Friday, April 16, 2021 Edition by Peoples Media Limited

Friday, April 16, 2021/ Ramadan 4, 1442 AH

Vol. 36 No. 053 N200

2553 Days after Malam Wada Maida (1950-2020), founding Chairman, Board of the Peoples Media Limited

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. . . putting the people first

The nation awaits rescue of the remaining abducted Chibok schoolgirls

Govs want FG to review nation’s security architecture >>PAGE 5

Again, juice mix kills 10 in Kano, 40 hospitalized PG 5

President Muhammadu Buhari returns from UK. Photo: State House

Insecurity: We have high expectations from IGP - Buhari

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Oil edges up to fresh 4 Scores of inmates, Blame unpatriotic Nigerians, Troops rescue herders weeks high as demand guards injured in Edo media for Twitter hqtrs in from attack in outlook improves Custodial Centre riot Ghana - Lai Mohammed Zangon Kataf pAGE 20

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PEOPLES DAILY, FRIDAY, APRIL 16, 2021

News CONTENTS News 6-18 Op.Ed

12-13

Politics 15-17 Stock Watch Business Metro

18 19-21 24

World Analysis 22 Africa News

World News

Insecurity: We have high expectations from IGP - Buhari By Egena Sunday Ode

resident Muhammadu Buhari Thursday returned to Abuja from his two weeks trip to the United Kingdom for a routine medical check up. On arrival at the Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport, Abuja, Thursday evening, the President while fielding questions from newsmen said Nigerians have high expectations from the Acting Inspector General of Police, IGP, Usman Alkali Baba He said due process was

followed in the appointment of Baba and that he has the necessary experience for the plum job. “Well, we went through the system, there was a committee by the Minister of Police Affairs, they gave me some names and he happened to be the one chosen. He knows his job, he has been in it for a long time, he went through all the trainings, he has the necessary experience. So, we have a high expectation from him,” Buhari He was also asked what Nigerians should expect from his administration going

forward after a well deserved rest in London for about 15 days. “Continuity,” he responded. The President said he was feeling very well and strong after the medical check up. Also answering a question on the performance of the service chiefs so far, President Buhari said they were doing their best and hoped that their best would be good enough for the country. His words: “Oh yes, they have been in the system all the way, they know what is wrong, they know what is right and I think they are doing their best. I hope their best will be good

enough for Nigeria.” Recall that the President had on Tuesday, March 30, 2021 departed Abuja for the United Kingdom. Femi Adesina, Special Adviser to the President on Media and Publicity, had in a statement said President Buhari was due back in the country in the second week of April, 2021. The President had met with Security Chiefs first in the morning, after which he embarked on the journey. “He is due back in the country during the second week of April, 2021,” the statement had said.

Sugar dispute: Ganduje reconciles Dangote, BUA Page 8

Digest

Feature 26 Sports 29-31 Back Page

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Vice President Yemi Osinbajo (R) with the Chief of Staff to the President, Amb. Ibrahim Gambari, during a virtual Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting (CHOGM) on Climate Change, at the Presidential Villa in Abuja on Thursday (15/4/21).

Health group seeks media support for fight against TB

he National Tuberculosis and Leprosy Control Programme has urged the mass media to assist in sensitising the public on the causes, prevention and treatment of tuberculosis (TB). The Director of the programme, Mrs Itohowo Uko, made the request on Wednesday in Umuahia during a virtual seminar organised for journalists in Abia and Enugu. She said that tuberculosis kills more people than Coronavirus pandemic in Nigeria, adding that the media had a lot of roles to play toward its reduction. She said more than 18 persons die of tuberculosis per hour in Nigeria, according to World Health Organisation (WHO) report. Quoting the report, she also

said that 157,000 persons died of tuberculosis in Nigeria in 2019. Uko said that the inability of TB patients to access medication during the Coronavirus lockdown worsened the spread of the disease in the country. She identified symptoms of tuberculosis as fever, loss of weight and protracted cough. Uko said that tuberculosis is curable contrary to misinformation, urging people with persistent cough that had lasted for two weeks to go for a test. She said that with early diagnosis, tuberculosis could be cured within six months, adding that its treatment is free at designated hospitals in the country. She however urged TB patients to endeavour to complete the treatment cycle of

six months to avoid its relapse. According to her, some patients usually discontinued with medication after two weeks of treatment, which gave them temporary relief . She dismissed the notion that TB could be contracted through sharing of plates, cups, cutlery or projected through witchcraft. “The diseases is only airborne,” she said. A resource person at the event, Mr Eze Eze, said it was important for journalists to focus more on human angle stories, while reporting about tuberculosis. Eze said that the media constiuted a significant force in helping people make informed decisions about their health. Another resource person, Dr Charles Ugwuanyi, said that the outbreak of Coronavirus pandemic worsened the plight

of TB patients, as they could not access treatment during the lockdown. He explained that TB and Coronavirus pandemic share similar symptoms but advised patients to go for early diagnosis so as to establish their particular case. Ugwuanyi, however, said that while Coronavirus was associated with dry cough, TB’s cough produces sputum. He cautioned against stigmatigation of TB patients, regretting that there is a significant reduction in people with cough seeking treatment for TB for fear of being considered Coronavirus patients. In a remark, Dr Okorie Onuka, Abia Focal Person for TB, reiterated the importance of media support for the fight against TB, saying that it is curable. (NAN)

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PEOPLES DAILY, FRIDAY, APRIL 16, 2021

News

SEC mandates CMOs to update investors information

he Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) has mandated all Capital Market Operators (CMOs) to update their investors’ Know Your Customer (KYC) information. The commission gave the mandate at the first quarter Capital Market Committee (CMC) virtual meeting on Thursday in Abuja. Speaking at the post-CMC virtual news briefing, Mr Lamido Yuguda, the DirectorGeneral of SEC, noted that the level of compliance by CMOs to the update was low. He disclosed that as at April 8, there were still over four million accounts with incomplete KYC information. Yuguda said that the update was critical to deepening the participation of retail investors in the market. “We direct all CMOs to accord it the highest level of priority. ”In the same vein, registered CMOs are advised to refrain from providing any form of support to unregistered entities operating unlawfully within our market, as such action would not be condoned. ”Furthermore, we urge CMOs to improve on their level of compliance, timeliness and correctness of disclosures and other filings made to the commission,” he said. Yuguda also informed the capital market community that the Nigerian Stock Exchange (NSE) had concluded the demutualisation process. He announced that the organisation would now be known as the Nigeria Exchange (NGX) Group Plc. The D-G said that as part of measures to support the development of the commodities ecosystem, the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) revalidated its 59.9 per cent holding in the Nigerian Commodities Exchange (NCX) to ensure its appropriate positioning for effectiveness. He said the move had addressed the funding problem plaguing the NCX and several engagements were ongoing with relevant authorities to promote trading on the Exchange. Yuguda explained that SEC was also engaging with the CBN to encourage acceptance of warehouse receipts by banks as collateral.(NAN)

News Editor, Tobias Lengnan Dapam

Govs wholly support autonomy for legislature, judiciary - Tambuwal By Egena Sunday Ode

okoto state governor, Aminu Waziri Tambuwal, on Thursday declared that state governors are totally in support of financial autonomy for the legislature and judiciary at the state level. He, however, insisted that its implementation to follow the provisions of the constitution. Fielding questions from newsmen after leading the members of the Technical Committee on the implementation of the autonomy of state legislature and the judiciary to a meeting with the Chief of Staff to the President, Ibrahim Gambari, the governor also called on the Judiciary Staff Union of Nigeria

(JUSUN) to call off its ongoing strike. He said the governors will meet on Monday to consider the final report of the technical committee in order to resolve issues raised. His words: “From the very beginning, during the 8th Assembly, under the leadership of Bukola Saraki and Speaker Dogara, the Governors Forum under Abdulaziz Yari then, met with them and supported the financial autonomy for the state legislature and the judiciary. And that is why with that support, we were able to achieve the passage of this amendment by the National Assembly and the state legislature across the country. So the governors are unequivocally

in support of the autonomy of these institutions.” Asked what the issues were if actually the governors were willing to implement legislature and judicial financial autonomy in their states, Tambuwal said “I can assure you that all of us are committed to building institutions, particularly our parliaments and the judiciary in our respective states, as governors democratically elected, and will do whatever it takes to make sure that whatever issues are resolved, as I told you before, some of it are constitutional. And then matters that have to do with the constitution, you have to be sure of what you’re doing; that you’re actually following the Constitution.”

On why the President Muhammadu Buhari had to set up the implementation committee when the governors were not opposed to the financial autonomy for legislature and judiciary, Tambuwal said he was not in any position to query the wisdom of the President on the matter. Tambuwal equally disclosed that his implementation committee had already spoken with Speakers of State Assemblies and Judiciary to continue to engage assuring that reasonable progress had already been made on the matter. “They should call off the strike. We’re appealing to them in the interest of this country, they should call off the strike,” he pleaded.

Chairman,Nigeria Governors’Forum and Ekiti state Governor Dr.Kayode Fayemi(second left)addressing the press during the NGF meeting over the strike by the Judicial Staff Union of Nigeria(JUSUN) and security situation of the country with him are Governor Simon Lalong of Plateau state(L),Governor Aminu Tambuwal of Sokoto state,Governor Darius Ishaku of Taraba state(2nd right) and Governor Abubakar Bagudu of Kebbi state(right)at the meeting.14/04/2021.

Intelligence gathering key to solving insurgency - GOC

he General Officer Commanding (GOC), 81 Division, Nigerian Army, Maj.-Gen. Lawrence Fejokwu, on Thursday, restated the importance of intelligence gathering to solving insurgency in the country. Fejokwu stated this at a press briefing held at the Division’s Headquarters, Victoria Island, Lagos. He said that sound intelligence gathering, interfacing with other security agencies and a good plan of action were needed to contain the activities of insurgents. “Once you have the right intelligence, you can nip in the bud the issue of insurgency and insecurity, before it starts to fester. “That is why intelligence sharing is key to solving the problem of insurgency because if you lay back on these issues they will come to your doorsteps,” he said. The GOC, therefore,

encouraged the media and the civil populace to be partners in the fight against insurgency by bringing up necessary information concerning issues and gatherings that looked suspicious. “It is such information that will enable the military to solve the problem of insurgency before it gets out of hand and begins to snowball into a bigger monster. “However, measures are been put in place for the security of Lagos State and Ogun State by the military, for a joint operation, when it becomes necessary. “The military is here to protect the citizens and make them go about their businesses in the safest environment, which is part of the mission I intend to entrench,” Fejokwu said. The GOC also urged the media to do their jobs objectively and with balanced reporting, without necessarily sensationalizing things with the aim of capturing

the audience. Fejokwu assured of improving on the trust between the media and the military, by exchanging necessary information as and when due, but stated that such trust should, however, not be betrayed. “It is what you put out there that people get to know, analyze, digest, take decisions and form opinions. “We will partner with the media to the best of our ability and run an open door system for free communication between the military and the media,” he said. Fejokwu said that there had been reports of attacks and imminent attacks on public and private facilities and assured the populace that the army was not sleeping over it. He, however, said that the army had its core mandate and where only assigned internal tasks from time to time which they try

to carry out to the best of their ability. “Everybody seems to want the army to provide answers for everything, while carrying out these tasks in the midst of fighting insurgency and all manner of violent crimes across the country. “Therefore, it is also important that we free up ourselves to an extent so that other security agencies will do their work and allow us to focus on our primary mandate. “However, it is only when whatever they are trying to manage begins to overwhelm them that we can be tasked to come in and give them support,” the GOC said. Fejokwu said that the army would continue to carry out training based on the directives of the Chief of Defence Staff (COAS), Gen. Leo Irabor, to prepare for emergency situations as they come. (NAN)

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PEOPLES DAILY, FRIDAY, APRIL 16, 2021

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PEOPLES DAILY, FRIDAY, APRIL 16, 2021

News

L-R:Chairman, NUJ Correspondent Chapel Federal Capital Territory, Mr. Philip Nyam Chairman of the Occasion, Senator Ali Ndume, representatives of Chairman NUJ Abuja Chapters, Mr. Patrick Osadebamwen,A Discussant, Mr. Kayode Ajulo, Member House of representatives, Mr. Dachung Bagos, and Executive Director, CISLAC, Mr. Musa Rafsanjani, during 2021 press week lecture, yesterday in Abuja. Photo: Mahmud Isa

NPA suspends ETO ticket at APM Terminal

he Nigerian Ports Authority (NPA), on Thursday, disclosed the suspension of ETO (Electronic Call-up for trucks) ticket for cargoes bound for the AP Moller Terminal (APMT) in Apapa. The is contained in a series of tweets on the official twitter page of the NPA. ”Following a dispute with the management of AP Moller Terminals at the Lagos Ports Complex, Apapa, members of the Maritime Workers Union have today, April 15, disrupted operations at the terminal. “While the NPA is working toward resolving the dispute between the two parties, APMT will not be able to receive or exit cargoes for the next 24 hours. “The authority hereby urges stakeholders to please take note, as ETO tickets will not be issued to APMT bound cargoes,” the tweets read. The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that Maritime Workers’ Union of Nigeria (MWUN) on April 15 shut down AP Moller Terminal (APMT) in Apapa. According to the President General of MWUN, Mr Adewale Adeyanju, the grounding of activities at the terminal is due to expiration of the one week plus notice given to the management of the terminal to adhere to the laws of the land. (NAN)

Again, juice mix kills 10 in Kano, 40 hospitalized From Kano

Mustapha

Adamu,

ano state government has confirmed the death of 10 persons, and 400 on admission in hospitals after taking killer local juice mix in the state. Recall that a similar incident had occurred last month after some residents in the state reportedly took drinks made up of poisonous local mix, situation that resulted to outbreak of strange disease that initially

killed 3 people and about 300 hospitalized after being transmitted to about 12 local government areas of the state. However, in an audio message, made available to newsmen in Kano yesterday, the state’s, Commissioner of Health, Dr Aminu Ibrahim Tsanyawa, revealed that no fewer than 10 persons have died, while 400 are on admission following complications that arose from consumption of the killer drinks in the state. Tsanyawa added that

out of the 400 people being hospitalized, over 50 are currently undergoing kidney related treatment in government hospitals. He cautioned residents on consumption of such juice mix, especially during the month of Ramadan to avoid catastrophic consequences. In a 1 minute 20 second long audio, the Commissioner said: ”As you are aware, the Ministry of Health had in the recent past announced the outbreak of a strange disease traceable to the

consumption of substandard juices. “The consumption of these fake and substandard products have telling effects on the kidney, and vital organs of the body. Therefore, i strongly caution you to avoid taking such juice flavours,” he said. Recall that the state Consumer Protection Council had intervened and arrested some suspected dealers in connection with the supply of the products, while confiscating several Catonsville of the assorted juice mix.

Abuja, equally condemned the attacks on correctional centre in Imo State, the killings in Benue State and other acts of violence and insecurity across the country. The Chairman of NGF and Governor of Ekiti State, Dr Kayode Fayemi, who briefed journalists at the end of the meeting, said it is time to comprehensively review the gamut of the nation’s security architecture. The NGF Chairman expressed deep concern at the situation and called for a revisit of “the nature

and depth of this security crisis.” In the words of Fayemi, “the situation would have gotten worse if state (governors) had not taken the actions they have been taken individually and collectively. “It is the steps taken at the state level that have managed to reduce the depths and the enormity of the security challenges. “Nonetheless, it is still a worrisome development for us and we feel we will need a special review of the entire gamut of the security issues that we are

dealing with and further engage the federal authorities both at the political level and federal authorities, in order to deal with this multifaceted challenges of security that we are faced”, he said. Speaking on the contentious Executive Order 10, the Ekiti governor said the NGF Committee responsible for engaging with the representatives of the legislature and the judiciary would meet them Thursday to convey the position of the governors.

Govs want FG to review nation’s security architecture By Lateef Ibrahim, Abuja

overnors of the thirty-six States of the federation have called for special review of the entire nation’s security architecture in order to contain the increasing security challenges in the country. The Governors made the call after a crucial meeting in Abuja under the aegis of Nigeria Governors Forum., NGF. The States’ Governors, who met on Wednesday night in

PEOPLES DAILY, FRIDAY, APRIL 16, 2021

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News By Mashe Umaru Gwamna

he federal government has reacted to the citing of Twitter African headquarters location in Accra Ghana. Peoples Daily recalled that on Monday,Chief Executive Officer Jack Dorsey had made the announcement via his twitter handle, that U.S. -based social media company, choice

UN COVID-19 Basket Fund financed 40% of medical supplies to Nigeria – Kallon

Blame unpatriotic Nigerians, media for Twitter hqtrs in Ghana - Lai headquarters for Africa will be located in Accra, Ghana. The Minister of Information and Culture, Lai Mohammed has blamed the media and some unpatriotic Nigerians for Twitter continental choice of citing their headquarters in Accra, Ghana over Nigeria. Lai in an interview yesterday with journalists in Abuja, said these will serve as a lesson for Nigerians to be patriotic in managing the image of the country. The minister explained that Nigeria has about 25 million twitter users against Ghana’s

eight million users. “With the number, it is natural to expect that Nigeria would have been the choice by Twitter to locate its headquarters for the continent of Africa . “The reasons cited by Twitter for citing the headquarters in Accra, Ghana is that Accra is a champion of democracy and there is rule of law in the country, among other reasons “This is what you get when you de-market your country.The media is more to blame for this which most times exaggerate the challenges in the country”. “At no time was this worse

than during the EndSARS protest when Nigerian journalists both traditional and new media were trying to outdo themselves in painting Nigeria as a hell where nobody should live. “When they all conspired to vilify not just the government but the people of Nigeria,’’ he said. The minister said he was pleased with the U.S. report which vindicated the Nigerian government that no single live was lost at the Lekki Toll Gate as opposed to what the majority of the media reported. “We are not saying that you should not criticise the country

but be fair and patriotic. “You can imagine the kind of job opportunities that citing that headquarters in Nigeria would have generated, the kind of visibility it would have given Nigeria but we destroyed it,’’ he said. He maintained that “it is what the insiders say about their country that the outsider will use to judge and condemn the country’’. He pointed out this development would serve as a lesson for us to be patriotic and manage the image of the country better.

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PEOPLES DAILY, FRIDAY, APRIL 16, 2021

I-G disbands Monitoring Units in Lagos, Port Harcourt

he Inspector General of Police (I-G), Mr Usman Baba, has ordered the immediate disbandment of the I-G Monitoring Units in Lagos and Port Harcourt. Baba gave the order on Thursday in Abuja at the opening of a conference of Police Strategic Commanders, consisting of officers of the rank of Commissioner of Police (CP) and above. The I-G has also ordered the streamlining of the personnel profile of the I-G Monitoring Unit at the Force Headquarters to not more than 50 operatives. The police boss announced the banning of the unit

from undertaking criminal investigations, including taking over of cases from Police Commands in States. According to him, under the current dispensation, the unit will only operate within their original mandate, to investigate complaints of professional infractions against serving officers. Baba said the directives were in furtherance to the reorganisation plans of the force and its commitment to return to the basics in policing. He said the repositioning initiatives were being worked out in relation to other ad hoc investigative units in the Force.

The Police boss said the idea was to restore professionalism, address citizens’ concerns on rights abuses resulting from the existence and operations of the ad hoc investigation units. Baba said it was also to discourage duplication of police functions that encourages indiscipline and abuse of police process. He said the conference was convened to interact with the officers and define his Mission Statement and organisational vision. The police boss said it was also to assess the current internal security situation across the country, review strategies and

put in place sets of strategic actions to restore order and public confidence. “I must reemphasise that the major task ahead of us is to address the treats of secessionism, banditry, kidnapping, armed robbery and sundry violent crimes in the shortest possible time. “I appreciate the sacrifices that most of you have been making and the successes you have recorded in the war against criminality and secessionist agenda. “I also acknowledge the challenges associated with your duties but the reality is that more grounds need to be covered if we are to restore public confidence,” he said. (NAN)

he United Nations Resident Coordinator in Nigeria, Edward Kallon said the UN COVID-19 Basket Fund financed 40 per cent of medical supplies to the country. Kallon disclosed this on the sideline of the launch of a 2.3 million dollar oxygen plant and vaccine storage in Borno state, which he said was part of the Nigerian COVID-19 multisectorial response plan. He said that the fund had also contributed in no small measure to building the capacity of states, health care workers, and health facilities across the nation to better respond to the pandemic. He hinted that the fund had raised more than 70 million dollars from which UN agencies were implementing their interventions. “Some initiatives by the UN include the establishment of the COVID-19 basket fund together with the government which has so far raised $73.3 million. “The basket fund is serving as COVID-19 financing and investment platform for diverse stakeholders to channel their financial support to ensure an efficient, effective, and impactful response to the pandemic. “The fund has been operational with UN agencies applying for funds in support of national response with interventions covering community engagement, strengthening state-level operational capacity and surveillance. “It also covers infection prevention and control, building the capacity of healthcare workers in case management and strengthening hospitals’ capacity to respond and engage with Civil Society Organisations to reverse the negative effect of COVID-19. “I am really happy to report today that 40 per cent of the COVID-19 medical supplies in Nigeria were sourced from the Basket Fund. “This one UN response has also been described by stakeholders as one of the global best practices of multilateralism at the country level,” he said.

Gombe state Governor, Alhaji Muhammadu Inuwa Yahaya (middle), Kogi state governor Alhaji Yahaya Bello (left) and former speaker of the house of representatives, Hon. Patricia Etteh during the inaugural meeting of APC contact and Mobilization committee at the APC national secretariat in Abuja, yesterday.

FCT: Gwagwalada Chairman inspects projects, hails contractors By Usman Shuaibu

he Executive Chairman of Gwagwalada Area Council in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Hon. Adamu Mustapha Danze, has inspected both ongoing and completing projects, while hailing the contractors for handling the projects transparently. Danze, who stated this while speaking with newsmen after the inspection of the projects on Wednesday in Gwagwalada, said that the projects inspected were carried out in the second term of his administration. His words: “The people who

said that the local governments in Nigeria are not doing anything, I want to prove them wrong. From what you are seeing today on ground, practically demonstrated by the little funds available to the Area Council administration, we are able to put smiles on the faces of the people”. He then appreciated the legislators and his cabinet members for showing transparency towards the completion of some projects. The Chairman pointed out that his administration would make sure that the ongoing projects would complete before the commencement of the rain.

Also speaking, the Director in charge of works in the Area Council, Engr Oguh Momoh, called on the management of the to provide more funds for the completion of the ongoing projects in place, saying that the current ongoing projects would cost the Area Council about N3.2billion. Momoh said he would continue to give the necessary support to the contractors to handle the projects professionally. On his part, Engr Lukman Lawal who spoke on behalf of the contractors, assured the authority of the Area Council that the contractors would continue to do their best in

the area of quality services. Lawal thanked the council Chairman for taking the contractors along in the scheme of things. Meanwhile, some of the projects site visited are completion of Ledi motorise water scheme/ongoing one kilometer ledi road rehabilitation, completion of Dobi culvert, completion of Old Kutunku culvert, completion of Paikon-Ibwa culvert, completion of demonstration primary school road, rehabilitation of Gwagwalada town hall road, completion of Diamond Bank road in Gwagwalada and completion of drainage/culvert at new millennium road in Gwagwalada.

Gwagwalada Chairmanship election: Ex- Council Chair picks APC nomination form By Usman Shuaibu

head of the 2022 Chairmanship election in Gwagwalada Area Council of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), the former Chairman of the Area Council,

Hon. Abubakar Jibrin Giri has picked the nomination form of All Progressives Congress (APC) to contest for the Chairmanship position in the area. Giri was accompanied by the APC supporters/members to the party’s secretariat in Abuja.

