881

8

LIVESTOCK/ANIMAL SPECIALTIES LIVESTOCK FEEDS PLC.

TELECOMMUNICATIONS SERVICES

BUILDING MATERIALS

PRICE

%CHANGE

TRADES

VOLUME

27,672.93

29.01

-

12

49,751

35,700.00

35.70

-

15 27

139,052

MARKET CAP(Nm)

PRICE

%CHANGE

TRADES

VOLUME

MARKET CAP(Nm)

PRICE

%CHANGE

TRADES

VOLUME

1,680.00

0.84

5.00

23

2,181,585

11 14 6

16,7

8,847.01

7.04

4.92

29

417,0

DN MEYER PLC.

227.50

0.70

-

1

132

PAINTS AND COATINGS MANUFACTURES PLC

784.99

0.99

4.21

2

102,2

133

PORTLAND PAINTS & PRODUCTS NIGERIA PLC

752.00

1.88

-4.57

30

1,359,2

153

2,298,6

MARKET CAP(Nm)

PRICE

%CHANGE

TRADES

1,365.02

1.55

-1.90

8

MARKET CAP(Nm)

PRICE

%CHANGE

TRADES

127

CEMENT CO. OF NORTH.NIG. PLC

128

S/N

ELECTRONIC AND ELECTRICAL PRODUCTS

136

CUTIX PLC. PACKAGING/CONTAINERS

S/N

TOOLS AND MACHINERY

TRANSNATIONAL CORPORATION OF NIGERIA PLC U A C N PLC.

1.00

2.04

11

576,713

-5.00

8

297,067

45,535.89

1.12

3.70

35,785.70

18.63

-

157

356,186

231

13,186,969

CONGLOMERATES

231

13,186,969

S/N S/N S/N S/N

BUILDING CONSTRUCTION

S/N

BUILDING STRUCTURE/COMPLETION/OTHER

PRICE

%CHANGE

TRADES 0

0

MARKET CAP(Nm)

PRICE

%CHANGE

TRADES

VOLUME

0

0

MARKET CAP(Nm)

PRICE

%CHANGE

TRADES

VOLUME

56,760.00

43.00

-

6

13,659

6

13,659

MARKET CAP(Nm)

PRICE

%CHANGE

TRADES

VOLUME

7,046.87

4.10

-

10

87,000

10

87,000

MARKET CAP(Nm)

PRICE

%CHANGE

TRADES

VOLUME

26,682.70

10.00

-

1

50

BUILDING STRUCTURE/COMPLETION/OTHER S/N

INFRASTRUCTURE/HEAVY CONSTRUCTION

18

JULIUS BERGER NIG. PLC.

INFRASTRUCTURE/HEAVY CONSTRUCTION S/N

REAL ESTATE DEVELOPMENT

20

UACN PROPERTY DEVELOPMENT CO. LIMITED

REAL ESTATE DEVELOPMENT S/N

REAL ESTATE INVESTMENT TRUSTS (REITS)

23

UPDC REAL ESTATE INVESTMENT TRUST

REAL ESTATE INVESTMENT TRUSTS (REITS) CONSTRUCTION/REAL ESTATE

VOLUME

1

50

17

100,709

CONSUMER GOODS S/N

AUTOMOBILES/AUTO PARTS

MARKET CAP(Nm)

PRICE

%CHANGE

TRADES 0

0

MARKET CAP(Nm)

PRICE

%CHANGE

TRADES

VOLUME

23,097.01

2.95

4.98

10

119,734

142,758.20

94.80

-0.20

34

539,500

65,884.99

20.00

-

41

243,354

935,633.90

118.00

0.42

AUTOMOBILES/AUTO PARTS S/N

BEVERAGES--BREWERS/DISTILLERS

25

CHAMPION BREW. PLC.

27

GUINNESS NIG PLC

28

INTERNATIONAL BREWERIES PLC.

30

NIGERIAN BREW. PLC.

BEVERAGES--BREWERS/DISTILLERS S/N

BEVERAGES--NON-ALCOHOLIC

32

7-UP BOTTLING COMP. PLC.

VOLUME

104

4,132,349

189

5,034,937

MARKET CAP(Nm)

PRICE

%CHANGE

TRADES

VOLUME

92,885.60

145.00

-

6

3,875

6

3,875

BEVERAGES--NON-ALCOHOLIC S/N

FOOD PRODUCTS

MARKET CAP(Nm)

PRICE

%CHANGE

TRADES

VOLUME

33

DANGOTE SUGAR REFINERY PLC

69,480.00

5.79

-1.03

18

195,931

34

FLOUR MILLS NIG. PLC.

62,351.88

23.76

-4.92

123

1,176,552

35

HONEYWELL FLOUR MILL PLC

12,609.01

1.59

-3.05

59

1,935,441

37

N NIG. FLOUR MILLS PLC.

1,185.03

6.65

-

1

4,000

38

NASCON ALLIED INDUSTRIES PLC

22,758.68

8.59

1.42

49

4,216,092

40

TIGER BRANDED CONSUMER GOODS PLC

25,250.00

5.05

10.02

42

UNION DICON SALT PLC.

3,523.34

12.89

4.97

FOOD PRODUCTS S/N

FOOD PRODUCTS--DIVERSIFIED

43

CADBURY NIGERIA PLC.

44

NESTLE NIGERIA PLC.

200

S/N

HOUSEHOLD DURABLES

152,993 12,892,804

MARKET CAP(Nm)

PRICE

%CHANGE

TRADES

VOLUME

29,375.08

15.64

-

17

51,586

531,872.35

671.00

-

45

24,240

62

75,826

MARKET CAP(Nm)

PRICE

%CHANGE

TRADES

VOLUME

0

0

TRADES

VOLUME

HOUSEHOLD DURABLES S/N

PERSONAL/HOUSEHOLD PRODUCTS

48

P Z CUSSONS NIGERIA PLC.

49

UNILEVER NIGERIA PLC.

5,211,795

8 458

FOOD PRODUCTS--DIVERSIFIED

MARKET CAP(Nm)

PRICE

%CHANGE

83,380.02

21.00

-0.24

28

244,132

140,814.29

37.22

-0.24

63

537,052

91

781,184

806

18,788,626

PERSONAL/HOUSEHOLD PRODUCTS CONSUMER GOODS FINANCIAL SERVICES S/N

BANKING

MARKET CAP(Nm)

PRICE

%CHANGE

TRADES

VOLUME

50

ACCESS BANK PLC.

124,679.56

4.31

0.23

119

5,299,876

51

DIAMOND BANK PLC

39,141.06

1.69

4.97

95

5,178,461

52

ECOBANK TRANSNATIONAL INCORPORATED

264,417.03

53

FIDELITY BANK PLC

54

GUARANTY TRUST BANK PLC.

55

SKYE BANK PLC

14.41

-0.69

49

2,027,606

33,900.51

1.17

2.63

72

13,836,776

540,062.14

18.35

1.89

226

20,959,291

15,129.53

1.09

1.87

95

8,732,414

56

STERLING BANK PLC.

49,231.61

1.71

-

39

883,000

57

UNION BANK NIG.PLC.

81,122.51

4.79

0.42

28

264,681

124,075.98

3.42

0.88

194

59

UNITY BANK PLC

8,416.32

0.72

4.35

38

4,409,382

60

58

WEMA BANK PLC.

UNITED BANK FOR AFRICA PLC

28,159.36

0.73

-8.75

31

14,405,765

986

91,782,551

BANKING S/N

INSURANCE CARRIERS, BROKERS AND SERVICES

62

AIICO INSURANCE PLC.

63

15,785,299

MARKET CAP(Nm)

PRICE

%CHANGE

TRADES

VOLUME

5,752.07

0.83

2.47

17

374,441

AXAMANSARD INSURANCE PLC

21,000.00

2.00

3.09

18

845,255

65

CONTINENTAL REINSURANCE PLC

10,476.47

1.01

-1.94

8

266,248

73

LASACO ASSURANCE PLC.

3,661.72

0.50

-

1

100

74

LAW UNION AND ROCK INS. PLC.

1,753.04

0.51

-

1

46,071

0.82

1.23

10

77

N.E.M INSURANCE CO (NIG) PLC.

4,330.01

335,711

78

NIGER INSURANCE CO. PLC.

3,869.74

0.50

-

1

460,000

79

PRESTIGE ASSURANCE CO. PLC.

2,759.15

0.50

-

1

476,784

80

REGENCY ALLIANCE INSURANCE COMPANY PLC

3,334.38

0.50

-

1

100

84

UNIC INSURANCE PLC.

1,291.15

0.50

-

1

421,667

87

WAPIC INSURANCE PLC

6,691.37

0.50

-

INSURANCE CARRIERS, BROKERS AND SERVICES S/N

MICRO-FINANCE BANKS

89

NPF MICROFINANCE BANK PLC

PRICE

%CHANGE

TRADES

VOLUME

2,629.63

1.15

-

7

70,200

7

70,200

S/N

MORTGAGE CARRIERS, BROKERS AND SERVICES

91

ASO SAVINGS AND LOANS PLC

MARKET CAP(Nm)

PRICE

%CHANGE

TRADES

VOLUME

7,370.87

0.50

-

1

500

92

INFINITY TRUST MORTGAGE BANK PLC

6,422.50

1.54

-

94

UNION HOMES SAVINGS AND LOANS PLC.

3,417.97

3.50

-

1

MORTGAGE CARRIERS, BROKERS AND SERVICES OTHER FINANCIAL INSTITUTIONS

95

AFRICA PRUDENTIAL REGISTRARS PLC

96 98

CUSTODIAN AND ALLIED PLC FCMB GROUP PLC.

100

ROYAL EXCHANGE PLC.

102

STANBIC IBTC HOLDINGS PLC

103

UNITED CAPITAL PLC

496,251 3,722,628

MARKET CAP(Nm)

MICRO-FINANCE BANKS

S/N

3 62

50

3

100

5

650

MARKET CAP(Nm)

PRICE

%CHANGE

TRADES

VOLUME

-0.35

CHEMICALS METALS MINING SERVICES PAPER/FOREST PRODUCTS

UNION DIAGNOSTIC & CLINICAL SERVICES PLC MEDICAL SUPPLIES PHARMACEUTICALS

108

FIDSON HEALTHCARE PLC

109

GLAXO SMITHKLINE CONSUMER NIG. PLC.

110

MAY & BAKER NIGERIA PLC.

111

NEIMETH INTERNATIONAL PHARMACEUTICALS PLC

TRADES

%CHANGE

TRADES

MARKET CAP(Nm)

PRICE

%CHANGE

TRADES

MARKET CAP(Nm)

PRICE

%CHANGE

TRADES 0

NATURAL RESOURCES

0

S/N

ENERGY EQUIPMENT AND SERVICES

147

JAPAUL OIL & MARITIME SERVICES PLC

MARKET CAP(Nm)

PRICE

%CHANGE

TRADES

3,131.35

0.50

-

1

S/N

INTEGRATED OIL AND GAS SERVICES

148

OANDO PLC

1

150

PETROLEUM AND PETROLEUM PRODUCTS DISTRIBUTORS CONOIL PLC

151

ETERNA PLC.

152

FORTE OIL PLC.

153 154 155

102

2,420,8

102

2,420,8

MARKET CAP(Nm)

PRICE

%CHANGE

TRADES

12,560.53

18.10

4.81

11

88,2

2.76

-4.83

22

449,5

210.00

-

39

41,2

MOBIL OIL NIG PLC.

55,924.72

155.09

-

9

MRS OIL NIGERIA PLC.

11,386.31

44.83

-

1

TOTAL NIGERIA PLC.

51,067.48

150.41

-1.05

48

MARKET CAP(Nm)

PRICE

%CHANGE

TRADES

191,571.15

340.00

-

3

PETROLEUM AND PETROLEUM PRODUCTS DISTRIBUTORS S/N

EXPLORATION AND PRODUCTION

156

SEPLAT PETROLEUM DEVELOPMENT COMPANY LTD

130

EXPLORATION AND PRODUCTION OIL AND GAS

5,0

SERVICES S/N

ADVERTISING

MARKET CAP(Nm)

PRICE

%CHANGE

TRADES

MARKET CAP(Nm)

PRICE

%CHANGE

TRADES

MARKET CAP(Nm)

PRICE

%CHANGE

TRADES

MARKET CAP(Nm)

PRICE

%CHANGE

TRADES

2,352.09

3.99

-

2

MARKET CAP(Nm)

PRICE

%CHANGE

TRADES

ADVERTISING S/N

APPAREL RETAILERS

APPAREL RETAILERS S/N

AUTOMOBILE/AUTO PART RETAILERS COURIER/FREIGHT/DELIVERY

160

RED STAR EXPRESS PLC HOSPITALITY

2

HOSPITALITY S/N

HOTELS/LODGING

164

IKEJA HOTEL PLC MEDIA/ENTERTAINMENT

167

DAAR COMMUNICATIONS PLC

MARKET CAP(Nm)

PRICE

%CHANGE

TRADES

5,093.05

2.45

4.70

20 20

MARKET CAP(Nm)

PRICE

%CHANGE

TRADES

6,000.00

0.50

-

0

MEDIA/ENTERTAINMENT

0 PRICE

%CHANGE

TRADES

381.02

0.63

-1.56

2

169

LEARN AFRICA PLC

655.73

0.85

-

2

6,0

171

UNIVERSITY PRESS PLC.

2,221.76

5.15

-4.98

2

420,9

6

627,0

PRINTING/PUBLISHING S/N

ROAD TRANSPORTATION

MARKET CAP(Nm)

PRICE

%CHANGE

TRADES

MARKET CAP(Nm)

PRICE

%CHANGE

TRADES

MARKET CAP(Nm)

PRICE

%CHANGE

TRADES

ROAD TRANSPORTATION S/N

SPECIALTY

SPECIALTY TRANSPORT-RELATED SERVICES

175

AIRLINE SERVICES AND LOGISTICS PLC

1,172.90

1.85

4.52

9

176

NIGERIAN AVIATION HANDLING COMPANY PLC

6,415.66

3.95

-

19

TRANSPORT-RELATED SERVICES SUPPORT AND LOGISTICS

177

C & I LEASING PLC.

