Sunday telegraph sunday, september 13, 2015 vol 2 no 564 binder1

Ban on 113 vessels

Don’t lift Nigerian oil, foreign shipping cartel }7 warns members

Human rights abuses

Buhari vows to punish errant }9 officers, soldiers

SUNDAY Sunday, SEPTEMBER 13, 2015 Vol. 2 No. 564

Sanctity of Truth

/newtelegraph

@newtelegraph1 www.newtelegraphonline.com

As TSA takes off

N150

Happiness Johnson

mass sack looms in banks }4

lWe’ll resist layoffs, say workers lAdopt creative ideas to stay afloat, experts advise banks

Oko Baba: Lagos enclave where beggars have a choice }6,7

Why I hate men who lie, cheat }23

Mecca tragedy

Two Nigerian pilgrims feared dead, three others injured }14

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SUNDAY SEPTEMBER 13, 2015, SUNDAY TELEGRAPH

Contents | 13.09.15 BODY & SOUL

Keen social responsibility A philantropic heart always finds an avenue to put smiles on the faces of the less priviledged. Gbolahan Ayantayo’s avenue is as president, Lions Club Ikeja

}24

POLITICS

Buharimania After several months of inactivity, various construction sites in the country are now bustling with activities

}15

BUSINESS

National interest Delisted from JP Morgan’s Government Bond Index for Emerging Markets (GBI-EM) or not, Nigeria will continue to take economic decisions that will impact positively on the lives of her citizens

}47

FAITH

Women convention Go and make a difference , Pastor Mercy Ezekiel charges women

}39

SPORT

‘Serena Lost’ While the world waited patiently to witness the ‘Serena Slam’ to celebrate Serena Williams’ monumental successes in tennis, it suddenly turned to ‘Serena Lost’

}53

MAGAZINE

Beggars colony In Okobaba camp, beggars do have a choice

}6

SUNDAY

Editorial

Eagles: Time to tame the big boys

M

anager Sunday Oliseh is not one to be reminded of the high level of indiscipline that ruined past Eagles coaches and players. Coming from a well known background of zero tolerance for unruly stars, compatriots expect a refined team in terms of manners and tactics from the ex- national team Skipper.

Our football has nosedived from grace to grass, it got so bad that the Eagles, three times African champions missed the last Nations Cupheld in Equatorial Guinea. More painful was the fact that Nigeria, defending champions, could not make it beyond the qualifiers from a group that included Sudan, Congo and South Africa.

The Eagles had also shown they lacked the necessary fighting spirit, the hallmark of our soccer, at the Brazil 2014 World Cup. While their countrymen and women were expecting the best, the players were more interested in dollars from the Presidency, relegating to the background an explosive Second round game with France.

The head was indeed rotten. Some team officials were also fingered in the greed that led to the team’s downfall and the heartbreak that suporters suffered. Some of the players who travelled to Brazil would ordinarily not make the First Eleven of a real Supr Eagles squad.Their inclusion was just to oil the mercantile interest of a few coaches.

The coming of Oliseh should therefore be good news. As a player, he never allowed himself to be intimidated by senior colleagues on or off the playing arena.As Skipper, he was known to have protected his players from some of the swashbuckling members of the Football Association who had litle to offer apart from the sad fact that they found themselves in soccer administration.

If as a player, Oliseh could not be cowed by his seniors and the administration, we also do not expect him to handle some of the so called or self imposed superstars who see playing for country as doing us all a huge favour, with kid gloves. They stand to gain by playing for the nation and that should be enough reason to honour the manager ’s invitation.

Therefore, we support the exclusion of Chelsea, England midfielder

John Mikel Obi from the bunch that will face Tanzania in a 2017 Nations Cup qaulifier. Oliseh said he had not heard from the player even after official and personal channels of communication had been applied.

Neither phone calls nor contact through Chelsea team mate ,Victor Moses could make Mikel answer call to national service.

Keeping away such a player is commendable,at least for now. Wearing the Green White Green jersey is a thing of honour. Players should not see it as a favour. No soccer star earns enough respect if he does not play for his country in Grade A games and competitions. Many are even willing to play with no strings attached.

At the moment, the Eagles cannot put on airs. While smaller countries have their stars moving from one big side to the other, many Nigerian players keep migrating from First rate to Second class sides. None of them has been able to pick attention from Barcelona, Bayern Munich or Manchester United. Mikel is off and on, depending on Jose Mourinho’s mood at Stamford Bridge. Moses is always moving from one loan’s deal to another.

Sanity must prevail as Oliseh begins the task of raising a formidable squad to actualise the dream of Millions of people who believe in the ability of a well groomed Eagles side to shake the world and make a mark outside the African continent.

That was what Clemens Westerhof did when he took over as Eagles Manager in 1989. After failing to qualify for the Italia ‘90 World Cup, the Dutchman went for new legs. The greenhorns were able to win Nations Cup silver in Algeria in 1990.When stars like Stephen Keshi, Peter Rufai and Samson Siasia read the handwriting on the wall, they had to wear new manners in order to attract the big Nertherlander ’s attention.

It took a few years for Oliseh to show his level and earn Westerhof’s respect. The Westerhof years, so far remain our best. This is why all must support Oliseh’s drive to make change happen, even if he is going to drop known faces.All Nigerians are saying is, give them a rejuvenated Super Eagles that can begin to win again.

DAILY TELEGRAPH PUBLISHING COMPANY LIMITED Managing Director/Editor-in-Chief

Funke Egbemode

Editor n Yemi Ajayi

Editor, Saturday n Laurence Ani Editor, Sunday n Emeka Madunagu

Deputy Editor, Sunday n Juliet Bumah

Bureau Chief, Brussels n Leo Cendrowicz

Bureau Chief, Washington DC n Marshall Comins

Editorial Coordinator, Europe n Sam Amsterdam

Ag. Bureau Chief, Abuja n Onwuka Nzeshi

Asst. Editor, News & Politics n Biyi Adegoroye

Business Development Manager n Taiwo Ahmed

Sales/Circulation Manager n Oyebanji Abiodun

Head, Graphics n Timothy Akinleye

Head, Admin. n Robinson Ezeh

SUNDAY TELEGRAPH SUNDAY 13 SEPTEMBER, 2015

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SUNDAY SEPTEMBER 13, 2015, SUNDAY TELEGRAPH

News

TSA: Mass sack looms in banks I

Paul Ogbuokiri

ndications emerged yesterday that banks in the country were planning to sack thousands of workers, as the September 15, 2015 date for the commencement of the Treasury Single Account drew nearer.

Already, at least one leading bank has reportedly sacked 1,200 workers while some others had penciled down others for retrenchment. Sources in the banking industry said the action followed the loss of huge funds as ministries and agencies of government had commenced the withdrawal of their deposits in commercial banks, in compliance with government’s directive.

As such, banks that had largely depended on public sector funds had to resort to cutting costs and pruning staff to cope with the loss of funds. News of the downsizing have already spread panic among bank workers as they worry about who would be laid off.

A source at one of the first generation banks in Lagos said retrenchment letters of over 1000 desk officers had been prepared. The source said the focus is on desk officers because, “if you lay off those who go out to look for deposits you will worsen the situation. So, we have to look at the survival of the bank first as well which is safer between sacking desk officers or those who bring deposits. So, we took the

Onitsha boils as Zik’s son is buried Okegwo Kelechukwu,

O Onitsha

nitsha boiled yesterday as the body of Chief Chukwuma Bamidele Azikiwe, the eldest son of the first president of Nigeria, late Dr. Nnamdi Azikiwe, was yesterday buried at Zik’s Inosi Onira retreat in Onitsha, Anambra State.

Two persons reportedly sustained some degrees of injury during a clash with policemen, a situation which almost marred the burial. Tension arose over the alleged refusal of the youths to dig his grave.

The late Chukwuma, who was aged 76, died on May 10, 2015. He was until his death the Owelle of Onitsha, a prestigious title in Onitsha Ado kingdom, which he inherited it from his late father.

In a brief sermon during a church service officiated by the former Anglican Archbishop Emeritus of Awka Diocese and Dean, Church of Nigeria, Anglican Communion, Most Rev. (Dr.) Maxwell Anikwenwa, described him as a man who lived a quiet life. Anikwenwa urged members of his family to emulate his good legacies while praying God to grant his soul eternal rest.

For his part, Anambra State Governor, Chief Willie Obiano, while commiserating with the Azikiwe family, recalled the days of Chukwuma’s father and his struggle for Nigerian independence. Represented by the Commissioner for Special Duties, Uzoamaka Onuegbu, the governor added that Nigeria would forever remain indebted to the late Zik’s

family.

Obiano said Anambra State would miss Chukwuma’s uncommon lifestyle of generosity. According to him, Chukwuma was a man who did not bother himself with earthly things, but was in love with culture and tradition.

The deceased’s brother, Ambassador Emeka Azikiwe, said Chukwuma lived a quiet life and never bothered himself about the acquisition of wealth.

However, there was no representative from the Federal Government and Onitsha community. The Obi of Onitsha, Igwe Alfred Achebe, and his cabinet were not at the burial as at the time of filling this report.

Also, President Muhammadu Buhari did not attend the event, contrary to an earlier announcement by the eldest man in Azikiwe’s family, Diokpa Nwamunamma Azikiwe, that he was being expected.

Meanwhile, a family source told Sunday Telegraph that Chukwuma’s refusal to perform his role as Owelle, according to Onitsha tradition and custom, may have been responsible for the feud between him and the people of his community.

Among dignitaries at the burial were the former National Chairman of the All Progressives Grand Alliance, Sir Victor Umeh; Chief Romy Ezeonwuka, proprietor of Rojenny Tourist Village, Oba in Idemili North Local Government Area, Anambra State; and erstwhile Chairman Police Service Commission, Chief Simon Okeke.

The late Chukwuma had two children - Ikechukwu and Chinwe.

safer option of letting desk officers go,” he said.

Reacting to the development, President of the National Union of Banks Insurance and Financial Institutions, Comrade Danjuma Musa, said the union would take “necessary actions” to defend members if it is confirmed that the banks were making them scapegoats of the TSA policy.

“We got the information during our meeting at the NLC headquarters on Thursday. We have decided to keep calm now until we confirm the report. If confirmed, we shall take all lawful actions to defend our members,” he said.

Meanwhile, experts in the financial services sector have said that there is no need for the banks to panic over the TSA policy, advising them to adopt creative ideas to remain afloat.

Managing Director of Financial Derivatives Limited, Mr. Bismark Rewane, while acknowledging some progress, by the current administration,

said the TSA would give government a proper picture of its revenues.

“The impact on the banks will be minimal, as they will continue to play a role in the new dispensation. But it calls for more creativity, because what the Single Treasury Account is talking about is not that the banks will no longer be collecting the revenues on behalf of government.

“The truth of the matter is that some of these deposits, especially fixed deposits, help the banks a lot. Now that there is a directive that government funds be withdrawn, on one hand it will ensure accountability, but on the other hand the banks will also have to adjust,” he said.

A development economist, Mr. Odilim Enwegbara, expressed fears over likely liquidity squeeze arising from the implementation of the TSA. This, he said, is borne out of the fact that with the Monetary Policy Rate at 13 per cent, Cash Reserve Ratio, CRR, at 20 per cent

and 75 per cent for private and public sector deposits respectively, the TSA will be tough for banks.

According to him, it is expected that the returns of lenders in the economy driven substantially by net interest margins will further be crippled by the TSA’s implementation because the single account which is supposed to unify and monitor incoming and outgoing government transactions for transparency and accountability will deny the banks funds belonging to MDAs. President, Institute of Chartered Accountants of Nigeria, Otunba Olufemi Deru, noted that it is a very tough time for banks, “but they will survive the policy. This is not the first time similar policies have been introduced in the country. All they need to do is to become proactive and focus on core banking because the policy does not mean that commercial banks will no longer handle government business.”

Immediate past president of ICAN, Chidi Ajaegbu, concurred with him,

saying there is no need for any panic measures.

“Though it is a difficult time, but I am confident Nigerian banks are strong enough to navigate through it,” he stated.

Meanwhile, some bank treasurers told Sunday Telegraph yesterday that the implementation of the TSA policy would adversely affect liquidity in the banking system and end up putting pressure on interest rates and availability of credit to the economy. According to them, the report on bank accounts with CBN has shown that as at beginning of this current quarter, their total public sector deposits amounted to N1.3 trillion.

However, additional net flows from the Federation Accounts Allocation Committee as at the end of last month (about N240 billion) as well as expected inflows by the end of this month may push the figure close to N2.2 trillion.

By the time the pullout is fully effected, banks will lose about N2 trillion deposits to CBN.

President, Muhammadu Buhari (right), presenting a sword to the graduating best cadet, F.A Tajudeen, at the combined passing out parade of cadets of 62 Regular Course and short Service Course 43 of the Nigerian Defence Academy (NDA), in Kaduna…yesterday

Apapa: Lagos, tanker drivers meet Tuesday Muritala Ayinla

L

agos State Government will on Tuesday meet the tanker drivers over their return to the port district of Apapa and indiscriminate parking.

Governor Akinwunmi Ambode had upon assumption of office, visited major traffic points in Apapa, to

get a firsthand experience of the perennial gridlock in the area. The governor, who had also expressed concern about the activities at the 57 tank farms in the area, said they constitute serious security risk to the state government.

He also set up a special task force to monitor indiscriminate parking of tankers and ensure free flow of traffic in

the district.

But dissatisfied with the return of the tankers to the roads, a source in the Governor’s Office, said the state government is considering a meeting with Apapa stake holders, especially tanker drivers and tank farm owners on the economic implications of their activities.

The source said, “Gover-

nor Ambode’s special task force will on Tuesday meet with them. The governor understands their economic importance in the state and he doesn’t want to pretend about it. So, it doesn’t want Lagosians to suffer by taking a harsh stance against the tanker drivers. I’m very sure the matter will be addressed amicably.”

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SUNDAY TELEGRAPH SUNDAY 13 SEPTEMBER, 2015

NIGERIA’S RESPONSE TO J.P. MORGAN’S ANNOUNCEMENT ON GBI-EM INDEX

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he attention of the Federal Ministry of Finance (FMF), Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN), and the Debt Management Office (DMO) has been drawn to today’s announcement of the decision by J. P. Morgan to phase out Nigeria from its Government Bond Index for Emerging Markets (GBI-EM). While we respect the right of the J.P. Morgan to make this decision, we would like to strongly disagree with the premise and conclusions upon which the decision rests.

It would be recalled that Nigeria was included in the index in October 2012, based on the existence of an active domestic market for FGN Bonds supported by a Two-Way Quote System, dedicated Market Makers and diverse investors. However, in January 2015, J.P. Morgan placed Nigeria on an Index Watch as a result of their concerns in the operations of our Foreign Exchange (FX) Market, namely: 1) lack of liquidity for transactions; 2) lack of transparency in the determination of the exchange rate; and 3) lack of a fully functional two-way FX Market.

In our continuous bid to strengthen the Nigerian financial market and enhance our status as a preferred destination for investors, we took measures to improve the market. Despite the fact that oil prices have fallen by nearly 60 percent in one year, which should expectedly reduce the amount of liquidity in the market, the CBN ensured that all genuine and effective demand were met, especially those from foreign investors. On transparency, the CBN mandated that all FX transactions were posted online in the Reuters Trading Platform so that all stakeholders can easily verify all transactions in the market. In addition, the Official FX Window at the CBN was closed to ensure a level-playing field in the pricing of foreign exchange.

It is important to note that a functional two-way FX market already exists in Nigeria. However, given the high propensity for speculation, round tripping, and rent-seeking in the market, it became imperative that participants are not allowed to simply trade currencies but are only in the market to fulfil genuine customer demands to pay for eligible imports and other transactions. In the light of this, we introduced an order-based, two-way FX market, which has resulted in the stability of the exchange rate in the interbank market over the past 7 months and largely eliminated speculators from the market.

Despite these positive outcomes, the J. P. Morgan would prefer that we remove this rule; even though it is obvious that doing so would lead to an indeterminate depreciation of the Naira. With dwindling oil prices, we believe that an order-based two-way market best serves Nigeria’s interest at the moment.

While we would continue to ensure that there is liquidity and transparency in the market, we would like to note that the market for FGN Bonds remains strong and active due primarily to the strength and diversity of the domestic investor base. For the avoidance of doubt, the Federal Government sees Nigeria and the interest of Nigerians as paramount. It will therefore only continue to take economic decisions that will impact positively in the lives of all Nigerians.

Ibrahim Mu’azu

Director, Corporate Communications, CBN For and on Behalf of the FMF, CBN, and DMO

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SUNDAY

The Sunday Magazine SUNDAY SEPTEMBER 13, 2015

Okobaba camp: Where beggars have choice

A

Paul Ogbuokiri and Amaka Umeh way from the Okobaba destitute camp in Ebute Meta, Lagos, several beggars struggle to get the attention of passersby to beg for alms. They compete for space with commercial motorcyclists and traders, creating a near state of chaos on Kano Street, also in Ebute Metta.

Wait a minute! The street was made popular nationally by the beggars who for several years took over the road and the adjoining Bornu Street, before they were relocated to the Okobaba destitute camp by the administration of Brig-Gen Buba Marwa (rtd) in the 1990s.

But Sarikin Ado (King) of Okobaba destitute camp told Sunday Telegraph that the beggars on Kano Street are not from the camp as full residents don’t go to the streets. Rather, they stay in the camp and await goodspirited Nigerians, who come from time to time with food, clothes and

even money for the inmates Alhaji Ado, who proudly showed our correspondents a photograph he took with a former governor of Lagos State, Asiwaju Bola Tinubu, and his wife, Senator Oluremi, said he does know the exact number of inmates, because apart from the main destitute there are many wives and children.

In this place, according to the secretary of the beggars colony, Mohammed Baba, there is no disorder and nobody moves out of the community to beg for alms outside the camp. They wait for charitable Nigerians to come to them with gifts.

Ado disclosed that there are three sections in the camp: those for the lepers, blind and crippled. He and his executives have been able to maintain sanity and decorum in the camp, ensuring that whatever is sent to the camp is shared equitably to the three sections.

Sunday Telegraph leant that the camp was originally build to accommodate about 300 inmates but the space meant

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SUNDAY TELEGRAPH, SUNDAY SEPTEMBER 13, 2015

The Sunday Foreign Johnchuks Onuanyim

I

ABUJA

ntertanko, a global body of oil vessels has warned its members to against taking any vessel on Nigeria’s list of banned oil tankers either into Nigeria or into its Exclusive Economic Zones . The advice came on the heels of a recent letter from the Nigeria National Petroleum Corporation (NNPC ) lifting a ban it earlier place on some 133 oil vessels.

In a statemnt issued by the organization, it advised its members who have ships on the banned list to exercise extreme caution with their whole fleet.

“Any member who decides to trade to Nigeria should follow the practical advice we have given and make use of the INTERTANKO Nigeria Trade Clause in their fixtures.NNPC has sent a follow up to its letter of 15 July 2015. We understand that this letter, dated 8 September 2015, has been sent to local terminal operators and oil and gas traders.

“While some are interpreting this latest letter as a lifting of the ban, we continue to advise against trading to Nigeria any ship on the banned list. The penalties for any alleged contraventions of Nigerian law by these ships are draconian including forfeiture of the ship and life imprisonment of the crew.

“This latest NNPC letter does represent something of a step change and may even suggest that all ships are now welcome in Nigeria provided a ‘letter of comfort’ is received. However, the language of the letter is vague and we do not believe it can be relied on by owners to clear the vessels on the banned list for trade to Nigeria,” the statement read.

Intertanko said tha though NNPC had indicated ’ that the ban has been lifted, there was a proviso that participation in the oil lifting was based on certain conditions. “ We will endeavour to clarify this point with NNPC but in the meantime we

Don’t lift Nigerian oil, shipping cartel warns vessels We stand by our earlier pronouncement, says NNPC For other vessels not on the list of banned ships, the letter appears to require the terminal operator/ shipper to submit a ‘letter of comfort’ to NNPC that the ship will not be used in any illegal activity believe that there is currently no mechanism whereby a ship can be removed from the list of banned ships or whereby an assurance can be given e.g. for a ship in the same ownership. Unless and until the ban is actually lifted, we continue to strongly advise that any vessel on the list of banned ships should not trade Nigeria or sail into Nigeria’s EEZ. Nigeria should also be excluded from trading limits.

“For other vessels not on the list of banned ships, the letter appears to require the terminal operator/shipper to submit a ‘letter of comfort’ to NNPC that the ship will not be used in any illegal activity. However it is not clear what that letter of comfort might say; neither is it clear whether an owner might also be required to provide ‘comfort’ to the Nigerian authorities and/or to the terminal operator that it will not engage in any illegal activity in Nigerian waters.

INTERTANKO’s letters to the various

Kachikwu Nigerian Authorities so far remain unanswered. INTERTANKO will follow up with NNPC to achieve absolute certainty whether or not a banned ship may now trade there. In addition we will continue to press the Nigerian Authorities for information on the alleged contraventions committed by Members’ banned ships,” the group said.

Meanwhile, the Group General Manager of the Group Public Affairs Division of the NNPC, Ohi Alegbe yesterday stated that the Commission still stood on its earlier

release made on the lifting of its ban on the 113 vessels.

The statement earlier issued by the NNPC reads thus: “The Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation, NNPC on Thursday announced the lifting of the embargo earlier placed on some 113 Vessels banning them from engaging in Crude Oil/Gas loading activities in any of the Terminals within Nigerian Territorial waters.

The NNPC in a release explained that the lifting of the ban is subject to the receipt of Letters of Comfort from all Terminal Operators, Oil Companies and Off-takers of Nigerian Oil and Gas as guarantee that nominated vessels, pending the outcome of detailed investigation, are unencumbered and would not be utilized for any illegal activity whatsoever.

“The Corporation noted that in view of the above, the Federal Government has approved the establishment of an InterAgency Committee made up of the Department of State Services, DSS, Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency, NIMASA, Nigerian Navy, Department of Petroleum Resources, DPR and the NNPC with the mandate to collect data and investigate the activities of the banned vessels within Nigerian territorial waters.``The Inter-Agency Committee will appraise the culpability or otherwise of each of the vessels in the time past and advise appropriately,’’ the NNPC stated.

Okobaba camp: Inside beggars’ enclave for one person is now occupied by over 10 people, even as many sleep in the open.

According to Ado, one single beggar in the camp has over 10 dependants including their grown up children, who live and marry among themselves. He said though their children assist the beggars, mainly because most of them have one physical challenge or the other, they still go to school at the Salvation Army Nursery and Primary School close to the camp.

“But we prefer millet because it is our best food. But we accept rice, beans and even garri. If it is money, it is better, because if will enable us to solve our other pressing problems, like attend to our health and that of our wives and children “Whatever is brought here for us is shared equitably among the three sections here.”

Alhaji Ado said that the state government’s support for the camp is minimal, except the fact that their children enjoy free education. To him, there is no other home, as he has been in the camp for 19 years, since it was built. He his, however, been in Lagos for 30 years.

“Public spirited individuals including organisations and non-governmental organisations from time to time donate food and goods to us. We are proud owners of a Toyota Hiace bus donated to us by Senator Oluremi Tinubu. Her husband also comes here just like other prominent politicians from the state.

“The NGOs bring doctors and medicine to us and treat our children. But we don’t enjoy much of government,”

Dominated the area for over 40 years. “And that is since I can remember he said.

A resident of Ebute Meta, Mr. Mudasiru Alabi, 67, recalled that when Marwa built the camp in the 1990s, had told the beggars at the time to stop roaming the streets and move to the facility.

Alabi explained that beggars had dominated the area for over 40 years.

“And that is since I can remember,” he said.

“You will find them around Kano Street because of its strategic location.

It links Oyingbo bus-stop to Apapa Road from Ebute Meta, which is a major route for people coming and leaving the area. So Marwa’s plan was to

give them a place where people could visit and give them whatever they intend to give them, but they have never stopped coming out to beg.”

The ranks of the inmates, who are predominantly from northern Nigeria, according to Ado, swells regularly.

“Many of them come with one plan to hit the streets and beg for alms and we accommodate those we can.

“We are already too many in the camp and people keep coming in.

When the inhabitants travel home (to the North), some of them also invite their relatives to join them in Lagos,”

he stated.

“Beggars know they can make money in Lagos because there are many rich people here. Also, many of our people are running away from the North because of the crisis there. Some have lost their belongings to the violence and some are afraid of the insecurity, so that is responsible for more destitute coming here. But I know that there are government spies here,” an inmate said.

He also gave the assurance that criminals or Boko Haram insurgents can never find refuge in the camp.

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SUNDAY SEPTEMBER 13, 2015, SUNDAY TELEGRAPH

News

Tuberculosis, major threat in Enugu, says Ugwuanyi

Dennis Agbo ENUGU

T

he Enugu State Government has said that Tuberculosis (TB) disease remain a public health threat to the men, women and children in the state, with a total number of 1, 542 cases recorded in the area by 2014.

Out of the number, 20 per cent of the cases were detected in Ogrute District Hospital of Igboeze-North Local Government Area of the state.

Enugu State Governor, Ifeanyi Ugwuanyi, made this known while commissioning a Chest Clinic for Tuberculosis and Leprosy, built, equipped and donated to the state by Star Deepwater Petroleum Lim-

ited, a Chevron Company and Agbami Joint Venture partners Famfa, Statoil, Petrobras and NNPC. The facility equipped with ultra-modern X-ray machine, male and female wards, laboratories, Gene Xpert machine, treatment rooms and other state of the art machines, is located inside Ogrute District Hospital.

Governor Ugwuanyi, represented by the state Commissioner for Health, Dr. Sam Ngwu, said the government was delighted at the donation.

Ugwuanyi noted that Nigeria ranks third in the world in terms of number of people with TB diseases with 590, 000 incident cases of TB in 2014.

Handing over the facility on behalf of Agbami partners, the Director DW

& PSCS, Deepwater Petroleum limited, Jeffrey Ewing, said that even though Agbami field is located 113 kilometres offshore Nigeria, it has a deep offshore community affairs engagement principles that views the entire country as Agbami community.

Represented by the company’s Manager, Policy, Government and Public affairs, Lagos, Mr. Sam Otuonye, Ewing noted that the Agbami partners has interventions that are adding value to Nigerians in the areas of education and health such as libraries, science laboratories, undergraduate scholarships, distributed throughout Nigeria.

“We have donated 23 chest clinics to different states of the federation

including the FCT, Abuja.

We have also implemented awareness programmes on HIV/AIDS, Malaria and other diseases in several communities across the six geopolitical zones in the country. Medications were also made available to the people of affected communities,” said Ewing.

Chairman of Igboeze North Local Government area, Hon. Celestine Ezeugwu, on behalf of the people of the local government council, conmmended both the state government and Agbami partners for locating the facility in their area.

He also and commended the speed with which the project was completed within 12 months while and promised to protect and make good use of the facility.

Fashola kicks as hackers invade Twitter account Muritala Ayinla

I

mmediate past governor of Lagos State, Mr Babatunde Fashola (SAN) yesterday denied calling on anyone to apply for government facilities or utilities and soft loans.

The former governor, who dissociated himself from strange posts on his Twitter account, described the call for application as tricks of Internet fraudsters.

Fashola, in a statement issued by his Special Adviser on Media, Mr. Hakeem Bello, yesterday drew the attention of members of the public to the antics of hackers, whom he said had compromised his Twitter account, @tundefashola, and posted four tweets in a foreign language.

He said he didn’t ask anyone to apply for public properties meant to benefit the public with no collateral, zero per cent interest rate and flexible terms or for soft loans as published in the Twitter account.

“The Twitter account must

have been compromised on Friday, as members of the public who follow the former governor, started calling to draw attention to the strange tweets in the early hours of Saturday.

“It would be recalled that Governor Fashola also recently dissociated himself from a Facebook scam, whereby some unscrupulous persons use his photographs and ascribe fictitious statements to him on fake Facebook accounts aimed at defrauding innocent people.

The call became necessary for the umpteenth time, the statement said then, in view of the activities of scammers who have been issuing out series of Facebook comments and information in his name with the intention of duping unsuspecting members of the public.

The statement added that the former governor had earlier, through Facebook, denied the fraudsters who had been urging unsuspecting people to apply for some government facilities or utilities.

NAFDAC arraigns trader for assaulting officials

T

L-R: Secretary, Ogun State Government, Mr. Taiwo Adeoluwa; Speaker, Ogun State House of Assembly, Mr. Suraj Adekunbi; Deputy Governor and celebrant, Chief Yetunde Onanuga; Ogun State Governor, Senator Ibikunle Amosun; Head of Service, Mrs. Modupe Adekunle and Permanent Secretary, Elder Sola Adeyemi, during the 55th birthday of Onanuga, in Abeokuta… at the weekend.

NASS needs synergy with executive, says Bukar Chukwu David Abuja

S

enator Mustapha Bukar, representing Katsina North Senatorial District, has called for a synergy between the National Assembly and the executive arm of government in the development of legislative agenda that would fast track the nation’s legislative processes and place the country on the path of progressive governance.

This was as he also appealed to Nigerians to be patient with the present administration, while it strived to bring the desired change that would usher in meaningful development at all facets of the system.

In an interview with Sunday Telegraph in Abuja, Sena-

tor Bukar noted that it was obvious that Nigerians expected immediate change as soon as the 2015 general elections were conducted and winners emerged, but appealed to the electorate for understating, saying that, though the change would come, it had to be gradual and systematic.

On the criticism that the National Assembly barely sat for two weeks in almost three months of its inauguration, the lawmaker argued that it was too early to conclude that the apex chamber did not perform well, stating that it was after one legislative year that a proper assessment of the Chamber could be done.

The politician also said that the legislative agenda, which the Senate has al-

ready set up a committee to articulate would help to give the legislators focus and direct the actions of the Upper Chamber in the next four years.

“The National Assembly has a number of days it must sit within any legislative year.

We are only three months into the system, and traditionally, this season is always open for vacation, during which normally, you get all that needs to be done to ensure that the National Assembly operates very effectively.

“So, it is not anything different from what has happened so far. But once we reach one legislative year and we have not done anything, then you can ask those questions. Even then, it is not the National Assembly that should judge itself; it should be Nigerians

that should judge the National Assembly.

“You remember President Buhari and the President of the Senate have both appealed to Nigerians to be patient with this administration. You know that we want this change like somebody will have a magic wand; the moment the elections were held, then we expected to see 100 per cent change. I can assure you, change will always come but it has to be gradual for it to be meaningful.

Senator Bukar, who is a member of the All Progressives Congress, APC, and first timer in the Senate, further observed that the high rate of youth unemployment in the country was a major reason why there was clamour for change amongst the citizenry.

he National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC) yesterday arraigned a trader, Biodun Ilesanmi before the Federal High Court, Lagos for willful obstruction of its officials who were at Mile 12 Market for inspection from carrying out their lawful duties.

According to the prosecution counsel, Umaru Shamaki, Ilesanmi prevented members of the Federal Task Force on Counterfeit, Fake Drugs and Unwholesome Processed Foods working in conjunction with NAFDAC from ascertaining the genuineness of food products sold in the market.

In the two-count charge, the accused, who owns and

operates Shops 28 and 29 in the popular Mile 12 market, allegedly committed the offence on September 3.

The second count said Ilesanmi did obstruct officers of NAFDAC in the course of their duties.

Shamaki, who signed the charge on behalf of the Attorney General of the Federation said the offence was in contravention of Section 2 (1)(a) and is punishable under 11 (2) of the Counterfeit and Fake Drugs and Unwholesome Processed Foods (Miscellaneous Provisions) Act Cap C34, Laws of the Federation of Nigeria, 2004. The offence also violates Section 25 of NAFDAC Act, Cap N1, Laws of the Federation of Nigeria, 2004.

Benue condemns enchroment on government land Cephas Iorhemen MAKURDI

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pecial Adviser to Governor Samuel Ortom of Benue State in the Bureau for Rural Development and Cooperatives, Tsenongo Abancha yesterday expressed worry over the massive encroachment on the landed property belonging to the bureau’s divisional offices in most of the 23 local government offices across the state.

Hon. Abancha who disclosed this after the inspection of rural projects and offices belonging to the bureau in Vandeikya, Ushongo, Konshisha, Ado, Okpokwu

and Ogbadibo local councils, described the invasion as unlawful and directed the surveyors from the Bureau of Land and Survey to provide him with the Divisional Offices Land plan in the affected local council areas to enable government reclaim the land.

He said that in Vandeikya Local Government Area, a large part of the Bureau’s land is taken over by Iortyer Nursery and Primary School, Dreams Wine Bar, Rains Harber Ventures and Sev-Av Foundations. A similar situation is also noticed in Okpokwu Local Government Area as well as many others visited.

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SUNDAY TELEGRAPH, SUNDAY SEPTEMBER 13, 2015

News

Rights abuses: Buhari vows to punish errant soldiers Anule Emmanuel Abuja

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resident Muhammadu Buhari yesterday warned members of the Armed Forces that his administration would not tolerate any form of human rights abuses against citizens.

The President stated this while addressing officers, troops and newly commissioned cadets at the Nigerian Defence Academy in Kaduna.

He said officers and men of the Nigerian military were not exempted from the rule of law as it applies to the Armed Forces as much as any other institution in the country.

Buhari stressed that any proven act of human rights violation by the armed forces would attract appropriate sanctions under his leader-

ship.

“I wish to remind you of the Federal Government’s commitment to overhaul the rules of engagement and improve operational and legal mechanisms so that disciplinary steps are taken against proven human rights violations by the armed forces.

“We are committed to a thorough investigation of recent and any future occurrences of human rights violations by elements of our Armed Forces,” he stated.

Amnesty International had recently accused the Nigerian military of human rights abuses.

“While I applaud the integrity and sterling record of the armed forces as an institution, this administration will insist on the rule of law, and deal with any proven cases of deviation from laws of armed conflict, including

human rights abuses.

“In operational conduct Nigerians expect our Armed Forces to keep law and order, and not to behave like bullies. Let me reiterate this administration’s commitment to due process, merit and total observance of the rule of law as central pillars of a prosperous and democratic society.

“Rule of law as an element of good governance applies to the Armed Forces as much as any institution in our country. It is therefore gratifying that all three Services have recently taken steps to emphasize strict adherence to rules in recruitment, promotions, procurement, project executions and civil-military relations,” he noted The event witnessed the passing out of Officer Cadets of the NDA’s 62 Regular Course and Short Service

Course 43.

While observing that security remains the most important challenge in his Administration’s ‘Change’ Programme, President Buhari said that the nation expects exemplary conduct and professionalism from officers and men of its armed forces at all times and in all situations.

“The objectives our fight against terrorism cannot be realised without a credible and effective military. You must avoid any behavior that will tarnish your honour and dignity as commissioned officers.

“Your commitment and loyalty to the armed forces and the nation must be total.

I urge you to take your roles in the on-going process of rebuilding our Armed Forces very seriously,” Buhari told the newly-commissioned officers.

Kogbara regains freedom after 12 days Emmanuel Masha Port Harcourt

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he abducted Vanguard columnist, Ms Donu Kogbara, has regained freedom after being held by kidnappers for 12 days, during which there was a massive outcry from the media and members of the public for her unconditional release.

She was released early Saturday morning, barely 48 hours after the police commissioner, told journalists that he was worried over the incident, and assured of her unconditional release.

It was unclear whether any ransom was paid to secure Kogbara’s release, but she was in good condition when she spoke in Port Harcourt.

She told a radio station that she was traumatized and shaken a bit, and could not fathom why she was targeted. According to her, the kidnappers said they were waging a war against the rich – those that have stolen money belonging to the people, and left them out.

Kogbara disclosed that she made them to understand she was not as important as they thought she was.

She later thanked Vanguard newspaper and members of the public for their concern.

She said:”I am happy to say that I have been released. I am alive despite all the things I have lost in the cause of the robbery that preceded the abduction.”

Kogbara denied the al-

legation that her abduction was politically motivated, though, adding that the bandits had grudges against some politicians in the state. “No, I don’t see any politician behind the mask. Though, I have to tell you that, these boys claimed that they had helped certain politicians win elections in the past,” she said.

Also speaking on the issue, the state Commissioner of Police, Mr. Musa Kimo, described Kogbara’s release as his happiest moment, adding that the command would not relent in the fight against criminals and their activities.

He said, “I am very happy today; my joy knows no bound because our dear sister, Donu Kogbara, is finally back to us. She has united with us safely and in good health. And, that is due to the mercy of God. To Him, we give all the glory.

“I want to thank the media for solidly, robustly, steadfastly, painstakingly and tirelessly following this abduction. I want to thank her family for their patience, steadfastness and faith in God; and, finally, she is back with us. We are, indeed, happy. Today is my greatest day, my greatest moment. I am happy.”

The Movement for the Survival of the Ogoni People (MOSOP) had strongly condemned the kidnapping of Kogbara, who is “another Ogoni person” and called for her speedy release.

Step-mother, daughter fight over post at Ebonyi Assembly L-R: Former Minister of National Planning, Dr. Shamsudeen Usman; Vice-President Yemi Osinbajo; Executive Director, TGI Group, Mr Farouk Gumel; Benue State Governor, Samuel Ortom and Bauchi State Governor, Mohammed Abubakar, at the Northern Re-Awakening Summit, in Abuja…yesterday.

PHOTO: NAN

Saraki, Ekweremadu, Dogara condemn Yola blast Chukwu David Abuja

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resident of the Senate, Senator Bukola Saraki, yesterday, expressed anguish over the bomb explosion that reportedly killed 14 Internally Displaced Persons (IDPs) and injured 13 others inside the Malkohi camp in Yola, Adamawa State.

Saraki also commiserated with the Saudi Arabian authorities and the Muslim Ummah over the construction crane that crashed into Mecca’s Grand Mosque, the Kabbah, killing at least 107 people, with scores injured, days before the commencement of this year’s hajj.

The President of the Senate in a statement from his Media Office condemned in strong terms the Yola blast, saying the inhuman act could only have been per-

petrated by sadists and evil people, who had seen their imminent defeat by the military forces.

He said, “My prayers go out to the victims of the attacks at the largest IDPs camp located in Yola. The IDPs in the North-east need our support now more than ever. The insurgents have resorted to cowardly methods because they are being routed by our military.

He called on the security agencies and the civilians across the country to increase their vigilance and awareness to prevent Boko Haram renegades from taking cover in their midst to carry out such dastardly acts in future.

Saraki further bemoaned the Saudi Arabian grand mosque tragedy and the attendant loss of lives and destruction coming two weeks to a period where

hundreds of thousands of Islamic faithfuls are expected to gather at the holy mosque for this year’s pilgrimage.

He called on the Saudi authorities and other relevant stakeholders to do all that was necessary to ensure the safety of citizens and pilgrims in the holy city before, during and after the hajj exercise.

Similarly, the Deputy President of the Senate, Senator Ike Ekweremadu also condemned in strong terms the Friday bombing of two Internally Displaced Persons (IDP) camps in Adamawa State.

Reacting to the incident, Ekweremadu said it was bad enough that hapless Nigerians were forced out and dislocated from their homes, but that it was even a worse act of man’s inhumanity to man for anyone to attack and kill them at their temporary shelters.

He said: “I just led a delegation of the Senate to visit the Adamawa IDP camps in August to see things for ourselves, to encourage IDPs, and to assure them that they were not alone in this hour of dire need.

Also, the Speaker of the House Representatives.

Hon. Yakubu Dogara, has condemned the bombing.

In a statement issued by his Special Adviser on Media and Public Affairs, Turaki Hassan, Dogara, said he was highly disturbed by the bombing of IDPs` camp describing it as “highest form of evil”.

“I condole with the families of the victims, government and people of Adamawa state over the sad incident. The six years of violence has brought about untold hardship on hapless Nigerians with thousands killed, millions displaced.” he said.

Uchenna Inya ABAKALIKI

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here was drama yesterday evening in Ebonyi State House of Assembly when two persons laid claim to management committee membership of a development centre of Ishielu local government area of the state when the assembly cleared last set of nominees.

Two persons; Loretta Igwe Nome and Henrietta Igwe Nome as well as all the nominees from Ishielu had appeared before the house for screening and confirmation.

Henrietta is the wife of the late state Chairman of the Peoples Democratic Party and former Commissioner for Youth and Sports while Loretta is her step daughter.