It would be recalled that Giri had met with the executives of APC in Gwagwalada before the purchase of the nomination form. It was also gathered that the former Chairman had consultative meetings with the

traditional rulers across the ten political wards in Gwagwalada for his ambition to contest for the chairmanship election. It was observed that the supporters of Giri were happy for the necessary action taken by the aspirant.

Vice Chairman,Nigeria Governors’Forum and Sokoto state Governor,Aminu Tambuwal(R) exchanging pleasantry with Governor Darius Ishaku of Taraba state while Chairman,Nigeria Governors’Forum and Ekiti state Governor Dr.Kayode Fayemi look with keen interest during the NGF meeting over the strike by the Judicial Staff Union of Nigeria(JUSUN) and security situation of the country.14/04/2021.

Troops rescue herders from attack in Zangon Kataf From Femi, Oyelola kaduna

roops under the auspices of Operation Safe Haven (OPSH) have rescued from an attack two herders; Zakariya Ahmadu and Abubakar Kofar in Mabuhu village of Zangon Kataf Local Government Area, of kaduna state. This was contained in a statement signed by the Commissioner, Ministry of Internal Security and Home Affairs Samuel Aruwan and made available to

media in kaduna yesterday. The Statement stated that the troops in conjunction with the Special Forces of the Nigerian Air Force, responded to a distress call and rescued both herders with their 200 cattle, handing them over to their employer, one Alhaji Alhamdu. No harm came to the herders or cattle. Similarly, troops of Operation Safe Haven responded to a distress call relaying information of a kidnap operation along the Gidan Waya-Jagindi road, Jema’a local

government area. The troops rescued one Ibrahim Tafida from the scene, after armed bandits had opened fire on his vehicle, forcing it to a stop in a bid to kidnap the occupant. “The bandits, who abandoned their mission and fled as they sighted the approaching troops, are currently being trailed.” On a sad note, troops discovered the dead body of one Jafaru Isah in the bushes beside a river in Farin Hawan village, Jema’a local government area.

The troops mobilized to the area following a tip-off and found the decomposing body which was handed over to the family of the deceased for burial. The statement added that investigation into the incident are ongoing. Acknowledging the reports, Governor Nasir El-Rufai noted with sadness the discovery of the corpse in Jema’a LGA, and sent condolences to the family of the deceased, as he prayed for the repose of his soul.

News Minister expresses disappointment over murder of soldiers in Benue From: Uche Makurdi

Nnorom,

inister of Defence, Rtd General Bashir Salihi Magashi has said that the Nigerian Armed Forces are deeply saddened and disappointed by the killing of soldiers in Konshisha Local Government Area of Benue State. Gen. Magashi who expressed his disappointment when he led the Chief of Defence Staff, Chief of Army and other top military officers on a courtesy call on Governor Samuel Ortom yesterday at Government House, Makurddi, maintained that the unfortunate incident will not discourage the military from carrying out its duty of protecting lives of the people. The Defence Minister who expressed President Muhammadu Buhari’s displeasure over the killing of soldiers, warned that barbarism and anything that tries to make Nigeria ungovernable would not be accepted. He stated that for the morale of the soldiers to be restored, perpetrators of the dastardly act must be apprehended and made to face the wrath of the law, pointing out that they were also in the state to restore confidence in the troops. Governor Samuel Ortom who expressed deep sympathies with the President and the Armed Forces over the barbaric act said he lost sleep since the unfortunate incident occured. The Governor who acknowledged the enormous support and contributions of security agencies especially the military in ensuring peace in the State said he had directed stakeholders from Konshisha Local Government Area to fish out the perpetrators. He pledged his administration’s support and cooperation to security agencies to ensure those responsible for the dastardly act were apprehended and brought to justice, and prayed for the restoration of peace and security in all parts of the country.

Police deploy 17,500 personnel for Rivers LG election

he Police Command in Rivers has deployed no fewer than 17,500 personnel for Saturday’s Local Government elections in the state. The command’s Spokesman, SP Nnamdi Omoni, made this known in a statement in Port Harcourt on Thursday. Omoni said the deployment

of the personnel and hardware was aimed to forestall possible violence and ensure free, fair and transparent exercise. He said: “The Rivers State Police Command wishes to inform the general public that adequate security has been emplaced to ensure a peaceful exercise. “To realise the full objective

of the council elections and engender a seamless exercise, the command has deployed 17,500 personnel. “The deployment will be complemented by deployments from other sister security agencies to maintain law and order before, during and after the elections.” Omoni said the state Commissioner of Police (CP),

Eboka Friday, had directed total restriction of movement of persons, vehicles and boats on land and waterways before and during the exercise. He said the restriction would begin from midnight on Friday to 2 p.m. on Saturday. According to him, the CP who is Chairman of the Inter-

Agency Consultative Committee on Election Security, also barred VIPs and politicians from going to voting centres with their security details. “Movement of VIPs and politicians is only allowed from their houses to the voting centres and back, as provided by the Electoral Act. (NAN)

PEOPLES DAILY, FRIDAY, APRIL 16, 2021

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News Minister apologises to Nigerians over power outages

he Minister of Power, Mr Sale Mamman, has apologised to Nigerians over the current power outages experienced across many parts of the country. Mr Aaron Airtimas, Senior Special Adviser on Media and Communications to the Minister of Power, said this in a statement in Abuja on Thursday. Mamman said that he regretted this unfortunate situation and offered his sincere

apology to all affected Nigerians on the inconveniences the power shortages were causing them. He assured Nigerians that the ministry through the appropriate agencies was working assiduously to rectify the technical and gas problems affecting the plants. Mamman said that the ministry of power was not unaware of the current power outages affecting some parts of the country. ”The problem is caused

by the breakdown of some of the National Integrated Power Plants supplying electricity to the national grid. ”The plants are namely, Sapele, Afam,Olonrunsogo, Omotosho, Ibom, Egbin, Alaoji and Ihovbor. ”The Jebba Power Plant was shut down for annual maintenance,” he said. According to him, seven other integrated power plants, namely Geregu, Sepele, Omotosho,

Gbarain, Omuku, Paras and Alaoji are experiencing gas constraints, while the Shiroro plant had water management problems. The minister further promised that the national grid would be restored to its previous distribution peak of about 5,600MW of electricity achieved early this year. This he said was to relieve Nigerians from the current harsh climatic conditions and restore full economic activities. (NAN)

L-R:Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu of Lagos state,Governor Abdullahi Sule of Nasarawa state and Governor Abdulrahman AbdulRazaq of Kwara state during the NGF meeting over the strike by the Judicial Staff Union of Nigeria(JUSUN) and security situation of the country.14/04/2021.

Sugar dispute: Ganduje reconciles Dangote, BUA From Kano

Mustapha

Adamu,

overnor Abdullahi Umar Ganduje of Kano state, has reconciled the dispute that broke out between two Kanobased and Africa’s giant business moguls, Aliko Dangote and Abdussamad Isyaku Rabi’u over sugar control in the country. Rumours were making the round that Dangote, Chairman of Dangote Group of Companies and Rabi’u, Chairman of BUA Group of Companies, were at loggerhead over the control of sugar, one of the essential commodities in Nigeria. However, governor Ganduje deemed it fit to Wade into the matter in a bid to reconcile the

two giant business moguls for the benefit of the citizens, especially in the Ramadan season. He then called the duo for a reconciliation meeting, which took place at Kano Governor’s Lodge, Asokoro, Abuja, Wednesday, according to statement by Abba Anwar, Ganduje’s Chief Press Secretary on Thursday. He said the reconciliation has put a stop to all rumours making round that the duo were in dispute over sugar control in the country. Anwar added that the meeting was with the good support of the renowned business mogul, Alhaji Aminu Alhassan Dantata, who is uncle to Dangote, the Kano emirate council and Kano Council of Ulama.

“Both parties, Chairman of Dangote Group of Companies and Chairman BUA Group of Companies, agreed to work together and supply enough sugar to satisfy the demand of the country. “They all dismissed allegation that Dangote was planning to see to the increase of sugar price, through pressuring BUA to succumb to the increment. They described that allegation as baseless and lacking any iota of truth,” the statement reads in part. All the two business moguls, according to Anwar, agreed to work together as brothers for the growth and development of the nation at large. Assuring that, henceforth, there would be no

differences, that could cause any disharmony between them. He noted that the meeting was seen as the zenith of other similar efforts to reconcile the two giants by the governor. Alhaji Aminu Alhassan Dantata played the role of a father during the meeting. “Present at the meeting were the Minister for Commerce, Trade and Investment, Mr Niyi Adebayo, representative of the Kano Emirate, Alhaji Aminu Babba Dan Agundi, Chairman of the Council of Kano Imams, Sheikh Muhammad Nasir Adam, the Chief Imam of Sheikh Ahmadu Tijjani Friday Mosque, Kofar Mata, Kano and the Chairman of NEPZA, Hon. Adamu Panda,” Anwar disclosed.

Speaker admonishes Muslims to pray for peace From Gambo Ahmed, Lafia

asarawa State House of Assembly Speaker, Abdullahi Balarabe has admonished

Muslims to pray for the sustainability of peace and harmonious co existence at all times for the development of the state and the nation at large. The speaker who made the call in

a press statement issued yesterday in Lafia. According to him, “let us pray for the unity of our country and our state. Let us pray for the administration

of governor Sule. Prayer is the key to success. We should all pray to live harmoniously with one another irrespective of tribe, religion or political affiliation.”

PEOPLES DAILY, FRIDAY, APRIL 16, 2021

Lawmaker lists impediments to women empowerment

EDO 2020: Okowa congratulates victorious Team Delta

member House of Representative, Dr Haruna Mshelia (Hawul/Askira Uba Federal Constituency), has listed negative culture, religion and illiteracy as the greatest impediments to women empowerment. Mshelia, who is also a member of the ECOWAS Parliament, stated this in an interview with newsmen on Thursday on the sideline of the ongoing ECOWAS Parliament de-localised meeting in Monrovia, Liberia. Mshelia said women have the capacity and all it takes to lead but the three factors of negative cultural practices, religion and under education have suppressed them. The lawmaker however called for the implementation of affirmative actions to put women at a level playing ground with men, thus guaranteeing their empowerment. “Gender issues are things that affect the region generally, every country is affected and like I said, there is no man on earth that does not like women. “Unfortunately because of our cultural and religious practices the womenfolk have found themselves on the short side of the stake. “Because the cultural and religious factors have favoured men, men are dominant in every sector of the society, politically and economically. “If we have to redress it, we need to look at these negative culture and influences of religion that suppresses the women. “We should say it as it is and come up with laws, action plans that will help the women come closer. “As far as intelligent and capacity to lead is concerned, there is no difference between men and women but all I am saying is, let us create a level playing ground. “Again, once women are educated it is synonymous with being empowered because they can go for any job; they can drive and start learning skills,’’ he said. He said that if women were given a level playing ground over a period of time, all these things will be resolved. Mshelia also suggested a quota or affirmative action be made justiciable so that if the women do not get their rightful positions, political seats, they can go to court to claim it. He called for the abolition of some negative practices against women like Female Genital Mutilation (FGM), child marriage and lack of right to inheritance and lands. The lawmaker advised women to support each other, alleging that women are enemies of themselves as they tend to support the male counterparts over their own gender during elections.

By Nosa Akenzua, Asaba overnor Ifeanyi Okowa of Delta state has congratulated the state’s contingent to the justconcluded 20th National Sports Festival in Edo for emerging overall winners of the games. Team Delta, the defending champions of the competition, topped the medals table with 158 gold, 126 silver and 110 bronze, hauling a total of 394 medals. The host, Edo, came second with 129 gold, 104 silver and 108 bronze, while Bayelsa won 56 gold, 55 silver and 58 bronze medals to place third. In a statement by his Chief Press Secretary, Olisa Ifeajika, on Thursday, in Asaba, the governor lauded the contingent for outstanding performance and for sustaining the state’s winning streak at the sports fiesta which accounted for the successful defence of the title it won in the last edition in 2018. According to him, Team Delta has again brought honour to our state by winning the competition for the sixth consecutive time. “On behalf of the government and people of Delta, I congratulate members of the victorious ‘Team Delta’ for once again bringing honour to our great state with their sixth consecutive wins at the National Sports Festival. “Just like I said before your departure to Benin for the games, you all went through trying times preparing for the 20th edition of the festival and I am glad that by the grace of God, with discipline, perseverance and motivation, you have once again bought the trophy home. “Although we had a stiff contest from the host, we were able to maintain our unassailable lead and we give God all the glory. “Let me assure you that because you have kept your own side of the bargain by winning the competition again, the state government remains irrevocably committed to rewarding medalists at the competition,” Okowa said. He commended Delta State Sports Commission officials and coaches of Team Delta for leading the contingent to victory. The governor also lauded Edo State Government for not only being able to host the festival after several postponements, but doing so successfully and grandiosely.

Page 9

News Printed N60bn: Stop playing the ostrich, Obaseki hits back at FG By Osaigbovomwan Iguobaro

he controversy over the alleged N60 billion by the Nigerian Government to augment March allocation to States, has assumed a new dimension. The Edo State governor, Mr. Godwin Obaseki in a statement on Thursday, advised the Minister of Finance, Budget and National Planning, Mrs. Zainab Ahmed to stop playing the Ostrich. Obaseki had told a gathering of politicians that: “When we got FAAC (Federal Account Allocation Committee) for March, the government printed additional

N50-N60 billion to top-up for us to share. He alleged that: “This April, we will go to Abuja and share. At the end of this year, our total borrowings is going to be within N15-N16 trillion”. But the Minister on Wednesday punctured the allegation by Obaseki, describing it as untrue, sad and unfortunate. She insists Nigeria’s debt is still within sustainable limit and efforts are on to improve revenue generation capacity. “The issue that was raised by the Edo State Governor is very, very sad. Because it is not fact. “What we distribute at FAAC

is revenue that is generated and in fact distribution revenue is public information. We publish revenue generated by FIRS, the customs and the NNPC and we distribute at FAAC. “So, it is not true to say we printed money to distribute at FAAC, it is not true,” she said. But, the Governor in the statement titled: “Our advice is that we stop playing the Ostrich”, advised the Government to rally Nigerians to stem the obvious fiscal slide facing our Country. “While we do not want to join issues with the Federal Ministry of Finance, we believe it is our duty to offer useful advice for the benefit

of our country. “The Minister of Finance, Budget and National Planning, Mrs. Zainab Ahmed should rally Nigerians to stem the obvious fiscal slide facing our Country. “Rather than play the Ostrich, we urge the government to take urgent steps to end the current monetary rascality, so as to prevent the prevailing economic challenge from degenerating further. “We believe it is imperative to approach the Nigerian project with all sense of responsibility and commitment and not play to the gallery because ultimately, time shall be the judge of us all”, Obaseki stressed.

L-R: Chairman of Federal Government Visitation Panel, Federal Polytechnic of Oil and Gas Bonny, Rivers state, Prof. Ben Angwe, Chairman of the visitation Panel for Federal College of Education Bichi, Prof. Rashid Aderinoye, The Pamanent Secretary , Federal Ministry of Education, Arc. Sunny Echono and the Executive Secretary, National Universities Commission, Prof.Rasheed Abubakar, during the inauguration of the Federal Government Visitation Panel to Federal Polytechnics and Colleges of Education, held recently in Abuja. Photo: Justin Imo-owo

Lawmaker wants 30% women representation in ECOWAS Parliament

ambian Lawmaker, Hon. Fatmata Njai says the ECOWAS Parliament can achieve 30 per cent representation of women in parliament only if it rejects nominations from countries not meeting the criteria. Njai expressed this thought while speaking with journalists during the Fifth Legislature’s Delocalised meeting of the ECOWAS Parliament holding in Monrovia with the theme, “Empowerment of Women in the ECOWAS Region.” Njai said it was pertinent to note that some countries lacked female representation in the Conference of Bureau in the ECOWAS Parliament, a trend which she said was in disregard “of the ECOWAS Rules of Procedures.” “The Rules of Procedures

mentioned that each member country should have a female representation at the Conference of Bureau. “Each country has three members in the Conference of Bureau, so, each country can at least have one female member which will be thirty per cent representation. “I think if we are to preach something, we should be seen acting what we preach. “We can ask countries to send 30 per cent and we must enforce that as well. “But if countries say that they do not have 30 per cent, what is stopping them from having 30 per cent? “It is not that they do not have females in these countries. They have them and they have competent women as well,

but why are they not winning elections? “I think that is the question,” Njai said. The Gambian lawmaker urged countries in the sub-region to create a level-playing field for all genders in order to be able to address the question of why women are not winning elections. “When I first joined the ECOWAS Parliament, we were 25 women in number. We have lost some of the women and I think now we are 18 in number which is something that should be addressed. “Why are women losing elections, and why are countries not sending the 30 per cent as stipulated and is required from them by ECOWAS. “I think that if countries send a list that is short of 30 per cent, the

ECOWAS should reject that list,” Njai added. She urged women not to just sit down, fold their arms, and wait until they were “given the ball to play. “We should actually demand it or grab it ourselves. So, I don’t see that as a problem. I see us women being our own enemies because like somebody mentioned, if a woman wants to run for office, it is the same women that would refuse to vote for them, and for us being in the majority why should that happen? “We should vote for our fellow women and be at the table where the men are. “I implore my female counterparts not to give up. It might be difficult but it is not impossible, That is what I always say.’’ the Gambian lawmaker said.

PEOPLES DAILY, FRIDAY, APRIL 16, 2021

PAGE 10

News

Ministry, NDLEA collaborate to launch campaigns on illicit drugs trafficking By Mashe Umaru Gwamna

he Federal Ministry of Information and Culture said it is partnering with the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) to launch a national campaign against drug trafficking and illicit use of drugs in the country. The Minister of Information and Culture, Lai Mohammed, made the disclosed yesterday in Abuja when he received the Chairman of the NDLEA, Brig.Gen. Buba Marwa (Rtd), on a courtesy visit to his office. The minister said the level of involvement of using illicit drug and trafficking has become a menace in the society from

township to rural areas. He said the war against illicit drugs and tackling drug trafficking is one of the most important tasks in the country today. “considering that drug trafficking, money laundering by traffickers and the use of illicit drugs are closely linked to the nation’s security,well being of the citizens, the moral fabric of the society and even governance. “It is common knowledge that drug money can be used to finance insurgency and terrorism. A successful fight against drug trafficking will therefore help to deny or reduce funding for insurgency. “The kind of vicious banditry and kidnapping for ransom that our country has witnessed in

recent times cannot be totally separated from illicit drug use and their effects on users who take to crime.” he stated . He said the Federal Ministry of Information and Culture will work with NDLEA to give maximum publicity of their activities, especially in the area of advocacy. “I will also encourage the NDLEA to work with the National Orientation Agency (NOA), which has set up Integrity Clubs in Secondary Schools nationwide, to reach the young ones with its campaign against drug use,” he said. Mohammed commended the NDLEA Chairman for recording impressive achievements in less than three months of his

appointment, particularly in restoring the visibility of the Agency for local and international partnerships. He said others are boosting the morale and confidence of staffers, attracting international support and the ‘offensive action’ against drug cartels that has led to the arrest of 2,175 drug traffickers, seizure of 2,050,765.33 kilogrammes of illicit drugs as well as cash and drug seizures worth N75 billion. Earlier, In his remarks, the NDLEA Chairman, Gen. Marwa (Rtd), said drug abuse has assumed an alarming proportion in Nigeria, which, he said, has about 15 million drug users between the age bracket of 15 and 64, 25%

Group condemns attack on Ebonyi community

Chief of the Naval Staff (right) Vice Admiral Awwal Gambo presenting a souvenir to the representative of the French Navy, Vice Admiral Oliver Lebas at the Flag Transfer Ceremony of Nigerian Navy’s newest hydrographic survey vessel NNS LANA in Saint Nazaire France .

he Amalgamated Ngboejeogu Youth (ANY) Umuogudu Akpu, Ngbo in Ebonyi has condemned the violent attack on the community by gunmen, suspected to be herders. The group’s position is contained in a communique made available to the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) in Abakaliki. It was signed by Uche Ega (President), Samuel Okpor (Secretary), Michael Odo (Legal Adviser) and 15 others. NAN recalls that gunmen had in the early hours of Monday attacked the community and destroyed property worth millions of naira. “ANY condemns in strong terms the barbaric act by unknown gunmen and urge the government to assume its statutory responsibility of protecting lives and property of its citizens. “We, the youths, have gone round in the affected areas with a view to ascertain the level of damage. “The attack was carried out on four villages, including Ebele Umugadu, Otuebu Umugadu, Ndiegu Ibe-Agba and Odebo,” the communique stated. It appealed to the state and federal governments, public spirited individuals and corporate bodies to come to the aid of the people, who lost all they had.

of whom are females. Gen. Marwa, explained that drug abuse has been fueling insecurity in the country, said the agency had arrested two traffickers from Niger Republic and Chad, who confessed to supplying illicit drugs to bandits. He sought the collaboration of the ministry and its agencies to launch a nationwide public sensitization on drug demand reduction drive through advocacy programmes in the media in order to curb drug abuse in the country. The chairman also commended the Minister for the excellent work he has been doing, along with the agencies under him, ‘’to promote the good work of the Federal Government and the country as a whole’’.

Photo: DINFO NHQ

UN tasks ECOWAS on policies to protect, recognise women in informal sectors

rs Sangeteta Thapa, Deputy Country Representative, UN Women, in Liberia has urged the ECOWAS Parliament to come up policies to protect and recognise contributions of women in the informal sectors. Thappa made the call, on Wednesday, at a Technical Session on “Strategies to Empower Women Working in the Informal Sector” at the ongoing ECOWAS Parliament delocalized meeting in Monrovia, Liberia. According to Thappa, women in the informal sector contributed a lot to the economies of countries in the ECOWAS region but unfortunately, they are invisible and their contributions unrecognised. Thappa urged the ECOWAS Parliament not to limit their focus on women in the formal sectors but also push for policies that would protect and recognise women in the informal sector. She said that UN Women had been doing a lot to support Informal women Cross Border

Traders in Liberia, recognising their huge economic contributions to trading activities in Liberia. This, she said, related to the challenges Informal women Cross Border Traders faced, even in other countries of the Sub- region. “Women are economic actors and the importance of women in the informal sector cannot be overemphasised. “They are the backbone of the society and their contributions are not formally recognised, but they have proven themselves to be economic actors whose contributions are not visible. “So it is very important to formalise their role and to recognise them to have an identity so that their contributions are recorded in the National Account system. “That is something that is not recorded and something that we really need to push. “As a region, there should be a few things that can be done together; I think individually in each of these countries, we need to take into consideration,

the constraints and the recommendations. “The ECOWAS Parliament should also recognise their roles in society and push for laws that will protect them and recognise their efforts. “But as a regional body I think there should be a way to enforce mechanisms and monitor how they are implemented and how they are followed. And probably come up with a solution on actions to be taken if they are not monitored,” Thappa said. In her presentation, Hon. Salimata Ouatara, Chairperson, Gender, Social Action and Health Committee, Burkina Faso, said jobs in the informal economy in West Africa accounted for 76 per cent of the working population. She said it was the most feminised sector with 53 per cent of informal workers being women and it played a very important role in the empowerment of women in the ECOWAS region. Ouatara said it was important for Member States to take

seriously, capacity building of women in their informal sector so as to support and strengthen their businesses. ‘As long as women, who are the majority in the population, are not, or poorly integrated into economic growth, the impact of our State’s efforts on development will be less visible in terms of enrichment of the whole population. “There is therefore, a need to initiate and diversify inclusive, innovative strategies, following the evolution of technology, that can contribute to the empowerment of women,” Ouatara said. Dr Faye Ndoumbe, Programme Officer, Gender and Civil Society, ECOWAS Commission, said there was need to promote advocacy so that laws could be changed in favour of women. “We have to think of the best strategies and a law within the West African region to promote and protect women’s rights, including those in the informal sector,” Ndoumbe said.

