Fri 16 Aug 2013 by The Guardian Newspaper

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Conscience, Nurtured by Truth

Vol. 30, No. 12,650

Friday, August 16, 2013

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Govt restates bid for Security Council’s seat • Jonathan, Obasanjo, others pay Anyaoku tributes By Tunde Akinola RESIDENT Goodluck P Jonathan yesterday reiterated the determination of the Federal Government to contest election into the United Nations Security Council for the 2014-2015 session to ensure more visibility in the global body. He said that Nigeria’s image at the African Union (AU) was unassailable as the nation was represented at the highest decision-making organ of the organisation. At the launch of former Commonwealth Secretary-General, Chief Emeka Anyaoku’s book entitled Footprints of an Iconic Diplomat in Lagos yesterday, Jonathan, represented by the Minister of Foreign Affairs, Ambassador Gbenga Ashiru, said: “In our sub-region, Nigeria’s credentials have helped to stabilise the region and bring peace to Obasanjo (right), Dr. Leke Pitan, Anyaoku, Ashiru and Osun State Deputy Governor, Titi Laoye-Tomori, during the former Commonwealth Secretary General’s 80th birthday/book launch at MUSON Centre in Lagos… yesterday. PHOTO: GABRIEL IKHAHON

CONTINUED ON PAGE 2

How to end Boko Haram terrorism, by United States From Bola Olajuwon (Lagos), Lillian Chukwu and John Okeke (Abuja) ASHINGTON yesterday W underscored the imperative of tackling terrorist group, Boko Haram, by the Nigerian government. According to the United States (U.S.), Nigeria will not fully achieve its potential as a stable regional leader until it successfully overcomes the terror group and secures

• Says equity, transparency, selfless policies crucial • Lists steps to isolate terrorists, build national consensus peace and protection for its citizens. American Under Secretary of State, Wendy Sherman, stated during the opening session of U.S.-Nigeria

Bi-national Commission’s Regional Security Co-operation Working Group in Abuja that the most populous African nation’s success was important to his country.

She said that the U.S. would continue to invest in Nigeria’s institutions, people and businesses to both countries’ mutual benefit. According to the envoy, the

U.S. recognises that success cannot be achieved unless Nigeria surmounts the challenges that frustrate progress, and that it is in this spirit that Washington DC engages the working group on regional security cooperation. According to her, Nigeria

Police seize suspected explosives in Oyo - Page 4

faces several challenges to national and regional stability. Her words: “The largest of these challenges is, of course, the Boko Haram-led insurgency operating in the country’s North-East that has created widespread insecurity across northern Nigeria, increased tensions between various ethnic communities, interrupted development acCONTINUED ON PAGE 2

THE GUARDIAN, Friday, August 16, 2013

2 NEWS

Why Nigeria remains under-developed, by varsity teachers ET, another damning verY dict came yesterday from reputable professors when they painted gloomy pictures of Nigeria’s ‘obvious’ inability to meet its developmental goals and objectives, especially in the education sector. According to them, globally, developmental plans will never translate into its proportionate physical value unless they are complemented with practical commitment, through aggressive investments in education infrastructure and strategic plans for sustainability. They said that Nigeria cannot develop if we encourage corruption and impunity in the country, urging government to honour the agreement it signed with ASUU. Top university administrators and teachers unanimously expressed these views during the Nigeria Academy of Letters (NAL) programme for the 15th convocation and the investiture of new fellows held at University of Lagos (UNILAG), Lagos State. In his remarks, Vice Chancellor, UNILAG, Prof. Rahamon Bello, advised that if Nigeria must develop, we need patriotic leadership. “If Nigeria must develop, we should have selfless leadership that can restore the lost glory in education sector. We must fight corruption and impuni-

ty in our government, which is why Nigeria has failed to develop to become a standard and attractive society”,

he said. Vice Chancellor, Caleb University, Prof. Ayodeji Olukoju, said that Nigeria needs peace in order to develop.

“We need Nigeria of our dream where we can have peace. If we tackle the prevailing education crisis,

Nigeria can restore its lost glory in Africa and the world at large. We need some kind of sacrifice our founding leaders used to develop; we need a development to harness human and natural resources

Anyaoku (right), Mrs. Alex-Ibru (middle) and Femi Akinsanya at the event… yesterday.

and take a kind of visionary and patriotic leadership. We need Nigeria of our dream where we want to be in next 10 years in context of West Africa, Africa and the world. It is possible but it takes a group of men and women who have a vision and ready to make selfless sacrifice. He continued. “Let there be peace, let the honest agree-

PHOTO: GABRIEL IKHAHON

Jonathan, Obasanjo, Maiden Alex-Ibru pay Anyaoku tributes CONTINUED FROM PAGE 1 Cote d’Ivoire, Mali and Guinea Bissau… “We are also moving forward to ensure more relevance and visibility at the UN Security Council for 2014 to 2015. In all this, the synergy between the Foreign Ministry and Presidential Adviso-

ry Council (PAC) is unmistakable.” According to him, Anyaoku is a complete man who is also “well-rooted” at home. “Commitment to dispense charity to the global world has not, for a moment, obscured him from his very cradle of life. Tribute to this chief, therefore, cannot be

complete without a word on his service to his people,” Jonathan said. According to former President Olusegun Obasanjo, Anyaoku distinguished himself in the international arena as a credible ambassador of Nigeria. Obasanjo, who described Anyaoku as his long-time

friend, said his activities at the Commonwealth Secretariat did not only bring respect to him as a person, they also improved Nigeria’s image on the global stage. Also present at the event were The Guardian’s Publisher, Lady Maiden Alex-Ibru; Executive Director, Toke Alex-Ibru and Managing Di-

rector, Eluem Emeka Izeze. Others included Deacon Gamaliel Onosode, British High Commissioner to Nigeria, Andrew Pocock, former Nigerian Ambassador to Russia, Jibrin Chinade, Publisher of Vanguard Newspapers, Sam Pemu-Amuka, former Military Governor, Lagos State, Admiral Ndubuisi

Kanu, former Vice Chancellor of Obafemi Awolowo University (OAU), Prof. Wale Omole, a chieftain of Yoruba sociopolitical group, Afenifere, Chief Ayo Adebanjo, former Minister of Petroleum, Odein Ajumogobia, a member of the House of Representatives, Abike Dabiri-Erewa and Senator Ben Obi.

U.S. says equity, transparency, selfless policies crucial to end terrorism CONTINUED FROM PAGE 1 tivities, frightened off investors and generated concerns among Nigeria’s northern neighbours. “We know that Boko Haram offers no practical solutions to northern Nigeria’s problems. Instead, it capitalises on popular frustrations, religious differences and economic and social difficulties, seeking to undermine the government and exploit religious differences in order to create chaos and make Nigeria ungovernable. The U.S. knows from experience the immense difficulty in confronting an enemy that respects no boundaries and kills civilians indiscriminately. “Today, I hope that our teams can identify specific areas in the context of regional security where we can deepen our partnership and chart concrete steps forward

on those topics on which we are already working together.” She said security efforts were necessary to protect innocent Nigerians, prevent Boko Haram’s acts of violence and to capture and prosecute its leaders. The Nigerian government and military, according to her, must also win over the hearts and minds of northern people by protecting them and providing timely and commensurate justice to both insurgents and the victims of the unfortunate conflict. According to her, a comprehensive approach that addresses socio-economic problems, articulates clear rules of engagement and commits to accountability for those who perpetrate violence, both Boko Haram and security forces, will demonstrate to Nigerians that their future is brighter in a more

secure country. She spoke further: “This may require a new social compact with Nigerian citizens that encompasses an economic recovery strategy as a complement to the government’s security strategy. This approach will be successful to the extent that it can garner the support of northern governors and local officials, traditional and religious leaders, civil society organisations and a generation of young Nigerians who are connected to their government, locally and federally. “Achieving success will not be easy, but we are ready to work with you as one of your strongest and most faithful friends and partners, to discuss new ways of help. We stand ready to work together to develop a multi-faceted strategy to counter the threat posed by Boko Haram that also demonstrates to

civilians that they will be protected. “Nigeria’s diverse people, land and spirit have already established a foundation for long-term national and regional stability; however, with today’s insurgent challenges, strong nations must deepen our commitment to respect human life and dignity, build peace, and prevent future atrocities, even in the midst of a protracted conflict with a violent enemy. “We look forward to hearing Nigeria’s unique accounts of what steps you are taking to ensure transparency, accountability and justice, including access for civil society organisations and journalists to the North and what steps have been taken to bring to justice those accused of human rights violations.” She stated that the U.S. had named three individuals as Specially Designated Global

Achieving success will not be easy, but we are ready to work with you as one of your strongest and most faithful friends and partners, to discuss new ways of help. We stand ready to work together to develop a multifaceted strategy to counter the threat posed by Boko Haram that also demonstrates to civilians that they will be protected Terrorists, demonstrating its resolve in working with Nigeria to diminish the capacity of Boko Haram to execute violent attacks. She said her country had also provided assistance focused on identifying areas for information-sharing, enhancing security force professionalism and developing tactics to increase public confidence in Nigeria’s security response and improving

the country’s forensic and investigative capacity. “The United States has also been working with Nigerian peace-keepers that are deployed in missions across Africa to make sure they have the training and equipment necessary for global peace and security missions. In fact, since 2004, we have trained over 800 staff officers and more than 41,000 troops through the Africa Contingency Operations Training and Assistance (ACOTA) programme,” she added.

THE GUARDIAN, Friday, August 16, 2013

4 NEWS

Asaba to host 2013 editors’ conference

Police seize suspected explosives in Oyo From Iyabo Lawal, Ibadan HE Oyo State Police ComT mand may have prevented influx of a large quantity of explosives into the state as its men intercepted a vehicle conveying deadly weapons along Podo-Ijebu Ode road. Though, the three occupants of the Nissan Sunny vehicle marked Ogun XC 863 AKM and painted in Ogun State commercial colour escaped into the bush, the weapons were seized from them. Addressing reporters on the development, the State Police Commissioner, Mohammed Indabawa, said: “On August 11, 2013 at 3.15a.m., a police patrol team along Podo-Ijebu Ode intercepted a taxi with three occupants whom they flagged down but refused to stop and sped off. After a hot chase, the occupants of the

vehicle escaped into a nearby busy while the vehicle was abandoned.” He stated that the explosive items found in the vehicle included six cartons of explosive powder, two cartons of solar detonating cords, 16 bundles of 10 wires each of delay detonator wire”. According to him, the explosives, after investigation, were stolen from a quarry at toll gate on August 8, 2013 but the police would still investigate further the ulterior motive behind the conveyance of the explosives. Also paraded was a suspected hired assassin whose name was given as Ikechukwu Christopher. The photograph of the woman the suspect was detailed to kill and a locally made single barrel pistol loaded with one cartridge were allegedly found on him during his arrest.

CONOMIC experts, minisE ters, governors and top businessmen are billed to come up with viable suggestions on how the nation can be rescued from its age-long dependence on crude oil as its only source of its income when editors hold their ninth All Nigerian Editors Conference in Asaba from August 21-24. In a release by the General Secretary of the Guild of Editors, Isaac Ighure, the theme of the four-day conference, which will be chaired by renowned veteran journalist

Auchi poly ranks best in Africa From Alemma-Ozioruva Aliu, Benin City HE latest ranking of tertiT ary institutions in the World by Webometrics has

Abubakar

Anxiety in Plateau community over rumours of attack From Isa Abdulsalami Ahovi, Jos HERE was anxiety in LangT tang North and Langtang South local council areas of Plateau State yesterday over rumours of planned attacks by persons suspected to be Fulani herdsmen, a situation that has caused residents to relocate. Director of Stefanos Foundation, Mr. Mark Lipdo, said

that sources confirmed to him that about 3, 000 insurgents were being camped around Pino area in Wase Local Council with the intention of attacking Taroh land. Lipdo, in a text message to journalists yesterday, alleged that the insurgents were to be drafted to Kadarko in Wase and to the entire stretch of Taroh chiefdom spread over the six local

council areas that make up Plateau South Senatorial Zone. “The plan is to subdue this predominantly Christian area in their continuous Sharia campaign in northern Nigeria.” Spokesman of the Special Task Force (STF), Captain Salisu Ibrahim Mustapha, said that although he had been informed of people fleeing

TheGuardian SUNDAY, AUGUST 18, 2013

APC: Will This Be Buhari’s Retirement Benefit? EN. Muhammadu Buhari is no longer a young man. Having contested the presidency for three times, 2015 could put a seal on that aspiration. But the question is whether the Young Turks from the North will concede this last chance to him. Also, it is not clear if his political assets will outweigh his liabilities when he takes his campaign outside the North to the South-South, Southeast. Take a look at the options.

CROSS the country, we bring you A tales of incoherent policies on hous- Vanishing Values ing, failing public housing estates, aban-

RUINS OF HOUSING ESTATES donment and defacements. See what has become of FESTAC Lagos and others!

and former governor of Ogun State, Segun Osoba, is “Nigeria Beyond Oil: Role of the Editors”. Africa’s richest man, Alhaji Aliko Dangote, GCON, is expected to set the tone of the conference in a keynote address. Ministers listed to speak on key issues that are germane to the diversification of the economy are those of Agriculture, Akinwumi Adesina, who will speak on ‘The Value Chain Roadmap’; and Edem Duke, Tourism, ‘Oil Exhaustible, Tourism Inexhaustible’.

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the area, he believed the Sector Commander of the STF there would handle the situation appropriately. When contacted, the Plateau State Commissioner for Information and Communication, Mr. Yiljap Abraham, said the government was processing the information to authenticate its veracity.

ranked the Federal Polytechnic, Auchi as the best in Africa and by implication the best in the country. The latest ranking also showed that Auchi Polytechnic retained its position as the second best tertiary educational institution in Nigeria. Rector of the polytechnic, Dr. Philipa Idogho, who told journalists yesterday that the feat was achieved with support from staff and students of the school that had ensured a peaceful academic environment in the last five years since she became the rector of the school, expressed satisfaction with the latest ranking of the polytechnic, which has been a consistent perform-

That the polytechnic has consistently been rated with the universities demonstrates the high standard of academic activities in the institution,” she said, adding that the rating was a further challenge to the polytechnic’s management to work harder as being at the top is not as difficult as remaining at the top. ance since 2010. “That the polytechnic has consistently been rated with the universities demonstrates the high standard of academic activities in the institution,” she said, adding that the rating was a further challenge to the polytechnic’s management to work harder as being at the top is not as difficult as remaining at the top.

I’m in PDP, other parties are welcome, says Atiku ORMER Vice-President provided the impetus for his Secretary to the INEC ChairFwhile Atiku Abubakar has said impressive performance man, Mr. Kayode Idowu, he remained a loyal across the country during claimed he had been quoted Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) member, he doesn’t have the right or power to stop others from associating or seeking registration for new parties. Following enquiries on the reported registration of the Peoples Democratic Movement (PDM) as a political party, the former number two citizen said he would always welcome the expansion of the political space to accommodate all shades of opinions or political hue. In a statement issued by his Media Adviser, Mallam Garba Shehu, Atiku who, acknowledged that many of his political associates are involved in registration of the PDM, however explained that he had no powers to stop adults with common interests from coming together to form a party. He also noted that many of his political associates are equally members of political parties other than the PDP. According to him, freedom of association as enshrined in the constitution is the beauty of democracy and that he wouldn’t dissuade any of his followers from seeking a platform to promote their programmes. Political analysts recalled the active role of the PDM in the country’s democratic transition from the Babangida, Abacha and Abdulsalami administrations. The PDM platform, which was founded by the late General Shehu Musa Yar’Adua,

the September 1992 presidential primaries, which were later cancelled by the military regime. The late Gen. Yar’Adua came close to becoming President, thanks to the formidable PDM structure. In 1999, the PDM was also in the forefront in the emergence of former President Olusegun Obasanjo as the PDP presidential candidate. Political observers also noted that the choice of Atiku Abubakar as running mate to Obasanjo in 1999 was a recognition of the active role of the PDM platform in his victory. In a related development, the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) also yesterday denied ever confirming that Atiku and some other PDP governors had applied for registration of a new party to be named Peoples Progressive Movement (PPM). In a letter dated August 15, 2013 and addressed to a national daily where the story was first published before it went online, the Chief Press

Atiku Abubakar

out of context. “I write to refute an attribution to me in your paper today that a former Vice-President and nine Peoples Democratic Party governors are floating a political party,” he said. “You cited me in a story titled ‘Nine PDP Govs Float Party, Apply for Registration’ as confirming to you that the former Vice-President and some governors of the ruling Peoples Democratic Party have applied for the registration of a party to be known as the Peoples Progressive Movement (PPM). Your reporter will confirm to you that I never said such a thing. “The question your reporter asked was if there is any pending application for party registration in the Commission, and I confirmed that an application, as always, is pending.” He explained that INEC, by law, receives applications for party registration and treats them on individual merit. “INEC makes no public issue of the party identity or their promoters,” he said.

THE GUARDIAN, Friday, August 16, 2013

NEWS | 5

News Women hold mega rally in Abuja From Terhemba Daka, Abuja FFICIAL and other business activities in the central area of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) were grounded for several hours yesterday as over 15,000 Nigerian women cutting across diverse socio-ecobackgrounds nomic converged on Abuja for a mega rally to advance the cause of peace and women empowerment in the country. All routes leading to the city centre were characterised by excruciating traffic gridlock on the road leading to the Federal Secretariat and the Eagle Square, venue of the rally organised by the National Council of Women Societies (NCWS), in collaboration with Women for Change and Development Initiative under the leadership of the First Lady, Dame Patience Jonathan. All pavilions in the arena were filled to capacity as hundreds of the women who thronged the area struggled to go through the tight security put in place by the various security agencies.

Obadare’s body arrives in Osun From Tunji Omofoye, Osogbo HE body of the late preacher T and founder of the World Soul Winning Evangelical Ministry (WOSEM), Apostle Timothy Obadare, arrived Osun, his home state, from Lagos yesterday and was received by top government functionaries. Among those who received the body at the Asejire border of Osun and Oyo states were the Commissioner for Home Affairs, Culture and Tourism, Alhaji Sikiru Ayedun, his counterparts in the Finance, Dr. Wale Bolorunduro and Environment, Prof. Bukola Oyawoye as well as the Special Adviser to the Governor on Works, Mr. Oladepo Amuda. The late Obadare died in March this year and his remains would be buried tomorrow in Ilesa, his home town.

TAC gets new DG From Mohammed Abubakar, Abuja RESIDENT Goodluck Jonathan has named Dr. Pius Olakunle Osuyinkanmi as the new Director-General and Chief Executive Officer for the Technical Aid Corps (TAC). The new appointee succeeds Ambassador Mamman Daura, whose tenure expired in June. Until his appointment, Osuyinkanmi was a Special Adviser to the President on International Relations. The appointment takes immediate effect. A native of Ile-Oluji in Ondo State, Osunyikanmi holds a doctorate degree in Political Science. He previously served in several capacities including Special Adviser to the Governor of Ondo State on Intergovernmental Affairs and Multilateral Relations (2009-2010) and Commissioner for Education, Ondo State (2010). Established in 1987, the Technical Aid Corps is a Foreign Policy mechanism to deliver Technical Manpower Assistance to the African, Caribbean and Pacific (ACP) countries.

Chairman, Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC), Oyo State Chapter, Bashiru Olanrewaju (left); former Minister of Petroleum, Prof. Tam David West and Dr. Duro Adeleke, during the town hall meeting of the Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU), University of Ibadan (UI) Branch in Ibadan… yesterday. PHOTO: NAJEEM RAHEEM

Judicial panel orders Rivers CP, Wike, others to file responses From Kelvin Ebiri, Port Harcourt HE Judicial Commission of Inquiry into the crisis in the Rivers State House of Assembly has given the Commissioner of Police, Mbu Joseph Mbu, Minister of State for Education, Nyesom Wike, and others up to noon of August 20, 2013 to file in their responses to allegations levelled against them. Chairman of the Commission, Justice Biobele Georgewill, said all the persons and organisations mentioned in the memoranda already submitted to the panel by other aggrieved parties must submit their responses to enable the commission commence proper hearing of the applications filed. The names of other persons mentioned by the commission include the Area Commander, MOPOL 19. Members of the House of Assembly ordered to submit their re-

• PDP flays Amaechi’s claim on security sponses include Mr. Evans Bipi, representing Ogu/Bolo; Victor Ihunwo, representing Port Harcourt City III Constituency; Michael Chinda (Obio/Akpor Constituency II) and Kelechi Nwogu (Omuma Constituency). Also invited are former chairman of Emohua Local Government, Mr. Emeka Woke; a female journalist identified as Oluchi; General Manager, Nigerian Television Authority (NTA), Port Harcourt and General Manager, 92.3 FM, Port Harcourt. Justice Georgewill explained that only three memoranda have so far been submitted by the following persons: Speaker of the House of Assembly, Otelemaba Amachree; Leader of the House, Chidi Lloyd and the 25 members of the Assembly, to the commission. “The Judicial Commission be-

lieves, having taken this step to ensure due notice of the allegations made against some named persons and organisations by due publication, all those whose names or organisations were mentioned in those memos would seize the opportunity of this publication to respond to those memos and submit their response to the Judicial Commission through the Secretary of the Judicial Commission of Inquiry.” Meanwhile, the leadership of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in Rivers State has alleged that the notion of insecurity in the state is the creation of Governor Chibuike Amaechi to discredit the efforts of the police and other security operatives in furtherance of his insistence on getting the Police Commissioner, Mbu, transferred. In a statement signed by the Special Adviser on Media to the State PDP chairman, Jerry

Needam, the party said Amaechi’s claim contradicts his continued assurances to prospective foreign investors of prevailing peace and conducive atmosphere for investment, wondering if he could be referring to another state

Ombatse group ordains 21 new priests • We’re not aware, say leaders From Msugh Ityokura, Lafia HE Ombatse cultural group in Nasarawa State has reportedly ordained 21 new priests in a bid to consolidate and spread its tentacles beyond the Eggon ethnic communities. The group, before the latest ceremony, had been operating with one notable priest, Lega Agu (alias Baba Alakyo) in a village, 18 kilometers away from Lafia, the state capital. It was gathered that the ceremony which recently took

‘APC govs not opposed to council autonomy’ ROM the All Progressives Fdenial Congress (APC) has come that its governors are against autonomy for local governments, as reported in a section of the media yesterday, describing such reports as a gross misrepresentation of the governors’ position on the issue. According to APC, the governors are only asking that such autonomy must be deter-

• Faults caretakers for local govts mined by the Houses of Assembly, rather than the National Assembly. ‘’For those who may have been misled by the media reports, we want to state our stand clearly. In the first instance, the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria gives the State Houses of Assembly the power to create

local governments. Therefore, autonomy for local governments should be debated at the Houses of Assembly, not at the National Assembly. ‘’Secondly, giving control of the local governments to the Federal Government, one of the two federating units in a federalist system of government, will only result in the

other than Rivers. Faulting what it called “double speak” of the Amaechi administration, the PDP described the feigned insecurity of lives and property in the state as lacking both in terms and principle.

creation of a unitary government. And thirdly, all local government administration must be democratically elected in a free and fair election, while chairmen and councillors must be accountable to those who elected them,” the party said in a statement issued in Oro, Kwara State, yesterday by its Interim National Publicity Secretary, Alhaji Lai Mohammed.

place on Eggon hills where the group’s shrine is located, had in attendance some notable personalities of Eggon extraction most of whom currently hold critical political office in the country today. Sources confided in The Guardian that the move, apart from spreading the tentacles, is also aimed at achieving the struggle for renaissance having been allegedly sidelined in the scheme of things since the creation of the state over 17 years ago. “We constitute the majority in this state. Our people were also in the fore front in the fight for the creation of this state, and since it was created, we have been completely denied the right to produce a governor despite our numerical strength,” the source said. But the Secretary General of the Eggon umbrella body, Eggon Cultural Development Association (ECDA), Mr. Chris Mamman, said he was not aware of the development.

THE GUARDIAN, Friday, August 16, 2013

6 | NEWS

Health workers may begin strike today From Lawrence Njoku (Enugu) and Joseph Okoghenun, Lagos S the 15 days fresh ultimatum given to the Federal Government to address complaints peculiar to health workers in tertiary health institutions expired yesterday, health professionals under the aegis of the Nigerian Union of Allied Health Professionals (NUAHP) may begin indefinite strike today. According to NUAHP President, Mr. Felix Faniran, the strike will only affect health services in both federal and state owned tertiary health institutions across the federation. The union is made up of pharmacists, physiotherapists, medical laboratory scientists, radiographers, dental technologists, occupational therapists, health information managers, dieticians and other related health professionals in teaching hospitals. In a statement signed and

made available to The Guardian in Lagos yesterday by Faniran and other executive members of the union, the health professionals directed its members across the federation to form strike monitoring committee and picket affected hospitals. According to the statement, some of the demands of the health workers include that the appointment of chief medical directors should include health care professionals who are full time staff of teaching hospitals as against the current practice of appointment of only medical doctors who double as lecturers in universities; the immediate abolition of the office of deputy chairman, medical advisory committee (CMAC) and deputy head of clinical services in tertiary hospitals, and promotion of health professionals from deputy directors to directors. Other demands include immediate stoppage of the cur-

rent practice of appointing university lecturers as CMAC and head of clinical departments in hospitals; removal of Minister of Health, Prof. Chukwu Onyebuchi; immediate release of interview results conducted for three health professionals in University Teaching Hospital (UCH) for the position of directors and enhancement of entry point for medical laboratory science interns from Consolidated Health Salary Scale 07 (CONHESS07) to CONHESS08. Meanwhile, Health Reform Foundation of Nigeria (HERFON) said yesterday that the Midwives Service Scheme (MSS) has suffered a setback in the Southeast following the non-remittance of the counterpart funding by various state governments in the zone. HERFON’s Zonal Programme Officer, Mr. Chris Amalu, who disclosed this in Enugu, said the non-remittance of their part of the counterpart fund-

ing by the state governments had resulted to the non-payment of allowances due to the midwives engaged under the scheme. Explaining that the development had led to poor retention and attrition of the trained human resources for health, he added that the midwives lacked decent accommodation in the communities where they reside. He said, “HERFON is advocating that the Governors of the South-East states should emulate their counterparts in the North and show full commitment and political will to the Memorandum of Understand they all signed under the scheme. The SURE-P Maternal and Child Health (MCH) fund is to add onto the achievements of the MSS. Thus, apart from the MSS counterpart fund, the state governments should be further interrogated on their utilization of the 45 per cent share of the SURE-P fund that

is directly remitted to states from Federal to ensure probity and accountability”. Amalu said that the deplorable health status of the country’s health system led the Federal Government in 2009 to introduce the MSS through the National Primary Health Care Development Agency (NPHCDA) arguing, however, that poor maternal and child health indices has continued as the most serious development challenges facing the country. The MSS which has an MoU signed by the three tiers of government in the country aims to facilitate an increase in the coverage of Skilled Birth Attendance (SBA) to reduce maternal, newborn and child mortality. It is designed to mobilise midwives, including newly qualified, unemployed and retired midwives, for deployment to selected primary health care facilities in rural communities.

NMA moves to make Nigerians first beneficiaries of new malaria vaccines From Abiodun Fagbemi, Ilorin IGERIAN Medical AssociaN tion (NMA) has commenced moves to ensure that Nigerians would be the first beneficiaries of the newly discovered vaccines for malaria fever. The World Health Organisation (WHO) in its latest health statistics disclosed that people living in Africa and Mediterranean mostly suffered the malaria scourge. According to the chairman of Kwara State Chapter of the NMA, Prof. Olayinka Buhari, yesterday at the Annual General Meeting of the local branch in Ilorin, the national body of the medical association had already contacted the inventors of the vaccine when the news broke out.

NDLEA boss tasks all in fight against drug trade From Inemesit Akpan-Nsoh, Uyo HE Chairman/Chief ExecuT tive of National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA), Ahmadu Giade has asserted that, unless concerted efforts are put in place by all to exterminate drug trade or cartel, the world may not be safe for people to live. Giade said at a national symposium on substance abuse and drug control in Nigeria, organised by Centre for Research and Information on Substance Abuse (CRISA), held in Uyo, Akwa Ibom State yesterday that, the huge resources generated from drug trade are sometimes diverted to sponsoring terrorism, arm smuggling and political violence.

Ekiti reduces land use charges From Muyiwa Adeyemi, Ado Ekiti KITI State Government has E announced the reduction of charges on land development by 40 per cent to attract investors and encourage the residents to develop properties in the state. Making the disclosure yesterday in Ado Ekiti after the weekly State Executive Council meeting, the Commissioner for House, Physical Planning and Urban Development, Mr. Remi Olorunleke, said the reduction would affect approvals on plans on both residential and commercial buildings.

Jonathan and Traore during the ceremony in Mali… yesterday.