Stakeholders in their area had nominated one of the two persons - Henrietta and Loretta for the position of management committee members to compensate the family of the late Nome who died years ago.

But the two appeared before the house with all their relevant credentials making the Speaker of the Assembly, Hon. Ogbonna Nwifuru to place phone calls to some stakeholders of the area to name a particular person between the two who was actually nominated for the position.

The call seemed not to yield any positive result as the Nwifuru called the member representing the area in the Assembly, Hon. Julius Nwokpor to name the particular person nominated for the post as the two from same family cannot hold two positions.

Hon. Nwokpor told the house that Loretta, a young girl was the one nominated for the position according to the local government party chairman.

But Henrietta insisted she was the one recommended and joined Loretta who has already presented her credentials before the house for the screening to present her own certificates which increased the drama.

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Yusuph Olaniyonu

SUNDAY, SEPTEMBER 13, 2015 SUNDAY TELEGRAPH

OPINION 100 days of Eighth Senate

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sing Visitation as Problem-Solving Tool: Let me quickly do a definition of terms here. My meaning of visitation is the few visits that the Senate delegations had made outside their chambers as a means to further advance the interest of Nigeria. On Wednesday, September 16, 2015, it will be 100 days since the Eighth Senate was inaugurated based on the proclamation by President Muhammadu Buhari.

The upper legislative house started on a shaky ground as the issue of election of leaders became mired in needless controversy. It was obviously being fuelled from outside the parliament. Today, the leadership headed by Senator Abubakar Bukola Saraki has shaken off the initial setback and demonstrated the ability to be the best the country has ever produced.

While there are so many areas through which one can objectively evaluate the performance of the Senate in 100 days, I have chosen to limit myself to the three visits made by the Legislative house outside Abuja as well as the symbolism and significance of these visits as the premise on which to judge how well it has performed.

On August 3, the Senate decided to fulfil its earlier promise to send a delegation to Maiduguri, the Borno State capital and centre of the insurgency waged against the Nigerian nation by the Boko Haram group. The decision to send a delegation to Borno State came after an elaborate debate on insecurity in the North-East. During that debate, the Senate President allowed all Senators who wanted to contribute to the motion moved by Senator George Sekibo representing Rivers State.

There were chilling reports from personal experiences, losses and deprivations rendered by senators from the affected geo-political zones. The tales of woe narrated by the senators made the chambers to resolve to send a delegation to Maiduguri for an on-the-spot assessment of the security situation and the plight of the residents.

Akeem Soboyede

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Apart from the Senate President, other members of the Delegation include Senate Leader, Ali Ndume; Deputy Chief Whip, Francis Alimikhena; Danjuma Goje; Bukar Abba Ibrahim; Hassan Mohammed; Abubakar Kyari and the Chief of Staff to the Senate President, Isa Galaudu.

During the visit, Saraki assured the people that the entire country was solidly behind them in this trying period. He said: “We have come to feel your pains, to hear what you have been going through first-hand. To seek to understand the severe bloody struggle you have had to endure and go through emotionally, physically, financially and in many other ways which can hardly be put in words.”

The Senate delegation, in company with Governor Kashim Shettima, paid homage to the Shehu of Borno, Alhaji Abubakar Ibn Umar Garbai El-Khanemi, where they assured the people that the Senate would do all in its power to ensure life returns to the state and the zone. The team later visited the Internally Displaced Persons (IDPs) camps located at Umaru Shehu College of Education in Maiduguri and Government College, Maiduguri, with over 4000 displaced persons respectively.

They also visited the Dalori IDPs Camp housing over 18,000 displaced persons from Bama Local Government Area of the state.

The Senate President said the resolution of the Senate to send a high powered delegation led by him was a demonstration of its commitment to find a lasting solution to the plight of people in the North-East. “We have come to sit with you and listen to you and hopefully come together on solutions that will significantly change your situation for the better. We believe that after this visit your situation will not be the same again. The mission of our visit is simple; we have come to bring you hope and to let you know that the Nigerian Senate has not abandoned you and real change is coming. We are determined to end this carnage, this senseless and sorrowful war. We are determined to defeat Boko Ha-

ram. The Nigerian Senate and indeed the National Assembly is willing to support you and your families to ensure that your lives return to normal. We could not in good conscience talk to you from Abuja. No. This new Senate would rather come here and this is why we are here,” he stated.

While welcoming the Senate President and his team, Governor Shettima who spoke in an emotion-laden voice stated that the visit was historic and unprecedented.

The governor further observed that there are 26 IDP camps in Maiduguri aside those in Cameroon, Chad, Niger and other states in the country. He urged the National Assembly to pass a bill that will create the North-East Development Commission to handle the issue of reconstruction, rehabilitation and resettlement of the IDPs and provide employment for the youths as was done in the Niger Delta.

The following day after this visit by the Sarakiled delegation, his deputy, Senator Ike Ekweremadu, also led another delegation to Adamawa State, which is another epicentre of the Boko Haram war. The Senate delegation further gave hope to the people. Through the visits, the senators empathised with the residents and encouraged the political, military and traditional leadership so that they can hold on against the marauders. After the visit, Saraki and his colleagues have almost become radicalised on the need to end this insurgency as fast as possible.

Today, the Senate has become the evangelist of the gospel of peace in the North-East. Every opportunity the Senate President has, he uses to canvass international support for rebuilding, resettlement and rehabilitation of the people and environment in the North-East.

The Senate President has, during his numerous meetings with envoys of foreign countries who pay courtesy visits to his office, called for support to enable Nigeria to end the Boko Haram crisis.

Between August 30 and September 2, the Senate made another visitation. This time to New York, United States, where a delega-

tion led by the Senate President attended the fourth United Nations International Conference for Heads of Parliaments. The three-man delegation consisting of Senators Saraki, Dino Melaye and Andy Uba, during the bilateral meetings with delegations from France, Germany and the United Kingdom, continuously harped on the need for international support for Nigeria, both to end the carnage in the North-East and resettle the people.

Saraki further used the UN platform while addressing the general conference to urge that the insecurity issue be taken as a global crisis just like similar occurrences in other parts of the world. His message resonated well with the world gathering, particularly since he had earlier utilised a meeting of select parliamentary leaders with the UN Secretary-geenral, Ban Ki Moon, to canvass that Nigeria be supported to quell the Boko Haram insurgency.

The same delegation also at the various bilateral meetings lobbied for international support for our economic revival plan. They were able to convince their colleagues in other countries on the ongoing genuine attempts to rebuild Nigerian economy as represented by the policies and programmes of the Buhari administration and the solid support the legislature is giving the executive.

With the New York visit, the Senate convinced the international community that all arms of government in Nigeria are united in the objective of fighting the war against insecurity, economic problems and youth unemployment.

If in 100 days, the Senate has reassured the people that the current efforts to end the insecurity in the North-East has full legislative support, joined the executive in mounting international campaign to support these efforts and utilised all instruments like legislations, oversights and advocacy to further serve the Nigerian interests, then this Eighth Senate has started well. I have no doubt that it will do better than many Nigerians ever imagined.

•Olaniyonu is Special Adviser (Media) to the Senate President

Ambode: On the march early

agos State has had 14 chief executives since its creation in May 1967. Some of those definitely made their mark in governing the state. Many more just arguably so. Most, especially the military governors, registered barely a blip on the good governance radar.

One individual who appears intent on making an enduring impact as governor of Lagos is Akinwunmi Ambode, Lagos State’s 14th Chief Executive, and the fifth among these democratically-elected into the office.

Ambode literally hit the ground running on the issue of protecting lives and property in the state that is unarguably Nigeria’s economic nerve-center and the most populous.

The latter certainly make the protection of lives and infrastructure a policy imperative in Lagos. Barely weeks after his inauguration as governor, at a dinner organised by the Lagos State Security Trust Fund (LSSTF), Ambode unveiled plans to strengthen the existing state anti-robbery squad, the Rapid Response Squad (RRS), as well as create an integrated security and emergency control platform. Donations totaling over N1 billion were received or pledged at this event, by corporate organisations in the state as well as security-conscious individuals.

Ambode has also focused on dispelling the myth of Lagos as a metropolis perpetually choked by slow-moving traffic, or the ubiquitous ‘go-slows.’ Since coming into office, he has visited many areas of Lagos prone to

traffic congestion, and announced initiatives aimed at reversing the trend. One of such has been directed at resolving the near-perpetual traffic gridlock that has made the Apapa area of the state a dreaded destination for motorists. The main culprits in this regard are the petrol tanker drivers who swarm the area’s 57 tank farms at all periods of the day to load their products. Perpetual traffic quagmires have been the long-running legacy of this ‘loading’ activity.

Soon after taking office, Ambode took efforts to ameliorate the scourge by establishing a task force to ensure drivers waiting to load petrol did not park their vehicles indiscriminately along the roads to the tank farms, thus impeding traffic. He also emphasised that the Lagos Road Traffic Law that prohibited such activity on the part of the drivers in the first place would be enforced to the letter.

Ambode has not restricted his transportation initiatives only to the Apapa area of the state. Within the first few weeks of being sworn into office, the governor embarked on inspection visits to many parts of the state, primarily to ascertain the state of the roads in those locations. Areas toured include those in the Ipaja, Mosan-Okunola, Oshodi-Isolo, Ikotun-Ejigbo and Somolu axis of the state.

During his tour, the government also announced plans to rehabilitate roads that were in a deplorable state in those areas.

Aside from infrastructural development, Ambode has also brought his impressive life and work experiences to bear in finetuning the levers of government in Lagos, and

positioning the state for enduring and exponential growth. It is well-known that the governor retired as a permanent secretary in the Lagos State civil service, after 27 years serving the state. It was therefore no surprise that shortly on assumption of office last May 29, the governor met with Permanent Secretaries in the state, wherein he revealed his plan to reposition the civil service, in order to make it more efficient and service-driven.

Such a vision, according to Ambode, would involve the streamlining of some ministries, departments and agencies to cut the cost of governance in the state.

Ambode subsequently announced his decision to realign the Ministry of Rural Development, Parastatals Monitoring Office as well as Political and Legislative Powers Bureau.

He also scrapped the Office of the Special Adviser on Taxation and Revenue in the Debt Management Office, while merging the Office of Works with the Office of Infrastructure, among other significant policy initiatives.

Not everyone in Lagos has exactly lauded Ambode’s exemplary policies in these first 100 days of his administration. Certain critics particularly those in the opposition People’s Democratic Party (PDP) have criticised what they see as the governor’s desire to borrow his way through the fiscal challenges of a vast metropolis like Lagos. They cite his alleged move to obtain a N3.94 billion loan from the World Bank. Beyond the vagueness of such claims, such critics clearly underrate Ambode’s capacity for fiscal discipline and management of resources. They are clearly

not aware that while Ambode served as a senior civil servant in Lagos managing the State Treasury Office (STO), he revolutionised how the state’s finances were raised, budgeted, managed and planned, all of which led to immense increases in the state’s receipts profile.

The critics, certainly, cannot deplore the humanitarian face and demeanour already deployed by the Ambode government in Lagos.

The governor has used the instrumentality of his office to bring smiles of joy to individuals across the state. From the victims of horrific petrol tanker explosions to state residents in dire need of medical interventions, especially outside the shores of the country, Governor Ambode has not only brought succour to the masses, he has established the necessary machinery, through the deft deployment of resources, to ensure long term solutions to similar problems when they occur in the future.

Ambode has also brought long-sought relief to retirees of various parastatals and agencies of the state; this past August, the governor approved the release of N11billion to offset arrears owed to these former civil servants since 2010, not only for those employed directed by the state government, but those employed by local governments and parastatals within the state.

With policies like this, Ambode will most likely achieve his unstated aim of being a former chief executive of Lagos that remains dear to the people’s heart, long after leaving office.

•Akeem Soboyede, a public affairs commentator sent in the piece from Abuja

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SUNDAY TELEGRAPH SUNDAY, SEPTEMBER 13, 2015

OPINION Bayelsa: Time for the real change Jack Kalio

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or an avid follower of Bayelsa State politics, the stakes this time, as they unfold, are higher than initially imagined. This is even as the desired efforts needed to walk the path to the Creek Haven (Government House) are unpretentiously enormous. There is a feeling that something unusual and enormous is about to happen.

The real change is about to be inaugurated.

But that would depend on what happens on September 19.

The reasons are not far-fetched. For one, Bayelsa is not just like any other state conducting a governorship election. Here, the intricacies that usually trail every important political event or such a development are such that all eyes are focused on the state. Don’t forget, Bayelsa is an oil rich state. Bayelsa was the stronghold of militancy a few years ago until the coming of the Presidential Amnesty Programme. So, any election is Bayelsa state goes beyond the ordinary.

For the next election, perhaps, what makes the event more likely to be hyperinteresting could be bundled in a pack of alluring scenarios; all having their roots in two slogans: continuity and change.

Interestingly too, the fact that the immediate past president, Dr. Goodluck Ebele Jonathan, hails from the state reinforces or heightens concerns of a possible political turbulence.

Succinctly, the need to ensure that the man who narrowly lost the presidential election as candidate of the now decimated Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) does not suffer another ‘humiliation at home’ is not unlikely to be a cardinal focus of the leadership of the PDP both in the state and the national level.

Expectedly, therefore, ferocious campaign issues, such that will brand the ‘rampaging’ All Progressives Congress (APC) as an antiIjaw political machinery are on the verge of

being played up, if not already spreading in the state and beyond. But such an unfortunate development will only happen if a particular candidate of the APC with a popular appeal wins the APC primaries.

If the result of the primaries favours an unpopular candidate, then PDP will have nothing to worry about.

Although campaign issues in today’s Nigerian politics are as acceptable as they are authored, however naïve, the above scenario is already being galvanised by the PDP with the potential of reaping a twin effect. One: it could be potently deployed with a higher degree of advantageous results for the PDP. Secondly, the parochial deployment of anti-Ijaw campaign by the PDP could be embossed with anger and vociferous, if not voluble counter-claims that are waiting in the wings to dwarf the expected positive effects.

Nonetheless, such hopes and aspirations are only possible, and easily achievable if there are no firm moves by the APC aimed at displaying political sagacity and dexterity under the circumstances. Put simply, this is the time for the APC leadership to be deep in thoughts, sober and introspective in decisions, be firmly courageous in distilling political intelligence and above all, get the best for the party in terms of who emerges as its candidate.

To think that, like in the days of former President Olusegun Obasanjo’s 2003 ‘carry go’ in the South-West, whoever emerges as candidate of the APC could defeat the incumbent, Governor Henry Seriake Dickson, exhumes political naivety and lack of grasp of the dynamics of Bayelsa politics.

The governor of course, is already the presumed candidate of the PDP despite some oppositions arising within the house.

In other words, while the need to spread and deepen the CHANGE message to all nooks and crannies of the country becomes a necessity of sort, the means to achieving such objective carries very luring temptations. Whoever the APC leadership prefers

must be someone that can keep the party afloat under the circumstances the party finds itself in the state. He must be someone who can win the state for the party amidst the prevailing scenario. This should be the guiding principle of APC leaders.

In this regard, emphasis must be on one index - CHANGE. Can change be achieved with a former and current occupants of the Government House in the race? Or is change easily achievable with a fresh, deeply-rooted and consummate personality in the APC to run against Dickson?

These questions appear ignorable on the surface. However, even the apolitical mind in the state wants change, change and change and not mere transfer of reins of political power. If truly Bayelsans want change, could change mean to them, a contest between the immediate-past governor, Chief Timipre Sylva, and his albatross, the incumbent? The answer can only be a naked conjecture of ‘let Dickson continue’ in the context of the above scenario.

It is in this regard that aside the APC leadership at the national level, the party’s delegates to the governorship primaries are required to be conscionable in the exercise of their rights if they wish to enjoy the voiced change. In effect, the fate of APC hangs on the tripartite trivet of change, change and complete change. Victory or defeat for the party or otherwise shall be decided on the day of the APC primaries, simple: September 19.

If at all, the APC by now knows that people make parties and not the other way round.

Yes, Sylva weathered the storm, was resilient and resolute in joining the APC when the party came into being. But the big question is - what was the state of the party in Bayelsa State before August 15 this year? Is there any truth that the defection of political heavyweights from the PDP to the APC on that date added a quantum of quality content?

Yes, of course. And who caused the defection? Certainly, it was not Sylva.

The point to note therefore is this - could

the APC leadership possibly consider the Benue option and field Chief Timi Alaibe as its candidate for the forth-coming governorship election? It sounds revolutionary but certain political steps and decisions are required when the extra-ordinary circumstances pose challenges to a system, especially one that has no formidable third force in place.

Perhaps, this may have informed the decision of Senator John Kojo Brambaifa to lead a group of Bayelsa people to purchase the Expression of Interest and Governorship for Alaibe, the former Managing Director of the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC). On that occasion, Brambafa said; “We have decided to buy the form for him and present him to our people as the most favourable candidate because he will be the best to take the mantle of leadership in Bayelsa.”

On the chances of Alaibe who joined the party recently, he said: “The APC guidelines do not stop anybody who is a member of the party from contesting an election.

Even if you joined yesterday, you have the same right to contest the election as somebody who joined two years ago.

“Don’t forget that Alaibe has a track record of achievement when he was in NDDC. At that time, he managed nine states. I don’t think one state will be a problem for him.

So, we are confident that he stands the best chance to pick the APC ticket and win the election scheduled for December 5.”

The reality in Bayelsa State reinforces that belief. From the street talks to serious political forums, the huge expectation is that Alaibe must become the candidate on September 19. That alone will unsettle the PDP candidate. A lot of the delegates have clearly stated that if the so called change by the APC must be achieved in Bayelsa State, then it has to start with changing from the past to the present. According to them neither Dickson nor Sylva represent change or the present.

•Kalio, a journalist, sent this piece from Bayelsa State

SDGs: Deciding Moment at UN Youth Assembly

Gidado Yushau Shuaib

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ew months after the launch of Youths Digest magazine, I received an invitation as an editor to attend United Nations Youth Assembly (UNYA) in New York, organised by Friendship Ambassador Foundation.

Realising that confirmed sponsorship of an event in America doesn’t an guarantee automatic visa to the United States, I filled the online application form for the visa and waited for a miracle.

At the US Embassy in Abuja, I was not only scared but terrified seeing the number of prospective travellers, especially businessmen and politicians, whose visa requests were rejected. I prayed deeply when I overheard an applicant cursing her unknown enemies, for failure to get the visa.

“Young man, you are the next person!”

A voice interrupted my thought. I looked up only to see the visa officer beckoning to me to come over.

Being an undergraduate, I have learnt that job interviews are tedious; I didn’t anticipate that a visa interview could be more rigid, tough and penetrating. Having read most of the correspondences from organisers on the scheduled programmes and activities in New York and other studies, I found it easy responding to the questions. Though convinced on my response,

I still had palpable fears of rejection.

“Your visa will be ready next week!” the visa Officer declared suddenly.

I was not only excited at the opportunity to visit the USA, the fact that the International Youth Conference, known as Youth Assembly, would take place inside the United Nations Headquarters in New York was an added impetus.

After two stopovers in Amsterdam and Boston, we finally landed in New York City at the end of a breath-taking 18-hour journey. We arrived in New York City at night, with a thick cloud hovering over the legendary city. The impressive wide boulevards and flyovers were fascinating and lovely.

On arrival at the UN Headquarters, delegates were issued tags for easy identification in the building. The Youth Assembly had in attendance nearly 600 delegates from over 30 countries. Most of the discussions and deliberations focused on the Sustainable Development Goals, the successor to the Millennium Developments Goals (MDGs) due to lapse this year after 15 years of reign.

Nigerian-born Amina J. Mohammed who is Special Advisor to the Secretary General of the United Nations on Post -2015 Development Planning was among the guest speakers. She set the tune for the conference when she declared: “Now you have a real chance to make a tremendous

impact in the world - as the chosen few.”

Another inspiring speaker was Andy Rabens, U.S Special Advisor for Global Youth Issues who narrated his experience at the UN General Assembly Hall more than 10 years ago as a young man and intern. He talked about a ‘Pager’ being used then as a mobile device. He said, “It would buzz, a number would appear, and you’d go to a pay phone, throw in a quarter, and call them back in a different time. Mobile phones were not too popular then.”

He recalled that during that period, which was before the infamous 9/11 attack on the twin towers of the World Trade Centre in U.S, there was no Facebook, Twitter, smartphones, selfies or any powerful social networks for easy communication.

As he spoke, I wondered how the youths were communicating before year 2000 when there were no easy means of communication through technology. In fact the youths had far less power at their fingertips compared to today. We could not imagine a life without smart phone, internet and social media platforms.

Other speakers agreed that because of technology and demographics, we now live in the most empowered generation the world has ever seen. With about 60 per cent of global population below the age of 35, the youths have the power to change the world positively by mobilizing

towards just causes.

The delegates lauded the launching of the Sustainable Developmental Goals (SDGs) that would expand on the successes of the Millennium Development Goals (MDGs). While they agreed that MDGs recorded reductions in people living in extreme poverty and access to clean water among others, there are more loopholes to be blocked and tackled.

The new agenda of SDGs will likely consist of additional goals for the next 15 years towards further eradicating extreme poverty; ensuring environmental sustainability and conservation; advancing gender equality, continuing to tackle conflict and climate change and building peaceful and economically prosperous societies so that no global citizen is left behind.

The young people at the Youth Assembly unanimously agreed that with modern technology and the world of connectivity, there is greater opportunity to not only help shape the worldview but to implement SDGs and ensure that concrete progress takes place before our very eyes.

The UN Youth Assembly not only broadened my scope of knowledge on MDGs and SDGs, the trip exposed me to exceptional youths that are passionate about changing the world positively.

•Gidado Yushau Shuaib writes from Baze University, Abuja via gidadoshuaib@yahoo. com

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SUNDAY, SEPTEMBER 13, 2015 SUNDAY TELEGRAPH

Sunday Mail SEPTEMBER 13, 2015

You have a right to be heard! Send your letters and photographs to sundayletters@newtelegraphonline.com.

Letters should not be more than 200 words and must have the name and address of the sender Amosun’s verdict on looters Dear Editor, There is no denying that it is corruption that has brought Nigeria to its knees today. It is therefore a welcome development when public office holders are in the forefront of agitation for life imprisonment for corrupt public servants.

It is in Nigeria that you have people who could not ride a bicycle before coming into government emerging as richest men after a spell in public service.

But it is also in Nigeria that people believe that everyone that went into government was nobody before. Indeed, there are people who were already wealthy and had accomplished so much in life long before venturing into politics or occupying public offices.

This point should never be lost on anyone even as we all rail against corruption. By and large, it is corruption that has held Nigeria hostage and stifled its development. The structure and form of government we operate also allow corruption to fester.

I wholeheartedly congratulate President Muhammadu Buhari for his efforts to deliver Nigeria from the bondage of corruption. I believe also that there is need to amend extant laws so that corrupt public officials (elected, appointed or career civil servants) can get life imprisonment for the sins of corruption as recommended by the governor of Ogun State, Senator Ibikunle Amosun. It is interesting that every government in Nigeria is trying to imbibe the Treasury Single Account in order to block leakages and end corruption. Governor Amosun actually ordered immediate implementation of TSA when he mounted the saddle of leadership in 2011. It may shock readers to discover that about 300 bank accountants were closed in Ogun State upon the introduction of TSA. How could one government either at the state or federal level operate hundreds of bank accounts without some funds ending up in private pockets?

Apart from TSA, which played a vital role in boosting Ogun IGR from a paltry N750m a month to up to N3bn per month within just two years, the introduction of e-payment by the Amosun administration also helped to block drainpipes in the finances of the state and curb corruption.

Finally, both political office-holders and career public servants should take a lesson from the submission of Amosun: “It takes two to tango. This anti-corruption crusade is not only about political office-holders, government workers too should detest corruption. It is time we all denounced and stigmatized corruption. If we all come together to kill corruption, we would be the better for it.”

Soyombo Opeyemi Abeokuta, Ogun State

Buhari, remember Enugu coal mines Dear Editor, Permit me to use your newspaper to remind the President and Commander-in-Chief of the Nigerian Armed Forces, Muhammadu Buhari, of his campaign promise to the people of Enugu State. As for back as the days of the Eastern Region even before Nigeria’s independence from Britain, coal had been a major source of energy and income for the people of that part of the country. With the glut in oil and gas business and economic meltdown experienced in many parts of the globe, coal has been a ready alternative to wealth creation.

Youth employment which was among the campaign promises of our dear president will get a boost if this can be extended to exploiting coal as a means of providing jobs for the people of Enugu State. They believe in the ability of our action President to keep his promises.

Dickson Nnaji Ogbodo Agbani Town Enugu State 08135798446

Ambode, fix Bode Joseph Street

Dear Editor, I wish to call on the amiable Governor of Lagos State, Akinwunmi Ambode, to order the rehabilitation and tarring of Bode Joseph Street in Ifako, Kosofe Local Government Area. The road runs alongside Ojota-Oworonsoki Expressway on the inward Lagos side. The road has been negelcted by successive administrations despite the fact that there are fictitious records in some government departments, indicating that it has been tarred.

The road was listed for construction some years ago but nothing has become of it since then. The road also needs a good drainage linking to Lagos Lagoon. Joint efforts by some churches and residents of the street to keep it in motorable condition in the past amounted to token efforts. Government should do something urgently about the road, especially as it adjacent to a federal road.

Adeola John Ifako, Lagos

Road closed!

PHOTO: GODWIN IREKHE

Buhari and limitations of probes

Dear Editor, The Presidency has declared that it will limit its corruption probe to the immediate past government of Dr. Goodluck Jonathan. It has also vowed to arrest and prosecute ministers, government officials and cronies that allegedly looted funds. The Special Adviser to the President on Media and Publicity, Mr. Femi Adesina, anchored his argument on the ground of ‘Distraction.’ Adesina said: “It is a simple thing. Before he was inaugurated, the President said it would be a distraction for him to start digging deep into the (activities of) past governments. He said so. I don’t see anything new. But it will be irresponsible of any government to leave things of the immediate past that are glaring and evident and not to do anything about them.”

While I’m in total support of the President’s resolve to probe the Jonathan administration, I also urge President Muhammadu Buhari to encourage himself (like the Biblical David who recovered all) and extend the probe to two high powerful profile probes that have been swept under the carpet in the past. The statement credited to Buhari during his inaugural speech that “I belong to everybody and I belong to nobody” can only be justified if and only if the President agrees to probe these two high powerful reports that are glaring and evident.

Like Adesina said, is it not irresponsible for any government to leave out the probe of $16 billion allegedly spent on the power sector under President Olusegun Obasanjo? Definitely, the huge amount will compel any responsible government to swing into action without further delay. The report of the House of Representatives ad hoc committee on electricity led by Ndudi Elumelu on how the $16bn was expended must be considered by the current administration. Apart from Dr. Olusegun Agagu, who is now late but can still be investigated, other prime actors involved in this matter are still alive. Former Minister of Power and Steel, Liyel Imoke; former Minister of State (Energy), Alhaji Abdulhamad Ahmed; former Managing Director of Power Holding Company of Nigeria, Engr. Joseph Makoju; and 16 unregistered companies that were named in the probe should be invited by Economic and Financial Crimes Commission. While I admit that there is a burden of expectations from Nigerians, it should be recalled that

Buhari was quoted during the 2011 presidential debate organised

by NN24, a cable television network in Nigeria, as saying: “We need to know how much has been spent so far. Over $16 billion were spent by Obasanjo’s regime, yet we don’t have power….”

When asked whether he would probe past governments on power funds, Buhari replied: “What I said was very clear. We want to know how the money was spent because Nigeria doesn’t have the power.” Buhari’s enthusiasm and political will to probe funds expended on the power sector should not be allowed to fade away on mere ‘distraction’ as an excuse.

Another probe that has been swept under the carpet by successive governments is the report of the late renowned economist, Dr. Pius Okigbo, on the N12.4bn Gulf War oil windfall which accrued to the nation during the administration of military president, Gen. Ibrahim Babangida. The Gulf War oil money which was originally meant to develop Shiroro Hydro Electricity, Ajaokuta Steel Company and National Iron Ore Mining Company was kept at the Central Bank of Nigeria before it disappeared. This is a big blow to the nation. Okigbo report should be reopened. All efforts by civil society groups to compel past governments to make the report known to the public were frustrated by court dismissal on the ground that it was not gazetted by government or published for public consumption. I urge Buhari to officially gazette the Okigbo Report and commence the immediate arrest and prosecution of people found culpable. These two probes will add more credibility to this administration and make the public to know that impunity has no place in Nigeria under the current administration.

I believe in Buhari! I believe in his integrity!! I believe he has the political will to give orders to commence these two probes!!!

I want to believe the Chairman of the Presidential Advisory Committee Against Corruption, Prof. Itse Sagay (SAN), on what he said: “For me, there is no selectivity. It is plain and straightforward. Those who have looted the country‘s funds are going to be requested to return them and in fact prosecuted if necessary. It has nothing to do with selectivity.”

Taiwo Kehinde 07062271130, Loburo Ogun State

African nations and finance

Dear Editor, Question - if Africa has 10 of the fastest growing economies in the world coupled with strong entrepreneurial culture, how come its ability to attract funding is hindered?

The flow of capital is not strictly based on unmet demand but rather legal infrastructure that enables capital to stay and encourage growth, devoid of undue political interference.

In most African nations, unfortunately, their governments unduly affect how business is conducted - who gets what, how and when. Simple issues such as the verification of business enterprise ownership and or real estate are difficult. In rural areas as well as urban ones, vital statistics and records of activities are practically non-existent, and the political leadership to initiate such is not welcome.

For instance, 95 per cent of landowners in Nigeria have no marketable real property titles, easily transferable in the case of a conveyance. No title insurance policies and dispute regarding such matters attract both limited judicial experience and resources, with overbearing and undue interference from the political class, such that simple matters take years to resolve.

Investors will normally not go to areas where business resolu-

tion cannot be addressed no matter the return and reward.

Investors will settle for low returns in low risk areas than high returns in a high risk and very volatile market. The insurmountable conditions are the reason interest rate charges on borrowed capital are often in high double digits. Such high double digits choke life out of business sustainability and survival.

While Africa spots fastest growing economies, this we have known for years, it still remain a challenging environment in that the fundamentals are not in place and most investors are wary of placing their capital despite the glowing records.

Governments have to come strong on reforms that open the market and allow legal infrastructure channel resources.

The want/wish without wilful political commitment to reform and transform will not allow the sort of growth and development to take root and become sustainable. It is likely in more decades to come that Africa will be recycling the same stories. I like to be proven wrong.

Just my 2 cents enabled by my 2 kobo!

E E Okpa II Dallas, Texas, United States

SUNDAY TELEGRAPH, SUNDAY SEPTEMBER 13, 2015

Moments

L-R : Managing Director, WFM 91.7, Toun Okewale-Sonaiya; Head, Sales & Marketing, WFM 91.7, Mr. Lawal Olayinka; Executive Chairman, WFM 91.7, Dr. Babatunde Okewale and Principal Consultant, TPT International, Toks Modupe, at the unveiling of on-air personalities of WFM 91.7, Nigeria’s first radio station for women in Lagos…recently

L-R: Special Adviser to Kwara State Governor on Labour Matters, Alhaji Hassan Gobir; Head of Service, Hajia Zahra Omar; Chief of Staff, Alhaji Yusuf Abdulwahab; Chairman, Trade Union Congress, Kwara State, Kola Olumo and Chairman, Nigeria Labour Congress, Yekeen Agunbiade, during the presentation of letter in support of President Muhammadu Buhari’s Anti Corruption Crusade in Ilorin...on Thursday

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L-R: Head, Marketing and Communications, VIMN Africa, Colette Otusheso; Executive Director, MTV SAF, Georgia Arnold and MTV Shuga Cast, Dorcas Shola Fapson, at the world premiere of MTV Shuga 4 in Lagos

L-R: Author of Maths Mental Drill, Mrs. Sarah Olumakinde; her husband, Seun; Special Guest, Rev. Joshua Olotu; his wife, Victoria and Guest Speaker, Mr. Segun Alabi, during the presentation of the book in Lagos…. recently

Former Member, Bauchi State House of Assembly, Rifkatu Danna (right), dancing with widows when she distributed relief materials and foodstuffs to widows of Boi and Lusa Districts of Bogoro LGA in Bauchi… yesterday

L-R: Chairman, Medical Advisory Committee, University College Hospital (Uch), Ibadan, Dr. Akinfemi Afolabi; Chief Medical Director, Prof. Temitope Alonge; member of Olajumoke Akinjide Foundation, Alhaji Olajire Obisesan; Chairperson of the foundation, Mrs Modupeola Akindeko and member, Akinwunmi Akinfenwa, at the presentation of medical supplies and equipment to the University College Hospital in Ibadan …on Thursday. PHOTO-NAN

L-R: Chairman, Ah-Hoc Committee on non implementation of capital projects, Hon Aliyu Bahago Pategi; member of the committee, Hon. Oluwale Oke and Hon. Linus Okorie, during a public hearing on non implementation of capital projects in the 2015 Appropriation Act in Abuja…on Thursday. PHOTO: ELIJAH OLALUYI

L-R: Sales/Circulation Manager, Daily Telegraph Publishing Company Limited, Mr. Oyebanji Abiodun; son of a driver of New Telegraph newspaper, late Risiku Salau, Fawas; wife of late Salau, Sherif; Abeeb and Sakiru, during the staff’s condolence visit to the family of late Salau, at Ayobo, Lagos…yesterday. PHOTO: TONY EGUAYE

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SUNDAY SEPTEMBER 13, 2015, SUNDAY TELEGRAPH

News

Boko Haram: Nigerians lament persecution in Chad

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Muritala Ayinla igerians in the Republic of Chad have lamented continued persecution and victimisation by the Chadian police, saying no fewer than 40 innocent Nigerians traders have been arrested and docked.

They accused the Chadian police of labeling every Nigerian a member of the dreaded Boko Haram sect without a proof, adding

that many of them had been tortured and persecuted for alleged involvement in terrorist activities, while the Nigerian Embassy in Chad had failed to take any step to resolve the matter.

They called on the Nigerian government and global human rights community to wade into the continued attack of Nigerians by Chadian Police and the Chadians to prevent xenophobic attack in the country.

Speaking with Sunday Telegraph, the Vice President

of the Nigerian community in Chad, Alhaji Adeyemi Yusuf said that more than 22 innocent Nigerians were arrested while trading in their shops in Ndjamena, the capital city of Chad in the last two months.

He added that law the abiding Nigerians in Chad no longer have freedom of movement as they have become subjects of oppression, victimisation and hostility from the host community who labels them as members of Boko Haram

insurgency.

Adeyemi, who is a dealer in hide and a skin in Chad since 1993 said that the victimisation and hostility against foreigners, mostly Nigerians in Chad had grown beyond control, adding that many innocent Nigerians are feeling back home to save their lives.

Investigation revealed that any Nigerian who is in transit to other parts of Africa, such as Sudan and Mali were not spared by the Chadian police.

One of the victims, who simply identified himself as Kareem said: “I can count up to 15 Nigerians who were in the same cell with me. They are in transit to Sudan but the Chadian police put them in cell.”

He told our correspondent that he was in the cell for two months before he could get bail after he had paid one million CFA to the police.

Also lamenting the victimisation, another victim who spoke via telephone

to our correspondent, Mrs. Dorcas Ekanem said that she spent two months and 12 days in police cell without any crime.

She stated that the police came to arrest her in her shop and despite that she presented the Nigeria Consulate Card, the law enforcement agent took her away. “I got out of the cell due to the intervention of the Local Government in that area because most of the public officers there are my customers,” she said.

Mecca tragedy: Two Nigerians die, three others injured Yekeen Nurudeen Saudi Arabia

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L-R: Edo State Governor, Adams Oshiomhole, his wife, Iara; Mrs Arase, her husband, the Inspector-General of Police, Mr. Solomon Arase and former InspectorGeneral of Police and Chairman Police Service Commission,Sir Mike Okiro, at a reception organised by the state government for IGP...on Friday ,

Arase honoured, vows to fight cultists Cajetan Mmuta, BENIN

I

nspector-General of Police, Mr. Solomon Arase ,has described his appointment as the number one police officer for the nation’s over 170 million resourceful and dogged Nigerians as the defining moment of his professional career.

Speaking at a dinner held in his honour by the Edo State Government over the weekend, Arase said that despite their enviable records and fantastic career, no other police officers of Edo origin had ever risen to that level, because it takes an average officer from the state about 30 years to reach the rank of Commissioner of Police.

“Retired Deputy Inspector-General of Police, Parry Osayande was to become the Inspector General of Police, he never got it. Magnus Eweka was to get to that level but he never became the IGP; Fidelis Oyakilomen was to be the Inspector-General of Police, he never made it. I am a child

of destiny and providence,” he said.

Speaking on the philosophy that kept him going in the force, he said: “I have fallen; I have risen but one thing I have always told myself is that any time I fall, I should always have the courage to come back and fight for my right. I am an Edo; there are certain things that define an Edo man - excellence, hard work and integrity. I have fought so many battles, I have won some but this one is the defining moment to become the first Edo man to become the Inspector General of Police, to me is a defining moment.”

He promised the people of the state and Nigeria at large that he will remain on the path of integrity, continue with the fight against cultism and corruption by the dismantling of road blocks in the country.

He called on state governments and corporate organisations to continue to assist the police in various ways because state and federal governments cannot do it alone because of the enor-

mous resources required to deal with crime and criminality.

Earlier, Governor Oshiomhole stated that Arase’s appointment came at the right time as a product of providence and merit due to his outstanding performance and resilience in the force.

Oshiomhole said: “We are very proud of the fact that in the Nigeria geopolitical equation, we are regarded as minority, but God in his infinite mercy directed and touch the heart of leaders to go for merit and one of us strictly on the basis of merit is today the Inspector General of Police. We have always produced the best brains when Nigeria needs brain, when there are challenges that require courage, intellect, resourcefulness, doggedness, fearlessness; Edo has always been on the map.”

He recalled that Arase was promoted to Commissioner of Police along with some officers sometime ago, but the promotion became controversial for political reasons, leading to the re-

moval of the rank. He said he remained unperturbed until providence beckoned on him.

Eminent personalities at the occasion include a two-time governor of old Midwest region and later Bendel State, Dr. Samuel Ogbemudia, retired Deputy Inspector-General of Police, Parry Osayande and former Speaker of the State House of Assembly, Uyi Igbe and top Benin palace chiefs.

wo Nigerian pilgrims from Kaduna State are believed to be among the 107 pilgrims who died after a crane fell on Friday in the holy mosque in Mecca, Saudi Arabia.

Though no official statement was given by the National Hajj Commission of Nigeria about the deaths of Nigerians in the tragedy, Sunday Telegraph learnt that two pilgrims from Kaduna State were among the dead. A pilgrim from Kaduna State told our correspondent that Kaduna State Muslim Pilgrims Welfare Board on Friday night confirmed that two of its pilgrims died in the accident.

This was as Saudi Authorities yesterday began the process of identifying the 107 victims of Friday crane accident at the holy mosque in Kaabah. There has been apprehension in the Nigerian camp on whether any Nigerian pilgrim was affected.

But Saudi authorities said they had begun the process of identifying the victims before they would be buried in the holy land.

They promised to contact all countries that might have lost any citizens in the crane accident. Parts of the Grand

Mosque remained sealed yesterday around where the crane crashed but government officials said the annual pilgrimage would go on as scheduled. There was little mourning around the site as pilgrims continued to snap pictures of the wreckage and offered prayers for the dead.

A pilgrim from Egypt told newsmen that he wished he “died in the accident as it happened at a holy hour and in a holy place.”

Already, an investigative committee has begun searching for the cause of the collapse of the crane.

News Agency of Nigeria reports that NAHCON Chairman, Mallam Abdullahi Mukhtar, confirmed that three Nigerian pilgrims sustained minor injuries in the crane crash in Mecca’s Grand Mosque in Saudi Arabia.

Mukhtar, who stated this known at a news conference in Abuja, said the victims were responding to treatment in the holy land.

Mukhtar, who did not name the victims, however, said that two were from Kaduna and one from Gombe.

He expressed deep shock over the sad incident but assured that it would not affect this year’s exercise in any way.