178

CAVERTON OFFSHORE SUPPORT GRP PLC

28 MARKET CAP(Nm)

PRICE

%CHANGE

TRADES

941.41

0.50

-

1

4,623.70

1.38

-8.61

SUPPORT AND LOGISTICS SERVICES MAIN BOARD TOTALS PRICES FOR ASEM SECURITIES

6

PRICE

%CHANGE

TRADES

VOLUME

3,210.00

2.14

4.90

17

826,900

20.36

-

19

206,412

911.40

0.93

4.49

25

1,000,760

1,381.21

0.88

4.76

16

1,501,910

PHARMACEUTICALS

77

3,535,982

HEALTHCARE

80

3,552,982 VOLUME

214,3

100,9

315,3

VOLUM

94,7

94,7

2,987

175,189,5

Price List (Equities)

CONSTRUCTION/REAL ESTATE S/N

PROPERTY MANAGEMENT

MARKET CAP(Nm)

PRICE

%CHANGE

TRADES

PROPERTY MANAGEMENT

0

CONSTRUCTION/REAL ESTATE

0

VOLUM

CONSUMER GOODS S/N

FOOD PRODUCTS

180

MCNICHOLS PLC

MARKET CAP(Nm)

PRICE

%CHANGE

TRADES

409.86

1.38

-

3

FOOD PRODUCTS S/N

PERSONAL/HOUSEHOLD PRODUCTS

3 MARKET CAP(Nm)

PRICE

%CHANGE

PERSONAL/HOUSEHOLD PRODUCTS

TRADES

VOLUM

65,0

65,0

VOLUM

0

CONSUMER GOODS

3

65,0

FINANCIAL SERVICES S/N

MORTGAGE CARRIERS, BROKERS AND SERVICES

182

OMOLUABI SAVINGS AND LOANS PLC

MARKET CAP(Nm)

PRICE

%CHANGE

TRADES

4,600.00

0.92

-

0

MORTGAGE CARRIERS, BROKERS AND SERVICES

VOLUM

0

FINANCIAL SERVICES

0

HEALTHCARE S/N

PHARMACEUTICALS

183

AFRIK PHARMACEUTICALS PLC.

MARKET CAP(Nm)

PRICE

%CHANGE

TRADES

12.45

0.50

-

0

PHARMACEUTICALS

VOLUM

0

HEALTHCARE

0

INDUSTRIAL GOODS S/N

ELECTRONIC AND ELECTRICAL PRODUCTS

MARKET CAP(Nm)

PRICE

%CHANGE

TRADES

ELECTRONIC AND ELECTRICAL PRODUCTS

0

INDUSTRIAL GOODS

0

VOLUM

OIL AND GAS S/N 186

PETROLEUM AND PETROLEUM PRODUCTS DISTRIBUTORS CAPITAL OIL PLC

MARKET CAP(Nm)

PRICE

%CHANGE

TRADES

2,928.77

0.50

-

1

450,0

450,0

62,546

24,348.05

VOLUM

1,434,6

5,828,135

MARKET CAP(Nm)

VOLUM

7

81

0

VOLUM

63

13

VOLUME

200,0

0

S/N

S/N

VOLUM

0

-

0

391,5

MARKET CAP(Nm)

0.57

TRADES

391,5

VOLUM

PRINTING/PUBLISHING

1.75

%CHANGE

VOLUM

ACADEMY PRESS PLC.

14.13

PRICE

6,0

168

10,500.00

MARKET CAP(Nm)

6,0

VOLUM

S/N

141,300.00

17,000

VOLUM

0

HOTELS/LODGING S/N

VOLUM

0

COURIER/FREIGHT/DELIVERY S/N

VOLUM

0

AUTOMOBILE/AUTO PART RETAILERS S/N

VOLUM

0

450,000

17,000

5,0

3,101,8

1

VOLUME

675,8

VOLUM

3

-

3

12,1

84,5

236

0.50

3

VOLUM

3,599.44

2,572.69

TRADES

VOLUM

273,521.03

SERVICES

-

1

0.66

1

%CHANGE

1

4.57

INTEGRATED OIL AND GAS SERVICES S/N

VOLUM

54,998.21

1

0.50

VOLUM

TRADES

OIL AND GAS

PRICE

VOLUM

%CHANGE

PETROLEUM AND PETROLEUM PRODUCTS DISTRIBUTORS

1,776.57

VOLUM

PRICE

100,000 25,667,204

MARKET CAP(Nm)

VOLUM

MARKET CAP(Nm)

1,875,082

33,982,967

VOLUM

2,820,3

0

8 125

129,558,996

521,6

0

49

277

521,6

VOLUM

0

4.81

MEDICAL SUPPLIES S/N

%CHANGE

PRICE

3.79 1.09

HEALTHCARE PROVIDERS S/N

PRICE

MARKET CAP(Nm)

PAPER/FOREST PRODUCTS

S/N

FOOD/DRUG RETAILERS AND WHOLESALERS

MARKET CAP(Nm)

PRICE

%CHANGE

FOOD/DRUG RETAILERS AND WHOLESALERS

EQUITIES TOTALS

S/N

4

515,0

3,538

198,459,4

Price List (ETP) PRICE

%CHANGE

TRADES

1

LOTUS HALAL EQUITY ETF

509.64

8.22

-0.24

1

2

NEWGOLD EXCHANGE TRADED FUND (ETF)

366.60

2,444.00

0.95

1

STANBIC IBTC ETF 30

824.18

72.00

3

COMPANY

4

VETIVA BANKING ETF

5 6

VETIVA CONSUMER GOODS ETF VETIVA GRIFFIN 30 ETF

7

VETIVA INDUSTRIAL ETF

450,0

VOLUM

0

ASEM TOTALS

PRICES FOR ETP SECURITIES

TRADES

VOLUM

0

SERVICES

HEALTHCARE HEALTHCARE PROVIDERS

MARKET CAP(Nm)

2.86

1,337

VOLUM

0 161

5,720.00

FINANCIAL SERVICES

105

TRADES

22,292.27 21,584.95

OTHER FINANCIAL INSTITUTIONS

S/N

%CHANGE

ENERGY EQUIPMENT AND SERVICES

MARKET CAP(Nm)

BUILDING CONSTRUCTION

5,0

OIL AND GAS

CONSTRUCTION/REAL ESTATE S/N

PRICE

CHEMICALS

11,957,003

55

DIVERSIFIED INDUSTRIES

39,5

NATURAL RESOURCES

MINING SERVICES

0.76

MARKET CAP(Nm)

INDUSTRIAL GOODS

VOLUME

295.76

10,0

0

TOOLS AND MACHINERY

0

2,647.29

8

PACKAGING/CONTAINERS

TRADES

PRICE

323,9

VOLUM

-

%CHANGE

14

19.41

TRADES

-

S/N

CONGLOMERATES

13

43,467.79

%CHANGE

-

METALS

A.G. LEVENTIS NIGERIA PLC.

PRICE 8.11

2,181,585

MARKET CAP(Nm)

VOLUM

38.50

2,320,637

JOHN HOLT PLC.

MARKET CAP(Nm)

BUILDING MATERIALS

89,301

0

TRADES

2,350.47

BERGER PAINTS PLC CAP PLC

23

9

%CHANGE

26,950.00

ASHAKA CEM PLC

125 126

50

11

PRICE

6

AGRICULTURE DIVERSIFIED INDUSTRIES

MARKET CAP(Nm)

0

LIVESTOCK/ANIMAL SPECIALTIES

S/N

Value of Shares(N)

ELECTRONIC AND ELECTRICAL PRODUCTS MARKET CAP(Nm)

FISHING/HUNTING/TRAPPING S/N

Quantity Traded

ICT

124

Price List (Equities)

CROP PRODUCTION S/N

Quotation(N)

TELECOMMUNICATIONS SERVICES

S/N

AGRICULTURE S/N

No Of Deals

INDUSTRIAL GOODS

INDUSTRIAL GOODS S/N

Company name

Price List (Equities)

FINANCIAL SERVICES S/N

Sector

MARKET CAP(Nm)

-

0

91.41

2.50

1.21

1

74.46 1,777.73

6.41 11.82

-0.16 0.08

1 5

80.88

18.46

-0.65

ETP TOTALS

VOLUM

130,0

1 10

130,0

10

130,0

ICT S/N

COMPUTER BASED SYSTEMS

MARKET CAP(Nm)

PRICE

%CHANGE

TRADES 0

0

MARKET CAP(Nm)

PRICE

%CHANGE

TRADES

VOLUME

0

0

TRADES

VOLUME

COMPUTER BASED SYSTEMS S/N

COMPUTERS AND PERIPHERALS

COMPUTERS AND PERIPHERALS S/N

ELECTRONIC COMMUNICATIONS SERVICES

MARKET CAP(Nm)

PRICE

%CHANGE

PRICES FOR DEBT SECURITIES S/N

COMPANY

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National Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

Thursday, May 12, 2016

Info Tech

35

Bridging telcos’ revenue gap through restrictions on internet calls The Over the Top, OTT, services and apps made strong foray into the telecoms services globally due to their near-zero charges.

In Nigeria as expected, millions of subscribers latched into the opportunities availed by these service platforms to cut costs on voice tariffs and other charges by the telcos. With the Mobile Network Operators, MNOs, experiencing shortfalls in revenue, indications suggest that the MNOs may seek ways of restricting access to the free services to rake in more incomes from voice calls. Isaiah Erhiawarien writes.

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here are indications that the mobile network operators in Nigeria may soon ask the Nigerian Communications Commission to ban voice calls made through applications and services such as Skype, Viber, WhatsApp, Twitter, Chat On, Snapchat, Instagram, Google Talk, Hike, Line, WeChat and Tango in order to protect their business.

The reason is because there are already stiff opposition to the non-regulation of these services and applications referred to as Over The Top, OTT Services. Our latest finding revealed that across Africa, mobile network operators, MNOs, seem to be losing huge voice revenue due to the massive embrace of phone calls through the internet, what experts call Voice over Internet Protocol, VoIP, call.

National Mirror reliably gathered that one of the reasons more people across Africa, and indeed Nigeria are opting for phone calls through the internet is the no call charge benefit, enjoyed by subscribers particularly when such calls are over international boundaries.

Online marketer, Greg Agbonyeme, said that he did most of his business through OTT calls since it is cheaper for him to call his clients in Malayasia, saying that making calls helps to reduce the huge bills incurred using the conventional mobile phone calls.

According to him, the problems of drop calls, which has not reduced in the country, is a major reason for most Nigerians making calls through the OTT, due to relief that it gives.

Besides, he said that since the OTT also offers video calls which is also cheaper than that made through the conventional phone calls platform, more subscribers seems to be embracing it.

The tune for more effective regulation of voice through OTT is coming from MTN Ghana, whose proposal for its outright banning is said to be currently receiving the attention of the Ghana telecoms industry regulator.

National Communications Authority, NCA, which is the equivalent of the Nigerian Communications Commission, NCC, has given industry stakeholders the node to debate the issue in the public

domain to enable it take a decision on.

This call for the ban of phone calls through OTT is coming barely less than three months when the NCC disclosed that the fears over its intention to regulate the OTT were unfounded.

The Director of Public Affairs of the NCC, Mr. Tony Ojobo told social media savvy at the Social Media Week in Lagos that the fears were misplaced and that the Commission was only interested in the value and quality of discourse on the issue.

According to the Commission, what drew the ire of subscribers over the proposed regulation of the OTT, was a document titled: ‘An Overview of Provision of Over The Top (OTT) Services’ published by the Policy, Competition and Economic Analysis Department on the regulator’s website.

But the NCC however denied such a move, saying that the document merely encourages network providers in Nigeria to innovate and explore more efficient business models that would enable them compete favourably with OTT service providers.

The Commission however acknowledged that traditional telephony and SMS revenues are under threat from the OTT. It said that it was not the first time that some operators would express concern over the activities of OTT operators and how they affect baseline re-

turns in the industry.

Reacting to the news of the call for its ban in Ghana, some stakeholders feared that such call may soon surface and urged that before making such call MNOs in Nigeria should publish their revenue index before the wide embrace of OTT and after the embrace of OTT by subscribers.

Strategy and Development Manager at the E-payment Providers Association of Nigeria, EPPAN, Mrs. Sylvia Ntia told National Mirror that it was too early to begin to think of calling for the ban of OTT base voice call.

She said: “If we have the index of revenue now that it in use as against when it is banned then we can make informed decision. As a consumer who does not understand the technical dynamics involved but just think of the value I get, I

What drew the ire of subscribers over the proposed regulation of the OTT, was a document titled: ‘An Overview of Provision of Over The Top (OTT) Services’ published by the Policy, Competition and Economic Analysis Department on the regulator’s website. But the NCC however denied such a move, saying that the document merely encourages network providers in Nigeria to innovate and explore more efficient business models that would enable them compete favourably with OTT service providers

will say it should not be banned.”

A subscriber and IT expert, Kijie Bern Ewah, said that there were lots of disruptive enterprises that have been deployed by IT gurus in the ICT industry, and that they are currently contending with existing enterprises.

For instance, he said that Uber is taking money from taxi companies.

Airbnb is disrupting traditional hotels chains worldwide. Alibaba and Amazon have done same to the Walmarts of the world.”

Ewah called for the opposition of any future call for the ban of voice call on OTT in Nigeria, and that the MNOs need not think of advocating for the ban of voice call but that they should “look for creative ways around it. The telecos will make more money from data.”

In its 2013 Group report, the MTN Group revealed that it recorded a huge voice drop in revenue as against data, which has seen an appreciable increase over the years.