Jonathan urges African leaders to promote democracy From Mohammed Abubakar and Azimazi Momoh Jimoh, Abuja RESIDENT Goodluck P Jonathan yesterday restated the commitment of Nigeria towards ensuring a vibrant political and economic relationship with other African countries. To achieve this objective, he believed that African countries must continue to make the necessary sacrifice for the growth of the continent. The President made the remark at the Presidential Villa after being conferred with the highest national honour of Grand Cross of the National Order of Mali by the Government of the Republic of Mali in appreciation of the roles played by Nigeria and her leader towards ensuring the

• Gets highest Mali honour return of democracy to that country. The decision to award Jonathan with the highest honour, according to the Interim President of Mali, Prof. Diogunda Traore, was to show appreciation to Nigeria and the President as a person for the huge sacrifice made by Nigeria towards an early restoration of democracy to his country. Speaking through an interpreter, the Malian leader said, “ We know how much your country suffers also from terrorism. We know how much Nigeria has needs of its troops, of her soldiers and all the soldiers at her disposal to ensure internal security against forces of evil, who have continued to attack innocent citi-

zens. However, in spite of this internal need and pressure, your country has not hesitated to put at the disposal of Mali her soldiers and her logistics. “Today, thanks to you for your solidarity besides your neighbours and the solidarity of ECOWAS and African Union as well as the international community, Mali has found peace again, Mali has found again her unity and her democracy which were compromised for long months.” Jonathan described the award to him as a symbol of smooth and vibrant relationship between Nigeria and Mali and stressed the need for it to be sustained. His words: “Your presence here today as well as the highest honour which you have bestowed on me, both at-

test to the vibrancy and the relationship that exists between the government and the people of Mali and Nigeria.” Also, President Jonathan stressed yesterday the need for improved economic relations to deepen bilateral ties between Argentina and Sri Lanka. Receiving letters of credence from the new Ambassador of Argentina to Nigeria, Mr. Gustavo Alejandro Dzugala and the new High Commissioner of Sri Lanka to Nigeria, Mr. Panagoda Don Prince Solomon Anura Liyanage, at separate audiences in the State House, President Jonathan said while Nigeria had good diplomatic ties with these countries, the economic relations needed to be strengthened. A statement from the office of his spokesman, Dr.

Reuben Abati quoted the President as observing, “While the economic diplomatic ties with the countries are strong, the linkages are weak and as such everything possible must be done to boost economic ties.” The Argentinian Ambassador said during his audience that President Cristina Fernandez de Kirchner was desirous of improving relations with Nigeria and had approved the building of a permanent embassy in Abuja as a demonstration of that commitment. He also disclosed that a high-level trade delegation from Argentina would soon visit Nigeria. Meanwhile, Speaker of the Parliament of the Economic Community of West African States, (ECOWAS) and Deputy Senate President, Senator Ike Ekweremadu yesterday also congratulated Ibrahim

Declare state of emergency in education, CODER tells govt By Seye Olumide HE convener of Coalition of T Democrats for Electoral Reform (CODER), Ayo Opadokun yesterday reiterated the call on Federal Government to declare a state of emergency in the education sector. Expressing worry over the persistent face-off between the Federal Government and Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU), poor funding of education and budgeting, collapse of infrastructure and moribund academic equipment and methodology, corruption in the sector among others, Opadokun said that no serious nation would allow its education system get to where ours is today, adding that the current impasse is capable of jeopardising the future, career and worse still the intellectual ability of “our younger generations.”

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THE GUARDIAN, Friday, August 16, 2013

No going back on strike, say UNIJOS teachers From Isa Abdulsalami Ahovi (Jos) and Iyabo Lawal (Ibadan) HERE may be no end yet to the ongoing strike embarked upon by the Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU) as the University of Jos (UNIJOS) chapter yesterday vowed to continue until the Federal Government implements the 2009 agreement entered by the two parties. In a related development, former Petroleum Minister, Professor Tam David-West, yesterday insisted that the Federal Government must fund public education, saying that any government, which fails to invest in the sector is not a serious one. The UNIJOS ASUU Chairman, Dr. David Nansoh Jangka, stated this yesterday while speaking with journalists on the one-month action. According to Jangka, it has been four years since an agreement was signed with the Federal Government to release N100 billion yearly to fund private and public universities, adding that after 18 months, since the memorandum of understanding (MoU) was signed, no kobo has been released. He said the fund is to

improve on the existing infrastructure such as theatres, laboratories, hostels and libraries and not for the lecturers’ extra allowances. Jangka added: “We are determined to pursue this struggle to the end. In fact, in certain quarters, we would have advised them (the Federal Government) for once to close down the system like it happened in Ghana. Two years, three years when you fix the

David-West insists on govt’s funding of education facilities, we will come back. It is basically on that infrastructure in the university system. You can see for yourselves the University of Jos. Despite the big names they call in the University of Jos, just go round, what do we have?” David-West added: “Any government that fails to invest in education is a vagabond government. The problem with

Nigeria is that we have more thieves than saints in government. We drill over two million barrels of crude oil per day. Why should we be poor? ASUU is saying, put money in education to improve its quality for our children and those yet unborn. The same government that does not have money for education budgeted one billion each to feed the

Delta community raises the alarm over toxic waste From Hendrix Oliomogbe, Asaba N alarm has been raised that over 40 dumps suspected to be toxic waste have been discovered in a bush at Olloh-Ossissa, along the

Ughelli-Ogwashi Uku Road in Ndokwa-East Council of Delta State. For the act, some suspects, who reportedly work for an oil company operating in the area, have been apprehended

by the community leaders where three lorries conveying substances suspected to be lethal toxic waste, were recently detained. Irked by the ugly development, the President of Ndok-

Rep seeks probe of airlines fund From Muyiwa Adeyemi, Ado-Ekiti MEMBER of the House of Representatives, Bimbo Daramola, has said it was imperative for the National Assembly to probe the alleged N186 billion Power Airlines Intervention Fund (PAIF) given as stimulus package to

some individuals and private companies by the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN). Speaking with journalists in Ado-Ekiti, Ekiti State capital yesterday, Daramola, who is representing Ekiti-North Federal Constituency 1, said the package, which was disbursed without the approval of the

National Assembly, ended in the hands of private individuals and phantom companies. He said: “There is need to investigate the N186 billion given to 15 companies under PAIF. This is practically shoving money into the pockets of 15 people. And this is Nigerian money.

Jonathan tasked on new NDDC appointments ARELY two weeks after B President Goodluck Jonathan’s appointment of Mrs. Christiana Atako as Acting Managing Director (MD/Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC), he has been enjoined to reconstitute its board in line with the Act setting up the agency and equity. Controversy is already dogging the imminent reconstitution. The bone of contention is who gets what, especially the top positions to be filled by the oil-producing states. Dr. Atako, hitherto its Director of Education, Health and Social Services, took over from Dr. Chris Oboh, whose tenure expired. Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF), Anyim Pius Anyim, conveyed the President’s decision to the NDDC’s Chairman, Dr. Tarilah Tebepah, in a letter he read at its governing board’s valedictory session recently. NDDC was established by an Act in June 2000 to take care of the incessant agitation from the oil producing communities in various states of the federation especially, the Niger Delta. The activities of the commission are expected to be managed and carried out on a dayto-day basis by a properly constituted Executive Team who are also members of the board. The board comprises the chairman, MD, Executive Director (Finance and Administration) and the Executive Director (Projects). Part 1 Section 2 of the Act states as follows: • There is hereby established for the Commission a Governing Board (in this Act referred to as (“the Board”), which shall consist of: (a) a chairman; (b) One person who shall be an indigene of an oil produc-

President and Vice President for a year. Are they eating rock in Aso Rock? If you went to school without shoes, ensure that your children have shoes. Good parents pray that their children must be better than them.” The former minister, who spoke at a Town Hall meeting organised by University of Ibadan (UI) chapter of ASUU, also berated the Coordinating Minister of the Economy, Dr.

ing area to represent each of the following member states - Abia, Akwa-Ibom, Bayelsa, Cross River, Delta, Edo State, Imo, Ondo and Rivers; (c) Three persons to represent non-oil mineral producing states provided that such membership should be drawn from the remaining geo-political zones which are not represented in the Commission; (d) One representative of petroleum-producing companies in the Niger-Delta nominated by the oil companies; (e) One person to represent the Federal Ministry of Finance; (f) One person to represent Federal Ministry of Environment; (g) The Managing Director of the Commission; and (h) Two Executive Directors; An oil industry expert from the region who spoke on the matter, Mr. Ogheneovo Ogaga, said: “The last NDDC Board has recently completed its tenure, and it has become pertinent to take a cursory look at the next set of appointments to be made in order to ensure that it is in conformity with the Act, and is not unduly encumbered by political intrigues and unnecessary distractions. “Part 1 Section 4 of the Act is as follows: The office of the Chairman shall rotate among the member states of the Commission in the alphabetical order stated above, beginning with Abia and ending with Rivers. “In accordance with the Act, the first Chairman of Board was from Abia followed by Akwa Ibom and the last Board had Bayelsa as chairman. Based on the provisions of the Act, Cross River arguably is to produce the next chairman. “Part IV, Section 12 of the Act states that ‘There shall be for the commission a Managing

Director, and two Executive Directors who shall be indigenes of oil producing areas starting with the member states of the commission with the highest producing quantum of oil and shall rotate amongst member states in the order of producing. As it is today, the current order of oil production in the Niger Delta States, starting with the highest producer is as follows: Akwa Ibom, Rivers, Delta, Bayelsa, Ondo, among others.” He added: “With the Act as a guide, therefore, The next board to be constituted should therefore have an MD as an indigene of Akwa Ibom State with the highest production quantum, while the two Executive Directors: Executive Director, Finance and Administrations (EDFA) and Executive Director Project (EDP) should come from Rivers and Delta respectively since Rivers and Delta states have not held these portfolios since the establishment of this commission.” Another commentator on Niger Delta affairs, John Ayu, said: “Since the tenure of the former board ended a couple of weeks ago, state governors, politicians and professionals of various endeavours are already involved in consultations and power-play to position their interests. However, President Jonathan is empowered by the Act to appoint the MD and the two Executive Directors subject to the confirmation of the Senate in consultation with the House of Representatives.” He added: “In essence, and in the current realm of subjecting all matters to the rule of Law, appointments into the Executive Board of NDDC should be driven by the clear and unambiguous provisions of the Act, and not be predicated on any form of bias, parochialism or nepotism. They should be based

squarely on fairness, equity and justice that will bring about significant improvement in the social, economic, political and cultural landscape of the Niger Delta and Nigeria.”

wa-East Coastal Towns and Communities Consultative Forum, Mr. George Bucknor, has petitioned the Federal and state governments to prevail on the oil companies to evacuate the substance immediately to save the people from the negative impact of the highly toxic material. Again, Bucknor called on authority of the Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation (NNPC) to compel the erring oil companies to stop further dumping of the material on unauthorised places and to evacuate the one already dumped. The Delta State Police Public Relations Officer, Mr. Lucky Uyabeme, confirmed the arrest, saying that the drivers of the trucks and the vehicles are currently being detained at the Ogwashi Uku Police Station. Uyabeme said the police are making arrangements to send the materials for laboratory analysis to actually determine if they were harmful substances.

Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala, over her comments on the 2009 agreement signed with the university teachers. David-West alleged that Okonjo-Iweala was paid in foreign currency during the Olusegun Obasanjo administration, which amounted to about two million naira in a month without her rejecting it or insisting she must be paid in naira to improve our economy.

Ex-minister lauds Obi over development From Uzoma Nzeagwu, Awka N elder statesmen and forA mer Aviation Minister in the First Republic, Chief Mbazulike Amaechi, yesterday declared that Ndigbo and Nigeria needed people like Governor Peter Obi to build a new socio-political and national consciousness. Amaechi, who spoke with reporters shortly after the flagoff of the 3- Billion Naira Afor Ukpor-Umunuko-Nza Ozubulu road, added that the country needed dedicated leaders like Obi. He expressed gratitude to the governor for meeting the needs of the people through massive road reconstruction, noting that the community had suffered over the years because of deplorable roads and difficult topography. The former minister, who recalled that Ndigbo led and championed the struggle for Nigeria’s independence, reported that the people were today relegated to the background. He stressed that Governor Obi had a fundamental role in reversing the ugly trend.

THE GUARDIAN, Friday, August 16, 2013

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Jonathan congratulates Malian President-elect From Mohammed Abubakar, Abuja RESIDENT Goodluck P Jonathan has sent a congratulatory message to the

Panel Chairman, Prof. G.G. Darah (left); Special Adviser to the President on Niger Delta and Chairman, Presidential Amnesty Programme, Kingsley Kuku and Chief of the Naval Staff, Vice Admiral Dele Joseph Ezeoba, during the conference on Oil Theft and Illegal Bunkering in the Niger Delta at Eko Hotel in Lagos… yesterday. PHOTO: GABRIEL IKHAHON

Labour Party may shift Anambra guber primaries From Leo Sobechi (Abakaliki) and Uzoma Nzeagwu (Awka) and Tunde Akinola (Lagos) HERE are indications that T the leadership of Labour Party (LP) may shift the gubernatorial primaries election to select its standard-bearer for the November 16, 2013, gubernatorial election in Anambra State from August 19 to 28, 2013. Meanwhile, a human rights group, International Society for Civil Liberties and the Rule of Law (Intersociety), has expressed doubts over the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) and the Anambra State Independent Electoral Commission (ANSIEC) ability to conduct hitchfree polls in the state. In a related development, a governorship aspirant of the LP in Anambra State, Ifeanyi Ubah, has stressed the need to develop the state’s power sector, noting that power supply is critical to the social-economic well being of any society Investigations by The Guardian revealed that the decision to reschedule the primaries election stems from intense pressures being exerted on the party’s leadership both in Abuja and Awka, “to accommodate the interest of other aspirants who want to contest the governorship on LP platform”. A source within the Abuja headquarters of the party confided in The Guardian that “certain overtures and demands have been made for

• ‘INEC, state electoral body not ready for polls’ • Ubah pledges better power supply the party to shift the governorship primaries to a date later than August 19, 2013”, adding that the shift would also disabuse the minds of “critical stakeholders” that the ticket has been sold to a particular aspirant. He indicated that no less than five aspirants from other political parties may likely join the race for the LP ticket, pointing out that the pressure on the party to extend the date for the primaries is also to receive new members into the party. However, when contacted, the state LP Chairman, Mr. Sam Osi Oraegbunam, denied that the plan to shift the date of the primaries was just to accommodate disgruntled aspirants from the PDP, explaining that “when the change of date comes, it will be in the interest of better organisation and logistics provision”. Oraegbunam, who spoke with The Guardian, noted that LP was mindful of the challenges of unrestrained admission of all manner of contenders. He said it was also erroneous to give the impression that attempts were being made to receive aspirants that could displace the foremost contender, Ubah. “Sometimes democracy makes an organization look stupid but as a political party we listen to all shades of opin-

ion and at the end of the day, the majority would have its way. So what is happening is that we want to allow everybody a say in how the party is run; it is the owners of the party, the people; that have the final decision,” he added. He stressed that though the party has no problem with Ubah’s aspiration, it does not want to foreclose the ticket to only him pointing out that the present pressures on the party was “a test of LP’s resilience and internal democratic credentials”. A statement signed by the Chairman, Board of Directors of Intersociety, Mr. Emeka Umeagbalasi, in Awka yesterday, wondered if INEC has complied with electoral law in reviewing voters’ register, among other things. The group further expressed doubts if there are scientific and verifiable records showing “continuous registration of qualified persons and revision and updating of the voters’ register by INEC at publicly designated centres by public notice in any part of Anambra State since 2011.” They said they have observed a breach of Sections 9(1) and 10(1) of the Electoral Act of the Federal Republic of Nigeria 2010. “By Section 9(5) of the said Electoral Act, registration of qualified persons or those who have attained the voting

age of 18 years and above in the state since 2011 is supposed to end by September 16, 2013; 60 days before the governorship polls. “Yet thousands of qualified persons have remained unregistered, it insisted, and besides, the fate of those whose voters cards got lost, torn, defaced or damaged, particularly in Ogbaru, Ayamelum, Anambra East, Anambra-West and Oyi councils, affected by the 2012 flood still hangs in the balance barely three months to the elections”, it said. On ANSIEC, the group said it was concerned that the electoral body will have to depend on the National Register of Voters for the council polls slated for October 5, 2013 in the State. According to the statement, by law, no local council polls can be conducted without INEC’s Voters’ Register, wondering if ANSIEC, which is mandated to apply, has reached out to the Commission for the release of the state’s version of the register. Umeagbalasi insisted that INEC was mandated to issue an updated, revised “certify true copy” of the register, and wondered if the electoral bodies were well prepared to conduct the polls. Ubah who is the Chairman, Capital Oil and Gas Ltd, in a

statement yesterday said development in the power sector would immensely contribute to the progress of small-scale businesses in the state. According to Ubah: “Successive regimes in Anambra have turned deaf ears to the anguish of the people. They sit tight in government quarters, use tax-payers money to ensure uninterrupted diesel supply to their homes and offices, leaving the majority of our poor folks in misery and darkness. “Even keying into the federal power programme has been most difficult for the state government. The state under my watch shall establish an independent power plant on the bank of the River Niger with sufficient electricity generation capacity to meet the needs of the state,” Ubah said. He said his administration, if elected in the would work towards eliminating the current “untidy and unsafe” mode of overhead cabling of electric wires and cables in the state by working with the requisite authorities for the underground laying of electric cables in the state. “We shall reach an agreement with the distribution and transmission licenced by the Nigerian Electricity Regulatory Commission (NERC) to ensure that power produced by our Independent Power Projects (IPP) will be utilised by Anambra people. There is no justifiable reason why the state cannot support commercial activities in Onitsha,” Ubah stated.

Zoning of elective posts undemocratic, says Aminu From Emmanuel Ande, Yola GAIN, the lingering controA versy trailing the desirability or otherwise of the zoning of elective positions in the country yesterday echoed, as former Petroleum Minister, Prof. Jibril Aminu, faulted the policy. Aminu, who spoke with journalists yesterday in his Yola residence, said those championing zoning of elected offices

were not only myopic of the country’s constitution, but also enemies of democracy in Nigeria. He added: “Elected offices, be it President, governor or councilor, are open to all Nigerians. What we should be championing is merit and leadership qualities of those seeking to occupy elected offices, not where the person comes from. Zoning is a political weapon of people without

integrity, track record and politicians that only want power to empower their family members.” Aminu called on Nigerians to reject zoning and vote for people that can rescue them from the claws of poverty. He said those campaigning for either a President from the North or any region, would also lose the battle because the constitution of the country did not recognise zoning

of elected political offices. He also faulted the conditions given by five northern governors that President Goodluck Jonathan should shelve his plan to contest the 2015 polls and that the National Chairman of Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Alhaji Bamanga Tukur, should resign before they sheath their sword. The former minister said the five governors were tourists

and have no powers to decide for their states or Nigerians, adding “the five governors have only five votes; so they cannot even decide who becomes a councillor even if the five of them are all from one ward. So, talking of Presidency is not only a huge joke, but a public also demonstration that they are not serious people and Nigerians should be watching them as Nollywood actors”.

new Mali’s President-elect, Mr. Ibrahim Boubacar Keita, on his victory in last Sunday’s run-off presidential election in that country. Jonathan, in a statement by his Special Adviser on Media and Publicity, Dr. Reuben Abati, commended the people of Mali for successfully conducting the elections and taking a major step towards the full restoration of democratic governance to their country. According to Jonathan, “Nigeria looks forward to the conclusion of the process with Keita’s inauguration as President in keeping with the wish of the Malian people as expressed at the polls on Sunday. “The President believes that having served capably as his country’s Prime Minister for many years, Keita will assume the Malian Presidency with the requisite experience, knowledge and wisdom needed to guide the country towards a speedy return to peace, normalcy, political stability and further develop-

Defence Corps, stakeholders chart path to better security From Msugh Ityokura, Lafia HE Nigeria Security and T Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) has said it is re-strategising to meet up with the challenges of vandalisation and attacks on the country’s assets and infrastructure. As the agency of government statutorily mandated to protect all national assets and infrastructure, the Corps, according to its Commandant in Nasarawa State, Jonathan Iyogho, is not resting on its oars to live up to its responsibility. In a paper presented at a stakeholders’ forum organised by the Corps in Lafia, Nasarawa State capital, Iyogho said the heightened criminality in the society today had placed citizens in the sordid state of fear, which has threatened national security. The paper, titled: “Re-thinking security in the context of the core mandates of the NSCDC”, also highlighted the necessity of the stakeholders’ forum, which is aimed at addressing the continued attacks on the nation’s critical assets and infrastructure.

CRPP denies alleged tension in Edo over policies From Alemma-Ozioruva Aliu, Benin City HE Coalition of Registered T Political Parties (CRPP) yesterday denied reports in the media (Not The Guardian) that there was tension in Edo State over a perceived “unfriendly administrative posture” of Governor Adams Oshiomhole. The Coalition said in its justconcluded quarterly meeting that the report alleging award of contracts without due process was also false, as it noted that such publication “was politically motivated in order to stir sentiments where there is none”.

THE GUARDIAN, Friday, August 16, 2013

Photo News

National President, Nigerian Association of Chambers of Commerce, Industry, Mines and Agriculture(NACCIMA), Muhammad Abubakar(left); Managing Director, Emzor pharmaceutical industries Limited, Dr Stella Okoli and past president Naccima, Engr. Rufai Mohammed at the courtesy visit of Naccima National president to Emzor Managing Director in Lagos yesterday. PHOTO; SUNDAY AKINLOLU

Executive Director Corporate Services Nigerian Deposit Insurance Corporation(NDIC), Honourable Omolola Abiola-Edewor (left); DirectorHuman Resources NDIC, Mohammed Ahmed; and Chief Executive Officer NDIC Umoru Ibrahim during the First Management Parley with Female Employees of NDIC in Abuja. PHOTO: LADIDI LUCY ELUKPO

Managing Director, MLH Global Services Limited (Lacasera Soft Drink) Anil Bapna(left); Regional Managing Partner for West Africa (EY), Henry Egbiki; CEO (EY Africa) Ajen Sita and President, Institute of Chartered Accountants of Nigeria (ICAN) Alhaji Kabir Mohammed, at the Clients’ Evening Cocktail, organised by EY in Lagos.

President, Business Initiative Direction, Jose Priesto (left); Chief Executive Officer, Swiss Biostadt Limited, Emman Ajayi; and President, QC 100, Graig Miller, at the presentation of International Star for Leadership in quality award Gold Category award to Swiss Biostadt, in Paris.

Permanent Secretary, Lagos Television, Lekan Ogunbanwo(left); Chief Executive Officer, Care Organisation Public Enlightenment (COPE), Ebunola Anozie; and Group Managing Director Skye Bank, Kehinde Durosinmi-Etti at the commissioning of cancer screening machine donated by Skye Bank to COPE

Olowoyeye Olorunrinu (left), Titilope Ejimagbwa, Seun Oshofisan, Rita Akubueze, Olowoyeye Oluruniwo and Olowoyeye Kemi during Longrich Nigeria Limited’s award ceremony in Ibadan … recently.

Managing Consultant Thames Valley College, Babatunde Kolade (left) Commissioner for Education Ogun State, Olusegun Odubela and Managing Director Brandeis Ltd, Femi Ashiwaju during the tour of Thames Valley College in Shagamu Ogun State

Super Sport Soccer analyst Segun Agbede (left); General Manager, Marketing and Sales, Multi Choice, Martin Mabutho, General Manager, Super Sport, Chidozie Nwokoye, and Head, Public Relations , Multi Choice Nigeria, Segun Fayose at the briefing to usher in the new soccer season in Lagos PHOTO: FEMI ADEBESIN-KUTI

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THE GUARDIAN, Friday, August 16, 2013

WorldReport Iraq will not become another Syria, vows govt

Egypt’s death toll mounts as chaos continues

Car bombs kill 34, injured 100

ESPITE the deadly crack- Obama condemns bloodshed, cancels joint military exercise D down on their members by Egyptian security forces, Morsi.

RAQ’S Interior Ministry has vowed never to allow al Qaeda, which it blames for a surge in sectarian violence, to turn the country into another Syria. The pledge came yesterday after about 34 people were killed and more than 100 wounded in at least eight blasts in Baghdad, one of which was near the “Green Zone” diplomatic complex – part of a wave of bloodshed that has taken the monthly death toll in Iraq to the highest levels in five years. “Iraq’s streets have become a battleground for sectarian people who are motivated by hatred and religious edicts and daring to kill innocent people,” Reuters cited the Interior Ministry as saying in an unusually frank statement. “It is our destiny to win this battle which is aimed at destroying the country and turning it into another Syria,” the ministry said. However, earlier yesterday it put the death toll far lower, at three dead and 44 wounded. Mainly Sunni Muslim rebels have been fighting for more than two years to topple Syrian President Bashar al-Assad, whose Alawite minority support base is a branch of Shi’ite

supporters of Muslim Brotherhood yesterday stormed and torched a government building in Cairo while families tried to identify hundreds of mutilated bodies piled in a Cairo mosque a day after they were shot dead by the security forces. But while Egypt’s interim government stated that 525 people were killed and thousands wounded in the worst day of civil violence in the modern history of the most populous Arab state, Brotherhood supporters countered. Agency reports quoted the Islamists as saying the death toll was far higher, with hundreds of bodies yet uncounted for by the authorities whose troops and police crushed protests seeking the return of deposed President Mohamed

Meanwhile, international condemnations yesterday continued to rain down on Cairo’s military-backed rulers for ordering the storming of pro-Morsi protest camps after dawn on Wednesday, six weeks after the army overthrew the country’s first freely elected leader. Among them, the United States (U.S.) President Barack Obama strongly condemned the violence and cancelled joint military exercises, arguing that co-operation could not continue while civilians were being killed. Also, U.S. auto giant General Motors said yesterday that it has shuttered its Cairo office and stopped production due to the unrest in Egypt. “We made the decision to close our Cairo office and halt

production operations in our plant in 6th October City,” a GM spokesman said in a statement. “The safety and security of our employees is of paramount importance to us. We will continue to monitor the situation closely.” GM produces light duty trucks, passenger cars and minibuses in Egypt and employs more than 14,000 Egyptians, the company said. Speaking from his holiday home in Martha’s Vineyard, Obama condemned the interim Egyptian government’s actions in ordering security forces to break up the protest camps. Announcing the cancellation of joint military exercises scheduled for later this month, he said co-operation with Egypt could not con-

tinue as normal while civilians were being killed on the streets and rights were being rolled back. He said that Egypt was on a dangerous path, and he called for it to reject violence and adopt a process of national reconciliation. But he added: “We don’t take sides with any party or political figure.” Meanwhile, Egypt’s interior ministry has now authorised police to use live ammunition in attacks against them. On Wednesday, security forces broke up Muslim Brotherhood protesters who were demanding the reinstatement of President Mohammed Morsi, with at least 500 people killed nationwide. The Brotherhood members had been protesting for weeks about the army’s over-

Somalia investigates alleged rape by AMISOM soldiers UTHORITIES in Somalia A yesterday said they were investigating the alleged rape

Ban Ki-moon urges patience over IsraeliPalestinian talks NITED Nations (UN) SecU retary General Ban Kimoon has urged Israelis and Palestinians to have “patience” with their peace talks so that they might have a chance to succeed. After holding talks in Amman with Jordanian Foreign Minister Nasser Judeh, Ban stressed the UN’s support for peace talks between the two sides, which resumed in Jerusalem on Wednesday. He “called on the Israelis and the Palestinians to have patience and do all that they can for the success of their negotiations and achieve the needed progress with the help of the international community,” a report by state agency, Petra, stated. “Ban stressed that the United Nations supports and encourages the continuation of Israeli-Palestinian peace talks, leading to a twostate solution,” Petra added. Negotiators met for around five hours on Wednesday in a new round of direct peace talks, which broke down nearly three years ago in a bitter row over Jewish settlements The United States took the lead last month in securing an agreement to resume negotiations. Ban also met with King Abdullah II and discussed the peace process and the Syrian refugees the kingdom is hosting, a palace statement said.

throw of Morsi in July. In the latest violence yesterday, hundreds of Brotherhood members set fire to a government building near Cairo. Local TV footage showed firefighters evacuating employees from the building - which housed the offices of the Giza local government. State-run Nile News TV also reported clashes between Brotherhood members and residents in a suburb of Alexandria. At least four Egyptian soldiers were shot dead by unknown gunmen near the city of el-Arish in the Sinai region. Though government said 525 people died nationwide on Wednesday, but the final toll is likely to be significantly higher. Scores of bodies have not been registered, because the official count only includes bodies, which have passed through hospitals.

Emergency personnel at the site of a car bomb between the Bir el-Abed and Roueiss neighbourhoods, in the southern suburb of Beirut…yesterday. The car bomb killed 14 people and wounded 200 others in the Beirut stronghold of Lebanon’s Shiite movement, Hezbollah. PHOTO: AFP

of Somali woman by soldiers belonging to an African Union peacekeeping force. The woman was allegedly attacked at Maslah Military Camp in the capital, Mogadishu, a week ago, a statement from the prime minister’s office said. “The Somali government will not tolerate violation of human rights, in particular sexual violence towards the most vulnerable members of our society and perpetrators will be dealt with to the fullest extent of the law,” Prime Minister Abdi Farah Shirdon was quoted as saying at a meeting with his senior cabinet members. The prime minister has ordered an investigation into the allegation. The African Union Mission to Somalia, AMISOM, said it had formed a joint team with the Somali National Army to look into the claims.