Parents, students hail Lagos politician

O

ver 1000 students in Agege area of Lagos State have expressed excitements over the recent gesture made to them by Hon Olugbenga Ogunniyi who paid for their General Certificate of Education forms and tutorials that lasted for two months before they took the examination recently.

In a letter of appreciation sent to Ogunniyi, the parents and students said the gesture was one of the best anyone has ever offered

them in the area, assuring him that they will excel and become better citizens of the state and country at large.

Speaking at the end of the event, Ogunniyi who is a contender for the Agege Local Government chairmanship position under the All Progressive Congress lamented that a major hindrance to the fulfillment youths’ dreams was their inability to meet the financial demands of their potentials.

Ogunniyi commended the coordinators of the programme who he said, went through a painstaking process before picking the beneficiaries of the project.

He appealed to them to see the gesture as a golden opportunity to pursue their lifetime dreams, and implored students in general to take their academics very seriously so that they can use it as a tool to free themselves from the shackles of poverty, ignorance, diseases and all sorts of vicious vices.

SUNDAY

15

Politics SUNDAY, SEPTEMBER 13, 2015

FG should set timeline for court cases, says Wayo p.16 Okowa’s foundation for wealth creation p.18 Aliero: No one can tackle insurgency in 100 days p.19

The Sunday Interview

Bamanga Tukur: My removal caused Jonathan’s defeat p.20&37 Lalong’s 100 days of reconstruction p.38

Biyi Adegoroye Assistant Editor biyi.fire@yahoo.com © Daily Telegraph Publishing Company Limited

Traffic jam on Lagos-Ibadan Expressway. Inset: resumed of rehabilitation

Buharimania compels contractors back to sites

F

or several months before May 29, nearly all capital projects in the country lied prostrate due to paucity of funds. Major construction companies vacated sites and in the process over 60,000 construction workers were sacked due to non-implementation of capital projects by the then President Goodluck Jonathan’s administration.

But since the dawn of the current administration, the situation has changed following President Muhammadu Bukhara’s order that they all moved to site with immediate effect. Other reason was what has been described as Buhariphobia, an apprehension that having received mobilisation fees, they have no justifications for such slow execution of projects.

At a recent meeting between the Permanent Secretary, Federal Ministry of Works, Dauda S. Kigbu and the representatives of about 10 major contractors, the contractors allegedly resolved to maintain some level of presence at the project sites.

This is coming, even as the main issue of funding, believed to have topped the agenda of that meeting was not given the desired attention. Kigbu assurance to the contractors that the Ministry would “swiftly resolve the outstanding issues to enable the contractors execute the various projects they are handling” Though a soothing balm, but that appears not to be a compelling factor like the fear of Buhari’s anti- corruption posture.

Among the contractors present at the meeting were Julius Berger Nigeria Plc, CCECC Nigeria

In response to President Muhammadu Buhari’s current anticorruption stance and assurances of payment for capital projects, BIYI ADEGOROYE; ADEOLA YUSUF and CALEB ONWE write that various construction sites in the country are now bustling with activities Limited, Setraco Nigeria Limited, CGC Nigeria Limited, Gitto Construzioni General Nigeria Limited, Triacta Nigeria Limited.

Others include Salini Nigeria Limited, Borini Prono &CO Nigeria Limited, Arab Contractors Nigeria Limited, Bulletine Construction Nigeria Limited, Mothercat Construction Limited and P.W Nigeria Limited.

One of the projects currently receiving attention is the ever busy Lagos-Ibadan Expressway, where the contractors have resumed work on the expansion to a three-lane road. The N167 billion project entails rehabilitation, reconstruction and expansion works was awarded to two contractors. While Julius Berger Nigeria Limited is handling Section 1 (Lagos–Shagamu axis), Messrs Reynolds Construction Company (RCC) Limited is handling Section II (Shagamu–Ibadan axis).

The re-awarding of the contract by the government of President Goodluck Jonathan followed the collapse of the concession agreement with Messrs Bi-Courtney contracted in 2009. It was to

develop the section between Ojota Toll Gate in Lagos and the old toll plaza in Ibadan, a distance of approximately 105 kilometers under a Public Private Partnership (PPP) arrangement for enhanced quality of service to all users of the highway in tandem with international standards.

Four years down the rhighway , however, no real progress was recorded while the road users wallowed in hardship and constantly at risk of accident on the road. Not a few road users have lost their lives on the ever-busy road.

The level of carnage on the highway by September 2012 and the frequent loss of lives and man-hours were destructive even to the economy, eliciting an urgent need to remedy the situation. Hence the termination of the concession agreement with Bi-Courtney, and payment of the sum of N50 billion, representing 30 per cent of the N167 billion cost of the project to the new cmpanies. Private investors and financiers led by the Infrastructure Bank was to raise the N117bn balance needed to complete the project.

CONTINUED ON PAGE 17

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SUNDAY, SEPTEMBER 13, 2015 SUNDAY TELEGRAPH

Politics

One in every four girls is sexually abused -UNICEF Rep

to drown, burning intentionally, or using or threatening to use a gun, knife or other weapon. When you consider the definition used it is highly concerning that the survey found that out of those children that experienced physical violence, one in 10 suffered one or more of these acts of physical violence before the age of five years.

Sexual, physical and emotional violence have significant negative impacts on the mental and physical well being of children while they are under 18 years and into their adulthood. The survey found significantly higher levels of mental distress, suicidal thoughts, self harming, sexual and other risk taking behaviour (e.g. substance abuse), and sexually transmitted infections compared to people who had never experienced violence.

One in seven children who experienced sexual violence had become pregnant. Critically, adults who had experienced sexual or physical violence were also found to be more likely to be perpetrators of intimate partner violence themselves.

In addition to impacting the child during childhood and into adulthood, violence has economic consequences. Violence against children is estimated to cost a country tow to eight per cent of is Gross Domestic Product and constrains nations’ sustainable growth.

Therefore, violence against children it is not someone else’s problem, it is everybody’s problem.

Country Representative of the United Nations Children’s Fund in Nigeria, Ms. Jeam Gough, in this interview with BIYI ADEGOROYE identifies the prevalence of child abuse in the country and how this can be reduced drastically How has UNICEF been addressing issues of displaced children and child soldiers in areas of conflicts like in the North-East?

Children have borne the brunt of the conflict in the North-East. There are nearly 1,140,000 displaced children under the age of 18 years in Yobe, Borno and Adamawa. This number does not take into account the thousands of children that have been displaced across Nigeria. Amongst these children, there is estimated to be over 10,000 children who have lost both parents or are separated from their families. These children are at heightened risk of abuse and exploitation. Children, both boys and girls, have also been recruited and abducted, some of whom were subsequently used as suicide bombers. UNICEF, which has been present throughout the conflict, but opened its office in Maiduguri in January this year to increase our presence on the ground, has been working with the State Ministries and partners with various groups to address the needs of these children.

UNICEF has reached over 45,000 with psychosocial support to cope with the distress of the conflict and has reached over 1000 unaccompanied and separated children with support and safe appropriate care, including children who have been rescued or released.

The scale of the protection challenges facing children is huge. Although UNICEF is reaching a large number of children, the majority of children who have been impacted by the conflict are not being reached with support by any agency due to limited available resources.

With what attitude does UNICEF expect world leaders to address issues affecting children and their rights?

The inclusion of the target on ending violence against children in the Sustainable Development Goals is a clear indication of a changing perception. Violence against children is moving from being perceived as ‘just’ a child rights issue or a protection issue to being seen as fundamental to the sustainable development of a nation. We hope that this will elevate the importance for world leaders of adequately investing in preventing and responding to violence against children – an area that is so often severely under resourced.

What is the level of state government’s compliance with the Child Rights Act in Nigeria?

The adoption of the Child Rights Act in 2003 was a landmark in Nigeria for the protection of the rights of children, including from abuse, violence, neglect and exploitation. To impact children’s lives, the law needs to be domesticated at state level and taken from paper into practice. 23 of the 36 states have domesticated law, with a number of states recently giving strong indications that they will domesticate the law e.g. Kaduna, Enugu and Bayelsa states. Domestication of the law is an important first step. However, to operationalise the provisions of the law, states need to take steps to strengthen the

Gough

institutions responsible for child protection and the capacity of their frontline workers (social welfare, health and justice) to effectively handle child protection cases. Family Courts must also be established not only to hold perpetrators accountable, but also to ensure children can be removed from situations of significant harm. There must also be alternative care available for children who are not safe where they are living. While states have taken different and commendable steps to implement the law, no state has managed full operationalisation of the law and efforts need to continue and be intensified to ensure that the Child Rights Act protects children in practice. UNICEF is currently supporting nine states in their efforts to strengthen their child protection system.

What forms of deprivations and violations do children often suffer all around the world?

The 2006 Global Report on Violence Against Children highlighted that millions of children suffer physical, sexual and emotional violence around the world. No country is 100 per cent violence free, although many countries have made significant progress in tackling violence since the 2006 report.

Children also experience context specific violence, such as female genital mutilation/ cutting, child marriage, killing and maiming for purposes of witchcraft especially children with albinism. These violations are also facing children in different parts of Nigeria. While the prevalence of child marriage is decreasing in Nigeria, due to the rapidly increasing birth rate, the number of child brides will double by 2050.

From your research, how prevalent is violence against children in Nigeria?

On September 10, the government of Nigeria launched the Nigeria Violence Against Children Survey. The Survey, led by the Na-

tional Population Commission, with the support of UNICEF and the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, revealed a high prevalence of sexual, emotional and physical violence amongst children. Approximately six out of every 10 children experience some form of violence before they reach the age of 18 years. One in every two children experience physical violence and one in four girls and one in ten boys experience sexual violence. Furthermore, one in six girls and one in five boys experience emotional violence.

Most children, who experience violence, will be subjected to violence again and again during childhood. Perpetrators are generally not strangers, but people that the children know and children are most likely to suffer violence where they should be safe – at home, at school and to and from school.

Children suffer in silence. Less than 50 per cent of children will ever tell anyone that they have suffered physical violence, with an even lower disclosure rate if they have experienced sexual violence. Most children do not know where to get help and even if they know, only five per cent of children ever receive the help they need to recover.

Could you enumerate the kinds of violence and abuses they suffer and what effects these have on their growth and future?

The survey focused on three kinds of violence. Sexual violence meaning forced, pressurized or unwanted sex (completed and attempted) and sexual touching. Emotional violence defined as being ridiculed or put down by their parent, adult caregiver or adult relative, being told by them that they were unloved or did not deserve to be loved, or that someone wished they were dead or had never been born.

Physical violence, which for the purpose of the survey was defined as punching (hitting with a fist), kicking, whipping, beating with an object, choking, smothering, trying

How can parents, religious leaders, media help in eradicating violence against children?

No single government Ministry can eradicate violence against children on its own. Effectively tackling violence against children requires a multi-sectoral approach involving social welfare, education, health, justice etc.

It also requires the collaboration of religious leaders, communities, parents and the media.

It is for this reason that the Federal Ministry of Women Affairs and Social Development convened an interagency Technical Working Group, comprising key Ministries, Departments, Agencies, Civil Society Organisations and faith-based organisations to develop priority actions to escalate activities on prevention of violence and to strengthen the response for children. The priority actions, which are due to be launched by the President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria on September 15, clearly articulate the critically important role that religious leaders plan to play in widely disseminating key message on violence against children and addressing negative social norms that perpetuate violence. The media is also a powerful platform to raise public consciousness on violence against children, to advocate for effective action to be taken to prevent and respond to violence and to mobilise action.

Parents, families and communities are fundamental to providing a protective environment for children as they grow up, to ensure they are safe from harm and where they do experience violence to support them to speak out and access the help they need to recover.

It is essential that parents are aware of the harm their children may be suffering and know where they can seek help for their children. It is only with everyone acting together that a real impact can be made on ending violence against children.

What is your dream for Nigerian children?

My dream for Nigerian children is the same as UNICEF’s dream for children all over the world – that their rights are protected, their basic needs are met and they are able to reach their full potential. I would also wish for all children in Nigeria to be able to grow up free from violence.

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SUNDAY TELEGRAPH SUNDAY, SEPTEMBER 13, 2015

Politics

One of the refineries in Port Harcourt

First Niger bridge, Onitsha

Buharimania compels contractors back to sites CONTINUED FROM PAGE 15

However, both Julius Berger and RCC have returned to site and the road expansion and rehabilitation have continued in earnest.

Though no funds have been released, the contractors have confidence in President Buhari’s promise to inject fund into the project.

Besides the physical presence of the contractors on site, a source at the Ministry of Works in Abuja confirmed the resumption of works. He said the road sector is bedeviled with shortfall in budgetary allocation over the years, revealing that the sector, on the average, requires an estimated N500 billion annually, for a robust execution of road projects nationwide.

However, this expectation is a mirage, considering that annual allocation is usually a paltry sum that cannot meet the need of the road sector in one region of the country.

Former Minister of Works, Mike Onolememen, immediately after defending the ministry’s budget before the Senate Committee, thus year lamented the reduction of the ministry’s N100bn proposed budget for 2015 by the Ministry of Finance to N11bn, representing an 89 per cent reduction.

Following the harp reduction, Onolememen expressed great concern that only 33 out of the 210 on-going road projects had been provided for in view of the “lean allocation” to the ministry. This was borne out of the fact that the provision was not sufficient to encourage contractors to sustain appreciable progress on their work sites.

An engineer with one of the multinational construction companies told Sunday Telegraph that their company’s decision to return to some of their project sites was not far from the fact that they desire to regain their lost ground in Nigeria.

According to him, the company due to lack of fund to pay workers has closed down many of its branches and have even resorted to selling of their equipments. The source also said that the company desired to be in the good book of the present administration in order to shore up their dwindling revenue.

Chrome and $10m refinery contracts Another contractor that moved to site is Chrome Oil Services Company, the major contractor handling key rehabilitation of the Port Harcourt Refining and Petrochemical Company (PHRC). It resumed the maintenance of the refinery after the failure of Dr. Jonathan’s re-election bid. The company, since then, believes that the contracts, which

the Managing Director of the PHRC, Dr. Bafred Audu Enjugu said gulped “a little below $10 million,” has been successful.

Chairman of the company, Chief Emeka Offor, said recently that the firm, which is “among other contractors carrying out overhaul of the Port Harcourt Refining and Petrochemical Company,” when it becomes fully operational, the unit would concentrate on the production of petrol, which would also go a long way to reduce importation.

“The ongoing phased rehabilitation of the company cost a little less than $10 million. The job was holistically carried out by indigenous engineers without any foreign support,” Enjugu said during the visit of Group Managing Director of the Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation (NNPC) Dr. Ibe Kachinkwu to the facility.

Ofor told journalists in Lagos that the importation of Premium Motor Spirit, popularly known as petrol, would drop by about 40 per cent when critical unit of the Port Harcourt refinery begins operation.

This assurance, according to him, was because the critical constituent of the refinery, the Fluid Catalytic Cracking Unit, would become functional. The FCCU is where Vacuum Gas Oil and Heavy Diesel Oil are cracked to obtain more valuable products.

Such products include FCC gasoline used as PMS blend and Light Cycle as blend component for Low Pour Fuel Oil and Liquefied Petroleum Gas. Offor confirmed that the restoration work at the FCC had then reached 98 per cent conclusion and was expected to come on stream. “Hope of petroleum products supply stability is about to be accomplished as we at Chrome Oil Services Company, the major contractors handling key rehabilitation of the Port Harcourt refinery, will complete work on the FCCU. “The FCCU is about 98 per cent completed and we are hopeful that by next week it will be completed and it will reduce 40 per cent on Federal Government importation of refined products. The company is among other contractors carrying out overhaul of the facility as government takes giant steps to revamp the country’s four refineries in a bid to address the lingering fuel scarcity.”

The company’s chairman assured Nigerians that when it becomes fully operational, the unit would concentrate on the production of petrol, which would also go a long way to reduce importation.

Offor added that it would then resolve the incessant petrol scarcity. Lack of Turn-

Around Maintenance of the existing refineries in the country had, according to him, contributed to the perennial fuel scarcity.

He said: “Over time, the refineries are working but below installed capacity. The last TAM was done in 2000 and this is an exercise that should be carried out every two years.

“The inability of the refineries to refine at full capacity further complicated the fuel supply situation across major cities in the country. We have outstandingly provided urgent situation repair work at both Kaduna and Port Harcourt refineries.

“The vital technical and engineering services we have turned to have guaranteed the continuous running of those refineries to make sure they are not totally grounded.

All these culminated in the award of the TAM contract of both the old and the new Port Harcourt Refineries in Nigeria to Chrome Consortium.”

He, however, failed to explain why he delayed the contract execution until Jonathan lost the election.

Second Niger- Bridge In the same vein, the multi billion dollars Second Niger Bridge Project, a 11.9km length bridge structured under the Public Private Partnership (PPP) arrangement, using Design, Build, Finance, Operate and Transfer (DBFOT) model is not left out in frenzy of Buhari phobia .

The project whose ground-breaking ceremony was performed by Dr. Jonathan, is a strategic link between the South-East region and the rest of the country with enormous socio-economic benefits to the nation, Available reports indicate that the project was initially estimated to cost N108 billion excluding duties and value added tax, (if duties and VAT are included, the project cost is N117.9billion). This was equivalent to $700million at the then prevailing exchange rate of N154 to one dollar. However, experts in the road sector have forecast that the final project cost would naturally be affected by exchange rate fluctuations and other variables.

The project has been bogged by controversies, including the recent allegation by Governor Adams Oshiomhole of Edo State.

Oshiomhole that the Nigerian Sovereign Investment Agency has spent over N140billion on the projects consultancy alone.

Though Onolememen has described this as gross misrepresentation, a source at the Ministry of Works said the allegation is mischievous. The source corroborated what the

NSIA had earlier said that only $2.21million has so far been expended on consultancy for the project as against the N140 billion.

Giving the analysis of the expenditure so far made on the Second Niger Bridge, Mr. Uche Orji, the MD/CEO, said that NSIA has so far spent $2.2 million on the project, while $242 million was spent on due diligence and $1.96 million spent to get environment work done together with the financial muddling work, legal and contract, construction contract and concessional agreement.

“However, the sponsor of the project or the client is Federal Ministry of Works. They reserve the right to start early works and we supervise these early works to make sure it is in compliant with what will eventually become the public private partnership. But having said that the relative that the only money the NSIA out of its own pocket has spent is what is necessary of project development. And that is roughly at this stage, $2.2 million. $242 million was spent on due diligence to make sure that it can be done, can we do it, all those kind of things. $1.96 was spent to actually get environment work done, financial muddling work done, legal and contract work done, construction contract, concessional agreement. All of these things is all what costs money” he explained.

“There is still a lot of work to be done on getting to financial close. Financial close is when all the money is ready for Second Niger Bridge. We are still very far away. In fact, we haven’t signed the concession agreement.

Many have been done. Early work is showing preliminary piling and super-structure work has been completed. If you remember, last year, there was a challenge with the environmental impact analysis. We ended up spending a lot of time on it, publishing a report” he said. “But the good news is that we have received a certificate of satisfactory compliance from the Ministry of Environment for environmental assessment impact analysis. This significant project will take a long time. And frankly, as it is now, we have not invested beyond project.

Meanwhile a reliable source in Ministry of Works said that the access road to the site has been completed, and that the architectural design has also received adequate attention from relevant agency.

Also reacting to the insinuation that work in the project site has been halted, the source said that such view smacks of ignorance on the part of those that hold it, adding that CONTINUED on PAGE 19

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SUNDAY, SEPTEMBER 13, 2015 SUNDAY TELEGRAPH

Politics

Okowa’s foundation for wealth creation

I

Amaechi Udemba will build a legacy of wealth creation and prosperity in Delta State and focus on responsible inclusive and accountable government that will ensure equitable distribution of amenities in all the 25 local government areas and 270 wards of the state.

That was Dr. Ifeayin Okowa sometime in March during his electoral campaign for the most exalted position in Delta State.

He said having served at various times as Commissioner for Agriculture and Water Resources, Health and Secretary to the State Government; he was aware of the developmental needs of the state in the areas of education, health and will not shack in his responsibility if elected.

In the course of those campaigns, Okowa after having emerged as the Peoples Democratic Party governorship candidate also told farmers and artisans of his agricultural and industrial programmes.

At a no–holds-barred session in Delta Songhai Amukpe, he told the audience drawn from the Delta Central that that the two programmes then at the formative stage would be result driven both from organisational and demand perspectives.

To drive home his point, he threw the capacity conference hall into a thunderous applause when he said as governor; he would not hesitate to fire any government official who fails to show competence even if the official is a nominee of the PDP Campaign Organisation Chairman, Professor Sam Oyobaire.

But this piece is not to relive that Songhai event, even though it is not accidental that the same Delta Songhai is the melting pot of the agricultural and industrialisation schemes of the Delta State Government. Rather, this illustration of the Songhai experience is to lay a foundation upon which to ventilate my thoughts on why it was necessary for the state government to subject applicants for the Skills Training And Entrepreneurship Programme ( STEP ) and Youth Agricultural Entrepreneurs Programme (YAGEP ) to series of measures aimed at ensuring that those to be unveiled as entrepreneurs at the end of the exercise are impeccable persons whose selection was devoid of god-fatherism, - one of the key reasons why previous attempts at poverty alleviation have failed in the state.

In the past, a web of intrigues made non-

sense of government’s efforts to galvanise the youths into agriculture and other informal sectors despite huge budgetary allocation. Instead, past governments strutted the stage and extolled the virtues of a diversified economy with little or no visible impact on social infrastructure and welfare.

Therefore, as a precursor to a successful upstart of the STEP and YAGEP job and wealth creation schemes, the state government chose to embark on a one week orientation programme for the beneficiaries at Songhai Amukpe, Sapele Local Government Area, to prepare them for a new phase of life.

Interestingly, Delta Songhai modeled after the Integrated Rural Development and Entrepreneurship Centre of Songhai in Parakou Port Novo, Benin Republic had been the epicenter of support programmes aimed at stimulating the interest of the youths in sustainable agriculture and agro-business since it was created by the James lbori’s administration in March 2003.

In the last administration, it was Youth Empowerment through Agriculture (YETA) that Songhai Delta played host to as part of its contribution to food sufficiency and self employment.

However, poised to rarity the imperfections of YETA, and more importantly to that those to emerge from the 70,000 applicants for the Skills, Training and Entrepreneurship Programme ( STEP ) and Youth Agricultural Entrepreneurs Programme ( YAGEP), basks in the euphoria of personal integrity as a vigorous process of selection that is devoid of corruption was adopted.

It was a transparent and inclusive application process where forms for the programme were obtained online, a pre –qualification exercise based on objective eligibility criteria, a neutral scientific sampling method that trimmed down the number of prequalified applicants, interviews in each of the three senatorial districts to score the shortlisted persons on five key parameters ( communication, content, comportment, confidence and conviction), and picking from the highest scoring applicant downward to get the required trainees for each of YAGEP and STEP. Step by step, the Delta State government is inching closer to its avowed commitment to provide 6,000 direct jobs through Micro, Small and Medium Scale Enterprises (MSMEs) in line with the “Prosperity for all Deltans” mantra.

Already, 650 of the second batch are currently in Songhai having dispatched the first batch of 750 trainees to their local government area for a comprehensive training in the area of job and skill interest. These lucky folks are about to make history by becoming not just self-employed but employers of labour.

As many would readily confirm, global competitiveness is skill driven. The unemployment situation will never be overcome unless we follow the footsteps of Governor Okowa who has through his job and wealth creation scheme commenced a process to build a legacy of wealth creation and development.

Indeed, these are best of times for the people of Delta State.

•Udemba is Media Aide to Gov Okowa

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SUNDAY TELEGRAPH SUNDAY, SEPTEMBER 13, 2015

Politics

Aliero: Nobody can tackle insurgency in 100 days Senator Adamu Aliero (APC Kebbi Central), in this interview speaks on findings of his committee, the Senate’s Ad hoc Committee on Import Waivers Management and President Muhammadu Buhari’s the 100 days in office.

CHUKWU DAVID reports How would you assess President Muhammadu Buhari’s first 100 days in office?

Well, I can say that it has been so far so good for Mr. President within the last 100 days in office. He has achieved a lot. At least you have seen that the command and control of the war against Boko Haram are now in Maiduguri, the arena of insurgency. They have established a very good progress on the war against Boko Haram. They have succeeded in debilitating the insurgents, succeeded in incapacitating them to the extent that they are not able to attack the way they had been doing before. They have now resorted to guerrilla tactics of suicide bombings, by using very young ignorant people. It is very sad and very unfortunate that this is happening but generally speaking, it is expected that when you are dealing with this type of situation, total success is not always achievable within a short frame of time. However I am very optimistic that if the current tempo of war against the insurgents is sustained, in the next one month, they will be able to defeat Boko Haram. We may still have remnants particularly in rural areas but their command structure must have been completely decimated.

Insurgency worldwide has never been defeated within a short frame of time. Look at IRA; with all the sophistication of British Army and sophistication of British Intelligence, it took them more than 30 years to conquer them. Look at the Timor Tigers it took more than 40 years, look at the Iraqis’, it is now getting to about 30 years; look at the Afghanistan, it has taken over 20 years for the Taliban there to be defeated, even though at a particular time, not less than five modern powers were in Afghanistan to fight the Taliban.

Fighting insurgents like Boko Haram is like fighting somebody that has ideological problem caused purely by misguided ideology.

Most of the adherents of Boko Haram are people just acting under the pretext that they are Muslims, but we know they don’t have basic and clear knowledge of Islam. They are categories of half-baked religionists without

sound knowledge of religion they profess and even badly indoctrinated without being able to distinguish between what are right from what are bad. They are just acting on warped ideology, we only pray for them to have a rethink so that they can come back and take the right path.

You have given the President a pass mark on the war against insurgency, but he seems to be in the eye of the storm on appointments made so far, with many Nigerians describing these appointments as lopsided. What is your take on this?

Appointments have just started. People are being impatient. You can’t just balance appointments within the 100 days. The main appointments we are waiting for is the ministerial appointments and there is a clear guideline, constitutionally on that, with provisions that ministers must be appointed from every state of the federation.

In that case, no state will be marginalised but appointments made so far by Mr. President are those within his prerogative power or better put civil service appointments.

He can appoint anybody as his Chief of Staff or Secretary to Government of the Federation (SGF). Some of the appointments as earlier said, are civil service appointments like Comptroller- General of Customs, Comptroller-General of Immigration. So, may be if you are looking at Customs, go and look at what other geo-political zones have; it is then you can conclude that the appointment is lopsided. If you are looking at Immigration, go and look at the structure of the service. How recruitments were done.

In any case, I don’t want to make a premature statement on this allegation of lopsided appointment. I will rather wait till Mr. President makes his final appointments on the cabinet ministers before I can conclude on whether the appointments are lopsided or not but for now, as earlier said, the appointments he has made so far, are just for his kitchen cabinet by picking people he felt, can help him to deliver the promise made to the

people. To both the APC and Mr. President as the leader of the country; we want him to succeed; we want him to deliver on the promises made and don’t forget that PDP has been in the saddle for 16 years. We have not seen this kind of change of guard before.

In fact, since democracy was been installed, I never heard people passing comments on appointments made within the first 100 days without allowing the President to finish the whole appointments. People are just jumping the gun; let’s wait and see what happens.

Let’s look at the Ad hoc Committee on Waivers, which you are the Chairman. How far has the Committee gone on the assignment given to it by the Senate?

We have sent letters of invitations to Ministries, Departments and Agencies (MDA), to

give us relevant information that will help us to carry out the assignment given us very effectively, and in fact, unearth the rot waivers have caused in the system. We are very happy with the responses we have gotten so far from the MDAs. What we are doing now is to start compiling the report and make our recommendations.

Won’t the Committee hold a public hearing?

We will definitely hold public hearing. It is the last thing to be done by our committee but for now, we are looking at the responses gotten so far from the MDAs which they will further be tackled at the public hearing, after which we will collect information and then push it to the sub-committee in charge of writing the report. Public hearing is the last thing we will do.

Buharimania compels contractors back to sites C O N T I N U E D F R O M PA G E 1 7

works are on -going.

In the view of some insiders, works are on –going and that the contractors and all the stakeholders are not leaving anything to chance to ensure that the project does not fail, considering that the present administration will not treat contract failures with kid gloves.

A source at the Works Ministry also revealed that top government officials are in secret deals with different contractors aimed at covering past corrupt practices, since the search light of the anti-corruption of the present administration has no barrier.

Reacting to the return of the contractors to site, Second Vice-President of Nigeria Institute of Building, Kunlun Awobodu, an engineer, said that the development has both social and economic benefits to the nation.

“Bad roads hamper smooth transportation,

lead to heavy cost of vehicle maintenance and loss of man hours spent in the traffic,” he said.

Adding, though that their return will generate employments not only for construction workers but also manufacturer of basic construction content and supply of granite, sand and even asphalt. “Besides, many of our roads are in a bad shape due to collapse of the rail system, because repeated movement of haulage vehicles on the roads causes no little damage. But things will improve will improve with time,” he said.

Awobodu also commend the resumption of work on the Second Nigeria Bridge, arguing that since a combination of the LagosIbadan Express Way and the bridge is central to economic activities in the country, the nation stands to gain from it. He commended government efforts in this regard, but regretted though that the contractors would record little success during the rain season.

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SUNDAY, SEPTEMBER 13, 20

The Sunday Interview

Bamanga Tukur: My removal caused Jonathan’s defeat On Tuesday, elder- statesman and former National Chairman of the Peoples Democratic Party ( PDP) Alhaji Bamanga Muhammad Tukur joins the Octogenarian Club having reached the four scores milestone in life. At 80, BMT as he is fondly called, is still in good health, full of vigor and maintains a friendly disposition towards the old and the young. In this chat with newsmen as part of activities to mark his eightieth birthday celebrations, Tukur gave an insight into the political intrigues that led to his resignation as Chairman of the then ruling party in Nigeria. He also spoke on how the PDP could bounce back to reckoning as well as public assessment of the activities of the new administration in the country. Onwuka Nzeshi and Onyekachi Eze report How does it feel clocking eighty years of age?

I am most grateful to God for his grace in keeping me in good health and vigour all these years.

At 80, what do you consider as your happiest moment and saddest moment also?

My happiest moments is that I am sitting here now, healthy, happy and with you. And to thank God because it has been happiness every time. The happiest or saddest moments in one’s life is evolving every time. You cannot say this is my saddest moment. When one loses his parents, that should be the saddest moment. My saddest moment was when I lost my mother. That was the first time I really felt sad in my life. When you lose any of your parents is a sad thing and many years after it will still be there. But if you are a man of faith and you believe in what you believe, you will know that the world is always changing. Day changes to night; night changes to day. Cold change to hot; hot changes to cold. So, it’s like that and you take it like that but what you need to do is to brace up and know what to do at all time. Any time you are down, you endure it and then you get up again.

Your party, the Peoples Democratic Party is at a crossroad after suffering its biggest electoral defeats in history. As one of the founding fathers of the PDP, what are you doing to save the situation?

It is not about what is being done. When people get to the crossroad they go back to the wide road so that they will know their way...

First and foremost this is a democracy. In every democratic system you have the opposition and the party in government at any given time.

In democracy, it is the people who decide who rules them the people have decided . So be it.

Are you sure the party will rediscover itself?

Of course, it will. There is no doubt about it.

It is our party. The present leaders know that it is their own party. They must now sit down and try to find out what went wrong. After all, if you can rule for 16 years and the people allowed you and in the 17th year they say no, you better find out why they said no.

Going down memory lane, we want to know why you were removed as the PDP chairman.

Well, I thought that we have answered this question in the past; but any way, it is the sys-

tem. This is a democracy and my views are such that what I believe in is what I will preach.

If the majority or some strong people in the PDP do not believe in that, then of course, the next thing is for me to leave. Either I leave or they leave and I don’t want them to leave, so I had to leave. I left. When I preached election, the people said they wanted selection; when I preached internal democracy, people say imposition. It will be difficult for me to sit down and agree with them. Simple.

Some of the reasons adduced for PDP’s defeat at the polls are imposition of candidates and jettisoning of the zoning formula. If you were still on the seat as the chairman of the party, what would you have done differently before the 2015 elections?

Look, I had already told them what to do. As the chairman, I came up with a cardinal programme and that programme was a twelve -point agenda. If you remember the triple “R”, triple “E”, triple “D” and Consequences. I think that is what any good leader or manager of a party should do. Tell the people what you want to do and if they agree with you, which at the time, they did, then it is “carry go”. Nobody is faulting zoning. What we were saying is that let the people decide on what they want. This is the democracy we are talking about, the rule by the majority. After all, our party system is that it is owned by everybody. PDP has no owner, we are all stakeholders. Like if you go for an Annual General Meeting (AGM), if you want a share, you can be listened to and you can also be listened to if you want ninety - eight percent of the shares. In that forum, it is the system that will work and not the individual.

If you have been allowed to remain as chairman of PDP till after the 2015 election, would that have made any difference?

Let me tell you, when I was there we won elections and in the same vein, if I were there, I also expect we would have won the election.

After the election Adamu Muazu resigned, other NWC members are there but there are calls that they should all go. Do you think that is the solution to the problem?

You know to get the solution you have to look at the problem. I think that the problem is that the party did not win the last election. Therefore, the focus should be what should be done?

What has gone wrong? It is not about sending anybody away. No,No,No. It is not about individuals. Find out what was responsible for the loss. What are the causes?

For instance if you have malaria, you have to find out what are the causes of malaria? Maybe there are plenty mosquitoes around you. Then you try to eliminate the mosquitoes from the system so that the malaria can stop. I don’t think that the way some people are taking the issue is right. To me, for example, if there is a tree that has grown wild, you do not uproot the tree because you want to trim the branches. If you do that then, where will you get the fruit of the tree? As long as PDP continues, it is better to find out the reasons for the failure at the last elections. We must make sure that we go back to the members and bring them together. It is not a question of sending people away.

Since many bigwigs in the PDP have been crossing over to the APC, would you also leave your party?

That’s a good one. What do you want me to do? You want to change somebody’s character at 80? Is it possible? So let me tell you, at 80, you remain where you are because you cannot bend anymore. You have become unbendable or else you will break.

How would you assess the first one hundred days of President Muhammadu Buhari and his party, the All Progressives Congress?

(Laughs). Please, it’s not for me to assess.

Well, a hundred days in office has become a kind of syndrome ...( Laughs again). I don’t know because when Buhari came he told you he wants to confront corruption, insecurity, unemployment and power. So he has set his own agenda and he is going on with it. The nation is waiting to see how it goes. So how can you now tell me you have a landmark to access an institution like NEPA. Is it improving? Well I don’t know how to assess the insecurity. Are they fighting it? Is it moving? So, to me, they are going the right way; they are not derailing from what they said they would do.

Some Nigerians have expressed concern at Buhari’s probe of his immediate predecessor and the perceived lopsided appointments.

What are your feelings about these issues?

I earlier told you what they said is their agenda. As far as I am concerned he is going according to his agenda. So don’t ask me how I feel.

Bamanga Tukur

You can judge as well as I can judge.

President Buhari is about to name his cabinet, what calibre of persons do you expect him to appoint as ministers?

Don’t give job to who wants it; give the job to whom the job wants.

Your party has kicked against the appointment of Amina Zakari as the Acting Chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission.

What is your view on her appointment?

You said my party kicked against it. Or did you say me? The right persons to ask are the people at the leadership of the party.

Nigeria will be 55 years by October as an independent nation, as one who was aware of how it all started, will you say that the vision the founding fathers had for the country then is being fulfilled today?

SUNDAY

Fashion

Gingham glam

28&29

Bed, Work & Life

Don’t wanna wake up from this dream!

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Body Soul SUNDAY, SEPTEMBER 13, 2015

Service, to me, is joy

-Gbolahan Ayantayo, President Ikeja Lions Club

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Body&Soul

my heart m o r f t h g i a r t S

at the d found out th ate iv . I checked an pr up t om en fr t w bu ae s, orted bank , my antenn rp ts er pu e al t th ec om sp fr inate in su ’t officially orig t half an hour text messages d’ me for abou e Bank Verifi- emails didn ne ai et ‘d r ce the emails and s. in se offi th t r es ed welfo un dr id ta co ad ov l ac da pr ai y y hen m s, em ers may even pture m on the links ll in order to ca Out of politenes me bank custom dividual banks to ne could click So eo s. m er So m am the banking ha VN), mid 2014, I was angry. sc ld these s by in . He to r (B ctive measure e banks. as jargon then fall ‘mugun’ to cation Numbe d mails as proa ers of the stress of going to th d what I felt w . I’m sure I gave him and ite ne ai lic pl so ex un he ch paigns su en om m e th st ca m d s cu co an es se e I listened as en ea er blic awar pu r accounts th date my bank improve their services and r he up ei ot th to y r hat the e m fo w l m s s al ld k to lin and bank t now know me that I could ses then, but I remember he ll. I never gave it a thought round mend the CBN ybody with a bank accoun r m he co ot I an ha cu g ex on in se any bank tion exerci ld embark most ever in some flimsy ra al f ou , st el sh N gi ls to ys re ey BV m ne N e th d an k th BV un ch in r on e I fo line fo official ever, I th details anytim to beat the dead community of all about. How g sh is in ru N nk ad ba BV m e e th s th aint ts. cise ha again...until paigns to acqu to proe their accoun the BVN exer this year. ad’ in of cam for the BVN and synchronis matter of urgency in order ation e deadline for ‘m th as at w started in June e be lin to e ad a tu bl er de si m st as y 30 ra gi d nc re sc te ne e ge Ju ea . er th tr al , an em should be Suddenly get registered ys of the initi t, we will have authorised This, I think, The last two da e last minute frantic bids to for extension s savings. If no s start complaining of un er om abated again. ad st lls m cu ca s e er nk th er om ba ed st om ct ed st cu te he cu as ) g nk lls BN banking ha ers, includin of Nigeria (C with when ba vidual accounts. e Central Bank t-to-be-registered bank custom also help in to grapple di Thankfully, th to s from their in ye ed audsters. al n ut io aw to ill withdr er 14 m se that’s om Internet fr fr l al us t ec to enable the ov ora, to be part of the exerci ters. ot May God pr iasp frauds the those in the D s’ accounts from ctober 31, 2015 -to wrap up er om st cu nk adline - O two weeks ago: thought there are other securing ba ******* got a new de to my offering n en tio th sac su ur N re o way!! I un ’s BV y er e Th A read ul garden?? N an hiring someone to till yo oaches, man tif pr au ap e be y lin m ad l ng ed yi til de th , tr al w r e m ve ne ar he m re e ot m t ho th exercise.