The Group said that it suffered pressures from traditional voice revenue despite huge investment made to improve network quality across all countries where it operates.

MTN said that the increased experienced in the numbers of subscriber base is not reflected in the revenue from voice and indication that a large numbers of subscribes are no longer making calls through traditional means.

MTN Nigeria, while analysing its financial performance for 2014 said its SMS revenue declined sharply by 29 percent as the subscribers embrace the OTTs.

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Info Tech

Thursday, May 12, 2016

National Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

NCC opens more spectrums to drive internet penetration Isaiah Erhiawarien

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igerian Communications Commission, NCC, has opened up 38 GHz and 42 GHz spectrum bands for operators in the country in order to speed up the achievement of the 30 percent internet penetration target of 2018, as outlined by the Federal Government.

Announcing the release of the two spectrums at a Stakeholders Consultative Forum in Lagos on the licensing of the 38Ghz and 42Ghz spectrums and the preplanning of the 23Ghz spectrum, the Commission said that it is mindful of the impact of broadband internet access on the economic development of Nigeria as well as its potency for job creation.

The NCC expressed optimism that the planned auctioning of the two spectrums

would go a long way addressing the challenge of spectrum shortages in the country, and that it would however, re-plan the 23 GHz Microwave Spectrum band, which already existed.

Deputy Director, Spectrum Administration at the NCC, Engr. Toyin Asaju who unveiled the spectrums’ offers to stakeholders called for their input within the next four weeks in the process that will lead to the final determination of the entire licensing exercise.

He said the 38 GHz band is the range of Electromagnetic Frequency spectrum that falls within 37GHz to 39.5GHz, which supports an extremely high degree of frequency reuse due to high directivity of Antennas.

Asaju while listing the benefit of the whole process to include availability of brand

new spectrum; reduction on the pressure of existing microwave (flexibility) bands; improvement on all forms of services (broadband, data, among others) and removal of network conjections, which will subsequently result in improved quality of service, said the 38GHz band has broad bandwidth, suitable for broadband deployment, which

can enhance the utilization of Green Field Spectrum band.

According to him, the 38 GHz band has been bench marked against standards from Australia, Hong Kong, United Kingdom and Qatar.

He disclosed that on the 42 GHz band, which ranges between 40.5GHz to 43.5GHz, and is based on the International Telecommunications Union

(ITU) recommendation, would have 16 channels of 56MHz each; 1500 MHz duplex separation and 604 MHz Duplex gap.

He said potential user must obtain an operational license duly issued by the commission as well as apply for spectrum license to use 38 GHz and 42GHz spectrum bands and that licenses for this bands will be granted on a non-exclusive link by link basis.

NITDA kicks off 2016 Gitex with $1m offer for startups Isaiah Erhiawarien

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he National Information Technology Development Agency, NITDA, has kicked off the Gitex 2016 by earmarking $1 million for startups from Nigeria as part of efforts aimed at developing local technology.

Acting Director General of the agency, Dr Vincent Olatunji who disclosed the offer while inaugurating the Local Organising Committee, LOC, said that NITDA had commenced the selection process for the country’s startup champions to pitch at the Gitex STARTUP MOVEMENT. Olatunji said Nigeria through the NITDA plans to promote a minimum of 10 startups to pitch for business at the local startup gatherings expected to have over 400 startups.

The global startup ecosystem will be convening at GITEX 2016 with more than 2,000 entrepreneurs, investors and mentors from over 30 countries that are expected to provide the fillip to do deals on technology innovation.

He tasked the LOC members to commit their time and wits to ensuring that Nigeria achieves its objectives for being part of the Gitex event, now touted as the biggest technology event in the Middle East, South East Asia and Africa.

“Our participation in Gitex over the years has really benefitted the country in many ways. It has attracted investments to the country; and two

of our startups that showcased their innovation at last year’s event have been engaged by a Malaysia company.

I keep on telling people that ICT is the credible alternative to oil. Through ICT the country could gain quickly what it had lost to oil in the last few years since the oil price started nose diving. So, I urge this LOC to do this work diligently as if there is no tomorrow. You may be helping the country back on the path of honour and pride”, said the NITDA’s boss.

L-R: Executive Director, Wema Bank Plc, Mrs. Folake Sanu; Company Seretary, Mr. Wole Ajimisinmi; Chairman, Mr. Adeyinka Asekun and Managing Director/CEO, Mr. Segun Oloketun, during the 2015 Annual General Meeting of Wema Bank Plc in Lagos, yesterday. PHOTO: SAMUEL ADETIMEHIN

Gwandu tasks stakeholders on 5G standards Isaiah Erhiawarien

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ormer Chairman, Commonwealth ITU Group, Dr. Bashir Gwandu, has

Airtel, Facebook partner on Nigeria’s internet services Isaiah Erhiawarien

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harti Airtel Africa has gone into partner with Facebook to provide Nigerians free access to Facebook including over 85 web sites across the world.

The free internet browsing of the other websites, according to the duo can be access through0. freebasics.com, and will be available in the 17 countries across Africa.

Nigerians with an Airtel mobile connection will be able to access all the services that are available through Free Basics without paying extra for data charges or rental.

Free Basics will launch in Nigeria with more than 85 free services dedicated to health, education, jobs, and finance. To date, Facebook estimates that its con-

nectivity efforts, which include Free Basics, have brought more than 25 million people online who would not be otherwise.

This initiative is part of Facebook’s commitment to bringing people online and reducing affordability barriers.

Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of Airtel Africa, Christian de Faria, said his company is pleased to take the big step forward in its partnership with Facebook, bringing more people online in Africa’s most populous country and helping to further narrow the digital divide.

“This builds on our vision of using our widespread 3G network to help improve lives and communities by empowering them with access to digital content and services that are tailored to their needs”, he noted.

called on all Fifth Generation (5G) systems engineers and standards developers to ensure full engagement with key stakeholders around the globe when developing 5G standards for the 5G to succeed and avoid the pitfalls of other technologies such as the Wimax and even the 3G. Gwandu made the call during his analysis of the 5G development efforts as part of his presentation on “Delivering a Sustainable and long-term 5G future” at the recently concluded 2nd International Conference on 5G Hurdle 2016 organised in London by Wireless World Research Forum –a group of leading experts and researchers on 5G networks in association with Forum Europe.

He highlighted a number of strategies that experts need to adopt for 5G to have a sustainable future some of which include, ensuring sustained research effort, global stakeholder engagement and collaboration, innovative regulation and policy development; technical standards harmonisation and spectrum availability and early release, infrastructure design and harmonisation, co-existence and network

interference minimization.

The industry expert suggested more focus on latency reduction, resilience, availability for confidence building, spectral efficiency and Speed, mobility, and antenna versatility together with timely spectrum release and adequate planning.

He urged experts to adopt technology neutrality, Infrastructure deployment and coverage, accurate digital and regular update of high-resolution maps and accurate positioning, weather and ecological consideration in antenna deployments.

According to him, much is expected for confidence building for technology that is expected to be relied on by driver-less cars and independents robots in everyday life from roads, car parks, utility control centers, shops and homes as well as surveillance systems with sub-millisecond signal delay.

Gwandu advised that all efforts be made harmonized for Radio Access Technologies (RATS) as well as harmonized spectrum bands between Europe and Americas for 5G usage citing amongst many other bands the 24GHz, the 28GHz, the 31GHz and 66GHz bands.

National Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

Thursday, May 12, 2016

Brands & Marketing

37

Consumers groan as prices of goods, services skyrocket As Nigerians continue to go through one of the most devastating adverse economic conditions in recent times, consumers are lamenting skyrocketing prices and urging government to quickly roll out cushioning policies. DAVID AUDU reports.

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he impact of Nigerian currency low performance against the dollars is more noticeable in the prices of consumer goods, which have gone beyond the reach of the common man. Even for products that are not imported and may have no direct bearing in currency devaluation, many Nigerian, especially traders and market women who are used to capitalizing on adverse situation such as the economy is experiencing today, use it as an excuses to exploit.

This correspondent encounter with a lady of about 35 year who stopped by to price a tomato brings to reality that indeed prices of food items have been on a steady rise in recent times.

This customer inquired how much a tomato sell and the retailer responded in similar manner saying N300.00. The countenance of the customer suddenly changed, then looked into the tomato seller’s eyes and asked: last price?

The bargain didn’t last as the seller looked unimpressed as if telling the customer if she is not living in Nigeria.

This correspondent priced the same tomatoes, five of them, not more than the size of a table tennis ball, and the seller flatly replied N300.00, while psychologically sizing me up to know whether I will attempt pricing it down.

But my response shocked her. “What is happening? I asked and she replied, “it is Change”.

Meaning, according to market analysts, the slogan of the government that change is coming, but while the change is expected to reflect in good living for the people, the reverse seems to be the case. And, retailers have adopted the ‘change mantra’ to mean increased prices. Not even to mention the crisis of fuel scarcity, which on its own is a genuine excuse”.

The example of the tomato given above on a normal day will not sell more than a N100.00.

But these times analysts believe is no more normal as consumers across the country are expressing concern over the persistent price increase of some food items, especially imported rice, vegetable oil and palm oil.

Fresh tomatoes, one of the most common perishable commodities in Nigeria, is now sold in Lagos, at an average price of N900 for an av-

OTHER COMMODITIES THAT HAVE BEEN ON STEEP RISE IN RECENT TIMES INCLUDE RICE. A COMMODITY RESEARCH AGENCY IN THE APRIL REPORT STATED THAT A 50 KILOGRAMME BAG OF THAILAND RICE, WHICH SOLD FOR BETWEEN N10,500 AND N11,000 THREE WEEKS AGO, IS NOW N13,000 WHILE THE 25 KILOGRAMME BAG THAT WAS SOLD AT N5,500 IS NOW SELLING BETWEEN N6,500 AND N7,000, DEPENDING ON THE TYPE erage basket compared to N500 in first quarter of 2015 and N450 in fourth quarter of 2014 which implies an average increase of between 0 to 50 percent The Minister of Agriculture, Chief Audu Ogbe was quoted recently to have given reasons on the sky-rocking price of tomatoes. He said local manufacturers of tomato paste were mopping up the produce to feed the factory, and beside tomatoes being a seasonal produce, it is currently out of season, and coupled with inflation running into double digits, is also contributing to make life miserable for the average Nigerian housewife.

“Other commodities that have been on steep rise in recent times include rice. A commodity

research agency in the April report stated that a 50 kilogramme bag of Thailand rice, which sold for between N10,500 and N11,000 three weeks ago, is now N13,000 while the 25 kilogramme bag that was sold at N5,500 is now selling between N6,500 and N7,000, depending on the type.

A trader in Kano who deals in essential commodities, said there was a general decline in patronage as most customers can no longer afford many things, including those considered essential.

In Ogbete market in Enugu State, random survey indicate that energy drinks, candies, especially chocolate and other imported commodities are disappearing on the shelves of various supermarkets because customers hardly afford

Acquisitions, extension, key to NB’s market dominance has remained focused and committed to growing the beverage industry. orporate entities at various times have Giving appraisal of the company’s perforembarked on acquisitions, brand exten- mance in the year ended 2015, Managing Direcsion and innovation to maintain market tor of NB plc, Nicolaas Vervelde, said delivering dominance. profit in challenging times could not have been According to analysts Mergers and possible but for some strategic moves the comAcquisitions,(M & A) have been the most com- pany have taken in recent times. These he said mon strategies by corporate firms not only to include acquisition of existing brands, brand expand their portfolio but also to improve prof- extension and product innovation. its and productivity. When properly carried, Vervelde explained that beside NB’s old portthe objectives remain to reduce expenses of folio of old brands such as Star Lager, Gulder, the firm and at the same time deliver profit to Maltina, Legend Extra Stout, Amstel Malta and shareholders.

Heineken Lager beer, aggressive acquisition It is in this light that in spite of what econo- has enabled the company to take possession and mists described as challenging and unfavour- reintroduce some known brands such as Goldable business environment in the country that berg Lager Beer, Life Lager Beer among others, Nigeria Breweries Plc, through these strategies, which now have a life of their own.

DAVID AUDU

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While acknowledging that favourable demography, growing middle class and rising urbanisation makes the market outlook to be bright despite the current purchasing power challenges, the brewing industry expert also expressed optimism that the company would maintain its leadership position in the industry with strong innovation agenda, strong brand portfolio and cost leadership focus.

Explaining the innovation agenda, Vervelde noted that the company have increased its portfolio of brands in 2014 with the addition of Ace Passion, two line extension of the Star brand, bringing on its stable new products such as Star Lite and Star Radler, in addition to the introduction of ACE Roots, in response to the growing consumer demands for ready to drink, RTD, brands.

them. The same is reported in other parts of the country.

The report notes that customers are changing their tastes, going only for the necessities of life. Chocolates are no more selling, so we have decided not to go for chocolates and energy drinks because majority of our customers are coming for just the basic necessities,” said an official of a popular Supermarket in Lagos, who did not want his name mentioned.

Although the naira has depreciated, a source close to the operations of the supermarket, however, disclosed that their prices are reasonable considering the situation on the ground.

“The slump in the value of the naira is certainly having an effect on importation, but we still have stock of goods that will last for a long time. You know we have other places in Kano, and they are all well stocked. We only hope that things would soon stabilise”, he said.

According to a report from SBM Intelligence, a Lagos based Research Firm, prices increased in nearly every segment of household goods and consumables between March and April 2015 which indicates the effect of the weakening Naira against the dollar.

The report revealed fairly unstable prices of imported goods while locally produced consumer goods have maintained stable prices over the last six months. Transportation, insurgency and stability, climate change, availability of labour, climate change and exchange rate fluctuations are some of the major reasons for the price increase recorded and a possible devaluation of the Naira could make the situation even worse.