New Saudi Arabia-supplied missiles boost rebels battle against Assad’s forces OURCES among Syrian Washington Post claims website hacked by pro-Damascus group Sdiplomatic rebels, intelligence and community yesterday confirmed that the opposition forces have fired newly acquired anti-tank guided missiles supplied by Saudi Arabia in a significant boost to their battle against President Bashar al-Assad. Several Russian-designed Konkurs anti-tank weapons were used in a rebel attack this week on an army position in Deraa city near the Jordanian border, said a source in a rebel brigade linked to the Westernbacked Supreme Military Council. Missiles were also fired around Laja, a rebel stronghold in the rugged region stretching north to the outskirts of Damascus, according to Faiq al Aboud, a member of

the Al-Mutasem Bi’Allah brigade whose account was corroborated by other fighters. However, the Washington Post said yesterday its website was hacked by the Syrian Electronic Army, becoming the latest media organisation victimised by the group that backs strongman Bashar alAssad. A note to readers said the Post website “was hacked today, with readers on certain stories being redirected to the site of the Syrian Electronic Army.” The Post said it was “working to resolve the issue.” The hacker group has been linked to attacks on the websites or Twitter feeds of numerous media organisations,

including Agence France Presse, The Financial Times, the Associated Press and the satirical news site, The Onion. Earlier this week, the hackers hit the Facebook and Twitter accounts of the New York Post. The group has claimed the news media has been biased in its coverage of the deadly conflict in Syria. Meanwhile, he recent flow of Saudi-backed arms reflects concerns in Riyadh at the slow pace of progress by rebels in the south and concern that al Qaeda-linked groups could exploit the stalemate to expand their presence, said a Western diplomatic source. Rebels have faced a series of setbacks in central Syria as Assad’s troops retook towns

and city districts with support from Iran and Lebanese Hezbollah fighters. The army has also consolidated its presence in towns across southern Syria – which has always had strong military presence because of its proximity to the Israeli-occupied Golan Heights - after rebels made significant gains in the region. Rebels and military experts said the Konkurs, with a range of four km (2.5 miles), offers a strategic edge over Assad’s better equipped forces which rely on hundreds of Russian T-72 tanks and older models to launch ground attacks and control cities. Other experts said rebel fortunes could be tied to how

many more portable missile systems the rebels can get in the coming months, such as the Konkurs, Kornet anti-tank guided missiles (ATGM) and Red Arrow 8 missiles. “If the weapons arrive in the right quantities they will affect the situation on the ground,” said retired Jordanian general Fayez al Dwiri. The Saudi-financed missile shipments arrived in the last few weeks through Jordan after months of quiet Saudi pressure to prod Amman to open a supply route. Jordanian officials privately said they are caught between appeasing the Saudis and the danger of reprisals by Assad, who earlier this year warned Amman it “would be playing with fire” if it supported rebels.

THE GUARDIAN, Friday, August 16, 2013

Politics ‘Why INEC can’t recognise factional chairman in Anambra’ By Tunde Akinola HE Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has given reasons why it would not withdraw its letter recognising Mr. Ejike Ogbuebego as the chairman of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in Anambra State. The commission said it was bound by a recent order of the Federal High Court, Port Harcourt, restraining it from recognising or dealing with Mr. Ken Emeakayi as the chairman of the party in the state. Meanwhile, the electoral body has sworn-in its first female Secretary, Mrs. Augusta Chinwe Ogakwu, a fortnight ago, precisely on August 1, 2013. Her well-deserved appointment, going by her sparkling credentials, coincides with a time when there is a global campaign for women to be given positions of responsibility. “The clamour itself has been predicated on the fact that women, when challenged by high office, show a high sense of purpose, comport themselves with integrity and add value to society,” the commission said in its DAILY bulletin of August 12, 2013. The letter recognising Mr. Ogbuebego as the chairman of the PDP in Anambra State was dated July 26,2013 and referenced: INEC/EPM/PDP/24/153). Accordingly, in a statement in Abuja, the commission gave reasons why it would stand by its earlier decision. The full text of the statement reads: • The Peoples Democratic Party conducted State Congress in Anambra State in 2010 at which Chief Emma Nweze emerged as its State Chairman, Chief Cosmos Agagbo, deputy chairman; Chief Chuba Egolum, vice chairman (Central); Emmanuel Mbamalu, vice chairman (North); and Prince Ken Emeakayi vice chairman (South). • The circumstances surrounding the subsequent letter of resignation of Chief Emma Nweze as the state chairman of the PDP were not conveyed to the Commission by the PDP. • There are records and judgments of courts attached to the letters by the party indicating that Chief Emma Nweze resigned from the party. Thereafter, parallel executives sprang up in the party in Anambra State and Prince Ken Emeakayi claimed to have been elected by the Executive to take over the leadership of the party in Anambra State. However, Hon. Emma Mbamalu similarly claimed to be an elected chairman of the party in Anambra State but did not state how he was elected. • The party on the 3rd March, 2012 conducted Ward Congresses, which failed to comply with its guidelines, and the Commission wrote to the party indicating as such. Subsequently, the Anambra State PDP Ward Congress was repeated on 7th March, 2012 and the Commission report confirmed compliance. • However, the Commission inadvertently continued to mention Anambra State in subsequent letters to the PDP among the states where the congresses did not comply with the Party Guidelines. This omission created the impression that the Commission was contradicting itself when it removed Anambra State from the list of states that failed to properly conduct Ward Congresses in 2012. • On March 17th 2012, the PDP conducted State Congress in Anambra State at which Ejike Ogbuebego was elected as state chairman of the party. Both the PDP and the Commission continued to accord recognition to Ejike Ogbuebego as state chairman of the PDP in Anambra State. The National Chairman of the PDP (Dr. Bamanga Tukur) had, in a correspondence dated 8th May, 2013, forwarded the name of Ejike Ogbuebego as the state chairman of the PDP in Anambra State. Consistent with the above position of the PDP, when the Commission requested the National Headquarters of the PDP to send its Anambra State chairman to the Commission for the Anambra State Governorship Stakeholders’ Meeting on 18th June, 2013, the PDP was represented at that meeting by Ejike Ogbuebego as the state chairman of the PDP in Anambra State. The Commission received a letter from the Acting National Chairman of the PDP (Rt. Hon. Chibudom Nwuchie, OFR) on 31st July, 2013, asking the Commission to withdraw recognition of Ejike Ogbuebego in favour of Ken Emeakayi. • It is instructive to note that the Commission does not have record on the resignation of Chief Emma Nweze

any other person but him as the Anambra State chairman of the PDP. However, on the 31st day of March, 2013, the Federal High Court, Awka granted an order maintaining status quo in all cases pending in the Court. • The Commission was on 7th August, 2013 served with yet another ex parte Order issued by the Federal High Court, Port Harcourt in suit No. FHC/PH/CS/213/2013 between Ejike Oguebego & 2 Ors vs. PDP & INEC in which the Commission was restrained from accepting, dealing with, recognising or doing anything with Ken Emeakayi as the PDP chairman in Anambra State pending the hearing of the Motion on Notice, which is adjourned to 20th August, 2013. • The Commission has taken due consideration of all the cases above referred and the following: a. That the Commission, not being a party to the suit in the High Court of the FCT, which nullified the congress at which Ejike Ogbuebego was elected, is not bound by the judgment; b. That the Commission did not monitor the process that brought in Ken Emeakayi as the Anambra State Chairman of the PDP; c. The order of the Federal High Court, which ordered and quo; status the to return a d. The recent order of the Federal High Court, Port Harcourt, which restrained the Commission from recognising or dealing with Ken Emeakayi as the chairman of the PDP in Anambra State. • The Commission has resolved that it will not withdraw its letter, reference No. INEC/EPM/PDP/24/1/153 of 26th July, 2013 by which the Commission recognised Tukur Ejike Ogbuebego as the chairman of the PDP in Anambra State and shall be bound by the recent order of the Federal High Court, Port Harcourt. For the time being, the INEC’s inauguration of Mrs. Ogakwu, as the first female Secretary to the Commission, has gone a long way in fulfilling the quest for gender empowerment in government. According to a report in its DAILY Bulletin, the clamour itself has been predicated on the fact that women, when challenged by high office, show a high sense of purpose, comport themselves with integrity and add value to society. “Her appointment is propitious and a win-win situation for the Commission and campaigners of women empowerment when you consider that half of Nigeria’s population is made up of women,” the report said. “Besides, more than half of those who vote on Election Day are women. Mrs. Ogakwu’s appointment is thus most likely to resonate with, and inspire, a large chunk of the Commission’s stakeholders. The report continued: “As we congratulate Mrs. Ogakwu and wish her Godspeed, we must request her INEC Chairman, Prof. Attahiru Jega, inaugurates Mrs. Augusta Chinwe Ogakwu as first female to address some of the challenges that fall within her Secretary of the Commission. Commission. the confront and purview “She must urgently address the almost lack luster nor of how a successor was appointed tween Hon. Uche Ogbonna & 2 Ors vs. PDP communication between the departments and make him. & 4 Ors entered consent judgment in them cohesive and coherent. replace to “She must also improve the communication between By the constitution of the Peoples favour of Ken Emeakayi on a harDemocratic Party, where a holder of an monised Exco of the PDP in Anambra the headquarters and the states so that they are always office resigns from the office, members State but which order was specifically on the same page. “This is very important, as the Commission works asof the Executive Committee of the party said not to be binding on the PDP. at the affected level shall appoint an (INEC was not a party in the suit.) siduously to conduct the 2015 General Elections. Its components must work in concert and be on the same acting successor pending election of a • The High Court of the Federal Capital th wavelength.” substantive holder of that office. The Territory delivered judgment on 5 In addition, Mrs. Ogakwu was advised to further hone tenure of office a person appointed in July, 2012 in Suit No. an acting capacity is pending election FCT/HC/CV/2631/2012 between Emma the processes of re-organisation and restructuring beof the substantive holder of the office. Mbamalu vs. PDP by which the Court de- gan by the Commission, by ensuring that directing • The tenure of office of Ken Emeakayi clared the Ward, Local Government and staff are enabled to execute the briefs/schedules articeffectively terminated on 17th March, State Congresses held in March, 2012 ulated for them by the Commission in a robust and Anambrahealthy manner. 2012 when the PDP conducted State in Ogbuebego Ejike which at State, “Even though not a Commission member, we plead a elect to Congress in Anambra State emerged as state chairman of the PDP, with her to use her good offices to appeal to the Comsubstantive chairman of the party. • Ken Emeakayi obtained ex parte Order Anambra State as null and void and or- mission to revisit the present unhappy condition of on 18th December, 2012, restraining the dered the PDP to conduct other con- work and service for the staff,” the report said. It recalled that: “At the inception of this Commission, Commission from recognising, relat- gresses in Anambra State. The Commission was not a party in the the INEC Chairman, Professor Attahiru Jega, touched ing or dealing with any other person other than himself as the PDP chair- suit. The Commission notes with ab- by the plangent condition of the staff, had solemnly horrence the deliberate concealment pledged to improve the condition of work for the staff man, Anambra State. of the above judgment, the revelation in interactive sessions he had with them at the Merit PDP the This order was obtained after conducted the State Congress in March, of the existence of which was made by House. Peoples Democratic Party only on “Doing so now, and especially at the eve of the 2015 2012 at which time the temporary the st 2013. This has imposed serious elections, should spur and motivate the staff to give in July, 31 tenure created in favour of Ken Emeakayi by the PDP constitution had constraints on both the Commission their best and deliver elections that are even better and the party. and more credible than those of 2011. expired. th “Let it be said, five years hence, that Mrs. Ogakwu’s • The High Court of Anambra State on • Ken Emeakayi had on 18 December, 21st March, 2012, in Suit No. A/171/2011 be- 2012 obtained ex parte Order, restrain- tenure as Secretary to the Commission made the difing the Commission from recognising ference and ushered in an uplifting dawn.”

• Commission inaugurates first female scribe

THE GUARDIAN, Friday August 16, 2013

TheMetroSection ‘Help…our bridge is collapsing!’ • Arowojobe residents cry out to Lagos State Government on imminent collapse of community’s major link bridge By Isaac Taiwo THE smoothness of various link roads from Maryland through Mende to the major entrance of the serene Arowojobe Community apparently swallow up the embarrassment awaiting the motorist shortly after the point of entry into the Community. His being subjected to the protocol of routine screening of vehicles before entry also accentuate his assurance of a jolly ride to his destination, akin to a similar environment of high class city dwellers. His disappointment immediately he leaves the gate at the sight of a sinking bridge he has to cross would no doubt at first envelop him with fear, followed by a great shock. According to the head of the community, the Baale of Arowojobe, Chief Kehinde Arowojobe, the bridge was constructed about 25 years ago. To the community residents’ dismay, it started sinking just about between five and seven years of construction meaning that the first contractor did a shoddy job. The community leader narrated their plight: “Our worry centres on the fact that if this major link-bridge to our community finally sinks, we are automatically cut off from Mende, Mende major market, Onigbongbo among others and this has the tendency of paralyzing the economy and development of our community. “The truth is that knowing the im-

portance of the bridge vis-à-vis the consequence of its total collapse, we intimated the government of the development and, in fairness to the government, measures were immediately taken to address our plight. The contractors subsequently erected a signboard and we heaved a sigh of relief.” “We saw some move by the contractors as if to only jolt us up deceitfully and our hope was dashed.” “Many years later, when we had to contend with flood and the bridge was submerged by flood, we cried again and the government truly came to our aid and the river was dredged. Shortly after that, the signboard was removed and The bridge that was the last we saw of the contrac- The Baale testified to Lagos State Gov- showing their gratitude to the Lagos tors.” ernment’s effort in helping them to State Government by saving the com“The bridge has continued to sink fight the menace of flood and they munity from being cut off from the adgradually and the truth now is that it could now put behind them the losses joining community and from what has started hampering the develop- they have counted. could paralyse the economy of the ment of the community as tippers car- “We enjoy relative peace and think less community. rying between 10 and 20 tons of granite of flood and I have every reason to com- Mr. Felix Okey a member of the comcannot enter the community through mend and give kudos to the Lagos State munity spoke to The Guardian and the sinking bridge.” Government for coming to our aid in pleaded to the Lagos State Government “This is why we are calling on the Lagos the area of flood abatement. We indeed to quickly come to their aid. State Government to once again come appreciate the drainage at Yawe and the “In the next six months, we do not to our rescue,” he said. newly constructed bridge that links know our fate because of the fast sinkHowever, Arowojobe residents have Yawe and Oke Alo. There is a clear difing of the bridge and we would apprethis uncommon trait of the spirit of ference between this year’s and the last ciate government’s quick gratitude to their credit. They were full year’s rainy season. We have every cause intervention,” he said. of praises to the Lagos State Govern- to thank God and appreciate the Lagos Another resident, Prophet ment for saving them from incessant State Government,” he said. Oluwadamilare Akpata also said the flood that had ravaged their commuHowever, like Oliver Twist, the Com- bridge serves as the main entrance to nity several times. munity is asking for another chance of the Community and would therefore

Who killed Sylvanus Okoye? By Odita Sunday HO killed Mr. Sylvanus Ikelie Okoye, a trader in Lagos Island? This is the question on everybody’s lips in Okota, Lagos. It is one brutal killing that the Lagos State Police command is confronted with, though as at yesterday, two persons have been arrested. But his elder brother, Paul Okoye, said no one has been suspected for now pending police investigation into the matter. Sylvanus, 39-year-old bachelor from Abidi, Umu Ochi, Anambra State, was murdered two weeks ago in the pool of his blood in his bedroom at Ezemegbu Drive, Okota, Lagos. His death and killing was unknown to his neighbours until yesterday when his door was opened and his stinking body was discovered. His death has remained a mystery pending police investigation. Not even his family could explain whether the deceased had any business deal with any-

The house where Okoye lived at Okota

• Mystery death in Okota causes panic one. His elder brother who trade in electronics on the same Lagos Island told newsmen that he was startled when he saw the dead body of his brother stinking in the room. Okoye said he was called on telephone and informed that his brother has not been seen in the compound for some days. According to him, “I was called by the landlord that they have not seen my brother for sometime now and that his phone and house key is in their custody. I hurried up and got here. When we opened the door to his flat, we saw his body smelling. A rope was tied on his neck. There was a mortal pestle and a knife on top of his bed, meaning unknown persons must have murdered him. “We are confused now, we have called in the police from Okota Police station, they have collected the knife and pestle. What

I am craving for now is justice. Police should investigate this matter and prosecute all involved. We were told that the Mallam who guard their house was not around on that fateful day, so a certain man dropped the key to my brother’s house and his telephone handset with a woman who sells in front of the house. The Mallam told us that he knows the particular person who dropped the key and that he can identify him anytime he finds him.” Lagos State Police spokesperson, Ngozi Braide, a Deputy Superintendent of police (DSP) told The Guardian on telephone that the matter was being investigated and that the case would soon be transferred to State Criminal Investigation Department, Panti, Yaba for further investigation.

PHOTO: ISAAC TAIWO appreciate the usual government’s assistance by quickly putting the bridge in order. Dr. Ademola Oladosu, Medical Director, King Solomon Hospital asked the government of Lagos State to expedite action before the bridge finally collapses. “We have discovered that the pipes under the bridge are very narrow and refuse had blocked the pipes leading to overflowing of water which have been causing incessant flood. “The bridge has collapsed half-way and should any heavy truck attempt to pass the bridge, it would totally collapse. “As soon as the bridge is put in order and it is raised, there would be free flow of water under the bridge” he added.

Church fellowship group takes outreach to police station HE Biblical injunction ‘Love thy neighbour as thyself’ recently literally came alive when the Ikoyi Home Fellowship Group of New Dawn Baptist Church, Victoria Island, organized an Outreach to the Dolphin Estate Police Station. The outreach team comprised members of the church, medical doctors, and prayer counselors. Items presented to the police included rain-boots, raincoats and torches for night patrol. There was good quality refreshment for all those present. According to the Pastor of the church Rev. Samson Adedokun, “we often tend to forget the fact that members of the police force belong to our society, they are friends, relations, neighbours and therefore deserve expression of love, as we would to our loved

ones.” “In addition to being charged with the responsibility for maintaining law and order, while most of us are in the comfort of our homes, come rain or shine, they are out there patrolling our neighbourhood, streets and highways.”

Pastor Adedokun told members of the Dolphin Estate Police Station the story of the Centurion who came to Jesus for healing. His emphasis was on authority even as he told them that they need the authority of God over their lives, for spiritual renewal, and direction.

Briefs

Opeibi, 87, for burial today

GKS holds youth assembly

HE remains of late Chief T Solomon Opeibi, former councillor, Ikeja Local Council

HE yearly youth assembly of the EO-BLACK Movement T God’s Kingdom Society (GKS) holds N(NBM) of Africa stalwart, tomorrow and Sunday August 18 at Engineer Ferdinand Okojie

and head of Amule Village, Ayobo, Ipaja, Lagos, will be interred in the family compound at Amule Vilage, Ayobo, Ipaja today. Funeral service will be held at the First African Church Mission, St George’s Parish, Ipaja-Awori Diocese, Ipaja by 10:00a.m, followed by a reception at the LASG Vocational Centre (Fela Field), Ipaja, Lagos State. Opeibi

zonal level in Nigeria and abroad. The assembly will feature Bible quiz competitions, choral/musical performances, talk show and sporting activities among others. Chairman of the Executive Board, Bro. Godwin Ifeacho, will deliver an address that will be read at all the centres. The assembly ends with a special thanksgiving service on August 18. In Lagos a combined service will hold on Sunday at 6/8 Ova Street, Olodi Apapa for all Lagos state branches.

Ferago for burial today

(aka Ferago), who died at 41 on August 3, 2013 will be buried today. According to a statement by Kris Kross Meduvie and friends, his body leaves Stella Obasanjo Mortuary in Benin City to his home-town, Uromi, Esan North East Local Goverment Area of Edo State. He is survived by a son, brothers, sisters and mother.

METRO 13

THE GUARDIAN, Friday, August 16, 2013

Army parades fake major in Edo From Alemma-Ozioruva Aliu, Benin EN of the Nigerian Army attached to the Edo state joint security anti-robbery outfit, Operation Thunderstorm yesterday paraded one Kabiru John, who was accused of impersonating as a Major in the Army. The Public Relations Officer, 4th Brigade of the Nigerian Army, Captain Roselyn Managbe who paraded John alongside other criminals at

The fake Major John

the brigade headquarters, said the suspect had perpetrated numerous frauds, including tricking one Ayeni Friday and a consultant to the Edo State government on revenue generation Tony Kabaka into parting with their vehicles. She said Kabaka parted with his Lexus Jeep, in exchange for securing admission into the Nigerian Military School for his son, as promised by the

fake army major. Managbe said the soldiers also arrested suspected armed robbers, including an ex-convict, Monday Aigbe, and a suspected narcotic dealer, Mrs. Josephine Ochini. “On 20 June 2013, one Mr. Ayeni Friday of No 17, Eguaeveon Avenue, Benin City complained to troops of Operation Thunder Storm that he gave his vehicle, a blue Chrysler 300 2005/2006 model without registration number to one Major John Kabiru of 4 Brigade Provost Company for repairs on May 28, 2013. He added that all efforts to retrieve his car from Major Kabiru proved abortive.” “Our preliminary investigation revealed that Mr. Kabiru John had been parading himself as a Major in the Nigerian Army. It was also revealed that he claimed to be serving in 4 Brigade as the Officer Commanding the Provost Company. It was further revealed that he was always seen around dressed in full military gear while involving himself in all forms of shady deals and duping unsuspecting victims.” “Mr. John Kabiru confessed that the Lexus jeep which was recovered from him with registration number EDO BF 607 USL belonged to one Mr. Tony Kabaka of No. 18, Etete GRA, Benin-City. The suspect claimed that he tricked and

collected the Lexus jeep from the victim with the promise that he would secure admission for his son into the Nigerian Military School. He also confessed that he had duped several unsuspecting persons under the pretext of either helping them to join the Nigerian Army or securing admissions for their wards into military institutions,” she said. But John claimed to have joined the army in 2003 and was dismissed in 2006. He also said he graduated in Electrical Engineering, from Nasarrawa State Polytechnic. “I served at 82 Battalion, Jos, but I was dismissed in 2006, with the rank of Private. I was doing it (impersonating) because friends that I knew thought I was still in the army. I have learnt to stay out of crime and stop parading myself wrongly,” he said. Some of the items recovered from the fake army officer included one fake JTF staff tag, International passport, combat gears, an army kit bag and a digital camera. Other items recovered from some of the other suspected criminals included one long single barrel gun, live cartridge, expended cartridges, military wares, hammer, pliers and three mobile

Policeman accidentally kills Customs offikiller cop would have been to death. ORT operations at the Tin- beaten can Island Container Ter- Confirming the incident, the minal (TICT) were virtually Public Relations Officer of Tingrounded yesterday for several Can Island Command of the hours following the killing of a NCS, Chris Osunkwo, a Deputy Customs officer assigned from Superintendent of Customs the Federal Operations Unit (DSC) who described the inci(FOU) of the Nigeria Customs dent as unfortunate, said that Service (NCS) to escort contain- the police officer has been ers from the port. placed under protective cusThe Customs personnel was al- tody at the Apapa Port Police legedly killed by a mobile po- Command. Osunkwo told The Guardian lice officer. The police officer identified as that the officer was posted Sergeant Peter Adegbesan, was there from the mobile said to have handled his service squadron 22, unit, Ikeja. When The Guardian visited rifle carelessly causing it to fall from his hand thereby trigger- the Tic-can Island Command ing the gun to fire sporadically of the Service, a senior police without control. officer said to be the Deputy The policeman was posted as a Commissioner of police in guard at the Tin-Can Island charge of the ports, was seen Container terminal. in the company of other senAdegbesan, was said to have at- ior police officers leaving the tempted to control the rifle as Command after paying a conhe lifted it from the ground dolence visit on the Customs only for the Customs officer Area Controller (CAC), Zakari (Assistant Inspector, O.A. Oro) Jibril. to be hit severally by discharging bullets from the weapon. An eyewitness disclosed that the officer died before he could be rushed to the hospital and in a swift reaction to the incident, many of the clearing agents who were present at the scene, began to beat up the police officer. The eyewitness further said but for the intervention of dockworkers from the terminal, the Manko

By Odita Sunday

14 | THE GUARDIAN, Friday, August 16, 2013

TheGuardian Conscience Nurtured by Truth

FOUNDER: ALEX U. IBRU (1945 – 2011)

Conscience is an open wound; only truth can heal it. Uthman dan Fodio 1754-1816

Editorial Diplomats and undiplomatic conduct OREIGN Affairs Minister Olugbenga Ashiru was right in expressing displeasure at diplomats making political statements on Nigeria. As he noted, such an action constitutes undue interference in the country’s internal affairs. The minister was expressing Nigeria’s feeling to the diplomatic community at the time he did if only to check excesses and disrespect to our sovereignty. On any other matter of interest to the country, Ashiru indeed needs to be more direct in the delivery of the message that activities contrary to international practice are unacceptable to Nigeria and would be visited with appropriate measures. To their credit, after all, Nigerian diplomats abroad always play by the rules (their conduct over time attests to this). So, the ambassadors here should be told plainly to be reciprocal and no less courteous to their hosts. Again, the minister should have been more specific and clearer in his complaints to the diplomats. Specifically, while not objecting to foreign missions freely supporting human rights groups with funds, Ashiru also said the Nigerian government took exception to the conduct of some ambassadors whose activities are incompatible with their status and professional calling. The only hint of the “unacceptable conduct” was in his admonition that, “if ambassadors want to join human rights groups, they might as well resign to join them, but they cannot use the platform of being a diplomatic agent to interfere in our domestic activities... I want ambassadors to please confine themselves to their traditional duties.” The Vienna Convention is clear on the activities that are incompatible with the functions of envoys. So, by his subtle complaint, is the minister saying the Ministry of Foreign Affairs has information on some ambassadors who use civil society groups to work against our nation, or through the groups, advance their countries’ interests against Nigeria? If so, why did the ministry not confront the suspected envoys formally with such grievous allegations, or report them to their home governments? This notwithstanding, Ashiru cannot be faulted when he accused some unnamed countries of hypocrisy, for pressurizing Nigeria to sign the gay rights bill. If Nigeria would not impose its culture on other countries, he argued, it was wrong for any country to try to impose its own on the nation. The international community must show a greater understanding of the values, culture and traditions of other countries. Diplomats are always under instruction not to interfere in host countries’ internal affairs. In fact, it is unethical. Ordinarily, a nation should have no reason to run after other countries’ representatives to keep them within acceptable bounds. It is given that this is the rule, and it should not be breached. Even in diplomacy, there is a culture that ambassadors are therefore, expected to preserve, not to rubbish. In some instances, it has been observed that diplomats make utterances without the approval of their home governments. This must be checked. Agreed, diplomats are sources of information on their beats, but it would be undiplomatic to use the influence and facilities to act to the detriment of a constituted authority in another country or to make inappropriate political comments capable of harming relations between two friendly nations. It is only appropriate too to advise the Nigerian government to put its house in order, improve governance and leave no room for intruding diplomats to have the chance to act mischievously or collude with Nigerian nationals to promote dissent. The country did not suffer such abuse from diplomats until Nigerian leaders started misgoverning, seeing themselves as over-lords who are only out to rule but not to serve. The President and other Nigerian leaders cannot be absolved of blame. They often seek to gain cheap publicity and give supposed weight to their comments by preferring international media organisations to the local press. That selective platform of news dissemination is unnecessary. Openness should be the hallmark of democracy. In reality, our nation is in dire need of integrity, from both the rulers and the ruled. When such is enthroned in the national life, only then will foreigners be compelled to be less judgmental and show more respect to Nigeria and the nation’s values.

LETTER

Save our future! I have less than four months to graduate IR: The Nigerian Sdealt Educational System has with most students treacherously. My own ordeal started from year 2002. I was admitted into the Department of Business Administration and Management, Faculty of Management Science, Lagos State University, Ojo, Lagos. I quitted the programme due to inconsistency as a result of incessant academic strike. I opted for a fresh undergraduate degree programme in another tertiary institution in Nigeria since I have tried schooling abroad, but no option for sponsorship. Now at Yaba College of Technology, I obtained a part-time studies form for my National Diploma in February 2005 for a six semester, two years programme. The session began in November 2006, but I graduated in August 2010. You will indeed be surprised that it took me more than four years for a National Diploma programme of two years. I left Lagos State University because of academic strike and met same thing at Yaba College of Technology. As soon as the first session

was concluded in February 2008, the school went on an indefinite strike that lasted for more than 10 months. The Students Union Government dragged the college management to court. The whole issue was however resolved in October/November, 2008. Meanwhile, I obtained my Higher National Diploma form in July 2011. I was admitted into the programme for a two years programme in the School of Management and Business Studies, Yaba College of Technology. The first session went on well without any issue. We resumed for the second session. The first semester examination was written amid several speculations that there was going to be academic strike by the Seniors Staff of Yaba College of Technology. This was so evident, as the invigilators that came to each examination halls were junior staff of the college. Immediately the examination was concluded, the college management asked all students to vacate the hostels of residence. I was recently made to understand that the same issue that the staff at Yaba

Tech agitated for in year 2008 was still the same reason they went on strike. I was informed that the Federal Government hearkened to the plight and agitation of these lecturers and non-academic staff in year 2008. The college management refused to pay the lecturers and nonacademic staff and this resorted into another academic strike. The strike action had been on for more than one month now. I am a final year student (HND2) with less than four months to graduate. For how long will the strike last? The memorandum released by the college management captioned: Resumption, Postponed Indefinitely! Who is going to save our future? The few available jobs in the labour market demands for age bracket of 24 to 26 years. Most of us are 30 years and over before graduating. How do we survive these time wasting strike actions? This is an appeal to the Minister of Education, Prof. Ruqayyatu Rufa’i, and other stakeholders in the sector to come to our aid and save our future! • Oladapo Samuel successforever009@gmail.com

THE GUARDIAN, Friday, August 16, 2013

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2014 hottest cars in focus

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Chief Executive Officer, Nigerian Stock Exchange, Oscar Onyema (Left); Chairman, First Registrars, Ahmedu Abubakar; Oba of Lagos, Rilwan Akiolu; Coordinator, Independent Shareholders Association Nigeria, Sunny Nwosu; Managing Director/Chief Executive Officer, First Registrars, Bayo Olugbemi, during the unveiling of First Dividend Plus Prepaid Card in Lagos, yesterday.