H n w no e things conceptio fraudsters day, is that as sure have som l the while and the ey to Internet updating means of procuring pr of nd My concern, to ll e ie fa is fr rl ay gu gi e m s s th stomer , all in y and hi his girl al ing and pecting bank cu disclosing their bank details garden. The gu e neighbour had eyes for ’t have an inkl dn to di th in ’ s, nk un ly em ap ba th ug rh p ‘m ng Pe to gy here. and the ges aski tions.... Not on and text messa bank details via babe perhaps suggested it der he fell for the machina en ls rd ai ga em e th ss BVN online. le d’ date their . No won ingly harm d plundere lk less of customers to up der to perfect their BVN signed in headlong garden, he also ‘mined an Recently, seem s fused to bud ta spilled or hi re in s ll’ e, er ls ‘ti lin w ai y flo em gu e e e th at links on r th er iv d de ov pr di y on not cr n. No w e flooding friend should Can e (SMS) ckless abando registration, ar pollinate. Our the neighbour. atessaging Servic orted- with re to to M es t t be or on e fr Sh th e up r on fo id g od pa rp in m er he pu and ph m w ls co ey ai flo ac on em e so solicitous em forget about th ? Am not sure Naija men ar well? Lai lai, na pular inboxes. These n re y of the very po nk, milk and ow an he s m hi nd g om ou di fr ar e to at en It’s ly eman th, First Ba our who is such happ ni hb Ze ig do exchange? e , ne ad BA y/ U he gu g m e in hi th ud g ke cl . in bl ta in rs w lli s he no no gu nk ot K y ba g. to such hen dem s Bank and man y mind, I in h be that o. W ese so as to serve as lessons is for my sole is fin to m Fidelity, Acces ht of fig gs like th property at the back solicited good hearing of thin - Neighbours beware!! My With security s ecks on my un Lol ay ch d. w m ite ny or A rf lic ks . pe so lin usually men around n’t click on wanted nor rs do I ou , le hb ru ig a ne o emails and as enjoyment. N mole . lugbenga O I’m not sure of d getting emails with subO te So, when I star Deactivation Alert; CBN tongue’. **** nt ou cc in my ‘mama Juliet A e jects lik ine Disabled; Ze onse? I laugh nl sp tO re rs y Fi M rt le r A n he io ot at d in an rm Te ation ometric Valid nith Direct Bi

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Contents 13.09.2015 COVER Nothing stops you from putting smiles on people’s faces if your are comfortable

} 24-25

FASHION Keep things super simple and casual with a gingham shirt, chinos shorts

T h e Te a m Juliet Bumah (Editor) Wole Adepoju (Snr. Correspondent) Vanessa Okwara (Correspondent)

} 28&29

BEAUTY

While breast feeding is good for babies, it could be quite uncomfortable for some mothers

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What the Dashiki represents is deeper than African tradition itself

}30

Abiola Alaba Peters

MY PASSION I wear only those kinky and sexy stuff that enhance my look

} 23

GLAM DUDES

Biwom Iklaki (Correspondent)

Ugochukwu Nnakwe (Graphics) Edwin Usoboh (Graphics) +234 (0) 811 675 9770, +234 (0) 701 110 1014 julietbumah@gmail.com chibumah@yahoo.com

Associates

BED, WORK & LIFE She’s like a missing part of me. I feel my life will be complete with her. Jibola, I love Kim...but it’s a special kind of love. I want to protect her, be there for her...I just don’t understand w h a t ’ s happening to me now

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Helen Paul

Eyitayo Aloh

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Body&Soul

Sultry Kaduna-based actress, Happiness Johnson’s seven-year foray in the thespian industry may not have brought her fortune, but the talent is doing well with her Fairyangels Productions. The Edo State-born producer and actress, who has featured in over 20 videos, tells BIYI ADEGOROYE about her passion for exotic cars, perfumes and acting Tell us briefly about your background, family and career.

I am Happiness Johnson; I’m from Edo State, born and brought up in the North, Kaduna State in particular. I am from a family of five and I am an actress and a scriptwriter. I go by the name Fairyangel and I have been in the industry for about seven years.

What movies/music brought you to the limelight?

I have done some jobs in the past like Rejected Twins; Condom in my Boot, Transgression; Sinful Mary, which was shot in Accra, Ghana; The Governor’s Party and The Governor ’s Game; Perpetual Hindrance and Broken Hindrance.

I have some that are yet to be out, like Secondary School Vampires, Azuka the Evil Girl and others. But the movie I believe will give me that big break is the latest movie I did with John Okafor (Mr. Ibu) where I played the lead role of an innocent, naive village girl, whom all the young and old men in the village want to marry, but she falls in love with Okorie (Mr. Ibu) and marries him. The movie is named after Flavour’s music, Gollibe. This movie is like a time bomb.

Who or what inspires you in the industry?

The performances of actresses like Rita Dominic and Tonto Dike in the female category and those of Jerry Williams, Artus Frank among the men have been of immense influence. But much as I like Tonto, I want to say I love Dominic be-

Things I hate about men –Nollywood actress, Happiness Johnson cause of her calmness, carriage and composure. Though I have spent close to 10 years in Nollywood, I want to say that Rita Dominic is my idol Aside acting, are there other creative ventures you are into?

Aside acting, I run a little business, a very little business, hoping to go into other things in future; but things that won’t affect my acting career though.

Describe your style.

My style, hmm!

My style defines me. My style makes me who I am Happiness Johnson.

I’m just me with my own unique panache.

If you are going for a red carpet event, how long does it take you to dress up?

Hmm!!

If I’m going for a red carpet event, dressing up shouldn’t take more than an hour plus or two maximum.

What are your favourite designers, perfumes, watches?

Prada bags and perfumes, also Christian Dior ’s Kings and Queens perfumes. As for watches, I care for just a couple of the very nice ones. I just wear the ones that are really nice and look good on me. (Giggles) What is the most expensive item you have now?

The most expensive thing I have in my life? I can’t think of one now. I love clean cars great Honda products, SUVs and where possible, a Lamborghini, someday.

What is your passion – fashion passion, life passion etc?

My passion is my career. I am very passionate about it. You see, in life, your work is

your testimonial. It forms the basis for assessing you. The Bible says ‘have you seen a man good in his works, he will stand before kings, he will not stand before mere men.’

Taking a peek into your wardrobe, what kind of fashion items are we likely to see?

You might not find all what you might be expecting to see or you might. Much as I appreciate designer wears, I seldom go after big names when it comes to clothes or shoes. I wear only those kinky and sexy stuff that enhance my look; they could be Nigerian products; others could be imported Italian stuffs.

What are those fashion items you cannot do without?

Do I have? Hmm!! I think perfumes.

What fashion item can you never be caught wearing?

I cannot be caught wearing clothes that are too revealing.

Can you pose nude?

Nope! I can never pose nude. I’ll lose my honour, respect and dignity as a woman. It’s against my conviction and upbringing. My dad is a pastor and that has a strong influence on me.

Who is your favourite designer, local and international?

I don’t have a favourite designer.

I wear whatever looks good on me.

If you were not acting, what other profession would you have liked to be in and why?

If I was not an actress, I would have been a journalist because journalism plays the role of informing, educating and entertaining. These are the things we do as actors. A lot of lessons are contained in our movies which shape the society for good.

What do you like and dislike in a man?

I hate men that lie and cheat. I love faithful, responsible, supportive God-fearing men that are straightforward and honest.

Are you in a relationship and who is the guy?

I am single.

Has your career affected you in any way in your relationship with the opposite sex?

Well, not at all. My career has not affected my relationship with the opposite sex, at least not yet. I have not really had any embarrassing experience with the opposite sex on set.

Do you have tattoos?

Tattoos? Naa! I don’t have any.

Your philosophy in life.

‘Don’t expect anything from anyone so that you won’t be disappointed.’

Make one wish…

My wish is to get to the top of my game; put smiles on people’s faces and to live happily ever after. That sounds like a three-in-one wish.

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Body&Soul

I was once an apprentice Lion Jamiu Gbolahan Ayantayo was recently installed as the 36th president of Ikeja Lions Club in a classy and glamorous ceremony that had lots of important personalities in attendance. WOLE ADEPOJU engaged the flourishing entrepreneur in an interview session and he spoke about his humble beginning, plans and activities for Lions Club International How does it feel to be the new president of Ikeja Lions Club?

Thank you very much. Like I always tell people, ascending to a position is not the ultimate; the ultimate thing is the joy of service. Being the 36th president of my club, Ikeja Lions Club, it gives me pride. It strengthens the joy in me that I have been able to serve since I joined Lionism through Ikeja Lions Club about seven years ago. So, becoming the president of Ikeja Lions Club is a thing of pride to me and it will make me more committed to service because this year is a year of service.

Your personality must have played a role in the success of your investiture and high profile guests that were present. How does this make you feel?

It’s God’s doing because anything we do in life, we should put God first. I thank God for the day and I thank God for how the programme went. I prayed that God should give us the day and it happened just like that. It was not my person; it’s just what I have so much passion for. I believe in humanity, I believe in service, I believe in doing to others as you want them to do to you. So, in my life, I like to treat my fellow beings fairly and justly. The more you put smiles on peoples’ faces, the more you get back to yourself. And whatever good you do to others, you don’t expect the reward immediately. The event which you say caused my personality to draw people, I think it was a great job that I did. We have seen events which were be well planned but at the end of the day, you would find few people in the hall.

God crowned our effort. The people that were there were people who are confident, they have trust in you, and they have trust in your cause.

And I want to use this medium to say thank you to everyone that made it down or contributed to the success of the event.

What are the responsibilities of this new position and how much impact do you intend to make?

This is a great year for all Lions all over the world. When I went for European forum in Birmingham last year, the motto was ‘Strengthening the pride in Lionism’. Now, the international Lion’s present theme is ‘How you can go about to attain dignity through what you can do to humanity’. This is stressing the emphasis on sowing the seed of har-

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Body&Soul

mechanic - Gbolahan Ayantayo mony among humanity in order to attain dignity. So, this is a year where we have to look into our community because our community is our world, our world is our pride. What I want to place a premium on is our community; we want to look at the youth. If you observed at the investiture, many of the special guests were from my constituency which is Agege and that is why I place a premium on most of my projects there. The schools that have dilapidated toilet facilities, some students have no bench or chairs to sit on, I have visited so many schools in my area and I have seen the state they are and this is the society that has given so much to people like us and how do we give back to this society? It’s through organisations like this because this is what an organisation like this is known for all over the world. This is an opportunity to give back as the president of my club to my immediate community and we have chosen some schools that will benefit from our projects. We have programmes for schools, for the youths.

We have enlightenment programmes, empowerment programmes which are our core areas and, of course, the reading action programme, that is RAP. We can see that the reading culture among our young ones is not encouraging, so we are trying to bring it back. Basically, this year is a year of service and we have lots of programmes.

What are the basic requirements for anyone who craves to be a Lion?

It’s just to have that philanthropic and humanitarian passion. If you can just have the passion to help others, that is number one. You must be ready to serve without having any reward. Once you have that, just look around for any Lions Club close to you or of your choice, you visit their meeting; it is not a secret cult.

You visit their meetings twice and if you feel that these are like minds and people you can co– exist with, you can now register your interest. They will give you some conditions like the payment of dues and other things that are involved; how you can be active, attending their activities, coming around to see how you can make your contributions but basically the interest must be there.

Can you recollect how your path crossed with Lionism? What was the attraction?

Like I said, the attraction was purely service. I belong to the old students’ associa-

tion of my former school and in most of our meetings, I discovered we were not able to put most of our contributions together and impact meaningfully. And how else can I serve? How else can I be of help to humanity? Melvin Jones, that’s the founder of Lionism, he was just in a business meeting with some other colleagues in a restaurant, he peeped from the window and saw people feeding from the dustbin. He wondered how and why people would be feeding from a dustbin while they were there having the best they could get and he felt something should be done. And from there, the idea of International Lions Club came about. Coming back to your question, the attraction, I used to be invited to their events. Sitting with them, I discovered that they were just serving humanity. They were doing one thing or the other for humanity - visiting schools, babies’ homes, providing bed spaces in hospitals, wheel chairs and so on. I feel when you are comfortable, there is nothing stopping you from putting smiles on people’s faces and that was it for me.

What is the greatest sacrifice you have made as a Lion?

Every day of our lives, we make sacrifices. As a Lion, you continue to make sacrifices. Is it the meetings we attend you want to talk of, because we normally start and close late? We start by 6pm. When you attend Lion’s events, one can actually use that time to do personal things but by expending it on service to humanity, it’s a sacrifice.

As Lions, we sacrifice our time, our money and every-

thing we have just to see that some people out there can smile. We travel; we were at Uyo and Ibadan last year. We just came back from the US. When you make these trips and see what Lions are doing internationally, you will see that what we are doing is child’s play. In the advanced world, they don’t joke with service and that is why we are more determined to go many steps further. And as the president of Ikeja Lions Club, I am more prepared for more sacrifice.

How do you juggle Lions’ activities with the home front and business, especially now that you are the president?

It’s God that has been taking charge of that and he will continue. Yes, one’s job is worthy of all the attention because that is where you make the little you put together to help humanity. More so with the kind of job I do, you have to be on your toes but we still try to create time as much as service requires. As for the family, I don’t babysit and I have my wife who takes full control of the house perfectly well. And the same thing is applicable to the office; there are people I delegate functions to. And thank God for the Internet, modern communication through which you can relate with people wherever they are. You can communicate wherever you are in the world and keep the business going. Basically, it has not been easy but the joy is that you can see the impact you are making.

Aside service, are there unwritten responsibilities being a Lion places on you in the public space, for example, how you conduct yourself and so on?

Yes. That is one aspect of the club I find so good and we manifest it in the society; and that is why we don’t take leadership training lightly. Every now and then, we conduct training for members and the executive members of the club in order to know etiquette and what is expected of you in the society at every point in time.

Are disciplinary measures taken against members who misbehave on the home front, like wife battery?

That is a personal matter… like I said earlier, what we do is to give training

so when you have issues at home, as a leader, you know how to control yourself and handle your domestic issues.

At meeting time, we have disciplinary measures against erring members. There are members that have been sanctioned before, there are members that have been fraudulent to other members in the club but we don’t interfere in domestic issues.

That is why we are not ethnic and religions are not to be discussed. This is because those are issues that are capable of bringing conflict and we don’t encourage that.

It is obvious your club can absorb people who are gainfully engaged. What happens when members who have been forthcoming with their dues lose their source of income?

This is a voluntary organisation where you are coming to serve with your time and money. When you don’t have such opportunity to serve anymore, you can withdraw and you don’t partake in anything but your membership still remains valid until you feel you can come back again. You are expected to pay your dues by yourself. That is why it’s designed in such a way that we have the Alpha Leo for secondary school students; we have the Leo, the unemployed that still want to serve. We give them subvention for the year from our own account. For people who have been active but the power is no longer there, their names will be there but other members will be carrying out their functions. That is part of the leadership we are talking about. For the mere fact that somebody has inability to live up to tasks for a while does not mean he will not spring back.

Lastly, can you let us into your background?

To God be the glory, I have been able to attain this level by the training of my father who passed on while I was doing my IT in Kaduna in 1993. My father was a disciplinarian. He enrolled me in State Primary School, Oyewole, from there to secondary school at the same Oyewole.

While I was looking for admission, rather than stay at home doing nothing, my father enrolled me in a friend’s workshop as an apprentice where I was learning mechanical engineering. My master specialised in Mercedes Benz. I was there for about two years before I gained admission to study printing technology at Yaba College of Technology and I was there even for my HND. After my service, I joined Punch Newspapers where I worked till 2003 after which I put minds together with my brother to form a partnership business in printing. This is where we are today. We started in 2003. And to God be the glory, I got married in that same 2003. My first child, Mubarak, was born that same year after which I had two more, Aliyah and Malik. So, God has really blessed me and I have cause to thank God and give back to the society.

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Body&Soul

with

Juliet Bumah +234 81 1 675 9770

julietbumah@gmail.com

Don’t wanna wake up from this dream!

V

al got home very late the night he hung out with Kim. He dropped her off at home and hooked up with Jyhbo who wanted to see him urgently that night. Sandra had been crying to his friends.

He had told Jhybo in clear terms that he was done with Sandra. He wouldn’t tolerate her excesses anymore.

“If you want to see her often, you can actually take over. As for me, I’ve had enough of her wanting to take over and rule my life,” he had told his bossom friend.

“Is it that bad?” Jyhbo had asked and he nodded.

“Does it have to do with ‘accident girl?” Jyhbo asked and Val glared at him.

They stare at each other for a few seconds. He meant Kim. That’s what his friends call her. Val didn’t take kindly to it each time they referred to Kim as ‘accident girl’. They still do though. For Jyhbo to call her that, right to his face, meant he was fishing for trouble.

He was, his next words said so.

“Look Sam...I mean...Val, since you had that accident, everything has changed. Your name, your relationship with Sandra....in fact your life has changed,” he said.

Val took a deep breath and said, “Not exactly Jibola. My name didn’t change.

You’ve always called me Val anytime my old man is around. I thought I could put up with Sandra’s excesses but I just realised that getting married to her would lead to an early grave. I want to be happy in marriage. Dad’s experience is what I don’t want to go through. He married to please his parents and was never happy till their last day together. He took to drinking and you know what it cost him, health-wise. I don’t want to please anybody, even my wife. I want a woman that will be happy with me, whatever my shortcomings. I want a woman that I will love so much that I’ll be blind to her shortcomings. Each day, I keep noticing things I can’t stand in her and each day, she keeps wanting to change me into who I’m not. It can’t work. As for Kim, I don’t exactly know what is happening to me. She’s like a missing part of me. I feel my life will be complete with her. Jibola, I love Kim... but it’s a special kind of love. I want to protect her, be there for her...I just don’t understand what’s happening to me now.”

He trailed off and for minutes, they sat, lost in their individual thoughts.

Jyhbo understood. When a man gets to this stage, then something must give.

Knowing his friend, Dr. Sam...er...Val had made up his mind. He smiled. Everything about his friend had changed.

Everybody had joined his father in calling him Val outside their home. Seems only Sandra now calls him Dr. Sam. How life changes!

He ordered for drinks. They shared a bottle of red wine...then another.

Val knew he shouldn’t have taken more drinks but in his confused state of mind, he had done a little more than he could handle. When he left Jyhbo about two hours later, he had planned to drive home and hug his pillow.

It was not to be though. His father was still up and sitting in his favourite ottoman in the living room.

“Good evening dad,” he said, surprised.

“Fine night son. You haven’t kept as late as this in a long while. What’s the business?” His father asked casually.

“Dad, you shouldn’t be up so late. You need to rest more,” he said and flopped into a chair.

“Val, my son, if you’ve slept the number of hours I’ve done in my life, I’m sure you will be sleeping less by now.

Now, tell me, where went you? Can’t remember the last time you kept this late,” his father said, adding, “You can join me,” as he raised a glass of wine.

“Thanks dad, but no. I’ve had more than enough for a day. I actually took Kim out. We shared a bottle of wine and I shared another with Jyhbo,” he said.

“You went out with Kim?” His father was alarmed.

“Nothing happened, father. At least, you trust your son and heir to your throne. I can’t stab a brother in the back. I mean Sam. You know he’s not back from the village. I took Kim out to keep her company. Dad, that young lady has passed through a lot in her life.

She opened up to me,” Val said.

His father had relaxed a bit when he assured him that nothing happened between them.

“What exactly do you mean? What has she passed through? Tell me son, don’t keep an old man waiting,” dad said, anxiously.

“Hahahahahaha dad, the expression is, don’t keep a lady waiting,” Val said.

“Whatever, tell me about her past,” his dad said, leaning forward.

Val intended to gloss over it but buoyed by the fizz and wine in his system, he regaled his father of his conversation with Kim. By the time he was done, the look on his father’s face was indescribable.

“Oh no, she has gone through a lot,” he said softly.

“Yes dad, we must do something for her,” Val said.

“Think of something and let me know,” his father said. ****** It’s been exactly one month since Kim’s private outing with Val. A lot has happened since then. Sam has just

resumed in one of Val’s father’s numerous companies as a manager. He has a Sports Utility Vehicle as an official car and is planning to move into a mansion-like official house.

It’s like a dream. The transformation from a struggling young man to a ‘big boy’ is so sudden. His salary now is four times what he was earning, with prospects of travelling abroad often. In fact, he’s going for a course in the UK in a fortnight.

“Babe, I’m going to do you proud.

You’ve brought so much good luck my way. I’m going to be the best man any woman will wish for. You wait and see,” Sam said.

They are in Sam’s house...on the bed.

He’s admiring her now obvious bump after a cool intimate session. Life has been good to them. She’s almost living with him permanently.

They had gone to her village to meet her grandma and her aunties, two weeks ago and grandma was ecstatic.

She sang and danced round the compound, thanking God for making Kim a responsible lady after all. Grandma had been scared she would end up like her mother or even worse.

Her family welcomed Sam’s family.

Nobody quarreled over her pregnancy.

They were joyous.

“Welcome my children. You are most welcome. You will conclude with Kim’s uncles,” grandma had told Sam’s people when they were about to leave.

It was a grand occasion. Val’s father had provided everything Sam needed for the introduction ceremony. He said he would stand in as his father.

He’s just God sent to their family.

“My visa should be ready at the end of this week. You know what? Chief said he’s giving me money to shop for you,” Sam said, jolting her from her reverie.

He traces lines on her tummy, making her squirm.

“What? Val’s dad said what? Give you money to shop for me? Wow! God bless that man for me. God bless Val for me and that cabbie too. If he didn’t crash into Val’s vehicle, this good fortune wouldn’t have come our way. I have seen him twice...I mean the cabbie. I’m inviting him to our wedding,” Kim said.

At that very moment, Sam’s phone rings, Val’s father.

They talked for a while. Sam said very little. He listened more like...

“Yes....yes...yes sir. I will...sir…” Those were what Kim heard.

“Chief wants to see you in his house tomorrow morning,” Sam told Kim after his phone conversation with Val’s father.

“See me? For what?” She asked.

“He didn’t say,” Sam replied, adding, “I guess we just have to wait.”

“Wait? Will I be able to sleep this night? How did he sound? Upset? I don’t know what to make of this sudden invitation,” she said. ****** What does Val’s dad want to see Kim for? Is anything wrong?

I can’t wait to read what happens next.

Why not join me here on Sunday so we find out together?

•Send your observations to: julietbumah@gmail.com

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SUNDAY TELEGRAPH, SUNDAY SEPTEMBER 13, 2015

Body&Soul

Beauty guide for breastfeeding moms Biwom Iklaki

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reastfeeding has been touted to be the best form of nutrition for a newborn all the way till at least six months of their lives. It however, while being so great for the babies’ physical, mental and emotional health, could be quite uncomfortable for some mothers.

This is not usually because of breastfeeding in itself, but some side effects or wrong practices.

For one to feel beautiful while breastfeeding, a few guidelines need to be followed: 1) Prenatal breast and nipple care. Old midwife tales have it that in your last four to five weeks preterm, you could avoid sore nipples during breastfeeding by using a cotton ball or soft cloth dipped in petroleum jelly or Shea butter and cleaning the nipples and areolas gently

but firmly, preferably after a shower. This removes dirt and dead skin. Massage and pull/tug gently at the nipple (especially necessary in cases of inverted nipples).

when you are going out as the milk may leak and stain your clothes. This, like sweat, can be pretty stinky and cause a foul odour around you.

2) Proper latching of baby to nipple.

This technique must be taught to new mothers during antenatal and at first feeding. If you do not get this step right, chances are, you will not escape nipple sores and bruising. The trick is to put the nipple on the upper lip of the baby, while s/he opens their mouth widest to catch the nipple; you slip in the nipple as far as possible with part of the areola.

5) If you already your nipples, this must be a difficult time for you as breastfeeding becomes a hellish chore when it occurs. You can care for the nipples by bathing them with warm water and applying a nipple

3) You must have wipes or water on hand before breastfeeding the baby. You should clean the nipple with a wet cloth or water-base wipes.

4) Always use breast pads, especially

have sores on

cream. You could also steep chamomile teabags and apply to the area when they are still warm. Petroleum jelly could work too, but you must always wipe the nipples with a wet cloth before feeding the baby.

Body&Soul

SUNDAY SEPTEMBER 13, 2015, SUNDAY TELEGRAPH

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ingham was predicted ‘the print of spring 2015’ and it’s truly living up to this forecast as international fashion runways and the streets are filled with this wonderful ‘check’ print.

Stylists, models and celebrities embrace it and create beautiful outfits from this fun print. The classic picnicfriendly textile was fashioned in a way that feels new and fresh.

Gingham is a checkered pattern also called plaid. We saw it in many recent ready to wear collections appearing in different fabrics, colours and clothing options.

shirt, chinos shorts, and comfy flats. You can opt for a gingham shirt and a cute skirt. Add a belt for a unique touch.

Tuck your gingham button-down into a pair of solidcoloured trousers for a more polished look. A bright belt keeps the outfit fun. Be bold and mix gingham with another pattern or print. The key is to keep the same colour scheme going.

Gingham trousers and tights are fun, preppy, and perfect for a casual day out. Pair them with solid top and bright shoes. For finishing, accent the print with neutral tones and structured accessories.

Editor’s current obsession

Lots of ladies like to wear it as street style for everyday outfits.

To work the trend in your wardrobe, try it in small doses -head-to-toe gingham can be tricky and overwhelming, although it can also be pulled off successfully if you know the accessories to compliment it.

Gingham shirt and a pair of distressed denim can look super simple and comfy with a pair of sneakers. Gingham dress can be so cute; you don’t need to add much except for a pair of wedges or cute pointy toe shoes.

Keep things super simple and casual with a gingham

Gingham glam G

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SUNDAY SEPTEMBER 13, 2015, SUNDAY TELEGRAPH

Body&Soul

Dashiki swag

Kennedy Aziagba

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he Dashiki is a popular African wear which is now trending in the international fashion scene.

It is usually loose-fitted, has an ornate V-neck and sometimes an embroidered neck and sleeve line.

It has been in existence since the 19th Century and is the new trend in today’s world. Every young man out there who loves fashion has at least one Dashiki in his wardrobe; it symbolises African pride and gives you that ‘I’m proud to be African’ mien.

A Dashiki is perfect for any individual no matter the age group, young or old. It comes in varieties to suit your tastes.

This unique African wear is overtly popular and also worn by

individuals who are not African. Today you can see a white man sporting a Dashiki and feeling fly because it is stylish.

What the Dashiki represents is deeper than African tradition itself.

About a year ago, it wasn’t so popular in the fashion world, neither would you find it in the fashion shops around town, but today, it’s one of the first clothes you see in shops.

It is a simple, colourful, comfortable wear which can be worn to different occasions and if it’s your desire to customise it to suit your personal taste, it can be done, as long as you have a good tailor who will make it more fashionable.

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SUNDAY TELEGRAPH, SUNDAY SEPTEMBER 13, 2015

Body&Soul

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Don’t give up on love just yet!

CONNECT NG

et’s say you’re in your late 30’s or older, and despite years of dating and maybe some close calls or near-misses, you are still single. As the year gradually descends towards the end of 2015, are you on the verge of giving up on love?

Maybe you were unfortunate to be in a relationship for a very long time with this person, only for him/her to wake up one morning and announce that the relationship is over. Where has the time gone? You ask. Oh yeah, it’s gone towards fighting, bickering, making up, fighting, not getting along, not seeing the handwriting clearly on the relationship wall and then the heartbreak. After this, you promise not to be with anyone else ever again.

Never again will you open up to someone. Never again will you give your body to someone. Never again will you fall in love.

All the same, that is still not enough reason to give up on love or wallow in self-pity. Look at it this way: maybe God wants you to meet a few wrong people so that when the right person comes into your life, you will know how to be grateful for that special gift.

Love comes to those who still hope; even though they have been disappointed countless of times by those they felt loved them back. It is your inner resolve not to give up that will propel you to wake up from your feeling of despondency and allow yourself to love again. The worst thing you can do to yourself is to retreat into your shell like the snail as a way of self-preservation. You need to give yourself the opportunity to love again.

I

vanessaonsunday@yahoo.com Perhaps you have given your heart to someone only to have it crushed right in front of you? Rejection causes people to doubt whether they are lovable. This is not acceptable. Just because someone chooses not to love you, does NOT mean you are not lovable. Love comes from within, it is not granted by another. After years of disappointment, heart break and unhappy endings, it can be very easy to close down on real love. No matter what, don’t let that happen!

There’s something so amazing about having someone in your life that truly

Rather go for someone who makes you smile, because it takes only a smile to brighten a dark day. Go for someone who thinks the world revolves around you even when they see you looking unkempt

understands you, loves you just as you are and is not trying to change you into the version of what he/she wants you to be. So your goal is to work towards finding this person and overcome the feelings of depression and loneliness trying to overwhelm you. This is what you should be working towards and it is not so difficult to achieve.

Also, you need to set realistic relationship goals. Know exactly the kind of man or woman you desire and work towards being the kind of individual that will attract such a person.

It’s funny when you read the criteria some people set for the kind of man or woman they wish to marry. When did you become so perfect and flawless that you immediately expect this from someone else? It’s okay for you to have a crooked tooth, gray hair, a few extra pounds, not live in a mansion, not drive a BMW, not have a job that pays over five million naira per annum, but your future Mr. or Mrs. Right must have and be all of those things? Stop it. Really, stop it. You can always have expectations, but be realistic and do not go seeking in someone else ALL of the things you don’t have.

Work on yourself. While I believe

that there is absolutely nothing wrong in dating up or aspiring to marry well like we say in this part of the world, I also know that you have to bring something to the table as well.

Whether it is financially, spiritually, emotionally or mentally, you have to be fulfilled with yourself and able to add to someone’s life before anyone else can fill your life and heart with their love.

One piece of advice I always give to people who come to me for counsel is this: don’t go for looks, they can deceive; don’t also go for wealth, even that can develop wings in the middle of the relationship and take flight and the person remains a pauper forever.

Rather go for someone who makes you smile, because it takes only a smile to brighten a dark day. Go for someone who thinks the world revolves around you even when they see you looking unkempt.

If you have been hurt in recent times by the person you love, I’m here to tell you that it’s not over. When one door of happiness closes, another one will definitely open, but oftentimes, we look so long at the closed door that we fail to see the new door that has just opened and is beckoning us to come in and find happiness. Most times, the great love you desire in your life has been lurking in the shadows waiting for you to look in that direction and discover it.

So don’t ever give up on love. It might just meet you the minute you finish reading this write-up. I wish you all the luck in the world!

•Send your views to the email above!

When beauty becomes the beast in us all

n one of Disney’s classic, Beauty and the Beast, which, unknown to many is actually an adaptation of a folktale by French writer, Jean Marie Beaumont, the female character is willing to dance, cook and serve the ugly beast up to the point of marrying him. Now, I have always wondered if this is not some fostered gender stereotype, wondered if the result would have been the same if the roles were reversed and the beast were the woman?

Would the man still be supportive?

Well, I had the answer to my questions recently when news agency, Emirates 24/7, reported that an Algerian groom is suing his wife for $20,000 a day after the wedding as he believed his wife deceived him into the wedding with heavy make up during the courtship and he only saw the ‘real’ woman the day after the wedding. He even added the funny bit that he thought he was being robbed by a thief in the morning when he saw his wife.

The details are sketchy and I can assume the news agency put it up for some entertainment and amusement. However, it also points out some seriously flawed part of our society that we must tackle as a first step to rooting it out of our system eventually.

It seems that no amount of religious piety or claim to some moral high ground has taken away the desire to be body and beautiful.

Therefore, we are ready to spend any amount on cosmetics and skin toning cream and soap. We have even gone further and now invest-

ing heavily in surgical operations to enhance almost every part of the body and if I may digress briefly, this is not limited to women, even men are reaching deep into their pockets in order to alter body parts in the surgical theatre.

However, to go back to my somewhat disappointed Algerian groom, his case is a reminder of what we have lost, how superficial we now are and how the female gender is still seen as a tool in a world where masculinity is still considered powerful and feminity, well, just the opposite. Let’s even consider the circumstances, a marriage ceremony.

Now, I guess the woman resorted to so much cosmetic to look beautiful that her husband did not recognise her because the society considers the woman without an husband to

be a stain on the society. I am all for the culture that promotes a happy family but when we now consider a single woman to be a stain rather than helping them cope, we add to their pain. So, why do we now blame them for going to extreme measures in order to fulfil the society’s desire and expectation. Just the other day, I saw an advert on Facebook by a makeup artist and in it, it featured brides being transformed from maids into queens, big pimples clad faces being turned into spotless divine ones with the power of cosmetics. Now, if anyone ever wondered why they call themselves artists, look no further than those transformed brides.

Do I see the Algerian groom being awarded $20,000? Not in this life!

And even if the court awards him

We must all begin to change our perception, begin to find out what it is that we hold dear. We must stop glorifying the beauty that only come on the surface of the skin and look deeper at the person within

such amount, all the human rights group in the world will not let it be paid; at least not by the woman. In fairness, if anyone owes the groom, then it is the society and our emphasis on all things physical; beauty, power, strength, muscles.

The culture of putting emphasis on these physical attributes at the expense of such virtues as loyalty, honesty and morality is the reason why maidens desirous of husbands must also device new ways of getting their way.

We all must also stop making women out to be tools, A man may boast of his unfaithfulness, fraternise with his children out of wedlock and display his mistress at the same party he is holding his wife, and the woman is not allowed any of such pandering. We must all begin to change our perception, begin to find out what it is that we hold dear. We must stop glorifying the beauty that only come on the surface of the skin and look deeper at the person within. This was the order of marriage in the past, older women will go into the wellness room and instruct women on their new role and how to make their husbands happy, not with cosmetics, but with good behaviour. Now, that still has a place in the modern world and I am willing to stake my reputation on it. Beauty and the Beast can work both ways, and the society we live in must be willing to accommodate this, plus, just who gets to decide what is beautiful and what is not?

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SUNDAY SEPTEMBER 13, 2015, SUNDAY TELEGRAPH

Body&Soul with

Wole Adepoju 07037763410

woleadepoju@yahoo.com

Dangote, Otedola find missing link F

Sally Mbanefo’s challenges

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ight skinned and beautiful Sally Mbanefo, after her training as a lawyer, has been very fortunate to have enjoyed a hitch-free career.

She moved up the ladder to becoming a director in This and That company, thereby enjoying a flourishing life. She became a public office-holder few years back after Otunba Segun Runsewe was removed as the boss of the Nigerian Tourism Development Cooperation and she was named the new directorgeneral.

Since she assumed that position, she has had a number of challenges. Although insiders say these issues bear the imprints of her detractors, it has not been easy for the gorgeous Sally to keep her eyes focused on her assignment. Some members of NTDC staff have not helped her cause with incessant questions about leadership and funds belonging to the agency. Sally never appeared to be bothered, even as she went ahead to celebrate her 50th birthday not long ago. Even at that, she is doing all she can to keep out of trouble and to keep the organisation on track.

Mbanefo

ortunate to have been delivered into one of the wealthiest, noblest and famous families in the northern part of the country, Aliko Dangote discovered his strong point at a relatively young age. With strong traits of commitment and zeal to do serious exploits, he received some financial assistance from his maternal grandfather. Today, it’s a successful and inspiring story as Aliko currently rates among the richest in the world. He is also the richest African.

Acting in conformity with the idea of proverbial birds of a feather flocking together, it was only normal when the Kano-born businessman found a reliable friend in fellow billionaire and Chairman, Forte Oil, Femi Otedola. Both became artificial twins since they have a lot in common. The slight difference in age and ethnic origin did not pose a barrier to their healthy friendship as they were

seen as best friends. The two were so close that they were reportedly sharing the same abode. One of the factors that have over years been known to be a potential in breaking bonds reared its ugly head between them and the once happy family broke into camps.

The matter was eventually resolved by close associates and the ugly situation was brought under control. From all indications, it may not be out of place to say both billionaires have put the unfortunate incident behind them and rekindled their enviable friendship.

The man behind Dangote Group of Companies, Aliko, and son of a former governor of Lagos State, Michael Otedola, Femi, are now usually spotted together just the way it used to be. Dangote was on hand to support his pal, Femi, when the latter ’s daughter, DJ Cuppy, hosted an entertainment event recently.

Adegbite Sijuwade scores another goal

Titi Atiku spotted I T

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rince Adegbite, the handsome son of late imperial majesty, Oba Okunade Sijuwade, Olubuse 2, the Ooni of Ife, was the cynosure of all eyes some weeks ago. This was when he was about quitting bachelorhood, just few days after his father’s death was reported. Though Ifew chiefs said his highly respected father would attend the event, this did not happen.

Gbite, as the prince is fondly called, got married to celebrated Adegbite television p e r s o n a l i t y, Dolapo Oni, in an elaborate way, though not without the absence of the monarch being felt.

Fresh information reaching Celeb Lounge has it that the new groom has recorded just landed a mouthwatering deal with his Italian partners. The deal was sealed at the Burj Al Arab hotel in Dubai. Gbite, a director in his father’s conglomerate, The Sijuwade Group, is also said to be perfecting moves to taking an Advanced Management course at the prestigious Harvard University, United States. Meanwhile, he will echange vows with Dolapo in October at Dorchester Hotel, London.

iti Atiku, Ilesha, Osun Stateborn wife of former Vice President and Tu r a k i Adamawa, Alhaji Atiku A b u b a Atiku k a r, may not ordinarily who would want to be one regularly feature at social gatherings or public functions. But her days at the seat of power, as the wife of the vicepresident, coupled with the status of her husband which no doubt rubbed off on her, have kept her in the spotlight.

Since the end of the elections in which she vigorously campaigned for her husband’s party, the All Progressives Congress, Titi has returned into her shell. She was, however, recently spotted when she stepped out to be part of a social function. As if she had reluctantly stepped out, Madam Atiku, spotting a brown apparel, kept her cool and maintained her corner while her stay lasted at the party which was held at Lekki in Lagos.

Fernadez cuts huge image in death

t is certainly no longer news that diplomat and multibillionaire Nigerian, Antonio Dehinde Fernandez, died recently at the age of 86 in faraway Belgium. What may be of interest is the unusual thing about his own demise as it looks like he has set a pace.

He has maintained that same significance in death just like he did while he lived. While he lived, not everyone was abreast of events as they unfolded with him but his death has caught the attention of many. Those who never really knew much about him are curious and the source of attraction is no other than tales of his stupendous wealth as well as the flamboyant life he lived.

As he’s being celebrated as well as becoming a subject of discussion, many more people are picking interest in the personality called Fernandez. He set tongues wagging on the display of affluence when his sprawling magnificent home was showcased by Bashorun Dele Momodu in his publication, Ovation, some years ago.

The late flamboyant billionaire made his mark as a businessman early in life from mining. His business interests in oil and gas as well as real estate cut across Nigeria, Angola, France, United States to mention a few. He owned choice properties Fernadez around the world, includ-

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Body&Soul

Thinking

ing an Island in New York. He was also a diplomat of note who served at various times as Ambassador Plenipotentiary to a number of countries in Africa. Until his death, he was Permanent Representative of the Central African Republic to the United Nations. He was married to Aduke, whom he divorced over a decade ago. The most popular among his children is a former commissioner in Lagos State, Mrs. Teju Philips.

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A

rdent readers of this page will recollect that it was served a few weeks ago that the Esama of Benin Kingdom, Sir Gabriel Igbinedion, would clock 81 and that plans were in the offing to make the celebration a memorable one. The train of the birthday eventually kicked off on September 4 with a service in his honour at St. Matthew’s Anglican Church, Benin.

A service was also held in his honour at a worship centre built in his compound, God’s Historical Chapel, while different groups have also paid him visits. As part of the event, Esama paid a courtesy call to his privately owned media organisation, Independent Television, and he also received guests and dignitaries.

Frank Okamigbo Sola Oke back to returns drawing board he personality with the name Frank angling light skinned legal prac- T titioner turned politician, Olusola Oke, broke into national prominence about three years ago when he dusted all the supposed political big wigs in his party, Peoples Democratic Party, to clinch its governorship ticket. Although Ondo State Governor, Dr. Olusegun Mimiko, who ran on the platform of the Labour Party, won the election, Oke has since remained in the consciousness of the people. He was again top news item when he defected from the Peoples Democratic Party to the ruling All Progressives Congress few months back.

From information reaching us, those who were of the opinion that the brilliant former legal adviser of PDP was only an instrument in the hands of those alleged to have put him Sola Oke forward for the

with Helen Paul

Igbinedion celebrates at 81

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paulhelenproductions@yahoo.com

election should have a rethink as he’s out to prove he’s a man of himself who knows what he wants. Oke is said to have returned to the drawing board to begin work in earnest on how to clinch APC’s governorship ticket in 2016.

Core Media boss honoured hese are indeed good times for

the dynamic personality behind wave making outfit, Core Media, Jide Adediran. His efforts have again been acknowledged, this time in faraway Toronto, Canada. The graduate of The Polytechnic, Ibadan, was some days ago honoured with two different awards in Toronto on different grounds. His contribution through the strides of his outfit, Core Media, in the media industry was recognised with an award, Abedorc Production His commendable strides in the entertainment industry were honoured with a separate award by Africa Entertainment Award. The entertainment arm of Core Media Services has been involved in the promotion of entertainment in Africa and beyond.

Jide, boss and founder of Core Media, the parent company of Core Adediran TV, who was present in Canada for the events, said the sky is the beginning of other great things to come the way of the company.

He also promised that the company would not rest on its laurels.

Aloud

Okamigbo sure needs no introduction. This is because whoever is conversant with happenings in night life will have no difficulty placing the name. The bearer of the name is a frontline night club operator who is fast assuming the status of a don as far as the night life business is concerned.