In light of this global reality, at a group of G-24 meeting recently, members were reaffirmed that managing policy space, making economies more resilient to support macroeconomic stability, as well as achieving higher, more balanced and inclusive growth remained a priorities. They advised that working towards exchange rate flexibility and to create appropriate and reserve buffers, where available, could contribute to cushioning the effect on the poor in the society.

He said 21.5 per cent of the company’s 2015 revenue came from innovations which led to introduction of new products into the market, adding that the company is able to deliver good results and return on investment due to cost leadership and market leadership supported by strong innovations Though Vervelde said Nigerian Breweries controls about two thirds of the lager market in Nigeria, he however took time to explain the nature of such leadership and categorizations.

“We can look at the lager category as four segments based on the pricing. There is what we call the international premium brands, where Heineken plays and is in the number one position; then you have the national premium where Star and Gulder are leading other brands in the market. Then, we also have the reference pricing or mainstream pricing and here we have Goldberg and 33 playing it out’.

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Brands & Marketing

Thursday, May 12, 2016

Organisers call for 2016 SERAS-CSR awards’ entries DAVID AUDU

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ruContact CSR Nigeria has called for entry for The SERAS- CSR Awards 2016 edition, marking the 10th anniversary of the award.

Having enjoyed nine successful seasons, TruContact CSR Nigeria Chief Executive Officer Mr. Ken Egbas promised that the 2016 edition would be bigger and more exciting.

With the theme “Sustainable Development Goals and The Future of Africa: Organisations as The Game Changers”, the organizer said the assessments and categorizations would be based on the recently launched seventeen sustainable development goals.

He said the theme is based on the launch of an ambitious global mis-

sion by the world leaders to reduce poverty and enhance human development.

“Africa and Nigeria was only able to attain a little under 15 per cent of expected target impacts. But with the take-off of the sustainable development goals, SDG’s, by the United Nations, businesses have been urged to take the driver’s seat in actualizing this huge agenda”.

According to the UN Secretary General, Ban Ki-moon, business is a “vital partner in achieving the sustainable development goals..

“The UN holds the view that the SDG’s cannot succeed without the support of business to design and scale up sustainable solutions.

“The SDG’s also provides immense platforms for companies to develop sustainable solutions, including

inclusive business models that avails low-income populations’ access to goods and services and also improves their livelihoods.

However, the organizers also announced that for the first time in its ten year’s history, the award would be opening its doors to entries from other parts of Africa.

“When we commenced the awards in 2007, we had short, medium and long term goals. We expected by the tenth or eleventh year to make the awards accessible to all of Africa, that is after we must have proven our mettle in Nigeria which of course is not only one of the largest markets in Africa, but also at the moment Nigeria rates as number two on the continent in terms of CSR and sustainability investment and related activities, Egbas said.

National Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

Optimum Exposures to launch ‘The Elephant’ billboard

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he partnership between Optimum Exposures and Daktronics has given birth to the largest digital billboard in Sub-Saharan Africa, ‘The Elephant’. The iconic board will go live in Lagos, Nigeria in June.

Managing Director of Optimum Exposures, Bayo Adio described the landmark as part of his company’s commitment to boosting brand building and communication efforts in the Nigerian market.

‘It is a great pleasure to see the Elephant Board go live on schedule. We are particularly happy to provide an innovative platform through which brands can reach, engage and connect with prospects, customers and the public in an absorbing manner never before seen in the out-of-home industry in Nigeria. This board is both digital and social; it is mind-blowing,’ said Mr Adio.

In addition to delivering digital messages on brands that take position on the board, the Elephant, nimble, so to say, is the first socially responsible billboard in Nigeria. It would

be displaying accurate time and temperature in addition to notices of happenings or breaking news in Lagos.

‘That’s part of our way of giving back to the society. It can alert the public on happenings, so that people can make important decisions, particularly on safety matters,’ according to Tyler Husby, Project manager at Daktronics Company, the manufacturer of the LED board.

For stakeholders in the out-of-home industry, the excitement deepens as this has built up while the upgrading of the board was still in the works, giving rise to much talk among stakeholders with buzz that the Elephant would not just be digital but social.

Some of the unique features of the Elephant Billboard include the ability to engage the public through social media platforms, including Facebook, Instragram and Twitter. The Marketing Manager, Lucia Akinwolere pointed out that ‘it is amazing that a board this size can be flexible enough to engage the public on social platforms.

Guinness Nigeria wins new award on 66th anniversary

G L-R: Marketing Director, RB, West Africa, Mr. oguzhan silivrili, Manager, National Stadium, Surulere, Engr. Alanamu Abolore and General Manager, RB west Africa, Mr. Rahul Murgai, during the Grand Finale of Dettol Clean Naija Campaign in Lagos, recently.

Indigenous channel, ST Yoruba, launches on StarTimes DAVID AUDU

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ay TV firm, StarTimes, has a launched new indigenous entertainment channel, ST Yoruba. Marketing Director, Dare Kafar, said the new channel which will airs on Channel 160 on digital terrestrial and channel 412 on digital satellite platforms was designed to showcase the rich cultural heritage of the Yoruba nation.

He said as a 24-hour general entertainment channel it follows the success of ST Dadin Kowa enjoyed by the Hausa viewers, adding that StarTimes value the arrival of this new Yoruba movie channel.

“It has been in our plans to give more to our movie loving subscribers. They deserve a glamorous channel that gives maximum satisfaction.

And with this, they will be thrilled and enjoy maximum entertainment.

Kafar said the channel was designed to build cohesive family viewing with a blend of classic and contemporary Yoruba movies, cultural shows, celebrity news, historical shows, behind the scene programs, celebration of movie icons and other lifestyle programs.

“The channel blends universal appeal with local flavour and appeals to viewers across South Western Nigeria States, the Yorubas locally and in diaspora, as well as other viewers and fans of Yoruba culture and entertainment across Africa.

The launch of ST Yoruba was a highly strategic move which will help to display the rich Yoruba culture in all its glory to a global audience”.

Kafar stated that ST Yoruba as a lifestyle channel generally will include fiction-based social family dramas, fun-filled chat shows, highvoltage action reality shows, and blockbuster Yoruba movies.

“Local Producers will be empowered to produce top rated Contemporary Contents that will be of high cultural value and most appealing to the viewership. Indeed, ST Yoruba will become the Cultural, Political and social integration of the Yorubas as a desirable development agenda partner.

“Viewers can also enjoy new and freshly produced Yoruba movies which capture the exploits of their star actresses, including Doris Simeon, Iyabo Ojo, Ayo Adesanya, Mosun Filani, Mercy Aigbe, Mide Martins, Funke Akindele, Lizzy Anjorin, Fa-

thia Balogun, Bukky Wright and others.

“For viewers who enjoy the news and economic development in Western Nigeria, there is Iroyin Imole produced in collaboration with Development Agenda for Western Nigeria, DAWN. TIATA will cover exciting plays and movies that extol the Yoruba traditions and culture.

“We also have African fashion show showcasing Yoruba wardrobes, hairdos and makeovers on the Khabirat Kafidipe show. Celebration of an Icon will showcase in a chronological order, daily, the works of the celebrated actresses who will also share on influence and experiences.

He said for movie lovers, Weekend Nights would be dedicated to Classic Yoruba Movies while Sunday Nights is for Movie Premiere.

“ST Yoruba will also through high quality and diverse programs highlights social issues such as politics, love, marriage, social vices and unrest, youthful exuberances and developmental issues. ST Yoruba will also help in propagating Yoruba heritage, values, virtues and norms and redirect the perceptions, views and knowledge of the next generation, Kafar explained.

uinness Nigeria has been named as one of the best places to work in Nigeria for 2015. The company also clinched the top spot for the Excellence in Wellness Award at the Great Place to Work Institute which held itsawards ceremony recently in Lagos.

The awards also added shine to the company as it celebrates 66 years of incorporation in Nigeria.

Receiving the award, Human Resources Director, Guinness Nigeria, Monica Peach, said that she was proud to receive the award. “This is a great achievement moment for us and I feel proud to accept this award onbehalf of the management and staff of Guinness Nigeria. We are delighted at this recognition which is a celebration of our greatest asset - our people. It is our desire to get back to the top spot in

the coming years.”

According to the spokesperson for the Great Place to Work Institute, Victor Ligbago, Guinness Nigeria has demonstrated outstanding performance in the Trust Index and Culture Audit Survey and showcased bestpractices in employee policies and programmes which exemplify the five dimensions of the Great Place to Work Model: credibility, respect, fairness, pride and camaraderie’’.

Corporate Relations Director, Guinness Nigeria, Sesan Sobowale, commenting on the award said it has been a challenging few months with an extremely dynamic and volatile economic environment. “We believe thatthis recognition, coming at this time will give all our employees the added impetus required to work together to grow our business into the future.”

Ventra Media appoints Strategy Director

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igital Media firm, Ventra Media Group has appointed Tomiwa Aladekomo as Client Service & Strategy Director.

Aladekomo, until recently, was Senior Digital Manager at Nigerian Breweries where he led digital marketing strategy and execution for a portfolio of some of the largest beverage brands in the country.

The hire, which follows that of Kate Williams, formerly of Fuze. ng, as Head of Creative and Editorial, signals a strong rise in capacity for the agency, which counts the The Guardian, DSTV, Nairabet and Zenith Bank as some of its biggest clients.

Chief Executive Officer, Ventra Media, Daryn Wober, said the agency

was excited to have Aladekomo join the Ventra Media team. He brings the experience of working on brand’s side for some of the best-known brands in the country. The work he did at Nigerian Breweries showcased a sophisticated understanding of the African digital marketplace and we look forward to putting that skill set to work in service of our clients.”

Ventra Media is a full-service digital marketing and rights agency whose range of services includes digital strategy, growing social media audiences and planning, as well as buying digital media for brands and content owners. The outfit also specialises in website and apps development, social media management and content production

National Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

Capital Market

Thursday, May 12, 2016

39

Equities down 0.06% on cement stocks’ slump Johnson Okanlawon

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he industrial goods sector recorded highest sell offs in the equities segment of the Nigerian Stock Exchange yesterday, as investors dumped cement stocks.

The All Share Index depreciated 0.06 per cent to close at 25,630.62 points, compared to the decline of 0.70 per cent recorded the preceding day to close at 25,646.56 points.

Market capitalization N2 billion to close at N8.819 trillion, compared to the drop of N63 billion recorded the preceding day to close at N8.821 trillion.

Further analysis showed that the depreciation recorded in the share prices of Dangote Cement, Dangote Sugar, Flour Mills, Lafarge Africa and ETI were mainly responsible for the loss recorded in the index.

The total value of stocks traded was N1.60 billion, up 17.59 per cent from N1.36billion recorded the preceding day.

The total volume of stocks traded was 198.45million in 3,538 deals, while the three most actively traded stocks were FCMB, Guaranty Trust Bank and United Bank for Africa.

Tigger Brands lead the gainers’ table with 46 kobo or 10.02 per cent to close at N5.05 per share, followed by Livestock Plc with four kobo or five per cent to close at 84 kobo per share.

Champion Breweries Plc added 14 kobo or 4.98 per cent to close at N2.95 per share, while Diamond Bank Plc appreciated eight kobo or 4.97 per cent to close at N1.69 per share.

Union Dicon Salt Plc rose 61 kobo or 4.97 per cent to close at N12.89 per share, while Cement Company of Northern Nigeria Plc was up 33 kobo or 4.92 per cent to close at N7.04 per share.

Conversely, Wema Bank Plc lost seven kobo or 8.75 per cent to close at 73 kobo per share, while Caverton Plc depreciated 13 kobo or 8.61 per cent to close at N1.38 per share.

John Holt Plc declined four kobo or five per cent to close at 76 kobo per share, while University Press Plc Inter-Bank Rate dipped 27 kobo or 4.98 per Naira cent to close at N5.15 per share.

N197.00 Flour Mills Plc shed Gainers N1.23 and Losers or 4.92 per cent to close StartatDate Date 24/11/2015 Market indicators Gainers and23/11/2015 Losers through End PrintDate Date 24/11/2015 Start 23/11/2015 through End Date 24/11/2015 N23.76 per share, while EterAll-Share Index 27,596.81 points Print Date 24/11/2015 na Oil Plc was down 14 kobo Market capitalisation 9.49trn or 4.83 per cent to close at Gainers for Equities N2.76 per share.

ForexRally to extend operations to Abuja, Port Harcourt Johnson Okanlawon

T

o ensure more Nigerians access foreign exchange trading, an international online broker, ForexRally, is planning to expand its operations to the Federal Capital Territory, Abuja and Port Harcourt.

The firm, which offers a wide variety of trading instruments, said the most popular choices among traders are usually the Forex market and some commodities.

Speaking at a press briefing cum award ceremony in Lagos, the Chief Executive Officer of Forex Rally, Mr. Artem Trofymenko, said novice traders, must thoroughly compre-

hend many of the forex terms, and abbreviations before making their first trade.

“Therefore, they often feel overwhelmed and discouraged to start their own journey in the forex market. Forex Rally is here to make sure that this doesn’t happen. We offer our clients advanced forex knowledge, in their own language, to become professional traders,” he said.

The firm, which rewarded winners of its “1st Nigerian Trading Championship, with a star prize of a brand new Toyota Hilux, said it is particularly interested in expanding its operations in Nigeria because of the immense potential of the country especially its huge vi-

brant youth population.

He said, “I see an unlimited potential in this country. What I like about Nigeria is the entrepreneurial drive of the people.

Most people are interested in business. We want to have offices in Port Harcourt and Abuja because we want to reach more young people.”

He explained that in addition to offering world class trading platform to its numerous clients, the company also paid a lot of emphasis on boosting financial literacy in the country.

“We decided to focus on education because you cannot really succeed in the financial market without getting the right education,” he said.

Also, the Business Develop-

ment Manager, Mr. Michael Akinwale, noted that there are a lot of opportunities in the country’s forex trading sector, adding that Forex Rally was out to ensure that Nigerians were adequately educated and informed on the opportunities that exist in the sector.