Govt loses $1trillion to illegal oil bunkering By Roseline Okere HE Special Adviser to the President on Niger Delta, Kingsley Kuku, has put the environmental losses to illegal oil bunkering in the country, at $1 trillion. Kuku who is also the Chairman, Presidential Amnesty Programme, said findings of a report commissioned by the government indicates that crude oil theft and illegal artisanal refining was widespread that has stifles traditional community life.

According to him, in some communities crude oil theft has outstripped fishing and farming as a contributor to community Gross Domestic Product adding it is damaging and supplanting legitimate economic activities. He said: “Most of the commentary and literature on crude oil theft lay emphasis on the cost to the Nigerian economy, and indeed this cost is huge. By some estimates, at the peak of our losses, we lost almost 400,000 barrels per day to crude oil theft and pipeline vandalism.

It must be understood though that this figure represents what the country is losing not necessary what is stolen. Oil theft invariably entails the destruction of pipelines and once detected would mean the closure of the pipelines to effect repairs which cost a lost of money and take a lot of time. “This vicious circle of vandalism, detection repair and back to vandalism is what results into the estimated losses; part of which would be the actual stolen crude. It is therefore, difficult to correctly

estimate how much is actually stolen’’. According to him “This bleeding of our economy must stop so that we can earn more to fund development all over the country. This bleeding must stop so that the Niger Delta people can fulfill their full economic potential. “This obviously is a problem of urgent and strategic national and international importance. However, its impact on the communities of the Niger Delta, on our environment, our health and our livelihood is even more serious. In many

communities fishing and farming is no longer possible because of the damage to the environment on which our people depend for livelihood”. Kuku said the Federal Government has on several occasions expressed dismay over the increasing oil theft in the Niger Delta. He disclosed that the government has empowered officers of the armed forces, especially the Nigerian Navy as well as the Joint Military Task Force in the Niger Delta to tackle head on the crude oil thieves. He added that the govern-

ment has also established a high power committee consisting of key ministers, the security agencies and the governors of states in the Niger Delta to address the menace. Speaking also at the event, Chief of Naval Staff, Dele Ezeoba, emphasized the need to utilize the use of technology to secure the pipelines as being done on other countries. Ezeoba added: “There should be need to establish the right

CONTINUED ON PAGE 16

Nigeria’s subscribers constitute 27.5% of MTN Group’s customers’ base By Adeyemi Adepetun WELVE years into its operaT tions in the country, Nigeria’s arm of South African base telecommunications firm, MTN, has constituted 27.5 per cent of the group’s subscriber base, which is put at over 200 million. MTN, which has operations in about 22 countries across the globe including Afghanistan, Benin, Botswana, Cameroon, Cote d’Ivoire,

Cyprus, Ghana, Guinea Bissau, Guinea Republic, Iran, Liberia, Nigeria, Republic of Congo (Congo Brazzaville), Rwanda, South Africa, Sudan, South Sudan, Swaziland, Syria, Uganda, Yemen and Zambia, announced on Wednesday that it has crossed the 200 million mark, putting its subscribers at 201.5 million. The firm’s group subscriber base increased by 6.5 per cent over a year. The Nigerian arm, according to the Nigerian

Communications Commission (NCC) presently controls the largest percentage of the market and attested to by the group’s financial statement, has 55.2 million subscribers moving up by 9.6 million from September 2012, where it had 45.6 million users in the country. Indeed, Nigeria topped the group subscribers’ base with 55.2 million; Iran has 42 million; South Africa has 25 million; Ghana has 12.6 million; Cameroon has 7.6 million and

Syria has 5.5 million subscribers presently. According to the Group’s President and Chief Executive Officer, Sifiso Dabengwa, while announcing the milestone achievement, informed that the telecommunications firm will be supporting education development in Africa and the Middle East with R200 million initiatives over the next two years. MTN, which will celebrate 20 years of connecting people

and economies next year, Dabengwa said the telecommunications firm has a particular opportunity to make a meaningful contribution to social development. “Due to the lack of access to quality education and infrastructure, and low literacy rates in most of these countries, MTN has chosen to direct a significant amount of its corporate social (CSI) spend towards education over the next two year. This will provide people with the skills,

knowledge and confidence they need to make positive decisions about their lives,” Dabengwa said. According to him, MTN runs a comprehensive multi-country CSI programme through MTN Foundations spanning education, health and other national priorities. A grand total of R193 million was spent in these three areas during 2012. Going forward, he said the

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THE GUARDIAN, Friday, August 16, 2013

16 BUSINESS

Delta injects N6.7 billion towards meeting MDGs ELTA State government D has once again reaffirmed its pledge to support the economically poor and underprivileged families in the state and enhance its poverty alleviation programme by setting up a special scheme which will avail such families of monthly financial assistance and an annual exit payment, through the Conditional Cash Transfer (CCT) scheme. This disclosure was made by the Delta State Commissioner, Special Duties, Directorate of Millennium Development Goals, Queen Mother Victoria Ikenchuku, while presenting the mid-term report of her Directorate to journalists in Government House, Asaba, on Tuesday, August 13, 2013. The Commissioner revealed that the Conditional Grant Scheme (CGS) which was introduced in 2007 is funded from the savings of Debt Relief Gains of $1 billion of which the Federal Government’s share is $750 million, while the State share is $250million, adding that the scheme seeks to engage and support States and Local Governments in achieving the MDGs by the target date of 2015. Addressing the need to eradicate extreme poverty and hunger, which is Goal 1 of the MDG Goals, Queen Victoria noted that the Delta State government had already keyed into the Federal Government designed Conditional

Grants Scheme (CGS) since 2008 and identified Five (5) Local Government Areas, as part of the selection mechanism for an objective implementation of the Conditional Cash Transfer scheme in the State, with the weakest MDG indicators and Five (5) wards and communities from the poverty mapping data already collected and collated by OSSAP-MDGs, using the Baseline Facility Inventory and Needs Assessment. Speaking further, the Queen Mother said that, “the Conditional Cash Transfer (CCT) is a social safety net intervention whereby grants are provided to targeted extremely poor households on the condition that their children of basic school age attend school and participate in the free health care programme for children and pregnant women and to this end, a total of 2,250 extremely poor households in five poorest Local Government Areas of Delta State have been targeted as beneficiaries of the Scheme”. The selected beneficiaries LGA’s are Ukwuani, Oshimili South, Warri South West, Okpe, and Udu and the selection survey of households is already on-going in the five identified communities in five LGA’s. According to her, “The selection of beneficiaries from each community was restricted to poor female headed households, poor aged - headed households,

Group Head, Agric Finance, Sterling Bank Plc, Mrs. Bukola Awosanya (left); and Commissioner for Agriculture & Cooperatives, Lagos State, Gbolahan Lawal, during the Business Day Conference on Agric Business and Food Security Summit 2013 held in Abuja ...recently. and child - headed households”, adding that the criteria used were Shelter, income, access to education and health, widowhood, and HIV-impacted households amongst other indices to select the five LGAs. She further added that, “The life span of the scheme is one year and the Conditional Cash Transfer,

CCT, is intended to increase access to education, basic health care and ability to engage in income generating activities by the poor households, while beneficiaries are also assisted in saving towards income that would be invested in petty trading that would provide some steady income for the household”. The MDG Commissioner

also said that “The financial monthly disbursement per household is N5,000.00 while the exit payment is N100,000.00 (One Hundred Thousand Naira),” adding that “The exit payment is intended to enable the beneficiary start off an agricultural skill which she would have acquired during the year.” She noted that the

Directorate would collaborate with the Agricultural Development Programme (ADP), to impact Agricultural Skills on would-be beneficiaries in the selected rural wards/communities, even as she anticipated that this would ensure that the households become selfreliant at the end of the one year scheme.

Nigeria tops MTN Group’s customers’ base CONTINUED FROM PAGE 15 company will scale up its contribution towards building knowledge economies in its markets by investing in more education initiatives aimed at empowering learners and teachers using ICTs and mobile learning, adding that as seen in MTN’s 2013 interim results released, MTN is a growth company with a solid performance record and an aspirational vision to lead the delivery of a bold new digital world to its customers. Furthermore, Dabengwa said MTN will continue to share the fruits of its success with customers and communities through, among others, offering affordable and innovative services, as well as investing in social upliftment and network infrastructure to improve the quality of its services. “We are grateful to our customers for their loyalty and contribution to the growth of

the MTN brand over the years. Using that feedback, MTN is making significant investments towards improving the quality of our service, while also providing solutions designed to make a real difference in the lives of our customers,” Dabengwa added. The Group CEO disclosed that the MTN brand has achieved great prominence over the years, stressing that for two consecutive years, the firm emerged as the highest ranked African brand in the prestigious Millward-Brown Brandz Top 100 Most Valuable Global Brands 2013 survey. Most recently, MTN emerged as South Africa’s most valuable brand in this year’s BrandFinance Most Valuable Brands Survey, for a second consecutive year. “The award is further acknowledgement of our on-going efforts to enhance customer experience in the various touch-points in the markets,” stated Dabengwa.

To achieve this ambition, which will allow MTN to provide a seamless service experience to customers across its markets, the CEO said the company has launched a project aptly called ‘Perfect 10’. Already launched in Ghana, Nigeria, Cote d’Ivoire, Zambia and South Africa, the initiative aims to give customers a 10 out of 10 experience of the MTN network, products and services. Benefits of the programme are already filtering through to customers. In Ghana, for example, where the programme was first launched, feedback received in the early stages of implementation has been very positive. Looking ahead, Dabengwa said the company’s new vision, to lead the delivery of a bold new Digital World, and mission to make our customers’ lives a whole lot brighter, has positioned MTN well for further growth into the future.

Illegal oil bunkering worries govt CONTINUED FROM PAGE 15 of ways to protect the pipelines. The responsibility of making sure that the needs of the oil producing communities are met, would go a long way to reduce the problem. If this is done, the communities will begin to see themselves as stakeholders. The oil majors should review their social corporate responsibility pro-

gramme to be able to impact on the lives of the communities. The major should work towards human capacity development”. He also stressed the need for the Petroleum Industry Bill to be passed into law. “We cannot get a perfect document, but we should pass what we have on hand and it should be subjected to periodic review. Premium Motor Spirit should

be made available in oil producing communities. Most of the filling stations, including the one belonging the Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation, hardly have fuel for the communities. Even when it is available, it usually cost three times more than the normal price. This is one of the reasons why they people result to patronizing illegal refineries”.

THE GUARDIAN, Friday, August 16, 2013

Weekend Exclusive breastfeeding campaign heightens

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20 WEEKEND

Concerns mount as exclusive breastfeeding It is an indisputable fact the exclusive breast-feeding of newborns for at least six months, has many positive implications. But due to poverty and work pressure, many nursing mothers in the country do not find the practice convenient. EMEKA ANUFORO writes that this year’s commemoration of the World Breastfeeding Week between August 1 and 7, has provided stakeholders with the opportunity to underscore its importance iGERiA is again declining on the list of N countries adhering to the six-month exclusive breastfeeding practice, advocated by the World Health Organization (WHO). The international organization estimates that only 38 percent of infants are exclusively breastfed globally for six months. Statistics from the United Nations international Children Fund (UNiCEF) also indicate that Nigeria has made no improvement on this score over many years, even as experts say breastfeeding is the best way to provide newborns with the nutrients they need. WHO recommends exclusive breastfeeding until a baby is six months old, and even beyond, with the complementary food, up to two years. Nigeria is rated eighth in Africa, with the lowest exclusive breastfeeding practices, a report from Save the Children initiative has shown. A fact sheet from the WHO says breast milk gives infants all the nutrients they need for healthy development. it concludes that people who were breastfed as babies are less likely to be overweight or obese later in life. They may also be less prone to diabetes, just as they perform better in intelligence tests. The document continued: “it (breast milk) is safe and contains antibodies that help protect infants from common childhood illnesses, such as diarrhea and pneumonia, the two primary causes of child mortality worldwide. Breast milk is readily available and affordable, which helps to ensure that infants get adequate nutrition. But infant formula, reports assert, does not contain the antibodies found in breast milk. Additionally, there are risks arising from the use of unsafe water and unsterilized equipment when preparing the formula. Besides, there is the potential presence of bacteria or other contaminants in powdered formula. Malnutrition could, stakeholders have argued, result from overdiluting baby formula in order to stretch supplies. While frequent feeding ensures adequate breast milk supply, if, suddenly, baby formula becomes unavailable, a return to breastfeeding may not be an option due to the already diminished breast milk production. Reports also have it that an infant given breast milk within an hour of birth, is up to three times more likely to survive than the one breastfed a day later. The campaign for exclusive breastfeeding resonated when Nigeria joined more than 170 countries to commemorate the World Breastfeeding Week, celebrated yearly from August 1 to 7 to encourage the practice, in order to save babies worldwide. it also commemorates the innocenti Declaration, made by WHO and UNiCEF policy-makers in August 1990, to protect, promote and support breastfeeding. This year, the WHO and its partners are calling for more support for breastfeeding mothers. The latest campaign focuses on what mothers, fathers, family/friends and the workplace could do to increase support. According to the Global Coordinator of the World Breastfeeding Week (WBA), Jennifer Mourin, the practice is the normal way of providing young infants with the nutrients they need for healthy growth and development. Virtually all mothers can breastfeed, she explains, provided they have accurate information and the support of their family, the health care system and society at large.”

Breastfeeding mother

Her words: “When mothers are able to get off to a good start, all too often in the weeks or months after delivery, there is a sharp decline in breastfeeding rates, particularly exclusive breastfeeding. The period when mothers do not visit a healthcare facility is the time when a community support system for mothers is essential. Continued support to sustain breastfeeding can be provided in a variety of ways. Traditionally, support is provided by the family. As societies change, however, in particular with urbanization, support for mothers from a wider circle is needed, whether it is provided by trained health workers, lactation consultants, community leaders or friends who are also mothers.” Deputy Executive Director of UNiCEF, Geeta Rao Gupta said: “There is no other single health intervention that has such a high impact for babies and mothers as breastfeeding, and which costs so little for governments. Breastfeeding is a baby’s ‘first immunization’ and the most effective and inexpensive life-saver ever.” A statement from the world body observed: “Breastfeeding also supports a child’s ability to

learn and helps prevent obesity and chronic diseases later in life. Recent studies in the United States and United Kingdom point to large health care savings, resulting from breastfeeding. Apart from the benefits to the baby, Gupta explained that mothers who breastfeed exclusively are less likely to become pregnant in the first six months following delivery. She affirmed that such mothers also recover faster and return to their pre-pregnancy weight quickly. She continued: “Evidence shows that they experience less post-partum depression and also have a lower risk of ovarian and breast cancers later in life.” Despite these well-documented benefits, only 39 per cent of six-month-old children were exclusively breastfed in 2012. This global figure has improved very little over the past several decades, due in part to large countries where the breastfeeding rate is low, and to the general lack of a supportive environment for breastfeeding mothers. However, countries with supportive policies and comprehen-

Although, breastfeeding is natural and may seem instinctive, it is essential to create an enabling environment for it to become the norm. Mothers benefit from the help of skilled health providers and community workers to support them to breastfeed, as well as culturally-sensitive communication, protective laws and policies, particularly around the marketing of breast milk substitutes and maternity leave

sive programmes that reach all communities have been able to increase their rates significantly. The report stated: “The exclusive breastfeeding rate in indonesia is declining; Nigeria has made no improvement over many years; and some of the lowest rates in the world are in Somalia, Chad and South Africa. “Such examples reflect insufficient global leadership on breastfeeding, as it continues to be undervalued, relative to its importance in the life of a child. There needs to be higher prioritization and commitment, targeted policies and greater consensus, to engage the world in promoting this life-saving and vital practice. Although, breastfeeding is natural and may seem instinctive, it is essential to create an enabling environment for it to become the norm. Mothers benefit from the help of skilled health providers and community workers to support them to breastfeed, as well as culturally-sensitive communication, protective laws and policies, particularly around the marketing of breast milk substitutes and maternity leave.” The Society for Family Health (SFH) also declared that breastfeeding promotes emotional health and bonding for mothers; reduces the risk of breast cancer by as much as 25 percent and the risk of uterine and ovarian cancer; promotes postpartum weight loss, child spacing and reduces the cost of feeding the infant. The SFH encourages Nigerians to embrace policies, values and practices, that would prioritize the health of the newborn, including exclusive breastfeeding, for at least the first six months of life.” Minister of Health, Onyebuchi Chukwu, lamented that the declining rate at which mothers obey the exclusive breastfeeding policy was dropping. He said: “Too often, it has been observed that in the course of exclusive breastfeeding, there is always a sharp decline in sustaining the tempo a few weeks after delivery. This sharp decline underscores the importance of the theme, which emphasizes breastfeeding peer counseling, as a cost effective and highly productive way of reaching large number of mothers more frequently. The period when mothers do not visit a healthcare facility is the time when a community support system for mothers is essential. Trained peer counselors, readily available in the community, become the lifeline for mothers with breastfeeding challenges. The key to best breastfeeding practices is continued day-today support for the breastfeeding mother in her home and community. “With continuation of training peer counselors, in addition to those already trained in most communities across the country, i have no doubt in my mind that Nigeria is on the track of ensuring early initiation of breastfeeding within 30 minutes after delivery, and promoting exclusive breastfeeding for the first six months of life. This, if adequately followed with the introduction of adequate and safe complementary food at the six-month of life, and continued breastfeeding for up to two years and beyond, the suboptimal infant and young child feeding practices resulting to malnutrition will be averted.” The 2013 World Breastfeeding Week campaigners have articulated what they called Circles of Support for Mothers And Children. These include: Family and Social Network; Healthcare, Workplace and Employment; Government/ Legislation and Response to Crisis or Emergency, all surrounding women in the center circle. Women in the center circle Women are in the center because the presence or absence of support impacts on them directly. Women also have an important role in securing support and in providing it to others. Within the Global initiative for Mother Support (GiMS) for Breastfeeding Statement (2007), mothers are considered active participants in the support dynamics. Family and social network Husbands/partners/fathers, family and friends constitute the mother’s immediate and continuous support network. Social

THE GUARDIAN, Friday, August 16, 2013

WEEKEND 21

rates drop in Nigeria Husbands/partners/fathers, family and friends constitute the mother’s immediate and continuous support network. Social support includes community support - at the market place, within a religious context, at a neighbourhood park and so on. Support during pregnancy reduces stress. Support during labour and birth empowers the mother. Societal support increases the mother’s confidence in her ability to breastfeed beyond the early weeks and months

support includes community support - at the market place, within a religious context, at a neighbourhood park and so on. Support during pregnancy reduces stress. Support during labour and birth empowers the mother. Societal support increases the mother’s confidence in her ability to breastfeed beyond the early weeks and months. Healthcare systems This includes a multitude of opportunities to support breastfeeding. These opportunities range from mother friendly prenatal care and supportive labour and delivery services, to postpartum and postnatal care, that facilitates bonding and optimal infant feeding. Health workers trained in counseling skills support mothers before and after birth. Workplace and employment Employed women face challenges and need support to succeed at working and breastfeeding. The opportunities for mother support are as varied as the work women do, but usually involve facilitating mother-baby contact or expression and storage of breast milk. Government/Legislation Women who plan to breastfeed or who are already breastfeeding benefit from the support of international documents, protections for optimal infant feeding, plus active and well funded national commissions. Legislation that combats aggressive marketing of breast milk substitutes and enacts paid maternity leave, also benefits breastfeeding women. Response to crisis or emergency: This circle of support represents the need for support if a woman finds herself in an unexpected and / or serious situation, with little control. Situations that require special planning and support are: natural disasters, refugee camps, divorce proceedings, critical illness of mother or baby, or living in an area of high HIV/AIDS prevalence with no support for breastfeeding. A report released during the week by the Save the Children Initiative working on maternal and childcare, said Djibouti has the worst compliance with exclusive breastfeeding on the continent – one percent – while Rwanda has the highest of 85 percent. Nigeria ranked eighth, coming after Djibouti, Chad, Cote d’Ivoire, Gabon, South Africa which have one, three, four, six and eight percent compliance rates respec-

tively. Others are Somalia, Angola and Nigeria with nine, 11 and 13 percent conformity to WHO’s directive on exclusive feeding. The report further states that nutrition, in Nigeria, had over the years, assumed a negative dimension, with malnutrition accounting for more than 50 percent of under-five deaths. This, the survey says, emanates from poor infant and young feeding practices. Bottle-feeding, according to the report, is 16 percent while complementary feeding remains at 76.1 percent. President, Nutrition Society of Nigeria, Prof Ngozi Nnam said breastfeeding “can be defined as giving a baby only breast milk including expressed breast milk for six months. No fluid other than the breast milk, not even water, is allowed.” While pleading for a better conducive nursing environment for the nursing mothers, Nnam appealed to mothers to offer the new-born exclusive breast milk for the first six months of birth. Participants at the event called for increased maternal leave for nursing mothers, stringent control of advertisement of complementary meals, better economic conditions for families and regulation of cultural practices that undermine exclusive breastfeeding. Again, the Save the Children Initiative, in its report on “How Overcoming Barriers to Breastfeeding will save Children’s Lives,” says 830,000 deaths could be avoided if every baby is breast-fed within the first hour of life; 22 percent of newborn deaths could be prevented if breastfeeding starts within the first hour after birth.” In the opening hours and days after childbirth, a mother produces the first milk called colostrum- the most potent natural immune system booster known to science. The report affirms that infants who are not breastfed are 15 times more likely to die from pneumonia and 11 times more likely to die of diarrhea, than those who are exclusively breastfed for the first six months of life. It states that an estimated 1.4 million child deaths in 2008 were as a result of ‘sub-optimal’ breastfeeding, that is, when babies were not exclusively breastfed and where breastfeeding did not continue into the second year. The report also shows that worldwide, among 92 million children under six months, two out of three babies are either artificially fed or fed with a mixture of breast milk and other foods. But the Federal Government has attributed the drop on the practice among nursing mothers to socio-cultural practices, beliefs, prejudices, taboos and state of the nation’s economy. Head of Family Health Department, Federal Ministry of Health, Dr. Wapada Balami, said: “Though, more than 90 percent of Nigerian mothers have no problem in breastfeeding their young children, yet the exclusive breastfeeding is rarely adhered to.” He promised that the Federal Government would continue to support peer counseling from family, social network,

Zainab Maina

Geeta Rao Gupta

Banki-moon

Chukwu

health care system, workplace including legislation to help mothers conform to exclusive breastfeeding practice. Nigeria’s operational National Demographic and Health Survey (NDHS 2008) shows that exclusive breastfeeding in the country currently stands at 13 percent. The report states further that nutrition in Nigeria has over the years assumed public health proportion with malnutrition accounting for more than 50 percent of under-five deaths. Meanwhile, nursing mothers in Abuja have proffered ways to guarantee compliance with exclusive breastfeeding in Nigeria. They spoke at a sensitization of market men and women on the imperative and benefits of exclusive breastfeeding at the Garki Model Market Abuja. A mother, Mrs. Charity Samson, wants governments at all levels to execute economic policies that would benefit the citizenry which would positively affect millions of mothers in the country. She said: “We cannot deny that exclusive breastfeeding is the best for our children. I have observed that most mothers who are comfortable find it easy to give breast milk to their babies as long as they have the opportunity. Unfortunately, poor mothers will not do the same because they cannot even feed themselves. When the economy is good, all mothers will be encouraged to give their new-born exclusive breast milk.” Another mother, Mrs. Janet Chuwkuemeka, wants paternity maternity leave period extended. She told The Guardian: “My daughter’s baby is in the house as I am talking to you. She just finished her maternity leave to resume work. I think she spent only four months or so with the baby while on leave. She has to come back from work to feed the baby. Initially, we thought she could be keeping the breast milk for the baby in the house. But, we cannot guarantee the safety of the milk, since there is no electricity to power the refrigerator in the house. She has to come back from work to feed the baby while her younger sister, who cares for the child, has to supplement with water and complementary food. So, government has to make maternity leave six months for mothers.” In all, stakeholders at this year’s commemoration in Abuja called for increased maternal leave for nursing mothers, stringent control of advertisement of complementary meals, better economic conditions for families and regulation of

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THE GUARDIAN, Friday, August 16, 2013

ExecutiveBrief In association with TRIPPLEA ASSOCIATES LIMITED

EDITION 273

EXECUTIVE MANAGEMENT INFOTECH4DEXECUTIVES CUSTOMER EXPERIENCE EXECUTIVE FINANCE ale Afebioye is the Executive director and the Business W development Executive of Premier College, a College that was established to bridge the existing gap between school curriculum and professional know-how among Nigerian youth, with the combination of practical expression of theoretical inputs and exploration of new frontiers based on individual peculiarities. He spoke in this interview on how a well equipped School can help improve the standard of education in the country and sundry issues. Premier College is an innovative secondary school located in Ijebu Ode, Ogun State and they believe schools shouldn’t just be about teaching and learning, but a combination of practical expression of academic contribution and discovery of new frontiers.

Education Should Include Self Discovery , Ultimate Development What is the young Professionals Programme [YPP] all about? Yes, the Young Professionals Programme is the core of Premier College operations. We believe secondary education should not be about passing examinations and getting certified only. Rather education should include self discovery, self development and ultimately self actualization. It is our firm belief that when children are provided with the right tools, atmosphere and appropriate motivation, they can start achieving their goals from their teenage years. The concept of YPP is that digital literacy and expertise is at the core of the competency of the future leader. We believe that the leader of the future is not secure behind the wall of his credentials rather he/she is empowered by the skills acquired.

event for the school community to appreciate the creative minds in the student body.

What are the challenges facing the education sector in Nigeria? I think basically the problem with education sector is the fact Background: that our schools are not centers for creative expression, and I studied Mass Communication and later did human resources most times people go to school basically to obtain a certificate Management. I have been in the educational sector for a period in order to secure a job. Schools should be about discovery and of fifteen years as a teacher and administrator. At different exploring your abilities in developing one’s skills towards times I also worked at some schools in and around the town expressing your creativity, but the government and the society but in the last three years, I have been involved in administrado not reward creativity rather only certificates are recognized. tive side of running schools. In my little experience of training Inadequate infrastructure, non qualified teachers as well as govpeople for jobs at different levels, one of the things I have disernment policy has not helped the sector. One important thing covered is that many Nigerian schools train student to be holdwe need to know is that, if we want students to be better, we ers of Certificate rather than people who possess skills. Our aim How does it work? need to give them the tools to work with. But, while doing that, at Premier College is to bridge the gap between the curriculum All enrolled students are issued a laptop computer on we need to make sure that schools are not run as a profit makcontent been taught in Schools and the technological knowresumption for the new academic session. The computer then ing venture rather as a sustainable effort at changing lives. The how they need to be successful in life. We also have enrichment becomes a companion as assignments are given out and key word is sustainable, so premier College does not offer free Programmes that is designed for our students to discover returned via the internet using the school wireless conneceducation; but, our tuition fee is affordable that most working themselves early in life, as well as providing them tools in the tion. However, beyond that, the two last periods of the school class parents can afford to pay for world class education. area of software training and project work that will help to perday has been allocated for the student to take informal classes fect their skills in their future endeavors. that are essentially ICT based. At the beginning of each term, What do you think government can do differently to help the students are given an opportunity to declare their interest, education Sector? and our life Government should as a matter of urgency improve on the coaches recom- standard of education as well as formulate and implement polimend a softcies that will improve on the standard of education, where comware or commitment and dedication will be the order of the day. At Premier puter language College, we believe schools shouldn’t just be about teaching that the child and learning, but a combination of practical expression of theomust learn and retical inputs and exploration of new frontiers based on individperfect that ual peculiarities. term. So, at the end of each What are the unique factors that stand Premier College out? term, all stuPremier College is not just like any other school because from dents are the moment a student enrolls we give them free laptop comexpected to puter for all students as a required learning accessory; free textpresent an orig- books in all subjects for all students; free full meal lunch for all inal project students daily (both Day & Boarding); free customized school using the softbag for all students; free uniforms (4 sets) for all students; free ware or comtransportation within Ijebu Ode township; Summer puter language Educational Trips to UK, US, Canada, Europe & Asia. Etc. based on the As a Matter of fact our requirement Policy places emphasis on recommendaqualified teachers with proven success at local and internationtion of the al examinations. One of the factors that stands premier college assigned life out is our ‘’total care system’’ this is a system that deals with all coach. the ramifications of a Child’s developments, be it academic, Opportunities social, spiritual and physical development. However, it will for further interest you to know that the school does not have traditional development class rooms, but we have dedicated subject’s rooms, such that are then when a child for instance is learning Mathematics, every thing assessed so that in that room must speak mathematics. progress can be made. The The School Curriculum Music School at Our school operates an integrated Nigeria–British curriculum Premier College but what is important is that our curriculum has been designed is essentially a to prepare our students for local and international examinaperforming arts tions. training centre Our state of the art Campus is equipped with wireless internet where talented system and the school administrators have designed firewalls students can that will restrict access to certain websites. The school also has sharpen their an in built social net work within the web -portals that allow the skills. Students parents to interact with the teachers on a daily basis. All our labwho are in the oratories are equipped with relevant state-of-the-art ICT arts are privienhancements to create a learning environment that is smooth, leged because innovative and exciting. Our majestic school complex is wirethe training lessly connected to the internet so that students and teachers they need is alike can safely browse the web for research. ICT is at the heart already embed- of parent-teacher-student interaction. All our students have an ded in their cur- email address on the school domain and parents are advised to riculum. create an account on the school portal to constantly be in touch However, stuwith their child. dents who are in the STEM Extra-Curricular Activities (Science, Students have a wide range of diverse activities available for Technology, them to choose from, as part of our Enrichment Programme. Engineering These activities afford our students an opportunity to develop and skills, perfect their talents or simply have fun. Our extracurricuMathematics) lar activities are mainly in the areas of sports, Music and the specializations Performing Arts. Students select activities based on interest and can take advan- talent and form supervised groups based on the school rules tage of weekand regulations. We are always thinking about how your child’s end and holilearning will be smooth and painless. While every attempt has day classes to been made provide world class instruction at moderate develop their charges, we realize that some students may require planning in talents. At the the payment of their tuition. Premier College, Ijebu Ode partend of each ners with banks to ensure that parents who earn monthly term, the wages are able to pay tuition for their children. An installment school organiz- plan is in place in partnership with partner banks that will es a recital enable parents to bequeath a long lasting legacy on their children. For Advertisement and Enquiries 08025070837 08156388800, E-mail:editor.executivebrief@trippleagroup.com

Wale Afebioye

THE GUARDIAN, August 16, 2013

24 | EXECUTIVEBRIEF

Executive Management By Ruth D Schwartz hen I started my music distribution company, Mordam Records, I began to hire people within a year. The first guy I hired was Martin. When he quit after a very short time, I was devastated. He said he just didn't like the work. I wondered why, but Martin was sticking to his story. Next, I hired Tommy. It was just the two of us. On busy days we worked side by side. The company was growing. We were getting busier and busier. One day, out of the blue, Tommy quit. Again, I was devastated. How could you work so closely with someone and have no indication that anything was wrong? Why did he quit? He told me that though I thought we were working side by side as a team, he thought I was a heinous Boss. Where I thought we were efficient, he thought I was a bossy A**. Where I thought we were creating something fair and equitable, he thought I was blind to reality. I had my first reality check. I have a disdain for jobs that don't show respect and fairness. But somehow I wasn't living up to my own core values. That is when my actions took a strategic turn. I declared my values. It was time to learn how to be a better listener and create opportunities for honesty.

important for me to share and implement. Tommy was now committed to helping me strategically create the systems that would support the transparency that I sought. When someone knows your core values, they help you stay true to yourself. But another very important thing happens. You get the opportunity to be more yourself. Have you ever been in a relationship or team where you feel like you can't be who you are? Have you ever been in a relationship or on a team that makes you feel great because you get to be more yourself than you knew you could ever be? Take that one step further: Have you ever been in a relationship or on a team where they see more of your potential than you do and help you achieve that potential? Now that is an AMAZING experience. Sharing your core values creates relationships where amazing things happen: You help others reach their potential and they help you reach yours.