PEOPLES DAILY, FRIDAY, APRIL 16, 2021

PAGE 11

Letter to the Editor

EDITORIAL

Simply shameful

igeria kicked off its Covid-19 vaccination campaign March 5 after receiving nearly four million doses of the AstraZeneca vaccine. Full vaccination commenced soon afterwards in 32 states and the Federal Capital Territory (Abuja) but Kogi, Kebbi, Zamfara, and Oyo fell behind.

Covid-19 vaccine. We saw it all in the manner palliatives were mishandled, stolen, repackaged and resold in the open during the lockdown period announced by the government. Underhand dealing was widely reported in the contracts for the purchase of the palliatives. Though the reports were denied by the Presidential Task Force on Covid-19, mistrust of government officials ran deep. Private sector contributors to the fight against the pandemic refused to give money to the government, but did it alone.

Even so, hitches have emerged, some very serious. Perhaps, the most worrisome is suspected sabotage and corruption. Director-General of the National Primary Health Care Government’s denial of Development Agency (NPHCDA), Dr. Faisal Shuaib, said on anything untoward in the Monday that 122,410 have been handling of the palliatives fell vaccinated across the country in flat on its face last year. Angry a population of over 200 million. Nigerians, during the October However, according to him, anti SARS riots, attacked ware “issues of mismanagement” have houses in state capitals, helping been reported at some centres. He themselves to the stocks and singled out the one at the police burning the rest. clinic, Falomo in Lagos It is against State. “This is currently this backdrop that being investigated and we maintain that we understand from the latest ugly Lagos State Government Shuaib said the the report about the that a report would government ongoing Covid-19 be filed,” he said. “We has instituted vaccination anticipate that decisive campaign is action will be taken mechanisms not completely against anyone found to ensure that surprising. Mr. culpable of subverting the roll out of Shuaib used phrases the vaccination the COVID-19 such as “issues of process.” vaccine is free mismanagement”, “subverting” and Shuaib said the from corrupt “corrupt practices”. government has practice. Other than imply instituted mechanisms that something is to ensure that the roll out of the COVID-19 wrong, they do not say anything vaccine is free from corrupt exact. But then this is normal in practice. He said there was “a officialese. Make it as bland as collaborative partnership” with possible to make investigation regulatory and anti corruption impossible. One good thing, agencies to strengthen vaccine however, though. These exposés accountability. “Any information are coming out in the early days of vaccine mishandling and of the vaccination campaign. This mismanagement will be handled means something still can be done using stringent measures and to stop the rot before it spreads. But who will do it. Certainly, not appropriate sanctions,” he said. the government. We are thinking We are not surprised by of trusted independent bodies like the exposé now emerging with the World Health Organization regard to the handling of the (WHO).

“

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COVID - 19 in the FCT: The journey so far!

he Federal Capital Territory, FCT, Lagos and Ogun States were the first few States in Nigeria to be hit by the rampaging COVID-19 virus early in March 2020. It all started in Lagos when an Italian who arrived the country through the Murtala Muhammed International Airport was said to have tested positive to the corona virus. Contact tracing further revealed another case in Ogun State and eventually, the discovery of an isolated case in the FCT on March 21, 2020. This created an air of panic and concern across the country prompting authorities to introduce necessary containment measures which greatly affected the way people live and conduct their businesses in the FCT. As it would be recalled, on the advice of the Presidential Task Force (PTF) on COVID-19 the Federal Government of Nigeria on March 29, 2020 declared a total lockdown in the FCT and the other two States. The government also directed that schools, religious institutions, markets for non-essential services, recreational centres, among others should remain shut for an initial period of two weeks to ensure that the disease does not spiral out of control. Drawing inspiration from the PTF’s activities, and lessons learnt from containment initiatives in China and some European countries where the virus had its most devastating impacts, the Honourable Minister, Mallam Muhammad Musa Bello in his characteristic concern for health and safety in the FCT set to work with his colleague, the Honourable Minister of State, FCT Dr Ramatu Tijjani Aliyu and developed corresponding internal mechanisms to complement the work of the PTF and keep the Covid-19 curve in check. Thus, they introduced pragmatic measures that not only reflected the social dynamics of the FCT but also ensured guided and systematic approach to the containment process. Among the pragmatic steps taken by the FCTA was the setting up of the Ministerial Expert Advisory Task Team on COVID-19, comprising of private sector stakeholders and headed by a former Minister of FCT, Dr Aliyu Modibbo. The team was tasked with the responsibility of harnessing private sector support and efforts towards defeating the deadly virus. Specifically, the team was mandated to rally wealthy individuals and organisations to provide medical, financial and other material support in cushioning the effect of the pandemic in the FCT. Under the synergy and collaborative engagement which the FCT Ministerial Advisory Committee on Covid - 19 signifies, organized private sector and other major stakeholders of the FCT including the China Civil Engineering and Construction Company, CCECC which provided an elegant 5 storey-building Training Center at the Idu train facility was outfitted for use as an isolation and treatment center with a holding capacity of about 400 victims, FATE Foundation, Polaris Bank, Julius Berger Nigeria PLC, Binani Group, among others who were all rallied to provide Personal Protective Equipment (PPE), monitoring machines, furniture and air conditioners and power generators at the IDU 400 bed facility, and other necessary supports. The wisdom behind these initiatives was to ensure the virus does not escalate in the city. As the Honourable Minister had explained, “The most dangerous stage of the disease is the one that requires all the expert facilities to be available. So, as much as possible we are using support

from all the other agencies to make sure that wherever people are going to be isolated and treated will be well suitable for that and I can assure you that the external community would be well protected.” This assessment of the situation by the Honourable Minister fueled his decision to recruit a number of frontline health workers and adhoc staff who were well renumerated to operate and ensure the functionality of the centres. Part of the systematic measures adopted to compliance with NCDC/ PTF on Covid-19 guidelines in the FCT necessitated the use of security agencies as was done in other counties in the wake of the virus. To this end, the FCT Administration rallied the security organisations like the Nigerian Police Force, relevant formations of the military, Civil Defence Corps, the Road Safety, the Department of State Services, FCT Department of Road Transport Services as well as all the agencies involved in the provision of services within the FCT to enforce the presidential lockdown directive under the specified term of references. As part of their mandates, all organs of the FCT Security Services and other government agencies agreed and worked out modalities to ensure that all entry and exit points of the FCT and by extension, other satellite towns, are manned by relevant officials to ensure that everybody stays at home or keep to the schedules of movements with exemptions given only to frontline health workers and other essential workers. The FCT administration, spared no efforts in curtailing the rampaging effects of the virus as all relevant departments and groups and initiatives including erection of temporary markets, etc were emplaced. The sensitization and awareness creation programme and also the effective communication strategy of the FCT also played key roles in the enforcement of compliance with Covid-19 control guidelines. One striking success of the FCT initiatives on the Covid-9 was in the distribution of palliatives and household support packages. To a large extent, the handlers of the relief programme in the FCT ensured a fair and wide distribution and for proper monitoring, the administration adopted the use of live supervision and video coverage introducing transparency and accountability in the process. About 600,000 households in the six Area Councils of the FCT benefitted from the exercise. Whilst these efforts were underway, a second wave of COVID-19 hit town. The FCT administration responded proactively to curtail the damage impact of the dreaded second wave of the virus. The period also witnessed the introduction of the Covid-19 vaccines in the country. However, concerned about the trepidation with which people across the country received the news of the arrival of the vaccine in Nigeria, the FCT administration devised a new communication strategy in order for the residents to agree to get vaccinated against the virus. In this regard, toth the Minister and the Honourable Minister of State for the FCT were among the first recipients of the vaccine in the FCT. These are remarkable steps taken in the FCT to protect lives and livelihoods, but cooperation from the residents and stakeholders of the FCT is required to put the Capital on its trajectory of sustainable development. Jamila Musa, Abuja

PAGE 12

Opinion

PEOPLES DAILY, FRIDAY, APRIL 16, 2021

History: A prerequisite to societal survival and development

A Letter to all jambites By Caleb Ijioma

congratulate you all for taking a bold step in continuing your education pursuit. At this junction, I’m sure you have written your o level examinations and have passed all necessary subjects needed to make you admitted into a tertiary institution in Nigeria. Well, just like every other institution we have in Nigeria, a tertiary institution is very complex and have a major role to play in your success as a Human being. I’m happy to write this letter to you because I have tasted the four walls of a higher institution and still threading on so many path. Well, in this letter, I won’t be making mention of courses you should and shouldn’t take up. At this point in time, you should know what you intend to study knowing fully well that some courses presently isn’t relevant in Nigeria. I have been opportuned to discuss with few students who just gained admission into various tertiary institutions, I have also in many times discussed with students who have been in a tertiary institutions for more than a year;some about to graduate and I notice that the whole essence of attending a tertiary institution have been mistaken. As humans, we have different opinions to different subject matters, unknowing to us that some of this opinion’s are wrong,we have been able to digest it and allow them rule and guide us. This then

forms a perspective and we walk in that perspective formed from a wrong opinion that should have been discarded. The mind is a strong engine that determines virtually all our action’s as humans, when we feed our mind with things that should be discarded, it will have an effect definitely, if not now, someday. Before you include that tertiary institution in your jamb form, there are things you need to know. At this junction, I know there are Family members suggesting and making it compulsory for you to pick some tertiary institution as your first,second,third and fourth choice. Well, the first and second choice is very important, not that the other two choices aren’t, but you know,something’s are greater and bigger than another. Firstly, whatever institution you have decided to choose, you should make research and ask questions about that institution. This will help you have little knowledge about the modus operandi of the institution. Its important that you ask students who are studying in that institution questions about the institution, how the system Work, students life and so on. Asking questions and making research gives you an upper hand. Remember, information is power, and that power can liberate you from picking the wrong choice of school. Trust me,some tertiary institutions are not worth the stress.

Secondly and most importantly, I have come to realise that Some tertiary institutions in Nigeria have nothing to offer its students other than the class room knowledge and examinations. I will boldly say that after conducting your research and you figure out that the institution you decide to choose has nothing to offer other than the classroom lectures, you need to have a second thought. I am of the opinion that a tertiary institution must have some student institutions/organizations that can help build students and make them have different experiences in that their career path and even beyond. As a student, you’re not expected to be limited to the knowledge gained in your classrooms, in fact, it is to your own detriment if you choose an institution that has no student organization to give you the necessary knowledge and experience needed in that your career path. Tertiary Institutions like this needs to be avoided. Organisations like JCI,NUCJ, Enactus and the likes are necessary organizations that students are expected to join. The essence of these organizations is to build you and even make you a student professional in that career you’ve chosen. Everything can not be learnt in the confines of a classroom. By joining these organizations, you won’t become a half baked graduate. Attend seminars,trainings, symposiums, conventions. All these are very important. Have this at the back of

By Divramredje Lawrence Efeturi your mind that before they accept you into that job after graduating, they’ll ask “what can you do”. Your result will bring you job opportunities, what you can do will sustain that job. Furthermore, don’t be afraid to fail. Don’t go to the university with the mindset that failure is evil. Try not to fail but when you fail, make the best out of it and rise. A lot of people have ended their lives because they failed. No! Failure doesn’t determine the end of a man. Lastly, you need to understand that the tertiary institution is a very large world, you’ll meet lots of people from different backgrounds with different experiences, orientation and class. It’s important to go to a tertiary institution with an intention of learning and building your future while in school. Right there in the institution, you can find your business partner. Your relationship with the right set of people can change your life forever. These set of people can help you build your lives and can serve as a force to push you to greatness. Learn to maximize every opportunity that comes your way, judiciously make use of your stay on campus. I hope that you’ll read this and digest all this as it will help you choose an institution you won’t regret studying in. Caleb Ijioma is a youth advocate and a journalist, he can best be reached via email at calebijioma@ gmail.com

Patterning Africa after India’s IT Boom

By Anthony Ademiluyi

ndia was in a mess in the early 1990’s due to her decades of the pursuit of socialism which had become a clog in the wheel of her economic growth and development. Manhomman Singh, an Oxford and Cambridge trained economist took up the daunting challenge of re-directing India to the path of prosperity powered by the ideals of a free market economy. He devalued the rupee; privatized state owned enterprises and massively encouraged foreign direct investments. What he did not envisage for was the fact that the country of 1.2 billion people will be the world’s greatest beneficiary of information technology outsourcing. It is the country with the highest number of English speakers worldwide – greater than the United States and United Kingdom combined. The vision of Singh paved the way for the great wealth transfer in the world’s second most populous nation on earth. India is unmatched when it comes to its large pool of skilled and talented human resources. It has 3.1 million skilled graduated added to its workforce annually and it saves western multinationals a great deal of money to hire Indian workers whom they do not even have to physically meet. It costs an average of $50 to $100 an hour to contract the services of a good developer. A competent Indian will be happy to receive $15 an hour for an equally if not a better job. The infrastructure in India is well positioned to take full advantage of the outsourcing trend – a gain of globalization. She boasts of state-of-art telecommunication services, super swift

internet connectivity, submarine cables, massive bandwidth in all the major cities and fibre optic cables. The public policy thrust is geared towards providing stable and attractive information technology policies. IT is regarded as one of the top five priority areas in the country with tax breaks offered to IT firms to attract such services in call centre, date entry, transcription, engineering, software development, finance/accounting, photo editing services and web analytics and the revenue that accrues to the country is estimated at $69 billion annually. India, a hitherto third world nation has been able to pull itself by the bootstraps and lift millions out of the debilitating scourge of dire poverty by tapping into the goldmine of IT outsourcing. It is a well-known fact that the world has transited from the industrial age to that of information. Many African nations are now facing the realities of this without being adequately prepared to respond to it. Natural resources such as gold, cocoa, oil, diamonds etc now have their prices subject to the cruel vagaries of the international market and the ‘dark continent’ is at the receiving end as new alternatives to them have massively cut down their demand leaving the nations impoverished. Information Technology is the fastest way to wealth. Some examples will suffice. It took Mark Zuckerberg, the Chief Executive of Facebook three years to become a dollar denominated billionaire. It would have been two if he had accepted the offer from Rupert Murdoch’s Newscorp to acquire his novel innovation for $1 billion in 2006. Not only is he the world’s youngest self-made billionaire, he is the fastest as his feat is still

so surreal. Jan Kuom and Brian Acton who co-founded whatapp had their acquisition snapped up by facebook for $19.5 billion. Ironically, they sought jobs in the latter and were turned down. The likes of Jerry Yand and David Filo of Yahoo, Larry Page and Sergin Brin of Google, Bill Gates and Paul Allen of Microsoft, Larry Ellison of Oracle etc made their mind boggling fortunes from it in far less time than it took the so called oil barons and natural resources merchants. If we are to solve the perennial crisis of unemployment, IT is the way to go as the opportunities for self-reliance inherent in it is endless and this is the new mantra being sung even in the developed world where many African youths dream of escaping to as the demands of the new age is titled towards self-employment. Africa is plagued by daunting challenges such as the dearth of physical infrastructure, economic/political instability, poor security, lack of in-demand skills by the so called tertiary education graduates, corruption and poor regulation by the government. These challenges have to be sturdily addressed backed by an IT driven policy that would enable the continent tap from the gains of globalization via IT outsourcing and stop being a perpetually dependent continent. Ghana seems to have taken the cue as their leaders are concerned with the drastically falling prices of gold and cocoa – their two major economic mainstays and coupled with the fact that the prices of crude oil have fallen in the global market. The visionary former President John Agyekum Kuffour initiated a partnership project between India and Ghana and invested

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PEOPLES DAILY, FRIDAY, APRIL 16, 2021

$5 million on a youth driven ICT project. It converted offices belonging to the State Housing Corporation for the project which will be sited in all the ten regional capitals. The current President, John Mahama continued the vision when he unveiled a three year plan to build an IT hub at the cost of $10 billion. This project will employ 50,000 people and house a further 25,000. Kenya followed suit by revealing a plan in 2013 to build an African Silicon Valley within the next 20 years at the cost of $14.5 billion. It is instructive to note that 40,000 Kenyans are on Elance – the online service that enables professionals sell themselves and attract a fee for their time. This is a step in the right direction as outsourcing has come to stay and Africa should not be left behind. There should be a vigorous agenda by the respective governments to ensure that we overtake Latin America and Eastern Europe which is now the focus of IT outsourcing as companies want to play India against them to get the best deals. We should transit from being a mere dumping ground to partners in progress. The Japan miracle after the battering as a result of the second world war was possible because of the nationalist sentiments orchestrated by the government which made their citizens come back home after tapping from the American wisdom. In this era, there is no need to even go across the Atlantic. All that is needed is the political will to ensure that African citizens are well positioned to get the best deals from the comfort of their homes so as to avoid the second slavery. Anthony Ademiluyi writes in from Lagos.

common misconception is usually demonstrated towards the study of HISTORY as a discipline by contemporaneous compatriots throughout the stream of academic studies, irrespective of the levels they are in the various institutions. Going by the remarks elicited from the sample study carried out among some target learners, they feel themselves beyond every reasonable doubt less alien in the business and science fields. The question commonly asked is: “of what relevant is History in this contemporary world?” Without stating an argument we can draw a consensus inference that History is the branch of knowledge that deals with the past events of man, country, continent or the world so that the present could be corrected for a transparent tomorrow. Just imagine what the everyday life would be like in a society where no one knew any history, that a society has no knowledge of itself! No wonder that Professor Levi-Strauss asserted that”... those who ignore history condemn themselves to not knowing the present because historical development alone permits us to weigh, and to value in their perspective relations with the element of the present”. A society without history is like a man without memory and self-knowledge and that would be a society in drift, just as Cicero put it that: ‘not to know what took place before you were born is to remain forever a child’. Concrete evidences have proven that even scholars and professionals uphold the view that History is the making of myth and story-telling as a result of their irrational attempts in handling the subject. It has been deciphered that myth is a sacred information of fundamental realities meant to explain the true history of the origins of things and why they happen the way they do. Myths are set down rules for human behaviours, and are such regarded as been bequeathed by the gods themselves, most of whom lived earthly lives as culture founders, hence they lay a divine sanction on their improper use. Let us note that History is rational and scientific in character. This is because it gives answers to questions like:

( what happened? how did it happened? etc ) as science asks alike. This, of course, dissociate historical character as theological writings. The apostles who echo the creed in a drowning crescendo that history rekindles possible conflicts between families, communities and nations do so because of the consequences that might befall them when their past deeds are unveiled. They also do so because they have been jinxed in irrationality and this is antithetical to what history accommodates. Rationality would always make one, thus, to believe that the study of history impacts a sense of solidarity, share the general justification which is attached to all intellectual on socio-political advancement as well as provide valuable mental training and of the mind. It gives the ability to cite an evidence and find out the truth from a conflicting statement. It is only this understanding that could diminish incidence of likely conflicts to the barest minimum. History trains one to weigh evidence in dealing with the common affairs of life. Every responsible father of a family and every adult member of a community needs the willingness and ability to compare an evidence, detects prejudice and falsehood and then draw a correct conclusion. Likely conflicts become unaborted when the led and their leaders lack historical ideology. Consider the 5th May 1789 French Revolution as a sample study. When the Third Estate, which comprised the masses of different professionals, demanded to meet with the First and the Second Estates for a deliberation on how to remedy the socio-political disharmony of France, Louis XIV who was the then monarch was deceived by the bourgeoisie to turn down the demands of the Third Estate. The Third Estate revolted and when the bourgeoisie saw the orthodoxy of the aggression, they stooped to join the queue at the expense of the King. Yet, their demands were met! The detriment incurred by the Monarch was as a result of his lack of historical knowledge of the society that would have enabled him avert the disgrace. We should note that History teaches about the society itself, what it is, how it grows, the way it works, what it has achieved, who are its friends and enemies, what are its standards of conduct and religious

beliefs, the behaviour expected of its citizens and so on. Nigeria’s national and State assemblies are a pack of some politicians who skate on the thin ice of the sea of violence. More than 50% are subterranean scraps; round legs in square holes that have left the comfort of our society only to spew conflicts at the very bottom they have relinquished. These are people who have abandoned the cultural heritage of the nation, and as a result they pursue and sponsor selfish bills that still make us to experience a perilous and economic quagmire. States governors would delay workers’ stipend until a strike action is embarked upon by the workers, yet their demands will be met having done enough havoc to the economy. Do we have to opt for a revolt of any sort before attempting solutions for a speculated impediments? Or we have to learn from the mistakes of our predecessors so as to amend the present? We should enliven our imaginations, brains and thoughts with historic retrospects. We should realise that history is self-revelatory. It familiarizes us with varieties in social forms and cures us from a dreaded morbid. History lays the foundation of a tolerant outlook and enlarged sympathies. Sympathy here means understanding people’s behaviour and appreciating both good and the bad in them instead of judging them from a narrow point of view. It is the subject that can promote sympathies and genuine tolerance because it is the only one subject directly and entirely concerned with the behaviour of human beings. One of the commonest complains some students make is that they feel very inferior whenever their science counterparts designate the technological advancement of the world to themselves. It is pity that those who pride themselves over this are not being reasonable. They should realise that if they were not historians and other liberal professionals life would have been too unorganised, unenjoyable and meaningless. Every students cannot be a scientist and not all students can be good in the arts as well. Each field deserves its praise. Remember that no matter the discipline you

find yourself, you must at a start study its history because it cuts across all parts of every discipline. The one studying Mathematics or Accounting will in part be studying the history of Mathematics or Accounting. The study of History is to modernize and improve on the substandard achievements of the past. History, therefore, becomes a terminal or meeting point in which other fields anchor. It is important we refresh our memory that History gives continuity to societal development. The principle of continuity and the higher principle of development lead to the practical consequences, that is, one of the vital importance for citizens to have a true knowledge of the past and to see it in daylight in order that their influence on the present and future may be exerted in the right directions. The fundamental justification for historical study is that History is necessary. It meets a basic need of man living in a society. Closely knitted is the fact the history is functional in the sense of meeting the need, which the society has to know and understand its relationship with the past and other society cultures. The bottom line is that possibility of extracting from the past, lessons for the present and future, becomes a means of helping humanity of its problems. Therefore the full blown foundation, human solidarity, glory and awareness that a society would seek, cannot be realised without a recourse to the study of history as the prerequisite and livewire to progress. The eurocentric and stereotyped ideas that we do not have history, that is, the past by the colonial masters, must be repudiated and sabotaged. We must develop the spirit of patriotism and the recognition for our country. We can do this if we throw our weights behind the day’s government to right the wrongs now for a better headway; for a better tomorrow Nigeria. If you want to know the past, then, you had better develop a positive attitude towards the study of History. Remember that “ the taste of the pudding lies in the eating”.