He pointed out that the company was the first to introduce the naira trading platform in the country as well as the N5,000 no deposit bonus initiative.

The award ceremony saw several winners going home with exciting prizes including Mr. Henry Williams who won the star prize of a brand new Toyota Hilux.

Global stocks retreat, dollar falls after six-day rally

U

nited States and European stocks stumbled yesterday after big gains a day earlier amid disappointing corporate earnings, while the US dollar was set to snap a six-session rally.

Oil prices surged for a second day as data showed US crude stockpiles fell unexpectedly last week.

The yen rebounded 0.6 per cent against the dollar, halting declines against the greenback as Japan has threatened to intervene on its currency. Against a basket of currencies including the yen, the dollar fell 0.6 per cent.

MSCI’s broad gauge of global stocks fell 0.2 per cent. On Tuesday, the index climbed nearly 1.1 per cent, its best session in about a month, while the US benchmark S&P 500 had tallied its

best day in about two months.

“There was no one real catalyst of any strength that really moved our market higher yesterday, so I think the movement that we’re seeing today is just a natural selloff,” said Jonathan Corpina, senior managing partner for Meridian Equity Partners in New York.

The Dow Jones industrial average was falling 109.65 points, or 0.61 per cent, at 17,818.7, the S&P 500 was losing 8.85 points, or 0.42 per cent, at 2,075.54 and the Nasdaq Composite was dropping 17.51 points, or 0.36 percent, at 4,792.37.

Disappointing profit reports from Disney and Macy’s hurt stocks, with Disney the biggest drag on the Dow and the S&P 500, and Macy’s weighing on retailers.

With first-quarter earn-

ings season largely complete, S&P 500 companies have mostly beaten analysts’ expectations, but profits are still estimated to have fallen 5.4 percent from a year ago, according to Thomson Reuters data.

The pan-European FTSEurofirst 300 index fell 0.5 per cent after two sessions of gains. Outdoor advertising group JC Decaux was among the worst performers after a weak outlook.

The dollar fell as investors booked profits on a day with no major US economic data.

“The dollar’s bias hasn’t meaningfully brightened given deep market scepticism in the Federal Reserve firing an interest rate hike in the near future,” said Joe Manimbo, senior market analyst at Western Union Business Solutions in Washington.

S/N

S/N 1

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2

4

3

5

4

6

5

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7

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10

9 10 11 12

11 12 13

13

Symbol NEIMETH Symbol NAHCO NEIMETH LAWUNION NAHCO WEMABANK LAWUNION AFRIPRUD WEMABANK UNILEVER AFRIPRUD UBA UNILEVER PRESCO UBA UCAP PRESCO NB UCAP UBN NB GUINNESS UBN NESTLE GUINNESS

2015-11-23 2015-11-24 Gainers for Equities Closing Price(N) Closing Price(N) 2015-11-23 2015-11-24 0.90 0.98 Closing Price(N) Closing Price(N) 3.64 3.82 0.90 0.98 0.54 0.56 3.64 3.82 0.92 0.95 0.54 0.56 2.50 2.58 0.92 0.95 36.38 37.02 2.50 2.58 3.65 3.71 36.38 37.02 30.50 31.00 3.65 3.71 1.31 1.32 30.50 31.00 115.00 115.72 1.31 1.32 5.70 5.73 115.00 115.72 121.84 122.00 5.70 5.73 807.00 808.00 121.84 122.00

NESTLE

807.00

12.77

MPR

12

Crude oil price

$42.41

% Change

0.08

0.18 0.08 0.02 0.18 0.03 0.02 0.08 0.03 0.64 0.08 0.06 0.64 0.50 0.06 0.01 0.50 0.72 0.01 0.03 0.72 0.16 0.03 1.00 0.16

8.89 % Change 4.95 8.89 3.70 4.95 3.26 3.70 3.20 3.26 1.76 3.20 1.64 1.76 1.64 1.64 0.76 1.64 0.63 0.76 0.53 0.63 0.13 0.53 0.12 0.13

1.00

Symbol

3 5 HONYFLOUR CCNN 4 6 MAYBAKER ETERNA 5 7 CCNN DIAMONDBNK

0.12

14 16 ACCESS TRANSCORP 15 17 CAP CONTINSURE

-0.17 -0.11 -0.32 -0.05

-9.09 -5.00 -5.17 -5.00

-0.11 -0.40 -0.05 -0.09

-5.00 -4.99 -5.00 -4.86

2.48 1.52 1.95 0.68

2.36 1.45 1.86 0.65

-0.12 -0.07 -0.09 -0.03

-4.84 -4.61 -4.62 -4.41

1.90 162.00 1.40 4.70

1.82 158.00 1.36 4.60

-0.08 -4.00 -0.04 -0.10

-4.21 -2.47 -2.86 -2.13

162.00 38.50 4.70 1.76

158.00 38.00 4.60 1.74

-4.00 -0.50 -0.10 -0.02

-2.47 -1.30 -2.13 -1.14

38.50 0.96 1.76 18.30

38.00 0.95 1.74 18.12

-0.50 -0.01 -0.02 -0.18

-1.30 -1.04 -1.14 -0.98

7.61 2.36 1.76 1.86

1.52 1.90 0.68 1.40

12 14 FIDELITYBK ACCESS 13 15 DANGCEM CAP

% Change

-0.17 -9.09 Loss(N)-0.32 % Change -5.17

2.09 7.61 0.95 1.76

8.01 2.48 1.85 1.95

9 11 LIVESTOCK AIRSERVICE 10 12 NEM FIDELITYBK 11 13 AIRSERVICE DANGCEM

Loss(N)

2.20 8.01 1.00 1.85

6 8 ETERNA FCMB 7 9 DIAMONDBNK LIVESTOCK 8 10 FCMB NEM

1.45 1.82 0.65 1.36

-0.40 -0.12 -0.09 -0.09

-0.07 -0.08 -0.03 -0.04

-4.99 -4.84 -4.86 -4.62

-4.61 -4.21 -4.41 -2.86

IKEJAHOTEL 17 19 CONTINSURE

3.26 0.96

3.23 0.95

-0.03 -0.01

-0.92 -1.04

WAPCO 18 20 STANBIC GUARANTY 19 21 IKEJAHOTEL

89.50 18.30 21.05 3.26

89.00 18.12 21.00 3.23

-0.50 -0.18 -0.05 -0.03

-0.56 -0.98 -0.24

20

89.50

WAPCO

Oil prices jumped after 21 Description GUARANTY Published by The Nigerian Stock Exchange © the US government reported 15.10 27-APR-2017 a big US crude inventory Published by The Nigerian Stock Exchange © 16.00 29-JUN-2019 draw for last week, surpris-

Inflation

Gain(N)

Gain(N)

808.00

2015-11-23 2015-11-24 Losers for Closing EquitiesPrice(N) Closing Price(N) 2015-11-23 1.87 2015-11-24 1.70 1 TIGERBRANDS S/N 2 Symbol Closing Price(N) OANDO 6.19Closing Price(N) 5.87 1 3 TIGERBRANDS 1.87 1.70 HONYFLOUR 2.20 2.09 2 4 OANDO 6.19 5.87 MAYBAKER 1.00 0.95 S/N

FGN Bonds

Rate (%)

US Dollar

$1

Losers for Equities

16 18 TRANSCORP STANBIC

ing analysts who had expected a build instead.

Source: NSE

21.05

Bid 89.00

Price

Offer-0.92 -0.50 -0.56

Yield

-0.05 Price

-0.24 Yield

9.95

21.00

Page

1 of

1.08

104.96

10.09

105.11

3.25

114.56

10.57

114.86

10.47

15.54 13-FEB-2020

3.87

112.10

11.56

112.40

11.47

16.39 27-JAN-2022

5.83

120.50

11.46

120.80

11.40

14.20 14-MAR-2024

7.95

109.35

12.32

109.65

12.26

12.50 22-JAN-2026

9.81

100.24

12.45

100.54

12.40

Page

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Closing Market Prices of March 30, 2016

Treasury Bills Maturity Date

Bid

Offer

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Rates (N)

30-Jun-16

8.15

8.32

WAUA

270

USD

196.98

22-Sep-16

8.71

9.10

EURO

214

16-Mar-17

9.31

10.22

CFA

0.32

NIBOR

YEN

1.64

Tenor

Rate (%)

SWISS FRANC

202

O/N

15.0000

POUNDS STERLING

293

1M

10.6864

3M

12.4601

SDR

273

6M

13.8466 CBN Clearing Rates of January 7, 2016

4

4

40

Thursday, May 12, 2016

National Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

Community Mirror

You also have a role to play as traditional rulers, because we are Let me again repeat what I have been saying that Goodluck Jonathan has no all under your rule. That is why I invited you because we need to personal agenda in convening this national conference. collaborate in finding a lasting solution to this problem.

49

Dare Akogun

H

onourable Minister of Health Prof. Isaac Adewole has disclosed that the country will soon have a national policy on food fortification that will serve as a model for the food regulatory industry.

Prof. Adewole disclosed this at a national consultative summit on food fortification tagged #NigeriaFutureFortified, organised by the National Agency for Foods Drugs Administration and Con-

Nigeria to have national policy on food fortification –Health minister trol, NAFDAC, in Lagos.

Adewole who was represented

by Abiola Akinbiseyin of the Ministry of Health noted that the aim of the national food policy is to enable the country have a uniform set of principles and guidelines that will serve as a model for

Group demands fulfillment of promised commuter buses from legislator

A

jao Estate Concerned Youth, has called on the member representing Oshodi/Isolo constituency 11 in the Lagos State House of Assembly, Sir Jude Emeka Idimogu, to fulfill his promise of 7-seater commuter buses to the people of the constituency.

According to the group, Idimogu last year, after motorcyclist were ban from plying the area, promised to help ameliorate the cost of transport fare in the area by providing 7-seater commuter buses that will operate at subsidized fare.

Disclosing this to Community Mirror, the President of the group Femi Akinsinde, said that they are aware that the honorable has already purchased over 40 of the promised buses since November last year, “but what we don’t understand is the reason why he is yet to release them as promised.”

He added that “some people

said some powers from All Progressives Congress, APC, are not happy that such venture is coming from a Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, member and a nonindigene, and so are doing everything possible to frustrate him from releasing the buses.

“All I will say is that let that never be true because if it is, we will never forgive APC as a party in this constituency. At this harsh economic reality, somebody with godly heart wants to soften the sufferings of his people and some powers that be are sitting upon it because of selfish political interest.”

In his reaction, Idimogu stated that in his efforts to liberate Oshodi/Isolo constituency 11 from suffering and to bring dividends of democracy to his people, that he indeed promised them 7-seater commuter buses to shuttle the area and has purchased over 30 of them.

MTN foundation to appreciate 200 community project nominators Francis Suberu

M

TN Foundation is set to appreciate the 200 nominators who recommended their various communities for intervention projects in the Phase 1 of the What Can We Do Together (WCWDT) initiative.

No fewer than 200 communities have benefited from donations of transformers, school furniture, boreholes and household items to select orphanages to improve lives.

It will be recalled that the MTN Foundation in September 2015 had called on the public to nominate their communities for projects that they felt very passionate about along the lines of providing basic amenities such as electricity, water, school furniture and donation of household items to

PRESIDENT GOODLUCK JONATHAN KADUNA STATE GOVERNOR, MUKHTAR RAMALAN YERO

orphanages. Over 36,000 nominations were received in Phase 1 and thereafter a verification exercise was conducted to determine the 200 communities that eventually benefitted from donations.

MTN Executive, Amina Oyagbola said, “We are indeed very grateful for the opportunity given us to serve people and touch lives through this unique programme.

We firmly believe that these initiatives will go a long way to positively impact the beneficiary communities in line with the Federal Government’s objectives to meet people have needs and achieve the Sustainable Development Goals (SDG) in the country.”

According to the Executive Secretary, MTN Foundation, Nonny Ugboma, “It has been very fulfilling to see the smiles and cheers of people in the various communities we visited.”

the national addition of essential minerals and vitamins for food.

“The policy will also enhance and develop the N and E framework for food fortification which is currently undergoing final review with the goal of coordinating and monitoring and evaluation activities of government and all relevant stakeholders involved in the implementation of the food fortification programme,” he added.

He equally called for increased awareness and public

enlightenment with regards for food fortification on the importance of consuming fortified foods.

Speaking earlier in her opening remarks Acting Director General of NAFDAC, Mrs Yetunde Oni, noted that in a bid to safeguard the health of the nation, NAFDAC in collaboration with partners has actively scaled-up and strengthened food fortification initiatives through engaging in activities that substantially improved knowledge,

Fish for sale on Broad Street, Lagos.

attitudes & practices on optimal nutrition especially as it relates to Micronutrient Deficiency Control (MNDC) as well as other related food regulatory activities.

Food fortification is the act of enhancing the quality of readily available and more affordable foods nutritionally by the addition of some vital minerals and vitamins needed by the body though in minute quantities, the absence of which causes severe diseases.

PHOTO: SAMUEL ADETIMEHIN

Ofada community appeals to Amosun over Fulani herdsmen incursion Francis Suberu

M

embers of the Ofada Community Development Committee, (CDC) comprising of about 75 duly registered Community Development Associations (CDAs) in Obafemi Owode Local Government area of Ogun State have called on Governor Ibikunle Amosun to call Fulani herdsmen in the area into order to avoid any possible clash between them and the herdsmen over daily destruction of their farmlands.

The call was made yesterday at a special Community Development Associations meeting hosted by Ibukun Oluwa Community Development Association to deliberate on issues bothering on rural community developments especially the recent menace of

the herdsmen in the area.

Chairman, Ofada Area Community Development Committee, Engr. Gbenga Adeleke noted that illegal activities of herdsmen in the area is becoming unbearable in the recent times, and urged the governor to as a matter of urgency address the issue before it gets out of hands.