Build a Better Business with Collective, Shared Core Values only do I know both of these guys' core values and can see the potential in them that they may not see in themselves, we have a shared set of core values and a shared noble cause that belongs uniquely to us. We learned the power and the importance of this process. I believe that because of this we are able to talk about things on a deeper, more honest and productive level than I would have ever imaged three people can achieve.

Here is what it looks like: Todd shared his Core Values: Positivity, Fun, and Continuous Improvement Russell shared his Core Values: Intimacy, Adventure, and Harmony Mine: Transparency, Fairness, and Collaboration Together we created four shared values which we defined so that we can have spectacular clarity. Creating Collective Values Honor - Regard with great Equally important to sharing respect. your core values, is creating col- Support - To bear the weight of, lective core values with your to hold in position so as to keep team. You need to have this con- from falling, sinking, or slipversation! This is how ping. Culturesync taught me how to Mastery - The desire to grow create collective core values. This and be better. winter when I joined • Compassion - Sympathetic Culturesync's Tribal Leadership Tommy came back. We started Intensive I was assigned a triad consciousness of others' disto hire more people. And all of with two guys. Even though the tress together with a desire to alleviate it. the company systems started intensive has ended, Russell, to be created with core values Todd and I still meet every Now think about your organiin mind. My underlying perTuesday. We wouldn't think of zation or business or even your sonal values of fairness, honmissing it even though we are esty and transparency became "busy" people. Why? Because not family. What would happen if you shared your core values

CSR ByMallen Baker he importance of how companies manage social responsibility across the whole of their production process - including that part owned by their suppliers has been stressed for some years now. Nevertheless, it remains the area where current practice remains pretty poor. The UK's Business in the Community, Corporate Responsibility Index shows that the management of impact in the supply chain remains one of the least developed areas. So it should be of interest that the World Bank, with Business for Social Responsibility, should produce a report seeking to identify some of the barriers to progress in responsible supply chain management. The World Bank began with three challenges, which it sought through this research to prove or dismiss.

The first was that "The plethora of individual buyer CSR codes is now generating inefficiencies and confusion." The second was that "An increasing number of buyers are recognising that traditional top-down CSR strategies are not achieving improved CSR implementation." The third, that "Suppliers have an insufficient understanding of the business benefits associated with making the required investments in CSR." In the case of the first, it will amaze nobody that its research broadly supported the contention. There is a growing dissatisfaction, not to mention frustration, at the growing number of codes,

Buying into social responsibility standards and benchmarks. That being said, there are often very good reasons why different purchasers will stress different approaches, and the participants in the World Bank survey reportedly showed no great enthusiasm for work on a single base code of conduct.

of progress that has been made so far with the former. Some of the most successful supplier programmes - such as that operated by B&Q have been predicated on a strong central direction for conformance, backed by support and help to improve. There are a numIn many areas, the requireber of documented sources ments of codes have converged that suggest the requireof their own volition. The main ments of multinationals improvement to the current have been a big factor in state of affairs would be more improving conditions in opportunities for data and some labour markets information gathered for one although this can never be to be eligible to act as a subconsistent if the national mission for others. legislature of those countries is too weak to enforce The second area is probably decent minimum standards the most contentious. itself. Everyone knows the power of the strong purchaser. If the The third challenge might buyer wants to see standards be instinctively held to be improve, and the alternative is true - and this instinct is that they take their business backed up by the findings of elsewhere, that's going to act the report. By and large supas a pretty major incentive. pliers are resistent to presEven without the compulsion, sure in responsible business practice if they have no it can make a big difference. I understanding of a business remember myself running some well-attended workshops case for how it can benefit the business. It is important, for small to medium sized businesses on environmental therefore, for both buyers and suppliers to undertake policy and practice. Why so some investment in the time well-attended? Principally because the major retailer who and resources to thoroughly establish the best reasons was a number one customer for these suppliers had let it be and processes for going forward. known that it thought they should attend. The truth is that there are However, there's no doubt that mixed perceptions of the degree to which the busisuppliers don't like this ness case actually exists. approach - it is a very blunt tool, and can be extremely con- Even those buyers may feel they have been pushed into fusing if almost every other signal that is received from the their position by public pressure from NGOs the buyer is that it is price alone that makes the difference. The validity of which they may challenge is that there are not reject - so they cannot act as effective agents of change many successful examples of the latter - and there is plenty within their supply chain.

and created a shared set of core values? I know what you may be thinking: "I could never get my employees or my family to agree to this conversation. They'd think I was crazy!" But consider this. I work with business leaders bringing this concept to their businesses. I see the sweat of trying this crazy process but also the great results. Those results are unique except in one respect: trust grows. And the more trust grows; the more gets accomplished to create strategy and synergy. The teams I see moving forward are now starting to solve problems, make

ship. decisions and become valuesdriven organizations. They have • Provide honest feedback to one another. a new language and a new con• Listen (be curious). versation that brings a new • All points of view are con depth to their organization. sidered. Steps to creating a values-based • Practice collaborative gra ciousness. group: • Leverage each other's • Establish and align on Core strengths/manage around Values. weaknesses. • Create a common goal or • Provide accountability. project. • Challenge and speak up • Create safe space. when appropriate. • One for all and all for one It is worth being (responsibility for ourselves and • thought of as a little bit crazy. each other). • Peer to peer to peer relation ship - Protect each relation

Executives Finance Huge Financial Losses - 7 Steps to Wealth Restoration By Don Burnham Have you lost a ton of money from your investments in the past two years? Is your capital gain loss? Does the chart of your net worth for real estate, stocks, bonds, oil or other commodities resemble a cliff? Do your IRA and 401-K remind you of the Titanic? Many people have had huge financial losses. But it does not have to stay that way. There are certain steps that are common to building wealth and restoring wealth- ways to turn your capital loss to capital gain. Let's take a look at them. First, you have to get motivated to build or restore your wealth. Many people feel they are losers when they see their wealth dwindle. This kind of economy is an event. It has nothing to do with your character, but it can build your character. Many react by losing their self-esteem, their health, their faith, their hope, their friends, and even their ability to think clearly. If you are retired or close to retirement age, it takes a huge effort to fight the fear and make yourself do something--anything to move forward. Tell yourself, "If I made it once, I can do it again." In fact, the steps you take in hard times are what create wealth. Second, you need to take a fearless assessment of where you are in all areas of your life: financial, spiritual, emotional, physical, mental and social. Look it squarely, fearlessly. How much does it take you to live? How can you adjust your life to live on less? Add up your assets and liabilities in all areas of your life. Find out where you really are; you may be better off than you think

Third, set goals for yourself in all of those areas, not all at once, but the most obvious, or the easiest to deal with, so you can see quick progress. Write down those goals and post them where you can see them.

opportunity. The whole point is, you may not be able to totally eliminate it, but you do need to learn to manage it, otherwise it will manage you

Sixth, manage your credit. You may need to undergo some Fourth, decide on a strategy for sort of credit repair with a professional. But, in reality, unless reaching at least one of those goals. You may see a combina- there are errors on your credit tion of strategies, but focus on report, the best credit repair is only one at a time. Get it in place simply to do all of the above, and operating before you start and your credit will improve over time. Until then, create a another. realistic money plan. You may Fifth, work on debt managehave to readjust your lifestyle ment. In our society, you will for a few years. This is a doable always have some debt, even if thing. it's only the 30 day credit card variety. The less consumer debt Seventh, take action every day. you have, the more you can put Even baby steps, even a half toward investment. Managing inch forward brings you closer credit may mean you have some to restoring your retirement wealth. investor debt to create the

Action is the foundational key to all success. Pablo Picasso

THE GUARDIAN, Friday, August 16, 2013

26 ARTS

VisualArts Relocating NGA to strengthen art appreciation, preservation By Tajudenn Sowole

HE recent anT nouncement, by the Ministry of Tourism, Culture and National Orientation over the planned redevelopment of a land space within the National Theatre, Iganmu, Lagos may have generated controversies. But the ministry’s plan of relocating the National Gallery of Art {NGA} to give way for part of the purported re-development could bring a better breathing space and functionality to the government agency. According to a statement from the ministry in March this year, three government agencies, including NGA, have been directed to find alternative space to allow for the redevelopment of the affected stretch of land. Responding to the emotion, which the directive generated, the ministry had stated that “what was given to the organizations conD-G, National Gallery of Art (NGA), Muku Abdullahi cerned was not a quit notice, but a simple directive to embark on temporary relocation, consequent upon previous communication, lected government agency, particularly in Nigeria’s quest for tourism development. pending the completion of the project”. It Situated beside its sister agency, NCAC – was therefore assured that “they will all be with a gallery space that rarely functions accommodated eventually in line with the and a permanent exhibition inside the Namaster-plan which Government is detertional Theatre main building, NGA’s Aina mined to implement”. Onabolu Building, even by minimum stanWhile the National Assembly appeared to dard, within Africa, is a mockery of a nahave intervened by diffusing the tension tional gallery. In modern and developed raced, it appears that the directive is still economies around the world, tourism is subsisting, currently, so suggests the conenergized by the volumes of human traffic tinue search, by NGA for an alternative space. “We are yet to get another directive to - foreign and domestic visitors - generated by traditional museums, galleries of art, the contrary”, a member of staff disclosed anonymously few days ago. However, “tem- museums of contemporary art, among sevporary relocation” of NGA is relative than re- eral other culture outlets. For example, The ality: returning to its current space after the Louvre Museum, Paris, France gets a yearly re-redevelopment would be impossible and visit of between 8.7 to 8.9 million in the last three years while the British Museums, U.K; unnecessary, given the oddity of its unsustainable status within the National Theatre The Met Museum, New York, U.S and others on the list of top 20 museums around the area. Carved out of the National Council for Arts world get visitors in millions each year. The economic contributions of such visitand Culture {NCAC} via Decree No 86 of ing to the countries are best imagined. 1993, the NGA has the responsibility to Over the years, concerned artists, art con“serve as a repository of for Nigeria’s crenoisseurs and other interest groups have ative spirits and to promote the appreciation” of the country’s art by “acquiring and agitated for a proper national gallery or collecting Nigerian works of art”. But NGA is museum of contemporary art edifice – not just an administrative office - that will adecurrently obscured and conspicuously absent where it’s most needed. The inability of quately accommodate and preserve collections from the vast creation by Nigerian the NGA to adequately serve its purpose within Lagos is largely due to its current lo- artists. Critics note that countries that cation – the Iganmu axis is completely shut know the value of art, keep their best collections in the local contemporary museout from the art hubs of Lagos. Were the ums. For Nigeria, reverse is the case: best of NGA to predate the National Theatre complex as the National Museum, Onikan was, it the country’s art are daily being sold and taken away from the country. And that would have been situated on the Lagos Issuch collections are not antiquities that land, observers have argued. Given its importance to the development, could be stopped by the subsisting laws, coupled with the inability of NGA to collect appreciation of art, and by extension, en– there is no national gallery of art to keep hancing the promotion of tourism, the and display them – artists and dealers are NGA, currently, is arguably the most negnot restrained from controlling or select-

President, Society of Nigerian Artists (SNA).

ing the categories of work being flown overseas. During the heated debate over the redevelopment of the National Theatre, a source from the NGA disclosed that a temporary place has been identified among the abandoned or disused buildings of the Federal Government in Lagos Island. NGA, the source added, will take possession of the building as soon as all protocols of acquisition have been completed. The new space being envisaged “will be a bigger structure that should have adequate exhibitions and storage rooms for collections”, he said. However, the mismanagement of information and other related strategies in the controversial redevelopment of the National Theatre’s land space seemed to have brought silence over relocation of the government agencies, including NGA. With or without revisiting the controversial redevelopment of National Theatre’s stretch of land is an alternative, but temporary space for NGA on Lagos Island still on the table of government? “So far, no directive has been received to discontinue the process of relocation,” another senior member of staff of NGA confirmed. In fact, the search for an alternative space, he disclosed may have come to an end. A disused federal government building situated between the Tafawa Balewa Square and City Mall, in Onikan, he said, “will most likely be the new NGA building”. Indeed, a higher volume of art related activities such as exhibitions, commercial and non-commercial related art events take place within Lagos and Victoria Island axis. And given the fact that these two areas are the central business districts that daily attract local and foreign business transaction, and by extension leisure such as tourism via

culture patronage, a national art gallery or museum of contemporary art, it has been argued should be located within such areas for proximity to potential patronage. And that NGA’s biggest art event in Lagos, the International Art Expo Nigeria has been holding yearly in Onikan, Lagos Island {inside the National Museum} confirms the islands as Nigeria’s art hubs. During the opening of the 2011 edition of Art Expo, for example, one of the nation’s top art collectors, Chief Rasheed Gbadamosi used the event to revisit the quest for a befitting gallery of art. He advised the government to convert one of the disused buildings in Lagos Island to a temporary use of NGA while the proposed Abuja edifice, which has not even taken off, is being awaited. Gbadamosi’s concern was perhaps a sign of frustration that the lack of a proper contemporary museum of art or national gallery does not encourage private donors of art to boost national collections. A higher volume of the best of Nigerian art is in private collections. More worrisome, most of the top collectors are aging; raising anxiety over the future of their vast collection in the hands of family or managers of their estate after death. For example the fear of losing collection to poor management after the death of a patriarch was confirmed last year during the memorial art symposium and exhibition organised for late renowned artist, Akinola Lasekan {1916-1972}, by his family. Out of over 15 works of Lasekan displayed during the exhibition, less than six were original paintings; the rest were wither printout from the internet or reproduced photographs. In fact the exhibition also exposed gross mismanagement of collection by past government agencies. Sources disclosed that only two out of the eight of the artist’s works donated to government for the 2nd World Black and African Festival of Art and Culture {FESTAC ‘77} survived the inadequate management of collections under the government agencies. Apparently, the disadvantage of inadequate museum of contemporary art or national gallery has already started causing irreparable damage. A visit to the former temporary, but rented building of NGA in Abuja few years ago showed that indeed, the agency lacked the resources to keep collecting art: works were stacked in a highly non-preservation friendly space. For Gbadamosi and others who look forward to a befitting national gallery edifice in Lagos, they are probably unaware of another angle to the delay. It was gathered that a national gallery building in Lagos could stop the proposed NGA headquatre being planned for Abuja.

THE GUARDIAN, Friday, August 16, 2013

ARTS 27

For Nigerian artists, Artworld of materials blossoms Stories by Tajudenn Sowole HEN artists and art lovers joined the W management of foremost art materials group, Ab Artworld for the opening of a new facility at Ojuelegba, Lagos it was a celebration of over 20 years of feeding Nigerian visual arts with quality art materials. Currently operating with branches in Ikoyi, Surulere), Ibadan, Benin, Port Harcourt and Abuja, the headquatre was formerly located along Ojuelegba road. On this Saturday afternoon, activities and attention moved just few metres away to the new head office, a fourfloor building off Ojuelegba rood, Surulere. Elated by the high volume of well wishers, mostly artists, the Chief Executive Officer, Alex Ewuzie stated that the organization, since inception has achieved “key milestones” in the business of supplying materials for the creative industry. The ultimate goal of Ab Artworld, he stressed is about affordable, but quality art materials. “In line with our core vision and mission statements, we are committed to fostering the easy and affordable access to quality art materials, books and equipment that would improve and sustain the world acclaimed outcome of the visual arts industry in Nigeria”. And quite thoughtful of the management; a gallery for art exhibitions has been included in the new head office. If the posture of Ab Artworld, by having an inaugural exhibition at the opening was anything to hold on to, artists may heave a sigh of relief; an exhibition space on the Lagos mainland provides alternative to the art gallery spaces in choice areas of Lagos and Victoria Islands. Also, a studio space is available for artists who wish to work outside their private environment. Ewuzie explained that the art gallery and studio spaces are for emerging and established artists to enhance and show their work, thereby “fostering and developing critical/artistic dialogues” For the maiden exhibition as part of the opening ceremony, works of Fidel Oyiogu Jefferson Jonathan, Tyna Adebowale, Peter Akinwunmi and Victoria Udondian were on display. The curatorial consultant of the gallery, Jude Anogwih noted that the artists selected for the show “represent the diversity and dynamics of Nigeria’s fast rising art profession”. He assured that, indeed, “more exhibitions are coming before the end of the year”. Beside exhibition, the gallery, Ewuzie added will be available for gathering of artists “for

Painter, Kolade Oshinowo (left), printmaker, Dr Bruce Onobrakpeya and CEO, AB Artworld, Alex Ewuzie during the opening of the head office in Lagos workshops, seminars, and creative interactions thus providing needed opportunities for emerging artists to learn, work and share confidently their work”. Shortly after declaring the Ab Artworld building opened, the chairman of the occasion and master printmaker stated that the new art material centre “is a sign that the Nigerian art industry is really growing”. He noted that it’s not surprising such a development is coming from Ab Artworld, “having been consistent for a long time”. Recalling how Artworld shop pleasantly made him “embarrassed” himself some years ago, prolific painter, Kolade Oshinowo said he used to think that the best of art materials were not available in Nigeria, until he was proven wrong by Ab Artworld. “I was so elated after buying an easle with wheels in London. But I later saw the same brand and

exact quality when I got to Alex’s shop”. More importantly, the tool, Oshinowo disclosed was “even cheaper here than the one I bought abroad”. Ewuzie argued that the Nigerian creative environment is “promising, with increased patronage of art”. His organisation’s “corporate interest, through this one-stop facility”, remains strong, he assured. Ab Artworld’s company profile states that it is Nigeria’s leading wholesale and retail outlet for fine art, graphics, craft and architectural materials in Nigeria anda leading provider of quality picture and art framing services. The organisation enjoys a wide range of technical and trade support from our overseas Partners in the United Kingdom, United States of America and China. It has sole franchise for the the world’s leading art material brand, Winsor and Newton range of products in Nigeria as

well as retail other top brands like Emafyl frames, Rotring, Schneider, Reeves, Polymark and Staedler. It also has strong retail relationship with over 20 other leading art material retailers nationwide. It’s mission statement assures customers with the most comprehensive range of quality products at competitive prices while guaranteeing both satisfaction and a worthwhile experience. In making the mission a reality, AB Artworld seeks to pursue a transformational agenda driven by the quest for excellence in all facets of our operations. We are embarking on this journey because of our realization that great organizations that outlast successive cycles of harsh economic conditions and remain in leadership positions over the long term all have one thing in com-

In Echoes From The Wood, Otigbo-Ekpei dialogues ETWEEN sculptor, Veronica Otigbo-Ekpei B and the ‘spirits’ of the forest, there is a dialogue, via the wood.

with the traditional religious settings, particularly, in the sculpturing genre, further strengthens the myth. For OtigboThe relationship between the artist and the Ekpei, there appears to be some kind of wood seems to be so strong such that, even her spirituality too, but on non-religious, difdeforestation activities appear like a pleasant ferent spiritual realm not linked to the kind that soothes nature. African myth. She describes her motivaFor over two decades, Otigbo-Ekpei perhaps, tion as “unseen forces in the wood, yearnhas been searching for the root of her attaching for attention”. The forces, she explains ment to sculpture. But in the new body of work “are itching to express themselves titled Echoes From the Wood, the link surfaces, through my work”. during a chat with the artist inside art gallery Whatever the tones of the wood’s yearnof Terra Kulture, Victoria Island, Lagos where ings before the trees of the forest falls to the works will be showing from August 24 till the machines’ cutters, the sculptor might 30, 2013. not have an idea. But, usually, she interOtigbo-Ekpei had her last solo outing with cepts the transition – before “they are Back In Time at National Museum, Onikan, moved for other purposes” such as for doLagos in 2007. mestic or industrial materials. Woodcarving or sculpturIn nearly every piece of wood ing and she rescues, there is usually an African invitation. One of the works religious that best explains her sculpobjects tural intervention in wood is a have relief-like portrait titled Headbeen gear. It could readily pass for linked, a three dimensional piece as such that the gele {headgear}, though even in looms larger than life over contempothe face, suggesting a semirary time, relief rendition. the myth However, she groups the would not body of work into three, just disapbased on experimentation, pear. And material and themes. that some From the three categories, artists have comes what seems like a traced their deviation from her regucreative tralar all wood affairs as jectory to anpainting struggles to add cestral ties aesthetic value to the natural texture of wood. In recent times, some sculptors, eiHeadgear, from Veronica Otigbother of the metal and wood medium, are Ekpei’s Echoes From The Wood.

suddenly adding paint to their work. For Otigbo-Ekpei, is it an attempt to appease the largely traditional painting art lovers of Lagos’ art scene who, for different reasons, are not well disposed to sculptural pieces? “No”, she says. “Painting the wood breathes life into the concept”. She explains that it’s about showing how it’s possible to “show that out of waste, something beautiful can be achieved”. Sculptural works in wood by quite a number of Nigerian artists, including OtigboEkpei seems to have proven that, even woods, by nature have pigments of colour, which could be used by artists in divers ways based on chosen concept. This much, her figural piece, Drummer stresses, exuding hues of brown. In experimentation, a set of works she groups in the third category and describes as “button art” offers a fresh dimension. One of the works, African Lady, a portraiture in collage, also attempts to take the notion of colour and aesthetic back to the traditional painting genre. She says it’s inspired by the presence of “coloutful buttons” unavoidably seen in markets. “I found lots of bright-coloured buttons staring at me, and could not resist the temptation of making experiment with them”. Other works in the button art group include Flower, Sunset, Dripping Colours, Teenage and Broken Dream. Still on the central theme, Echoes from the Wood, the artist says about how “what has become my voice and language that are clearly translated through my sculptural works. “My sculptural works speak volumes about my thoughts and feelings from the sketches to the finished work. It gives me joy and satisfaction seeing wood in its rough and shapeless form being transformed into an unbelievable object to Veronica Otigbo-Ekpei in her studio communicate”.

28 ARTS

THE GUARDIAN, Friday, August 16, 2013

Revue

Prof Tunde Babawale; Prof J.K. Olupona; Oba Dokun Abolarin; Governor Mimiko; Mrs Fagunwa; and the Keynote Speaker, Prof Wole Soyinka… at the start of the conference on August 8, 2013… in Akure

Fagunwa’s literary exploits in focus, 50 years after exit By Gbenga Salau E was a master storyteller and his five major H works bear testimonies to this towering profile. Though, in the literary world map, he may not be visible before and after his death, his works are however classic that could compete with any of the best fictions around the globe. Fifty years after Daniel Fagunwa transited, his outputs remain reference point in the appreciation of the contribution of literary enterprise to human development. And for three days (August 8 to 10) last week in Akure, scholars and literary giants from far and near gathered to celebrate this storyteller through an international conference. To many, having a three-day conference on the creative works of a man whose medium of communication was Yoruba and was not celebrated as a national icon let alone global icon may be a waste of time. But by the time curtains fell on the conference, the creativity embedded in Fagunwa’s novels became clear even to an average person as each of the presenter in the plenary sessions peeped into the dynamics of the books from different perspectives that range from culture, religion, environment, language, gender among others. Throughout the conference, there was no dull moment as robust debates and lively plenary sessions were the hallmarks of the conference. In his life time, Fagunwa had devoted his creativity to folklore and magical realism with Yoruba language as the purveyor. Probably, he was not bothered about the global acceptance of his writings because though he could communicate and write fluently in English, he consistently used his native language for his creative works. And looking at the array of literary stars and scholars who were speakers at the conference on 50 years after he passed on, the globe, no doubt, is appreciating his talents with the language of communication not a barrier. A further proof of the global acceptance and appreciation of his creativity is that his books had been translated into different languages among which are English and French. In one of the sessions, Professor Olaoye Abioye, who had translated one of his books into French spoke on: Challenges of Translating Fagunwa’s Novels: Personal Experience. Abioye noted that Fagunwa is not an easy

author to translate into any language, local, foreign, African or European. According to him, literary translation by its utilitarian nature resembles the postal services that link people in space and time. “It promotes understanding, reduces prejudices, fosters growth and development and widens scope of comparative literature. It enables cultures to dialogue and encourages reciprocity. “The first obstacle in the way of a would-be translator (not just of Fagunwa) is to resolve the nagging question of whether translation is possible. We are of the mind that translation is both possible and desirable. The only thing is that a would-be literary translator should never equate translation (from one language into another) with emptying the liquid content of glass A into glass B. Unless care is taken, some of such liquid content may be lost either through pouring away or through evaporation. “Next to that is the linguistic competence of the would-be translator in the two languages involved that is source language and target language. In this regard, we would like to agree with the Dryden (quoted in Schuttle et al 1992:1) “that a man should be nice critic in his mother-tongue before he attempts to translate a foreign language…” Here lies the challenge as it has been observed that many native speakers of the Yoruba language can hardly be described as being proficient in the use or understanding of the language. “How then can such native speakers of the Yoruba language attempt a translation of a Fagunwa novel?” Abioye queried. Commenting on Sex and Plot (ting) in Fagunwa, Prof. Adeleke Adeeko of Ohio State University, stated that from Akara-ogun to Adiitu, love drives Fagunwa’s leading men as they put themselves in harm’s way for the love of their homelands. “Their love for fellow adventurers knows no bound. However, none surpasses monogamous, heterosexual love. He gave an insight into why critical changes in the many heroic self-direction plots that define Fagunwa’s fiction typically occur at the expense of women.” Describing Fagunwa as an icon of West African literary tradition, Prof. Saheed Yinka Adejumobi of Seattle University, who spoke on Empires and Utopias: Fagunwa, Civilization and

the Nation State said that Fagunwa’s oeuvre resides at the vital intersection of the most ambitious political project of modernity in Western Nigeria, on the one hand and broader West African intellectual history, on the other. “In the 20th century, utopian narratives were grounded in the rejection of imperial rule, debates over the reconfiguration of historical and spatial freedom and Empire’s claim of moral standing in modernization and development projects. Fagunwa’s literary work complemented a grand political project — the vision of alternative ways of living that are more just and satisfying for members of society than the existing nation state. “His homespun strategic utopian narratives embodied the West African heritage of cosmopolitanism and the nation state. Fagunwa’a narrative never compromised their Yoruba identity. They served as an alternative ‘commonwealth’ grounded in the lessons and ethos of the civilization state rotted in critical interrogation of both epochal and quotidian experience.” He used Fagunwa’s narratives to explore the tensions between the heritage of civilizations and the nation state in Nigeria analysing the provenance and legacy of his Yoruba novels in the construction of a broader 21st century universal enlightenment project. Adejumobi argued that such stories remained at the spiritual core a counter-hegemonic force in resistance to the unbridled excesses of civilizations and nations states. Prof. Tola Badejo of Wesley University of Science and Technology, Ondo, examined the book from the perspective of The Zoologist in D.O. Fagunwa. He noted that several authors have looked at Fagunwa’s works from many perspectives but a few of these perspectives are the moral messages in his works, his dexterous description of weird elements as well as vague and real characters, warriors missing in action, expositions of and reward for human behaviour such as perseverance, treachery, retribution. He said that others are symbolism of characters, places and objects and plots, appropriateness of the use of proverbs, the perfectness of expressive imagery, expertise in the use of similes and metaphors, the perfect expression of humour through parody and witty expressions, love, expression of it and its deadly serious nature, portrayal of women as creatures with a wide array of character traits ranging from rivalry in polygamous

homes through betrayal to rescue mission in times of extreme stress and difficulty. He revealed that the Zoologist in D. O. Fagunwa is brought to bear in the animal characters in his novels disclosing that Fagunwa referred to 57 animals in Ogboju Ode Ninu Igbo Irunmole; 45 in Igbo Olodumare; 52 in Irinkerindo Ninu Igbo Elegbeje; 61 in Ireke Onibudo; 73 in Adiitu Olodumare. To Badejo, in all of Fagunwa’s stories, animals were used as tools to communicate effectively with the reader noting that his reference to yanmuuyanm, the mosquito in Ogboju represents an imagination that can only come from the mind of a Zoologist. “His various references to Agiliti, the monitor lizard suggests that he was quite familiar with the habits and behavioural traits of this reptile. Fagunwa’s mastery of the habits of birds such as the nest-building and foraging activities of Eiye ega, the weaver bird, the characteristic peculiar calls of Elulu, the black-throated Coucal and Agbe, the ground hornbill which were described in Ogboju and Igbo will make the modern day ornithologist envious. “The ostrich is a large flightless bird that Fagunwa used to express strong views on conservation of animals. His description of the Peacock in Adiitu which he compared with 13 other birds in respect of shared traits and supremacy of the Peacock provides further evidence of the zoologist in him. “Fagunwa knew not only the habits of animals but also their global distribution. He confirmed in Ogboju that elephants were endemic to Africa and India and that all domesticated animals once lived in the wild. The story of Kolokolo, the sharp and witty fox and the Lion, which he used to illustrate opposite ends of the continuum of human behaviour, could not have been presented vividly as he did by a non-zoologist. “Fagunwa’s understanding of animal behaviour and adaptation to the environment were demonstrated in Igbo in the description of the environment behind his house where he used alangba, the lizard and birds as his descriptive tools. In his description of a heavy downpour in Adiitu, in sharp contrast to a sunny day in Igbo, Fagunwa portrayed the earthworm as an invertebrate that thrives well under waterlogged conditions. “In his encounter with Arogidigba in Ireke, Fagunwa demonstrated the knowledge of the fact that there are semi aquatic snakes and mammals. He also expressed the fact that the ocean is a more turbulent, harsh and larger aquatic environment than the river.” Badejo argued that no student of Fisheries, Limnology and Oceanography would disagree with the description of the aquatic habitats and the creatures that live inside them by Fagunwa through the utterances of Arogidigba, the mermaid. Fagunwa, he insisted, “deserves commendation because in spite of not having formal training in Zoology, he understood how nature should be exploited without the element of cruelty in 1949, very many years before the average Nigerian citizen became aware of environmental protection while exploiting nature.” On his part, Prof. Niyi Osundare, speaking on Fagunwa: The Debt We Owe His Genius, said that his coming could not have been more auspicious, his genius more prodigious. Osundare noted that Fagunwa blazed the trail of a written national literature in the indigenous language with a virtuosity and visionary precocity that have left succeeding generations in awe and in his debt. According to him, “names, anecdotes, episodes and ideas from his works have leapt from the printed page and melted into street parlance and idiomatic phraseology with a facility and consistency that are only achievable by epochal writers and monumental works.” The presentation also examined ways “Fagunwa’s legacy has shaped the content and style of notable Yoruba works and writers of Yoruba extraction.” Prof. Femi Osofisan described Fagunwa as a novelist of rare imaginative power, noting that the pages of his books ripple with drama, action and suspense, colourful character, each with some extravagant cognomen. “It is a world therefore that would seem exceedingly apt for theatrical adaptation. But that however, is only on the surface of things. In reality, the playwright who embarks on such a task soon discovers, with astonishment, that adapting Fagunwa is like undertaking a journey into one of his forests. The exercise becomes a tussle with myriad ogres of interpretation, myriad knots of untidy entangled narrations. And