Saying with his magic wand, he made The Place, a high profile fun spot in highbrow area of Lekki, Lagos, an instant success when he flung its doors open to the public will. It will amount to stating the obvious as he has even surpassed that level to record the feat of sustaining the momentum. The stylish graduate of UNILAG, several weeks back, shut down the fun spot for major renovation. Celeb Lounge can say that fun unlimited has returned since it was declared reopened reOkamigbo cently.

) 0807 270 9777

Training our tomorrow (2)

he mind of a child is described as an ers. empty slate at birth –clean, pure and This is a country where people find you saintly. This is the design of God. It out at all cost so as to nail you. It is often has to be filled as the child grows. There- fight to finish. See our political arena tofore, every experience counts from cradle day and you will marvel at the behaviour to catacomb. So, formal education, envi- of our fathers and uncles. Nigerians are ronmental education, relational education very good at running down the other and others count. person. It is a show of wickedness; one To get the best out of your child, you in which we care less if the person is demust be a friend to him or her. As a stroyed or killed in the course of having friend, you become a supportive ally, our way. It is greed and everything for liked and trusted by the child. Parenting me at all cost. is developing relationship. As you disci- Generally, pretence and secrecy have pline the child, also mentor by showing taken centre stage of the nature of most act of leading. Show the way and follow Nigerians. It is now the virtue of the day. the way by showing examples through You can hardly understand the mind of deeds and not words alone. the other person. This is a common beIt is essential and highly demanding that haviour with our youth today as many parents observe their children closely look dumb, speechless and carry sober with every sense of responsibility in look such that most parents generally character and how they are making ad- find it difficult and near impossible to justments. As the parent makes discov- read the minds of their children. eries, takes actions when necessary to The spirit of moral laxity and unbridled correct any mal-adjustment, the child’s freedom has brought to the centre stage attention is pointed to the noticeable is- indiscipline all the way. Most children sues and corrective action results on the hardly take to the advice of their parpart of the child. ents or elders. All you often hear is ‘I’m As a parent, always do no more a kid. I know what is right. Today, what I’m doing.’ This The truth is many parents in high kind of freedom imand low places behave plies unlimited moral that today in laxity and near reckshamelessly; many have Nigeria, we live by lessness in dressing thrown honour and dignity to the winds. This and way of life. corruption, dine explains why many Living above one’s children today have by way of cheating means, life of reapbecome vagabonds, rasing where one has not and thrive on cals and care less about sown is also a major family values. problem among Nigereaping where we Children’s interests are rians. Thieves in govhave not sown. It quite different from ernment, thieves in the those of their parents. house of God, thieves is corruption per Parents must show in cooperative societies interest and be part of and stealing of money excellence their child’s interests. provided to better the By so doing, they enlots of all is the order of courage good attitude and discover bad the day. For most schools and students, ones that may though interest the child it is exam malpractice at all costs. The but be detrimental to him. truth is that today in Nigeria, we live Home is the mirror of the society and by corruption, dine by way of cheating except the home front is sharpened by and thrive on reaping where we have effective parenting, the evolving gen- not sown. It is corruption per excellence. eration will continue to fall short of the The spirit of lust and materialism is now fear of God, self-respect and discipline, a national philosophy. You are only recculture for diligence, truth, honesty, fair- ognised in Nigeria if you have arrived ness and sincerity of purpose which are materially. How you come about the antidotes against the major challenges wealth is not necessary. and behavioural attitudes dominating Poor work culture and laziness are fast becoming a national pride. Loafing and the nation.

Okay, let me quickly enumerate some of idleness is now the order of the day. Prothese major challenges and behavioural ductivity and honest work for honest pay attitudes in question. The first one is the or reward is not our culture. We are at spirit of rudeness. ‘Please’ or ‘I’m sorry’ our peak when threatened or desperately is not in the dictionary of most Nigeri- after a reward. Every idiot now seeks for ans. They generally find it difficult to miracle and jackpot. It is not surprising express these words or simply apologise to see all over, adverts, seminars, text for wrong done. messages and others on how to become Nigerians hardly accept faults. Rather overnight millionaires and beneficiaries than accept, they indulge in transfer of hundreds of dollars via forex trades, blame by claiming innocence and blam- wealth creation, lotto, gambles and loting the other person to justify own posi- teries. tion or deeds despite glaringly being at Wow, let me draw the curtain here till fault. We also have the spirit of telling we meet again next week. I wish you all blatant lies against the other person. We a fruitful week ahead. have perfected ways of framing up oth-

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Wine & Dine

Body&Soul

Wine headache? Remedy Ibukunoluwa Kayode

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ow we are aware of chemicals that triggers headache after few glasses of our favourite wines. It’s important to know how to fix the troubling headache in other to enjoy a refreshing wine without worry.

Here are few tips to remedy wine headache.

•Drink a glass of water with every glass of wine.

The most common mistake wine drinkers make is hydration. It’s easy to forget because you are drinking already. When involved in wine, hydration is key and water is what you need. Make it a habit to chug a glass of water prior to enjoying a glass of wine, your fore-

head will definitely appreciate you.

•The Asprin Theraphy To enjoy a glass of wine without the ensuing headache, it’s reasonable to de-crud your blood with some over-the-counter blood thinners. The pills are also a great way to force yourself to drink a glass of water however, this is not recommended if you drink heavily.

•Don’t Eat Sugary Things with Wine.

Confetti cakes are amazing after a glass of wine, however the combination of sugar and alcohol will greatly exacerbate the potential for a headache. If you are sensitive to wine, reserve confetti cake for your midnight coffee-and-

cake binges only and stave off the dessert desire while drinking wine.

•Allergic Reactions to Alcohol or Yeast People with heightened sensitivity to alcohol and yeast should be careful with wine because it contains both. Don’t have your wine with hard cheeses and bread (what!) if you’re trying to keep your yeast intake down.

In all, don’t be quick to blame wine when you’re not drinking enough water. If you really want to help fix the headache you experience after having your few wine glasses, then, you need to try these tips and know the one that best suits you.

An African dish called Banku Kennedy Aziagba

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anku is a popular local Ghanaian dish that is best served when hot. It is made from fermented cassava and corn dough.

This was one of the meals I had the first time I went to Ghana as student. From the onset, I didn’t fancy it because I thought I wouldn’t like it and didn’t want to spend my money on something I wouldn’t like.

After some days, I thought to myself, “What’s the worst thing that could happen?”

Almost everyone who was in the restaurant ordered a plate of ‘Banku with okro stew’, with proper beer to dilute it. It could also be served with grilled tilapia or any other type of soup.

Well, I tried it for myself and from that day, whenever I got to any restaurant

around town, I made sure I buy and eat it to my satisfaction.

Personally, I think Banku is similar to our very own Eba/garri. Banku is usually made in ball shapes and wrapped with small transparent polyethylene bags. It’s not necessarily made into the ball shapes but that’s the way it should be done.

How to prepare Banku Knead the dough with your hands until it is thoroughly mixed and the dough becomes smooth.

Boil water in a pot, then slowly add the fermented dough in the pot and cook for about 20 minutes or more, stirring it constantly. You need to keep on stirring it to keep it from turning lumpy. This is done until it becomes stiff and thick.

When the banku is ready, you can use a wooden spoon to size the banku into the ball shaped size.

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RazzleDazzle

Body&Soul Abiola Alaba Peters

with

Celebrities Speak!

What we love, hate about social media

Due to the yearning for connection and belonging, the idea for social media was conceived.

It has, over the years, become a major and inspiring tool for the new generation, helping many in their day to day activities. While many consider the social media as a threat to some aspects of the human race, some feel it is very helpful. ABIOLA ALABA PETERS got some celebrities to talk about the impact of social media on relationships and marriage you can choose to use in your way. Celebrate whatever but just apply moderation. But if you want some privacy, then you must keep your marriage or relationship off the radar.

It’s just an individual thing.

To what extent should relationships or marriages be celebrated on social media?

Bryan Okpara- To a very friendly and inspiring extent, you don’t put everything out there, and when you do, you are giving some people the wrong idea. So basically, you have to put out a lot to inspire people as to what you are getting into, because not everybody has the formulae to get married and stay in it.

Femi Adebayo - For a celebrity, relationship or marriage should be very personal.

Whether or not it should be celebrated on social media is a personal thing. If you want your romance on social media, fine, enjoy yourself. If you don’t, keep it private, it’s all fine.

Bassey Ekpenyong - If you are happy with it, shout it out, whether married or in a relationship. As long as you are cool with your partner, blow it out. For instance, I have been married for over 20 years and I am happy and proud of my wife, like I just met her. I can say it anywhere. She makes me happy.

IK Ogbonna - For as much you want, if your love life makes you happy, why not?

Celebrate it anywhere. I am happy I met my wife who doubles as my best friend and that is why I can’t stop talking about her on social media.

Zik Zulu - When it has got to a golden or silver jubilee year, when both partners have come to understand themselves for a great deal of time, understand that life is give and take, that they deserve respect from each other, this I think should be celebrated.

Kemi Afolabi - Personally, I think some things are better kept in private for them to have value. When you keep your relationship or marriage off social media, it glitters, it becomes gold. So for me, relationships or marriage on social media is a no no!

Clarion Chukwura - Social media is no respecter of anything. It’s just a tool that

Olu Jacob - This is a school of life, where we learn every day. From the first day you enter into your marriage or relationship, you don’t think for one anymore, you begin to think for two. You, as a man, might like it, and your woman might not; she might like it and you might not. So you see, it’s a choice, but the point is, it has its advantages and disadvantages.

Juliet Ibrahim - Well, I think it’s an individual thing, yeah, I was married before.

I wasn’t always on social media posting pictures but then, I had my moments.

There were times I would want to post pictures of my happy moments; some people were not cool with it while some were. There should be limits.

Mercy Aigbe - It depends on the parties involved. If you are the type that likes to flaunt your partner on social media because you feel you love me, personally, I think it’s cool. If it’s the other way round, probably, you don’t like your marriage or relationship being flaunted on social media, it’s alright.

MI Abaga - I think it’s up to the couple; it depends on how much they can handle from social media. There are people who just love to be private in whatever they

do. The thing is, there are couples who are private, yet they don’t make it, some are public, and yet, they still don’t make it in their marriage or relationship.

Joke Silva - I am one of those who would rather want my marriage to be celebrated within the comfort of my home, say between me and my husband, and not on social media or in magazines. Because, whenever I see us in the media, I am worried and just keep praying hard that God should enclose us and keep the marriage. So for me, there are some things that should be off social media.

08062622328

Kennedy Aziagba 08028101185

Adekunle Gold -Relationships should be kept off social media. If you expose your relationship to social media, you are not helping it. Social media should not be a validation of some sort, just because you have the best guy or babe. Try as much as possible to keep your love life off the media.

Korede Bello - I am very much single. At the moment, I am in a relationship with my career, and I can advise based on that. (laughs). I think it’s only moral for one to keep his or her affairs private. It blossoms when it’s kept from the media.

Praiz - People are different.

If you want to celebrate your relationship on social media, that’s left for you. Personally, I am a very private person, it does not mean I am not proud of my relationship. Trust me, there are lots of people out there who don’t like your happiness. So I think there should be some level of privacy when it comes to family or love life.

Oge Okoye - I really don’t believe in taking your marriage or relationship to the public domain, especially social media. I am speaking for myself because I know a lot of people don’t see anything wrong with it. But for me, my privacy means a lot to me.

Kenneth Okonkwo - The decision for a marriage or relationship to be celebrated on social media should be between both partners. If you want your marriage to be quiet and vibrant, you have a right to do so. If you want your marriage to be celebrated and be the talk of town, you also have a right to do so. The parties involved are the ones to decide how public or private they want it.

Chika Ike - As much as I believe this is an individual thing, I still want to advise intending couples, married and those in a relationship, not to put everything about their romance out there on social media. There should be a limit. Some things are better kept in private and sacred.

Kate Henshaw - Marriage or relationships should not be celebrated on social media at all. This is because when you do, you have invited a third party, and that will not help the union. Marriage is a per- sonal thing, marriage is between two people. When you put it out there, you are giving every Tom and Harry the right to say all sorts of things about your marriage. I don’t support it; the social media is too public.

Acapella - Social media has made and broken so many marriages. Once in a while, you can celebrate your partner, but you should watch what you put out. It is better you keep the public in suspense about your home. Too much of everything is bad; somehow, you don’t know you might be exposing your home to marriage predators and social media vampires. For me, it should be in suspense.

A Soldier Story hits the cinemas Edwin Usoboh

N

ollywood fans and movie buffs are in for another exciting moment as a film by V+O Communications premieres at Genesis Cinema, City Mall Onikan, Lagos, for media viewing and opinion buzz.

The movie ‘A Soldier’s Story’ is a love story of a military man, which also highlights military call of duty, life and death and how they risk everything, with their passion to protect their nation.

The movie also celebrates the Nigerian heroic soldiers, to encourage and appreciate their contributions to the country.

Also, AMVCA award winning actress, Linda Ejiofor, and a renowned voice-over broadcaster; Tope Tedela, joined other

The cast

Nollywood actors and actresses in the new movie.

More so, the movie feature young and brilliant actors like of Daniel K Daniel, Adesua Etomi, Zinab Olumide, Owuru Balogun, Sambasa Nzeribe, and Chico Aligwekwe among others.

The film is a collaboration of the producer, Martin Gbados, and Frankie Ogar Films Production.

According to industry watchers who attended the premiere, A Soldier’s Story is a must watch movie and it is worth a traffic drive to cinemas.

36

SUNDAY SEPTEMBER 13, 2015, SUNDAY TELEGRAPH

Body&Soul

Stink bomb skunk Isabella Hopkins

O

nce upon a smelly time, there was a skunk that HATED smells!!! His name was Kevin. Kevin was often sad; he was made fun of all the time by the high school humans.

The other reason why he was sad is because he had no one to care for him: no friends, no family, nothing.

Courageously, Kevin tiptoed into the bathroom to get some blue mints (or as you and I know: toilet thingy-magigs). Annoyingly, there were his arch enemies lurking by the bowls of lemonade AKA toilets with wee in them!!!

“Hey! What are you doing here, Stink Bomb?” Sniggered Ben and his gang, who were laughing behind him. Sneakily, Kevin tried to scurry off without Ben or his gang noticing him (unfortunately he left a stinky blue scent behind).

Stupidly, silly old Kevin ac-

cidentally walked into the girls’ bathroom thinking it was the disabled cubicle to get some peace and quiet.

Red like roses, Kevin’s chubby cheeks blushed when he realized he was in the wrong place; the girls were screeching in disgust at the horrible sight. As quick as they could, the girls fled like they had seen a ghost. Luckily, there was a twinkling in the room where Kevin’s fairy skunk mother fluttered down with her angel-like wings.

“I shall grant you three wishes.

You can make the world shine.

Be careful of your choices.

Because not everything will be fine.”

Kevin’s jaw dropped in delight; he instantly knew what he was going to wish for – the one thing he had been wishing for his whole life!

“I wish for: no smell, no smell, oh and…..no smell!”

Crossword puzzle

Without hesitation, Kevin strolled down the street like he was the coolest guy in town. However, no one paying attention; this never happened, but the thing was… he liked all the attention! Even though the attention was negative, at least people were noticing him! Kevin was very confused; he always thought that without his smell, his life would be perfect. He realised having all the attention already made his life perfect, strangely! After being up all night, trying to think of a way to reverse the wishes, a light bulb popped out of his head – he remembered that the wish only lasts for 24 hours (he only knew this because The Fairy-Skunk-Mother had left a note on some toilet roll!) In order for the wishes to cease, he had to do a funky dance in front of the high school humans! He didn’t care; he strutted into the middle of the high school humans where he wiggled and jiggled and boogied all night (well actually it was only for 5 minutes).

As quick as a lightning bolt, a flash came from the sky and then he saw all fingers pointing at him.

“Stink Bomb…Stink Bomb…You’re a Stinky Stink Bomb!”

“Oh be quiet”, he shouted at them courageously, “If you say that one more time, I will let some stink bomb off on you!!” The vile humans then scurried off like rats. Kevin then lived smellily ever after!!

Celebrations!!!

Four hearty cheers for Foghe Longe at 4!

This feisty and cheerful lad adores his sister Aima, colour yellow and cannot be disturbed when Superman and Blaze the Monster Machine are showing...God bless you little darling!

Gags

Where do bulls get their messages?

Ans: On a bull-etin board.

What do bulls do when they go shopping?

Ans: They CHARGE! What runs but can’t walk?

Ans: The faucet!

When is the best time to go to the dentist?

Ans: Tooth-hurty

What kind of bed does a mermaid sleep in?

Ans: A water bed!

What kind of crackers do firemen like in their soup?

Ans: Firecrackers!

Why did the barber win the race?

Ans: Because he took a short cut.

What’s taken before you get it?

Ans: Your picture.

37

015 SUNDAY TELEGRAPH

Lawmaker calls for national blueprint on corruption

P

Well, it is what you will call work in progress. You remember, our founding fathers before the 60s, their initial vision was that we must get our freedom from the colonial masters. So the euphoria that time is that we must rule ourselves. The founding fathers made the struggle for independence from colonial rule their programme. Their struggle was to secure our freedom from all encumbrances that usually go with the colonial rule. They agreed that Africa should be the centre piece of our foreign policy. At that time, everybody was talking about nothing , but Africa. If you notice, African leaders at that time, like Dr Kwame Nkrumah, Dr. Nnamdi Azikiwe, Chief Obafemi Awolowo and the Sarduana of Sokoto had one thing in common - let us be free now.

So they charted the course, but as we went along, you know we had military interregnum in 1966 which led to a change of course

from what the founding fathers had at the beginning. So we have been making progress but it has been based on the vision of those who found themselves on the saddle.

With the situation of things, what opportunities do you think are available to the youth of Nigeria today?

There are plenty. Nigerian youths should try to conquer what I consider, the basic reason why we cannot move as a nation. We must remove religion from politics. We must accept ourselves as Nigerians and not see ourselves as being from A or B state, or local government. We must ensure that anything - culture or ethnicity that we cannot change- we don’t bring to the table. What you cannot change we must endure. Can you change yourself from being a Hausa man to Ibo man or an Ibo man to a Yoruba man; or a Yoruba man to an Ijaw man? You can’t.

So forget about that, it is not an issue. So don’t bring it on the table. Ethnicity should be removed from our politics. What we must bring into our politics is equity, justice and for us to be our brother’s keeper. We can do it. I have told you, God has given you land, water and us, as people; that is what He gave to every nation on earth.

We must educate our people. That is the key.

What we need to do as people is to work together. These are the things we need to do so that we can work and exploit all these opportunities. We are talking about education and they are talking about power. If you educate the people they will know how to get solar to get power, to mine oil to get power. They will know how to do everything to get power including using water. But you can’t educate them if you don’t have peace, or if you are so divided. You can’t educate them if there is equity and justice in the way of doing things.

resident Muhammadu Buhari has been urged to initiate a national blue print on fighting corruption, and establish a means of ensuring international standard in executing government business.

Hon. Olatunbosun Oyintiloye, a member of Osun State House of Assembly, made the charge shortly after the end of a capacity building workshop on Transparency and Accountability for members of Houses of Assembly of states in the South West geopolitical zone, organised by the Independent Corrupt Practices and other related offences Commission (ICPC) in Abuja.

According to him, the President should establish a Transparency Charter that would re-awaken value and promote compliance with the established protocols of doing government business such as Due Process that has been abandoned by MDAs and most states government.

Oyintiloye said the charter must see to it that the costing of public work is done in such a way that the citizens are not short changed.

He said the charter, if properly developed, would ensure adherence to global standard in executing government projects, and activities, thereby eliminating cutting corners and shady deals, hence discourage corrupt practices.

The lawmaker stated further that the survival of the nation’s economy depended on the success of the fight against corruption, stressing that the nation is faced with myriads of challenges.

Oyintiloye maintained that the war against corruption should not be that of the President alone, but a campaign that must be supported by all Nigerians in a bid to place the country on the path to greatness.

“This Transparency charter would reduce the psychological pressure on the Presidency and make Nigerians take ownership of the battle through in-built mechanism to monitor government and question it’s authority.

“It will ensure standardised procedure in doing business, destroy cutting corners and will be a platform that direct attention to the best international practice on executing public activities or business”.

“By Transparency Charter, I advocate a Compendium that connects with the people, reshapes conduct, resets value orientation and influences comportment in tandem with the reality of the nation’s resources. As soon as the charter is well internalised by Nigerians, it will become norms to live by. It’s all about a new mindset”, he added.

The Lawmaker expressed confidence in Professor Sagay’s led Committee on War Against Corruption, which he said would serve as a catalyst for battle against corrupt practices.

Oyintiloye further called on Nigerian elites to join the president in the bid to eliminate corruption, warning that if they allow the campaign to fail, corruption may eventually paralyze the nation’s dwindling economy.

The lawmaker described the platform provided by the workshop as a veritable one in the fight against corruption stressing that it will translate to good governance, transparency and accountability.

38

SUNDAY, SEPTEMBER 13, 2015 SUNDAY TELEGRAPH

Politics

Lalong’s 100 days of reconstruction

Musa Pam, Jos

W

hen Governor Simon Bako Lalong, took the mantle of leadership, over three months ago in Plateau State to steer the ship of the state for the next four years, his inaugural speech was an action plan. He planned to improve the state’s civil service and youth development programmes which gave the people big hopes and expectations.

Few days after assumption of office, he announced his decision to improve the lives of the civil servants in the state by paying constant salaries. He said his 100 days in office should be seen in the light of the practical steps that would be put in place to address the myriad of problems inherited from the past administration.

According to him, the liabilities include unpaid salaries, an educational sector that is totally grounded from the primary to the tertiary levels, unstructured governance, a number of abandoned projects running into billions of naira as well as security challenges that have threatened lives and the means of livelihood of people in the region.

The governor also lamented that he met an empty treasury with a dwindling Internally Generated Revenue and inflow from the Federation Account. He wondered why citizens watched primitively and allowed others to embezzle state’s wealth through the years.

Thus, it wasn’t a surprise when the governor announced that the Jonah Jang’s administration left a debt of N222.3bn. He vowed also to probe Jang, who is now a senator but Senator Jang described the report of the committee as untrue, insisting that he left debts and liabilities of N103.9 billion.

While marking his 100 days in office, the governor said he was going to do everything to meet the expectations of the entire citizenry. “The enormity of the challenges that we are confronted with have left us with only the immediate option of making quick fixes that would address the basic needs of the citizens and enthrone peaceful environment for good governance.

“In this regard, we remained focused and resolute on addressing the lingering labour unrest in the state, through the confidence building, dialogue with labour unions on all issues. These include the payment of salaries, pension arrears and addressing injustices meted out on certain categories of public officeholders through the deliberate abuse of the rule of law and public service procedure.

“Our attention is also focused on the issue of finding a long lasting solution to the conflicts in Riyom, Barkin Ladi and parts of Jos South Local Governments Areas, which have continued unabated. The conflicts have left the state with painful memories.

Our approach to resolving this challenge is hinged on rekindling confidence in government’s sincerity to solving the problems and the willingness of the communities to end to the crisis.

“Our efforts in facilitating dialogue through the many consultations are yielding result beyond imagination. Thus, whilst through the efforts of the Special Task Force, the issues of outright criminality and terrorism are checked. The communities themselves through the Peace and Reconciliation Committee set up by government will actively participate in evolving practical solutions to resolving the conflicts,” he said.

Within his 100 days in office, Lalong has started restructuring the state governance and merging some ministries, departments and agencies as well as the implementing civil service reforms that address the injustices in promotions, appointments and postings of civil service.

Lalong made the thrust of his administration known to the public, where he stressed that the purpose of probing the past admin-

Lalong

istration is not to witch hunt anyone but to ensure that through probity, accountability and transparency were ensured in all ongoing projects.

He said his administration had accessed a loan of N4.5 billion since inception of his administration and dismissed claims in some quarters that government has received a bailout and has not settled workers’ salaries. Lalong also disclosed that he has not received salaries since he resumed office as the governor, insisting that until arrears of salaries are cleared, he will not take his own salary.

Within the 100 days in the office, governor has embarked on rehabilitation of 18 metropolitan roads. In agriculture, he had purchased and distributed 650 trucks of fertilizer on assumption of office, through a community based distribution, which involves ward and district heads. This eliminated the underhand practices associated with middlemen.

He has as well resumed intensive work on the state secretariat’s overhead bridge and Yakubu Gowon dual carriage way, which is one of the biggest projects started by the Jang administration. He completed the rehabilitation and patching of roads within the Greater Jos-Bukuru metropolis.

The Lalong government has also completed the renovation of the House of Assembly Complex awarded during the past administration. On transportation, he has purchased vehicles for the three arms of government, given the fact that virtually all government-owned vehicles were either boarded or carted away. He also paid backlog of scholarship for law school and tertiary institutions students.

Much has also happened in the education sector in the state after the reinstatement of Vice-Chancellor of Plateau State University, Prof. D. D. D. Sheni and the reconstitution of the Governing Council with Prof. Attahiru Jega as Pro-Chancellor and Chairman.

The governor also undertook the first ever advocacy visit to Tertiary Education Trust Fund (TETFUND) and National University Commission (NUC) to sponsor interventions in Plateau State tertiary institutions and accreditation of programmes in the university.

Also, an innovative approach to environmental sanitation was unveiled, where government set up a committee to clear heap of refuse that littered the metropolis during the labour unrest. Beyond the place of ex-

penditure on physical public infrastructure and sundry interventions in critical arrears of education, health, environmental emergencies, the Lalong administration has been committed to finding lasting solution to any threat to peace.

This has resulted in restructuring of the Operational Peace Enforcement Mandate of the Special Task Force to Operation Safe Heaven as it is now known, where Governor Lalong has continued to pursue the outcome of several consultations on security with President Muhammadu Buhari.

On his proposed cabinet, he explained why he has been very meticulous about the arrangement. “The cabinet is the engine room of government. So, we want to choose the best that can work for Plateau State. We don’t want to follow the old pattern. Given the scarce resources, do we really need 23 ministries? Should we have more or less?

That was why government is waiting for the transition committee to guide them through their recommendations. Now that the committee had submitted its report, we will study it and we will soon constitute our cabinet.”

Lalong, who reaffirmed the determination of his administration to fight corruption in the state, denied any witch-hunt in the process to recover stolen money. “What we are talking about is public fund stolen, which we have resolved to recover. Those who stole the money, should not be afraid.

All we want is the money because nobody is interested in the party the looters belong to. I’m very happy that Mr. President is also pursuing them at the centre. Let’s see where they will run to. We have invited the EFCC to arrest whoever has stolen public fund and refused to return it.

Meanwhile, the Plateau State Chapter of Sports Writers Association of Nigeria has commended Lalong over his drive to engender sports development in the State and have present branded footballs to the governor.

State Chairman of SWAN, Mr. Thaddeus Yilmen, in company of his Secretary, Agabus Pwanagba, who presented branded balls with the Lalong picture at the Government House in Rayfield said that SWAN has watched with keen interest the zeal by the Lalong’s administration in revamping sports in the state.

Bearing in mind that government alone cannot handle sports, the association decided to partner with the government to bring back the lost glory of the state in the area of sports development.

“So, we have decided to come up with a corporate branding of the governor, through football. We intend to mass produce and distribute to all the clubs flying the flag of the state in national leagues and schools.

But due to lack of funds and the fact that we do not receive subvention, we urge the governor to mass produce and distribute the balls so as to revive football in the grassroots,” Yilmen said.

He advised the government to ensure that sportsmen who were hitherto owed over six months’ salaries are paid, because they were instrumental to the elevation of Plateau United FC into the Glo Premier League.

NGO dresses 500 students on World Literacy Day Vanessa Okwara

A

s part of the annual International Literacy Day celebrated every September eighth, a non-governmental organisation, JAKIN has harped on the need for improvement in the quality of education given to students in the country.

Speaking at this year’s celebration of the day, occasion, President and Chief Executive Officer of JAKIN NGO, Mrs. Adebiyi Olubukola said that “quality basic education equips pupils with literacy skills for life and further learning,” while “poor quality education is leaving the bad legacy of illiteracy more widespread than previously believed.”

Olubukola said that literate parents are more likely to send their children to school and access continuing educational opportunities, but the fate of a vulnerable child who is denied the right to education either because he/she is orphaned or unfortunate to have less privileged caregivers is imaginable.

Olubukola, whose governmental organisation initiated the annual “Dress a Child Project” since 2010 as a platform for Nigeria to join the rest of the world in commemorating the day, added that it was not for nothing that this years’ Literacy Day was tagged “Literacy and Sustainable Societies.”

As part of this year’s celebration, Jakin

NGO also continued the “Dress a Child Project” by dressing 500 orphans and vulnerable children for the 2015/2016 academic session.

Each beneficiary received two uniforms, a school bag, one pair of sandals, two pairs of socks, a dozen of exercise books a mathematical set and branded pencil case containing necessary stationeries.

She said the objective of this event was to enlighten children on the essence of education and the impact they can make on the future of our nation. “It is also designed to empower them with basic school items to aid their studies and help them function effectively in the new academic session” Also, in a paper presented by Mrs. Olufunso Owasanoye of Human Development Initiatives, she expounded the importance of giving children good basic education to prepare them for a better tomorrow.

“The Universal Basic Education Programme (UBE) marks the beginning of carefully thought out programme of restoration in the education sector. Basic education is the foundation for sustainable lie-long learning.

Literacy is not a luxury; it is a right and a responsibility. If our world is to meet the challenges of the 21st century, we must harness the energy and creativity of all our citizens’.

The children treated the audience to different drama, songs and dance, while the popular Alfa Sule entertainment provided comedy and dance drama.

Faith

SUNDAY

39

SUNDAY SEPTEMBER 13, 2015

News Obedience to God is answer to Nigeria’s problems p.41

Interveiw God has been good to us –Jomo p.40

Sermon The tragedy of evil house p.43

Sermon Christian life: Are you winning souls for God or for Satan? p.44

Tai Anyanwu Head, religous Desk titus.anyanwu@newtelegraph online.com

© Daily Telegraph Publishing Company Limited

Ezekiel challenges women on families Tai Anyanwu

A

s the international biannual conference of Christian Pentecostal Mission (CPM) winds up today, women have been advised to go back to their families and various stations and make a difference. The National and International Coordinator CPM, Pastor Mrs. Mercy Ezekiel, gave the charge at the Ajao Estate headquarters of the Church, Lagos.

She noted that it is easier for people to remain in their current state than to make efforts to push forward for a better level in life.

“But you have the power to be more than what you are. You must have a vision to move forward. I stand here today to ask you to join me in charting a new, glorious walk to a new and great new course,” Pastor Ezekiel urged.

She charged the women folk to go and make a difference.

“I advise you by the mercies of God to take advantage of this conference to chart a new course and make a difference in your families and your various stations,” he counselled.

The patriarch of CPM family, Dr. Obiorah Ezekiel, counselled the women that short cuts to making a difference in their world requires marching the word of God with action and character.

“This is the difference because if we talk only talk and in action are portraying another thing, that I may call hypocrisy,” Ezekiel affirmed.

Women from different countries where the church has branches as well as delegates from all the states in Nigeria attended the weeklong convention.

Other features of the conference include seminars, entrepreneurship classes and speeches by women from other ministries.

But you have the power to be more than what you are. You must have a vision to move forward.

I stand here today to ask you to join me in charting a new, glorious walk to a new and great new course Ezekiel

40

SUNDAY SEPTEMBER 13, 2015, SUNDAY TELEGRAPH

Faith What are people to expect during your church’s forthcoming anniversary?

Our fifth year anniversary as a church comes up on October 4 through October 11. For us at the Wisdom of God’s Evangelical Ministry International, this calls for celebration. These dates have been chosen for convenience’s sake, because the church actually started on August 18, 2010. We cannot forget our humble beginning in a classroom, with nothing. But today, we have four branches and a leadership school. So we are grateful to our good Lord. The celebration will be preceded by a praise night from 10p.m till dawn. Then on Monday at 5p.m, there will be an ordination service. This will followed by a Night of Power on Wednesday. Special anniversary massages will be given on Thursday and Friday. Our strategic Ministers Conference for Ministers will begin at noon on Saturday before the celebration proper on Sunday, October 11 at 6, Great Challenge Road, Off Iyana-School Bus Stop, Iba in Lagos.

God has been good to us –Jomo Senior Pastor of Wisdom of God’s Word Evangelical Ministry International, Prophet Nnadiaso Promise Jomo, speaks on the noise pollution law in Lagos State and other issues as his church prepares to celebrate its fifth anniversary. He spoke with TAI ANYANWU and destruction. God is against all these words, so we can’t be involved in any of them. We will rather praise our God with an organised sound that will be pleasant to hear. So, this won’t be against the law and it will not disturb our neighbours.

Are you going to roll out the drums?

Yes. The Bible says in Psalm 100:1: ‘Make a joyful noise unto the Lord all ye lands.’

And Psalm 95:1 emphasises: “O come let us sing unto the Lord: Let us make a joyful noise to the Rock of our salvation.”

We will sing and praise our God all the days of our lives, but these days of our celebration are going to be special. The world will hear about it and they will see how good our God is to us. Just read Psalms 150,103,135 and136 to understand how great our rejoicing will be.

Are you aware that noise pollution is an offence in Lagos Sate and that your church could be shut?

Yes, I am aware of the law. I also know that no one is above the law. But there is a difference between noise pollution and a joyful noise. Remember, the word ‘pollution’ means contamination, spoiling

Jomo

How does this law, which has led to the closure of many churches in the state, make you feel as a man of God? Well, I am not against any law of our state, but I believe in the purity of divine purpose.

I also don’t believe that humans can close what God Almighty has started on a good purpose. God can’t start a thing that man can close or stop. God said I (God) will build my church and the gates of hell shall not prevail against it. If the gates of hell cannot, then nobody will.

What is the theme of your celebration?

The theme of our fifth anniversary ‘From Grass to Grace,’ was inspired by the Holy Spirit. It is a reminder to us as it refreshes our minds about where God picked us from and where He places us now.

Kindly mention other highlights of the celebration.

By divine arrangement, our celebration will be accompanied with a confirmation of God’s power which has become manifest in our ministry. So, there will be miracles of salvation of souls. It is the key message we preach every day. Of course, there will be Holy Ghost baptism, divine healings, ordination and all-round breakthroughs.

What is your message to Nigerians as the wind of change and probes of corrupt politicians is blowing through the country?

You don’t talk about change, if you are not a changed person. Our leaders have to change first for good not for evil. One can change from good to bad because of people, friends or things around him or her. But since our President promised us change let us join hands together and work for true change. This country is ours. I have no other place than here. I will support all our leaders if they will come out for real change not by mere speaking They should lead us by example.

Standing for others in deliverance Word of Life

Bishop

Moses Kattey

moseskattey@yahoo.co.uk

0808 770 7486

W

e treated the first two cases of mental problems and the people picked for themselves. You can agree with me that if you go to most mad people or demonised to cast out demons, there will be no response from the demons at

all. Most of them do not pick, they instead harm you. It is good to open up oneself to what God has to say about any particular issue. He has a solution to any problem.

Problems are solutions and they are twins.

They are always a pair. They go together.

Problems and solutions are only separated by ignorance, by time and sometimes baby sin. Once the barrier between a problem and solution is removed, the problem is solved.

A woman was brought in such a condition that she was totally off – no response, no picking, nothing. Binding and loosing had no impact on her case. We did all we could to no avail. I called my wife and told her that I was confused and that I did not know what to do again. I left her, sat down

It is more effective for one to pick for himself / herself. Using a vessel is second best on my arm chair and said: Holy Spirit, I am confused. What do I do? Immediately, the answer shot into my heart. Use her younger sister. That means, let her sister stand for her. It is like I kneel down on behalf of my family for you to pray for us.

I have learnt that if I ask the Holy Spirit a question, He answers, immediately or thereafter. I know that He will answer.

The answer, use her younger sister, came so clear and I was sure that I immediately knew the source and what it meant. I say what it meant because prior to this time, we had not used anybody to minister Deliverance to any other person; neither had it come into my mind. We had not heard of it, we had not seen it, we had not read of it nor been conscious of such a thing. Use her younger sister was to me like

the ‘Aha’ phenomenon like ‘Eureka,’ the absolute solution to my confusion. In other words, if the woman that had the mental problem and was completely off could not pick, let her younger sister pick for her.

All that could have happened if she had picked would still happen when one picks for her.

I did not hesitate. I rose up immediately from my chair, went straight to where the woman was and asked for her younger sister. I was shown the younger sister and I led her to Christ. I therefore asked the Holy Spirit to make those responsible to speak and reverse all they had done. It happened exactly as it could have manifested in the woman with the problem.

She became alright after a series of ministrations with her sister and others. It worked in this woman’s case without any side effect on the sister who picked for her.

It has worked for thousands of others after that very first case. There has not been any problem that God has not used somebody to pick for those who can’t pick. It has worked ever since. It will work for you, too. It is a privilege to have somebody in your family who can pick. It is a gift. It is a calling. People pray and fast to pick for people, to be used to deliver people. It is a calling. In fact, the Holy Spirit calls them VESSELS. In Deliverance, VESSELS are those who can pick for others, whom the Lord uses to minister salvation, deliverance etc to people by picking for those who can’t pick.

These vessels must be Holy otherwise the Holy Spirit will not use them. Vessels are a group of persons identified for the purpose of ministering for others. They are part and parcel and members of the Deliverance Team.

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SUNDAY TELEGRAPH, SUNDAY SEPTEMBER 13, 2015

Faith

Your dreams shall be fulfilled Mystery ofAnxiety Bishop

John Ogbansiegbe

L

0803 341 6327 iterally, a dream is a train of fancies during sleep. Dreams are those events, fantasies, fancies, thoughts and ideas which exist in the world of imagination.

Figuratively, a dream is a vision, a plan or programme which is yet to be executed, perfected, attained or actualised.

A dream is a distant hope or aspiration, inspiration and expectation.

From the spiritual point of view, a dream is an exclusive peep by the dreamer into the unseen, unheard, uncommon and unknown. A dreamer is navigating the past, present and future of human experiences. A dreamer is perusing the height, depth, length and breadth of hidden knowledge, facts and figures stored away from the natural eyes.

A dream is a spiritual prompting of things that have taken place and things that have yet to come. It is a spiritual signal sent from the world of spirits into the spirits of mortal men; it may be a green light or a danger sign permitting or warning you from taking a decision or action.

A dream is a visual picture or image of the physical, represented in the spirit form when men are asleep. In a nutshell, a dream or a vision is an expression of facts, figures and information of the present, past or future events, in picture, to the human spirit by the person of the Holy Spirit. It is the language through which the Holy Spirit speaks to man.

Your dream is your God given vision

about your future assignment or a revealed divine design on how to actualise your destiny.

To this end therefore, may I categorically declare that every dream must be tested. Those who see their God-given dreams fulfilled, are those who persevere through tough times. They are the people who refuse to quit. Their tenacity and perseverance will launch them into the fulfilment of their dreams and ultimate victory. People who fulfil their God-given dreams are not always the smartest. They are just people who refuse to be discouraged, but they hold onto their dreams tenaciously, no matter the obstacle before them.

When God gives you a dream or a vision, He desires that you remain focused and concentrated on that dream until the dream is fulfilled and actualised.

That is the reason why God tests most people with great dreams and visions.

He doesn’t fulfil the dreams of those whose minds are clustered, preoccupied and distracted with the affairs of this life.

Just like many other heroes of faith, Abraham’s faith was tested many times

Your dream is your God given vision about your future assignment or a revealed divine design on how to actualise your destiny

by God. One great philosopher once said, “That mark of rank in nature is the capacity for pain, and anguish of singer makes the sweetest of the strain.” The valley way, not the mountain way opens into the highway. Tribulation imprint is on all great things. No man is a victor till he has trodden the winepress of woes.

With seams of anguish deep in his brow, “the man of sorrow” Jesus said, “In the world ye shall have tribulation, but after this sob, comes the song of promise: Be of good cheer, I have overcome the world.”

Blood marks stain the steps that lead to thrones” “sears (strong heat) are the price of sceptres (crown).” It is the Goliath you killed that will announce your glory.”

Catherine Pulsifer, a philosopher, once

said “success takes time.”

Develop persistence, determination and most importantly believe in yourself to win.” Hold unto your dreams and visions. Run with your dreams, and be determined to work out your dream.