due to the uprooting and displacement of locals from the natural environment which they had known all their lives. This sort of displacement may have solved some immediate needs, which often are economic, but the scar on the lives of the local and indigenous people stays forever. Beside, this results in the tipping of the balance in the ecosystem. What is left of the sandy open field where we used to play is now a potpourri of glass, plastics, cellophane and other nonbiodegradable materials which had gathered due to the large volume of run-off water from construction of new settlements. It has become a dump site. Experts in biodiversity and conservation agree on the need to better handle and manage the use of natural resources and our environment. It is glaring that despite the monumental pollution in the Niger Delta, several other places in Nigeria have not been immune from one form of environmental degradation or the other. From the dirty smelly polluted canals in Lagos, erosion ravaged landscape of the South – East, Desertification in the North to the unbridled destruction of floral and fauna in unrestrained, needless, utopian and sometimes half hazard urban development. As a people, we keep destroying relics of our past in quest for what is now. Society does not actually grow in the real sense such that everything of the past is totally erased or destroyed. As I was ruminating over what have become of the serene environment in which I grew up, I now came to understand why those white couples (tourists) were so joyous and elected taking some pictures. Some of those pictures may have ended up in newspapers and magazines in the Western press known for its stereotypic depiction of Africa – A backward continent where nothing works. It is interesting to note that Europe and America had their own time before the industrial revolution when the ecosystem and biodiversity was pristine. Every development comes with its problems and the industrial revolution come with the price of environmental pollution and distortion in the social fabrics. There was massive migration and drift to the sprawling constructions of town and cities and people became less attached to their natural environment which by then was under

attack by the heavy equipment and industrial settlements. The people’s socio – cultural system where dislocated coupled with other congenial and allied health implications. Many industrialized countries have realised the need to preserve nature hence they invest heavily in nature conservation. Many heavily built up cities are creating miniature nature gardens and parks and high raise building are converting the roof tops into gardens. This interest and quest for conservation and biodiversity in the 20th century was a backlash of poor environmental practices during and years after industrialization. There is no doubt that human activities are taking its toll on our planet and to wish it away is to live in delusion. The fact that Lake Chad has shrunk to 10% the original size and that several communities in Nigeria have been devastated by gully erosion in South Eastern Nigeria now stares us in the face, just like the Niger Delta have continued to groan under the pain of heavy pollution due to oil exploration and exploitation. In fact, the world is suffocating in plastics and other non – biodegradable hazardous waste. No policy in this regard is complete without adequately factoring biodiversity and environmental sustainability. Many towns and villages are drowning in refuse due mainly to the quantity and speed of turnover of non – biodegradable materials. It is no longer fashionable and convenience to wrap things in leafs and other materials that naturally get back into the cycle because easy options are often preferable. Unfortunately, the system of waste management is still a long way where it exists. However, even the most technologically advanced nations still find it difficult in managing their wastes despite the amount of money devoted to this regards. The focus now has shifted to the use of organic and bio-degradable materials. This is why those that still have the luxury of still enjoying the natural environment should be grateful to God. Our attitude to our environment is sad. We believe in here and now and whatever happens afterwards does not matter. A number of countries economy thrive on tourism ours is a society that has no culture of preservation, restoration and conservation. Many architectural

masterpieces that have earned the United Nation Educational Scientific Children Organisation (UNESCO) world heritage site status would not have made it if the attitude was constant destruction and ‘modernisation’ of structures. Those structures and features that were unique to Kano, Enugu, Ife, Lagos, Onitsha or Calabar are fast disappearing. We want our cities to look like New York, London or Riyadh. I am afraid that our children and future generation here would need to travel to Europe and other countries to see and feel things that now are taking for granted. This may sound like eternity but with the pace and vigour in destruction of forests and other natural resources, it will be very soon. The Abuja – Kubwa – Zuba motor way gives one a glimpse of the sprawling estates by private developers. The two sides of the ten lane roads from Gwarimpa to Dei Dei have all being taken over by estates most of which are not occupied due to the prohibitive rents. None of these massive estates has enough state for an open air aerobic exercises talk more of recreational facilities like football pitches or sports halls. Consequently, youths have descended on the green Zones on the 10 lane road converting them into football pitches and recreational arenas. Another interesting but regrettable spectacle is that of dead wild and endangered animals that are daily on display for sale as bush meat along the same road just besides the Civil Service Institute. The harm being done to our environment is very monumental and one can only fathom that when one considers the level of depletion in our forest over the years. The quantity of charcoals on display for sales on our major highways will give one a glimpse of the problem at hand. The developed nations have seen and realised the consequences of abuse of the environment in the past and this has spurred them to pursue vigorous conservation, biodiversity and good environmental practices. This does not come easy because it involves attitudinal change by the people. True development lies in living today for a better tomorrow. The future lies in sustainable use of natural resources. Uja is a Research Officer and lives in Abuja.

Divramredje Lawrence Efeturi is a commentator on national issues

Our environment: Living today for tomorrow By Oliver Ejike Uja

rowing up in a village in South – East Nigeria in the seventies was a great fun. I still relish that period of wandering in the woods, gathering wild fruits and playing games in the sand. I still remember one occasion when a four wheel drive pulled up and two white couples I now believe were tourists came down with cameras and started clicking away joyfully. In our childish innocence, we were also happy and started posing for pictures which we neither knew to which use it will be put, nor had any hope of ever seeing. The forest then was full of scents, sites and sound and everyone knew everyone. The atmosphere was just serene. Farming was purely organic although chemical fertilizers and insecticides were already available in limited areas and could only be obtained through the agricultural extension offices. Virtually all materials used then were bio-degradable from baskets to leather bag and food wrappings. The extension officers were making concerted efforts to make the people accept artificial chemical fertilizers, herbicides and insecticides but the apathy and rejection was stiff. Changing an old method of doing things is always difficult and people were not too sure of the effects of those items. However, people embraced the use of these items decades latter and the price spiraled out of reach. And we know that today some of these items are still controversial depending on the divide one belongs – organic versus inorganic. This will be a topic for another day. Whenever I go home today I feel nostalgic of the good old time not because I do not see beautiful structures all around but there is a sense lost and dislocation from the good environment I knew and so cherished. Change and development must come but how it comes and is deployed is what matters. Development predisposes improvement in human lives and living. However, when a perceived development or invention contributes in the lowering of the standard environment and humanity, such becomes questionable since it is tantamount to retrogression. In many parts of the world there are disillusionment, crisis and tension

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News

17,000 receive first jab of AstraZeneca in Enugu – Official

o fewer than 17,000 residents of Enugu have so far received their first jab of AstraZeneca in the ongoing vaccination in the state. Dr George Ugwu, the Executive Secretary of the Enugu State Primary Health Care Development Agency (ENS-PHCDA), made this known to the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) in Enugu on Thursday. NAN reports that the state government on March 8, received 65,400 doses of the vaccine from the National Primary Health Care Development Agency (NPHCDA), Abuja, and vaccination began across the state on March 19. Ugwu explained that the 17,000 given first jabs of the vaccination represented those vaccinated as at 6p.m. on April 14. He said the state has not reached half of the total dose received from the NPHCDA, Abuja and the vaccination was ongoing in each of the designated centres. ”The delay in administering the vaccines was because five councils started late as well as the long Easter holiday break. “We are yet to get to half of the 65,400 doses given to the state from the NPHCDA, Abuja. “The exercise is still very much on for those in the priority lists – health workers and the elderly – to receive their first jabs as well as other members of the public very eager to receive as well. “Once we exhaust half of the dose sent to us; we will stop giving the first jabs. “We will have a pause of vaccination for about eight weeks before giving the second jabs to all those that had received their first jabs to complete their dose. “This is what we have agreed with the NPHCDA, Abuja and our partners. “So, those who got their first jabs will receive the second jabs in less than three months for continued efficacy of the vaccines in their system,” he said. The executive secretary noted that prior to the Easter break and after it the number of those receiving their first jabs had grown in the council areas. “With the daily exponential rise in the number of people coming for their first jabs; within a few days we will get to half of the total dose we have and the exercise will be paused. “However, we are still expecting more doses from the NPHCDA, Abuja to ensure that the entire residents of the state are vaccinated and protected,” he said. He noted “the vaccine is safe and efficacious”, adding that there has not been any reported adverse side effects. The executive secretary lauded Gov. Ifeanyi Ugwuanyi for supporting the COVID-19 vaccination campaign. “Apart from financial and moral assistance to the agency, Gov. Ugwuanyi volunteered himself, to be publicly vaccinated as a critical leader providing direction to residents of the state on the need to receive theirs. NAN

PEOPLES DAILY, FRIDAY, APRIL 16, 2021

No country can survive without steel industry —SON boss

From Mustapha Adamu, Kano

aruk Salim, the Director General, Standard Organization Of Nigeria (SON) has said that no country can survive and make progress without steel industry. He stated this during a one-day stakeholders meeting with steel manufacturing campanies, held in Kano state yesterday. The DG stated that steel industry represents the progress of any country, noting that “no

country survives and make progress without the steel industry. If the steel industry is not competitive the country would not survive.” Salim also eaffirmed the commitment of SON in curtailing the circulation of substandard products in the country. He said the objectives of the meeting was to address the menace of producing substandard steel, which according to him, was a major portion of development in any nation. Salim explained that Nigeria

recently signed a pact on free African trade, hence there was the need to ensure standard of Nigeria’s steel products, aimed at curtailing the menace of building collapse and other challenges associated with the production of substandard steels in the country. “ If our industries are not competitive,then all of you here would not have a business tommorow, this is not good for our country and for everyone. Our responsibility is to protect

Nigerians,” he said. The Director General noted that the agency is focusing on rubbing minds together with the manufacturers geared towards finding lasting solutions to the problems. He appealed to the individual traders to focus on ordering products that are standard, saying “if they sells substandard products which lead to building collapse and other related issues, they would also be held responsible for the damages caused.”

Group trains 20 paralegals on right to education

From:Femi Oyelola, Kaduna

n its efforts to enlighten kaduna State residents on the right to education,a group under the auspices of Legal Defense and Assistance Projects (LEDAP) has organised training for 20 paralegals.

Speaking during the opening ceremony of the training held in kaduna yesterday, the state Coordinator of LEDAP Mr. Michael Aboh explained that his Organisation plays a very key role in the campaign for the right to Education especially girls and child right to education.

He asserted that by virtue of the Universal Basic Education (UBE) Act of 2004, the right to free, compulsory and universal primary and junior secondary education under Section 18 (3) of the 1999 Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria is an enforceable human right.

L-R: National President, Founation for Correction of Moral Decadence ,Dr. Joseph Danley , the awardee and Principal, model junior Secondary School Maitama, Hajia Ahmed Bawa and Alh Surajo Ado Faskar,during the Presentation of Award to Hajia Baxa as the best Principal for the year 2020 in FCT by the Foindation for Morals correction ,recently in Abuja.

NOA to hold Youth Summit in Bauchi T he National Orientation Agency (NOA), says it will hold a Youth Summit in Bauchi State to x-ray issues affecting the youth in the state. Alhaji Nuru Kobi, NOA Director in the state, told the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) on Thursday that the summit will hold on April 20, with over 1,300 youths as participants. The director explained that 300

youths would be physically present during the summit while the rest will join the discussion through the webner link of the agency. He explained that the event was part of NOA’s community engagement, to identify challenges affecting the youths and expose them to opportunities provided by government to enhance their status. Kobi said some of the issues to

be addressed during the summit include youth marginalisation in governance, poverty, unemployment and corruption as well as youth inclusion in politics. The NOA director said the participants would be drawn from the 20 local government areas and 323 electoral wards of Bauchi state. “We would educate the youth to know and appreciate government

efforts on their plight,” he added. According to him, the participants would be sensitised on government policies like the Social Investment Programmes and exposed to national values and ethics, migration, entrepreneurship, and policy making and governance. “We will strictly abide by the COVID-19 protocols during the summit,” he added. (NAN)

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PEOPLES DAILY, FRIDAY, APRIL 16, 2021

Scrapping of LG: NULGE threatens to occupy NASS members homes By Musa Baba Adamu

he Nigeria Union of Local Government Employees (NULGE) on Thursday threatened to occupy the country homes of all Federal lawmakers over the plan to scrap the local government system. The local government workers made the threat in view of a bill before the House of Representatives seeking to abolish the third tier of Government. NULGE National President, Comrade Ambali Olatunji, at a press conference in Enugu, warned that the sponsor of the bill, Hon. Bob Solomon from Rivers State and any lawmaker who shows support to it, would face the wrath of the workers. At the press conference were other national officers of NULGE, including the National Vice President, Southeast, Comrade Patrick Igwe and State Presidents, including that of Enugu, Comrade Kenneth Ugwueze. Adetunji said if the bill was not killed immediately, the workers would in the next few days stage a protest at the National Assembly, after which they would storm the country homes of all members of the parliament. “Our existence is being threatened, we will not sit down and watch. There will be a national protest there at the National Assembly. “They are no longer representing us, they are representing themselves. Bob Emmanuel, who benefited from the local government system has now become so disillusioned that he wants the system scrapped. “He is a member of the Peoples Democratic Party, and that is why we have asked the party to call their son to order. Any person who attempts to kill the LG system is killing his own political future. No lawmaker who is on the side of masses should join the destructive move of Bob Solomon. We shall fight them all,” the workers declared.

Anambra guber: APC holds primaries June 26, sells forms N22.5m By Ikechukwu Okaforadi

he All Progressives Congress (APC) has released schedule of activities for the November 6 governorship election in Anambra state, even as it said the governorship Expression of Interest Form costs N2,500,000, while the Nomination form costs N20,000,000.00. A statement issued yesterday by the APC National Director of Organising, Prof. Al-Mustapha, Ussiju Medaner, said also that female aspirants and physically challenged aspirants are to pay

50% of the prescribed fees for the position. According to the statement, sale of forms commenced at the APC National Secretariat yesterday and will end on Tuesday, 8th June, 2021, while the last day for submission of completed forms and accompanying documents will be at the APC National Secretariat on Tuesday 8th June, 2021. Pointing out that this is in line with the Electoral Act 2010 (as amended), the statement said “In accordance with the provisions of the Electoral Act 2010 (as amended) and the

Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) guidelines, the All Progressives Congress (APC) hereby releases this timetable and schedule of activities for the conduct of the 2021 Governorship Primary Election in Anambra State. “Notice of Election to the State Chapter: Wednesday 14th April, 2021. Sale of Forms (APC National Secretariat): Thursday 15th April – Tuesday 8th June, 2021. Last Day for Submission of Completed Forms and accompanying documents (APC National Secretariat): Tuesday 8th June, 2021.

“Screening of Aspirants: Thursday 10th June, 2021. Publication of claims and objections: Saturday 12th June, 2021. Screening Appeals: Tuesday 15th June, 2021. PRIMARY ELECTION: Saturday 26th June, 2021. Election Appeal: Wednesday 30th June, 2021. “The Governorship Expression of Interest Form cost N2,500,000 while the Nomination form cost N20,000,000.00, totalling N22,500,000. Female Aspirants and Physically Challenged Aspirants are to pay 50% of the prescribed fees for the position.”

Membership registration/revalidation: APC moves to reconcile aggrieved members ahead of national convention By Ikechukwu Okaforadi

he All Progressives Congress (APC) yesterday began moves to reconcile aggrieved members of the party who had issues with its ongoing nationwide membership registration and revalidation exercise, as it inaugurated an eighteen man appeal Committee to receive complaints from party members. Recall that since the party commenced the nationwide membership registration and revalidation exercise, some States, including Kwara, Rivers, among others, have had issues regarding the exercise, even as some party faithful have expressed concerns

that some Governors and other leaders of the party are interested in using the opportunity to delist their opponents at their respective states. Inaugurating the Appeal Committee, the Chairman of the APC Caretaker Extraordinary Convention Planning Committee (CECPC), Mai Mala Buni, who was represented by the National Secretary of the CECPC, John James Akpanudoedehe, warned the Appeal Committee that if the party fails in the nationwide membership registration and revalidation exercise, the proposed national convention will also fail. To this end, Buni charged the committee to be fair to all

complainants, emphasising that the activities of the committee will roboff on the peaceful and transparent conduct of the party’s national convention scheduled for June. He said “This exercise is the foundation for a lot of activities; the delegates, congresses, nominations and, even the National Convention. So we must get it right. Party members must own the processes. The registration exercise must end on a high note.” He further assured party members that the on-going membership registration, revalidation and update exercise was not to oppress or sideline any member out of the party.

“This party is for all Nigerians, therefore we must show not only by words, but by actions that there is no attempt to; exclude, oppress, sideline nor freeze-out anybody in the party. “We trust in your strength of character, your integrity and your capacity to be fair in your dealings to those who approach your committee,” the Chairman said. Buni then directed the appeal Committee to help engender cohesion, build trust and confidence in their assignment. Responding, the Chairman of the committee, Hon. Farouk Adamu, thanked the caretaker committee for finding them worthy of the noble assignment,

while promising to discharge their duty with justice and equity. Members of the committee are Oyo State Governorship aspirant in 2019, Chief Niyi Akintola (SAN), Emperor Chris Baywood, Sen. Khairat Gwadabe, Alh. Misha’u Lawan Didi, Hauwa Grema Mohammed, Sen. Ita Enang, Sen. John Owan Enoh and Hon. Ejike Njeze. Others are Abubakar Mohammed Danjuma, Amb. Jerry Sonny Ugokwe, Amb. Hassan Ardo, Barr. Mary Ekpere, Barr. Fola Vincent, Dabiu Gambari, Alh. Tijani Siaka Alfa and Grace Idakwo and immediate past Deputy National Secretary of the party, Hon. Victor Giadom, who is to serve as Secretary.

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PEOPLES DAILY, FRIDAY, APRIL 16, 2021

POLITICS

Twitter office: Nigeria overtook South Africa by $2.6b FDI under Buhari - APC replies PDP By Ikechukwu Okaforadi

he All Progressives Congress (APC) has replied the opposition Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) criticism over the decision of Twitter to open its Regional office for Africa in Ghana, saying that under the President Muhammadu Buhari administration, Nigeria has overtaken South Africa by $2.6 billion Foreign Direct Investment (FDI). Recall that the PDP had yesterday criticised the ruling APC, saying that the misrule of President Buhari Government has forced Twitter to locate their Africa regional office to Ghana, rather than Nigeria which used to be the biggest economy in Africa under the PDP administration led by Goodluck Jonathan.

However, in a statement issued yesterday by the National Secretary of the APC Caretaker Extraordinary Convention Planning Committee (CECPC), John James Akpanudoedehe, the party said Nigeria, as Africa’s Biggest Economy, remains a top investment destination. The statement said “Flowing from a statement by the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), our response to Twitter’s decision to cite its African operations in Ghana is simple. The decision or rationale of private concerns, particularly businesses on where to cite their operations are their exclusive preserve. It is a no issue! “However, for the PDP that mocks the country and its citizens over what it celebrates as missed “business prospects”, such

political party does not mean well for the country and should definitely not be considered as a governance option. “It is exhausting and depressing highlighting PDP’s ignominious past. The APC will rather consolidate and focus on how Nigeria is finally getting it right under President Muhammadu Buhari.” It asked how come what the PDP termed the “present misrule” did not stop multinational technology companies like Facebook and Google from opening offices in Nigeria, and also did not stop the world’s largest brewer, Anheuser-Busch InBev and multinational food manufacturing giants, Kellogg’s from establishing their multibillion Naira brewery and factory in Nigeria.

APC said “Despite uncertainties over the evolution of the COVID-19 pandemic, Nigeria earned $2.6billion of the global volume of Foreign Direct Investment (FDI), surpassing major competitor South Africa ($2.5b), according to the latest 2020 United Nations Conference on Trade and Development (UNCTAD) Investment Trends Monitor. “Nigeria’s current status as Africa’s largest economy was achieved under the President Buhari-led APC administration and our industrious citizens are the ultimate beneficiaries.” It said Nigeria is doing a lot through the Presidential Enabling Business Environment Council (PEBEC) which was set up by this administration to remove bureaucratic constraints

to doing business in Nigeria and the ongoing implementation of Economic Recovery and Growth Plan (ERGP), pointing out that Nigeria is on the right trajectory and the PDP cannot wish away these solid achievements. “Finally, we use this opportunity to remind Twitter and other frontline social media platforms of their important responsibilities to curb fakenews, disinformation and hate speech. “In the last US presidential election, the proactive roles played by social media operators in checking fake news and divisive rhetoric is a solid pointer to how proper social media usage ultimately benefits society. We expect no less in Nigeria from social media operators”, the statement said.

APC zones 2023 governorship to Enugu East By Christiana Ekpa

he All Progressives Congress (APC) has zoned the 2023 governorship ticket in Enugu State to the Enugu East Senatorial zone. This was announced by the Caretaker Committee Chairman of the Party in the State, Dr. Ben Nwoye. He made the announcement during a meeting between the membership registration and revalidation Committee for Enugu State and stakeholders of the party. The Committee was at the meeting with its chairman, Senator Jonathan Zwingina. Also present was the Director-General of Voice of Nigeria, VON, Mr. Osita Okechukwu. Nwoye said in line with the existing zoning arrangement in the State, the APC as a party that believes in equity and justice “has zoned the governorship to Enugu East Senatorial zone.” His declaration is coming at a time the people of the State are divided over the zoning arrangement, with a serving member of the National Assembly, Senator Chuka Utazi saying recently that Enugu North would still produce Governor Ifeanyi Ugwuanyi’s successor.

L-R: Director of Communication and Program, African Democratic Congress (ADC), Barr. Ifenla Oligbinde, Diaspora Leader, (ADC), Stephen Adeoye; Deputy National Chairman Diaspora Engagement, Hon. Kenneth Gbandi and National Youth Leader, (ADC), Barr. Maurice Ebam, during the ADC media briefing on the Party activities positioning the party to win future elections held recently in Abuja. Photo: Photo’ Justin Imo-owo

2023 Presidency: Ukandu suggests ways Igbo can rule Nigeria By Musa Baba Adamu

chieftain of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) and the immediate past Commissioner of Lands and Survey in Abia State, Suleiman Ukandu, has tasked the people of South East zone on building bridges across boards in the quest to take a shot at the nation’s presidency. Ukandu posited that for Ndigbo to actualize their quest in 2023, they must go beyond ethnicity and convince every section of the country that they have the capacity to foster proper national integration. The former Abia Commissioner who spoke during an interview with journalists in Umuahia on Thursday, called on all ethnic

nationalities to rally round the Igbo nation to occupy the nation’s number one seat with regard to justice and equity. According to him, “Nigeria is an entity that encompasses not the igbos alone. We have numerous tribes that made up Nigeria. In-as-much as we know that leadership should be purely based on capacity, capability and pragmatism, it should not be purely based on tribe, religion or where one come from. It should be based on the capacity of who should be leaders themselves. But you see, the configuration of the country as presently constituted has made it imperative that there should be balance of political justice”. Continuing, Ukandu said “If the south-east geopolitical zone will

rise up to convince Nigerians that they will make a better leadership and carry every segment of the country along and foster proper national integration, they(igbos) are on advantage of being allowed for the 2023 election. Because, one, right from the inception of the democratic government in 1999, other ethnic groups have controlled the country. “The Northern Nigeria, principally the North west geopolitical zone has had a shot in the Presidency for 12 good years representing the monolithic north, except they said they are not monolithic. You know, whatever that come to the north is north, because they are monolithic. The south-west has controlled power for eight years and have been Vice President of the country for

another eight years. The South-South had also controlled Nigeria for six good years, but the south-east has not taken a shot or even come close to second citizenship of the country, “the renowned lawyer added. “I still believe justice, equity and fairness demand that Nigeria need to balance the issue of political justice. I will advise that if the people of the South east can galvanize the whole Nigeria, to repose that trust in them, then I will advise Nigeria to balance the issue of political justice. And when you said Southeast Presidency, it’s wrong. It’s Nigeria President of South East extraction. The south-east should go and get a person that can have the capacity of fostering proper national integration, “he concluded.