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THE GUARDIAN, Friday, August 16, 2013

When world literati gathered to celebrate Fagunwa CONTINUED FROM PAGE 28 without great care, one could easily lose faith or direction in the exercise.” Osofisan attributed this to “Fagunwa’s multiple and continuously self-regenerating plots, as interesting and fascinating as they are for the genre of prose fiction, can be for the playwright a structural nightmare, given the spatial constraints within which he finds himself obliged to work.” On how to encourage more writers to use the indigenous language as a tool of communication, Osofisan said that anybody that wants his literature in Yoruba should not be thinking of the market because such writer thinks of the market, much will not be achieved. “At the moment, market is very much dominated by products from the West, the pop culture. And if we are going to wait for the market, we would not get anywhere but if we want to promote Yoruba culture and other indigenous languages, it has to be a deliberate policy of the government. “If they invest in it not because they want to get immediate profit but that the language does not die and it has to be financed by the government. It would take a campaign and if you are going to do that, you do many things. One is to have conferences on Yoruba, indigenous languages’ authors and encourage young writers. Another is to establish prizes for literature in Yoruba. “And I have always said it, how much do we need? If today you put ten thousand dollars on a prize in Yoruba literature, you will be surprised how many people who will want to write. And no state government can say it cannot afford that in a year. Also, there is need to encourage publishers, there could be a prize for translators. Then we need to start journals, magazines or illustrated comics. “I do not see why they cannot do that because when they have a state party, they know how much they spend on such.” For Prof. Dan Izevbaye, there are two basic assumptions behind the conference, which is tool for driving knowledge in any society or culture and collecting the progress that different researchers and scholars have made and bringing them together, reviewing, testing them, which drives knowledge. “We now need to start to explore our own culture. A great amount of work has been done so far. The achievement of this conference is that it has picked on a major writer in an African language and given an international dimension to research in that field. So, it expands knowledge in the area of literature, language, skill that people have in translation, translating Fagunwa into English, which makes Fagunwa international, because by virtue of these translations, it makes his works available to those who are not literate in Yoruba. “It also involves government because the backing of the Ondo State Government has been important to make this conference possible but it is also important because it shows the practical way in which a government can contribute to the development of knowledge and modernization of culture.” Izevbaye suggested that teaching indigenous languages in schools would give room for the citizens not to read literature in English or French only. On the diminishing availability of novels in Yoruba, Osundare felt it is the tragic irony of “our life that people do not want to write in Yoruba because they are afraid there will be no audience.” He believed that a race with over 30 million people writing a novel that is targeted at such people should not be a problem because if such writer sells just a million copies, is a lot. “Our problem is that our values are upside down. Language is not just what we use to communicate; it is also a grid of value system. People do not respect a language if that language is not considered useful to them. People will not respect a language if that language is just there. The problem with us is that the language of power, authority that matter in Nigeria has been English. This is why everybody is rushing to speak and learn it. “Even people who do not know much of it, this is why parents are discouraging their kids from learning the indigenous language. It is a big problem. The world in Fagunwa’s time is more organised and sensible than we have now. And the irony again is that Nigeria was under colonial rule at that time, and colonial rule was efficient for the people. “The man whose intellectual achievement we are celebrating did not go beyond teacher’s training college, St Andrew’s College, Oyo. He did not have a university degree, look at the works he had produced. And when I read his essays in English, I am also amazed. Look at the number of books he read, the experiences he gained. “Nigeria made it possible for him to do so at that time. Compare that to what is happening now, we have become an illiterate country. The library of St Andrew’s College was rich and I have spoken to many people who attended that college and I have benefitted from their experience as I was taught by a lot of people who went through the school. “For us to solve this problem, we have to start from the political end, getting the right people in the

right position and making sure that our leaders are literate including respecting our indigenous culture. The money that should be used for developing this country is being stolen by them and their family and put away in foreign banks to acquire estate in Dubai.” Prof. Jacob Olupona suggested that the South Western Nigeria and Yoruba in particular must take Yoruba language and literature seriously. He lamented “situation where people do not even encourage their children to speak the language, where English language has virtually taken over. Charity begins at home, encourage your children to speak the language, speak the language to them and through that we would continue to see the values of the culture. “The problem is that people are conflicting the practice of Orisha with Yoruba language and literature. Those who want to practice Orisha, let them practice Orisha, if you are a Christian or a Muslim, practice your religion. Prof. Soyinka (L); Mimiko; and Ekiti State Governor, Dr Kayode Fayemi “The second is that we need to take back to the school, the compulsory teaching of Yoruba language. South West governments should make it compulsory, as from year one to high school, Yoruba should be taught, offered and tested in exam. If you put this in place, in five years, you are going to see the result as people will be literate and understand the values. It is not what you create but what is practiced.” In taking the Fagunwa’s idea to the next level, he suggested setting up a Fagunwa society in the diaspora and Nigeria including the state government supporting the Fagunwa foundation to do more things. Prof. Moradewun Adejunmobi expressed satisfaction that many of the copies of Fagunwa’s works are being published and translated “because there was a time it was difficult to lay hands on his books. “It will also be good that such books are assigned as syllabus text and we should not give up even if such Yoruba novels are not assigned as syllabus text. We could have the translation, which could encourage people to want to read the original of the book. So, in our schools we need to pay attention to the literature and other aspects of our culture and have classes that can instruct young people about what their culture Guests at the conference and heritage is.” She also suggested that to encourage the use of indigenous languages, a lot of changes has to happen at the level of government policy. “Countries that have succeeded in using the indigenous language have ended choosing one of the languages among the many that they have. In Nigeria, it is estimated that we have between 250 and 400 languages and no individual group will agree to give up his language, which is why there is a challenge. “But we have to look for middle ground that allows languages from different parts of the country to survive, flourish and thrive. So, we have to think of a balance where we can promote Yoruba within the context of the south west”. She also believed that beyond the policy formulation, creative writing is a very important tool because people who are not interested in Yoruba language enjoys Yoruba films and stories. “I am looking at a situation where radio and television stations read Fagunwa’s book and other Yoruba authors. Many young Yoruba cannot read Yoruba in a literature text but they will be very happy to listen to the reading, if turning it into a film could be expensive.” Prof. Oyeronke Oyewumi in her paper crossexamined the life and writing of Fagunwa from gender perspective and the inordinate role of male writers in representing the Yoruba language, history and culture as male dominant. The Director General of CBAAC, Prof Tunde Babawale and one of the daughters of the late Fagunwa, ‘Diwura In a chat on how to encourage writers to use the indigenous language as a tool for communication, Oyewumi said that it would take having laws instituting the Yoruba or the indigenous languages as the language of communication, commerce, language of society. This to her will help immediately raise the level of the language and people will want to write in those language. “With regards to Fagunwa, indeed part of what has come out in this conference is that Fagunwa has suffered for having written in Yoruba, people will say he has suffered. But I don’t know why knowledge in the West should be our major criteria for anything. Most importantly, I agree with the Kenya writer who insisted that we must write in African languages and there is nothing wrong in writing in African languages,” Oyewunmi said. All said and done, the conference succeeded in creating awareness about the significance of indigenous language in the preservation of our rich cultural value and heritage as accolades have continued to pour in for the organisers and partners such as Fagunwa Study Group; the Fagunwa Foundation; the Centre for Black and African Arts and Civilisation (CBAAC); the Centre for Black Culture and International Understanding (CBCIU); and Ondo State Government. Prof Olufemi Taiwo; Prof Olabiyi Yai; and Associate Professor Saheed Yinka Adejumobi

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THE guaRDIan, Friday, august 16, 2013

How Fagunwa died at River Guya in Bida, by wife Mrs. Elizabeth Adebamke Fagunwa is the wife of the late Yoruba pioneer writer and eminent folklorist, Daniel O. Fagunwa. Last week, a conference on Fagunwa 50 years after his exit was held in Akure, Ondo State. During the conference, Gbenga Salau spoke with her on the controversy around the death of her husband among other issues. Exceprts: Could you tell us the circumstances of your husband’s death because there are conflicting information on it? agunwa died on Saturday, December 7, 1963; he traveled to the north to advertise Heinemann’s books because he was the manager. He brought Heinemann to nigeria. He left Ibadan where we lived on november 15. On the day he died, he wanted to come back early so he had left the hotel he slept in Bida, niger State, early in the morning of December 7. He woke as early as 5am; this was as his driver told us. There is a river in Bida called River guya. There was no bridge over it; so people cross the river through what is called Puntu. It carries people and vehicles across the river and it was the issue of ‘first come first serve’. The driver said that they were the first to get there on the day, but while waiting, Fagunwa decided to stroll along the river. Incidentally, he slipped and fell into the river. unfortunately, there was a canoe there. He fell into the canoe and the canoe capsized sending him down into the river. when he was discovered the third day, he had his reading glasses, shoes and cap on and his dress intact. But for the fact that the canoe capsized and he got sunk, he would have managed himself out of the river because he was a very good swimmer. But you can imagine that the canoe sent him down into the river unexpectedly. anyway, he died and the driver sent a message to the family in Ibadan. On the third day, he was found near where he drowned, which means that the canoe would have sent him down, down the river. So he was brought to Ibadan where we lived on Monday, then the following day, Tuesday, he was taken to OkeIgbo, where a funeral service was arranged for him in his church, St. Luke anglican Church, Oke-Igbo. The service was conducted by ministers of anglican sect and he was buried in the church cemetery, very close to the church; that was on December 10, 1963, a Tuesday. when you got news of his death, how did you receive it, how did you feel? Incidentally, that day I travelled to Oke-Igbo. The Vicar in charge of St. Luke Church lost his wife at childbirth. So I went to sympathise with the family of the bereaved because he would

not take it kindly if he came back and I told him I had not done anything. I knew that if he was in Ibadan, he would have sent me there, if it was not convenient for him to go personally. I woke up as early as 5am around the time he drowned. On coming back from Oke-Igbo the same day, along our street, there was an elderly man. Everybody around had heard before I came back. So, this elderly man, immediately he saw me from his building, he asked where I had been, that neighbours had been asking after me. and I replied him that nobody had been asking after me. But later, I got to know that he was only trying to cheer me up. I went straight into our house, and sympathisers were in the house. My elder sister was also there and I asked her what she was looking for and she said she came to see me. and I replied that I told her I would be travelling and she said that she just felt that I would have been back by then. Later on, the some people began to come in one after the other. Before then one of my children, Yejide came to me to say, ‘mummy, I was told one big fish fell into the water’. This is because the issue had been discussed before I came and I felt she would not imagine that a human being would get sunk in a river. and I replied her that if a fish fell into the river, then we would eat it when it is seen. not knowing it was her father and my husband. So these people came into the sitting room to meet me; they came near me, and someone gripped me. and I was informed that Baba Dipo (Fagunwa) is dead. This is somebody I was expecting that Saturday. I howled but I was comforted. and I thought that was the end of the world because of the children he left behind. I was young then also because he was too dear to me, very humble and loving. I took all those things into consideration and I felt very bad. But thank god, after some years, I got over it, not completely because I still remember him as a very good man, the best man in the world, the best man god ever produced. How did two of you meet to become man and wife? I’m also from Oke-Igbo, his home town, so we met there. He had a younger sister, Mrs. Ojo; it was she who introduced him to me and my parents. after some visits, I agreed to marry him. That was in 1956. I decided to marry him because at that time I would rather have somebody from my home town because in those days people were not really going outside their area to marry and because he came from a very good and religious family background. was there any personal quality that endeared him to you? anybody that met him, even for the first time, would see the kindness in him, the humour with which he discusses and the generosity in him. when people visited us, he was never satisfied if he could not offer a drink or food; so all those things made me like him. I was less than 30because I was 31 when he died and the relationship only lasted for about eight years. How would you describe those eight years with him? Fantastic! One would be proud of any man who is understanding, kind, humorous, loving, almost kind and generous to a fault. He embraced all the people who came to him, irrespective of religious or ethnic background. Meeting fagunwa, you cannot resist liking him. He sponsored some students’ education up to the university, students, whose parents could not afford the bill, he sponsored them. He helped the poor. There was a man whose wife gave birth and he could not foot the hospital bill, and immediately the man ran to our house, the man was a family friend. unfortunately, Fagunwa was not at home, so when he came, I said ‘sorry, Baba Dipo is not home’. The man lamented, and I said ‘why are you lamenting, this is not the first time you will not meet him at home’,

he said ‘yes’. He said he came because his wife was in the hospital and he needed some cash to pay the hospital bill. I was a teacher so I gave him the money. when Fagunwa came, I told him about the man and that he was in need of money. He asked what I did and I said I gave him the money; he was very excited. He went into the room immediately and gave me the money back with interest. So, I cannot just describe him; that was why I said I will not remarry after he died. I was still young; I could have remarried. But I felt I already have children, male and female; also he was so kind to me, treated me with every respect one would expect. He would not rain abuses on me whenever I went wrong; he would not scold me. He had a nick name for; he would call me by that name and suggested alternative of it to me when I did things wrongly. So, I felt if I marry another man, I may be inviting unhappiness. also, I was proud of him and his works, and I did not regret the action. where you privy to his writing? Can you tell what inspired him to write? He was gifted by god because he was an extraordinary man in thinking. If he was alive and he looked at this hall where we are, he could write a book from it. whereas you will be thinking, ‘how can I write a page’ but he could write a book. It was a gift. If he was talking about people, praise-singing them, you will wonder. In writing his books, he had inspiration more during the night. He would wake up to write; sometimes, he would drive around town then enter his room to write. also, if he had visitors and some ideas came to him, he would take permission to write it down and he would tell them why he took the permission. Furthermore, he had a peaceful home and loving children; nobody troubled him. Did he have a special room for reading and writing? no; he could write anywhere. He could stop while driving to write. which of his five major books did he write after he married you? after I married him, he wrote Adiitu Eledumare. He was writing another one

before he died. unfortunately, we could not trace it. Did you read any of his books before you married him? I was a school teacher and we were using his books in the primary school. So all his books we read them. In his books, the use of superlatives was exceptional. what was it like at home? Did he use them as well? If he chose to read his books, it was to make us laugh; he would put some into songs. and we would just wonder where he found the tune for the song. He would do it to me and the children. He was humourous, generosity, and when you talk about his qualities, good adjectives go with them. when I was sometimes angry, he would sing praises to me. I would just smile and that would be the end. Did he ask for inputs from you when he wrote? He did the writings alone though he could draw descriptions from people and things around, including his home and family members. what has life been for you since his passing 50 years ago? god is our refuge and in god we trusted and He did not let us down because He did not allow us to suffer. He has been awesome and merciful to us. My three children went to university, yet they did not lack anything. I was a teacher earning monthly salary; then there was royalties from his books administered by our lawyer, Babalakin. The children’s school fees were paid but every other thing came from me. The children did not suffer and did not complain and because I had a job, and I was able to take care of them. would you say staying in Oke-Igbo shaped the way he wrote and painted the scenes in his books? For years, he was away from Oke-Igbo. He was born in 1903, and he attended Saint andrews College in 1925. after leaving Saint andrew’s College, he never came back to Oke-Igbo. He started from Oyo Town; then he was transferred around. and like it is often said, experience is the best teacher. So, he might have been shaped by the different experiences he had going around which he put into his writings.

THE GUARDIAN, Friday, August 16, 2013

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THE GUARDIAN, Friday, August 16, 2013

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Public Speaking and Presentation Training Course Date(s): 14/09/2013 Location: Precinct Comfort Hotel, Yaba, Lagos Promoter: LiveSpeech Ventures During this highly participatory 2-day training, delegates will go through five course modules working on a relevant topic of their choice, developing a presentation, presenting to the group, and getting feedback. You will learn step-by-step how to build a clearer, more organised, and more compelling presentation from start to finish ALL BY YOURSELF. TICKETS: Regular 25,000.

Taylor Swift ‘forgives ex-boyfriend Harry Styles’

NeW report claims pop princess Taylor Swift has finally forgiven her ex Harry Styles eight months after the superstar couple broke up. According to The Sun, singer-songwriter ed Sheeran has helped to ‘heal the rift’ between his two pals. A source told the tabloid: “Harry was ready to move on months ago and try to remain friends, but Taylor hadn’t let go of what happened. “ed didn’t mention Harry for a while, but over the past few weeks Taylor started bringing him up.” Taylor and Harry’s good friend ed have been criss-crossing the States together for the best part of a year, performing shows on her US Red tour. The source continued: “She made it clear that she didn’t want frostiness between her and Harry any more. She feels she has moved on to a better place - and Harry should know that.”

Orlando Bloom to play Batman?

RLANDO Bloom is the latest actor tipped to play Batman. O According to the Daily Express, the Lord of the Rings star is “hot favourite” to play the Cape Crusader in the forthcoming

The CEO's Network

Superman Vs. Batman flick. Following the announcement of the joint superhero movie at San Diego Comic-Con International in July, the likes of Armie Hammer and Christian Bale have all been rumoured to star opposite Man of Steel’s Henry Cavill. However, Bale previously said that he would not be reprising the role following the end of the Dark Knight Rises Trilogy, with Hammer also ruling himself out of the running. The Bourne Ultimatum actor Scott Adkins is also apparently set to audition for the role, with some reports suggesting Warner Brothers want an older actor to play Bruce Wayne.

Date(s): 21/09/2013 Location: Pearl Court Hotel, Parkview Estate, Ikoyi. Promoter: Solva Global Business Consulring You are cordially invited to the exclusive CEO's Network event. This is a unique opportunity to meet key decision makers in various industries and to promote your products and services. TICKETS: Regular 7,500.

BUY TICKETS TO ALL YOUR FAVOURITE EVENTS ONLINE NOW! For more information: www.afritickets.com

Nollywood gets another platform to showcase African stories By Florence Utor He grand ballroom of Oriental Hotel, Lekki, T Lagos was filled to capacity last weekend as Nollywwood practitioners and other dignitaries attended the official launch of Africa Movie Channel. The 24-hour channel is dedicated to showing only quality African movies and series primarily from Nollywood. It was first launched in May 2011, with its technical partners, Advanced Broadcast Services (ABS), one of the largest TV facilities companies in europe, providing a fully managed playout service. Though its first channel in europe started operations in 2006, as an online digital distribution of Nollywood movies and drama series at full-screen DVD quality, and a year later through its online On-Demand channel, and a partnership with British Telecom (BT) on its BT Vision Download Store. explaining why another channel dedicated to African movies was necessary despite the existing ones, Yinka Mayunbgo, one of the directors of the channel, said quality was a key factor, adding, “we are doing things differently; we are breaking away form the norm. everybody will tell you we don’t show a film more than once in three or four days and in a year; you don’t see the film more than eight times, and these are carefully selected films,

Mayunbgo (centre), Onigbigi (right), their startimes patners and other guests not everything goes. “Nollywood has a lot of good stuff but there is also a lot of thrash; so we separate the grain from the shaft and make sure we pick the best. We also wanted a channel dedicated solely to African movies, a channel that when you think African films you think

AMC. The same way you think of news and CNN, BBC or Aljazeera comes to mind. That is how we built the channel.” The channel will be operating on Startimes pay TV. However, when the fear of low patronage was raised, he simply said, “That’s where people get it wrong. Startimes boasts of over 1.5

millions subscribers in Nigeria alone. We are reaching out to five million homes in Africa on notable TV platforms such as StarTimes in Nigeria, Kenya, Tanzania, Uganda and Mozambique; TopTV in South Africa; Smart TV in Ghana; Zuku in Kenya, Tanzania and Uganda; and Continental Digital in Tanzania. Some channels are popular because people talk about them all the time not because they have more subscribers, that’s a fact.” For Mayungbo, “My love for arts, my upbringing; I was brought up to appreciate the arts. I was always taken to the theatre. I saw films at a very early age and eventually I remember Orun Mooru, a film by Moses Adejumo, popularly called Baba Sala. “But basically, this thing is about passion, it’s about loving what you do. If you don’t enjoy something, it becomes hardwork, but when you enjoy doing something, it its easy. You don’t see the challenges; all you want is to actualise your vision. Also, my partner, Lola Onigbogi, and I have a similar background and we like doing things well. Our IT background that teaches structure has also been useful. You have structured, methodical thinking. With computers it’s one of zero; there are no shades of grey.

THE GUARDIAN, Friday, August 16, 2013

36 ARTS

Showblast

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Actually, married life is not as scary as I thought

One-on-one with Tuface Idibia the soul of the music group that took the industry like a storm. By the time he went solo under Kennis Music, the Benue native shone like a million star and became the most successful contemporary music artiste in the country, with many awards to go with it. Today, he’s the role model to many up coming artistes, who see him as an achiever. For any Nigerian artiste, who has greatly achieved in the industry, building high walls around him is usually expected. But for Idibia, humility is the way to go; he’s always reachable and ready to give listening ears to younger artistes. “I just do my music for passion sake; I don’t really sing for money. Again, I’m humble because I see myself as a work in progress. I like to be as simple as I can be,” he said. With six kids from different women, many had expected Idibia’s career to go down, especially with media reports on his escapades with his multiple lovers. In fact, at a point, his romance became a useful material for comedians, who would tear the African Queen crooner into pieces on stage, in the name of cracking jokes. But Idibia kept his cool, reeling out hits after hits that made people love him even more. As for his kids, he showers them with fatherly care. “It’s not easy. Sometimes, it is painful, especially when you don’t get to see them as often as you would wish to because of work. Today I’m here, tomorrow, I’m there; sometimes for weeks, months, plus the fact that they have different mothers… I didn’t plan for it this way, but it happened and I have accepted it, no shaking. My plan was to have a wife and then have children. Something happened along the line, but I didn’t run away from it,” he said. By the time Idibia announced plans to wed his long time heartthrob Annie, the whole country went frenzy with the news, though many expected some drama from the other ladies. Their traditional marriage in Akwa Ibom was the talk of town, with dignitaries and top celebrities in attendance. However, the choice of Dubai for the white wedding was a big issue for his fans, who would have loved to be part of the groove. While Idibia was accused of sidelining his fans that contributed immensely to his success story in the industry, others were of the opinion that the father of six wanted a sizeable number of guests. “I think there is this spiritual connection to it, but I don’t want to disclose it now. Let’s just say that we love Dubai and we also discovered that it was a perfect venue for us. I don’t know about crowd control; we just wanted to have the best of the moment and make sure things go rightly. There is nothing more to it. It does not have to do with controlling the people or anything. The fact is that you can’t run away

Stories by Chuks Nwanne

from the people. Anywhere you go, you will meet people and these people have come to celebrate with us.” From his tone and body language, Tuface seems to be enjoying married life. “Actually, married life is not as scary as I thought; everything is cool. Yes, my life is not the same, but I’m still myself.” On the challenges of the Nigerian music industry, Idibia observed that the many divisions in the artistes body, is a major factor. “That’s as a result of the disorganised nature of the music industry in Nigeria; we’ve never had a solid music body. Yes, PMAN has always been there, but there’s always crisis and struggles. So, the musicians have not been to organise themselves to be able to attract government funding; who dem wan give the money? But in terms of quality music and what the artistes are putting up, we’ve gone far.” Though a card-carrying member of PMAN, Idibia seems to be far from the activities in the association. “I’m a registered member of PMAN, but I can’t really say what’s happening with the body. Over the years, PMAN has not really done anything for any artiste. But if all artistes decide to come together and put their eyes on the matter, I believe things would happen,” he said. On why the younger artistes are not keen on PMAN’s activities and membership, the awardwinning singer observed that, “many of these young artistes don’t even believe in PMAN; most

‘

ROM the days of Plantazhun Boiz, Innocent Findustry Idibia otherwise called Tuface in the music showed sparks of creativity; he was

...The buzz in town

people there don’t really know about music. If you have the real musicians running PMAN, you will see that all the artistes will come out. Right now, a lot of artistes are trying to blend with PMAN, but communication is breaking down. However, COSON has come up strong to help the industry; NCC is also making some contributions towards that direction. But PMAN, you can’t really say.” The appointment of Questionmark boss, Kelvin Luciano, as an interim leader of PMAN was aimed at finding a lasting peace in the musicians’ body, but Tuface feels it’s not yet uhuru. “There’s still problem; people are still threatening to go to court against him. I can’t really say what the problem is; I don’t even know how to explain it,” he quipped. Do you see yourself acting someday? “Right now, I’m not looking towards acting, but if I get a good script, I wont turn it down.” What’s your opinion about reality TV show? “Even if I wasn’t Tuface, I won’t have gone for any reality show. For me, it doesn’t really trans-

late to success.” It seems music has become an all comers affair, what’s your take on this? “Many young artistes look at music as something to do when you don’t have a job, forgetting that music is a serious business; it’s the same thing like working with the NNPC. For you to standout, you need to do something nobody has done before; that’s the only way. You need to look at the quality of your music; don’t follow the bandwagon.” As for artistes miming their songs, “Well, I can’t answer for people who don’t use live band, but performing live is the ultimate. However, it doesn’t necessarily mean that it’s going to be like that all the time; some artistes can’t really cope with live band.” So, at what point did you decide to go live? Also this week, PSquare inch T is now the turn of the MTN the chart, moving one place to “From day one, I’ve always wanted to have a Project Fame winner and Emi their way to number one spot, number 8, while DJ Xclusive band, but you need to be able to pay the session jumping one place to number 2 also moves up on spot to numNi Baller hit maker, Chidinma men and maintain the group. So, I had to wait till and offering a stiff challenge to ber 9. Ekile will to host the Official the right time to set up my band.” Wande Coal with Personally. Naija Top 10 chart. The Timaya makes his debut on During his wedding in Dubai, Tuface invited D’Banj moves up to number 4 songstress, who is the highest the Official Naija Top 10 this young saxophonist, TJ Sax to perform. The feeling with Don’t Tell and Burna Boy climber at number 3, will host week, entering the chart at is that both artistes may be up to something muthis week’s episode of the show jump two places to number 6. number 10 with Ekoloma alongside MTV VJ Ehis in the stu- 2Face’s Rainbow continues up Demba. Dropping out of sically. “He’s a young chap, heavily talented. Definitely, dio this week. the chart altogether this I’m going to work with him,” Tuface said. Wande Coal is week is Iyana with Sexy On why fast tempo beats are gaining popularshowing no signs of MAMA– a shock exit ity in Nigeria, Idibia noted that, “we have a lot of moving from the from last week’s numNigerians, who listen to a wide range of music in top of this week’s ber 2. MTV Base Official Every week, the Official their homes, but when it comes to concert, people want to dance. We have so many problems in Naija Top 10 powNaija Top 10 powered by Nigeria, so people don’t want to come to a party ered by Star Star Music is put toMusic. The Kick gether by an elite panel and listen to slow beats; that’s why everybody is on a fast pace. Again, once somebody comes up artiste enters his of judges comprising with a fast tempo and it works, every other persecond consecutive Nigerian broadcasters, son wants to do the same. However, if you do week at number music specialists and something that is not really fast but good, people one and fourth tastemakers, working will still appreciate you. The record labels are week in total (after with MTV Base to pick also a factor; sometimes you have good music, briefly being the winners and losers but no push,” he concluded. usurped by Iyanya). Chidimma in the week’s chart.