He explained that on many occasions, cattle herdsmen have been caught brandishing sophisticated weapons while they are always battle ready to fight whoever that stops their castles from entering their farmlands, as they still held the belief that they have freedom to grass their animals anywhere. He alleged that some of them have involved in robbery cases and attack on innocent citizens Engr. Adeleke while urging the herdsmen in the area to al-

low mutual love and peaceful coexistence to prevail between them and his people warned that nobody has a monopoly of violence, noting there is more to benefit from government when there is peace and tranquility than violence. He urged them not to mistake their tolerance and accommodation of people from other tribes for act of cowardice or stupidity.

As the Chief Security Officer of the state, The CDC chairman called on Governor Amosun to urgently intervene before the matter would go out of hand.

In his own remarks, the Chief host and Chairman of Ibukun Oluwa CDA Pastor FadeyinOluwa Samuel urged the state government to prioritize rural security and electrification to make living in rural communities more attractive.

National Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

41

Thursday, May 12, 2016

World News I will fight definitely, because what I am advocating and defending is the democratic principle that governs political life in Brazil.

–BRAZIL’S PRESIDENT, DILMA ROUSSEFF

Car bombs rock Baghdad, dozens killed Afolabi Gambari

WITH AGENCY REPORT

A

t least 93 people were yesterday killed in three car bomb attacks in the Iraqi capital Baghdad, police and medics said.

The deadliest struck a market in the mainly Shia Muslim area of Sadr City during the morning rush hour, killing 64 people and wounding 87 others.

In the afternoon, two suicide bombers targeted police checkpoints in the northern district of Kadhimiya and in Jamia, in the west, leaving 29 dead.

ISIS has said it was behind all three attacks.

The Sunni jihadist group, which controls large swathes of northern and western Iraq, has frequently targeted Shia, whom it considers apostates.

The target of yesterday’s first bombing was the busy market in

Scene of yesterday’s bombings in Sadr City, Baghdad

Sadr City.

Police and witnesses said the explosives were hidden under fruit and vegetables loaded on a pick-up truck.

They said the driver disappeared after parking the vehicle in the market, shortly before the

massive blast turned the area into an inferno.

“It was such a thunderous explosion that jolted the ground,” a 45-year old grocer, Karim Salih, said, adding, “The force of the explosion threw me for meters away and I lost conscious-

WORLD BULLETIN ness for a few minutes.”

Many victims were women inside a beauty salon, including several brides who appeared to be getting ready for their weddings, while the bodies of two men believed to be grooms were found in an adjacent barber shop.

Sadr City, a huge, largely Shia suburb, has frequently been the target of bomb attacks

by Sunni extremists but this is one of the worst.

ISIS said one of its suicide bombers had carried out the attack, and that it was aimed at Shia militiamen, an account that seems to be at odds with reports from the scene, our correspondent adds.

Hours later, a suicide car bomb exploded outside a police checkpoint in Kadhimiya, a mostly Shia district that is the location of an important shrine, officials said.

Modi gets knocks for Somali comparison

I

ndian Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s comparison of southern Kerala state with Somalia has angered politicians and social media users.

Modi on Sunday said at an election rally that the infant mortality rate among the scheduled tribe community in Kerala is worse than Somalia.

Twitter users have responded with hashtag #PoMoneModi (Go Off Modi) and Chief Minister Oommen Chandy said Modi’s remarks were “baseless”.

The state will vote on 16 May.

Modi’s Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) has been trying to get a foothold in the state which has been traditionally ruled by either the Congress or a coalition of left parties.

But his recent statement to win Kerala’s voters seems to have backfired.

Somalia has one of the highest rates of child malnutrition and infant mortality in the world, while Kerala state has lowest infant mortality rates in India. Scheduled tribes are among India’s most underprivi-

leged citizens.

Chandy on Tuesday wrote a letter to Modi and sought an apology from him.

“You made statements that had nothing to do with reality and likened Kerala to Somalia.

This is unbecoming of a prime minister and has created a great deal of agony,” Chandy wrote.

Yesterday, #PoMoneModi became one of the top trending topics on Twitter with people using memes, cartoons and jokes to express their anger.

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi

Sexism: French minister admits ‘inappropriate behaviour’

F

rench Finance Minister Michel Sapin has apologised for what he calls inappropriate behaviour towards a journalist but has denied harassing her, amid a sexism row that has engulfed French politics.

French Finance Minister Michel Sapin

Sapin has rejected claims that he twanged the elastic on the woman’s underwear at a conference but admits remarking on her clothing and touching her back.

The political sexism scandal has already prompted one resignation.

Deputy Parliament Speaker Denis Baupin has himself denied several allegations.

Prosecutors launched an inquiry after eight of Baupin’s former Green Party colleagues said they were subjected to either sexual assault or lewd text messages. The former deputy speaker is suing for defamation.

But the revelations have touched a chord in France, and some 12, 000 have signed a petition calling for the mafia-like silence on the issue of sexual violence to be lifted, under the slogan “Levons l’omerta”.

Pressed to respond to the story by reporters on Tuesday, Sapin on two occasions rejected it outright, warning he would take every action necessary to defend himself against inaccurate and libellous allegations.

But late on Tuesday, the finance minister issued a

statement acknowledging that some sort of encounter happened and that he needed to set the record straight in light of the Baupin affair.

“During a visit in January 2015 to Davos, in the middle of 20 people, I made a comment to a female journalist about her clothing while placing my hand on her back,” Sapin said.

“There was no sexist or aggressive intent in my action, but the simple fact that I shocked the person in question shows that these words and actions were inappropriate, and I was and remain sorry,” he stressed.

Floods, landslides kill Ethiopians At least 50 people in Ethiopia have died in floods and landslides caused by heavy rain, a state-affiliated broadcaster reported yesterday.

The rainfall follows one of the worst droughts in more than 50 years, made worse by the El Nino phenomenon.

Administrators in the southern district of Wolaita said 41 people had died in landslides on Monday.

Nine other people drowned in floods in the south-eastern area of Bale that also killed hundreds of head of cattle.

The flooding in Bale, in the south of the Oromia region, has reportedly affected 559 hectares (1, 381 acres) of farmland too, washing away seeds.

Rescue efforts are under way to save people missing in the landslides, Wolaita Police Commissioner, Alemayehu Mamo, said adding that a major road and bridge had also been damaged in the SNNP region, hampering rescue efforts.

‘Benghazi accused’ spared death penalty The United States yesterday said that it will not seek the death penalty for Ahmed Abu Khattala, the Libyan Islamist charged over the 2012 attacks on the US consulate in Benghazi.

A court filing from the US Justice Department gave no explanation for the decision, which means Khattala now faces life imprisonment if convicted.

Four people were killed when militia stormed the consulate, including US ambassador Chris Stevens.

Khattala, who has denied involvement in the attacks, was captured by US special forces two years ago and then transferred to the US. Prosecutors alleged he was the ringleader of the attacks, which critics accused President Obama and then Secretary of State Hillary Clinton of not doing enough to prevent.

Yemen warriors set to swap prisoners The warring parties in Yemen are reported to have agreed to carry out a major prisoner swap within 20 days.

The deal between the government and the Houthi rebel movement is being seen as a breakthrough in weeks of peace talks that have achieved little until now.

Sources from both sides at the talks in Kuwait said they would each hand over half of the prisoners they held.

The rebel source said that hundreds of detainees would be involved.

More than 6, 200 people have been killed and 2.5 million others displaced since the conflict escalated in March 2015, when a Saudi-led multinational coalition launched a military campaign to defeat the rebels and allied security forces loyal to former President Ali Abdullah Saleh and drive them from the capital, Sanaa.

42 North

Thursday, May 12, 2016

National Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

Buhari’s fight against corruption has Nigerians’ backing –VC P riscill a D ennis MINNA

V

Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) and Department of Petroleum Resources ( DPR) auctioned petrol seized from black marketers in Maiduguri, yesterday

Fuel scarcity: DPR urges Kogi to set up refinery Wale Ibrahim LOKOJA

D

epartment of Petroleum Resources, DPR, has called on the Kogi government to take advantage of rivers Niger and Benue to establish a modular refinery to address fuel supply challenges in the state.

Operational Controller of DPR in Kogi, Mr Amos Jokodola, made the call on Wednesday while fielding questions from members of Kogi House of Assembly on implementation of official pump price in the state.

The controller was summoned through a motion of the House on May 3, to explain why petroleum products marketers

in the state had flagrantly refused to sell at the official pump price.

Jokodola noted that DPR was not concerned with supply of petroleum products, but the dispensing of commodities and regulation of prices.

He explained that the state required 100 trucks per day to service the 21 local government areas but was being supplied seven trucks per day, adding that there was a wide supply gap that needed to be addressed for the state to attain sufficiency.

According to him, the refinery could refine between 30 and 40 barrels of crude oil per day and meet the daily fuel requirements of the state as well as supply neighbour-

ing states aside generating employment opportunities.

Jokodola urged marketers in the state, particularly Dekina and Idah, to enter into Bulk Purchase agreement with Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation, NNPC, to accord them lifting rights, stressing, “If you are not on our database, nobody will allocate you fuel.”

He said only 30 trucks were allocated to the state in the last one week and urged the state to appeal to NNPC for more slots, adding that diversion of products by tanker drivers also constituted a major challenge.

But Speaker, Kogi House of Assembly, Umar

“I am known to be a principled person, so when the principles behind the formation of the party were abandoned midway, I had no option than to leave. And today, the suffering Nigerians are going through under APC has vindicated me,” he said.

While commenting on the conduct of the party’s congresses across the country, Sheriff said despite complaints from some state chapters of the party in the conduct of congresses, the party would come out as one united family.

He lauded the peaceful congresses conducted

in Taraba from ward, local government and state level, saying with the unity demonstrated by the party in the state, Taraba deserves commendation from the national headquarters.

“We will copy the unity demonstrated by Taraba chapter of the party as an example to conduct a peaceful national congress,” he assured.

Similarly, Taraba State PDP chairman, Victor Kona, yesterday declared that there was no vacancy in the Taraba Government House until 2023.

Kona who disclosed this while addressing party loyalists in Jalingo fol-

Imam, urged DPR to live up to its mandate in ensuring that filling stations in the state dispense fuel at the governmentapproved pump price of N86.50k.

Imam stated that the summons of the DPR controller was as a result of the penchant of marketers in the state to sell fuel above approved pump price as some sell between N130 and N200 per litre.

He urged NNPC to increase supply to the state, noting that Kogi is a border state where many states from the SouthSouth, South-East and South-West transit on daily basis with the attendant demand on fuel.

APC’s poor performance vindicates me –Sheriff Justin Tyopuusu JALINGO

N

ational Chairman of the Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, Senator Ali Modu Sheriff, yesterday said the hardship faced by Nigerians under President Muhammadu Buhari and All Progressive Congress; APC-led federal government has vindicated him.

Sheriff, who spoke to journalists at Jalingo Airport, said he was one of the pillars in the formation of APC but had to leave because the principles behind the party’s formation were abandoned along the way.

lowing his re-election as the party chairman in the state, said the governor had discharged his duties diligently to warrant reelection.

“It is no secret that our governor has performed well in rural electrification, road construction, water supply among others. Therefore, this exco is committed to delivering his Excellency, Darius Ishaku, in the 2019 governorship election,” he said.

Ishaku in his remarks commended the party for conducting a peaceful congress, and use the forum to call on people of state to live peacefully with one another.

ice Chancellor of Federal University of Technology, FUT Minna, Prof. Musbau Akanji, has said he fully supports the fight against corruption by the President Muhammadu Buhari-led administration.

According to him, corruption had taken deep root into the fabric of the nation, hence any one that has the interest of the country can only support the president’s effort in ridding the system of it.

Akanji threw his weight behind Buhari on the issue at the Personality Platform organised by Niger State Correspondent Chapel of the Nigeria Union of Journalists, NUJ, in Minna.

He stated, “I am with President Buhari 120% in the fight against cor-

ruption. It has eaten deep into the system; it is dragging us backwards and also destroying us.

“I know it is biting hard on some people; but of course, we have to suffer before we start enjoying. Anyone who has the betterment of Nigeria at heart will support Buhari’s drive.”

Against this backdrop, the vice chancellor told members of the chapel that his university has set up an anti-corruption unit.

According to him, constituting the unit would assist FUT Minna check activities in the institution, particularly in protecting students from fraudsters who roam about the school.

Akanji also revealed that henceforth, the university would hold its annual convocation every first day of February to commemorate its founder’s day.

Al-Makura rescues victims from burning vehicle

Igbawase Ukumba LAFIA

N

asarawa State governor, Umaru Tanko AlMakura, yesterday rescued occupants of a vehicle conveying cosmetics from Lagos to the northern part of the country when it went up in flames immediately after it crashed.

An eyewitness said the accident was as a result of a burst tire, which sent the vehicle crashing into a roadside ditch and burst into flames. Nothing substantial was recovered from the vehicle.

The governor, who was on his way from Abuja to Lafia, was forced to stop at the accident scene few kilometers to the headquarters of Nasarawa-Eggon local government area of the state.

However, moved by the plight of the victims, AlMakura directed his personal car to convey them to the hospital for medical treatment, even as he also donated N200,000 to take care of their medical expenses.

The governor took liberty of the situation to appeal to motorists across the country to always comply with traffic regulations, just as he urged authorities concerned in the control of traffic on the nation’s highways to always enforce laws that would prevent such occurrences.

Wor ried by the g ridlock created on the Akwanga-Lafia highway immediately after the accident, the gover nor personally took control of traf fic to help ease the traffic congestion on that highway.