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PEOPLES DAILY, FRIDAY, APRIL 16, 2021

Buhari yet to act on tripartite Committee recommendations - Omo-Agege says By Musa Baba Adamu

he Deputy President of the Senate, Ovie OmoAgege, yesterday revealed that President Muhammadu Buhari is yet to sit and act on the recommendations of the tripartite Committee comprising of party, legislature and the executive which was recently set up to deepen harmony in the polity. Fielding questions from journalists yesterday in Abuja, Omo-Agege, who is a member of the committee, said a lot of recommendations has been made by the tripartite committee, but are not in the public domain and cannot be discussed. Explaining how far the Committee has gone in its assignment, the Deputy President of the Senate said “That meeting is continuous. The bulk of the issues we discussed there and decisions taken are basically recommendations to Mr President, until he sits and acts on them, I am not at liberty to discuss those recommendations. “Be that as it may, the Committee was put in place to bring cohesion between the executive arm, the legislative arm and the party. We had a couple of meetings so far so good.” Also responding to questions from journalists, the Governor of Kogi State, Yahaya Bello, said many governors and Nigerians are willing to join APC because it is a party where things are happening, adding that the party is moving Nigeria forward and waxing strong. He said “I have a Committee that is called Mobilization of Youths, Women and People Living with Disabilities, mobilizing them to join our party. As much as we are mobilizing youths, women and people living with disabilities, we are equally mobilizing members of other political parties, including Governors. “Remember, there are others that are youthful in body and those that are youthful in hearts, so we are bringing them into the party. You will see them in numbers. I told you that it is only one last Governor will be the last one to join our party and you can see that everybody is coming into the party because this is where things are happening. “This is the party that is moving the country forward. That is why you see us strong and we are waxing stronger and moving forward in unison”, he said.

POLITICS

Why PDP must zone 2023 presidential tickets to South - Okupe By Christiana Ekpa

former aide of ex-President Goodluck Jonathan, Doyin Okupe, has warned the Peoples Democratic Party (PDD) against choosing a Northern candidate for the 2023 presidential election. Okupe in a Twitter thread on Thursday said if a Northern president emerges as President after Buhari’s tenure, then it is possible for the north to rule Nigeria forever. His tweets read: “If PDP picks a Northern candidate for the 2023 elections and because the Nigerian

electorates are still largely parochial, that candidate wins at the general elections, then the north will rule for another 8 years, making it 16 years at a stretch. “If this type of “clever political manoeuvering,” is employed to alternate northern candidates between political parties, then it is possible for the north to rule the country in perpetuity.” Okupe further proposed the adoption of a policy concession in order to satisfy the South West region for a South West president to emerge. He said “There is no doubt that what I am proposing is a form of

political concession. But this is not strange in our political system and history. “To assuage the SW in 1999 after Abiola’s unfortunate death, a national consensus was adopted to ensure the emergence of a southwest President.” He urged the PDP to adopt zoning the presidency to the South and not be insensitive to the plight of the Southerners who are yet to produce an elected President. Okupe stressed that the peaceful coexistence of Nigeria can only be achieved on fairness and equity. “Therefore for the purpose of

equity, fairness and continued unity of the country, our party the PDP must categorically zone the presidency to the south. “To do otherwise is to exploit political crass opportunism which will be insensitive to the current feeling among most self respecting southerners in the country. “It is an undeniable fact that cannot be ignored that a zone in the south is yet to produce an elected president. “The unity and continued peaceful coexistence of our nation can only be predicated on the time tested principle of equity, fairness and justice,” Okupe tweeted.

Minister of Science and Technology Dr. Ogbonnaya Onu (3rd right), Vice Chancellor University of Nigeria, Nsukka Prof. Charles Igwe (2nd right), Director-General Sheda Science and Technology Complex Abuja Prof. Paul Onyenekwe (right), Principal Investigator Laboratory of Industrial Electronics Power Devices and New Energy Systems University of Nigeria Nsukka Engr. Prof. Emenike Ejiogu (2nd left), Acting Director Energy Research Centre, University of Nigeria Nsukka Dr. Izuchukwu Francis (left), during the Hon. Minister Facility Tour to the Refuse Derived Fuel Powered 100KVA Electricity Generating Plant At the University of Nigeria, Nsukka Enugu State.

PDP hiring crowd to stage manage defection from APC - Akwa Ibom chapter By Ikechukwu Okaforadi

he All Progressives Congress (APC), Akwa Ibom State chapter, has alleged that the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has concluded plans to hire mammoth crowd to feign defection from the APC to the PDP, thereby giving the impression that the APC in the State has imploded. In a statement issued yesterday by the Publicity Secretary of APC Caretaker Committee in Akwa Ibom State, Nkereuwem Enyongekere, the state Chapter of the party said a truckload of fresh brooms have been procured by the agents of PDP in the state to be burnt at a

charade ceremony to misinform the party faithful. He said “Information from highly credible sources has revealed that any moment from now a conspiracy may be hatched by the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in Akwa Ibom State to stage a charade of a mammoth crowd of persons supposedly members of the All Progressives Congress (APC) defecting from the party to the PDP. “Organizers of the planned charade are still searching for a suitable venue intended to be a state-wide event and aimed at deceiving the ignorant and gullible public that Akwa Ibom APC has imploded sequel to the alleged leadership tussle and

rumoured division of the party in the state.” The statement claimed that a tipper load of freshlymade brooms arrived from Ikot Ekpene to the residence of a PDP Chieftain in Akpa Ube, Aka Offot community in Uyo Local Government, saying that a mountain-like heap of the broom is to be set on fire to illustrate the “demise” of APC in the state. He said the source further revealed that a former member of the National Assembly, hitherto a member of APC and now a Chieftain of the political pressure group that goes by the name; Akwa Ibom Democratic Forum (ADF) is linked and closely associated with the planned

charade. “APC hereby wishes to put its members and the general public on NOTICE of this acts of desperation by a party/ government that has failed in all ramifications to deliver on its promises and expectations of the people. “We advise our party men and women sympathetic to the misdirection offered by the leadership of ADF not to allow themselves to be led astray but to remain resolute with the party, unwavering in their support and believe in the leadership of the party and the prospects it offers to deliver Akwa Ibom from the current misgovernance of the PDP”, he said.

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NEWS

UNN to hold maiden edition cultural carnival

he University of Nigeria Nsukka (UNN) has announced a two-day Cultural Carnival aimed at unifying the various cultural associations in the institution. The Director, Institute of Africa Studies, Prof. Florence Orabueze disclosed this on Thursday in Nsukka while briefing newsmen on the event. Orabueze described the event as a unifying programme aimed at reawakening the consciousness of the various peoples of Nigeria on their rich cultural heritage. She said that the carnival which was the first of its kind in the institution would hold on April 23. She said that the carnival would promote the use of native languages in the country. The director said that most Nigerians, especially, the younger generation were ignorant of their culture and traditions. The don said that violent crimes, armed robbery and other social vices were abhorrent in every culture and tradition. According to her, lack of awareness in one’s cultural heritage and traditions could lead to some societal vices including insecurity, suicide, cybercrime, kidnap, killing and others. “One of the objectives of this carnival is to promote Nigerian languages and traditions for our children to know that we have rich cultural heritage,” she said. Orabueze mentioned the official partners of the organisers of the carnival to include UNN Business School, Enugu Campus and Nigerian Breweries Plc. She said that the opening ceremony of the event slated for April 22, would feature a debate in native languages by students. The director said that the carnival would also feature cultural caravan, cultural dance competition and traditional wrestling. Others are cultural fashion parade and masquerades entertainment from different states of the federation. “Students’ associations in UNN from different states of the federation have been mobilised to showcase the culture of their various states. This event will help to reconnect them to their roots and cultural backgrounds,” she said. Orabueze said that former First Lady of Enugu State, Mrs Clara Chime and the Anglican Archbishop of Enugu Diocese, Bishop Emmanuel Chukwuma would grace the occasion. The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the theme of the event is ‘Cultural Revival in a Multi-ethnic Society’. (NAN)

PEOPLES DAILY, FRIDAY, APRIL 16, 2021

Scores of inmates, guards injured in Edo Custodial Centre riot By Osaigbovomwan Iguobaro

he Nigerian Correctional Service (NCS) says some inmates and prisons guards were injured during a riot by inmates at Custodial Centre of the Service in Ubiaja, Esan South East Local Government Area of Edo State. Spokesman of the NCS, Edo State Command, Mr. Aminu Suleman in a statement, said the attempted jail break foiled by a joint, was caused by some hardened criminals in the facility on Wednesday. He said that there was no death of escape of any inmate from custody. Suleiman who issued the

statement on behalf of the Controller of Corrections Edo State Command, Mr. Felix Lawrence, said some hardened criminals among the inmates instigated others by refusing to return to their cells on been opened out as it is the routine practice, having heard of what happened at Oko, Benin, Edo State and Owerri, Delta State to effect jail break for possible escape, amid gunfire. The NCS spokesman, explained that the development, led to violence, damaging of cells, the admin blocks, medical office and boring of holes on the perimeter fence in a bid to facilitate their escape from custody. He said the inmates

were eventually repelled and overpowered due to reenforcement of armed personnel of the Nigerian Correctional Service, the Police Force, Nigerian Army, Nigerian Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) and the Department of State Security Service (DSS) who were deployed to the Custodial center to ensure calm and full control of the situation. Part of the statement reads: “Investigation later revealed that some hardened criminals among the inmates instigated others to riot having heard of what happened at Oko, Benin and Owerri to effect jail break for possible escape. This led to violence, damaging of cells, the administrative blocks, medical

office and boring of holes on the perimeter fence in a bid to facilitate their escape from custody. They were eventually repelled and overpowered”. He also said “the situation is fully under control with the inmates returned to their cells. No life was lost but some Staff and inmates sustained various degrees of injuries and no inmate escaped from custody”. The statement stated that the Controller who was at the Custodial Centre on Thursday, thanked the various sister security agencies for the effective synergy and prompt response and assures the public of peace and calm of the various Custodial centers in Edo State Command.

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PEOPLES DAILY, FRIDAY, APRIL 16, 2021

Power Minister regrets nationwide outages/shortages, gives reasons By Etuka Sunday

he Ministry of Power is not unaware of the current power outages/ shortages bedeviling many parts of the country, a statement by the Special Assistant, Media and Communications to the Minister of Power, Aaron Artimas has said. According to statement, the Power Ministry said, the problem was caused by the breakdown of some National Integrated Power Plants supplying electricity to the national grid. The statement said, “the plants are namely, Sapele, Afam,Olonrunsogo, Omotosho, Ibom, Egbin, Alaoji and Ihovbor. The Jebba Power Plant was shut down for annual maintenance. “Seven other integrated Power plants, namely Geregu, Sepele, Omotosho, Gbarain, Omuku, Paras and Alaoji are experiencing gas constraints while the Shiroro plant has water management problems. “This unfortunate development has drastically affected Power generation, thus effectively minimizing the national grid”, the statement said. In view of this, it said, the

Hon. Minister of Power Engr Sale Mamman regrets this unfortunate situation and offers his sincere apology to all affected Nigerians on the inconveniences the Power shortages are causing.

It quoted the minister to have assured that the ministry through the appropriate Agencies was working assiduously to rectify the technical problems affecting

the plants as well as resolving the gas issues to the others. It said, Engr Sale Mamman further assures that the national grid would be restored to its previous historic distribution

peak of about 5,600MW of electricity achieved early this year, so as to relief Nigerians from the current harsh climatic conditions and restore full economic activities.

L-R : Nigerian Ambassador to France, Dr Modupe Irele, Chief of the Naval Staff, Vice Admiral Awwal Gambo and Director Navy MoD, Mr Kayode Julius being briefed by Commanding Officer of Nigerian Navy’s newest hydrographic survey vessel NNS LANA,Captain Abdullateef Mahmud during the Flag Transfer Ceremony of the vessel l, yrsterday in Saint Nazaire France. Photo: DINFO

FG approves activation of New SIM Registration with mandatory NIN By Etuka Sunday

The Acting Head of Imo-Abia Operations of National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA), Mr Chidi Ogundu (R) and another official of the agency inspect a business premise recently damaged by windstorm at Umuejem community in Owerri West Council Area of Imo on Thursday (15/4/21).

UniAbuja Governing Council appoints Prof Anyaoku as varsity Librarian By Usman Shaibu

he Governing Council of the University of Abuja has approved the appointment of Professor Ebele Nkiru Anyaoku as the Librarian of the University. A statement signed by the University Registrar, Mal. Yahya I. Mohammed, stated that the approval was given at the 59th Extra-Ordinary Meeting of the University Governing Council, held on Monday 12th April 2021 following the recommendation of the Council Selection Board for the appointment of University Librarian. The appointment which took

effect from 12th April 2021, is for a single term of five (5) years. Professor Ebele Nkiru Anyaoku was born on 2nd September 1968 in Ojoto, Idemili South LGA of Anambra state. She attended Queen’s School Enugu between 1980 and 1985. Anyaoku holds a Bachelor of Arts Degree in Library Science/English from the University of Nigeria, Nsukka (UNN) in 1991, Master’s degree in Library, Archival and Information Studies from University of Ibadan in 1998, and a PhD in Library and Information Science from Nnamdi Azikiwe University, Awka, in 2013. She started her academic career as an Assistant Librarian

in Nnamdi Azikiwe University in 1993 and rose through the ranks to become a professor in 2019. Professor Anyaoku was the pioneer Librarian of PAMO University of Medical Sciences, Port Harcourt between 2018-2019, while on sabbatical leave. Professor Anyaoku is a member of many professional bodies, including the Nigerian Library Association (NLA). She also participated in electronic library resource training Research in Health programme offered under the leadership of United Nations World Health Organisation in partnership with MLA/Librarians Without Borders (USA), ITOCA

(Italy) She has several publications in both national and international journals, chapters in books, technical reports in addition to several paper presented at conferences both home and abroad. The new University Librarian is a Grant Recipient of 2019MLA Librarians without Boarders Elsevier Foundation/ Research4Life International Award. She is the Institutional Representative for Nnamdi Azikiwe University for the Research4Life/ HINARI programme. Professor Anyaoku is married with children.

he Federal Government has approved the activation of New SIM Registration with Mandatory NIN in line with the Revised National Digital Identity Policy for SIM Card Registration. The Nigerian Communications Act (NCA) 2003, Section 23(a), specifies the role of the Minister to include the formulation, determination and monitoring of the general policy for the communications sector. The Technical Assistant, Information Technology) to the Minister of Communications and Digital Economy, Dr. Femi Adeluyi in a statement said, in line with this, on behalf of President Muhammadu Buhari, the Minister of Communications and Digital Economy, Dr. Isa Ali Ibrahim Pantami coordinated and led the development of a Revised National Digital Identity Policy for SIM Card Registration in collaboration with all other stakeholders. An earlier Policy was approved on the 4th of February 2020, while the Revised Policy was developed in early March 2021. The final amendments to the revised Policy

based on the directives of Mr President to make the use of NIN mandatory for all SIM registration were completed yesterday, 14th of April, 2021. Prior to that, the key aspects of the draft Policy were presented to the stakeholders at the 4th Review Meeting of the Ministerial Task Force (MTF) on the NIN-SIM registration which held on Friday, 26th of February, 2021. Key stakeholders and members of the MTF who joined the Honourable Minister at the meeting included the EVC/CEO of the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC), DG/CEO of the National Identity Management Commission (NIMC), DG/CEO of the National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA), Comptroller-General of the Nigeria Immigration Service (NIS) and the Chairman of the Association of Licensed Telecommunications Operators of Nigeria (ALTON). Others included the NCC Executive Commissioners for Technical Services and Stakeholder Management, MD/CEOs of MTN, Airtel, EMTS (9Mobile), NTEL, Spectranet and SMILE, as well as the COO of Glo.

Dr. Pantami also presented the Revised Policy to His Excellency, President Muhammadu Buhari on Friday, 26th of March, 2021. Mr President made further improvements and endorsed it for implementation. Mr President also commended the Minister for his commitment in carrying out the responsibility of developing the digital economy sector, including championing the NINSIM registration process. The Policy includes Guidelines on New SIM Acquisition and Activation, SIM Replacement, New SIM Activation for Corporates and Internet-ofThings/Machine-to-Machine (IoT/M2M), amongst others. The possession of a National Identity number will be a prerequisite for each of these categories. For the Corporate registration, institutions will be required to appoint a Telecoms Master (at the minimum of an Executive Management level) to provide the operational Primary NIN representation. The Telecoms Master will also be responsible to ensuring that the users provide their NINs to serve as a Secondary NIN. For IoT/M2M activations,

SIM security protocols would be implemented on the SIM profile to ensure that SIMs can only be used for point to point data services specific to the URL they are working with. All other services will be barred. In the event that a data only service is particular to individual use (eg home car tracking, WiFi, MiFi services, etc), the standard NIN registration process will be followed. A Telecoms Master will also be required for Corporates requiring IoT/M2M activations. The full details of the requirements for each class of service will be made available in due course. Significant progress has been made in the NIN registration process across the country. Nonetheless, the Federal Government is committed to supporting all Nigerians and legal residents to obtain a NIN. The biometric verification process has been slower than anticipated, owing largely to the non-adherence of many previous SIM biometric capture processes to the NIMC standards. The Revised Policy will ensure that operators conform to the required standards for biometric capture. The Guidelines in the

Policy have been painstakingly developed and while they are thorough, it should be noted that they have been developed that way in National interest since the SIM is essentially a national resource. Citizens and legal residents are encouraged to bear with the government as the process has been developed in the best interest of the country. The implementation of the Policy will commence on Monday, 19th of April 2021. The issuance of New SIMs and other suspended activities will resume on the same date, as long as verification is done and the guidelines are fully adhered to. The Honourable Minister has also directed NCC and NIMC to ensure that the provisions of the Policy are strictly followed by all operators and subscribers. Dr. Pantami wishes to thank Nigerians for their patience and compliance with the Federal Government’s directive on the NIN-SIM registration exercise. He reiterated government’s commitment to continually taking decisions aimed at easing the pains of the citizens with regard to issues related to NIN and SIM registration.

PEOPLES DAILY, FRIDAY, APRIL 16, 2021

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PEOPLES DAILY, FRIDAY, APRIL 16, 2021

Business

SEC to engage Fintech players, sanctions operators frustrating e-Dividend By Etuka Sunday

he Securities and Exchange Commission (NERC) has stated that it would continue to engage players in the Fintech space and support them to operate lawfully in a bid to ensure the delivery of safe products and services without stifling innovation. Mr. Lamido Yuguda who stated this at a post Capital Market Committee Meeting press briefing webinar held Thursday, said the recent Circular was issued by the Commission in its desire to ensure that only fit and proper persons continue to operate in the capital market. According to Yuguda, “It became imperative for the Commission to issue this notice for the protection of investors and to preserve the sanctity of the Nigerian Capital Market as only registered capital market operators are permitted to intermediate in the Nigerian Capital Market and only through approved channels. “We do not want any unregulated entity to participate in the market because if there are issues it becomes very difficult to resolve. “The Commission recognizes the impact of FinTechs on capital market activities, and wishes to assure the public that we remain accommodative of this development. We shall continue to engage players and support them to operate lawfully. Our aim is to ensure the delivery of safe products and services without stifling innovation, I therefore encourage FinTech firms to approach the Commission for due registration and desist from operating illegally. “In the same vein, registered CMOs are advised to refrain from providing any form of support to unregistered entities operating unlawfully within our market, as such action would not be condoned. Furthermore, we urge CMOs to improve on their level of compliance, timeliness and correctness of disclosures and other filings made to the Commission”. The DG disclosed that the Commission is also mindful of developments in the crypto asset space adding that following initial warnings to the public, the SEC undertook a process to further understand this class of assets,

including setting up Fintech and Blockchain Committees and releasing a “Statement on Digital Assets and their Classification and Treatment” in September, 2020. “Subsequently the CBN directed its regulated institutions to close bank accounts of crypto exchanges to protect the financial system from abuse. We are in discussions with the CBN on how to better understand and regulate the market, given the need to take advantage of the emerging innovations while protecting investors and the financial system” he stated. On e-dividend, the SEC Boss said that as the Commission works towards resolving any legacy issues with unclaimed dividends, all stakeholders are implored to comply with all directives of the Commission in this regard, as defaulters would be sanctioned appropriately. “There is no reason why there will be unclaimed dividends for new investors or newly-listed companies adding every investor should be promptly paid his/her dividends upon declaration and payment.

“The Commission has observed that certain Capital Market Operators (CMOs) frustrate the e-dividend mandate process. We have observed that the growth in the number of mandated accounts has been on the decline for some time. The Capital market community has directed its e-Dividend Committee to engage with the Committee of Heads of Banking Operations to encourage better cooperation from banks as we tackle the challenges of unclaimed dividends”. Yuguda said the Commission has exposed new rules on implementation of the e-dividend mandate and treatment of unclaimed dividends adding that the Commission is monitoring compliance and will not hesitate to sanction erring operators. He said the past year was challenging for the Nigerian economy, largely due to the effects of the pandemic. Despite a positive GDP growth of 1.87% recorded in the first quarter, negative growths in the second and third quarters led to a recession, with the economy finally closing the year

at a negative GDP growth rate of -1.92%. On the state of the capital market, the DG said in a pattern similar to many other markets across the globe, the Nigerian capital market suffered a major decline at the beginning of the second quarter of 2020 as a result of the announcement of a lockdown. “However, the market recovered thereafter, ending the year 2020 with positive growth. So far this year, market performance has been mixed, but with a generally positive outlook, especially as economic activities resume fully and COVID-19 vaccination gains wider acceptance. “We have continued to support initiatives towards ameliorating the impact of the pandemic, especially through our Capital Market Support Committee on Covid-19. The Commission is at the mid-point of the ten-year implementation journey of the Capital Market Master Plan (CMMP)and has commenced a review to update the assumptions and vision elements of the Plan

to align with current realities” Yuguda said. He disclosed that between the last meeting and now, the Commission has released a number of new rules to ensure proper regulation and development of our market. These include rules on warehousing and collateral management, crowdfunding, fund management products and nominee companies. It is important that market operators are familiar with these rules and other rules and regulations of the Commission. Yuguda said the Commission recently reintroduced periodic renewal of registration by Capital Market Operators saying that the rationale is to have reliable data on all active CMOs and strengthen their supervision and monitoring. The renewal process is electronic and the deadline for 2021 renewal is 30th April, 2021. The DG reiterated that the Commission takes seriously the level of compliance, timeliness and correctness of disclosures made by CMOs as henceforth, appropriate sanctions will be imposed for non-compliance.