Chidimma takes center stage on MTV Base Official Naija Top 10 Chart

THE GUARDIAN, Friday, August 16, 2013

ARTS

SHOWBLAST Leonard, Oluchi axed from Project Fame Academy T was an evening of mixed Adora ushered in Ayoka to IAcademy feeling at the Project Fame open the stage with I Wish by over the weekend. Waje. Her smooth performWhile a group of contestants walked the dreaded road of elimination, the other set of contestants from the wild card contest had the opportunity of gaining entry into the Academy. However, the show started off with much anticipation and tension soaked atmosphere. The five wild card qualifiers opened the floor one after the other. While 19-year old Ngozi performed the classic, At Last, by Etta James, Anwunli and Henry did KC & Jojo’s All My Life. Shawn rendered Craig David’s I’m Walking Away, while Nancy rounded off the session, before paving way for the five contestants on probation to sing their way out of the danger list. Simon, Roland, Leonard, Oluchi and Ayoka took up the stage one after the other singing their hearts out. After all said and done, the moment of judgment came, with the contestants visibly soaked with tension, as the representative from Alexander Forbes stepped forward and handed over the name of the contestant saved by viewers. While Simon found favour in the sight of the viewers at home, the faculty saved Roland and Ayoka narrowly missed elimination by one vote with votes from fellow contestants. With much appreciation, Leonard and Oluchi bowed out of the competition leaving the fourteen contestants as they continue in the battle of songs. This time, it was Naija hits. Looking gorgeous in their outfits, the hosts Joseph and

ance got a warm commendation from both the judges and faculty. Simon practically brought the roof of the house down with a very energetic presentation of Timaya’s Malo Nogede, while Henry sang Banky W’s Yes/No. Liberian’s Margaret exuded so much confidence as she performed Chidinma’s Jolly. With her charming smile, Blessing opted for 2face Idibia’s Ihe N’eme, while Roland, whose growth in the competition has become very obvious, performed May D’s Ile Ijo. Mummy J described Jimoh’s look as ‘delicious’ after he did a flawless rendition of Sean Tizzle’s Sho Le. While David, the cool dude from Ghana got a standing ovation when he stepped into character and performed the upbeat hit Limpopo by KCee, Nini took the opposite direction singing passionately the very soulful single Olorun Mi by Tiwa Savage. She dedicated the performance to her late Dad and to everyone who has lost anyone in time past. Going back the upbeat route, Johnny performed Iyanya’s Jombolo, while Omolayo did Burna Boy’s Like To Party. Gbemisola elegantly stepped on stage and performed Omawunmi’s Warn Yourself, while Immaculate in her usual energetic character wowed everyone with Monica Ogah’s Tomorrow. Olawale rounded off the evening with Gobe by Davido. At the end, Henry, Johnny, Gbemisola, Blessing and Olawale were placed on probation.

Alake of Egbaland goes to the Coliseum

Dr. Olaiya (right) with Tuface Idibia, Kunle Afolayan, Tunde Kenlani and other crew members during the recording of Baby Mi Da

A dance for Olaiya on NAIJAZZ stage N line with its vision of redefining and Iposition restoring Nigerian Music to its glorious and promoting authentic, indigenous and identifiable Nigerian music for global relevance in a classic and contemporary style, Ayoola Shadare led NAIJAZZ Music has concluded plans to celebrate legendary Highlife musician, Dr. Victor Olaiya, whose career has spanned about 60 active years. Billed for 5pm on Sunday, August 18, at Stadium Hotel, 27 Iyun Street, off Western Avenue, Surulere, other artistes on parade include Bright Gain, Ebisan, Femi Leye and the eclipse band, Imole Afrika, Victor Ademofe and Others. The free for all show is supported by Metro 97.7FM, igrooveradio.com, Jazzhole and Inspiro productions. Speaking on the project, Shadare informed that, “we at NAIJAZZ are honoured to be given opportunity to celebrate a living legend. Victor Olaiya has been a recurring decimal on the music scene for so long and he is no doubt a reference point for authentic Nigerian music whenever and wherever it is mentioned alongside other music legends like Fela Kuti, Ebenezer Obey, Rex Lawson, King Sunny Ade, Osita Osadebe, Dr. Victor Uwaifo to mention a few.”

To Shadare, Olaiya’s music is evergreen, fresh and relevant now as it was when initially produced. “His music can be regarded as our own Jazz standard, which when properly archived is a reference points for generations to come. Dr. Olaiya is a Classic Legacy musician. His current collaboration Baby Mi Da remix with another current music icon Tuface Idibia is a case in point. We need to celebrate and honour this man while he is alive. This opportunity was facilitated by his son Bayode and is the beginning of a series of events NAIJAZZ has planned for other musical legends amongst us.” Born on December 31, 1930, Dr. Victor Olaiya, who plays in the highlife style, was extremely famous in Nigeria during the 1950s and early 1960s. Alhaji Alade Odunewu (Allah De) of Blessed memory described him as “The Evil Genius of Highlife.” The 20th child of a family of 24, his parents, Alfred Omolona Olaiya and Bathsheba Owolabi Motajo, came from Ijesha-Ishu in Ekiti State. Olaiya came from a very rich family. His father’s house called Olaiya is still standing today at Tinubu Square in Lagos and still owned by the Olaiya family. At an early age, he learned to play the Bombardon and the

French horn. After leaving school he moved to Lagos, where he passed the school certificate examination in 1951 and was accepted by Howard University, USA, to study Civil Engineering. Olaiya instead pursued a career as a musician. He played with the Sammy Akpabot Band, was leader and trumpeter for the Old Lagos City Orchestra and joined the Bobby Benson Jam Session Orchestra. In 1954 Olaiya formed his own band, the Cool Cats, playing popular highlife music. On the latter occasion, Olaiya shared the stage with the American jazz musician Louis Armstrong. During the Nigerian Civil War of 1967-70, Olaiya was given the rank of a lieutenant colonel (honorary) in the Nigerian army and his band played for the troops at various locations. The Cool Cats later travelled to the Congo to perform for United Nations troops. Olaiya renamed his band to the All Stars Band when they played the 1963 International Jazz Festival in Czechoslovakia. His musical style was influenced by James Brown, with horn parts harmonized in Brown’s style, as opposed to the mostly unison lines of Afrobeat. The music includes the swinging percussion of Tony Allen, but not the syncopated style

S part of the activities mark- GHR for the Alake will parade A ing the 70th birthday cele- glamour and glitz in huge doses bration of the Alake of as its’ customary of Coliseum.

Maltina Dance All 7 : Contestants emerge in Abuja

Egbaland, Oba Michael Adedotun Gbadebo, CFR, leading celebrity hangout, Niteshift Coliseum, will be hosting the respected monarch to a Grand House Reception. The event is billed for September 7, at the club arena in Opebi, Lagos. Speaking on the event, Guv’nor of Niteshift Coliseum KenCalebs Olumese, informed that after a long absence of GHR, the club considers it an honour having such prominent personality as Alake as guest on its return. “With citation, presentation of plaque, an interactive session laced with comedy and music by leading performers, the evening promises to be exciting and rewarding,” he said. Olumese, who has since retired from night clubbing business, also assured that the Alake of Egbaland

OT even the heavy downN pour of August 3, 2013 in Nigeria’s Federal Capital Terri-

The GHR is Coliseum’s flagship event and notable Nigerians and foreigners have been honoured during the events. They include: President Goodluck Jonathan; former Vice President Atiku Abubakar; Former Ghanaian President J.J Rawlings; former Lagos State governor, Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu; former Finance Minister Dr. Ngozi Okonjo Iweala; and Lagos State governor, Babatunde Raji Fashola. Oba Gbadebo, the Okukenu IV, will be the first monarch to be honoured by the club’s prestigious GHR.

tory, Abuja, could deter thousands of youths from storming the Nicon Luxury Hotel for the regional audition for Maltina Dance All (MDA). Turn after turn, the dancers showcased their dancing talents as the quest to select family representatives for the Maltina dance academy continues. At the end of the long hours of competition, nine finalists emerged from the zone and are qualified to compete in the future battle for the grand prize and the highly coveted title of Nigeria’s number one dancing family. The huge turnout and skill exhibited by contestants- also affirmed by the judges – showed that the Abuja participants have really come of age and improved in the MDA 7 selection session compared to previous auditions. Aptly dubbed The Evolution, the auditions did not disappoint as some of the contestants promised to bring the title “up North”. At the end of the gruelling and competitive dance sessions, the judges - Muyiwa Osinaike, Bimbo Obafunwa and Ukalina Opuwari – selected nine out of the hundreds of contestants that participated. The nine are:

Abiodun Ibrahim, Ivory Dosa, Patience Ebute John, Tije Manari, Longret Masamari, Uchendu David Segun, Ude Jane, Godwin Clement and Ezekiel Chika. They, alongside their respective families will however undergo comprehensive medical screening which is on-going and the medical fitness result will ultimately be the basis for the selection of their families - considering the highly physical and mental rigours of a competitive dance competition like the MDA. Muyiwa Osinaike, the lead judge at the audition, rated the overall performance of the Abuja contestants as above his expectations. “The Abuja contestants seem to have exceeded my expectations. Judging from last year’s audition, the Abuja contestants have made great improvement which is very good and I must commend them.” He further encouraged the dancers to always practice dance steps in all genres of dance - if they alongside their families must win the N6 million and a brand new car, which is the grand prize for the MDA 7. “To survive in the Maltina academy as dancers, you must work at being an all-rounder in dance which is what the

Maltina Dance All is all about.” Osinaike added. The selection of the family representatives was preceded by the age grade dance competition featuring dancers from 512, 13–19, 20-30 and 31 and above age grades. Eight-year-old Rita Oba won the first prize –Flat screen television set – in the 512 age category. Omorogie Blessing, Ezekiel Chika and Samuel Okoye also clinched the first prizes in the 13–19, 20-30 and 31 and above age grade categories. Other prizes won in-

Nine finalists from the Abuja audition

clude Home theatre systems and BlackBerry phones as the brand continues to share happiness. The show, according to Mrs Ngozi Nkwoji, Senior Brand Manager, Maltina is all about the emotions, excitement, fun and the unbreakable bond that ten families will showcase when they challenge themselves by learning and performing various dance styles from the 70’s, 80’s, 90’s and to the present in the famous Maltina Dance All academy.

THE GUARDIAN, Friday, August 16, 2013

38 ARTS

SHOWBLAST A grand ending for Star Music Trek 2013 AVING toured major cities H and towns in Nigeria, everyone expected the grand finale in

Tiwa Savage performing at the grand finale of Star Music Trek in Lagos

AMAA 2014… Organisers call for entries, set to honour Sembene, Efere Ozako HE Jury of the prestigious continental T motion picture reward system, Africa Movie Academy Awards (AMAA), rising from its Annual General Meeting, which took place at the Holiday Inn Express, Durban, South Africa, has approved the guidelines for the submission of films for the 2014 edition of the awards. The AGM, was attended by Mr. Ayuko Babu, Director of Pan-African Film Festival Los Angeles; Dr. Asantewa Olatunji, Co-Director of PAFF; Mr. Steve Ayorinde, Managing Director/Editor-in-Chief of National Mirror Newspaper; Mr. Shaibu Husseini, Journalist and Film Critic; Ms June Givanni, an international film curator; Mr. Keith Shiri, an international Film curator and programme advisor to the London Film Festival; Mr. Berni Goldblat, member of the jury of the International Francophone Film Festival of Namur (FIFF Namur) in Belgium and Professor Hyginus Ekwuazi, lecturer at

the department of Theatre Arts, University of Ibadan and also former Managing Director of Nigeria Film Corporation, Jos. AMAA Chief Executive Officer, Ms Peace Anyiam-Osigwe and Director of Administration, Mr. Tony Anih also attended the AGM. The Jury announced August 1, 2013 as the start date for submission of films that will be considered by the College of Screeners for AMAA 2014, which will also be the 10th anniversary of the pan-African event, while December 31st, 2013 will be last day for submission of entries. Speaking on some of the decisions taken by the Jurors, Ms. Givanni, who presided over the AGM, revealed that the Jury made some amendments of the award categories adding that the awards organization and the jury are poised to deliver a good tenth year anniversary event. “We made some changes on the award categories. We have introduced an award

that is named after former President Nelson Mandela called Madiba Africa Vision Awards, which will be given at the discretion of the Jury to any film that captures the essence and vision of the category. The category of Best Film by African Living Abroad has been cancelled. We want all filmmakers of the continent to compete and not do so on the basis of where they currently reside.’’ Also, Givanni announced the renaming of some categories of the award. She said: ‘’we also renamed two categories after two exceptional Africans who have contributed to the growth and development of the film industry. The Best Film in African Language will now be Sembene Ousmane Award for Best Film in African Language, while the Best Short Film Award category will now be called Efere Ozako Award for Best Short Film. AMAA wants to identify with these two great men’’.

MoviBuzz

By Chika Onwukwe

Passion kept me in the industry before Mirror Boy, says Emelonye ter means of livelihood, Emelonye enrolled for a law programme in England, while still tional Airport, Ikeja, Lagos, was keeping touch with his creative side. an insight into the life and ca“Legal profession has a transreer of a man, who has made Nigeria and Africa proud in the ferable skill and my status as a lawyer will always remain with motion picture industry globally. A native of Umumaisiaku in me and enhance my business. I Imo State, the producer/director practiced both professions together until 2006/2007 when I of Mirror Boy and Last Flight to decided not to be jack of all Abuja went down the memory trade masters of all anymore. I lane on his journey in the film told myself it was about time I business. concentrated on one and focus “Everything I’m, goes into everything I do; the more experi- my attention on what I love to ence I have, the more multifac- do most, which is filmmaking,” he recalled. eted my skills are. So, I bring a Though he struggled for acwhole lifetime of experience in other spheres into filmmaking.” Emelonye’s creative enterprise started at the University of Nigeria Nsukka (UNN), where he studied Theatre Arts. As soon as he completed his National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) programme, young Obi was least interested in white-collar jobs; he floated an independent production company that produced stage plays aimed at empowering university students. “We used to take the plays to universities without Theatre Arts departments. Later on, I left to seek greener pastures in England but discovered that I couldn’t make a living as a young dramatist starting from the lowest trunk.” In a bid to give his family a bet- Emelonye RECENT encounter with filmA maker Obi Emelonye, at the Murtala Mohammed Interna-

ceptance in the industry, Emelonye’s resolve to follow his first love, turned out to be the best decision he ever made as a young man, adding that passion kept him in the industry before his first major production, Mirror Boy. “I have made a good number of films that marketers released without giving me a dime, but I kept matching on because I have seen the potentiality in the industry that started from nothing to second on the global stage. Considering that we have over 150 million people, if you broaden that to African level, we have up to 1 billion people who are potential customers and they are hungry for what we do; the potency is huge.” He noted that, “an artist would rather paint forever and be broke. I take a lot of pleasure in my creative work and hopefully convert that into a business, and then we can truly say we are show business people not just show people.” With two movies, Mirror Boy and Last Flight To Abuja to his credit, the Imo State native is already gaining local and international recognition, with awards to show for it. He noted that a good storyline is the beginning of a successful film. “As a filmmaker, you need to look for issues that are topical, contemporary and provocative;

hence in dealing with those topics, you are touching human spirit. Always go for stories that are universal in the sense that whether you are Chinese, black, white, Asian or green that you would feel the same emotions; that is why project such as the Mirror Boy received so much attention.” His movie, Mirror Boy, chronicles the story of young boy, who was confronted with identity crises in the UK and is sent back home to Africa where he embarked on a magical journey that helped him discover his true identity. To Emelonye, Last Flight to Abuja was a story that needed to be told. “Between 2005 and 2006, there were lots of accidents involving planes in the Nigerian airspace. One day, I was speaking with a friend in a restaurant in London; he brought a newspaper from Nigeria where a particular crash was reported. I said to him that nobody has actually told the story of what happens behind the scenes in the aviation industry. You just come at the terminal building they check you in, you don’t even know where your bag goes, the next thing you come out on the other side and you have a bag.”

Lagos to be in a different class. Amidst promises from the organizers that the show would offer massive surprises to music lovers, thousands of fans trooped to the Hockey Pitch of the National Stadium Surulere, on Saturday, to see their favourite starts live on stage. On parade at the fun-filled gig are 2face Idibia, Tiwa Savage, Ice Prince, Wande Coal, Dr SID, Sound Sultan, Waje and Crystals. But the crowd got surprise performances from Seriki, Zaina, Konga, Mr. 2kay, Laff Up, Ajebutter and others, who set the tone for the night. Particularly, Don Jazzy’s sudden appearance on stage as beautiful diva, Tiwa Savage performed her hit song Eminado sent the crowd reeling as the taciturn mogul is rarely seen performing on stage. The popular producer and C.E.O of Mavin Records was the cynosure of all eyes on stage as he sang along with Tiwa Savage. He also graced the stage during Dr Sid’s set as the two performed a duet of the crowd favourite Lady Don Dada. Crystals, the 2012 Star Quest winners chose to sign out of the Trek with a captivating performance of some of their hit songs. The band, which has gained an enormous fan following since the Trek began, is obviously poised to conquer new vistas as shown by their exhilarating performance. Waje’s captivating voice will still be the talk of many Treks to come. The songstress, who debuted on the Trek with an amazing outing in Surulere, made sure fans enjoyed every minute of her 45-minute performance with her live band. One of the major surprises promised was Sound Sultan, who has just released his 6th studio album. The organisers brought him in to the wild delight of fans that provided a suitable chorus to his every song especially his hugely popular classic, Jagbajantis. Tiwa Savage is fast becoming a performer’s performer, with her deft dance moves and expert choreography. Also, the talented singer has perfected the art of anticipation and makes every

performance stage worthy of numerous encores. Ms Savage and Don Jazzy’s surprise duet on Eminado electrified the crowd and left many marveling at how committed the producer is to his artist’s act. Oyoyo singer J Martins also performed at the evnt. The talented producer, who is something of a polyglot, was obviously thrilled to be performing again and fans reciprocated the enthusiasm and made sure to show their massive approval. Also, Wande Coal, The Black Diamond, continued to weave his magic, first stepping in as yet another surprise act at the Trek and also completely captivating his die-hard fans through out his 45-minute performance, no mean feat for any artiste before a highly expectant audience. No doubt, it’s the year of Ice Prince. Back to back concerts, numerous awards and of course the never-ending adoration of his teeming fans. Ice Prince, who had only hours earlier arrived the country from Amsterdam from a concert in which he performed, took time to thank his fans profusely for supporting him strongly right from the early days of his career. It will be recalled that the hit maker recently won Best International Act (Africa) at the BET awards, beating industry heavy weight 2face and four other African acts to win the coveted award. His mentor M.I, who discovered him, was the last surprise performance of the night- storming the stage to perform in a most fitting set. 2face, like fine wine, keeps getting better with age and fans who waited patiently from late noon of the previous day to early morning of the next to watch their favourite performer were certainly not disappointed. Together with his live band, 2face dished out an exciting medley of his greatest hits that kept the excited crowd on its feet. Idibia engaged with fans, having a musical conversation that lasted until the early hours of the morning.

Johnnie Walker comes in Gold ATER today, Johnnie Walker Lunveiled Gold Label Reserve will be in Nigeria today at sparkling launch holding at the One Eleven, Victoria Island, Lagos. The ceremony, which promises to be an evening of all that glitters and shines, as the golden soiree invites Nigeria to mark this momentous occasion with an unforgettable celebration. Included in the cosmopolitan crowd will be Nollywood actors, musicians, artistes and socialites, who have all received a gilded invitation to experience the premier taste of Johnnie Walker Gold Label Reserve in Nigeria. Beckoned to enter by the night’s Golden Girls, and handed a flute of an indulgent Gold Label cocktail, guests will linger under the spell of gold’s alluring power, serenaded by a gold grand piano. “This event will prove that gold is more than just a colour – it is an attitude, a state of mind, a sense of arrival. We are excited to welcome Nigeria to experience this exceptional whiskey, and celebrate with us into a golden dawn,”

General Manager, Diageo Brands Nigeria, Felix Enwemadu said. Celebrity DJs such as DJ Exclusive are billed to set the mood from the poolside booth, where guests will be treated to a night of unforgettable surprises. Crafted to mark life’s legendary celebrations, Johnnie Walker Gold Label Reserve’s Nigerian launch will strive for new heights with an iconic dash of glamour. Under the glow of shimmering lights, the seductive taste of Gold Label’s smooth, complex blend will be savoured into the early hours, as gold dust bursts from the sky. “Johnnie Walker Gold Label Reserve appeals to a stylish, discerning set that is also confident, progressive and innovative and we believe that Nigeria is ready for an international spirit that is both bold and mould-breaking. It is the perfect drink - one that transforms special moments into legendary celebrations,” says Tim Etherington-Judge, Brand Ambassador for Diageo Reserve brands.

THE GUARDIAN, Friday, August 16, 2013

ARTS 39

Literature ‘Ebedi writers resort gives you space to really write’ Stories by Anote Ajeluorou HIOMA IWUNzE-IBIAM, Bilqisu Abubakar C and Iquo Diana-Abasi Eke are the three female trios currently at residence at Nigeria’s fast growing resort for writers, with its idyllic ambience sandwiched in the hilly plains of Iseyin, Oyo State. They are three women, all married, who have taken their writing craft seriously and are being listened to by those who should know. Iwunze-Ibiam is from Enugu and her writing has gone places with the awards she has won. Abubakar is from Kaduna and her stories and her personal life is causing a transformation amongst female folks in her Islamic, conservative society, as they speak to the core of the challenges women face in such setting. Eke, a largely performance poet and folklorist, has her first collection of poems, Symphony of Becoming, among the 11 works in the running for the biggest literary prize in Africa, The Nigeria Prize for Literature worth US$100,000. In spite of these individual achievements, these female writers are not resting on their oars; they keep pushing the boundaries of literary creativity knowing that there is more in them yet to be brought out. For these three writers, just like others who had enjoyed the quiet ambience of Ebedi International Writers Residency to complete ongoing works, the Dr. Wale Okediran-led initiative is a perfect platform that should be supported for further cultural expression in the country. For Iwunze-Ibiam, Ebedi is ideal place for any writer constrained by his or her environment to write. According to her, “It’s been really nice considering the space and time I have to concentrate on what I’m working on. I actually don’t think I would have had this opportunity if I were in my normal environment. So, it’s been easier for me to focus and concentrate here at Ebedi. Again, I’ve really learnt a lot from my fellow residents. We critique our

writings, and this is really important in literature. “At the moment, Ebedi is one person’s dream, and I feel corporate organisations, and even government can actually come in to support this dream, and it will take the dream to a bigger level and add more value to the writers. The whole idea is really beautiful and I want to commend Okediran for this.” Eke also “thinks Ebedi Writers Residency is a laudable idea. It is beautiful. The ambience of Iseyin itself is lovely. For someone like me who lives in Lagos, the idea is just so great because I have the luxury of time here. I don’t have to think about anything. I really want to commend the founder, Dr. Wale Okediran for the good work he is doing. However, I feel if there is more funding, then more things can be added to what is already on ground”. Bilqisu also agrees that “It’s a great idea, but it will be beautiful if a literary professional can come in at intervals to look at what writers are doing and discuss the areas residents can focus their works. This will really be great and it will help the writers a lot. At the moment, the writers do this themselves”. INDEED, they are female writers who are conscious of their environment and the challenges women face in today’s Nigeria and actually writing about them. For Abubakar, who comes from a culturally conservative background, women issues form the core of her writing, as she noted, “I must say that is the angle I really concentrate on in my writings. I talk about women who are from the Islamic background. The religion kind of constrains us from doing certain things, which I have been able to expose in my novels. I focus on issues like polygamy, divorce, marriage, early marriage and many others”.

Eke; Iwunze-Ibiam and Abubakar But like many emerging women in the North’s socially constraining landscape, Abubakar has been able to break free, as she is currently pursuing her Ph.D programme, saying, “It’s because of the education I acquired. I’m actually working towards my Ph.D now. However, it has not been easy. It really took a lot of hard work, and along the way some people accused me of deviating from the normal path a woman should thread. But because of the education I acquired, I have been able to see so many things, and that is why I’m exposing some of these things in my works. “So, yes! Women are now becoming more enlightened and education is playing a significant role in this. We are becoming aware of certain things, and school has played a greater role in this. I was 21 years when I got married, and to some, I got married too late. I think I was fairly old to have got married at 21. Ideally, getting married at 16 would have been fair enough”. On the raging issue of child marriage, Abubakar’s background reared up to colour her thinking. According to her, “It depends on what you call child marriage. If a child is matured at the age of nine and can handle the responsibilities in the home, then nothing stops her from getting married”.

Three Diaspora, eight local writers vie for the $100,000 literature prize FTER three months of waiting, 11 A writers (poets) are now in the race for The Nigeria Prize for

the prize. Out of these, two female poets make the list. They are Iquo Eke Literature worth US$100,000 out of (Symphony of Becoming) and the 201 writers that entered for the Promise Ogochukwu (Wild prestigious literary competition. Letters). Also, a familiar name in Out of the 11 poets, eight local writ- this year’s contest is Remi Raji, a ers will vie for the prize against professor of English and current three foreign-based writers in what Dean, Faculty of Arts, University of is easily a contest of literary wills. Ibadan. Incidentally, he was took The eight Nigeria-based writers part in the poetry contest in 2009, include G’ebinyo Egbewo (Marsh obviously a year of poetic anguish Boy and Other Poems), Iquo Eke when the prize was not awarded (Symphony of Becoming), Obari for lack of quality entry, according Gomba (Length of Eyes), Iade to the jury then. Raji’s work was Tpadeola (The Sahara Testaments) disqualified because it fell outside and Launko Okinbo – pen name for the year of competition. Femi Osofisan (Seven Steps up the 2009 was a bitter year for poets Stairways). Others are Amu Nnadi on the local scene who entered for (Through the Window of a the contest; it had not be opened Sandcastle), Promise Ogochukwu up for Nigerian writers residing (Wild Letters) and Remi Raji (Sea of outside the country. Indeed, that My Mind). Afam Akeh (Letter Home year’s disappointment threw up and Biafran Nights), Amatoritsero in vigour arguments for the incluEde (Globetrotter and Hitler’s sion of writers residing outside Children) and Obi Nwakanma the country. In 2013, three poets, (Birthcry) make up the three who had enjoyed a lot of presence Diaspora poets in the running for on the local before going abroad,

are in the race. Will they also win this year? The past two editions – drama and fiction – had favoured Diaspora writers, who have clinched the coveted prize since it was opened to Nigerians residing all over the world. Drama prize went to U.S.based dramatist, Esiaba Irobi for

Prof. Egudu

Cemetery Road in 2011 and last year when Belgium-based Chika Unigwe won with On Black Sisters Street. At the announcement was the panel of judges for this year’s poetry category including its chair, Prof. Romanus Egudu (Godfrey Okoye University, Enugu), Prof. Molara Ogundipe (University of Port Harcourt) and Dr. Andrew Aba (Benue State University, Makurdi). In announcing the shortlist on Monday in Lagos, General Manager, External Affairs of sponsor company, Liquified Natural Gas (LNG) company’s, Dr. Ekudo Eresia-Eke, said the panel of judges arrived at the shortlist after “three months of intensive scrutiny. He further said LNG believed in responsible corporate citizenship and that the prize was “one of the company’s numerous contributions towards helping to build a better Nigeria”.

But her two colleagues strongly disagreed, with Eke saying emphatically, “Marriage entails a lot of responsibilities and it necessitates different levels of maturity like physical, emotional, psychological. For a fact that a female is physically ready to get married does not mean she is ready psychologically or emotionally to handle the decisions that come in a marriage. Unfortunately, girls in Northern Nigeria don’t really have a choice when their families say it is time for them to be married. Once a woman is married off at nine or ten, when she has her daughters, she will also not see anything wrong in them marrying at such an early age”. Iwunze-Ibiam noted, “This is really complicated, but I think women should be given a chance to grow and develop emotionally and physically before being given out in marriage. When a girl is married off at an early age, they are simply going into a commitment they don’t understand. However, for me, I won’t give my child out at nine. She is even still a baby to me”. And, going away from child marriage, Iwunze-Ibiam summed up the writing styles of her two colleagues at Ebedi, when she said, “Their styles are unique and interesting, especially in the angles and themes they tackle. Iquo (Eke) focuses more on urban literature (issues), while Bilqisu (Abubakar) focus on African communal literature (issues)”.

Surgeons on my heart By Kayode Steve Adaramoye

Ripping my heart open in dark dawn surgery, earth palpitation on eruptive scale, gushing out blood from my heart. Apron of death worn by the surgeons. Air suffocating the earth in scarlet stings, sacrilegious fuming sacrifices to holy gods. Tell truth to stay on holy mountain, less he is stained by the hand of dark surgeons operating my heart at dark dawn. But my victory is eternal, my life is above the shadow of death!