Your dream may attract the hatred, opposition and conspiracy of your relatives, friends, neighbours and those on common grounds with you.

The Bible says that the hatred of Joseph’s brothers increased when they heard of his dreams and recorded thus: “And Joseph dreamed a dream, and he told it his brethren and they hated him, yet the more,” – Gen. 37:5.

“And he dreamed yet another dream; and told it his brethren and said, Behold, I have dreamed a dream more, and behold the sun and the moon and the eleven stars made obeisance to me. And he told it to his father and to his brethren, and his father rebuked him, and said; what is this dream that thou hast dreamed? Shall I and thy mother and thy brethren indeed come to bow down ourselves to thee to the earth? And his brethren envied him, but his father observed the saying,” Gen.37: 9-11.

Obedience to God is answer to Nigeria’s problems Shadrack Yusuf

T

he General Secretary of the Bible Society of Nigeria, M. Dare Ajiboye, has called on Nigerians to whole heartedly embrace the word of God in order to solve the multi-faced challenges of the country.

Ajiboye, who was speaking during the week, at opening of the BSN five-day Marathon Bible Reading which took place in 42 locations in Lagos Sate.

He explained that until Nigerians took further steps to read, meditate and diligently obeyed the word of God Nigerians would

not succeed either as a nation or as individuals.

Pointing out the relevance of the Marathon Bible reading, which held at All Saints Anglican Church, Oshodi, Lagos, the BSN scribe said: “No doubt, God will be pleased with the country because “Righteousness exalts a nation, but sin is a reproach to any people”.

He added that we the mind of God by reading the Bible and therefore be able to live in accordance with His expectations and demands from us.

His words: “Imagine what will happen if Nigeria read their Bibles daily inculcate

Biblical virtues and live according to will of God”.

M. Dare explained that participants should be Christians irrespective of denomination, age or sex adding that interested persons should visit any centre closer to them and take part in the programmes which held daily at 9.00 am to 5.00 pm daily, from Monday 7th – Friday September 11th. He also encouraged 38 Area offices across the country to adopt the programme so as to give a national outlook.

According to him, participants would have a three-fold joy by participating.

Tithing, giving and receiving the of

Oracles God

Frank Oboden Olomukoro frankolomukoro@yahoo.com

0703 362 1866

THE BIBLE AND TITHING Tithing from the Biblical point of view is the tenth of our income that we give to God, which enables Him to move on our behalf in the area of blessings.

“It is the gateway for the believer into the covenant promise of blessings. In Greek, ‘apodekatoo’ means a payment or giving of the tenth which in Hebrew ‘Maaser’ is translated same as a tenth.

The Bible records numerous accounts of man tithing to God. God owns everything and we are simply stewards of what we have been entrusted with.

The tithe principle is this: “He gives unto us, we give back to Him one-tenth of all that He has blessed us with. But what would a man take tithing for if He owned the whole Heavens and earth and all that’s in it? Why would He take tithe? If He never was born and never will die and was from beginning to end, and never had no father or mother or descent, why would He then ask Abraham or you and I to pay tithe or give Him a tenth of our own earnings or spoils from our labour when He owns all the gold and silver and the wild

beasts? You can see what a strict thing it is to pay tithe.

TITHING AND WORSHIP God provided specific directions for the kind of worship that would be pleasing to Him. These instructions either as a written law or by inspiration teach us about the nature of God and can help us develop a right attitude toward worship. Tithing which is a form of giving a specific amount to God specifically constitutes an integral part of our worship of God. We worship God with our substances. “Honour the LORD with thy substance, and with the first fruits of all thine increase: So shall thy barns be filled with plenty, and thy presses shall burst out with new wine” (Prov. 3:9-10).

The wise men (not three wise men because they gave three distinct gift as the old fables of the denomination teach) from the East in search of the King of the Jews, presented gift in their worship of the child. Tithing and offering is associated with worship. “And when they (Wise men) were come into the house, they saw the young child with Mary his mother, and fell down, and worshipped him: and when they had opened their treasures, they presented unto him gifts; gold, and frankincense, and myrrh” (Matt 2:11) TITHING IS VOLUNTARY AND MANDATORY Tithing is a little token from our wealth that we give unto God. Tithing is not

We worship God with our substances given to man in need or a servant of (pastors, prophets, apostles, teachers and evangelists) but to God because it is His money paid to the store house.

Whether it is voluntarily paid as Abraham, Isaac and Jacob did under grace or mandatorily as later commanded by the Law, it is a ‘giving,’ and a sacrifice being offered unto God in worship.

Tithes were already paid voluntarily before the law was given; with the law it became mandatory so that the priestly tribe of Levi could conduct the services in the temple. According to Lev. 27:30 and other scriptures in the Old Testament, it was self-evident for the devout Jews to consecrate a tenth of all things to the LORD; even as early as over 400 years before the introduction of the Law. TITHING IS THANKSGIVING IN OBEDIENCE Abraham gave tithes out of gratitude.

So tithing does not go back to the law, but was later adopted into the law.

Abraham, Isaac and Jacob and Joseph lived under the dispensation of grace as we live today.

The following is written in Gen. 14:1820: “And Melchizedek King of Salem brought forth bread and wine: and he was the priest of the most high God.

And he blessed him, and said, blessed be Abram of the most high God, possessor of heaven and earth: And blessed be the most high God, which hath delivered thine enemies into thy hand. And he gave him tithes of all.” God, who has delivered us from serious ailments, saved us from dangerous spiritual and human attacks on a daily, weekly, monthly basis, is worth our tithes from thankful hearts.

As King and Priest, the faithful LORD met Abraham with bread and wine to sup with him after He had given him victory over the heathen kings.

Out of thankfulness, Abraham gave Him a tenth part of all. Melchizedek was the king of righteousness and the king of peace in person (Heb. 7:1-4).

Here in Abraham’s encounter with the king and Priest, tithing is associated with a heart of gratitude or a thankful heart. Out of thankfulness, Abraham gave Him a tenth part of all. Isn’t it by God’s enabling grace we obtain victory weekly or monthly or yearly? Will it be out of order if we follow the footsteps of Abraham, whom we regard and refer to as father of faith? If we are quick to say that Abraham’s blessings are ours, is it not obvious that Abraham did certain things like tithing that opened the channels to earn God’s favour and blessings? It is an attitude we should replicate in our fellowship with God, being the same yesterday, today and forever.

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Faith

The spirit of welcome and compassion

Firm Faith:

Right Reason Most Rev.

Emmanuel A. Badejo fradebadejo@yahoo.

0803 949 4219 (SMS only)

Gifts and charism Christianity is a religion of the edification of the spirit and not the gratification of the flesh. The Holy Spirit empowers man so that he can dominate the things of the flesh. The apostle Paul cautioned in his epistle: “And then you must accept salvation from God to be your helmet and receive the word of God from the Spirit too use as a sword” (Eph 6:17). No one can claim to work with the Holy Spirit if his actions have no positive impact on his existence and that of others. In the seven peak moments or sacraments of Christian life, namely Baptism, Eucharist, Confirmation Penance, Sacrament of the Sick, Holy Orders, the Holy Spirit plays a pervasive role. This is without prejudice to the special nature of Confirmation in which the seven gifts of the Holy spirit are highlighted. In it, Christians are initiated into Christian adulthood, a stage at which they are expected to burst forth with diverse charisma for God has given them diversely to everyone. “All these are the work of one and the same spirit who distributes different gifts to different people just as he chooses” (1Cor. 12: 11) Christians are called to do this with wisdom, insight, good counsel, knowledge, power, piety

and the fear of God. The Call to Charity However in all this the Christians’ call to charity remains paramount for love is the supreme law of Christianity MASTER. The apostle John taught: “... let us love one another for love comes from God. Everyone who loves is born of God and knows God. Those who do not love have not known God for God is love” (1Jn 4:7-8). Paul, the apostle as well, declared: “If I could speak all the human and angelic tongues but had no love, I would only be sounding brass or a clanging cymbal and I do not have love I have nothing” (1Cor. 13:1).

Perhaps at no other time than this are we all challenged on the imperative and true meaning of love on the global level. A number of days ago the United Nations celebrated what was tagged “The World Day of Charity”. The organization chose an unforgettable personality to drive home that message of charity namely Mother Teresa of Calcutta. She, especially, had the motivation to care for the poor and needy simply and solely because every human being bears the image and likeness of God. Although the United Nations often jettisons religious themes and personalities it simply could not resist choosing Mother Teresa. Thus it hopes to revive in the world’s peoples, sentiments of solidarity and compassion and make more people their brothers’ keepers. This is certainly a commendable initiative because no matter how well-organized and well-intentioned world governments may be they will never be able to fully cater for all the needs of every individual needy person except every individual takes up the

Many great nations of the world today too are composed of migrants and refugees who, having been welcomed by their hosts, are now a great source of pride to those nations

ers to live a life of dignity as God’s children. This is the call of Pope Francis to all parishes in Rome and all over the world to welcome refugees and migrants with compassion while respecting their individuality and religion.

Heeding this call to compassion helps to re-humanize those who heed it for compassion is indeed the antitoxin of the soul.

challenge. In the end all the technology of our world may make us neighbors but only love can make us brothers and sisters.

When I was hungry The refugee situation is indeed a recurring moment of history. For so many years the people of God in the Bible sojourned in foreign lands. However they were not mere parasites. They did contribute to the building of the nations who hosted them. Many great nations of the world today too are composed of migrants and refugees who, having been welcomed by their hosts, are now a great source of pride to those nations. Perhaps the final scorecard of Judgment Day is the extra incentive for Christians. The King will be uncompromising with his inquiry about those who show up in our space needing succor and love. That scorecard includes the obligation of giving shelter to the homeless, feeding the hungry and clothing the naked. Jesus will say “The king will answer them: ‘Truly, I say to you, whatever you did not do for one of these little ones, you did not do for me’” (Matt 25). Maybe the final word here ought to be what has often been said. “The level of compassion in the world is equal to the level of cruelty. It is left for those who believe in the love to keep tipping the balance in love’s favor”. And that in itself is the work of the Holy Spirit.

Live and let live The World day of Charity could not have been more timely. Today the world is hemorrhaging from many tragedies and crises. Poverty, disease, war, bombings, explosions, ethnic clashes, air, land and sea accidents from desperate attempts to migrate to other lands present us with gory stories of human misery and challenge our collective sanity as a human race. The sea of refugees seeking sanctuary in Europe, reaching over 300,000 people with well over 20 thousand already killed in the attempt has left even the world’s top leaders scratching their heads for solutions. Millions are displaced and live in misery in many countries of the world Yet we live in a world that could well cope with the needs of everyone. What needs to be regulated and checked is the greed of countries, institutions and individuals, who steal the rights of others to a dignified existence. If truly all human beings are homo sapiens,called to live, not by instinct but by reason, we would do all we can to help oth-

When you are in your season (2) Insight Rev.

Femi Akinola

www.thehebrewsng.com

01-790 3163; 0808 584 5864

Y

ou might have asked yourself this question: What are those factors I must sincerely consider when I am in my season of plenty? This should be well addressed if your latter end must be better than your former.

Don’t forget that life has seasons (the Rainy, Dry and Due) and it is what you do in these seasons that will determine the overflow you will experience in life.

“There is a time for everything, and a season for every activity under heaven.”

(Eccl 3:1, NIV) Here are some of the measures I have discovered in life and I believe if you take these measures you will enjoy in and out of your season in Jesus name.

When times are good, people will always flock around you and tend to be good to you. When the season changes, people change too. And if eventually, the season changes again for good for you, the same people will come back to want to enjoy with you. Most of those around you are fair-weather friends. Let me show you come covenant steps to take that will make you to always be relevant both in your season and even when you are out of your season. In essence, every time can be your season if only you are

mindful of these steps. v Tithing “Bring ye all the tithes into the storehouse, that there may be meat in mine house, and prove me now herewith, saith the LORD of hosts, if I will not open you the windows of heaven, and pour you out a blessing, that there shall not be room enough to receive it.” Mal 3:10 When God changes your life by blessing you, the first thing you ought to remove is your tithe like you always do from your small beginning. You must always bear in mind that the tithe is not yours, hence, you have no say over it other than to pay it. What many believers do is share their tithes among (or to) several ministries. This is simply an exercise in futility. Why? Because the scripture says, ‘bring ye all the tithes into the storehouse…’ not storehouses.

A man of God once said your tithe is the tenancy bill you pay for your staying on earth. Disobedience to tithing makes life very tithe and hard. v Offering “Honour the LORD with thy substance, and with the firstfruits of all thine increase: So shall thy barns be filled with plenty, and thy presses shall burst out with new wine.” Prov 3:9-10 You must make God first in all your dealings; this is the sure fire way to honour God. You cannot honour Him with your substance and run out of substance in life. Offering is what you offer to God in order for Him to keep you from suffering in life. Your offering transcends your generation; the quality and quantity of it per time goes a long

You see people run around for a long time searching for fulfilment, achievement and happiness and end up worse off than when they started all because they refuse to serve God way to tell God how much you hold Him in high esteem. Your offering is capable of reflecting your reverence and honor for God. Whatever it is that God gives to you in life is not meant to be utterly consumed.

You need to set a portion apart for sowing. Just as the farmer does not eat all that he harvests during the harvest season, there is a part he must set apart against the next planting season, it is not by reason of choice but of compulsion and necessity, otherwise, he need not be told he would go starving in the next season. So also, after you have removed your tithe, you need to set aside a portion as seed, else, the blessing would cease.

Let me quickly say here that your tithe is a debt, it is an obligation; in fact, more than an obligation while your offering is your show of love to your Maker. When you give to Him, you are showing how much you love Him. This is the reason it is easy to deduce your love for God from your offering. v Service To God “And the LORD spake unto Moses, Go unto Pharaoh, and say unto him, Thus saith the LORD, Let my people go, that

they may serve me.” Exo 8:1 No matter how beautiful, rich or how connected you are, you are created to serve God. Does it occur to you that when God wanted to deliver the Israelites from the hands of the Egyptians, what was uppermost in His mind was for them to serve Him? Be reminded that your utmost goal in life should be to give Him the pleasure He created you for because the Bible says He has created all things for His pleasure.

You see people run around for a long time searching for fulfilment, achievement and happiness and end up worse off than when they started all because they refuse to serve God. When you dedicate your life to serving God, He becomes jealous (on your behalf) and ensures you don’t take a wrong step in life. Even when you are about to go into a wrong marriage, God will frustrate it.

“I have not spoken in secret, in a dark place of the earth: I said not unto the seed of Jacob, Seek ye me in vain: I the LORD speak righteousness, I declare things that are right.” Isa 45:19 When you serve God faithfully, you will never become a servant of men because God is always jealous for His own.

You can’t serve God in your season and God will neglect when you in your time of need or in time of trouble.

Write me through; info@thehebrewsng. com.

0809 237 7861, 0808 584 5864.

You can also listen to my messages on our Podcast: www.thehebrewsng.com/ podcast.

Rev’d Femi Akinola – The Hebrews International, Lekki, Lagos.

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SUNDAY TELEGRAPH, SUNDAY SEPTEMBER 13, 2015

God keeps His covenant Wisdom of God’s Word

Pastor Nnadiaso Promise Jomo

Email: info@wisogc.org

+2347044799358/08146353090 (SMS only)

O

ur text for this teaching is taken from 89:1-37: “I will sing of the mercies of the Lord forever; with my mouth will I make known Your faithfulness to all generations. For I have said, ‘Mercy shall be built up forever. Your faithfulness You shall establish in the very heavens. ’‘I have made a covenant with My chosen, I have sworn to My servant David: ‘Your seed I will establish forever,And build up your throne to all generations.’ Selah And the heavens will praise Your wonders, O Lord; Your faithfulness also in the assembly of the saints.

For who in the heavens can be compared to the Lord? Who among the sons of the mighty can be likened to the Lord?

God is greatly to be feared in the assembly of the saints, And to be held in reverence by all those around Him. O Lord God of hosts, Who is mighty like You, O Lord?

Your faithfulness also surrounds You. You rule the raging of the sea; When its waves rise, You still them. You have broken Rahab in pieces, as one who is slain; You have scattered Your enemies with Your mighty arm.

The heavens are Yours, the earth also is Yours; The world and all its fullness, You have founded them.

The north and the south, You have created them; Tabor and Hermon rejoice in Your name. You have a mighty arm; Strong is Your hand, and high is Your right hand. Righteousness and justice are the foundation of Your throne; Mercy and truth go before Your face.

Blessed are the people who know the joyful sound!

They walk, O Lord, in the light of Your countenance. In Your name they rejoice all day long, And in Your righteousness they are exalted. For You are the glory of their strength, And in Your favor our horn is exalted. For our shield belongs to the Lord, And our king to the Holy One of Israel. Then You spoke in a vision to Your holy one, And said: “I have given help to one who is mighty; I have exalted one chosen from the people. I have found My servant David; With My holy oil I have anointed him, With whom My hand shall be established; Also My arm shall strengthen him. The enemy shall not outwit him, Nor the son of wickedness afflict him. I will beat down his foes before his face, And plague those who hate him. “But My faithfulness and My mercy shall be with him, And in My name his horn shall be exalted. Also I will set his hand over the sea, And his right hand over the rivers. He shall cry to Me, ‘You are my Father, My God, and the rock of my salvation.’ Also I will make him My firstborn, The highest of the kings of the earth.

My mercy I will keep for him forever, And My covenant shall stand firm with him. His seed also I will make to endure forever, And his throne as the days of heaven. ‘If his sons forsake My law And do not walk in My judgments, If they break My statutes And do not keep My commandments, Then I will punish their transgression with the rod,

His seed shall endure forever And his throne as the sun before Me; It shall be established forever like the moon And their iniquity with stripes. Nevertheless My loving kindness I will not utterly take from him, Nor allow My faithfulness to fail. My covenant I will not break, Nor alter the word that has gone out of My lips. Once I have sworn by My holiness; I will not lie to David: His seed shall endure forever And his throne as the sun before Me; It shall be established forever like the moon, Even like the faithful witness in the sky.”

Selah Covenant is a thing that the Church should be conversant with. They Church should tell others outside anywhere and at any time in covenant, that there must be faithfulness in it. We understand that covenant talks about agreement between two or more people. God being the originator of covenant cannot fail. So let’s talk about the faithfulness of God in covenant. If you miss any covenant principle then you have missed the blessing attached to it.

Sacrifice is something that you give; that is valuable to you. You then give it out to get more than what you expect. When you are being taught of truth and you don’t use it, it cannot work for you. The Lord says my covenant in this Church is not with them. God is wiser than anyone of us.

God talks about his faithfulness to David.

Faithfulness means the state of being faithful, loyal and observing fidelity. Allegiance means loyalty.

Loyalty means faithfulness or devotion to some person. Fidelity means being faithful

Faith

to one’s duty; it is the duty of God to keep the covenant that He has made with me.

Faithfulness is being faithful to one’s duty.

Tithes bring promotion to you. They don’t make you poor. So, anyone devoted to paying Tithe can never be poor or exposed to danger.

1. Faithfulness can never be made known without your mouth 2. God’s faithfulness can be established in our lives 3. Faithfulness can be practised among God’s people 4. God’s faithfulness cannot be compared with another person’s.

5. God’s faithfulness can be abide with His people 6. God’s faithfulness can also fail. When God’s faithfulness fail in a man’s life, then the man is exposed to danger. God’s faithfulness can fail in a man’s life due to sin.

God entered into a covenant with David because He chose him. There is a need for God to choose you. God chose David because there was a house that needed to be built. This was the house of God. There was nobody in Abraham’s house that would have followed God except Abraham. He never knew where he was going but gladly obeyed the lord and went. It takes a foolish man to succeed in life.

Why did God choose David?

God chose David because there was a need for a house that must be built for God. Except you are being fixed in the agenda of God you can never make it in life. The covenant of David is forever; that is where God’s faithfulness is demonstrated. Matthew 1:16-17, Luke 1:32-33. It took 42 generations from David to Christ.

If God has ever said anything concerning your life, in His faithfulness He is bound to bring it to pass. Do we still need to doubt God’s word in our life?

The tragedy of evil house Hour of Deliverance Pastor Isaac Adelugba xxxxxx

08058023548

Genesis 12:1-3 “Now the Lord had said unto Abram, Get thee out of thy country, and from thy kindred, and from thy father’s house, unto a land that I will shew thee: And I will make of thee a great nation, and I will bless thee, and make thy name great; and thou shalt be a blessing: And I will bless them that bless thee, and curse him that curseth thee: and in thee shall all families of the earth be blessed.”

God told Abraham to move out of his father’s house so that he can be blessed.

That means as long as Abraham stayed in his father’s house and refuse to move, there will be no blessing for him. Your shops, business may be located in a place that will make poverty, failure and sickness common phenomenon.

Close your eyes and pray the following prayer point.

• Holy Ghost fire move into the foundation of this building and burn to ashes all charms and fetish materials promoting satanic activities in the name of Jesus.

• Satanic powers of any occupant in the house, be destroyed by the blood of Jesus.

• Altars of satanic prophets and herbalist in the compound, blood of Jesus, render it impotent.

• Resident demons inside the shops, rooms and other areas of the building

go out in the name of Jesus.

Luke 4:14-32 “And Jesus returned in the power of the Spirit into Galilee: and there went out a fame of him through all the region round about. And he taught in their synagogues, being glorified of all. And he came to Nazareth, where he had been brought up: and, as his custom was, he went into the synagogue on the sabbath day, and stood up for to read. And there was delivered unto him the book of the prophet Esaias. And when he had opened the book, he found the place where it was written, The Spirit of the Lord is upon me, be.ause he hath anointed me to preach the gospel to the poor; he hath sent me to heal the brokenhearted, to preach deliverance to the captives, and recovering of sight to the blind, to set at liberty them that are bruised, to preach the acceptable year of the Lord. And he closed the book, and he gave it again to the minister, and sat down. And the eyes of all them that were in the synagogue were fastened on him. And he began to say unto them, This day is this scripture fulfilled in your ears.

And all bare him witness, and wondered at the gracious words which proceeded out of his mouth. And they said, Is not this Joseph’s son? And he said unto them, Ye will surely say unto me this proverb, Physician, heal thyself: whatsoever we have heard done in Capernaum, do also here in thy country. And he said, Verily I say unto you, No prophet is accepted in his own country. But I tell you of a truth, many widows were in Israel in the days of Elias, when the heaven was shut up three years and six months, when great famine was throughout all the land; but unto none of them was Elias sent, save unto Sarepta, a city of Sidon, unto a woman that was a widow. And many lepers were

Your shops, business may be located in a place that will make poverty, failure and sickness common phenomenon in Israel in the time of Eliseus the prophet; and none of them was cleansed, saving Naaman the Syrian. And all they in the synagogue, when they heard these things, were filled with wrath, And rose up, and thrust him out of the city, and led him unto the brow of the hill whereon their city was built, that they might cast him down headlong. But he passing through the midst of them went his way, and came down to Capernaum, a city of Galilee, and taught them on the sabbath days.

And they were astonished at his doctrine: for his word was with power.”

Jesus himself was rejected in His hometown and could not do much works there.

A lot of houses are cursed because the Landlord or Landlady is an evildoer or they cheated those who built the house through non-payment of their wages.

Jeremiah 22:13 “Woe unto him that buildeth his house by unrighteousness, and his chambers by wrong; that useth his neighbour’s service without wages, and giveth him not for his work;” Evil burials such as sacrifices are also in the foundation of many houses and some Landlords and Landladies are occultic.

Evil house is a swallower of prosperity riches, wealth and good health: Evil house can be a coven i.e. witchcraft assembly point. It is a place of hardship and great setback. A Christian must pray and get divine direction to know the secret of where he or she is living when things are not working well.

Deuteronomy 29:29 “29 The secret things belong unto the Lord our God: but those things which are revealed belong unto us and to our children for ever, that we may do all the words of this law.”

Daniel 2:21-23 “21 And he changeth the times and the seasons: he removeth kings, and setteth up kings: he giveth wisdom unto the wise, and knowledge to them that know understanding: 22 He revealeth the deep and secret things: he knoweth what is in the darkness, and the light dwelleth with him. 23 I thank thee, and praise thee, O thou God of my fathers, who hast given me wisdom and might, and hast made known unto me now what we desired of thee: for thou hast now made known unto us the king’s matter.” The secret is very important to survive and prosper.

Symptoms of evil house includes • Constant attacks in the nights despite fasting and prayer • Houses with occultic signs and symbols. It could also have satanic artworks and decorations such as statues Deuteronomy 7:25-26 “25 The graven images of their gods shall ye burn with fire: thou shalt not desire the silver or gold that is on them, nor take it unto thee, lest thou be snared therin: for it is an abomination to the Lord thy God. Neither shalt thou bring an abomination into thine house, lest thou be a cursed thing like it: but thou shalt utterly detest it, and thou shalt utterly abhor it; for it is a cursed thing.”

• Houses that are built inside markets Psalm 74:20 “20 Have respect unto the covenant: for the dark places of the earth are full of the habitations of cruelty.”

• Houses that the Landlords are herbalist and occultic people

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SUNDAY SEPTEMBER 13, 2015, SUNDAY TELEGRAPH

Faith

Power of your faith Taming your Emotions Bishop

Lawrence Osagie 0806 325 0667 www.powerlineministriesinc.org mail:powerlineministries@mail.com

A

nd a certain woman, which had an issue of blood twelve years, and had suffered many things of many physicians, and had spent all that she had, and was nothing bettered, but rather grew worse.

And when she heard of Jesus, came in the press behind, and touched his garment for she said, if I may touch but his cloths.

I shall be whole. And straightway the fountain of her blood dried up; and she felt in her body that she was healed of that plague.

And Jesus immediately knowing in himself that virtue had gone out of him, turned him about to the press, and said who touch my clothes? And his disciples said unto him, thou seest the multitude thronging thee, and sayest thou, who touched me? And he looked round about to see her that had done this thing.

But she fearing and trembling, knowing what was done in her, came and fell down before him, and told him all the truth.

And he said unto her, daughter, thy faith hath made thee whole, go in peace, and be whole of the plague - Mark 5: 25-34.

The issue of blood was the mountain that was before this woman; the mountain stood between her, and her destiny. There was no progress in her life for 12 years.

The issue occupied the place of her dream.

For 12 years, she sought for an answer

but instead of getting one, the situation became worse.

One day, she had her way of intervention with Jesus. She prophesied over her life, telling herself to touch the hem of his garment; she spoke and pressed through the crowd by faith. With every step of faith you take towards God, He takes a hundred. When man and God meet only a miracle can take place. Do not allow any human being or your circumstance stop you from getting your breakthrough.

There is an angle of your life not known to man. Satan desires for you to stop where you are not meant to, so that that angle will never be discovered Immediately the woman with the issue of blood touched Jesus, the source or her mockery, shame, laughter and question mark was taken away. It doesn’t take God a year to change a man’s situation. In place of disgrace, honour was bestowed upon her. God knows the difference between the various touches He gets from people. The touch of faith is not casual.

The time of your life is not in the hands of any man. The woman activated her faith in Jesus.

Now faith is the substance of things hoped for, the evidence of things not seen.

Hebrew 11:1 For through the grace given unto me, to every man that is among you. Not think out him more highly than he ought to think, but to think sober; according as God hath dealth to every man the measure of faith - Romans 12: 3 Everyone has faith; a measure of it. It is one thing to have faith and another to put it to use. That people face mountains does not remove the fact that you possess faith.

Your faith remains powerless, useless and paralysed until it is exercised. Faith not exercised is unproductive. Put your faith

Jesus immediately knowing in himself that virtue had gone out of him, turned him about to the press, and said who touch my clothes

to work; attach it to an action. God is not a respecter of persons and He’s the same, yesterday, today, and forever.

What he did for Abraham, Isaac, Jacob and David He can still do it for you if only you’ll exercise your faith.

Who against hope believed in hope, that he might become the father of many nations, according to that which was spoken, so shall they seed be; and being not weak in faith, he considered not his own body now dead, when he was about an hundred years old, rather yet the deadness of Sarah’s womb. He staggered not at the promises of God through unbelief; but was strong in faith, giving glory to God and been fully persuaded that, what he had promised, he was able also to perform - Romans 4:18-21.

Mountains are just plans of the devil to keep the believers faraway from God. So fear and unbelief develop, he then take the fear back to God to stop their blessing.

Where fear is, faith cannot work. People’s Goliath doesn’t kill them but the fear in the hands of the enemy causes faith not to work in warfare.

And there set a certain man at lustre impotent in his feet, been crippled from his mother’s womb, who never had walked.

The same had Paul speak; who steadfastly beholding him, and perceiving that he had faith to be healed. Act 14:8-9

As Paul was speaking the word of God, faith was being developed within the cripple. When Paul commanded him to stand he did receive his miracle. Signs and wonders happen to those who live by faith and not by the wisdom of man.

Take a decision of faith to prove God in your life.

And as Jesus departed thence, two blind men followed him, crying saying, thou son of David have mercy on me.

Never stop following Jesus, no matter the duration of your challenge. Don’t give up on your heart desires. The capacity to believe pulls on the grace of God. Your faith determines how far you will go.

I am crucified with Jesus: nevertheless I live; yet not I, but Christ liveth in me? And the life which I now live in the fresh I live by faith of the son of God who loved me and gave himself for me - Galatians 2: 20.

Your faith must be anchored in Christ Jesus and not any man. Don’t mix emotion with spirituality.

And said unto them, because of your unbelief; for verily I say unto you, if ye have faith as a grain of mustard seed, ye shall say unto this mountain, remove hence to yonder place; and it shall remove; and nothing shall be impossible unto you Mattew 17: 20.

The boy’s father noticed the disciples couldn’t give him what he wanted, so he took his son to Jesus. (The boy’s situation) could not be moved because of lack of faith. With a word from Jesus, the boy was healed. All we need is faith even as small as mustard seed. It is not the size of your faith, but exercising it - that moves mountains. Faith enabled Daniel, Joshua, Abednego, Shedrach and Meshach to achieve great miracles. With faith, all things are possible. Impossibility is made possible through faith.

Christian life: Are you winning souls for God or for Satan?

The Soul Winning for God Foundation Evang.

(Barr) Ezenwa Cyril C

08032614653

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e are born of God through Jesus Christ and the Spirit of God is upon us. Therefore, when the Spirit of God dwells upon a man, such individual begins to live a Christ-Like-Life. Now, the question is, are you an ambassador of God? Are you a soul winner for God? Are you working for God or Satan? Is your life impacting salvation and righteousness on people or unrighteousness? Are you busy working and attracting souls for the kingdom of darkness or Kingdom of God? Beloved, if you can answer in the affirmative, (i.e. you are winning souls for God) then you are not only a peculiar person but a treasured possession of the Almighty God and heaven is your reward. Remember those that do what our heavenly father commands completely, shall take part in heaven; earth and all beneath is their inheritance. But for a disobedient child, he shall be cast into the hell fire. Rev. 20 v 15, Ezekiel 7:3-9.

The life of Christ is a life of righteousness.

When a Christian cannot live a Christ-LikeLife, such a Christian is not making a part for him or herself in heaven and at the same time not winning souls for God through Jesus Christ.

Once a person proclaims Christianity, automatically, that person is assumed to be

Christ-like because, Christianity came from Christ and Christ is holiness.

If the life of any Christian is not winning souls for God through Jesus Christ, then that Christian needs fundamental overhaul of his life. What you do every day and what people see you do every day has a long way to win and convert souls for God or for Satan even though you may not know or care about it but that is certainly the truth about life and that is why you should be careful about your act before you start winning souls for the kingdom of darkness instead of populating the kingdom of God as a Christian.

May be, you don’t know that you are the mirror through which others see. Therefore, the moment people admire what does not give glory to the name of the Lord in your life, you are winning souls for the devil. Yet, you call yourself a child of God and a Christian because you still assume that you are born of God. Any act of yours that people emulate but not to the glory of God, is a machinery through which you work for the devil, win souls for the devil and populate the kingdom of darkness. Thus, the judgment of God shall be hot on that person who lures a child of God into unrighteousness and immorality.

However, don’t you know you have to love God through Jesus Christ by showing total obedience to the commandments and will of God? Jesus Christ is loved by God and He remains in God’s love because He obeyed His will in totality without complaints or grudges in his heart. He never did it the way it pleased him or chose the ones to obey. The Bible says, not until your obedience is fulfilled and complete, your Lord God will not set you on high above other nations. Total obedience to God’s com-

I will judge you according to your conduct and repay you for all your detestable practices. I will not look on you with pity or spare you mands attracts blessings and prosperity of Life. How can you claim to love Jesus Christ when you hate Him? How can you claim to love God when you hate Jesus Christ? Jn. 14. The only way you can love God is through Jesus Christ and the only way you can love Jesus Christ is by total obedience to His principles and teachings. You have no right to choose the part you want to obey and disobey the other. You cannot choose to attend church services, give your offerings and tithes but you belong to one cult or the other. You cannot claim to love God, but you dress to seduce, rob people, steal, envy, backbite, gossip, kill, worship other gods, use human beings for rituals, conspire against people, make a mockery of God, have an unbelieving spirit, lack faith, keep sugar daddies or sugar mummies, sleep out of your marriage, marry more than one wife, break faith with the wife of your youth or your husband by divorcing him.

Apparently, you cannot love God when you are a hypocrite, believing and having charms around you or in your house, committing adultery or fornication, having sexual relationship with your boyfriends and girlfriends. It is also impossible for you to claim to love God when you are engaging in fraudulent activities called 419, yahoo-yahoo or mock yourself by drinking yourself to stupor and engaging in such immoral activities. The above are some of

the unrighteous acts which is not supposed to be found in the life of any child of God. Every act of unrighteousness is evil and an abomination unto God. All that choose to live contrary to the commandments of our God are an abomination unto Him and abominable people cannot enter into the kingdom of God. But they shall have their part in the kingdom of darkness where fire will burn them for eternity. He that sinneth is not of God but of the devil because it is only the devil that sinneth from the beginning. For a child of God to command devil out of his life for prosperity to take place, he must be obedient to keep the commandments of God. The principle is simple: he that disobeys cannot command the devil because he is of the devil already. Beloved, your life has refused to change for good because of disobedience to the commandments of the Almighty God. A child of God is not permitted to remain in sin after he or she has been cleansed by God. It is an abomination to remain in sin that grace might abound. The time of grace is running out. Come the way you are to meet Jesus Christ but don’t remain the way you came. For no one meets the true vine and remain the same. As Christians, we must live up to all righteousness, having it at the back of our minds that there is a punishment for every sin. Ezekiel 7 v 3-6 says: “The end is now upon you. I will unleash my anger against you. I will judge you according to your conduct and repay you for all your detestable practices. I will not look on you with pity or spare you. I will surely repay for your conduct and detestable practices among you, then you will know that I am the Lord.” “Do not be deceived, God is not mocked, for a man will reap according to what he sows”

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SUNDAY TELEGRAPH, SUNDAY SEPTEMBER 13, 2015

Faith

Another thing to do to overcome marital delay is: Relationships Rev. Solomon Ojigiri sowoojigiri@yahoo.com. everwining@wining.com.

08059203554/08023997277

DO NOT BE TOO POSSESSIVE OR JEALOUS So many courtships had failed to metamorphose into marriage due to jealousy or due to the fact that one or both parties were super possessive. To be possessive means that you like to dominate and control the life of your spouse. When you so much shield your partner or friend so much that he or she is not allowed to relate with others freely without being suspected then the other party that is monitoring and shielding the other is jealous or over possessive. There are ladies or men that can quarrel with their fiancé or fiancee just because he or she merely greeted someone of the opposite sex.

There are those who are mere casual friends but shield their friends who are of the opposite sex from having contact with any other person of the opposite sex. How can you be in courtship with somebody and he or she must never be seen with any other person! I am not in support of double-dealing or double dating but the issue is that before you got to know the lady or the man, I believe he or she must have known some others. It is therefore unreasonable to think that he or she is no

more entitled to interact with anyone. I have heard sisters or even brothers tell me of the need for them to quit a relationship because the brother or sister is unnecessarily jealous or too possessive.

I am aware of what is called ‘Legitimate jealousy’ between husband and wife but in this case I believe the jealousy was not legitimate. I heard the story of a lady who poured hot water on her fiance’s sister thinking that the sister was the girlfriend that wanted to snatch her man. You can guess the outcome of such relationship.

Of course the man had to back out. The fact that someone is your friend or relates with you does not mean he or she has no right to relate with someone else. The two of you need to relate with others so you can grow properly with such wholesome relationship. By learning from others you can be all that God wants you to be. When someone finds it difficult to allow you to relate with others, the problem might be that he or she did not trust you, it could also be that the person has problem with insecurity or low self-esteem. Thirdly, it could be that you are responsible either by your inconsistencies or lack of focus. Perhaps, you are fickle, feeble and unstable, always changing or possibly because you do not share your heart with him or her.

No one will trust you when you are not open or you are secretive.

Sometimes ladies, especially, can sense that a particular person of the opposite sex is having interest in her fiancé or her husband if she is married, such issues should be well handled with wisdom with your spouse. In such circumstances the wife needs to protect the husband with that

legitimate jealousy. so also the fiancé/fiancée relationship. Some folks are too dangerous to be allowed to close mark your fiancé or fiancée. Discuss with him or her and if he or she is truly not interested in that person, he or she will certainly listen and take corrections. If he or she refuses to change, you need to quit that relationship.

He may prefer that person to you.

It is better to conclude with the words of Norman Wright thus; “What happens to a relationship when jealously appears?

This green-headed monster creates more problems than it can resolve. It becomes a self-fulfilling prophecy because the other person tires from the lack of trust. And frequently our jealousy is not because of what our partners are doing or not doing.

It is simply a reflection of the insecurities in ourselves that we need to take a hard look at.”

You become possessive when you are no longer secure, when someone who is very close to you tries to get closer or relate with others. You feel he or she should be spending all her time or his time with you and give you all her attention. Sometimes this occurs as a result of low self-esteem.

Please understand that no matter who you are trying to relate with, such a person does not emerge from the sky. He or she must have had some other relations or be in relationships with some other persons before he or she ever met you.

Without any doubt, he or she must have known some other people before you, and knowing you should not make him or her to cut off his or her relationship with everyone.

Allow him or her to relate freely with

others. Please cease from the habit of suffocating people’s lives with suspicion. A suspicious mindset can really be frustrating in a relationship. Some ladies had beaten their fiancé’s sisters, some had poured hot water on their fiance’s sisters who came on a visit because they were not patient enough to find out what was going on.

Please avoid living by suspicion. Some are so suspicious they feel like monitoring the movement of their fiancé or fiancée.

Some are not yet in courtship but they make sure nobody greets the brother or sister even though they are just casual friends and not in a courtship yet. It is nothing but insecurity and not many people would like to marry any man or any lady who is not secure in themselves.

Why do you think you have a right to relate with your own friends but he or she cannot or should not relate with his or her own friends or even classmates?

You must also avoid jealousy and envy.

Do not seek to monopolise his or her time.

He or she certainly needs time to develop himself or herself in other areas of life. Do not demand for too much attention, give him or her the opportunity to be himself or herself, allow him or her to build healthy relationships with others. We must refuse to be selfish.

LET HEAR YOUR VIEW Send us your opinion through text messages or email:sowooojigiri@yahoo.com You are in Courtship with a man or a lady who slapped his or her parents in your presence, what will you do considering the fact that you love him or her so much.

Accessing God’s plan from His book!

The Voice of Dominion by

Bishop David Oyedepo

7747546-8 (SMS only)

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e understand from scriptures that every man’s vision is contained in the Book called the Bible. In other words, the Bible is the custodian of God’s visions, plans and purposes for our lives. For instance, it was said of Jesus that He discovered God’s vision for His life on earth, in the volume of the Book. At another time, Jesus read from the scriptures and said, “This day is this scripture fulfilled in your ears.” This implies that there are things written about us in the Bible that await our discoveries (Psalm 40:7; Hebrews 10:7; Luke 4:14-21; Isaiah 29:11-12).

Furthermore, this Book of vision shows us who we are in Christ, what we are worth in redemption, what we can do and how to do them in order to fulfil God’s plan and purpose for our lives (Joshua 1: 8; Deuteronomy 28:1).