Thursday, May 12, 2016

National Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

43

Sport

Sport is business and business is business. It’s nothing really new – Kid Cain would not have put his title on the line against Boy Abel if the money hadn’t been right

Olympics: ‘Disaster awaits Team Nigeria in Rio’

– Frank Keating

47

Joseph Yobo (left) at his last match for Nigeria against France during the 2014 World Cup

French embassy threatens Nigeria, Mali friendly in Paris Everest Onyewuchi

T

he Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) raised alarm yesterday that the Embassy of France in Abuja may scuttle the scheduled international friendly match between Mali and Nigeria in Paris later this month.

In a statement, the NFF said the French Embassy was threatening the match scheduled to hold in Paris on May 27 by its denial of entry visas to the only home-based player in the Super Eagles squad, two coaches of the national team and its administrative officials.

“Nigeria’s matches against Mali and Luxembourg are being threatened by denial of entry visa to the only home -based player, two coaches and

administrative officials of the three -time African champions,” the NFF said in the statement.

It appealed to the Embassy of France in Nigeria with regards to issuance of visas to members of its delegation ahead of two international friendly matches in Europe at the end of this month.

“We are appealing to the Embassy of France in Nigeria to reconsider its stance and issue visas to these officials.

They are going to Europe for very important assignments as the two matches are key to the preparation of the Super Eagles for future engagements,” NFF General Secretary, Dr. Mohammed Sanusi, added yesterday.

NFF protocol officials said yesterday that about 60 per

cent of the passports taken to the embassy on Friday, 29th April have been returned without visas.

The Super Eagles play Mali’s Les Aiglons in Rouen,

France on Friday, 27th May before engaging the National Team of Luxembourg in Luxembourg on Wednesday, 1st June.

ormer Super Eagles captain, Joseph Yobo, is pleased to have secured the commitment of major international players to take part in his testimonial game later this month in Port Harcourt.

Yobo, 35, has been in Europe visiting his old stomping grounds and speaking to players expected at the game and

is happy at the overwhelming response “It has been amazing. Almost everybody wants to come and play,” he said. “My only regret is that I can’t invite everybody.”

At Everton where he spent nearly a decade of his playing career, Yobo was warmly received by the entire club and presented to a stadium-wide

All arrangements for the two matches, including payments for stadia use, training facilities and hotel accommodation have been concluded by the organisers.

Testimonial: Yobo pleased with commitment of stars F

ovation by the fans at half time of their Premier League game against Bournemouth.

“That was an emotional moment for me. And I would like to thank Evertonians for the love.”

The Testimonial, on May 27, will be hosted by the Rivers State Government at the new Adokiye Amiesimaka Stadium

44

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Thursday, May 12, 2016

Distress call: Police get directive to comply with 10 minutes time response P olice, yesterday, reminded Divisional Police Officers, DPO, and Area Commanders to comply with the 10 minutes time response to any distress call within their commands.

Zone 2 police spokesman, Adebowale Lawal, said in Lagos that the reminder became necessary in view of the renewed vigour to fight crime.

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Hassan, issued the directive.

“The AIG has directed that all the State Commands, Area Commanders and DPO’s would be sanctioned if they could not

J

oint Admissions and Matriculation Board, JAMB, yesterday reiterated that it would not extend the period it had slated for the sales of forms for change of course or institution this year.

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The board’s Head of Media and Information, Dr Fabian Benjamin, said this in Lagos during a telephone interview.

He, therefore, advised candidates, who wish to change from one institu-

with other security agencies.

“This directive will enhance synergy with other security agencies in protecting lives and property,” he added.

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BARR. BONIFACE N. UGWU KSJ.

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ABDULLAHI: Formerly known and addressed as ABDULLAHI ISMAIL, now wish to be known and addressed as YUSUF AMINU. All former documents remain valid. General public take note.

CHANGE OF NAME

THE TRUSTEES ARE: 1. Dr. Achor Justin Uchenna —Chairman 2. Dr. Nicodemus Obayi — Secretary 3. Dr. Birinus Ezeala -Adikaibe 4. Mr. Oduburu Egwu Cletus 5. Mrs. Achor Chinyere Augusta THE AIMS AND OBJECTIVE ARE: 1. To save life 2. To promote public health 3. Health awareness campaign Any objection(s) to the registration should be forwarded to the Registrar-General, Corporate Affairs Commission, Plot 420, Tigris Crescent, Off Aguiyi Ironsi Street, PMB 198, Maitama, Abuja, within 28 days of this publication.

CHANGE OF NAME

I, formerly known as KOMOLAFE OLAJUMOKE MONICA, now wish to be known and addressed as MRS. ADEWOLE OLAJUMOKE MONICA. All former valid documents remain valid. General public take note.

I FORMERLY KNOWN AND ADDRESSED AS IYABO SALAMI SALAMOTA, NOW WISH TO BE KNOWN AND ADDRESSED AS SALAMI IYABO SALAMOTA. ALL FORMER DOCUMENTS REMAIN VALID. GENERAL PUBLIC TAKE NOTE.

Notice is hereby given to general public that the above named foundation has applied to the Corporate Affairs Commission (CAC) Abuja for registration under part “C” of the Companies and Allied Matters Act, 1990.

CHANGE OF NAME

Examination, UTME, on the all Computer Based Test, CBT, platform.

“We started the sales of these forms in March and it has been on ever since.

“We have given enough time to candidates, who

I formerly known as JOHNSON NGADA, now wish to be known and addressed as JOHNSON SOROMA. All former valid documents remain valid. General public take note.

I formerly known and addrressed as MISS ABIMBOLA AIRAT DAWODU now wish to be known and addressed as MRS. ABIMBOLA AIRAT DAWODUOLUSOLA. All former documents remain valid. The general public should take note.

NEURO-MIND OPTIMUS FOUNDATION

tion to another, and from one course to another, to do so before the Friday May 13 deadline.

No fewer than 1.6 million candidates participated in the 2016 Unified Tertiary Matriculation

I, formerly known as ODIAWA OLOKHIFA QUEENETH now wish to be known and addressed as MRS ONI OLOKHIFA QUEENETH. All former valid documents remain valid. General public please take note.

I formerly known and addrressed as ABDULLATIF RAJI ATONDA now wish to be known and addressed as RAJI ABDULLATEEF ATANDA. All former documents remain valid. The general public should take note.

UMEZ: I, formerly known and addressed as UMEZ PRINCEWILL BOBBY, now wish to be known, called and addressed as UMEZ BOBBY EMEKA. All former documents remain valid. General public and Authorities Concerned should please take note.

According to him, the directive was issued to ensure that the public is well policed.

Lawal noted that timely response would also strengthen collaboration

He said intelligence policing and discipline were essential to modern operations and called on the public to always provide the police with useful information without fear.

No extension on sale of change of course, institution forms, JAMB insists

I formerly known as MISS ALAO ANUOLUWAPO RACHEAL, now wish to be known, called and addressed as MRS. AREMU ANUOLUWAPO RACHEAL. All former documents remain valid.

General public take note.

I formerly known and addressed as BISOLA MUSILIU OGUNNOLU, now wish to be known and addressed as BISOLA RASHEED MUSILIU. All former documents remain valid. The general public should take note.

explain the reason for any delay.

“We must continue to uphold the ethics of the Nigerian Police as well as the rules and regulations,” the spokesman said.

CHANGE OF NAME

CHANGE OF NAME

CONFIRMATION OF NAME

desire to change their course or institution, to do so in order to avoid any rush.

“The sales of forms will, officially, be closed on Friday, May 13, and we do not anticipate any extension.

“Concerned candidates are, therefore, advised to cash-in on this opportunity to avoid any form of complaints,” he said.

CHANGE OF NAME FALEYIMU: Formerly known and addressed as FALEYIMU DORCAS OLAWANDE, now wish to be known and addressed as MRS. AFARIOGUN DORCAS OLAWANDE. All former documents remain valid. WEMA Bank Plc and the general public take note.

CHANGE OF NAME

OBI: I, formerly known and addressed as OBI FELIX CHUKWUDI, now wish to be known, called and addressed as LAWRENCE FELIX CHUKWUDI. All former documents remain valid. General public should please take note.

CORRECTION OF NAME

This is to notify the general public that my name was wrongly written in my BVN as YUSUF IYABO instead of YUSUF AMINAT LAWAL, All former documents remain valid. The general public should take note.

CORRECTION OF NAME

I formerly known and addressed as MISS EDET UDUAK now wish to be known and addressed as MRS. UGOCHUKWU UDUAK. All former documents remain valid. General public please take note.

OSENI LATI is one and same person known and addressed as OSENI LATI BIODUN. All former documents remain valid. The general public should take note.

This is to notify the public that my name was wrongly written as ILELABAYO AKIN JOSEPH instead of ILELABAYO AKINKUOWO OLORUNMODIMU, All former documents remain valid. The general public should take note.

CHANGE OF NAME

CHANGE OF NAME BALOGUN: I, formerly known, called and addressed as MISS BALOGUN SHAKIRAT YETUNDE, now wish to be known, called and addressed as MRS. YETUNDE BALOGUN KAYODE. All former documents remain valid.

General public and Concerned Authority should please take note.

Formerly known and addressed as MISS AGNES IPOKA SAMUEL, now wish to be known and addressed as AGNES OLUFUNMILAYO OYEFESO. All former documents remain valid.

General public take note.

I FORMERLY KNOWN AND ADDRESSED AS MISS AKASHORO LATIFAT OMOWUNMI, NOW WISH TO BE KNOWN AND ADDRESSED AS MRS. OREDOLA LATIFAT OMOWUNMI. ALL FORMER DOCUMENTS REMAIN VALID. GENERAL PUBLIC TAKE NOTE. CONFIRMATION OF NAME

NWIGWE TONY OBUMNEME, I am one and same person bearing NWIGWE OBUMNEME and NWIGWE TONY. Any of my documents bearing these name remain valid. All former documents remain valid. General public please take note.

PUBLIC NOTICE

BENUE GAMING AGENTS ASSOCIATION

This is to inform the general public that the above-named Association has applied to Corporate Affairs Commission for Registration under Part “C” of the Companies and Allied Matters Act 1990.

THE TRUSTEES ARE: 1. TERFA CHAGBA — CHAIRMAN 2. TAKEMA AKPENPUUN RENE — SECRETARY 3. SOLOMON FAVE — MEMBER 4. TERNA HANZE — MEMBER 5. TERTSEA FISHIM — MEMBER 6. TERLUMUN USA ­— MEMBER 7. SAMUEL ANNAGEENDE — MEMBER 8. MSUGHTER FANYAM SIMON — MEMBER

CHANGE OF NAME

Formerly known and addressed as OLADUNKE OLUWASEUN OLUWASEYI, now wish to be Known and addressed as ADENIJI OLUWASEUN OLUWASEYI. All former documents remain valid.

ECO BANK, GTbank and general public please take note.

CHANGE OF NAME

CHANGE OF NAME

I, formerly known and addressed as MISS OLADIMEJI OLASUMBO RUTH, now wish to be known and addressed as MRS. ADEBAYO OLASUMBO RUTH. All former documents remain valid. General public to please

PUBLIC NOTICE

FAITH BUILDING GOSPEL CHURCH

This is to inform the general public that the above named organization has applied to the Corporate Affairs Commission (CAC) for registration under PART C of the Companies and Allied Matters Act (CAMA) No. 1 of 1990.

THE 1.

2.

3.

4.

5.

TRUSTEES ARE: Rev. John O. America Mrs. Deborah America Mr. Henry Akpele Mrs. Victoria Ujiki ­ Mr. Ebere Efe Emmanuel

—General Overseer —Deputy General Overseer —Secretary General —Treasurer —Member

THE AIMS AND OBJECTIVE ARE: 1. To Foster unity and promote the interest of gaming agents.

2. To promote a better operational atmosphere amongst members within a defined locality and settle issues involving agents.

3. To assist gaming agents who have financial and security challenges.

4. To promote the spirit of oneliness within gaming agent and the welfare of members.

THE AIMS AND OBJECTIVES ARE: 1. To spread the gospel of our Lord Jesus Christ throughout the world and to win souls for Christ.

2. To evangelise through crusade, preaching, seminars, teaching, healing, love and do deliverances.

3. To evangelise through television, radio, prints, publication and literatures.

4. To do all other ancillary things that may be considered as complementary to the above aims and objectives and or beneficial for the spiritual and social growth of the gospel of our Lord Jesus Christ.

Any objection to the registration should be forwarded to the Registrar General, Corporate Affairs Commission, Plot 420, Tigris Crescent, off Aguiyi-Ironsi Street, Maitama, Abuja within 28 days of this publication.

Any objections to the registration should be forwarded to the Registrar General Corporate Affairs Commission, plot 420 Tigris crescent off Aguiyi Ironsi street, maitama, Abuja. Within 28 days of this Publication.

Signed:

TAKEMA AKPENPUUN RENE SECRETARY

Signed:

A. E. EFOLE ESQ. 10 GINUWA ROAD, WARRI, DELTA STATE.

Sports

46

Thursday, Thursday,March May 125,, 2015 2016

National Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

Benzema

UCL Final: Benzema’s return to boost Real K

arim Benzema is returning to full fitness at just the right time for Real Madrid, who will play Atletico Madrid in the Champions League final on May 28.

Coach Zinedine Zidane was re-

lieved to see the Frenchman come back from a hamstring problem and score in last Sunday’s 3-2 triumph over Valencia, a result that kept Real just a point behind Barcelona with one game to go in the race for the league title.

“He’s not been at 100 percent for

a while. We’ve seen that it wasn’t easy for him physically,” Zidane told Real’s website. “(Against Valencia) he coped with it well and without any problems. We’ve got two games left. He’s getting better every day and he’s not feeling any discomfort from his

ternational team mate Barzagli, 35, have helped Juve win five straight Serie A titles, having made 35 and 30 appearances respectively this season.

“I hope that my fantastic story with this club will go on and bring even further success,” Buffon told a news conference. “I’m immensely proud in the faith Juventus have placed in me once more.”

Barzagli added: “Even at this age, I still have room to improve and this is the best place for me to do so.”