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Park and Pay scheme hits Abuja streets 7 years after ‘stoppage’ By Stanley Onyekwere

s part of its reinvigorated traffic management system, the Federal Capital Territory Administration (FCTA) has concluded plans to bring back the controversial park and pay scheme otherwise called onstreet parking policy, to streets in the nation’s capital city. Making this disclosure during a media briefing, the Acting

Secretary FCT Transportation Secretariat, Usman Yahaya said reintroducing the on-street parking policy was to bring about sanity in the city. Recall that the park and pay system became a controversial issue about seven years years ago, before a court judgment stopped the FCT Administration from further collecting fees from residents for on and off the street parking zones within the

metropolis. However, while announcing the return of the scheme, Yahaya explained that the on-street parking policy, which will be managed by four companies as its operators will commence in May, 2021. He said, “on-street parking management was suspended in 2014 as a result of an FCT High Court ruling that declared the operation illegal because it was

not specifically mentioned in the 2005 FCT Road Transport Regulation. “The scheme was riddled with so much complexities, the operators were accused of many ill acts, but we have resolved the issues, so in May this year the scheme will kick off. “In the past seven years, the FCT Administration had embarked on various measures aimed at addressing the concerns

raised by the Court and the public with regards to the scheme. “The FCT Administration in collaboration with its legal team produced FCT Parking Regulations 2019 to amend the parking section of 2005 FCT Road Transport Regulations”. He added that the four operators will cover the whole Federal Capital City (FCC), which will be divided into districts for proper exercise.

From left: Representative of the Minister of Transportation, Bashir Jamo; Managing Director of Lagos Metropolitan Area Transport Authority (LAMATA), Mrs Abimbola Akinajo; Deputy Governor of Lagos State, Dr Obafemi Hamzat; Gov. Babajide Sanwo-Olu; and Chairman of the House Committee on Transportation, Lagos House of Assembly, Mr Temitope Adewale, during the inauguration of the construction of Red Line Rail Project at Ikeja in Lagos on Thursday (15/4/21).

From left: Special Assistant to National Vice President of Nigerian Union of Local Government Employees (NULGE), South-East Chapter, Chief Mike Ogbodo; National Vice President for South-East of NULGE, Comrade Patrick Igwe; and National President of NULGE, Comrade Ambali Olatunji, during a news conference to protest the plan to delist Local Government from the 1999 Constitution of Nigeria, in Enugu on Thursday (15/4/21).

Oil edges up to fresh 4 weeks high as demand outlook improves

Climate change: ARDS takes smart agriculture initiative to rural farmers

il prices edged up to fresh four-week highs on Thursday as positive U.S. economic data boosted stock markets and on higher demand forecasts from the International Energy Agency (IEA) and OPEC as countries start to recover from the COVID-19 pandemic. After rising almost 5% on Wednesday, Brent futures rose 42 cents, or 0.6%, on Thursday to $67.00 a barrel by 2:00 p.m. EDT (1800 GMT), while U.S. West Texas Intermediate (WTI) crude rose 38 cents, or 0.6%, to $63.53. That put both contracts on track to increase for a fourth straight day for the first time since February and also put both

on track to settle at their highest since March 17 for a second day in a row. “Oil is beginning to reconnect with strong equities with further assistance from a weakening dollar,” said Jim Ritterbusch, president of Ritterbusch and Associates in Galena, Illinois. U.S. retail sales rebounded more than expected in March as Americans received additional pandemic relief checks and as COVID-19 vaccinations allowed broader economic reengagement. That data and upbeat earnings from several companies helped push the S&P 500 (.SPX) and the Dow Jones (.DJI) indexes to

record highs, bolstering hopes of a broader economic rebound. The U.S. dollar was on track to fall to a four-week low against a basket of currencies. A weaker dollar makes oil cheaper for holders of other currencies, which traders said helps support crude prices. The IEA and the Organization of the Petroleum Exporting Countries this week made upward revisions to their global oil demand growth forecasts for 2021 to 5.7 million barrels per day (bpd) and 5.95 million bpd respectively. U.S. crude inventories, meanwhile, fell 5.9 million barrels last week, government

data showed on Wednesday, with East Coast crude stocks falling to a record low. Supply discipline and rebounding economies are set to give oil a chance to break out of the recent range, analysts at Goldman Sachs said in a report. “We remain positive on Brent oil forecasting $80 (per barrel in the third quarter) on a near-term demand recovery and supply discipline,” the bank said. Despite all the bullish economic news, some energy traders noted oil price gains will likely be capped by OPEC’s plans to ease production cuts starting next month. OPEC and its allies, including

Russia, a group known as OPEC+, agreed to bring back about 2 million barrels per day (bpd) of production over the next three months. The United States, meanwhile, imposed a broad array of sanctions on Russia to punish it for alleged interference in the 2020 U.S. election, cyberhacking, bullying Ukraine and other “malign” acts. And Royal Dutch Shell played down the risk that its oil and gas assets would become stranded as it prepares to reduce greenhouse gas emissions in the coming decades, noting that the majority of its reserves will be produced by 2050. (Reuters)

By Stanley Onyekwere

n furtherance of effort towards boosting food production, the FCT Agriculture and Rural Develoment Secretariat (ARDS), has taken awareness on Climate Smart Agriculture (CSA) to farmers, especially those in rural areas of Abuja, the nation’s capital city. Our correspondent reports that farmers in the Territory were sensitised on adaption and building of “Resilient Agricultural and Food Security Systems’’. According to the Acting Secretary of ARDS, Ibe Chukwuemeka, the resilient

agricultural and food security systems would mitigate effects of climate change and reduce Green House Gas (GHG) emissions from agricultural activities. Chukwuemeka spoke at the launch of the awareness campaign on CSA at the Palace of the Sa’peyi of Garki, Abuja, on Wednesday. He explained that the issue of climate change had become a global phenomenon which was exacerbated by poor agricultural practices – burning of fossil fuels and cutting down forests among others. He added that those practices add enormous amounts of greenhouse gases to the

atmosphere. The ARDS boss noted that the concept of the climate smart agriculture which the FCT administration was promoting aimed at enhancing the integration of agricultural development and climate responsiveness toward increasing food production. “It is on this regard that the FCT administration directed that this sensitsation and awareness campaign be taken to all the 17 Chiefdoms of the FCT. “This will enable the administration to educate the farmers and the general public on the adaptation and building of Resilient Agricultural and

Food Security Systems, as well as the reduction of Green House Gas (GHG) emissions from Agricultural activities”, he stated. He however, disclosed that the Department of Forestry had produced a multilingual handbook on Climate Change Adaption and Mitigation Measures in Agriculture. Similarly, the Director, Forestry, Mrs Caroline Opara, stressed that it was imperative that farmers in the territory be equipped and updated with modern farming methods aimed at environmental sustainability in order to increase output. Opara revealed that in 2020,

five persons were arrested and prosecuted for forestry encroachment in some Areas Councils in the FCT, while two others were arrested in 2021. In his remarks, Sa’peyi of Garki, Alhaji Usman Nga’kupi, advised the Department of forestry to be proactive in addressing forestry encroachment in the Territory. Nga’kupi also urged the FCT agriculture Secretariat to establish “Forestry Guard’’ to curtail encroachment in the Territory. The monarch therefore cautioned his subjects to always shun practices that could impact negatively on the environment and farming.

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PEOPLES DAILY, FRIDAY, APRIL 16, 2021

international_peoplesdailyng@yahoo.com

US imposes sanctions on Russia over cyber-attacks

he US has announced sanctions against Russia in response to what it says are cyber-attacks and other hostile acts. The measures, which target dozens of Russian entities and officials, aim to deter “Russia’s harmful foreign activities”, the White House said. The statement says Russian intelligence was behind last year’s massive “SolarWinds” hack, and accuses Moscow of interference in the 2020 election. Russia denies all the allegations and says it will respond in kind. The sanctions announced on Thursday are detailed in an executive order signed by President Joe Biden. They come at a tense time for relations between the two countries. Last month the US targeted seven Russian officials and more than a dozen government entities over the poisoning of Kremlin critic Alexei Navalny. Russia says it was not involved. In a call with Russian President Vladimir Putin on Tuesday, Mr Biden vowed to defend US national interests “firmly”, while proposing a meeting with Mr Putin to find areas where the two countries could work together. What does the Biden administration say? According to Thursday’s White House statement, the new sanctions show the US “will impose costs in a strategic and economically impactful manner on Russia” if it continues its “destabilizing international action”. It reaffirms the administration’s view that the Russian government is behind cyber-attacks and has been trying to “undermine the conduct of free and fair democratic elections” in the US and allied nations. It specifically blames the Russia’s foreign intelligence service, the SVR, for the SolarWinds attack, which gave cybercriminals access to 18,000 government and private computer networks. Last December then US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo said he believed Russia

Joe Biden promised a tougher approach to Russia

Mr Putin is said to be considering Mr Biden’s offer of a summit was behind the SolarWinds attack. The latest sanctions target 32 entities and officials accused of trying to influence the 2020 US presidential election “and other acts of disinformation”. Ten diplomats, including alleged spies, are being expelled from the US. The executive order also bars US financial institutions from purchasing roubledenominated bonds from June. The Biden administration is trying to tread a careful line. US officials want to

impose costs for a range of unacceptable behaviour from Moscow and deter further acts. They also want to signal they are going to take a tougher line than the Trump administration. But they also say they do not want to see a downward spiral in relations. The message they have is that their response is “resolute but proportionate”. The SolarWinds cyber-espionage campaign was a primary concern. To maximise the impact they have combined

addressed audience. He said under the strong leadership of the Communist Party of China (CPC) Central Committee with Comrade Xi Jinping at its core, and with support pouring in from across the country, the people of Hubei and Wuhan stood united as one and fought a tenacious battle with the virus. Their enormous sacrifice not only made China’s victory over COVID-19 possible, but also contributed significantly to the global COVID response, he remarked. Hubei’s heroic fight against COVID-19 is an epitome of China’s response efforts, and more importantly, an embodiment of the unique character and strength of the Chinese nation, the minister noted, adding that having emerged from the trying times of the pandemic, the ancient land of Hubei will show still greater vigor and vitality. He said as a responsible major country, China has fought the pandemic for the common good, not just for China itself; China has pursued shared prosperity, not just its own development. He vowed that China will uphold solidarity and mutual assistance as it works with other countries to prevail over

the coronavirus, uphold openness and cooperation as it works with other countries to promote world economic recovery, and uphold multilateralism as it works with other countries to build a community with a shared future. Ying Yong, Secretary of the Hubei Provincial Committee of the CPC, and Wang Zhonglin, Secretary of the Wuhan Municipal Committee of the CPC made presentations at the event. Tourism, catering and transport industries were hit hardest in Wuhan, capital of Hubei, amid the pandemic. Last August, Hubei Province launched a promotional tourism event and saw massive tourists flocking in from across the country. The 44 scenic spots that had joined the event received a total of 21 million visits, up 27.5 percent from the same period in 2019. Last year, the total tourists reception and general tourism revenue of Wuhan recovered over 80 percent of those in 2019. The city’s catering is also picking up. In the first two months of this year, 11 of the 20 catering enterprises with an annual income of over 100 million yuan ($15 million) in Wuhan saw

response to this with sanctions over election interference and other issues. Diplomatic expulsions and sanctions against individuals will largely be shrugged off by Moscow as expected. The financial sanctions regarding Russian sovereign debt are a step-up though. The US has also published a huge amount of detail about Russian intelligence activities ranging from front companies involved in spreading disinformation to Russian tech companies allegedly supporting its intelligence services. The hope will be that this also makes it harder for the Russians to operate. But past experience suggests all of this is unlikely to deter the Kremlin. What is the reaction from Moscow? Shortly after the sanctions were announced, Russia’s foreign ministry called them “hostile steps which dangerously raise the temperature of confrontation”. “Such aggressive conduct will of course get a decisive response,” the statement added. The US ambassador has been called to the foreign ministry. The EU, Nato and the UK have all issued statements in support of the US measures. Why are things so bad between Russia and the US? In his first foreign policy speech in February, Mr Biden made it clear he planned to stand up to Russia. “The days of the United States rolling over in the face of Russia’s aggressive actions… are over,” he said. The statement was in a stark contrast to the stance adopted by Mr Biden’s predecessor, Donald Trump, who rarely criticised Mr Putin. In a report last month, US intelligence agencies concluded the Russian president had probably directed online efforts to help Donald Trump win a second term as US president. The US has also warned Russia against aggressive actions in Ukraine. Russia is beefing up its military presence in the border area. Source: BBC

Special promotion event held by China’s Foreign Ministry to honor heroic Hubei Province

By Ji Peijuan, Song Yiran, People’s Daily special promotion event for Hubei, the hardest hit Chinese province by COVID-19, was held by the country’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs on Monday, to introduce the strong resilience of the province amid the pandemic, showcase its robust recovery, and build for it a new bridge of foreign cooperation. Themed “Heroic Hubei: Reborn for New Glories,” the special promotion event was the first promotion event in China for a provincial-level region held by the ministry since outburst of the pandemic. It was joined by around 500 people, including diplomatic envoys from 155 countries, representatives of 21 international organizations to China, as well as representatives from Chinese and foreign business circles. A series of delicious local food and drinks were displayed at the event, such as hot dry noodles of Wuhan, rice wine of Xiaogan, scented tea of Xiangyang, lotus root drink of Jingzhou and Wuchang bream. Chinese State Councilor and Foreign Minister Wang Yi attended the event and

a growth of over 10 percent in their revenue compared with that in the same period of 2019. French Ambassador to China Laurent Bili said at the event that currently there are over 30 French auto enterprises investing in Hubei. He hoped that the promotion event would further drive the enthusiasm of foreign investors to invest in Wuhan. Brazilian Ambassador to China Paulo Estivallet de Mesquita recalled the touching stories of China and Brazil fighting together against COVID-19. He said Wuhan’s victory against the virus is inspiring all people in winning the war against the pandemic. Colombian Ambassador to China Luis Diego Monsalve said that Wuhan’s rapid work resumption has set a role model for the world and is worth learning for Colombia. Oita, Japan is the earliest sister city of Wuhan. The mayor of Japanese city Kiichiro Sato sent a video message to the event, saying the experience of mutual assistance firmed his confidence to pass on the two cities’ friendship. Oita and Wuhan will share development opportunities and further enhance cooperation, he said.

PEOPLES DAILY, FRIDAY, APRIL 16, 2021

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Bans, boats and bailiffs: how Chebba FC are tackling Tunisia football boss Jary

unisia’s Football Federation (FTF) and its president Wadie Jary have knowingly misled sport’s highest legal body, the Court of Arbitration for Sport (Cas), a club at the centre of a controversial suspension has alleged. CS Chebba FC, who were suspended in October by the FTF, maintain that the latter has filed a misleading translation to Cas in order to ensure that its sanction is not overturned. Having finished eighth in its debut Ligue 1 season in 2020, the club was suspended for one year and relegated to the fourth division last October - officially for failing to register on time for the 2020-21 season. After Cas refused Chebba’s request for a stay of execution regarding their ban on 30 November, in a preliminary ruling ahead of the new Tunisian season, riots broke out in the small Mediterranean city. With a sense of injustice running high, protesters set fire to streets and threw stones at the police, who replied with tear gas. “Jary didn’t just punish me, he punished a club, a whole town, the youth of Chebba,” CS Chebba FC President Tawfik Mkacher told BBC Sport Africa. In May, Cas will definitively rule on a case that has split Tunisian football. If sport’s highest court agrees with Chebba’s viewpoint regarding the alleged mistranslation, Jary - as the FTF’s leading representative - and the body’s general secretary, who filed the claim, could find themselves facing a Fifa investigation into a possible breach of its ethics codes. Chebba have also filed a criminal complaint against Jary. Jary did not address the allegation by Chebba when asked by BBC Sport Africa, but the new Confederation of African Football (Caf) Executive Committee member has denied any wrongdoing during his nine years in charge of the FTF. Why were Chebba suspended? Chebba insist that their suspension, which was decided by the FTF’s executive board on 17 October 2020, was politically motivated. They say the suspension was in fact punishment for statements made by Mkacher, the club’s president, in early 2020. Mkacher had publicly alleged a lack of transparency in the FTF’s financial management on several occasions, had called for an independent audit of the FTF and had repeatedly clashed with Jary. “You cannot criticise the FTF in Tunisia,” said Mkacher. “Since 14 January [2011, the day President Zine al-Abidine Ben Ali was forced into exile], you can criticise the president of the republic, the head of the government, the ministers, anyone you want - except Wadie Jary.” “Today, we have a dictator for sport. We cannot carry on like this.” “I read the [2018 report on the FTF’s financial affairs], saw misdemeanours beyond the realm of the imaginable and suggested the FTF should be audited. Since that day, we’ve been at loggerheads.” Mkacher says his club has been sanctioned on seven different occasions by the FTF, with none of its appeals yet heard. On 12 October, both Mkacher and Chebba’s general secretary were suspended for two years (also appealed) before the FTF both suspended and demoted the club five days later. The decisions also sparked a furious reaction in Chebba, where the mayor resigned in protest, a general strike ensued and fans blocked roads into the city as they set up barricades and torched tyres. “The demonstrations started after I was banned by the FTF but Jary, instead of calming things, then ordered the sanctions of 17 October,” said Mkacher. “Chebba is a small seaside resort. It had never seen a general strike until then. “In private, every [club] president is behind Chebba because what happened to us could happen to any of them - but they dare not speak publicly.” In one of the more unusual reactions, 300 club members - ranging from junior players to staff and accompanying families - threatened to emigrate, boarded fishing boats and headed for Italy. Singing songs on board ships bedecked in

Chebba fans have demonstrated in Tunis in protest at their team’s one-year suspension

Chebba fans burned tyres and blocked a road into their city last year in protest at the team’s suspension Chebba’s green colours, all were turned back by that… Jary requested him to authenticate this coast guards after reaching international waters. translation.” ‘Fraud, falsification and perjury’ “The bailiff was with us when Sediri On 9 February 2021, Chebba lodged a apologised,” said Mkacher. criminal complaint against Jary, FTF General Like the FTF, Mkacher has submitted his Secretary Wajdi Awadi and translator Anwar allegation to Cas. Sediri with a court in Tunis, alleging fraud, The BBC has asked Jary, Awadi and Sediri falsification of documents and perjury. for comment but received no response by the According to this complaint, seen by the time of publication. BBC, the club alleges the FTF deliberately The origins of Mkacher’s complaints mistranslated its Chebba verdict of 17 October Chebba first filed a criminal complaint originally written in Arabic - into French for Cas. against Jary in a Tunisian court in November The crux of the dispute centres on one word - 2020. “suspension” - which was translated into French Communications director Moncef Lahmar not as “suspension” but as “mise en inactivité”, detailed a host of accusations such as breach which means “being placed on inactive status”. of trust and abuse of position, largely basing The distinction may appear minor but his allegations on an administrative and fiscal it is all-important because according to the report of the FTF carried out by a branch of FTF statutes, a club’s suspension constitutes Tunisia’s finance ministry in late 2018. a punishment that can only be imposed by a The ministry’s 214-page report, seen by the General Assembly. BBC, listed a number of alleged irregularities in Having not called a General Assembly, the the FTF, including numerous double payments FTF did not have the statutory power - the club to various employees and suppliers, the nonargues - to suspend Chebba. declaration and non-payment of taxes as well as (The decision to place a club on inactive a failure to keep proper accounts. status - primarily meant to help a club facing Amidst the multiple accusations which difficulties put its affairs in order without Lahmar brought to the attention of Tunisia’s endangering its current status - can be taken Public Prosecutor are allegations of double by the FTF’s executive board without any such payments for players’ air tickets, the national assembly.) team’s hotel stays, medical goods and, among Chebba took the step of having the original others, some FTF employees’ salaries. FTF decision in Arabic re-translated into French The report also alleged that the FTF deducted by three government-certified translators, tax at source when paying some employees who all used the word “suspension” in their and suppliers between 2013-16 but had failed translations (and not “mise en inactivité”). to declare this amount - some $315,000 In November, Mkacher visited Sediri, (£230,000) - to the relevant tax authorities (for the translator who had stamped the French which it was later fined). translation filed to Cas by the FTF’s Awadi. “Violations committed in the management of In the presence of a court bailiff, whose official federation documents are considered de record of the conversation the BBC has read, facto acts punishable by criminal prosecution,” Sediri re-translated the decision and this time the report stated in its conclusion. used the word “suspension”. Since the FTF is partly funded by the Chebba also allege in their criminal government, the matter is of public interest complaint that Sediri “confessed… in the in Tunisia with the report stating that Jary is presence of a court bailiff that Awadi had responsible for the management of the FTF’s presented him with a document which had funds. [already] been translated and had informed him Under Tunisian law, in case of a serious

statutory violation by a sports association, its executive board is dismissed and its president held personally responsible (before the dossier is then passed on to the Public Prosecutor). Lahmar’s criminal complaint was the fifth against Jary that the public prosecutor received last year, with no follow-up yet commissioned. The issue of alleged tax evasion by the FTF was also raised in a complaint by a nongovernmental organisation called I-Watch, affiliated to Transparency International, in June 2020. I-Watch’s main complaint was alleged tax evasion of some $300,000 by the FTF in 2016 when the body brought sportswear from its sponsor into Tunisia. “Despite the denial of tax exemption by the Ministry [of Finance], the FTF acquired the tax exemption through twisted measures,” Tunisia’s secretary of the treasury wrote in November 2018. Jary failed to directly address the matter when asked by the BBC but issued a blanket denial of all allegations against him. Could Jary be in trouble with Fifa? Football’s world governing body is already aware of several allegations against Jary’s management of the FTF after Tunisia’s then sports minister outlined concerns to Fifa General Secretary Fatma Samoura in October 2018, a month after the governmental report. The FTF board, including its head Jary, had - then Sports Minister Majdouline Cherni wrote - “failed in their duties and obligations by violating the country’s internal laws, the statutes, regulations and ethical code of Fifa as well as the Olympic charter”. “Fifa requested the FTF’s position on the allegations and a response was sent to (the) then sports minister, clarifying that several of the allegations involved governance matters that were being handled in accordance with Fifa’s regulations,” a Fifa spokesperson told BBC Sport Africa. In late February, Fifa conducted a financial audit of the FTF. Meanwhile, Fifa’s Ethics Committee has received complaints against the FTF, although a spokesperson said it could not comment on “whether or not investigations are under way”. It remains to be seen what impact, if any, this mistranslation allegation by Chebba - fighting to return to a league it took the club 60 years to reach - will have. After the club complained about Jary in October to Tunisia’s National Olympic Committee, the body banned him for four years, stating he had “breached national and international Olympic ethics codes”. The Olympic body said it would forward any complaints - which “do not fall under our jurisdiction” - against Jary to both the International Olympic Committee and Fifa. Yet both the latter and Caf have taken little notice of the Olympic ban, deeming it external interference (outlawed by Fifa) in the FTF’s running. In January, Jary was adjudged by Caf’s Governance Committee to have no ethical issues in his past serious enough to prevent him from running for a place on its Executive Committee. Some say he should have been investigated for allegedly infringing Fifa and FTF statutes regarding the duty of neutrality when he appeared to support the candidacy of then-Prime Minister Youssef Chahed for the presidency of Tunisia by accompanying him on campaigning trips in 2019. Pictured sitting next to Chahed on at least one rally, Jary was put forward by Chahed’s political party last year to become a “head of government”. “Jary is a politician,” claimed Mkacher. “He called me to ask me to support Chahed. For him, the federation is money and politics.” The BBC sent more than 30 questions covering a range of topics - to Jary. “I categorically and radically deny all the allegations and accusations subject to your questions,” the 48-year-old responded by email. On 6 May, Cas will assess the dispute involving the small coastal city club and the might of the FTF, and possibly steer the administration of Tunisian football in a different direction with its conclusions. Source: BBC

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Internet brings prosperity to fishing village in E China

By He Cong, Yao Xueqing, People’s Daily

iu Liu raised her mobile phone and put on a headset, trying to present local sceneries and customs with a long take. “Welcome to my livestream show. This is Yanhu village, Fangxiang Township, Hanjiang District of Yangzhou, Jiangsu Province. On the west bank of Shaobo Lake, our village has three famous local specialties: dried shrimps, prickly waterlilies and water chestnuts. The two-hour livestream show received over 1,000 views and sold 1,850 yuan ($283) of farm produce. Liu Liu graduated from Yangzhou University last year and returned to her hometown to start her own business - a livestream marketing group consisting of a dozen of her fellow villagers. The business earned them over 800,000 yuan in 2020. Liu Liu’s story is just an epitome of the efforts made by hundreds of millions of Chinese people to build their country and a moderately prosperous society in all respects. Yanhu is a fishing village that was once in a debt of 200,000 yuan. In 2007, the village initiated a project to encourage its residents to live onshore. Ten years later, it kicked off another project of “aquafarms for lake.” As of the end of 2019, the last fisherman moved onshore. Thanks to a rural tourism campaign launched in Yangzhou two years ago, Yanhu village became a hot tourist destination for its splendid lakeside sceneries and delicious food. However, the COVID-19 epidemic that broke out earlier last year threw the villagers, who had just tasted the joy of success, in dark clouds. To relieve the predicament, Liu Debao, Party head of the village resorted to online marketing, and invited experts to teach the villagers who were totally inexperienced. “The older generations abandoned their fishnets and moved onshore from the lake, and the young generation is going further, moving from the shore to the internet,” said the Party head, explaining what inspired him to do so. Assisted by teachers from Yangzhou Institute of Technology, the village opened social media accounts and online stores, and established a culture and tourism company. It also has a livestream marketing team that teaches how to cook local dishes and sells local specialties. Liu Liu and her partners made full preparation before starting their first ever livestream show. However, the show didn’t meet expectations. “We were simply repeating our scripts all the time, and only attracted 15 followers and sold 100 yuan of commodities,” Liu Liu told the People’s Daily. To improve the situation, the 24-year-old and her partners decided to tell the stories of local fishermen, who come from various parts of China, and introduce their unique ways of production and life on the show. The strategy was proved to be successful soon, and led to hot sales of the local specialties of Yanhu village. For instance, villager Liu Deyu, whose duck eggs were once unsalable, sold over 100,000 eggs on a livestream show. Seeing the performance, local farmers are rushing to send their farm produce to Liu Liu and her team. “We once purchased products from over 100 households, and raised the purchasing price of dried shrimps from 200 yuan to 120 yuan per kilogram, to offer more dividends of e-commerce to the villagers,” Liu Liu said. There are also fishermen who sent handmade sachets and bamboo crafts to her for consignment sales. Through internet, the tourism of Yanhu village once again prospered. The B&B rooms of Liu Liu’s family were all booked half a month before the 3-day Qingming Festival holiday at the beginning of this month. “We have received 50,000 visits this year, and the annual tourism revenue is expected to reach 16 million yuan,” Liu Debao. Establishing tea houses, book stores, B&Bs, and maker classrooms, the village now offers services related to team building, education tourism, and meetings. The village is now engaged in multiple businesses of rural tourism and bringing a prosperous life to its residents.