Here are three illustrations that help us to see the Bible as the custodian of God’s plan for our lives: •The Bible is the Creator’s Manual for Living: We understand from scriptures that we are God’s products and the Bible is His manual that empowers us to discover and pursue His plan and purpose for our lives.

Remember the Bible says we are His people and the sheep of His pasture (Joshua 1:8; Jeremiah 29:11; Isaiah 2:1, Isaiah 14:24; Psalm 100:3).

•The Bible is the Spiritual Water that shows us what we look like: We understand from scriptures that the Word of God is

likened to water that reflects our nature in Christ. Just as our reflections appear when we look into a bowl of water, our true identity in Christ is also revealed to us when we study God’s Word. This was graphically illustrated by a story that was told by Kenneth E. Hagin of a lion cub that was captured and made to grow among sheep.

It lost its identity by virtue of the environment it found itself, until the day it saw its reflection on the surface of the water. That day, it regained its identity and confidence, and stood its ground when the other sheep fled at the appearance of a lion. This illustration helps us to understand that when we look into (Study) God’s Word and believe what He says about us, He confers us with dominion over every torment of wickedness (Ephesians 5:26; Proverbs 27:19).

• The Bible is the Spiritual mirror that reveals (shows) the actual worth of the Redeemed: When we behold God’s picture for our lives from the mirror of the Word and take responsibility as contained therein, that picture becomes a reality in us (James 1:22-25; 2 Corinthians 3:18).

However, we must recognize that the Bible is sealed to everyone that is not redeemed. Until we are born again, we cannot access the sealed plan of God from the Bible. This is because, only the redeemed has access to the mysteries of the Kingdom of God (Mark 4:11; John 1:12).

Let’s examine two pictures of who we are from scriptures: • From scriptures, we discover that every child of God is Redeemed a Spiritual Lion: Before his fall in the Garden of Eden, man was the king of all creation.

But after the fall, he was dethroned and became a victim of the wickedness of the devil, until Jesus Christ, the Lion of the Tribe of Judah came to restore man to his dominion and Christ-like status. As a result, every child of God is redeemed a

spiritual lion, and ordained for dominion over every situation and circumstance (Revelations 5:5; John 17:18; Hebrews 2:11; Proverbs 30:29-30; Genesis 49:8-12).

But, what does it take to manifest our Lion Nature?

Firstly, we must understand that the dominion of a lion is a function of its strength, and its strength is a function of the quality of meat that it feeds on. “Meat” here connotes principles from the Word of God (Jeremiah 15:16).

There are four levels of nutrition in the Word of God: • The water level of the Word (Isaiah 55:1, 10-11).

• The milk level of the Word (1 Peter 2:2).

• The meat level of the Word (Hebrew 13: 9).

• Strong meat level of the Word: “Strong meat” here implies scriptural mysteries that confer masteries (dominion) on the redeemed (Hebrew 5:13-14; Psalm 45:3-5; 1Corinthians 2:9).

Therefore, to keep the lion in us alive, we must do the following: • Feed on strong meat: Just as the natural lion feeds on the wild beasts to sustain its vigour, vitality and dominion, we must also feed on the strong meat of the Word (mysteries) in order to dominate every challenge that may confront us (Hebrew 5:14).

• Feed on Fresh Meat: Lions thrive on fresh kills; they don’t feed on yesterday’s meal. Similarly, the fresher the revelation we encounter, the more alive the lion in us becomes and the more dominion we would command (Luke 11:3; John 5:30; John 8:28-29).

• Feed on the Meat in Season: The meat in season here refers to the timely Word from God that deals with the issue at hand. However, we must understand that every lion either hunts for its food or dies of hunger. That simply means, if

we are not Word-hunters, the lion in us would be weak and helpless (Isaiah 50:4; Matthew 8:28-32; Matthew 13:54).

• The second picture from scripture is that every child of God is redeemed a Star: Star, here, means being trailblazers, pacesetters and being at the top of our pursuits. Also, we understand from scriptures that Jesus, the Bright and Morning Star, was not ashamed to call us His brethren. Bright and morning star means to shine early in life as Jesus did from the age of 12 and David, who slew Goliath at the age of 17 (Revelation 22:16; Hebrews 2:11; Luke 2:42-49; 1 Samuel 17:48-51; John 17:18; John 14:12).

But, what does it take to be a Star in the Kingdom?

• We must think Like Stars: Our thoughts determine our lot in life. That is why nothing defines destiny like mentality (Proverbs 23:7).

• We must be Disciplined: Self-discipline is the price for distinction (1 Corinthians 9:25-27).

• We must be diligent: We must be diligently committed to our task (1 Corinthians 9:24; Proverbs 22: 29).

• We must be willing to pay the price of Sacrifice: This means commitment to be stretched beyond our best, in order to actualize a given assignment. Remember, there is no star without a scar and the scar of every star is sacrifice (Luke 12:49-50).

Friend, we must recognize that we are absolutely responsible for the outcome of our lives. No one is to be blamed.

Are you born again? Is Jesus Christ your Saviour and Lord? If you haven’t accepted Him, you can do so now as you say this prayer: “Lord Jesus, I come to You today. I am a sinner. Forgive me of my sins. Cleanse me with Your precious Blood.

Deliver me from sin and satan to serve the Living God. Today, I accept You as my Lord and Saviour. Thank You Jesus for saving me!

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SUNDAY SEPTEMBER 13, 2015, SUNDAY TELEGRAPH

Faith

My life as broadcaster - Alabi Ace broadcaster, Akinkunmi Alabi, has spent 25 years in the broadcasting profession with inexplicable experience. He is set to formally launch his AA foundation to expose new breed broadcasters to the unknown. In this interview with ADEOLU ADEYEMO, he argues that a good broadcaster should have an appealing voice that commands the audience There is the need for variety.

That is why you should be current with happenings around you. This brings about creativity. There are times rehearsals become so inconsequential that things will just require impromptu approaches

Alabi

You have spent a lot of years in broadcasting. How is the journey so far?

The journey has been full of ups and downs. A lot of challenges sprang up which almost turned my zeal down. It was not all that smooth at the beginning but along the line, especially with the support of God Almighty, I crossed the line.

Armed with determination and burning courage within me, I trudged on, not minding the hitches and the professional hiccups associated with journalism. It is not that I am a super hero. Journalism and broadcasting require natural ability to speak and for that speech to be coherent and generally accepted by the listeners. In this field, you don’t just talk, you speak.

Talking differs from speeches. From nonsense, we bring out sense through our presentations. To your question, the journey has been smooth and rough; clean and dirty; pleasant and unpleasant; frustrating and challenging; pleasing and displeasing; turbulent and calm; violent and odd. That is the spirit of journalism and broadcasting. I am even set to launch AA Foundation at WOCDIF Centre, Osogbo on September 13, where A’B’C of broadcasting will be exposed to newbreed broadcasters.

What makes a good broadcaster and what really is broadcasting itself?

Starting with who a good broadcaster is, there are many factors which must be inherent in the person wanting to take up broadcasting as a profession. One, a good broadcaster should not be forced into it. The readiness to be one must be a natural instinct.

It is impossible to pass it from generation to generation. However, qualities differ. I, as a presenter, find it absolutely

difficult to list those qualities people see in me before becoming my fans. On that note, a good broadcaster should have an appealing voice that commands an audience. A good voice with electrifying intonation and speech decorum also comes with it. As someone who is privileged to speak on the air, ethical courtesy demands that modesty as we open our mouths is needed. That one is a presenter is not a licence for lousiness and vulgarism. Besides, a good presenter must possess currency and accuracy. You should not be a broadcaster who repeats same events all the time.

There is the need for variety. That is why you should be current with happenings around you. This brings about creativity. There are times rehearsals become so inconsequential that things will just require impromptu approaches. A good broadcaster can be called upon at any point in time, to duty. Excuse like’I am not prepared for this’ does not and should not arise. You should possess that sense of creativity that can stand the test of time.

You should always be alert to rise to any occasion of emergency in the discharge of your duties. Humility comes in here too.

An arrogant presenter is not likely to have a large followership. It is a quality most broadcasters lack. Before, during and after presentation, do not let humility elude you. This will help you as you progress in your broadcasting career.

Originality of purpose is also indispensable. Do not copy. Let your presentations depict originality and not imitations. Try to be you.

Mind your social life as a broadcaster.

Be cautions of it as people you think are not interested in you watch with

keen interest. Be decent as you socialise.

Moderation matters here. Broadcasting in journalism transcends mere presentation. Your professional mannerism and idiosyncrasies are married together to form broadcasting. As you broadcast, you teach, inform, counsel, preach, console, heal, mould, lead, reform, and solve problems. You check conflicts, moderate and you do a lot of things that can make or mar the lives of your viewers and listeners as the case may be. Broadcasting is a profession which could be transmitted in the audio/visual media. It is a professional department in journalism and communications that recreates the thinking of man, promotes relaxation for mental and psychological healing and educates in all ramifications dwelling on the various experiences of man.

Is broadcasting in Nigeria of global standard and acceptance? If not, what are the problems you think are facing broadcasting, could there be improvements?

I want to say that broadcasting in Nigeria is averagely commendable. Be that as it may, I want to say very boldly that quacks have almost hijacked this profession of ours. You wake up day after day to see a non-professional anchoring a programme, all because he/she is related to the studio directors or some ‘ogas’ at the top. People venture into broadcasting or let me say journalism probably after they have tried several jobs and they now settle for media houses. Without being biased, I see no reason why a non-broadcaster who had undergone no professional training should present any programme. It is ethically wrong and professionally stinking.

Look, the right pegs should be put in the right holes. Let Peter be Peter and Judas be Judas. This is really affecting the profession. Another thing working against this job is the proliferation of stations.

The NBC now issues licences to whoever comes forward for it. We should x-ray the pedigree of the applicants. Are they truly professionals? Are they politicians who pretend to be professionals to achieve their political motives or campaign against their political enemies?

Another thing we should consider is the issue of modern gadgets. How many stations have the required modern gadgets for global transmissions? How relevant are these modern gadgets? There are some gadgets in some stations which have gone into oblivion when it comes to transmission that will be hitch-free. All the same, we are getting there gradually. Improvements are being noticed and as we move on, we shall definitely get there.

What are the job hazards of a professional broadcaster?

We have to thank God that the military era is gone where the freedom of the press was always stampeded upon and thrown into the bin. During the military era, we had very terrible experiences that I do not want to recall.

Infact, we lost some of our colleagues then. These days too, we have our hazards. Some work very late into the night and we can be caught in the midst of robbers and questionable marauders.

Most of us can be waylaid for certain utterances. Many of us are mobbed at parties by our fans and in the process, valuable items could be stolen. Some of us work round the clock that our families suffer. Some get sacked for speaking against some government, policies, etc especially those working with government parastatals. Some have no job security; especially when private station owners have that power to sack or dismiss at will.

What piece of advice do you have for the up-coming broadcasters/presenters?

Sincerely speaking, broadcasting is not a profession you force yourself into. A lot of skills are required before delving into this profession. Be patient and don’t ever see it as the last point of call after all attempts have failed at other professions.

If you are looking for money, don’t come into this profession. If you want fame and popularity, then you are welcome.

However, your fame and popularity must come with impeccable integrity.

Do not stray into broadcasting. Be sure you have the interest and zeal. Have dignity and honour. Be excessively hardworking and you should be ready to work round the clock. A lazy person will be an outstanding failure in the field of broadcasting if he ventures into it.

Diligence matters a lot in broadcasting.

Money is not everything in our profession. You should be content with your take home. Engage not in shady deals.

Do not support any political party while on the air. You must be transparently apolitical. Be neutral focused, decent, calm, cool, submissive, thorough and purposeful. Do not let money rule you or becloud your vision.

SundayBusiness SUNDAY

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News

Abuja Centenary City: Buhari’s nod excites stakeholders

p.48

How Nigeria will respond to JP Morgan delisting –CBN

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Paul Ogbuokiri and Chijioke Iremake

Brands Nobody died in Balogun fire - Market leader p.50

Interview

Nigeria is Jumia’s biggest market - Martin p.50

Paul Ogbuokiri Head, Business paulogbuokiri@newtelegraph online.com

© Daily Telegraph Publishing Company Limited

igeria’s major financial sector regulatory authorities and institutions, the Ministry of Finance, Debt Management Office and Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) have responded to the intention of global investment banking outfit, JP Morgan to phase out Nigeria from its emerging market bond index by the end of October. The institutions said they disagreed with the premise and conclusions upon which the decision rests Nigeria has gone almost full circle from a favored investor destination in Africa three years ago -- because of its status as the continent’s largest crude producer and most populous nation -- to being rebuffed. While most of the weakening sentiment is due to the more than halving in oil prices since last year.

Nigerian bonds were added to JPMorgan’s Government Bond Index-Emerging Markets Index, or GBI-EM, in 2012 after the central bank under Lamido Sanusi had scrapped foreign investment restrictions and took measures to control inflation and steady the currency.

The inclusion into the bond index boosted sentiment, with foreign portfolio investment flows surging to 1 trillion naira ($5 billion) in 2013 and 1.5 trillion naira in 2014, from 808 billion naira in 2012, overtaking domestic investment in the past two years. Foreigners accounted for 58 percent of portfolio investment transactions last year, up from 15 percent in 2007, according to data from the Nigerian Stock Exchange.

On Tuesday, New York-based JPMorgan announced an about-turn after foreign-exchange controls introduced

by Sanusi’s successor, Godwin Emefiele, to stem the currency’s slide dried up liquidity. Gareth Brickman, a market analyst at ETM Analytics NA LLC in Stamford, Connecticut estimates that funds tracking the JPMorgan indexes will need to sell more than $3 billion of Nigerian bonds.

Vice president of Teneo Intelligence in London, Manji Cheto told Blommberg that on Wednesday. “For things to turn around so quickly in three years’ time shows how important it is for governments to recognize that market sentiment is so fickle, and I don’t think the Nigerian government ever really understood this.”

But the Federal Ministry of Finance, Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) and Debt Management Office (DMO) said Nigeria and the interest of Nigerians is paramount in the CBN’s decision to protect the country’s economy, which resulted in the JP Morgan’s delisting Nigeria.

They as well as other captains of industry said Nigerian will continue to take economic decisions that will im-

For things to turn around so quickly in three years’ time shows how important it is for governments to recognize that market sentiment is so fickle, and I don’t think the Nigerian government ever really understood this pact positively on the lives of all citizens, whether being delisted from its Government Bond Index for Emerging Markets (GBI-EM) or not.

A statement by Central Bank’s Director Corporate Communications, Mr. Ibrahim Mu’azu, on behalf of the three institutions responsible for the management of the Nigerian economy, the trio said the market for FGN Bonds remains strong and active due primarily to the strength and diversity of the domestic investor base.

“While we respect the right of JP Morgan to make this decision, we would like to strongly disagree with the premise and conclusions upon which the decision rests.

Nigeria was included on the index in October 2012, based on the existence of an active domestic market for FGN Bonds supported by a two-way quote system, dedicated market makers and diverse investors.

“However, in January 2015, JP Morgan placed Nigeria on an index watch as a result of their concerns in the operations of our foreign exchange market, namely: 1) lack of liquidity for transactions; 2) lack of transparency in the determination of the exchange rate; and 3) lack of a fully functional two-way forex market.

“In our continuous bid to strengthen the Nigerian financial market and enhance our status as a preferred destination for investors, we took measures to improve the market. Despite the fact that oil prices have fallen by nearly 60 per cent in one year, which should expectedly reduce the amount of

liquidity in the market, the CBN ensured that all genuine and effective demand was met, especially those from foreign investors,” the statement said.

The statement noted that CBN mandated that all forex transactions were posted online in the Reuters trading platform so that all stakeholders can easily verify all transactions in the market. In addition, the official forex window at the CBN was closed to ensure a level-playing field in the pricing of foreign exchange.

It drew the attention of JP Morgan to the reality of a functional two-way forex market in Nigeria, saying, “given the high propensity for speculation, round tripping, and rent-seeking in the market, it became imperative that participants are not allowed to simply trade currencies but are only in the market to fulfill genuine customer demand to pay for eligible imports and other transactions.”

It further said that it is in the light of this that the regulator introduced an orderbased, two-way forex market, which has resulted in the stability of the exchange rate in the interbank market over the past seven months and largely eliminated speculators from the market. It stressed that it would rather remain on position than remove this rule, though it is obvious that doing so would lead to an indeterminate depreciation of the naira.

“With dwindling oil prices, we believe that an order-based two-way market best serves Nigeria’s interest at the moment. We will continue to ensure that there is liquidity and transparency in the market; they assured JP Morgan and other investors that the market for FGN Bonds remained strong and active due primarily to the strength and diversity of the domestic investor base.

“For the avoidance of doubt, the Federal Government sees Nigeria and the interest of Nigerians as paramount. It will therefore only continue to take economic decisions that will impact positively in the lives of all CONTINUED ON PAGE 49

48

Business News

Abuja Centenary

Buhari also welcomed Abubakar’s assertion that the project would create about 250,000 more direct jobs in the Federal Capital Territory and about half a million indirect jobs

SUNDAY SEPTEMBER 13, 2015, SUNDAY TELEGRAPH

Abuja Centenary City: Buhari’s nod excites stakeholders

Abdulwahab Isa

P Abuja

resident Muhammadu Buhari’s declaration a fortnight ago that his administration would uphold some legacy projects initiated by his immediate predecessor, Dr. Goodluck Jonathan, undoubtedly, has elicited applause from key members of the private sector.

On top of the list of such projects is the multibillion naira Abuja Centenary City.

The declaration has laid to rest fears that it could be frustrated by the current administration and how this would affect investors that had sunk funds into it.

Leading a team of eminent ACC members on a visit to Buhari in Abuja recently, a former military head of state, Gen. Abdulsalami Abubakar, who chairs the board of directors, provided insight on the concept and sources of funding.

Abubakar, according to a source, opened the project’s books and informed Buhari that no government money had been spent on it. “No kobo of the Federal Government went into the building of Centenary City,’ the source quoted the former head of state as telling the President.

Abubakar and the management of the Centenary City also told Buhari and VicePresident Yemi Osinbajo that the project would be totally driven by the private sector.

An elated Buhari welcomed assurances from Centenary City Plc that all the original inhabitants of the site had been fully compensated. Speaking after the briefing, Buhari praised its main development partners from the United Arab Emirates for having enough confidence in Nigeria to agree to sink about $18.5 billion into the project.

Buhari also welcomed Abubakar’s assertion that the project would create about 250,000 more direct jobs in the Federal Capital Territory and about half a million indirect jobs.

The President spotted immense benefits in terms of the skills, expertise and vast experience to be brought into the country. He stated that this would also be of immense benefit to Nigeria’s overall development.

He said he looked forward to regular updates on the Centenary City’s development.

Osinbajo, who was present at the briefing, said the issue of the rights of the original inhabitants of the site acquired for the Centenary City had been of concern to the current administration.

Abuja Centenary City is a novel idea conceived to add to the uniqueness of the Federal Capital Territory as Nigeria’s city within a mega city. The project, by intent and purposes of its promoters, is a replica of Dubai wonders in Nigeria soil.

Rich in facilities and modern technologies, the 25-hectare project is located about 30 minutes’ drive from Nnamdi Azikwe International Airport, Abuja. It is also a joint venture between the Federal Government and Eagle Hills, a Dubai-based firm specialising in development, creation and reinvigoration of urban centres.

A commemorative project endorsed by the previous administration to celebrate Nigeria’s 100 years of nationhood, it is estimated to cost about $180.6 billion with a completion period of 10 years.

The Office of the Secretary to Government of the Federation is the government’s proxy eye in the project. The immediate past SGF, Chief Pius Anyim,

There will be two stages of job creation, which include the construction phase and the services stage. The first phase which is the five-star hotel and residence will be completed within four years Buhari

was government’s monitor designated to oversee its progress.

The City represents a revolutionary approach to urbanisation in Africa and champion’s the private sector’s role in projects of significant magnitude.

The project has a life span. By the end of its planned five-year development cycle, other extra economic mileages the Nigerian economy stands to reap from the multi-billion naira centenary project includes the creation of over 50,000 construction jobs and 5,000 permanent wellpaying jobs. The ACC is planned for a residential population of about 100,000 people but also designed to host about 500,000 visitors daily.

In addition, the city is envisaged to promote world-class multinational and domestic businesses and contribute substantially to Nigeria’s economic growth.

Construction work has commenced on the first phase of the centenary city and is being developed by Eagles Hill.

According to the Executive Director of Eagles Hill, Mr. Jaimal Shergill, the first phase named ‘The Address and Residence’ would offer a combination of resi-

dential and hotel spaces, spanning across 25 hectares of land with world class amenities, restaurants and more.

He added that ‘The Address’ would bring its five-star services to elevate the city’s standard of living with luxury villas featuring four to nine bedroom units.

Despite being a Public Private Partnership, Shergill explained that the centenary city, as a free trade zone, would be exempted from both federal and state taxes as well as the Federal Capital Territory property tax. He noted that 87, 000 jobs would be created.

“In addition to that, we will have 137,000 residents. A bulk of the workers will be Nigerians, and in our estimate for every resident, two or three jobs will be created, which is close to about 300,000 to 400, 000 jobs.

“There will be two stages of job creation, which include the construction phase and the services stage. The first phase which is the five-star hotel and residence will be completed within four years,” he said.

Shergill noted that the centenary city is not for the rich alone as it is an all-

inclusive project. He added that the first phase is a bit expensive but the housing phase is all-encompassing.

He noted further that arrangements were in top gear to power the site, adding that compensation had been paid to all the inhabitants of the place.

Anyim, who represented government’s interest in the project, had said last year that it would be modelled after cities such as Dubai, Monaco and Singapore, to serve as a political and economic tool for securing foreign investment. The idea is to get a better city than the FCT, where people will not need to provide basic amenities by themselves.

Giving the assurance to the investors about good returns on their investments during one of the stakeholders’ meetings, the former SGF said, “This meeting marks the beginning of the government’s withdrawal from the centenary project, and making the stage clear for decisions to be taken solely by the private sector investors themselves.

“We expect that the project will conform to international standards because we envisage that the city would be quoted on the Nigerian Stock Exchange as well as other international markets before the end of 2013.”

Some of the striking features of the centenary city project are a green city with a natural buffer enveloping the entire city, and encircling the central neighborhood.

This would protect and nurture the whole world-class public facilities, provide for zero waste management, an urban grid super-block system that is modular and organic and yielding a resulting grid of arteries, streets and pathways with an efficient traffic system where pedestrians, bicycles, motorcars, trams and monorail can co-exist in a friendly human way.

ACC will also have an independent power source with a gas-fired 500MW power plant connected directly to a gas terminal. With Buhari’s presidential seal stamped on the project as well as positive vibes that it will have multiplier effects on economy, Abuja Centenary City is good to go!

49

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Business News

SEC investigates Stanbic over fees disclosure

I

Paul Ogbuokiri ndications have emerged that the Securitas and Exchange Commission is investigating Stanbic IBTC over alleged wrongful disclosure of franchise fees owed to its parent, South Africa’s Standard Bank, the regulator said on Friday.

Stanbic had said on Thursday said SEC had suspended its N20.4 billion ($103 million) rights issue pending the outcome of inquiries, but without saying to what these inquiries related.

The franchise fees had been payable by Stanbic to its 53 per cent shareholder Standard Bank for matters such as the use of the latter’s brand names. But Stanbic had alleged that it had been prevented from paying the fees from 2011.

Jim Obaze, head of the Financial Reporting Council (FRC), said on Friday the National Office for Technology Acquisition and Promotion (NOTAP), in charge of registering agreements between local firms and foreign partners, had refused to give Stanbic a permit for a franchise arrangement since 2011.

Without NOTAP’s approval, Stanbic could not remit the fee, prompting Stanbic to accrue the sum on its account. But Obaze said this was under a sub-heading which was not disclosed, while the fees were still being charged on profit before tax, meaning Stanbic could be liable to pay additional corporate taxes.

Obaze said the exact amount of potentially wrongly booked fees was being investigated but they were more than the bank’s planned rights issue. He said the FRC may sanction Stanbic and compel the bank to re-issue its 2014 accounts.

Stanbic said in a statement it was “a fully compliant and responsible organisation which operates in accordance with international best practices ... Stanbic IBTC has not and will never make any international remittance without due approvals from NOTAP”.

Stanbic IBTC shares, which have fallen 12.4 percent so far this year, shed 4.9 percent on Friday to 22.48 naira.

Nigeria’s central bank has been tightening access to dollars by businesses and foreign investors to conserve its reserves, after a plunge in global crude prices forced it to

devalue the naira last November and peg the exchange rate in February.

The central bank has also introduced stricter capital requirements, which would come into effect next year, aimed at helping lenders shore up their balance sheets in the wake of lower oil prices.

The measure prompted Stanbic and other lenders to seek additional capital.

“We want to ensure that they are not misleading investors. If the money they are warehousing is brought back into the company they may not need to raise capital,” Obaze told Reuters.

Airtel Rising Stars 5 Football Clinic Kicks off in Lagos

F

ollowing the successful conclusion of the fifth edition of Airtel Rising Stars (ARS) U-17 tournament, the yearly football clinic organized for the most outstanding male and female players from the tournament, has commenced at the Teslim Balogun Stadium in Lagos.

The five-day Airtel football clinic, which will climax in Lagos Sunday, September 13, 2015, is facilitated by two experienced international coaches from PSV Holland, Lekatompessy Jerino and Rob Ernst, assisted by Coach Ifeoluwa Idowu of Youth Sports Foundation of Nigeria (YSFON), and Yisa Sofoluwe, ex Nigerian International. The participants, comprising 10 male and 10 female players, include Nnandozie Chiamaka, Favour Emmanuel, Chinwe Akabike, Seun Anani, Angela Mosindi, Ekun Folashade, Oyelade Oyebola, Uduakobong Rita, Juliet Bassey and Taibat Odueke Others are Simon Precious, Etiti Solomon, Eshu Columba, Jayeoba Olaoluwakitan, Isa Saheed, Olubode Hassan, Oyekola Michael, Jacob Ballah, Evo Christopher and Aliyu Yahu Adam.

Speaking on the Airtel football clinic, Managing Director and Chief Executive, Airtel Nigeria, Mr. Segun Ogunsanya noted that the football clinic serves as a platform to further develop the confidence and skills of the outstanding players discovered at the Airtel Rising Stars tournament with assistance of UEFA-certified coaches.

He said: “The football clinic is an additional support that the Airtel Rising Stars platform offers exceptional talent who are discovered at the finals.

Through the clinic, these young boys are nurtured and exposed to international football techniques and standard, thereby creating a window of opportunities to help them realize their dreams.”

The two coaches, Jerino and Rob, both UEFA trained coaches, will mentor and engage the young players in intensive training during the clinic as part of efforts to help the players hone their football skills and also prepare them for professional football career. The youngsters will also be exposed to developmental football techniques, which border on positional play, how to play shots on targets as well as health and fitness sessions.

L-R: Etisalat Experience Centre Manager, Sokoto, Mohammed Tanko; Specialist Dealer Sales Etisalat Nigeria, Yusuf D. Yusuf; , Dean of Students, UDU, Sokoto, Prof. Adamu Aliyu Alueru; Osinachi, Cliqfest Car Winner, Opara Chijoke and Manager Youth Segment, Etisalat Nigeria, Idiareno Atimomo, at the presentation of the Hyundai i10 car to the winner at Usman Danfodio University (UDU), Sokoto State recently

How Nigeria will respond to JPMorgan Fitch withdraws River State’s delisting –CBN rating

CO N T I N U E D F R O M PAG E 4 7

Nigerians,” the statement stated.

Nigeria became the second African country after South Africa to be listed on the JP Morgan emerging government bond index in October 2012 after the central bank removed the restriction for foreign investors to hold government bonds for a minimum of one year before they could exit. The index added Nigeria’s 2014, 2019, 2022 and 2024 bonds, giving Africa’s biggest economy a weight of 1.8 per cent on the index.

A financial analyst, Mr. Fajunmi Joseph Akanbi said JP Morgan’s decision to eject Nigeria came earlier than expected, saying that most international investors had already exited Nigeria’s debt last year. Nigeria’s foreign reserves stood at $31.01 billion as at September 7, down 21.6 per cent from a year ago, when it was $39.6 billion, he said.

He noted that Nigeria’s inclusion in the GBI-EM index was generally seen as a big step forward in its integration with global financial markets, opening the market to new investment and raising its profile worldwide. Quoting JP Morgan, he said, “With Nigeria’s removal, countries like Malaysia, Indonesia and Thailand have increased their weight by more 25 basis points as of August 31.

Foreign holdings of Nigerian government bonds stood at around $2.75 billion, the head of Africa strategy at Standard Chartered Bank Samir Gadio said. They had been

around $8 billion last September. He said the market was underweight Nigeria relative to the index before the announcement.

Bloomberg quoted an economist at Exotic Partner LLP in London, Alan Cameron, as saying that even if the direct financial implications from the JPMorgan move are not huge, “the symbolic value of this announcement is high.”

On bond yields, when Nigeria borrows money by selling bonds they pay investors based on the on prevailing bond yields. For example, a unit of a bond priced at N1000 may have been originally sold at an interest rate of 10 per cent that is N100 per N1000.

With Nigerian thrown out of the index, he feared that holders of that bond could dump it and sell for lower than N1000 per paper just to exit. If the average price drops to N800 due to high volume of sellers then that interest rate of 10 per cent is now 12.5 per cent that is N100 dividend by N800, he said.

“This means the next time the Nigerian Government goes out to borrow it will no longer attract a 10 per cent yield but will now borrow from investors at a yield of 12.5 per cent or even more. This will cost the government more money in servicing interest,” he said.

Sunday Telegraph learnt that by taking Nigeria out of the index, there will be little or no demand for the country’s bonds from foreign investors. Already, since JPM threatened to yank Nigerian off back in January, foreign holding of Nigeria’s bonds has dropped.

F

itch Ratings has withdrawn Rivers State’s Long-term foreign and local currency Issuer Default Ratings (IDRs) of ‘BB-’, with Negative and Stable Outlooks respectively, and its National Long-term rating of ‘AA-(nga)’, with Stable Outlook.

Fitch has decided to discontinue the rating of Rivers State, due to lack of information. All ratings have subsequently been withdrawn. As a result Fitch will no longer provide ratings or analytical coverage on the issuer Fitch Ratings had in March 2014 affirmed Rivers State’s long-term foreign and local currency Issuer Default Ratings (IDR) at ‘BB-’ and National Long-term rating at ‘AA-(nga)’ saying the outlooks were stable.

The affirmation reflected Fitch’s expectations of the state’s continuing stable performance sustained by growing non-oil revenue and moderate operating expenditure evolution, as well as improving transparency. The ratings also incorporate the expectations of rising financial debt in light of significant investment needs amid weak socio-economic indicators by international standards.

But with the downturn in the Nigerian e4conomy since mid last year, followed by the Apriel general elections in Nigeria, a lot of water have passed under the bridge in the State’s economy, Sunday Telegraph learnt.

SUNDAY

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Markets&Malls SUNDAY SEPTEMBER 13, 2015

Nobody died in Balogun fire - Market leader

A

Stanley Ihedigbo s traders doing their business in the torched six-storey shopping plaza at Balogun market, Lagos penultimate Thursday count their losses, an eyewitness and Chairman of the Association of Shoe Dealers and Manufacturers, Mr. Ben Aba, has said nobody died in the incident.

Reports had said that six persons died while many others sustained varying degrees of injury in the incident.

Aba told Sunday Telegraph in an interview on Friday that only a section of the market was razed.

“Around 10a.m in the morning, I was told that the plaza was on fire. As I was going upstairs, people were running up and down. Some people were carrying fire extinguishers to put out the fire.

“I joined them and we were not able to find out what caused the fire. I thank God that we were able to put out the fire,” he said.

He dismissed media reports about the fire.

“Even the media reported that some people were jumping from the plaza. I can tell you that nobody jumped from the plaza.

There was no need for anybody to jump down from the building as reported. But the fire incident ended at the second floor of the plaza and only two shops were affected,” he said.

He said the presence of many street traders in the area made access to the plaza and early intervention difficult.

“When there was this fire outbreak in Balogun market, like the ones that gutted five buildings in January this year, the state fire service could not get to the scene, as result of congestion on the streets,” he recalled.

Aba called on the state government to regulate the letting of road setbacks to

traders, saying this was to the detriment of shop owners.

He commended the Iyaloja-General Lagos State, Mrs. Folashade Tinubu Ojo, for visiting the traders immediately the incident occurred.

He said the renovation of the affected section had commenced. He explained that they decided to carry out the repairs themselves since it was not a major incident.

Capri-Sonne excites children with minions promo Stanley Ihedigbo

I

n fulfillment of the global partnership between Capri-Sonne and Universal Studios, Chi Nigeria, maker of CapriSonne natural fruit drink in Nigeria, has unveiled a promo package to coincide with the global release of the movie ‘The Minions.’

Children across Nigeria are in for an exciting treat as they now have an opportunity to win free Minions gifts inside every carton of their favourite Capri-Sonne within the promo period. Gift items include beach balls, magnets, goggles, magnetic frames, key chains, activity sets and various Minion merchandise and toys.

The Capri-Sonne Minions Promo was been amplified nationwide with an effective media campaign running on major regional and national television channels and radio stations in the country. Simultaneously, the campaign was been driven through advertisements on print, billboards and digital platforms like Twitter and Facebook where young fans can win loads of free gifts by participating in fun Minions games. Consumer engagement platforms such as trade activations in open markets and consumer activations like taste trials in schools and shopping malls have commenced in various cities to connect with the consumers.

Managing Director, Chi Nigeria, Mr. Deepanjan Roy, said, “We are confident that the Capri-Sonne Minions Promo will resonate with children across Nigeria and increase product consumption and brand affinity.

Minions are hugely popular among children the world over and we have no doubt that the Capri-Sonne Minions Promo will create excitement, buzz, adventure and fun which Capri-Sonne has been known for over the years.” The Minions was a 2015 3D computer-animated comedy film and a presequel/ spin off to the Despicable Me franchise. Minions are small, yellow impulsive creatures with odd innocence that endears them to viewers and makes them relatable. They have hundreds of thousands of fans around the world and have become a huge commercial success worldwide.

Capri-Sonne is the number one kids’ drink worldwide and contains 100 per cent natural ingredients.

Changing face of retail market in Nigeria

Nigeria is Jumia’s biggest market - Martin It lies within you.

Chief Executive Officer and Managing Director, Jumia Nigeria Limited, Nicholas Martin, is the man behind the online retail outfit redefining shopping in Nigeria. He spoke with DEBORAH MAKOJI on how Jumia is contributing to the Nigerian economy

Any plan to help Nigerians get their passion across to the world?

We are allowing dozens of new fashion designers every year to become an automatic market. It’s just about small markets, shops and small capital because Nigerians have access to the internet. Jumia is giving them a platform to make an income. They can learn how to unfold their talents and design new clothes.

What is the secret of your success?

We are trying to be humble, hungry and hardworking, if you are humble and hardworking, that is where success lies. We also look around for opportunities. Nigeria is a country where so many opportunities lie. In Nigeria, a lot of people are hungry and hardworking.

To be successful in life, there is a need for you to chase something with focus.

Don’t be too full of yourself and endeavour to embrace failure when it comes. I don’t know if we are successful because I don’t know what success is. Jumia is one of the popular online markets; it is more of a social responsibility and a way of trying to give back as much as we can to the numerous generations yet to come.

What are the potential and contributions of online markets to the Nigerian economy?

It is a very good question; I think it is moving so fast. I’m confident that in 10 to 20 years to come, it is going to be bigger than oil. I think this is the size of

What do you think Nigerian youths should engage in to have an edge over others?

Martin

the evolution and transformation of the Nigerian economy. The economic boom will come with millions of Nigerians developing their businesses within and outside the shores of Nigeria. Believe me, Nigeria is a land filled with lots of opportunities.

What is your advice to Nigerians?

My first advice is for them to know how to be passionate; it can be about fashion, music, food or anything. What Jumia is trying to become is to unleash the digital world and for Nigerians to get their passion across to the world, I feel it’s time for people to stop thinking the solution lies solely on government.

The biggest market for Jumia is Nigeria. We are partnering Tech+ and MTN to create value for everyone. Obviously, Nigeria is on the upfront. I think Nigeria is the best place where the next mobile evolution is going to come. Already now, we have thousands of people that download the Jumia application and are making purchases.

Why did you choose to partner Tech+ and MTN?

It is because they are good fora for those that have a passion for technology, with 60 -70 per cent of youths having mobile apps on their phones.

How does Jumia intend to enhance the standard of living for Nigerian youths through job creation?

Thousands of jobs have been created for Nigerian youths by Jumia.

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Business News

From hall of fame to fall of shame (2) Success Nuggets Victor Okwudiri 08037674300 (SMS only) 2. Limelight does not change us.

It only reveals our weaknesses and strength.

From Honourable Mike’s younger days, the major character challenge he had was the money problem.

Though, the excellence of his personality hid that part of him, he did not deal with it as he ascended the ladder of political prominence.

It is a pity some people are so overwhelmed with the ambition for stardom that they forget to deal with the little issues about their lives today. The truth, however, is this: If you cannot deal with issues at a smaller scale, you may be unable to deal with them at a larger scale. One who cannot resist the temptation of N10, 000 cannot resist the temptation of N1, 000, 000. It is, therefore, important we deal with our weaknesses at a micro level, when eyes are not so much on us.

3. Everyday and every action is a preparation for the future.

This point is a build up on Point 2. If Honourable Mike started dealing with the money problem from his younger days, he might have succeeded in curing the cancer before he got to the exalted position from where he fell. He probably hoped that, when he gets to such high position where all eyes will be

on him, he would naturally develop check mechanisms against the banana peel of money scandals. But, no! The cancer had eaten too deep into the skin of his morals. The more unattended to it was, the more it spread.

Another thing Honourable Mike did not know was that, though we see the future as a destination, the vehicle that takes us there are our actions. As such, if we take the wrong actions, we could get stuck in the journey of destiny.

Honourable Mike’s dream was to be the Governor of his state. That was his ‘future’. However, his action of using his office (a public office) to promote bribery deprived him that future. If only he knew that every action is a preparation for the future ...

4. Character is more important than reputation.

Your reputation is what people think about you. Your character is who you are. The point is this: What people think about you may not be who you really are.

Honourable Mike distinguished himself in the house and was seen as a symbol of forthrightness because of his vocal stance against corruption. In fact, for many public office holders, especially those whose offices were within the purview of the committee chaired by Honourable Mike, the fear of Honourable Mike was the beginning of wisdom. However, the real Honourable Mike had a problem with money.

He was yet to overcome the money test. As such, he lost his testimony of incorruptibility. What a pity!

Character is the core. The best reputation can be is the CROWN. In any case, I dare say that character can also crown you.

Limelight does not change us. It only reveals our weaknesses and strength Unfortunately, however, the tendency is for humans to invest more in reputation than in character. This is an ERROR, which can become a TERROR to anyone’s prospects of a colourful destiny.

Friend, character is credit. Character is a collateral. Character is a highly valuable commodity in the stock exchange of social relations. As such, character bankruptcy is worse than ‘financial bankruptcy’. Little wonder Billy Graham said, “When wealth is lost, nothing is lost; when health is lost, something is lost; when character is lost, all is lost.”

Friend, make character a priority over reputation.

5. Charisma can take you up, but character is what will keep you up.

Honourable Mike was a man of charismatic power and political sagacity, and, by virtue of those qualities, he rose meteorically up the rungs of the ladder of politics. However, charisma could not sustain him when his character was brought to limelight. Friend, there are wealthy men looking for someone they can trust with their going concerns.

Can you be that one person?

It doesn’t matter how intelligent or good looking you are. When the chips are down, only people of proven character will stand the test of time. I pray you will.

Please follow me on Twitter @VictorOkwudiri

What is life? (2) The Big Picture Julian Atufunwa 08032810713 (SMS only)

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ife is neutral; it is neither good nor bad. Joseph Campbell once said: “Life has no meaning. Each of us has meaning and we bring it to life. It is a waste to be asking the question when you are the answer.” if an Indian newly born baby is born and raised in Nigeria, there is every tendency that he or she will speak, eat and behave entirely like a Nigerian. Oliver Wondell Holmes said: “Man’s mind stretched to a new idea, never goes back to its original dimensions.” it is a fact that we bring to life all the different references, experiences, beliefs and training we grew up with. We all have our own definitions of life. Rick Warran says: “Your perspective about life will influence how you invest your time, spend your money, use your talent and value your relationships. It is true that we all have different perspectives of life yet there are truths about life that are indisputable.”