Buffon indicated earlier this year that he planned to retire after the

2018 World Cup, which would be his sixth. He and Barzagli helped Italy win the 2006 World Cup. Buffon joined Juventus in 2001 and became captain in 2012 following Italy great Alessandro Del Piero’s move to Sydney FC. He has made 458 appearances for the club, known as ‘The Old Lady’ and won nine league titles, including two that were stripped from Juve over the Calciopoli corruption scandal.

The much-travelled Barzagli has made 150 appearances for the club after joining from Vfl Wolfsburg in 2011.

On Saturday, Juventus face 15th-placed Sampdoria in their last league game this season before being crowned champions.

Buffon, Barzagli extend Juve stay

Buffon

J

uventus goalkeeper, Gianluigi Buffon and defender Andrea Barzagli have extended their contracts with the Italian champions until 2018, they said on Wednesday.

Italy captain Buffon, 38, and in-

Chelsea terminate adidas kit deal

C

helsea have ended their sponsorship deal with Adidas six years early in order to enter a new contract with a rival kit manufacturer, the German sportswear giant announced on Wednesday.

The deal, reported to have been worth £300 million over 10 years, had been due to end on June 30, 2023, but will now conclude on the same date next year.

Chelsea’s 10-year contract with adidas, signed in June 2013, was the biggest shirt deal in Premier

League history.

It was surpassed a year later by the reported £750 million deal that Manchester United struck with Adidas, who also make the kits of Southampton, Sunderland, Swansea City and West Bromwich Albion.

Adidas have been making Chelsea’s kits since 2006. Chelsea have agreed to pay Adidas compensation.

“This mutual agreement on early termination of the agreement will allow Chelsea Football Club to enter a new equipment agreement

with a competitor of adidas AG,” adidas said in a statement.

“As compensation for the early termination of the contract, the adidas Group will receive a payment from Chelsea Football Club in 2017 that will already positively impact the Group’s net income this year.

“Adidas AG wishes to expressly thank Chelsea Football Club for their always professional and successful collaboration, which has included, among other successes, the time of their Uefa Champions League title in 2012 as well as two Premier League titles.”

last injury.”

Benzema has missed 15 games this season through injury but has still scored 28 goals in 34 games in all competitions -- close to his record of 31 goals in the 2011-12 campaign, the year Real last won La Liga.

The 28-year-old striker has

Welbeck ruled out again for 9 months

A

rsenal and England striker Danny Welbeck has been ruled out for nine months following knee surgery.

Welbeck, 25, injured his right knee in the Gunners’ 2-2 draw against Manchester City on Sunday and will miss this summer’s Euro 2016 tournament.

According to BBC Sport report, his club said tests had revealed “significant cartilage damage” but it is not the same injury which saw him miss seven months of this season.

Welbeck said on social media: “I will be back stronger!”

Arsenal manager Arsene Wenger had said he was “worried” about Welbeck after last Sunday’s

found the back of the net in 20 of his 34 appearances for Real in the 2015-16 campaign, scoring six more goals than last season. Cristiano Ronaldo is Real’s leading scorer in the league with 33 goals.

Benzema is expected to start Saturday’s league season finale at Deportivo La Coruña.

Welbeck

game at Etihad Stadium.

The former Manchester United player returned to action in February having been out since May 2015 with an injury to his left knee.

He had been expected to make Roy Hodgson’s 23-man squad for the European Championship in France after scoring five goals in 16 games for the Gunners this term.

Welbeck was England’s second-top goalscorer in Euro 2016 qualifying with six goals in five matches.

England will also be without Welbeck’s Arsenal team-mate Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain after the midfielder suffered his second knee injury of the season last week.

National Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

Sports

Thursday , May4,12, 2016 Thursday September 2014

47

Nigeria relay team may not laugh like this at the upcoming Rio 2016 Olympics

Olympics: ‘Disaster awaits Team Nigeria in Rio’

…Coach Porbeni fumes, explains why he quit PH camp Joel Ajayi Abuja

W

ith less than three months to the 2016 Olympic Games in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, Team Nigeria seems to be preparing to fail again.

This is despite assurances from the Federal Government through the Minister of Youth and Sports, Mr. Solomon Dalung that adequate support will be given to athletes that have already qualified for their events.

But national athletics coach, Seigha Porbeni, has predicted that Team Nigeria is bound to fail if nothing is done to improve their training programme.

Porbeni, who recently called it quits at the Port Harcourt camp where local athletes are camping, accused the Sports Ministry and Athletics Federation of Nigeria (AFN) of only making empty promises as regards preparing the athletes early enough.

According to him, “There is always the talk about early camping for Nigerian athletes after a major event, but our people always have this ‘bad habit’ of waiting for a few months before waking up from their slumber. That usual fire brigade attitude has not done us any favour in the past and I see disaster awaiting us in Rio Olympics.”

On why he dumped the athletes and quit camp, Porbeni told National Mirror on telephone, “I decided to quit the camp because things are falling apart and I can no longer bear it. This is our fifth

month in the camp in Port Harcourt and there has been nothing like camp allowance paid to us.

“This camp has athletes for the Rio Olympics and Poland 2016 like Divine Oduduru (100m, 200, and relay), Oghenefejiro Idamadudu (200m, 400m and 4x400m), Mercy Obong (100m and 200m) and Abolaji Omotayo (100m and 200m).

“Since 2012 till date, national coaches have been working like elephants but we feed and live like ants. We took the junior athletes to the World Championship in Ukraine and only $300 was given to each coach.

“In 2014 at the African Athletics Championship in Morocco we were

paid $2,000 after several months on arrival in Nigeria, but ‘our foreign coach,’ America’s Maurice Green was paid $30,000 for being with us for less than a month.”

Porbeni further disclosed, “I led a national team of four coaches to Samoa for the Youth Commonwealth Games last year and the team of just 13 athletes won 11 gold medals. We were shortchanged N180, 000 each till date, and never received a presidential handshake.

In that competition, we had to convert a boxer to a sprinter for one of the relay events and we won a medal. Nobody is asking how we did it in Samoa.

“We have been in camp in the

Ifeanyi Eduzor

Amina College, Kaduna whom they overwhelmed by 4915 points to emerge winners.

Speaking after the match, Nestle Branch Manager, South West, Seth Darko, reiterated that Nestle Milo Secondary School Basketball Championship has played a key role in producing many national and international basketball stars, promising that the company will not relent in its efforts at developing the game. “ Nestle through this competition has produced many players who are now playing in various basketball leagues in the world

High Performance Centre in UNIPORT since November 2015 without a dime and no provisions. No money to buy water and fruits for the athletes.

“Despite all thIS stress, I have been told that the AFN President, Solomon Ogba, wants to bring a foreign coach to handle our relay team for a whopping sum of $25,000. No local athlete that participated in the last World Indoor Championships in Portland, USA was paid allowances. As a matter of fact, their bags were thrown out of their hotel rooms in USA. Their US-based counterparts were fully paid.

“Also, Nigerian athletes who participated in all the Golden Leagues, Warri Relays/Grand Prix have not been paid their prizes and allowances. Are we truly Nigerians? Are we running a federation or dictatorship? Do we need an American to go to China to purchase our Olympic wears? Must we be foreign to be the best? If that is the case, then we also need a foreign Minister of Sports. There is too much confusion in Nigerian sports with less than four months to the Rio Olympics. Australia is launching their Olympics wears, yet Nigeria has no team in camp. It calls for urgent attention.”

Milo Basketball: Benue, FCT emerge central conference winners

G

overnment Secondary School, Karu, Abuja and Government Secondary School, Gboko, Benue State have emerged winners of the Boys and Girls category in the Central Conference of this year’s 18th National Milo Championship.

In an entertaining finals decided at the Indoor Sports Hall of University of Ilorin, Government Secondary School, Karu defeated UNILORIN Secondary School by 64- 22 points to qualify them for the National Finals in Asaba, Delta State later in the year while the girls from Gboko who started from the first quarter proved too strong for their opponents from Queen

The Central Conference winners

such as Nigeria, United States, Germany, Spain and China “This year, our dream is to inspire the students from about 9000 schools across the country to de-

velop their talent as well as support their drive to succeed and enable them enjoy the true achievement of reaching their personal best,” he concluded.

WORLD RECORD

Largest violin

N150

Vol. 06 No. 1368 Thursday, May 12, 2016

The largest violin is 4.27 m (14 ft) long, has a maximum width of 1.4 m (4.5 ft), made by the Vogtland masters of violin and bow making in Germany, and completed on June 14 2010.

Zuwaira Gambo: The North’s champion of the poor

T

he war on terror has not only shown the villainous extent some fellow Nigerians can go, it has also brought out the best of the Nigerian patriots. And so, my friends all, while we eulogise the officers and men of the Nigerian armed forces for their gallantry in the war on terror, we must also be mindful of the sterling roles of the civilian men and women who braved the odds to ensure that victims of terror, especially the vast majority of the internally displaced persons are catered for. One of such brave individuals is Hajiya Zuwaira Gambo, veteran journalist, philanthropist par excellence and true champion of the displaced people of the North East.

For those who have been far removed from the horrors of the theatre of war in the Northeast, the roles played by individuals like Zuwaira Gambo may not

MARKERTER?

T

he Super Eagles will be without CSKA Moscow striker, Aaron Samuel, for the upcoming international friendly matches against Mali and Luxembourg.

Samuel sustained a knee injury during the Russian Cup final and has been ruled out of action for a couple of months.

Guest Columnist

Sola

Ojewusi

be fully appreciated. Away from the epicenter of terrorist activity, one cannot fully grasp the very horror daily faced by the victims of terror. But for those who have had the misfortune of living their daily lives at the centre of Boko Haram atrocity and internecine insurgency, the dreg, the depth of suffering is real and when some individuals brave the odds to bring succor to them, you can best imagine the gratitude that swells from their souls. This inspired my devotion of this column today to the appreciation of the often unsung gallantry of women like Hajiya Zuwaira Gambo.

What is particularly soul lifting is Zuwaira’s daredevil humanitarian forays to the very centre of the counter-terrorism battle, seeking out the oppressed, harassed and utterly vulnerable women, children and men. At a time when most people for the sake of personal safety would rather be at home, Zuwaira could be found around the camps of the IDPs in Borno and other North Eastern states, using personal hard earned funds to provide essential relief goods for the people. I am sure this is one quality the Wife of the President, Hajiya Aisha Buhari saw when she recently appointed Zuwaira as the Secretary of the Wife of the President’s Committee on the Distribution of Donated Items (WIPCOMDI).

Zuwaira Gambo is not new to philanthropy. For the past 10 years, even long before the exigencies of the suffering of the people of the North East drew her

From childhood,

Zuwaira appeared to have been tailor-made for philanthropy closer home, she has been immersed in charity work. This informed her establishing, in 2010, a foundation called Hope Initiative for the Vulnerable and Marginalized (HIVAM). Hajiya Zuwaira has through the impressive programmes of the foundation, especially the intervention projects, brought succor to the lives of many and provided great breakthrough opportunity for many. Take for instance the Almajiri and beggars of Mpape, FCT who used to roam the streets begging for alms to enable them procure daily meals. Not only did Hajiya Zuwaira’s foundation build them a new home to discourage them from begging, provision was made for their daily upkeep even as they are encouraged to study or learn vocations.

From childhood, Zuwaira appeared to have been tailor-made for philanthropy. Professionally as a Mass Communication expert, Zuwaira has progressed from a desk editor, feature writer and columnist at Daily Times to being the Senior Special Assistant on Media to the Governor of Niger State. This media background and the extensive journeys it entailed must have equipped her to better understand the very essence of the human condition, how it is better handled elsewhere and how the sys-

tem that worked in other lands can best be applied to the Nigerian situation. On the go, Zuwaira is really an inspiration to watch.

Everywhere she goes, Zuwaira has never hesitated to draw attention to the appalling condition of the displaced people of the North East. That is why she has voiced total support of the push for the establishment of a North East Development Commission in the mould of the NDDC as a way of doing justice to the untold suffering and losses of the people of the North East due to the felt clutch of terror. Believing that nothing can be too much to compensate or assuage the suffering of the people of that region in the hands of terrorists, Zuwaira sees the establishment of the Commission as a great step forward in the process of healing the scars of war and terrorist atrocity. According to her, “I am really inspired by the action of the wife of the president, Hajiya Aisha Buhari in giving her full backing and voice to the creation of the North East Development Commission. I also encourage the great men and women of the National Assembly to ensure the passage of the bill.”

Away from giving a helping hand to the victims of terror, Hajiya Zuwaira still finds time for the less privileged in other towns and cities like Minna, Maiduguri and Kwaya Kusar, her home town where she set up vocational training centres for indigent women and youths.

Also, through her scholarship scheme, numerous indigent youths have been given education. Hundreds of students in tertiary institutions like Unimaid, ABU, and polytechnics in Kaduna Mubi, Damaturu, Bauchi etc, are in school today courtesy of Hajiya Zuwaira.

For making a great difference in spite of the odds, you cannot but doff your hat for Hajiya Zuwaira Gambo, philanthropic Amazon of Northern Nigeria.

Ojewusi wrote via solaojewusi@yahoo.com

Sport Extra

Friendlies: ‘Aaron Samuel out, no replacement’ He was named in the 26-man list for the two friendlies but will not make the trip for the games against Mali’s Les Aiglons and the Luxembourg national side.

No replacement has been announced for Samuel and according to the team’s media officer, Toyin

Ibitoye, the remaining players will make the trip.

“There won’t be any call-up to replace Aaron (Samuel) for the upcoming games against Mali and Luxembourg,” Ibitoye said during a live television programme, Sports Tonight, on Tuesday.

“The NFF has come out to say the remaining 25 players are okay for the two games,” supersport.com quoted him.

Samuel has scored three goals in 10 games for CSKA Moscow since his switch from Chinese Super League side, Guangzhou R&F.

Aaron

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