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PEOPLES DAILY, FRIDAY, APRIL 16, 2021

China to raise proportion of middle-income earners By Xu Peiyu, People’s Daily Overseas Edition hina’s consumption has been on a continuous rise in recent years, and its consumption structure is also being optimized. Last year, the country’s total retail sales of consumer goods reached 39.2 trillion yuan ($6 trillion), and final consumption contributed 54.3 percent to China’s GDP. As a result, China maintained its position as the second largest consumption market of the world. New business forms such as online shopping and influencer marketing experienced rapid development. In 2020, a total of over 24 million livestream shows were aired on e-commerce platforms; online sales of national entity bucked the trend and grew 14.8 percent; the express delivery industry handled 31.2 percent more parcels than it did a year ago. China has become the world’s largest market of online retailing for eight consecutive years. The robust recovery of China’s consumption, despite the severe impacts from COVID-19, showcased the strong resilience and huge development potential of the Chinese market. As a major force of consumption, the middle-income group is a pillar of economy. At present, China has 400 million middleincome earners that account for around 30 percent of its population. In developed countries, the distribution of household income is always in an “olive shape” that is sharp at both ends and plump in the middle. In other words, middle-income

group usually accounts for 60 percent to 70 percent of the population in developed countries. Such a structure is considered healthy and good for economic and social development. In contrast, China still has a long way to go to expand the size of its middle-income group. Vice Minister of Commerce Qian Keming said that with 1.4 billion people, China boasts a super large market and huge development potential. In the next 15 years, the number of Chinese middleincome earners is expected to reach 800 million, which will generate robust momentum for consumption upgrading and bright prospects. According to China’s 14th Five-Year Plan, China will work to increase the income for graduates of universities and vocational schools, skilled workers and migrant workers in the next five years. Experts believe that it’s both possible and necessary to include them in the middleincome group. Graduates of universities and vocational schools come in huge size and are well educated and skillful, which makes them possible to become middleincome earners. “Most people from this group, with their degree of education and competence, will not work simple and repetitive jobs, so it’s possible that they become middle-income earners,” Su Hainan, a contract research fellow with China Association for Labor Studies, told People’s Daily during an interview. According to the latest statistics from the Ministry of Human Resources and Social Security (MOHRSS), China has

over 200 million skilled workers, who take 26 percent of its total jobs, up from 20 percent a few years ago. More than 50 million of them are highly skilled workers. In recent years, skilled workers are in a short supply in China, and their income keeps rising. The MOHRSS recently issued a guideline, encouraging enterprises to institute annual salary system and offer special awards for skilled talents, especially highly skilled ones. “Migrant workers are a major part of China’s workforce, many of whom are also well educated and skillful, and are able to work complicated and innovative jobs,” Su said. Last year, the number of migrant workers in China reached 280 million, including 170 million who worked outof-town. The average monthly income of them stood at 4,072 yuan. Many of them are getting close to the threshold of middle income if calculated in terms of household. “To make a part of migrant workers middle-income earners is necessary for narrowing rural-urban income gap, improving the competence of workforce and accelerating rural vitalization, and it’s also feasible to do that,” Su noted. As the income of these major groups rises in the future, the size of China’s middle-income group will be further expanded, turning the country’s household income distribution into the “olive shape.” By that time, China’s consumption vitality will have been further activated, and the country will also release more dividends to the world.

Industrial parks of Hainan FTP register revenue of over 466.5 billion yuan in 2020 By Zhao Peng, People’s Daily

Cao

Wenxuan,

ainan Free Trade Port (FTP) in south China’s Hainan province, an FTP featuring high-level openingup and high-quality development, released a set of high-profile statistics as it comes near its one-year anniversary. As of the end of 2020, 38,200 enterprises had registered in 11 major industrial parks of the FTP. They reported total revenue of over 466.5 billion yuan ($ 71.34 billion) last year, up 80 percent year on year. The tax revenue of the FTP rose 12 percent from a year ago, hitting 39.5 billion yuan. Hainan Wallkingdon Glass Industry Co., Ltd. is a glass deep processing enterprises. In a newly built plant of the enterprise in the FTP’s Yangpu Economic Development Zone, a new production line was about to be completed. It was expected to be put into operation in June this year. “Although the production line has just taken form, it has received orders that would keep it busy through the rest of the year,” said Li Changteng, general manager of the company. Several years ago, Wallkingdon exclusively introduced a glass painting patent technology from an overseas enterprise, to apply which it must establish a new production line. However, its original plant in Danzhou, southwest Hainan province, had no space for an extra production line. Therefore, the company decided to build a new plant in the Yangpu Economic Development Zone, where it may enjoy a

number of favorable policies. The Yangpu Economic Development Zone imposes zero tariff on some imported raw materials and equipment for encouraged industries, and exempts import duties on products made by imported raw and auxiliary materials that generate added value of no less than 30 percent. “Such tax reduction has saved us at least 20 percent of our cost,” Li said. As the local government actively implements the policies of the Hainan FTP, companies like Wallkingdon have embraced faster transformation and enjoyed greater benefits. By upgrading technologies, Wallkingdon has become a star exporter. Since last year, the company has signed export contracts with the Abu Dhabi international Airport and the Mashreq Bank in the United Arab Emirates, as well as the Bahrain International Airport located in Bahrain. The favorable policies of the Hainan FTP are gradually becoming a driver for the transformation and upgrading of Hainan enterprises. Zhou Junping, an official with the Yangpu Economic Development Zone, considers cutting tariffs a powerful policy for attracting companies. Over 20 projects in food, high technology, bonded repairing, and tourism consumer goods manufacturing sectors have landed in the economic development zone, Zhou said. It is estimated that by the end of March, five companies in Hainan have applied to set up e-records for cutting tax on raw and auxiliary materials, which helped them

reduce 99.31 million yuan of import tax during the customs clearance for products worth of 890 million yuan. The rapid development of the industrial parks is a result of their efforts to improve business environment. Located in Haikou, capital city of Hainan province, the Haikou National Hi-tech Industrial Development Zone has made a major move that encourages its officials and cadres to provide services and assistance for enterprises. Now, 53 officials and cadres from middle management and above with the management committee of the development zone are assigned to serve 96 companies and 128 projects. What they do not only trivial matters such as helping enterprises with registration, stamp carving, and construction site coordination, but also important businesses such as application, certification and approval of projects. Thanks to these efforts, the Haikou National Hi-tech Industrial Development Zone has significantly made it easier for companies to do business, with its business environment ranking the fourth among all 96 candidates in Haikou last year. In 2020, 1,935 companies were registered in the industrial park, up 426 percent from a year ago. This year, the government of Hainan has allocated 26.1 billion yuan to construct and improve infrastructure and supporting facilities in its industrial parks, and will continuously strengthen its investment on education, healthcare, housing, and entertainment.

ENVIRONMENT

PEOPLES DAILY, FRIDAY, APRIL 16, 2021

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Speedy passage of Climate Change Bill will address challenges - Ikeazor By Mashe Umaru Gwamna

he Minister of State for Environment, Sharon Ikeazor, has appealed to the National Assembly to speed up action on passing the Bill on Climate Change into law will go a long way in addressing climate change challenges in the country. Ikeazor made the disclosure yesterday at the opening of the National Council on Environment (NCE) yesterday in Abuja . She said,already the bill has passed second reading on the floor of the House. Ikeazor said this has become necessary to have a legal instrument that would address the myriads of climate change actions and challenges in the

country. Declaring the three-day Council open, the Minister applauded the resilience of the critical stakeholders during this trying period of Covid-19 pandemic. “Your participation in this event is a testimony to your unwavering faith in our collective resolve to reverse all adversities in the sector and sustainably manage our environment in the face of the multiple concerns exacerbated by the novel Covid-19 pandemic.” She said the theme of the meeting, “Managing Emerging Environmental challenges: Need for Strategic Approach to Sustainable Development in Covid-19 era and beyond”, was strategically chosen to underscore the realities of global

health challenges occasioned by the pandemic and the need to tackle the attendant issues to ameliorate the environmental and developmental consequences that may confront the nation if we fail to act now. “This, therefore, underscores the crucial nature of this meeting. As a sector, the need for us to deliberate on the increasing concerns with a view to generating actionable policy framework and measures to guide our actions towards addressing these emerging concerns is uppermost. This is why we are here.” She charged the participants to engage their various experiences, expertise and ingenuity during the three-day event towards finding lasting solutions to the

multifaceted environmental challenges confronting the nation that include biodiversity loss, climate change and Covid-19 pandemic. In his welcoming address,the Permanent Secretary in the Federal Ministry of Environment, Abel Enitan, stated that the meeting was previously scheduled to hold in Kano towards the end of last year, but could not be due to the second wave of Covid-19 pandemic. Enitan said that was why the Council had to be postponed and subsequently repackaged to accommodate the virtual option in a bid to ensure strict compliance with Covid-19 public health and safety protocols. “As a result of the inability of this meeting to accommodate

the various memoranda from all stakeholders, the ministry has carefully selected 45 memoranda with broad relevance to specific situations and circumstances of members. In his goodwill message on behalf of the Senate Committee on Environment, Senator Michael Nnachi called for the involvement of more non-governmental organisations in the ministry’s activities as most of its activities are grassroots oriented that require a lot of mobilisation and enlightenment. He said the Senate is very much aware of the lean envelope of the Ministry despite its enormous responsibilities, and therefore assured that positive reviews are being made to facilitate and boost its funding windows.

Oyo closes dumpsites, bans waste collectors from collecting money from clients

he Oyo State Government yesterday prohibited private sector operators (PSP) on waste collection from collecting fees from their clients. Commissioner for Environment and Natural Resources, Dr Lateef Oyeleke, who announced this in a statement in Ibadan, the state capital, also said that all the dump sites in Ibadan, such as Lapite, Aba-Eku and Ajakanga, had been closed with immediate effect. Oyeleke said that this was part of the new solid waste management policy introduced by the state government to ensure safer environment. According to him, the new solid waste architecture is aimed at focusing on attaining an all-round sustainable environment that will improve the social wellbeing of the people of the state. Commissioner for Environment and Natural Resources, Dr Lateef Oyeleke, who announced this in a statement in Ibadan, the state capital, also said that all the dump sites in Ibadan, such as Lapite, Aba-Eku and Ajakanga, had been closed with immediate effect. Oyeleke said that this was part of the new solid waste management policy introduced by the state government to ensure safer environment. According to him, the new solid waste architecture is aimed at focusing on attaining an all-round sustainable environment that will improve the social wellbeing of the people of the state. All households, facility owners, private, commercial industries, religious houses and other institutions have been advised not to make any form of payment to their PSP operators,” he stated. The commissioner said that government had appointed revenue consultants who would be serving bills to all clients, while payments would be made through designated banks, either manually or electronically. He warned that any payment made

to any PSP was at payers’ risk. Oyeleke also warned that anyone caught dumping refuse in the above-named dump sites would be prosecuted. He directed all PSP operators to make use of only Awotan landfill, Apete in Ido Local Government Area, which had been provided by government. The commissioner implored residents of the state, particularly those in Ibadan, to desist from dumping wastes on the road median, drainages, rivers and other open spaces so as to avert outbreak of diseases and flooding.

R-L: Minister of Education, Mallam Adamu Adamu, National President, Academic Staff Union of Polytechnics (ASUP) Comrade Anderson Eziebe, Vice President ASUP, Mohammed Gbate, Secretary General , Comrade Sunday Shawmah and the Union’s publicity Secretary, Comrade Abdullahi Yahwa, during the Union’s meeting with the Minister on the ASUP ongoing strike action, on tuesday in Abuja. Photo: Justin Imo-owo

African presidents, global leaders support climate change adaptation action for continent

hat looks like a historic and united show of solidarity for a continent that contributes only 5% to global emissions, more than 30 heads of state and global leaders committed to prioritise actions that help African countries adapt to the impacts of climate change and “build forward better.” Africa now faces the dual onslaught of climate change – currently estimated at between $7 billion and $15 billion each year – and Covid-19, which has claimed 114,000 lives. The African Development Bank (AfDB) expects that the impact of climate change on the continent could rise to $50 billion each year by 2040, with a further 3% decline each year in GDP by 2050. Speaking on Tuesday, April 6, 2021 during a virtual Leaders’ Dialogue convened by the AfDB, the Global Centre on Adaptation and the Africa Adaptation Initiative, more than 30 heads of state and global leaders rallied behind the bold new Africa Adaptation Acceleration Programme. The programme’s objective is to mobilise $25 billion to accelerate climate change adaptation actions across Africa.

President Félix-Antoine Tshisekedi Tshilombo of the Democratic Republic of Congo, and African Union Chairperson, invited his fellow leaders to “revisit our climate ambitions and accelerate the implementation of our actions planned under our national priorities. To do this we will need to focus on actions to adapt to the impacts of climate change, these include naturebased solutions, energy transition, enhanced transparency framework, technology transfer and climate finance.” The Africa Adaptation Acceleration Programme is built to address the impacts of Covid-19, climate change, and the continent’s worst recession in 25 years. Therefore, Tuesday’s unprecedented show of support for the financing of African adaptation is so significant. According to Ban Ki-moon, the 8th Secretary-General of the United Nations and the Chair of the Global Center on Adaptation, “The Covid-19 pandemic is eroding recent progress in building climate resilience and leaving countries and communities more vulnerable to future shocks. Africa must

make up for lost ground and lost time. Climate change did not stop because of Covid-19, and neither should the urgent task of preparing humanity to live with the multiple effects of a warming planet.” President Ali Bongo Ondimba of Gabon, and Chair of the African Union-led Africa Adaptation Initiative, spoke of Gabon’s record in emission reductions. He said that Gabon is one of the few countries in the world that is carbon positive. “We have to insist that equal attention be paid to climate adaptation and mitigation in climate finance. Africa calls on the developed nations to shoulder the historic responsibility and to join the program to accelerate the adaptation in Africa,” President Bongo said. AfDB President Dr. Akinwumi A. Adesina, said: “With our partners, we intend to mobilise $25 billion in financing for the success of the Africa Adaptation Acceleration Programme. It is time for developed countries to meet their promise of providing $100 billion annually for climate finance. And a greater share of this should go to

climate adaptation. So far, more than $20 trillion have gone into Covid-19 stimulus packages in developed countries. The International Monetary Fund’s plan to issue $650 billion of new Special Drawing Rights (SDRs) to boost global reserves and liquidity will be enormously helpful to support green growth and climate financing for economic recovery. I applaud the leadership of the US government and US Treasury Secretary Janet Yellen, especially, on this big push.” UN Secretary-General, António Guterres, said: “African nations are showing leadership. The Africa Adaptation Acceleration Programme, and many other ambitious African initiatives, must be empowered to fully deliver on their goals. “ Guterres added: “Universal access tome energy in Africa, a priority in the coming years, could be provided primarily through renewable energy. I call for a comprehensive package of support to meet these dual objectives by COP 26. It is achievable, it is necessary, it is overdue, and it is smart.” Source : environewsNigeria

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PEOPLES DAILY, FRIDAY, APRIL 16, 2021

F E A T U R E Afghanistan: ‘We have won the war, America has lost’, say Taliban

riving to Taliban-controlled territory doesn’t take long. Around 30 minutes from the northern city of Mazar-eSharif, passing large craters left by roadside bombs, we meet our host: Haji Hekmat, the Taliban’s shadow mayor in Balkh district. Perfumed and in a black turban, he’s a veteran member of the group, having first joined the militants in the 1990s when they ruled over the majority of the country. The Taliban have arranged a display of force for us. Lined up on either side of the street are heavily armed men, one carrying a rocket propelled grenade launcher, another an M4 assault rifle captured from US forces. Balkh was once one of the more stable parts of the country; now it’s become one of the most violent. Baryalai, a local military commander with a ferocious reputation, points down the road, “the government forces are just there by the main market, but they can’t leave their bases. This territory belongs to the mujahideen”. It’s a similar picture across much of Afghanistan: the government controls the cities and bigger towns, but the Taliban are encircling them, with a presence in large parts of the countryside. The militants assert their authority through sporadic checkpoints along key roads. As Taliban members stop and question passing cars, Aamir Sahib Ajmal, the local head of the Taliban’s intelligence service, tells us they’re searching for people linked to the government. “We will arrest them, and take them prisoner,” he says. “Then we hand them over to our courts and they decide what will happen next.” The Taliban believe victory is theirs. Sitting over a cup of green tea, Haji Hekmat proclaims, “we have won the war and America has lost”. The decision by US President Joe Biden to delay the withdrawal of remaining US forces to September, meaning they will remain in the country past the 1 May deadline agreed last year, has sparked a sharp reaction from the Taliban’s political leadership. Nonetheless, momentum seems to be with the militants. “We are ready for anything,” says Haji Hekmat. “We are totally prepared for peace, and we are fully prepared for jihad.” Sitting next to him, a military commander adds: “Jihad is an act of worship. Worship is something that, however much of it you do, you don’t get tired.” For the past year, there has been an apparent contradiction in the Taliban’s “jihad”. They stopped attacks on international forces following the signing of an agreement with the US, but continued to fight with the Afghan government. Haji Hekmat, though, insists there is no contradiction. “We want an Islamic government ruled by the Sharia. We will continue our jihad until they accept our demands.” On whether or not the Taliban

Haji Hekmat, the Taliban’s shadow mayor in Balkh district, joined the group in the 1990s

Some fear girls will be denied access to education if the Taliban take power again would be willing to share power with other Afghan political factions, Haji Hekmat defers to the group’s political leadership in Qatar. “Whatever they decide we will accept,” he repeatedly says. The Taliban don’t see themselves as a mere rebel group, but as a government-in-waiting. They refer to themselves as the “Islamic Emirate of Afghanistan,” the name they used when in power from 1996 until being overthrown in the aftermath of the 9/11 attacks. Now, they have a sophisticated

“

“shadow” structure, with officials in charge of overseeing everyday services in the areas they control. Haji Hekmat, the Taliban mayor, takes us on a tour. We’re shown a primary school, filled with young boys and girls scribbling in UN-donated textbooks. While in power in the 1990s, the Taliban banned female education, though they often deny that. Even now, there are reports that in other areas older girls are not allowed to attend classes. But here at least the Taliban say they’re actively encouraging it.

“As long as they wear hijab, it’s important for them to study,” says Mawlawi Salahuddin, in charge of the Taliban’s local education commission. In secondary schools, he says, only female teachers are allowed, and the veil is mandatory. “If they follow the Sharia, there is no problem.” Local sources told us the Taliban removed art and citizenship classes from the curriculum, replacing them with Islamic subjects, but otherwise follow the national syllabus. So do the Taliban send their

The Taliban believe victory is theirs. Sitting over a cup of green tea, Haji Hekmat proclaims, “we have won the war and America has lost”. The decision by US President Joe Biden to delay the withdrawal of remaining US forces to September, meaning they will remain in the country past the 1 May deadline agreed last year, has sparked a sharp reaction from the Taliban’s political leadership. Nonetheless, momentum seems to be with the militants.

own daughters to school? “My daughter’s very young, but when she grows up, I will send her to school and the madrassa, as long as it’s implementing the hijab and Sharia,” says Salahuddin. The government pays the salaries of staff, but the Taliban are in charge. It’s a hybrid system in place across the country. At a nearby health clinic, run by an aid organisation, it’s a similar story. The Taliban allow female staff to work, but they must have a male chaperone at night, and the male and female patients have been segregated. Contraception and information about family planning is readily available. The Taliban clearly want us to see them in a more positive light. When we drive past a crowd of schoolgirls making their way home, Haji Hekmat gestures excitedly, proud to be contradicting our expectations. Concerns over the Taliban’s views on women’s rights remain, however. The group has no female representation at all, and in the 1990s prevented women from working outside the home. Driving through the villages in Balkh district, we do see plenty of women, not all of whom are wearing the all-encompassing burqa, walking around freely. At the local bazaar, however, there are none. Haji Hekmat insists there is no ban on them, though in a conservative society he says they generally wouldn’t attend in any case. We are accompanied by the Taliban at all times, and the few local residents we speak to all profess their support for the group, and gratitude to them for improving security and decreasing crime. “When the government were in control, they used to jail our people and demand bribes to free them,” says one elderly man. “Our people suffered a lot, now we are happy with the situation.” The Taliban’s ultraconservative values do clash less with those in more rural areas, but many, particularly in the cities, fear they want to resurrect the brutal Islamic Emirate of the 1990s, undercutting freedoms that many young people have grown up with over the past two decades. One local resident spoke to us later, on condition of anonymity, and told us the Taliban were far stricter than they admitted in our interviews. He described villagers being slapped or beaten for shaving their beards, or having stereos smashed for listening to music. “People have no choice but to do what they say,” he told the BBC, “even over minor issues they get physical. People are scared.” Haji Hekmat was part of the Taliban in the 1990s. While the younger fighters milling around us are happy snapping photos and selfies, he initially moves to cover his face with his turban when he sees our camera. “Old habits,” he says with a grin, before later allowing us to film his face. Under the Taliban’s old regime, photography was banned. Source: BBC

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YAKUBU

mu’azu

I, formerly known as Sunday John John, Now Wish to known and addressed as Sunday John, All former documents remain valid, Authority Concerned and general public should please take note.