(1) Life is a journey - This is a general fact of life. Life is all about movement, from point A to point B. Whether we believe it or not, it is inevitable because even the earth itself is moving (rotating). So, no human is

expected to be static. The point is, you will be able to succeed in life if you can adapt to changes and also if you can prepare yourself adequately for the next level in a job, business, status e.t.c or remain outdated. In life, you must keep improving on what you know and on the next trend.

(2) Life is all about love - Vincent van Gogh said: “Whoever loves much performs much and can accomplish much and what is done in love is done well. When we talk of love sometimes, I wonder what comes to our minds, but whatever it is you are thinking, love in itself can never be wrong.” Today, we laud people like Africa’s wealthiest man, Alhaji Aliko Dangote. Going by van Gogh’s definition, he (Dangote) loves much, therefore performs much and is accomplishing much. The wealthy are those whom, when others are sleeping, are thinking of what next to produce for the masses. Love is the primary reason they are in business.

As such, they can’t afford to produce fake products. The wealthy are those who find a way to make life more enjoyable and also provide products and services that are affordable to the general public. Love should move governments to build roads so that farmers can move their perishable products to the urban centres in good time. Love is all about building hospitality and equipping the educational systems so that students can compete with their counterparts in developed countries of the world. It is mind-boggling that our certificates are not given recognition in other countries. Should I say that

“Your perspective about life will influence how you invest your time, spend your money, use your talent and value your relationships we have neglected our primary goals of existence? Come to think of it, it would be almost impossible for anyone to kill the one he/she loves. People working under you are not left out.

Do we recognise values in people and reflect them in our words and actions?

Human beings are the most valuable assets we can ever have as employers.

Do we see people the way they ought to be or the way they are currently?

Love and vision go together. You can’t talk of love without people, neither can we talk of vision without people in mind. When we don’t love people genuinely, the size of our dream will be limited. We can’t love and fail. We treat people based on the value we place on them. We have always repeated this in this column: Whatever God does not deserve should not be given to human beings. Life without love is worthless.

Give attention to people, spend time with the people you love. The best gift you can give to people you love is your time. Giving your time is equal to giving part of your life to someone. This is because your time is your life. As we go about our work and business as parents, never miss your priority - your children need your presence. They will not be children forever. One day, you will wake up and find that they are gone. Give them attention now.

Life without love is vain.

Group decries plan to privatise water Imaobong Ette

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irector, International Water Campaign and Corporate Accountability International, Shayda Edwards Naficy, has kicked against the condemned alleged proposal by the Lagos State Government to privatise water supply in the state.

Speaking in an interview with Sunday Telegraph in Lagos, Naficy said it is the duty of the government to provide potable water for the people.

She said the failure of the exercise in some countries like Belgium and Ghanandia among others was the major reason why Lagos cannot privatise water. She stated that the World Bank and other international organisations had been aggressively promoting privatisation as a false panacea to the lack of water in Africa.

“Corporate takeover of water sources in Lagos and cities across Africa is a new form of colonialism. If the World Bank is able to use Lagos as a platform to expand on its plans, it would spread across Africa, and then, water will be an expensive commodity which the masses cannot get at will,” she said.

Traditionally, according to her, it’s a taboo to sell water in most communities, and the failure of good governance and profit-oriented management had caused water systems in many Nigerian cities to decline remarkably over the last 15 years.

Etisalat CliqFest: Student wins Hyundai i10 car

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400 level student in the Department of Modern European Languages, Uthman Danfodio University, Sokoto, Chijoke Osinachi, has emerged the winner of a Hyundai i10 car at the recently concluded Etisalat CliqFest nationwide campus tour.

Osinachi was selected from a raffle draw supervised by renowned motivational speaker, Niyi Adesanya; the university’s Dean of Students’ Affairs, Prof A.A. Aliero; and winner, Nigerian Idol 2015, K-Peace whose real name is Olakunle Ogunrombi.

An elated Osinachi, who was lost in the moment after receiving the keys to the car from the university’s dean of students’ affairs could not hide his feelings as he eulogised the telecoms operator for its efforts in giving meaning to the lives of the members of society.

“It is hard to describe this feeling that just in a moment things have actually turned around for me. I could not have imagined this when I woke up this morning. I am very grateful to Etisalat for this big lift,” he said.

Also speaking at the presentation ceremony, Etisalat Nigeria’s Manager, Youth Segment, Idiareno Atimomo, assured the school of the company’s continuous commitment to helping Nigerians through its bouquet of customercentric products, offerings and programmes.

Beside the grand prize winner, eight other students who also went home with different prizes include Fatima Aliyu and Baba Muhammad, both of whom won laptops; Maryam T. Umar and Agboola Ridwan, both of whom won handsets and jerseys each; and the quartet of Habibu Tanko, Suleiman Usman, Ibrahim Tahir and Fatima Mustafa who clinched handsets and flash drives.

Speaking earlier while receiving the Etisalat CliqFest team, Aliero commended Etisalat for the initiative and the choice of the school as host of the event. He also pledged the support and continued cooperation of the school with the telco on projects that would impact the students and the extended community.

Adesanya also dished out nuggets on succeeding both in school and in the labour market, while Nigerian Idol Season 4 and 5 winners, Evelle Zibili and K-Peace, entertained the students.

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he equities market started the week riding on the positive sentiments from the previous week, with UBA still enjoying favourable investor’ sentiments from the announced corporate action (NGN0.20/ share), as the dividend yield remained attractive at 4.76% at the close of trading on Monday.

Currently the dividend yield is 5.19%, based on the current market price.

These bargain hunting activities prevailed during the first two trading days of the week, pushing all sector’s week-to-date performances northwards, save for the Conglomerate and Services sectors. However, following the announcement by the managers of JP Morgan Global Bond Index for Emerging Markets (GBI-EM), of their intention to phase out Nigeria’s bonds from the Index, stating ‘a lack of liquidity and transparency in the country’s FX market’, sentiments in the market turned bearish. Consequently, the equities bourse witnessed sell-offs across the market, with the banking sector recording the largest decline (NSEBNK10: -3.94%). Also, the volume and value of transactions on the day after the announcement hiked by 102.72% and 114.44% accordingly, further denoting the magnitude of activites spurred by the news.

The market, however, managed to close the week positive, following a 0.97% gain on the last trading day of the week, which pushed returns to 0.60% week-on-week. Volume and value of transaction for the week declined by 42.27% and 35.89% accordingly.

TRANSEXPR, GUINNESS, OKOMUOIL emerged the top advancers for the week, returning respective week-on-week (WoW) gains of 23.36%, 18.90%, and 14.19%. The decliners chart had CAVERTON, VONO and CONOIL, with respective WoW declines of 17.88%, 15.09% and 14.21%.

Given the recent news flows and headwinds prevalent in the Nigerian financial space currently, we do not anticipate a positive rally in the market in the short run as investors remain skeptical.

In this report, we review events in the economy, laying emphasis on the performance of different segments of the financial market, while presenting our expectation for the coming week.

Fixed Income …market remains resilient There was an increase in system liquidity this week, as an OMO repayment of NGN101.53bn hit the system, even as efforts to mop up with OMO sales yet again closed with ‘no sale’. Consequently, Money market rates declined by an average of 1.21% WtD, to close at an average rate of 7.25% for both the OBB and OVN rates.

Similarly, average rates in the NIBOR market pared by 0.77% WtD, as the CALL rate, 1M, 3M and 6M rates closed positions at 7.33%, 15.34%, 16.19% and 17.41% respectively.

Buy sentiments prevailed on the shorter termed Treasury Bills instruments, with average yield paring marginally by 0.36% WtD. Similarly, the longer termed instruments enjoyed the same sentiments, given the attractive offer yields which closed the week at an average of 15.28%.

The domestic currency riding on some rallies during the week, recorded a 0.56% WtD gain in value against the dollar, to close at a year-to-date return of -6.38%.

Despite news flow on the proposed phasing out by JP Morgan index, the Nigerian Bond Market remained resilient with average offer yield advancing only marginally (+0.03%), riding on pockets of buy sentiments on Wednesday. This could be credited to the attractive yields and the market liquidity level.

We expect more buy sentiments at the shorter end of the curve as investors remain cautious following the negative news flow, and a periodic burst of sell sentiments as portfolios that track the GBI-EM index exit their positions. This, we believe, will also negatively impact the domestic currency, as demand for the dollar increases against the Naira.

Agric. Sector …OKOMUOIL emerges sole gainer The agric sector closed the week on a positive note with, returning 5.89% Week-on-Week, to drive the YtD return of the sector to 16.70%.

OKOMUOIL emerged as the only gainer, with a price appreciation of 14.19% WoW to close at NGN27.12. On the flip side LIVESTOCK, PRESCO, ELLAHLAKES and FTNCOCOA all traded flat.

SUNDAY, SEPTEMBER 13, 2015 SUNDAY TELEGRAPH

Market Index advances by 0.60% WtD …as bargain hunting prevails with caution while also taking position in fundamentally justified stocks.

We opine that the dearth of news flow in the sector resulted in the lethargic trading activity.

However, we foresee the possibility of profit taking on the sole gainer in the coming week.

Banking sector: Resilient in the face of impending exclusion Banking sector stocks remained under pressure this week, with the MERI-BNK index declining by 0.87% to bring the YtD return to -11.22%. There were 5 gainers and 8 decliners, to peg the sector’s breadth at 0.63x.

The top gainers for the week included ZENITHABNK (7.12%), FIDELITYBK (5.71%), and UBA (1.05%), while the top decliners were led

by FBNH (-7.22%), UNITYBNK (7.09%), and ACCESS (5.49%). STERLNBNK and WEMABANK traded flat.

Stanbic IBTC’s proposed share issue has been put on hold after the Financial Reporting Council of Nigeria began an investigation into allegations of financial impropriety made in the bank’s financial statements.

When news flows regarding the imminent exclusion of Nigeria from the JP Morgan GBI-EM entered the market, there was an immediate reaction on the sector’s stocks as investors sized up the possible effects on the banking sector’s stocks, by week’s end many had recovered the lost value with initial fears somewhat allayed.

We remain of the opinion that many of the banking sector’s stocks still hold value, even as the anticipated market resurgence is further away on the horizon.

Consumer Goods: Profit taking ensues The Consumer good companies endured a streak of profit taking, however, the gains recorded by some sector heavyweights pushed performance for the week and month to 2.31% and 2.24% respectively, according to our MeriConsumer Goods.

GUINNESS, PZ, NB, DANGSUGAR, HONYFLOUR and 7UP all recorded price increases of 18.90%, 7.99%, 2.63%, 1.96%, 1.92% and 0.13% respectively. Conversely, VONO (-15.09%), CADBURY (-10.82%), UACN (-9.49%), NNFM (-4.92%), VITAFOAM (-4.17%) and INTBREW (-4.28%) recorded the highest price declines for the week.

GUINNESS, at the tail end of the previous week released its 2015FY scorecard, which showed an 8.51% YoY increase in revenue, while operating expenses also increased by 13.92%YoY, consequently leading to an operating profit decline of 2.89%. Profit-before-tax and Profit-after-tax declined by 7.59% and 18.58% YoY respectively, as financial charges advanced by 9.69% YoY to further erode earnings.

During the week, the company informed the Exchange of a proposed tender offer by Guinness Overseas Limited for 236,176,604 units of ordinary shares in the Nigerian company. This would potentially increase the company’s stake in GUINNESS Nigeria to 70% from 54.3%. The offer is expected to be executed at no more than NGN175/share, and will be open to all shareholders if it is eventually approved. GUINNESS advanced by 7.85% WoW on the back of this news.

We opine that the recent profit taking and bargain hunting activities within the sector might persist in the coming week, given that investors’ confidence in the sector is weak. We advise investors to time the market properly, while considering their investment horizon with their objective.

Healthcare Sector: The sector sustains the bullish run The sector sustained the previous week’s bullish trend, as the MERI-HLTH Index advanced by 0.32% WoW, thus pegging the YtD return at -12.21%. Sector breadth skewed in favour of advancers as four (4) stocks advanced, while no stock depreciated in price during the week.

EVANSMED consolidated on previously week’s price performance, advancing by 14.29% WoW. The counter was trailed by MAYBAKER, GLAXOSMITH and FIDSON, following price appreciations of 4.84%, 0.314% and 0.312% to settle prices at NGN1.30, NGN35.11 and NGN3.21 correspondingly. All other counters traded flat in the week.

While the positive sentiment witnessed on the sector stocks in the previous week spilled over into this week, we expect profit taking to ensue on the sector stocks in the coming week, following weeks of bargain hunting. Consequently, we advise short term investors to blend optimism

INDUSTRIAL GOODS: Sector mood swings positive Based on our Meri-Industrial sector index, the industrial goods sector closed 2.05% up at the end of the week, driven by positive performances from four sector stocks.

CUTIX emerged as top gainer for the week having appreciated by 9.68% WoW to close at NGN 1.70. Other gainers were BERGER, PAINTCOM and DANGCEM with respective gains of 4.97%, 4.39% and 2.44%.

ASHAKACEM, the worst laggard for the week, depreciated by 1.34% WoW to close at NGN 22.10, while CCNN and WAPCO depreciated by 1.19% and 0.77% respectively to make up the losers’ chart.

Considering there was no defining news during the week to set the tone for next week’s trend, we expect bargain hunting and profit taking activities by investors to determine the direction of the sector in the coming week.

Insurance Sector: NSEINS10 advances for the 2nd consecutive week The insurance sector consolidated on recent gains, appreciating for the second consecutive trading week, owing to price appreciations of 3 counters. The NSE-INS10 index advanced by 0.73% week-on-week to peg the year to date return at -10.32%.

MANSARD enjoyed the most significant rally in the sector during the week, as the counter appreciated by 2.49% WoW to close at NGN2.47.

The counter was trailed by CONTINSURE and NEM, after the respective stocks appreciated by 2.41% and 1.52% accordingly. On the contrary, AIICO waned by 3.57% WoW to emerge the sole laggard in the week.

Following two consecutive weeks of gains, we anticipate some level of profit taking on stocks that appreciated in the coming week. And so advise investors to trade cautiously.

Oil & Gas Sector … Sector performance drags further The NSEOILG5 index returned negative for the second consecutive week, declining by 4.22% Week-to-Date. Six (6) stocks pared in value during the week, while other stocks traded flat. No counter recorded a positive return.

Stocks on the laggards chart were CONOIL, MOBIL, FO, OANDO, TOTAL, and ETERNA, which pared by 14.21%, 5.00%, 5.00%, 4.76%, 4.57%, and 2.78% respectively, to settle their share prices at NGN25.78, NGN142.50, NGN223.25, NGN11.00, NGN143.62, and NGN1.75 in that order.

Recently, Conoil Plc. released its FY2014 financial statement, which showed Year-on-Year revenue and Profit-After-Tax declines of 19.55% and 72.82% accordingly. The company also proposed a dividend of NGN1.00, which implied a yield of 3.88% at the close of today’s trade, with closure date of 2nd October 2015.

We advise cautious trading on the sector stocks, while also imploring investors to focus on only fundamentally justified sector counters given the prevalent headwinds in the financial space.

Services sector …TRANSEXPR and IKEJAHOTEL rally for 2nd week MERISER INDEX started the week on a bearish note, falling by -0.91% on the first trading day of the week, after which the direction of the sector rerouted to end with a WoW change of +0.30%, to bring the sector’s Year-to-Date return to -0.61%. The sectoral breadth (1.33x) was in favor of the advancers, as 4 stocks advanced against 3 stocks that waned in value. All other stocks traded flat.

TRANSEXPR was the week’s strongest outperformer, advancing by 23.36% WoW to close at NGN 1.32. The counter was closely followed

by IKEJAHOTEL, which rose by 10.50% WoW. Other gainers were ABCTRANS (7.55%) and REDSTAREX (6.05%). ACADEMY (-4.29%), LEARNAFRCA (-7.37%), and most notably CAVERTON (-17.88%), where this week’s sector underperformers.

In line with the previous week’s recommendation, current market conditions present a relatively good time for long term investors to trade on counters which are below their fundamentally justified market value.

SUNDAY

Sport 59 53

SUNDAY, SEPTEMBER 13, 2015

EPL

Iheanacho basks in Palace winner p.54

Football

Ighalo’s goal gives Watford deserved win

Other big shocks in the women’s game Australian Open, 1984: Martina Navratilova loses to 19-year-old Helena Sukova in the semis, two matches from the calendar Slam.

Wimbledon 1994: Three-time defending champion Steffi Graf loses to American Lori McNeil in round one.

Wimbledon 1999: Top seed Martina Hingis loses to 16-year-old Australian Jelena Dokic in the first round.

French Open 2012: Serena Williams loses to Virginie Razzano, her only firstround loss at a Grand Slam.

p.54

Serena

Tennis

US Open: Federer battles Djokovic for Grand Slam title p.54

Vinci

Golf

Nigeria Cup 2015 tees-off Sept. 26 p.54

Serena US Open defeat a ‘monumental shock’

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Deputy Sports Editor Dapo Sotuminu daposotu@yahoo.com

© Daily Telegraph Publishing Company Limited

erena Williams fell victim to one of the biggest shocks in tennis history at the US Open, said two-time champion Tracy Austin.

Williams, 33, was two wins from completing the calendar Grand Slam but lost 2-6 6-4 6-4 to unseeded Italian Roberta Vinci in the semi-finals.

“This is monumental. It’s a shocker,” Austin said.

“This is one of the biggest upsets in the history of tennis, because of what was on the line.”

Williams went into Friday’s semi-final on a 33-match winning streak in Grand Slams stretching back to Wimbledon 2014.

She had hoped to match Steffi Graf’s 1988 sweep off all four majors in the same year, and was up against a player she had beaten four times without dropping a set.

Vinci, 32, is ranked 43 in the world and was playing in her first Grand Slam semi-final.

“Roberta Vinci had a losing record coming into the US Open and somehow got hot,” added Austin. Things went her way, the draw opened up, Genie Bouchard hit her head and couldn’t play that match in round four. It’s just the way things happen sometimes.

“That’s why they put the net up every day.

You’ve got to go out and handle the nerves. I always said Serena’s biggest opponent coming into this year’s US Open was going to be her own nerves.”

Williams has won the US Open six times in her career, the first coming in 1999 Williams was fulsome in her praise for Vinci,

saying she “played literally out of her mind”, but the American was not in the mood to discuss her own feelings.

“I don’t want to talk about how disappointing it is for me,” she said. “If you have any other questions, I’m open for that.”

Tickets for the women’s final had sold out before the men’s for the first time ever as anticipation mounted in New York.

Only Maureen Connolly (1953), Margaret Court (1970) and Steffi Graf (1988) have achieved calendar Slams in the women’s game.

Williams insisted throughout the tournament that she was relaxed about the challenge, and after her defeat said: “I told you guys I don’t feel pressure. I never felt that pressure to win here. I said that from the beginning.”

Her four-year unbeaten run at Flushing Meadows is over but there was a glimmer of positivity after what has been an incredible run at the majors.

“I did win three Grand Slams this year,” said Williams. “I won four in a row. It’s pretty good.”

Asked how nervous she felt Williams had become in the third set, Vinci was unequivocal: “A lot.”

The Italian, who won over the crowd with an extravagant celebration during the final set, had not taken more than four games in a set off Williams in four previous matches.

“This is the best match that I played in my life,” she said. “At the end when I made a break, 4-3, and served, I was a little bit scared.

“But in my mind, I say, ‘Don’t think about

this, because maybe you have more pressure.

Stay calm, relax, and breathe during every single point.

“Don’t think that you have Serena on the other side of the court.”

She will now meet her good friend Pennetta in the final, 16 years after they won the French Open junior doubles title together.

“It’s an incredible moment, but one Italian will win for sure,” said Vinci.

French coach Patrick Mouratoglou was more forthcoming than Williams in discussing her defeat.

“Today was not a good day, clearly. I saw it the first second I saw her this morning, but still she could have made it. How many times did it happen and she found a way through?”

Serena statistics: It was her first US Open loss since the 2011 final against Sam Stosur.

Her last defeat at a Grand Slam was by Alize Cornet at Wimbledon 2014.

It was only her fourth defeat in 26 Grand Slam semi-finals.

She still shares the Open era record of six US Open titles with Chris Evert.

It was only the American’s third defeat of what has been a thoroughly dominant season.

“Every loss is very difficult, so it’s going to be the same,” said Mouratoglou. “When she lost in Toronto [last month] she told me she’s tired of losing - she’d lost two matches this year.”

He added: “In a way it’s good. There is still this very high goal to make. In every bad news there is a good one.”

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Sport

Pellegrini tips Iheanacho for big things

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anchester City boss, Manuel Pellegrini, spoke after his side made it five wins in five games in the Premier League.

Manuel Pellegrini tipped Kelechi Iheanacho for a bright future after the teenage striker came off the bench to score the winner in Manchester City’s 1-0 win over Crystal Palace.

The Chilean sent the Academy graduate on for Wilfried Bony with 18 minutes to play and the Nigerian scored his first City goal in added time to spark scenes of jubilation in the away end.

“I always trusted Kelechi because strikers are strikers and he knows how to score,” said the City boss.

“Kelechi is a very young player, he just turned 18, but I believe in him - it’s not easy for him to play because he has Kun (Sergio Aguero) and Bony in front of him and they are very good players, but I think the way he continues improving working with the squad the whole week he will continue demonstrating why he’s an important player for this team.”

Pellegrini watched Palace dominate his side in the opening 45 minutes at Selhurst Park with City’s players looking jaded after the international break.

But they came out in the second half with renewed vigour and were rewarded for their endeavour with Iheanacho’s late winner.

US Open: Federer battles Djokovic for Grand Slam title

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oger Federer hopes to ride a wave of emotion as he targets a sixth US Open title and 18th major today in a “straight shootout” against world No1 Novak Djokovic.

Federer, 34, is bidding to become the oldest champion in New York since 35-year-old Australian Ken Rosewall in 1970.

Playing in his 27th Grand Slam final and seventh at the US Open, Federer, the champion from 20042008 and runner-up in 2009, is a man reborn.

After losing his second Wimbledon final in succession to Djokovic in July, the Swiss veteran beat the Serb on his way to a seventh Cincinnati Masters crown.

He has also not dropped a set since his All England Club defeat, a stretch of 28 sets.

At the US Open, he has held serve in 80 of 82 games and has stunned opponents with his new ‘SABR’ (‘Sneak Attack By Roger’) chip-and-charge tactic.

His semi-final demolition of French Open champion and compatriot Stan Wawrinka was as brutal as Djokovic’s dismantling of defending champion Marin Cilic.

The top seed allowed the Croatian just three games in the most lopsided semi-final in tournament history.

Federer also has the crowd on his side as he pursues his first Grand Slam title since Wimbledon in 2012.

SUNDAY SEPTEMBER 13, 2015, SUNDAY TELEGRAPH

Iheanacho basks in Palace winner

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ppearing as a substitute on his second senior appearance, Nigerian youngster, Kelechi Iheanacho, preserved Manchester City’s winning run at Crystal Palace.

Manchester City youngster Kelechi Iheanacho was delighted to announce himself as a Premier League match-winner after coming off the bench to sink Crystal Palace.

The 18-year-old Nigerian striker, who made his senior bow in a similar cameo when Manuel Pellegrini’s team beat Watford before the international break, was an 89th-minute replacement for Wilfried Bony at Selhurst Park.

City’s leading forward Sergio Aguero departed during the first half with a knee injury and the visitors were also without stellar attacking talents David Silva and Raheem Sterling due to fitness complaints, leaving Iheanacho to take centre stage and steal a 1-0 victory.

He reacted quickest in a crowded penalty area after Palace goalkeeper Alex McCarthy kept out Samir Nasri’s shot, preserving City’s 100 per cent record and opening up a fivepoint lead at the top of the table after five matches.

“I’m happy, it means very much to me to score a great goal,” Iheanacho said after in a post-match interview. I was introduced with just two minutes to score a great goal against Palace so I’m very, very grateful and thanks to the manager for introducing me. I’m happy.”

Iheanacho was the player of the tournament

Manchester City’s Kelechi Iheanacho celebrates after scoring a goal during the English Premier League soccer match between Crystal Palace and Manchester City at Selhurst Park, London, Saturday, Sept. 12, 2015.

when Nigeria won the 2013 nder-17 World Cup and impressive pre-season performances in 2014 and this time around left many City supporters eagerly awaiting his first-team introduction.

Those same fans celebrated with gusto when

the youngster broke the deadlock in London and Iheanacho enjoyed a jubilant moment in front of the travelling support.

He added: “The fans were crazy when I scored the goal - all of them. We are happy, it was a great game.”

Ighalo’s goal gives Watford deserved win

A

n Odion Ighalo goal gave Watford a well-deserved win against Swansea at Vicarage Road in the Premiership on Saturday despite being down to 10 men.

Watford did not look like a team yet to win a Premier League game this season against Swansea and created numerous chances throughout the match, even after going down to 10 men.

Odion Ighalo was a constant goal threat and was rewarded for his endeavour in the 59th minute

when he hit a powerful volley past Fabianski.

The Super Eagles star striker went close on the stroke of half time after going on a mazy run and cutting inside, beating two men in the process, but his shot was well saved by Fabianski.

Swansea did not heed the warning the Nigerian striker gave them in the first half and gave the hosts the lead in the 59th minute with a well-hit volley from a Troy Deeney knockdown.

Valon Behrami received his

marching orders in the 64th minute for a horrendous tackle on Andre Ayew, but the hosts were able to hang on to their lead to claim their first win of the new Premier League season.

Hornets defender Sebastian Prodl had the first shot of the game in the 10th minute, but his effort flew well over.

Ayew found Bafetimbi Gomis with an accurate pass in the 21st minute and the Ghanaian midfielder got away from his defender but was denied by a diving Gomes.

Lagos, Ogun students relish Camp GTbank experience Emmanuel Tobi

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elected students from the GTBank/Lagos State Principal Cup and GTB/Ogun State Principal Cup have described their experience at the 2015 edition of Camp GTBank, an annual football development programme sponsored by Guaranty Trust Bank plc, as a worthy life time experience.

Camp GTBank is a residential camp designed to train and de-

velop outstanding footballing talents discovered from GTBank sponsored youth football leagues; Principals’ and Masters Cups.

The camp which was started on August 31 and ended September 7, 2015 at the International Institute of Tropical Agriculture (IITA), Ibadan, has 40 participants selected from the GTBank-Lagos State Principals Cup, GTBank-Ogun State Principals Cup and GTBank Masters Cup competitions.

Ebonyi State Governor, Eng. David Umahi(third left), receiving a jersey from the state’s Sports Commissioner, Charles Akpuenike for the Akubaraoha Sports Festival at the Government House in Abakaliki. With them are the Deputy Governor, Dr. Kelechi Igwe(second left) and the Head of Service, Chamberlain Nwele.

According to Rosario Alexander Mario, a student of St Finbarrs’s College Akoka-Yaba, Lagos, “The Camp GTBank environment was so condusive and full of activities. We had opportunity to interact with great ex-internationals like Victor Ikpeba, Yisa Shofoluwe and Ann Chiejine.”

The 17-year old striker added that, “We have been taught how to be determined, focused and how to tolerate other people. The camp has inspired me in my quest to become a footballer as well as an engineer because we were also mentored on how to combine out academics with football.”

14 year old Ishola Damilare a student of Pakoto High school, Ayede-Ifo, who was picked for the camp after his exemplary performance in the finals of the GTBank Ogun State Principal Cup where he was voted the Most Valuable Player of the game, could not hide his joy after he was counted worthy for Camp GTBank.

“When I set my eyes on Victor Ikpeba, it was as if I was in paradise.

I could not believe my eyes. It was as if I was dreaming. Could these be the same Prince of Monaco I see on television that I am coming face-face with, I asked myself. Everything was just like a dream,” Damilare said.

Nigeria Cup 2015 tees-off Sept. 26 Ifeanyi Ibeh

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he 2015 edition of the Nigeria Cup, the country’s premier amateur golf tournament organised by the Ikoyi Golf Community Nigeria Association (IGCNA), will get underway on Saturday, September 26, at the Golf Section of the Ikoyi Club 1938, Lagos.

Commenting on this year’s tournament, which is themed “7 Shades of Green” to reflect the seven days the tournament will last for, as well as the celebration of Nigeria’s Independence, the chairman of the Organising Committee, Lanre Kalejaiye, in a statement made available to Sunday Telegraph, said the weeklong programme will commence on Saturday, September 26 with the children’s tournament, while Monday, Tuesday and Wednesday will be time for the Caddies, Ladies and Professionals.

The sum of N3million would be up for grabs in the Professional tournament which, according to Kalejaiye, is aimed at motivating professional golfers in Nigeria.

The LOC boss added that this year’s Independence Day Kitty, scheduled for Thursday, October 1, would be an exciting day of golfing for all club members. The day would also be used to celebrate Nigeria’s rich heritage in the arts.

It would be the turn of guests, veterans and sponsors to take to the course on Friday, October 2, while the final is scheduled for Saturday, October 3 followed by a Gala Dinner later in the evening.

The qualifier for the final took place yesterday.

Oare Ojeikere, Head of the Media Sub-committee said: “Primarily the event is a platform to commemorate the independence celebration of the country and that on its own defines a lot in the organisation of the event.”

55

SUNDAY TELEGRAPH, SUNDAY SEPTEMBER 13, 2015

Faith

THE LORD’S CHOSEN TRAIN TRAVELS TO AMICHI

A 2-day Holy Ghost inspired international crusade of The Lord’s Chosen Charismatic Revival Ministries Titled; ‘God’s Time To Take Over,’ will take place opposite Amichi Maternity Hospital, off C to C Junction Amichi, Nnewi South LGA, Anambra State. The event which kicks off at 8:00am daily on Saturday September 19 and Sunday 20, 2015 will witness tremendous out- pouring power of God as of old. Science Reporter, STANLEY CHIBUIHEM AMALAHA captures the preparatory event in pictures.

Sister Ifeoma testifies of the Lord’s doing in her life

Sister Victoria Ezeani restored and promoted in her office

Sister Chinwe testifies how God changed her husband ‘s liver

A Chosen sister favoured with accomodation

Barr. Sylvester Ezeani; sowed N200,000 seed, favoured with this monumental magnificent edifice in Amichi, Anambra State

General Overseer, The Lord’s Chosen CRM, Pastor Lazarus Muoka

Barr. Sylvester Ezeani (standing 2nd left) with some crusade planning committee of The Lord’s Chosen, Lagos

A section of Amichi men leaders of The Lord’s Chosen,Lagos preparing for the crusade

A section of Amichi women leaders of The Lord’s Chosen,Lagos preparing for the crusade

Pastor Muoka (R), with Rivers State Gov. Nyesom Wike at the just concluded crusade in Port-Harcourt

Everyone present will be enraptured in heavenly bliss. As exhilarating praise will flow from graceful hearts to His Majesty on high

SPORTS

Carl Ikeme: ‘Onitsha boy’ on Enyeama’s trail }53

FAITH

Sanctity of Truth

SUNDAY

NIGERIA’S MOST AUTHORITATIVE NEWSPAPER IN POLITICS AND BUSINESS

SUNDAY, SEPTEMBER 13, 2015

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Ezekiel challenges women on families }39

Where are Igbos, Yorubas in Buhari’s Govt? (3) T The Nigerian oday, we conclude our analysis of PMB’s lopsided appointments into his “Kitchen Cabinet”.

THE VIRAL WHATSAPP JOKE THAT CAPTURES THIS UNFORTUNATE SCENARIO Following is an apt message that came to my whatsapp virally, and which underscores the overwhelming anger of many Nigerians over these lopsided appointments: “1.President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria- North, 2. Senate President- North, 3.

Speaker of the House of RepresentativesNorth, 4. Chief Justice of the FederationNorth, 5. President of the Court of AppealNorth. 6. Chief Judge of the Federal High Court- North, 7. Chief Judge of the FCT High Court- North, 8. Chief Registrar of the Supreme Court- North, 9. Chief Registrar of the Court of Appeal- North, 10. Chief Registrar of the FCT High Court- North, 11. Secretary to the Federal Government- North, 12. Chief of Staff to the President- North, 13. Chief of Army Staff- North, 14. Chief of Air Staff- North, 15. Comptroller General of Customs- North, 16. Director-General of State Security Services (SSS)- North, 17. National Security Advisor- North, 18. Director General NIMASA- North, 19. Chairperson of the Independent Electoral Commission (INEC)- North, 20. Comptroller-General Immigration- North, 21. Accountant-General of the Federation- North, 22. Commander of Civil Defence Corps- North, 23. Chief Security Officer to the President- North, 24.

ADC to the President- North, 25. Principal Secretary to the President- North, 26. Senior Special Assistant to the President on MediaNorth, 27. Chairman of the EFCC- North, 28. Head of Service- North, 29. MD of Nigerian Ports Authority- North, 30. DG of Nigerian Broadcasting Commission (NBC)North, 31. Chairman NDLEA- North, 32.

DG of NAFDAC- North.

NIGERIANS WANTED “CHANGE” AND NOW HAVE GOT IT. NOONE SHOULD COMPLAIN BECAUSE THIS IS WHAT OUR PEOPLE WANTED. THOSE OF US THAT WARNED THE COUNTRY THAT THIS WOULD HAPPEN WERE INSULTED AND LAMPOONED. NOW WE HAVE TO LIVE WITH THE CONSEQUENCES OF OUR CHOICE FOR THE NEXT FOUR YEARS. WELCOME TO THE NEW NIGERIA. WELCOME TO ‘CHANGE’.”

I am not the author of the above.

NIGERIA IS A PLURALISTIC SOCIETY For the avoidance of doubt, there are competent people everywhere in Nigeria. Even from my own minority Etsako and Weppa Wanno alone, u can get more than 50 people who can creditably perform the same functions just given out. Nigeria is a pluralistic society, with 36 states, 774 Local Government Areas, about 289 ethnic groups, that speak over 500 languages. No one can convince me it’s only in the North that u can find “angels”, trusted and competent people to do Buhari’s “messianic” work.

The Nigerian Constitution is clear enough that all appointments must reflect the federal and gender characters. Its there, in black and white, not a matter of sentiments (Section 14 (3) of the 1999 Constitution of Nigeria). Where are the women in the about 29 appointments so far made? Where is the Beijing affirmative action for women reflected, as copiously done during GEJ’s much vilified govt? Only one or two!!! This is most scandalous. Let’s not dress anyone up in the

Project

MIKE OZEKHOME san, ofr mike.ozekhome@yahoo.com 08094777755 (sms only) garb of a spotless, sinless, “can-never-err Messiah”, who knows all our problems, how to solve them, and who, like the Lamb of God, taketh away all our sins; and who can therefore not be criticized, with suggestions adduced. I am not sure PMB believes he is God. He has never claimed to be one. Go in to the print, electronic and social media and see what most people, even his die hard supporters, are saying of him now. Read and hear the anger and righteous indignation across the land. This is not about me, Mike Ozekhome. We, the Nigerian people, the civil society, have a duty to put every government on its toes, otherwise we will find this lopsidedness reflected in PMB’s infrastructural allocations, because he has singled out some people and groups whom he believed did not vote for him. The country belongs to us all, and mercifully, some of us put our lives on the line, to bring about the present democracy, fighting successive military dictatorships, suffering several detentions, jail terms, exiles, beatings, molestations, dehumanization, tear gassing, indignities, etc. So, I am a great stake holder in “the Nigerian project”, the title of this back page Sunday Telegraph weekly column, that debuted in October, last year.

Like Justice Learned Hand once put it, “the only price we have to pay for our liberties is eternal vigilance”. But, for the 42 year old Rosa Parks who, in 1957, refused to vacate her bus seat for white supremacists in Montgomery, Alabama, USA; but for Martin Luther King Jnr, who protested across the streets of America; but for Abraham Lincoln who laid down his life in 1865, leading the Northern Union against Southern Confederates for the abolition of the then 500 year old slavery, abolishing same in 1868, with a proclamation, America will not be what it is today.

Let us always forget sentiments and deal with issues squarely when they crop up, by looking at the facts on the ground, and analysis anchored on those facts. Facts are sacred, while opinion or comment is free?

Are northerners the only competent and

honest people in Nigeria? So, no woman in Nigeria is competent, or honest enough to serve under Buhari? So, no serving Customs man or woman, including Deputy Comptrollers-General, except PMB’s ACF man, Col Hameed Ali, is competent to man the Customs? Haba!!!

NOW THIS HAMEED ALI’S APPOINTMENT AS CGS AS AN EXAMPLE The appointment of Hameed Ali has itself, particularly raised serious issues of propriety, having been brought in from outside the customs service. By Section 3:11:1 of the Federal Republic of Nigeria Official gazette No 24, vol 89, dated 25th March, 2002, the choice of the CG of Customs shall be by “appointment of a suitable Deputy Comptroller-General of Customs (General Duties)” .

Some PMB unrepentant apologists (who will never see anything wrong with any of his actions, the types that surrounded GEJ), have already argued, surprisingly, that a gazette is not a law, and so PMB was not obliged to follow the extant gazette in appointing one of the six serving Deputy Comptrollers-General of Customs as the CG. They even argue, tongue cheek, that he could not find a single officer amongst the six DCGs as incorruptible. Jesus!!! Why not dissolve the entire Customs then and set up a fresh one?

Let’s not carry this argument of PMB’s avowed cleanliness and anti-corruption stance of redemptive messianism to a laughable, ludicrous level. Otherwise, we should request God to loan us some of his angels and Saints to come and serve under PMB. True enough, before PMB, Shehu Musa, a career civil servant, had been seconded to serve as Director of the Dept. of Customs (he later became the Secretary to the Federal Govt in the Second Republic); Haliru Bello Mohammed, a Vetinary Doctor, was drafted from the Ministry of Internal Affairs, by IBB, to serve as CG of Customs

BUSY BODY

between 1989 and 1993.

Thereafter, Brigadier General Ango, a serving Soldier was appointed Sole Administrator, by late General Sani Abacha and he served till February, 1999, when General Abdulsalami Abubakar appointed Ahmed Mustapha, a serving officer, as the CG of Customs.

However, all these appointments took place before OBJ issued the administrative order in 2002, which was subsequently gazetted to have the force of Law. How can anyone argue that a gazette does not have the force of law, when the Constitution itself, in several sections, makes gazetting an indispensable legal prerequisite for the doing of any act. For example, the proclamation of a state of emergency by the President, must, under Section 305 of the 1999 Constitution, be gazetted by the NASS, before it can have the force of Law. AND THIS In any event, even if past governments did wrong in bringing in “outsiders” to head Customs, thus demoralizing the psyche of career officers, who have spent their lives serving the Nation, hoping to rise to the zenith of their career, why should PMB’s government which promised “Change”, repeat same? Is it not meant to be change from past bad habits, actions, inactions, maladministration, etc? Was that not why Nigerians voted for him and against GEJ’s government? Why not better call Col Ali “Sole Administrator”, not being a career Customs Officer?

So, is anyone saying that no Bini, Gbagyi, Fulfude, Nupe, Okun, Igbo, Yoruba, Urhobo, Efik, Ijaw, Afenmai, Esan, Tuareg, Anwain, Ebira, Igala, Emai, Idoma, Tiv, Ogoni, Awori, Annang, Isoko, Ibibio, etc, man or woman, is fit enough for PMB’s angelic kitchen cabinet? Haba! Let’s speak truth to authority now, before Nigeria is plunged into unnecessary crisis that only few people will square up to when the chips are down, while the majority keep mute and hide behind their wives’ backs in the comforts of their homes, as was the case during successive tyrannical military juntas in Nigeria.

SIGNING OFF Are PMB, APC, Tinubu, Onu, Ngige, Fashola, Amechi, PMB’s new appointees, Nigerians, both at home, and in the diaspora, reading and digesting this third and final tranche of PMB’s lopsided appointments by Chief Mike Ozekhome, SAN, OFR?

• Follow me on twitter @ MikeozekhomeSAN

By Aliu Eroje

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