I, formerly known as YAKUBU ABDURAMAN, Now Wish to known and addressed as YAKUBU ABDULRAHMAN, All former documents remain valid, Authority Concerned and general public should please take note.

I, formerly known as MU’AZU SULEIMAN, Now Wish to known and addressed as MU’AZU SULAIMAN, All former documents remain valid, Authority Concerned and general public should please take note.

asma’u

philemon

afolayan

I, formerly known as ASMA’U SULAIMAN MOHAMMMED, Now Wish to known and addressed as ASMA’U SULAIMAN. All former documents remain valid, Authority Concerned and general public should please take note.

I, formerly known as PHILEMON GEORGE, Now Wish to known and addressed as PHILEMON GEORGE ENOCH, DATE OF BIRTH 2001-9-12, All former documents remain valid, Authority Concerned and general public should please take note.

I, formerly known as JOSHUA KEHINDE MUSA, Now Wish to known and addressed as AFOLAYAN KEHINDE MUSA, All former documents remain valid, Authority Concerned and general public should please take note.

amachukwu

samira

MRS. VICTORIA

I, formerly known as CHUKWUZOBA AMACHUKWU, Now Wish to known and addressed as AMACHUKWU CHIZOBA STEPHEN. All former documents remain valid, Authority Concerned and general public should please take note.

I, Formerly known as SAMEERA BABANKANO now wish to be known and addressed as SAMIRA BABANKANO my DATE OF BIRTH IS 20/06/1984. All former documents remain valid. Authorities concerned and the general public should please take note.

I, formerly known and addressed as MISS VICTORIA KASARACHI OHUCHE, now wish to be known and addressed as MRS. VICTORIA KASARACHI ONOJETA. All former documents remain valid. Concerned authorities and the general public to please take note.

PUBLIC NOTICE

OPEN LIGHT MINISTRY

PILLAR OF FIRE & FAITH OUTREACH WORLDWIDE

Triple Z development initiative

THE GENERAL PUBLIC IS HEREBY INFORMED THAT THE ABOVE NAMED HASAPPLIED TO THE CORPORATEAFFAIRS COMMISSION, ABUJA FOR REGISTRATION UNDER PART “C” OF THE COMPANIES AND ALLIED MATTERS ACTS, 1990

THE TRUSTEES ARE: 1. PASTOR OBOH OGHENEVWEDE LUCKY - GENERAL OVERSEER 2. MR. DESI ESEOGHENE - SECRETARY 3. MR. EDEKOU TARIEMIYEN BENSON - MEMBER 4. MR. DANIEL OMAMUZO EMMANUEL - MEMBER

THE TRUSTEES ARE: 1. PASTOR ATAHA JOSEPH KUFRE - GENERAL OVERSEER 2. PST.(MRS) ATAHA REJOICE ESANYE - DEPUTY GENERAL OVERSEER 3. MISS. JEREMIAH PRECIOUS TARILAYEFA - SECRETARY

AIMS AND OBJECTIVES 1. TO PREACH THE GOSPEL OF JESUS CHRIST.

ANY OBJECTION TO THE REGISTRATION SHOULD BE FORWARDED TO THE REGISTRARGENERAL, CORPORATE AFFAIRS COMMISSION, PLOT 420, TIGRIS CRESCENT, OFF AGUIYI IRONSI STREET, MAITAMA, P.M.B 198, ABUJA, WITHIN TWENTY EIGHT (28) DAYS OF THIS PUBLICATION. SIGNED: PASTOR EDWIN EMOJEVU 08039230250

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LOSS OF DOCUMENT

SIGNED PASTOR EDWIN EMOJEVU 08039230250

THE TRUSTEES ARE : 1.OKEKE (BAR) OBINNA .E. 2.Chizoba Amara ojukwu Okeke 3. ZIMAKO OJUKWU CHUDI THE AIMS AND OBJECTIVES ARE : 1. To defend and uphold human rights particularly in support of the less privileged and vulnerable groups in the society through every reasonable avenue. 2. To promote education, sustainable environments, health, healthy practices, health seeking behaviors and global health security in and around communities 3. To promote the attainment of gender equalityand equity in the Nigerian society. 4.To mitigate against gender-based violence and all forms of discrimination against women/girls and person’s living with disabilities in the society. 5.To drive social change across pertinent policy areas to bring about social, economic and financial inclusion for all which will ultimately advance the attainment of peace and prosperity to communities. ANY OBJECTION TO THIS REGISTRATION SHOULD BE FORWARDED TO THE REGISTRAR_ GENERAL, CORPORATE AFFAIRS COMMISSION, PLOT 420, TIGRIS CRESCENT , OFF AGUIYI IRONSI STREET , MAITAMA , ABUJA WITHIN 28DAYS OF THIS PUBLICATION. SIGNED : SECRETARY.

I Lawal Usman Funtua wish to inform the general public of the loss of my offer latter of right of of occupancy (R of O) in respect of Plot No. 930, old file No. KT 539 Jahi District, FCT Abuja. All efforts made to trace the said missing document proved abortive,

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THIS IS TO INFORM THE GENERAL PUBLIC THAT THE ABOVE NAMED HAS APPLIED TO THE CORPORATE AFFAIRS COMMISSION (CAC), ABUJA FOR REGISTRATION UNDER PART ‘F’ OF COMPANIES AND ALLIED MATTERS ACT, ( CAMA 2020). THE TRUSTEES ARE : 1. CHARLES NNANNA AMADI - CHAIRMAN 2. OBOT PETER PEACE - SECRETARY 3. ODOR PRINCE EKENE - TREASURER 4. ELEMUWA OKECHUKWU EXCEL - PROVOST 5. IKECHUKWU SAMUEL UGOJI - VICE CHAIRMAN. THE AIMS AND OBJECTIVES ARE : 1. TO PROMOTE THE GAME OF SNOOKER. 2. TO PROVIDE AND MAINTAIN A CLUB HOUSE FOR THE USE OF MEMBERS. 3. TO USE SPORTS AS A MEDIUM. 4. TO REACH OUT TO BOTH THE YOUNG AND OLD IN THE SOCIETY. 5. TO PROMOTE PEACE AND UNITY AMONG IT’S MEMBERS. 6. TO CARTER FOR THE WELFARE OF MEMBERS. 7. TO PROMOTE PROFESSIONALISM IN THE CONDUCT OF MEMBERS AFFAIRS. 8. TO ORGANIZE SPORTS COMPETITIONS AND ENGAGE THE MEMBERS OF THE SOCIETY WITH DIFFERENT SCHEDULED GAMES. 9. TO COLLABORATE WITH COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT ASSOCIATIONS AND AGENCIES OF GOVERNMENT ON ANY PROJECT THAT IMPACT POSITIVELY ON PEOPLE’S LIFE THROUGH SPORTS. ANY OBJECTION TO THIS REGISTRATION SHOULD BE FORWARDED TO THE REGISTRAR_ GENERAL, CORPORATE AFFAIRS COMMISSION, PLOT 420, TIGRIS CRESCENT , OFF AGUIYI IRONSI STREET , MAITAMA , ABUJA WITHIN 28DAYS OF THIS PUBLICATION. SIGNED : SECRETARY.

THE AIMS AND OBJECTIVES ARE : a. To maintain the quality of the estate by the residents jointly and collectively. b. To guide against arbitral decisions that will affect the structural face/formand the collectiveassets of the estate. c. To guide against mismanagement of the estate facilities. ANY OBJECTION TO THIS REGISTRATION SHOULD BE FORWARDED TO THE REGISTRAR_GENERAL, CORPORATE AFFAIRS COMMISSION, PLOT 420, TIGRIS CRESCENT , OFF AGUIYI IRONSI STREET , MAITAMA , ABUJA WITHIN 28DAYS OF THIS PUBLICATION. SIGNED : SECRETARY.

– Chairman – Secretary

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Sports

PEOPLES DAILY

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FRIDAY, APRIL 16, 2021 By Amaechi Agbo

etermined to help fight climate change and create a healthy environment for all, the Nigeria Teqball Federation NIGTEQ Tuesday embarked on tree planting The exercise which took place at the River Park, Business District, Abuja was coordinated by the President of NIGTEQ, Egnr Habu Gumel. Engr. Gumel who personally planed one if the step tress during the exercise said that the move was part of NIGTEQ’s in her fourday training programme and initiatives to help in securing the environment and beautifying it. He called on the general public particularly Nigerians to see the need to plant a tree as a national and personal assignment. “We all know the importance of trees around us. They provide fresh air, add beauty to our surrounding and most importantly, help protect us from climatic change. “We will continue to do this annually because as a federation, we believe that for us to do well in sports, our environment must be healthy and protected.” On his part, the General Secretary of NIGTEQ, Mr Ndudi Edede noted that tree planting as well as general sanitation were part of the federation’s Corporate. Social Responsibility, CRS. He noted that the federation would continue to do her best in preserving the environment and

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Nigeria Teqball Federation embarks on tree planting in Abuja

ensuing that Nigerians and indeed the global community imbibes the general message as importance of tree planting. Chairman of Federal Capital Territory Teqball Association, Mr Ibrahim Galadima also participated in the tree planting. The tree planting was part of the 4-day capacity programme organised by the NIGTEQ in collaboration with International Federation of Teqball FITEQ. Similarly, the President, Nigeria Teqball Federation, NIGTEQ, Engr Habu Gumel has charged the coaches and Referees of the beautiful game on professionalism. Engr. Gumel who gave the charge in Abuja while addressing the coaches and referees who underwent a four-day capacity training workshop commended the Coaches and Referees for turning up for the programme. Describing them as the pioneers of teqball in Nigeria, the President encouraged them to put in their best and be good ambassadors of the curved game. “We all know that our own Olympic, the sports festival is going on in in Edo state but I decided to cut short my programme there to

NIGTEQ President, Engr Habu Gumel planting a tree in Abuja Monday be here with you. “This obviously is because if the importance we all attached to this great training programme. I therefore encourage you that as you finish this training to

be professional in your duties. Whether as a coach or referee, you should be able to understand your professional duties and be able to uphold them always. “You are the pioneers of the

teqball in Nigeria and much is expected of you. You should be good ambassadors of the game. The training which commenced on Saturday, April 10 was rounded up on Tuesday, April 13, 2021.

Ahemd Musa rejoins Kano Pillars on short deal By Amaechi Agbo

fter 6 months without a club, Super Eagles captain, Ahmed Musa, has returned to Kano Pillars FC for the remainder of the 2020/21 Nigeria Professional Football League season (NPFL), the club Confirmed Musa previously played for the Pride of Kano in 2009 were he ended the season as the top scorer in the NPFL with 18 goals before moving to VVV-Venlo in the Netherlands. In a statement from the office of the chairman of the club, Alhaji Surajo Shuaibu Jambul and signed by the media officer, Rilwanu Malikawa revealed that the Sai Masu Gida have agreed to signed Musa until the end of the

2020/21 football season. According to Malikawa, the club have agreed to the deal after due consultations with the player and the League Management Company of Nigeria (LMC) whom stood as a mediator to the deal. Malikawa further stated that the club have received a letter from the LMC that was signed by the Chief Operating Officer, Malam Salihu Abubakar, that Kano Pillars will sign Ahmed Musa as an Elite player of the league to the end of the season. The seasoned journalist said Kano Pillars FC family are happy to welcome back one of their own and have wished him Allah’s guidance. “Ahmad Musa is our own and Pillars FC will continue to support

him anytime and anywhere he found himself,” Malikawa said. Amongst the contractual agreement reached and would be documented between Musa and Kano Pillars is……, anytime the player got an offer, he would be released by the club. Malikawa concluded that after completing all the necessary documentations, Ahmed Musa would be unveil by His Excellency, the executive Governor of Kano state, Dr. Abdullahi Umar Ganduje before the commencement of the second stanza of the league. The four-time NPFL Champions are joint leaders of the log alongside Kwara Utd with 36 points each from 19 matches though Pillars are second due to lesser goal difference.

Women’s Ballon d’Or holder makes plea to Messi, Ronaldo

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U-15 La Liga/ NPFL Tournament: Enugu Sports Commissioners Assures of readiness

PEOPLES DAILY, FRIDAY, APRIL 16, 2021

Rangers players embark on one-week break

nugu State Commissioner for Youth and Sports, Hon. Manfred Nzekwe has assured Nigeria Football Federation/ League Management Company delegation in Enugu State of California the readiness of the State to host a hitch- free under 15 LaLiga NPFL , football tournament in Enugu State. Speaking while receiving officials of NFF/LMC with Enugu State Football Association Officials and the Local Organizing Committee members, in his office, Tuesday, Commissioner Manfred Nzekwe , commended the NFF for deeming Enugu State capable of hosting such important football tournament. He assured that Governor Ifeanyi Ugwuanyi, by accepting to host the tournament, the state government will put everything in place to guarantee the success of the tournament adding that the tournament will be the best organized tournament in Nigeria. He further assured that every relevant stakeholder will be brought on board to ensure a successful tournament. In his speech, the leader of the delegation and General Coordinator Youth League, of the Nigeria Football Federation/ League Management Company, Dr Johnson Obaseki, informed the Commissioner that Under 15 LaLiga/ Nigeria Football Federation tournament will commence from Monday 12 the April, as arrival date, while kick- off will commence on Thursday15th April, with the final coming up on May 2nd 2021. He requested for accommodation of visiting teams and vehicle for the visiting Local Organizing Committee members, adding that the team will work in synergy with other stakeholders to ensure the success of the Championship. In his statement, the Chairman Enugu State Football Association Barr.Tony Ugwu, assured that all the necessary logistics required for the Championship will be provided by the state Football Association and the organizing committee.

Rangers players celebrating

anagement of Rangers International F.C, the ‘Flying Antelopes’, ably led by Prince Davidson Owumi has approved a one-week break for players of the club with effect from Tuesday, April 13, 2021. Addressing the players at the club’ ultramodern players’ camp, Nkponkiti road, Independence Layout, Enugu, Tuesday, G.M/ CEO of the side, Prince Owumi Davidson, charged the players to be professional in all their conducts during the break stressing that the period was for each player to relax, refresh and refocus their minds for the task ahead in the second round of the 2020/21 NPFL season.

“This break is coming at the instance of the technical crew led by coach Salisu Yusuf as we now have a date for the start of the second round and I charge you all to be true professionals in this break period. I believe it is a period for you to take your mind off anything football. Just relax, refresh and refocus your minds on what you will do for us to achieve our set target in the second round of the league,” stated the astute football management guru while addressing the players. Also speaking, technical adviser, Coach Salisu Yusuf advised the players to maintain the level of fitness they have attained while on break warning that there will be penalties for any player that acts unprofessionally during

the period. “I know the level we are leaving you people and I expect to see it on your return in a week’s time. Please, be professional in all your conducts as there will be penalties for any reported unprofessional conduct during the break,” stated the vastly experienced gaffer. The players are expected back in Enugu on Tuesday, April 20, 2021 with training sessions commencing Wednesday, April 21, 2021. The ‘Flying Antelopes’ are currently placed 4th on the twenty-team log with 30 points from 18 matches played as the rescheduled match day 19 fixture with oriental neighbours, Enyimba International F.C is yet to get a date from organizers of the league, L.M.C.

Akure to host NLO division 3

he Nigeria Nationwide League One, NLO has confirmed that Ondo State Sports Complex, Akure will be one of the centres for the division three of its matches. The Chairman of the NLO, who also doubles as a board member of the NFF, Alhaji Mohammed Alkali stated this at the inauguration of standing committees by the Ondo State Football Association “My colleagues sent me to welcome him back as the Chairman back after his election. Am assuring the people of Ondo state that right from today, you will see changes. “The entire Congress of the NFF are happy with the election of Otunba Dele Ajayi. In the next edition of our NLO division 3, a big centre will be awarded to Ondo State. Inaugurating the committee, Board member of the Nigeria Football Federation, Alhaji Ahmed Yusuf Fresh said,the constitution of the standing-committees, was in tune with the statutes of the NFF. Fresh said he was happy that the State FA Chairman,Otunba Dele Ajayi, had brought everyone on board from the last election and would be successful, saying,” A divided house will not last “ Fresh urged the members of Sports Writers in the state to also, always put the FA in the state in the right direction whenever they were astray. Earlier, the Chairman of the Ondo FA, Otunba Dele Ajayi said the state

NLO players in action would be full of football activities with the committees in place. Ajayi said Ondo State FA has the solution to the problem of Sunshine Stars and Sunshine Queens, urging the state government to carry the association along. “We are ready to collaborate with people with ideas and personnel from people that can make Ondo state enviable heights. “We thank the governor of the state, Oluwarotimi Akeredolu, for the huge amount he has released for the state owned

teams so far. “We know what to help both teams. It is too bad to owe for seven months for the male team and 13 months for the female team,” he said. Ajayi later thanked both Board members Alhaji Ahmed Yusuf Fresh and Alhaji Mohammed Alkali for gracing the occasion. Alkali, who is the Chairman of the Nassarawa FA, said the whole of NFF were happy with the election of Dele Ajayi as the chairman of the FA in the state.

PEOPLES DAILY, FRIDAY, APRIL 16, 2021

PAGE 31

. . . putting the people first

FRIDAY, APRIL 16, 2021

SPORTS latest

Chelsea enter race for Liverpool’s Wijnaldum

Carragher recommends Lampard for England U-21 coaching Job

egendary Liverpool defender Jamie Carragher believes the England U-21 job could be the ‘perfect’ next step for Frank Lampard. The young Lions were knocked out of the European Championships on goal difference despite beating Croatia 2-1 having conceded a late, pivotal strike in injury time. Having lost their opening two group games against Portugal and Switzerland, Aidy Boothroyd’s position as manager has come under intense scrutiny and he himself said this week:“The England senior men’s job was called impossible job. Taye the Taiwo and Oduamadi

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Pastor Adefarasin, if Nigeria is a scam; then we’re all scammers

helsea has reportedly emerged as surprise contenders for the signing of Liverpool Dutch midfielder Georginio Wijnaldum this summer. The 30-year-old Dutch midfielder’s future has been the subject of fierce debate over recent months, with his contract with the Reds due to expire in June. A move to Chelsea would certainly not go down well with Liverpool fans, who would no doubt rather he move abroad rather than become a direct domestic rival.

THIS SPACE IS FOR SALE

t is the bounden duty of every citizen to hold the government to account. In fact, citizenship is a call to duty – for the state. And there is no compelling duty which supersedes citizens subjecting their employees – the government – to scrutiny and constant vigilance. Criticising the government is within the rights of every citizen, and active citizenship demands taking the government through its paces. No government is without criticism, and none is too special for criticism. However, we must distinguish between any government and Nigeria as a country. Governments will come and go, but Nigeria remains. We must understand Nigeria is its people. So, when we cast pejoratives at the country we are only slinging shots at ourselves. If we say, ‘’Nigeria is a scam’’, inadvertently we are implying, ‘’Nigerians are scammers’’. Nigeria did not become a ‘’scam’’, as some of those reviling the nation say, by accident; it became whatever it is by the machination of all of us. Nigeria is not a ‘’mere geographical expression’’. Nigeria is its people. The good, the bad and the ugly – we made it so. Whatever is ailing the country we are a vector of the causative factors. If Nigeria is a scam – as alleged by Pastor Paul Adefarasin -- then we are all scammers. Though I concede that Adefarasin’s outburst might have come from a place of patriotism, his cataloguing of Nigeria as a ‘’scam and fraud’’ falls short of tact and critical reasoning. If Nigeria is a fraud; then we are all fraudsters – leaders

0806 564 8620 0814 292 9046 0803 587 5846 08074420617

“

GUEST COLUMNIST

By Fredrick Nwabufo and followers alike. We all have contributed in no small measure to the discomfiture of the entity. We live in a country where pastors run their ministries like conglomerates. They run them like business enterprises -- but evading tax in the process. CAMA; a law to regulate the

live in triumph of the law. Pastor Chris Oyakhilome has been spreading injurious falsehood regarding COVID vaccine. He claims it is the concoction of the anti-Christ. He was fined 125,000 pounds for making ‘’potentially harmful and unsubstantiated’’ claims about the vaccine by the UK. But in Nigeria where he continues to traffic in COVID conspiracies, he has not been made to account for his transgressions because he is a ‘’man of god’’. Perhaps, this is why Nigeria is a ‘’scam’’. If Nigeria is a scam, then it is because of pastors who sit on high and trample on the laws governing the land. If Nigeria is a fraud, then it is because of pastors who go into concordats with politicians every election season; campaigning for them on the pulpit and commanding the bloodhounds of hell against those who do not accept their ‘’anointed candidates’’. The clergy is as tainted as the political class. Also, a civil servant, who earns N150,000 monthly but has kids in UK schools and with real estate dotting major cities in the country, will revile Nigeria submerging his own hypocrisy in lamentations and jibes at the state. He ignores conveniently his complicity

We live in a country where pastors run their ministries like conglomerates. They run them like business enterprises -- but evading tax in the process. CAMA; a law to regulate the business undertakings of the religious industry and to bring some transparency and accountability into the ‘’spiritual business’’ was introduced by the government business undertakings of the religious industry and to bring some transparency and accountability into the ‘’spiritual business’’ was introduced by the government. However, the staunchest antagonists of this law have been pastors. Yet, these same people who do not want to live by the law are the loudest voices when passing capital sentences on Nigeria. Interestingly, these pastors run their churches in conformity with the law in other countries. They submit their finances for regular checks by the authorities in the UK, the US and other places. But in Nigeria they

in the corruption ravaging the country. In addition, some citizens spurn laws, rules and regulations. Where there are traffic lights, they ignore them; where there are procedures, they bypass them, and where there are standards put in place for effective service delivery and operations, they abandon them. Yet, they all blame ‘’Nigeria’’ for the jeopardous status quo as if the country exists without its people. The problem with Nigeria is a people problem. But the tragedy is that no one wants to accept liability for the appalling state of things. We cast the blame at the feet of ‘’abstract Nigeria’’. We are all complicit in the degenerative emasculation of Nigeria. Instead of abiding in wilful fatalism about Nigeria, we should project goodness and positivity into the system while working at making our country what we want it to be. Nigeria is what we make of it. The political class is flawed. But that is the reason a new generation of leaders must emerge and take the reins. None but ‘’ourselves can free our minds’’. Citizenship is a call to duty. NIGERIA IS NOT A SCAM. By Fredrick ‘Mr OneNigeria’ Nwabufo Twitter @ FredrickNwabufo

DAN GAYE Dangai

Economic council says another lockdown will be last resort - News

Man must wack

Published by Peoples Media Limited, 35, Ajose Adeogun Street, 1st Floor Peace Park Plaza, Utako, Abuja. Kaduna office: K6 Ahmadu Bello Way, opposite Kontagora road, Kaduna. Tel: +234 814 292 9046. Cell: +234 802 443 2099; 803 7007 759. e-mail: contact@peoplesdailyng.com; pmlnewseditor@gmail.com ISSN: 2141– 6141