THE gUArDIAN, Friday, August 16, 2013

40 ArTS

ArtHouse Chimamanda Adichie reads as Literary Evening ends today

HIMAMANDA Adichie, Nigeria’s celebrated international writer and Creative C Director of Farafina Trust, will lead a team of international literary writers to the 2013 Literary Evening today, as this year’s Creative Writers Workshop comes to a close. venue is Lagos Oriental Hotel. Other international writers expected are Kenyan writer Binyavanga Wainaina, Norwegian politician and former party leader of red Electoral Alliance, Aslak Sira Myhre, Nigerian writer, medical doctor and author of Fine Boys, Eghosa Imasuen.

Poetry, best of art in Ibadan

HIS month’s edition of Artmosphere, tagged Fresh Styles is an exploration of the T works of relatively new voices and those who have deliberately chosen new styles to communicate to their audience. It will also feature a discourse on the challenges facing the creative industry in Nigeria. guests in focus are reward Nsirim, Hyginus Ekwuazi, Wemimo Ayo David and Su’eddie vershima Agema. It will hold on Saturday, August 17, at NuStreams Conference Centre, KM 110 Abeokuta road, Alalubosa grA Extension, Ibadan. Time is 3 - 6pm.

Nigeria is Negotiable for presentation

FrICAN Centre for media and Information Literacy will host the public to the A presentation of the book titled, Nigeria is Negotiable written by Chido Onumah. The event comes up on August 20, at National Press Centre, radio House, Herbert Macauly Way, Area 10 garki Abuja.

Book entrepreneurship development for launch

RAMEWORK and Guidelines for Entrepreneurship Development as a Sustainable Flaunched Empowerment Generation Strategy in Nigeria, written by Taiwo Akinnawo will be August 22, at Ogun/Ondo Hall, Airport Hotel, Obafemi Awolowo Way, Ikeja.

Obey, Chimezie, Onwenu for Night with the Masters

Guests at the launch of African Movie Channel.. last weekend

Heritage Bank to develop funding model for entertainment industry By Chijioke Nelson ErITAgE Bank has unfolded plans to work with stakeholders in the entertainment industry, a move aimed at developing a funding model that would ease financing difficulty in the sector. The Managing Director/Chief Executive, Ifie Sekibo, gave this assurance while responding to enquiries about the bank’s plan for the entertainment industry, at an interactive session. The bank, sequel to its successful deployment of the world acclaimed Finnacle 10 banking software, disclosed a strong intention to crystallise a robust branchless banking platform that is highly technologydriven to promote business efficiency across many frontiers. According to the bank, the finan-

vEr the Top Entertainment will present Night with the Masters featuring top H O acts like Ebenezer Obey, Bright Chimezie, Onyeka Onwenu, Shina Peters, Femi Kuti, Wasiu Ayinde in like performance. It holds September 13. Time is 6pm at the Eko Hotel and Suites, victoria Island, Lagos. Compiled by: Florence Utor

I’m ready to take my place, Ezi Emela By Tony Nwanne HOUgH, Ezi Emela is not popularly T known in the music scene, her kind of music is such that has continued to draw critical reviews. The AfroPop/Afrobeats princess, who recently released a new single titled, Feeling Good, into the market started her musical career late last year. She says her great passion for music, made her to come back to home claim her place as an AfroPop artist. gearing up to thrill the music scene with her kind of song, “Feeling Good” is a resounding anthem which sees Emela in especially glorious form as she sings about how blessed she is feeling a n d h o w nothing can bring h e r down.

Bringing her sultry and superb vocals and songwriting skills to the forefront to combine with P2J’s impeccable musical backdrop, Emela is here to stay. According to the songstress, “I see the Nigerian music industry as a challenging one, but I am ready to take the bull by the horn. What makes me different is the fact that I doesn’t not conform with things that are not natural to me, and trying not to please anybody.” Having been inspired by the likes of Lauryn Hill, Ciara and rihana, her previous singles Catch My Heart featuring Mista Silva and Secret Lover that featured E.M.E’s Skales, she would definitely makes it three for three on hit records with this P2J-produced summer dance anthem titled, Feeling Good. Emela, 22, recently took over BBC 1Xtra to host Xtra Talent for the entire month of June and has also just come off a UKwide performance tour with gigs in Manchester, Birmingham, Liverpoool and London among other cities. “Feeling Good” will definitely have my fans hooked up, dancing and singing along and people should look out for this one to make their favourites, club dance floors and house parties this summer and for the rest of 2013. On Child Marriage, stated that Nigerian government for event talking about that not to talk of discussing it. “The Nigeria government should desist.

cial institution would establish a partnership and sustainability path that would bring to bear its ideals on all engagements and as a timeless wealth partner, help customers build, transfer and preserve their wealth. Speaking on the sidelines of the launch of the bank’s Micro Small and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) Clinic, Sekibo said that one of the objectives of the bank is to develop a document on how to fund the entertainment industry, noting, “But we need to understand the industry first. “We have quite a number of people in the entertainment industry. The last time we met with stakeholders in Nollywood, we wanted to find out how we can bank them? Do we deal with each person or take the industry as a whole. This is because we are

very willing to provide funding and help the industry. “Most times people think that banks can just jump in, but our approach is different. We need to first know how and when you tell us how, then you can leave the financial engineering for us”. Perhaps, the move could be a deliberate attempt to open up banking relationship with the industry that had been assessed as ‘hard hit’ with financing for the development of various initiatives. Heritage Bank, which assumed the license of the former Societe generale Bank and commenced operations in March, pledged to deliver innovative, technology-driven, cost-competitive and efficient banking services.

LITCAF… An encyclopedia on Nigeria’s true identity By Kenechukwu Ezeonyejiaku vEr the years, Africans writers have been struggling to tell and retell their own stories away from how others (Europeans) who know little or nothing about them previously told it to suite their fancy. Africa’s lack of a documented history created room for the western world to write African history the way they wanted. This has made their culture and people to be perceived by the entire world through a limited window of knowledge and stereotype. LITCAF or ‘Literary Café’ is therefore a new concept set up by a team of three young, enterprising Nigerians to provide a well-rounded story of the Nigerian, African people, culture, tradition, places, government, business and organisations with the sole aim of “truly defining our story by using the words of the very people living in our society.” While speaking at a press conference to announce the

project at the organisation’s office at E-Centre, Sabo, Yaba, Lagos, Chief Executive Officer of the project, Mr. Apoola Tope, said the project would provide an indigenous encyclopedia which would be all about Nigerians telling their stories by themselves and the materials subsequently put in a data bank for accessibility by local and global audience. According to him, “It is an opportunity for Nigerians to define their world and people will be the voice behind every information found in LITCAF Encyclopedia. We intend to put the written materials into a data bank and eventually make it into the very first Nigeria indigenous encyclopedia. We want to say this is what our states, our people, our cultures and our traditions are. We are tired of reading about ourselves from the outside world. “The medium will be technology-driven. The encyclopedia will be an intelligent system of software, mobile applications and devices designed to ensure effective and reliable delivery of information to all stakeholders. “The LITCAF Encyclopedia will be accessible via web

South West monarchs float Yoruba Eminent, Excellent Awards By Gbenga Akinfenwa HE quest to foster unity and development T among the Yoruba ethnic nationality has again been re-echoed with the birth of the eminent and excellent awards, the brainchild of some highly placed first class monarchs from the Yoruba states of the South West. It is a highly credible, non-political or tribal event, devoid of political maneuver, but basically meant to appreciate the Yoruba people who have done well in different areas of endeavour and to encourage others. Alaafin of Oyo, Oba Olayiwola Adeyemi III is the Chairman, Board of Principals, Orangun of Ila, Alake of Egbaland, Awujale of Akile Ijebu, Oba of Lagos, Ewi of Ado, and Osemawe of Ondo are members, while Otunba Biodun Ajiboye, a media practitioner is secretary. In a letter sent to the eminent monarchs and leaders of Yoruba ethnic nationalities such as

the Ijebus, Egbas, Igbominas, Oyo, Lagos, the Ekitis and the Ondos, signed by Ajiboye, Oba Adeyemi advanced reasons of unity and development as the underlining factors for the awards. “Fostering the unity of our race has become important today more than ever before. It is now a matter of utmost urgency; if we put ourselves together, recognising ourselves in this manner, we would achieve the much desired unity and development of our race, the Yorubas,” he said. The role of the board of principal is to primarily make the awards realisable, support its execution and acceptability, participate in its process and internal administration. Secretary to the board told The Guardian that the monarchs received the letters individually with warmth and appreciation, particularly the Orangun of Ila, Oba Wahab Bibilari, who in his response, thanked the creative ingenuity of

the Alaafin for his brilliance, noting that such has never happened in Yoruba land. He added that the award was timely at this time when the Yorubas were in dire need of unity and togetherness to take its rightful place in Nigeria. Also, Osemawe of Ondo, Oba Keladejo in his show of support for the institution said, “I enjoin all Yoruba sons and daughters to without delay embrace this initiative that is capable of bringing peace unity and development”. Among the categories outlined for the awards are Excellence and Eminence in Education, Public Administration, Nation Building, Corporate governance, vanguard of Democracy, Legal, Health, International Diplomacy, Music, and Theatre, among others. The awards will hold on Friday, August 30, 2013 in Oyo town.

Alaafin of Oyo, Oba Adeyemi

THE GUARDIAN, Friday, August 16, 2013

Customer Experience By Pratap D Singh very brand believes that its customer service E is excellent. In reality, however, customer service across brands is mediocre. The experi-

8 Strategies to Improve Customer Service tomer service and customers. Integrate with marketing: Customers are an important marketing resource. They are the most credible brand ambassadors, their word of mouth recommendation is far more effective than all other marketing activities put together. Given its importance to marketing, organizations should make marketing solely responsible for customer care and if necessary create a separate customer marketing function to protect, nurture, and leverage its core assets (customers) far more productively. Integrating it with core marketing will also remove the stigma associated with service.

ence is generally inconvenient, unpleasant, unsatisfactory, sometimes humiliating, and definitely expensive. Good customer service is an integral part of business. It affects important brand and business objectives like customer satisfaction, loyalty, retention, repeat purchase, up selling and usage revenue. In light of these business implications, there is continuous pressure on brands to improve customers' perceptions of their service. Improving customer service should not be that difficult. It can happen if organizations reconsider certain business Shed the profit center approach: Many organizastrategies. In my opinion, the following eight tions try to make a profit through customer servstrategies are very important to improve cusice. In a profit center approach, revenue-generattomer service: ing activities like sales of maintenance contracts, Incorporate in business planning: The quanspares, and expensive call charges become more tum and nature of service requirements are important than the aforementioned business dependent on the activities of many other func- objectives. Selling at low margins is normally the tions. Organizations should incorporate cusreason for the profit center approach. tomers' service requirements into all aspects of Attempting to increase profit through service business activities like product design, procure- would anyway not work as customers expect ment, production, handling, pricing, commu- service charges also to be low if the product purnication, people, and culture. This would help chase price was low. Expensive service charges organizations to prepare better for service even- would also force customers to choose cheaper tualities and at the same time make customer third party service providers. Brand and busiservice the responsibility of the entire organiza- ness objectives should be the only purpose of tion. the customer service function. The collective Change attitude to service: Despite being a criti- value of these business measures, in near term cal business activity, customer service function and long term, would always be higher than the does not command the same respect that many profits made from normal service activities. A other functions do. Many perceive it to be dirty, profit center or cost center approach, disregardmenial, and unpleasant. Service center appear- ing business objectives, would be detrimental to the brand. ances and resources are always far inferior, especially to that sales and marketing. If an Adopt retention pricing: Product pricing should organization treats the service function in this include the cost of acquisition and the cost of manner, customers are likely to get the same retention including the service cost. Discounting treatment from the service function. the service and retention cost to make the sale Organization's attitude to service is a reflection price attractive would only force the brand to of its attitude to customers. Management has recover the lost margin through subsequent to go far beyond providing mere lip service if transactions. It is wrong to believe that custhe rest of the organization has to respect customers do not deserve good service just because

INFOTECH4DEXECUTIVES By Muhammad Qasim Shinwari nformation security engineering is a very new field of study and it deals with providing security in the world of Information Technology. It deals with the analysis of vulnerability, the risk, threat and protecting the integrity of the next-functional logic (software) of a computer system and data contained in or exchanged in a communication with a user. This protection is achieved through organizational and technological measures aimed at ensuring that only authorized users have access to the database of the organization. This is mainly achieved by following a process of authentication, which verifies the credentials of the individuals before providing them with data access. Information security has become a major concern in most industries, especially those which are heavily dependent on Information technology. The IT industries have over the years, started hiring Information Security engineers to help them with securing their database and the transfer of information between centers. These professionals work in large multinational companies and help them in improving their security parameters. Database security depends on several factors that interfere between the users and the system, such as robustness of the software and the basic application etc. The information security engineers utilize many tools to provide maximum data security.

Main techniques of defense used by the information security engineers Antivirus: an anti-virus is a program which protects computers against attacks by malicious software known as viruses. A good antivirus

the sale price was low. Every customer, irrespective of the price that he pays, expects good service. The product price should therefore, have a sufficient margin to meet those expectations. Manage expectations: Customers have explicit and implicit service expectations. Explicit expectations are formed basis the claims and promises made by the brand at the time of purchase. The brand has complete control over explicit expectations. Implicit expectations formed basis the customers' perception of brand image, stature, reputation and the price premium they pay for a brand are far more difficult to gauge and manage. Most often organizations measure only the explicit commitments. Failure to identify and measure implicit expectations is a big reason for the gap between its understanding of the quality of service rendered and customers' perception of the service received. Customers' perception of service will improve only when both these expectations met.

Focus on customers' convenience; not yours: Most service facilities and procedures are not customer friendly. Service centers are far and few, the locations are remote, phone lines are always busy, the service center timings always conflict with customers' work hours, and the waiting time at the service center is invariably long. Further, asking such aggrieved customers to fill lengthy forms, answer questions (often interrogatory and structured to make the customer feel that he or she is responsible for the problem), wait inordinately, listen to policies and rules is inconsiderate and humiliating. These inconveniences dissuade customers from choosing company service.

Recognize the role reversal: Brands make an emotional pitch to sell but provide service by the rulebook. Customers though, buy rationally but react emotionally to product and service failures. Recognizing this role reversal will help brands to appreciate the customer's pain better and adopt an appropriate service response. Brands should remember that they are not dealing with failed products but with people's emotions caused by failed products. An emotional approach to service, similar to the sales pitch, might work better than a rational response.

A Brief Introduction to Information Security Engineering

should be constantly updated to have continuously running scan functions in real time. The security experts in an organization will regularly use the anti-virus to scan the hard disks, CDs, DVDs and floppy disks, to detect the presence of viruses, worms, malwares etc. To prevent the spread of virus, the antivirus will also check all the files that are received or sent via emails to verify that they are safe. Anti-Spyware: it is a software which is very effective in the removal of "spy files", or spyware that can steal information about the user's online activities and send them to an organization that will use them for profit. An anti-spyware application can go a long way in protecting the intellectual property of an organization. Firewall: a firewall protects the computer network in an organization against outside hacking attacks and blocks any programs on the computers attempting to access the Internet without the user's permission. A firewall installed and well configured system provides compile access control by monitoring all traffic that passes through it. Digital Signature Encryption: information security engineers protect sensitive documents and data from unauthorized access by using specific security mechanisms such as encryption, digital signature, and the use of digital certificates and cryptographic algorithms to identify the certifying authority i.e. a site, a person or software. Backup: security experts create backup of the company database as it helps them to recover lost or damaged files. In any organization, creating backup of the database is very important because if the

organization loses important data, it might even have to face lawsuits from the clients. It will also find it difficult to conduct day to day operations. Honeypot: a honeypot is a system or piece of hardware or software used to "trap" or "bait" for protection against attacks by hackers. Usually consists of a computer or a site that seems to be part of the network and contain valuable information, but in reality is quite isolated and has no critical or sensitive content. It could also be a file, a record, or an unused IP address. Causes of Data Loss - The probable causes of loss of data in computer systems may be multiple, but are generally grouped into two events: Adverse events and Accidental events. Adverse Events Between the two events mentioned above, the unwanted ones are mostly unexpected, although it is prudent to expect anything. One should also expect the socalled attacks by unauthorized users to steal valuable data. Adverse events are often caused

by unauthorized users who would try to access different computers and systems without taking permissions from any required authorities. Hacking attacks - The hacking attacks are controlled by the hackers through the internet network, by using special software, sometimes created by them; they sneak in by hacking the system, achieving full control of the machine, to manage resources and data without the proper permissions. They often steal vital information and then use it for their own

benefit, causing harm to the company which has been hacked. Access to systems by unauthorized users - This type of attack is substantially similar to the previous one, but has a different shape. This attack involves unauthorized use of systems and data, but unlike a hacker attack this time the system itself is used for the attack and not the network. Effects - -The hacking and unauthorized usage of company information can cause a lot of loss to the company. If vital data is lost, the cus-

tomers can even sue the company for large amount of money and can even take legal action. The company may also find it difficult to meet its professional responsibilities. Accidental events - The accidents do not refer to an attack by a third party, but they refer to events caused accidentally by the employees of the organization, like installation of incompatible hardware parts, unexpected failures, etc. All these events however, compromise system security.

THE GUARDIAN, August 16, 2013

42 | EXECUTIVEBRIEF

Success Strategies By Bryan Chau ell, after reading this W book for a second time I realized that there was one chapter in particular that clearly highlighted what the secret was. The reason that most people fail to recognize it is because they're looking for something more profound and lucrative. So what is the secret to success that's hidden within the chapters of Think and Grow Rich? Let's start by examining Chapter 2, especially since Napoleon Hill mentioned that his own son identified the secret after reading this particular chapter. Chapter 2 is about Desire: The Turning Point of All Achievement. In its simplest form, Napoleon Hill shared his secret to success by stating the following: The method, by which DESIRE for riches can be transmuted into its financial equivalent, consists of six definite, practical steps... 1. Fix in your mind the exact amount of money you desire. It is not sufficient merely to say "I want plenty of money." Be definite as to the amount. (There is a psychological reason for definiteness which will be described in a subsequent chapter.) 2. Determine exactly what you intend to give in return for the money you desire. (There is no such reality as "something for nothing.) 3. Establish a definite date

Executives Health By Dante Parsonsa here are parts of our body T that we take for granted until they cause us pain. The neck is an area of the body that you can't help but move when you go about even the smallest tasks, or even when you are sitting or sleeping. When you have neck pain it can change the way you live and it can make even the simplest tasks very painful. Many times the neck pain will subside overtime, but if you have pain that is persisting and it is making you miserable, you may want to consider getting treatment so that you can live more comfortably.

Think And Grow Rich Secret - Exposed!

when you intend to possess the money you desire. 4. Create a definite plan for carrying out your desire, and begin at once, whether you are ready or not, to put this plan into action. 5. Write out a clear, concise statement of the amount of money you intend to acquire, name the time limit for its acquisition, state what you intend to give in return for the money, and describe clearly the plan through which you intend to accumulate it. 6. Read your written statement aloud, twice daily, once just before retiring at night, and once after arising in the morning. AS YOU READ-SEE AND FEEL AND BELIEVE YOURSELF ALREADY IN POSSESSION OF THE MONEY. The items listed above by Napoleon Hill are quite selfexplanatory, hence why I've decided to not go through each item individually. Instead, I would rather spend some time elaborating on item # 6, especially since he emphasized this last statement with uppercase letters. In essence, success begins with behavior and attitude. Not only must people see it and feel it but also truly believe in the attainment of their goals. In addition, people must also realize that there's nothing wrong, or unholy, about becoming rich and that

achieving wealth and abundance is possible for anyone with the right mindset.

doing this repeatedly, success will surely follow and you'll eventually reach your

destination. When you do, you'll recognize that you've found the secret to success.

By repeating and refining this process, you can achieve anything you want in life!!

Please note that the reason he emphasized the last statement in uppercase letters is because of Neuro-linguistic Programming (NLP). In modern NLP terms, there are three representational systems: visual, auditory, and kinesthetic. Through NLP, people could impress their goals into their subconscious mind in an effort to call forth the necessary PLAN's and ACTION's that'll propel you to achieve your dreams in life. Noticed that I've emphasized both words above because I truly believe that most people fail to realize their goals in life because of their lack of planning and action. Instead of being proactive and taking the necessary steps to achieving their goals, these individuals only dream of what they could become all day long without putting in the effort. Remember, the difference between who you are and who you want to be... is what you do! With this in mind, the importance of staying in motion and taking action daily towards achieving your goals must not be understated. Regardless if it's small or big steps, just make sure that you're taking steps daily to realizing your dreams. If you commit to

Neck Pain Treatment and Depression and Chronic Back Pain - Symptoms,

When you get a neck massage, you may find that the pain is not associated with the neck like you thought, in fact many times it is linked to tension in the shoulders, or vice versa. When the masseuse is able to determine what the root cause is, they will be able to implement their training to ensure that the problem is approached head on. When they are able to clearly identify the issue, you'll find that it is something that plagues If you have neck pain your ini- you for a very short period of tial response may be to take time, instead of dealing with some over the counter medit for days on end. ications to relieve the pain. While this will often help you In some instances, you will get more comfortable so that need to visit the masseuse for you can get through the day, if a massage more than once. If you want to do away with the you have ongoing problems, pain that has been persisting you may find that it is someonce and for all, you may want thing that you will need to to go above and beyond takhave dealt with in a series of ing over the counter medica- appointments. When you tions. Many people have have treated the issue, you found that massage has made may find that you are much a great difference in their more comfortable and that neck pain and within a couple the simplest of tasks are no sessions. longer uncomfortable. You may find that you were avoidIf you are concerned about the ing actions that you would price of getting a massage, have enjoyed in the past, and you should know that it is not suddenly life is simply much nearly as expensive as you more enjoyable than it has would think it is. The great been since you started suffernews is that massage is quite ing with neck pain. Going to affordable, and when you con- the masseuse will pay off not sider it an investment in your just physically, but mentally overall health and comfort, it as well. is worth the investment big or small. When you visit a Depression is by far the most masseuse for your neck, you'll common emotion associated find that they are able to get with chronic back pain. The to the root of the problem, not type of depression that often just treat the symptoms, like accompanies chronic pain is you would be doing if you referred to as major deprescontinue to take the over the sion or clinical depression. counter medications.

This type of depression goes beyond what would be considered normal sadness or feeling “down for a few days”. The symptoms of a major depression occur daily for at least two weeks and include at least 5 of the following (DSM-IV, 1994): A mood that is depressed, sad, hopeless, low, or irritable, which can include periodic crying spells Sleep problems of either too much (hypersomnia) or too little (hyposomnia) sleep Poor appetite or significant weight loss or increased appetite or weight gain Feeling agitated, restless or sluggish (low energy or fatigue) Decreased sex drive Loss of interest or pleasure in usual activities Feeling of worthlessness and/or guilt Problems with concentration or memory Thoughts of death, suicide, or wishing to be dead Chronic pain and depression are two of the most common health problems that family physicians, spine specialists and mental health professionals encounter, yet relatively few studies have investigated the relationship between these conditions in the general population (Currie and Wang, 2004). Major depression is thought to be up to four times greater in people with chronic back pain than in the general population (Sullivan, Reesor, Mikail & Fisher, 1992). Studies on depression in chronic low back pain patients show that

the prevalence is even higher. Depression is common for those with chronic back pain Depression is more commonly seen in patients with chronic back pain problems than in patients with pain that is of an acute, shortterm nature. How does depression develop in these cases? This can be understood by looking at the host of symptoms often experienced by the person with chronic back pain or other spine-related pain. The pain often makes it difficult to sleep, leading to fatigue and irritability during the day. Then, during the day, because patients with back pain have difficulty with most movement they often move slowly and carefully, spending most of their time at home away from others. This leads to social isolation and a lack of enjoyable activities. Due to the inability to work, there may also be financial difficulties that begin to impact the entire family. Beyond the pain itself, there may be gastrointestinal distress caused by anti-inflammatory medication and a general feeling of mental dullness from the pain medications. The pain is distracting, leading to memory and concentration difficulties. Sexual activity is

often the last thing on the person’s mind and this causes more stress in the patient’s relationships. Understandably, these symptoms accompanying chronic back pain or neck pain may lead to feelings of despair, hopelessness and other symptoms of a major depression or clinical depression. A recent study by Strunin and Boden (2004) investigat-

ed the family consequences of chronic back pain. Patients reported a wide range of limitations on family and social roles including: physical limitation that hampered patients’ ability to do household chores, take care of the children, and engage in leisure activities with their spouses. Spouses and children often took over family responsibilities once carried out by the individual with back pain.

THE GUARDIAN, Friday, August 16, 2013

AutoWheels 2014 hottest cars in focus By Taiwo Hassan ITH the debilitating effects of the economic crisis firmly affecting many countries around the globe, this may not be substantiated in the world’s auto sector as new-car sales are firing on all cylinders. The 2014 model year is serving up an engaging array of new and fully redesigned models, ranging from family sedans and plush luxury cars to hot sport coupes and utilitarian pickup trucks. As the New Year comes around, these are some of the hottest automobiles in the making that are expected to light up the year. Chevrolet Corvette Stingray Arguably the most significant new-car introduction for 2014 from auto experts’ perspective as it brings a hallowed name back to an iconic American sports car. Coming in coupe and convertible versions, the Corvette Stingray is completely redesigned with an all-new chassis and mechanicals residing beneath seductively sleek bodywork. A technologically advanced 6.2-liter V8 engine channels an estimated 450 horsepower and 450 pound-feet of torque through the rear wheels that enables a launch from 0 to 60 mph in a sizzling 3.8 seconds. Lighter in weight, though more structurally rigid than before, an ideal 50/50 frontto-rear weight ratio, reengineered steering and suspension systems and an array of sophisticated chassis-control hardware promise tenacious handling. A new Drive Mode Selector allows the driver to tune 12 separate performance attributes according to five different driving situations, including one for use on wet roads and another that enables the engine to run on only four cylinders to garner maximum fuel economy. Addressing one of the past model’s nagging weaknesses, the Stingray’s two-seat interior features a new driver-focused dashboard and extensive use of high-quality materials. Mercedes-Benz S-Class It’s become tough to define “luxury” in the new-car business when even mainstream models offer amenities like heated/ventilated seats and a heated steering wheel. Mercedes solves the quandary with a decidedly outrageous approach in the elegantly redesigned version of its flagship S Class sedan. Featuring bold and elegant new styling, it comes powered in the S550 version by a 455-horsepower twin-turbo V8 or a 5.5-liter twin-turbo 577-horsepower V8 in the higher-performance S63 AMG 4MATIC model. The 2014 S-Class redefines state-of-the-art with an extreme list of high-tech chassis control options including a low-speed

autonomous driving mode, steering that automatically keeps the car centered between lane markers on the highway and the ability to anticipate road imperfections in its path and adjust the suspension accordingly to maintain a butter-smooth ride. Over-the-top-shelf options include rear seats that simulate a hot stone massage, heated armrests and an ionizing and perfuming feature for the climate control system. Jaguar F-Type Coming wrapped in comely curvaceous styling, this new two-seat rear-drive convertible is positioned in size and price below Jaguar’s XK sports car line. It packs a lively 3.0-liter supercharged V6 engine that generates either 340 or 380 horsepower, depending on the version. A 5.0-liter 495-horsepower supercharged V8 is also available and should be the ride of choice among well-heeled enthusiasts; it’s estimated to enable the F-Type to hit the 60 mph mark in just over four seconds. All engines come mated to a seven-speed automatic transmission that includes a manual gear-select mode with steering wheel-mounted paddle shifters. Its lightweight, yet-rigid aluminum structure, rear-drive configuration and sophisticated suspension promise sporty handling abilities in the British sports car tradition. A closedroof coupe version will follow within a year. Mercedes Benz CLA-Class The Mercedes-Benz CLA-Class is the German automaker’s first-ever front-drive compact luxury sedan. The vehicle borrows its so-called “four-door coupe” styling from the larger CLS-Class, and is likewise distinguished by a swoopy roofline. Mercedes says it will be among the most-aerodynamic car designs among production cars, with a coefficient of drag at just 0.23. A 208-horsepower turbocharged fourcylinder engine comes with the base CLA250, while the high-performance CLA45 AMG variant packs a specially tweaked hand-built 355horsepower 2.0-liter turbo four. The only available transmission will be a seven-speed dual-clutch automated manual, with Mercedes’ 4Matic all-wheel-drive optional on the CLA250 and standard with the CLA45 AMG. Myriad available high-tech amenities include Mercedes’ Parktronic system with Advance Parking Assist that enables autonomous parking in both parallel and perpendicular parking spaces. Cadillac ELR The midsize Cadillac ELR coupe is essentially a luxuryminded two-door version of the Chevrolet Volt extended range electric car. The ELR features distinctive styling that borrows cues

2014 new cars from other Cadillac models, with a posh high-tech-looking interior and assorted amenities, though its electric powertrain and engineering largely carries over from the Volt. It’s powered by an electric motor and a plug-in chargeable battery pack, but once the battery runs low (it should run in full electric mode for about 35 miles on a charge), a small gasoline engine engages to run a gen-

2014 Chevrolet camaro

2014 BMW 4 Series Convertible

erator that, in turn, powers the motor. Those with a modest commute may rarely have to visit a gas station. If the Volt is any indication, the ELR should be quick off the line and deliver reasonably sporty ride and handling attributes, though back seat space and cargo room look to be tight. Infiniti Q50 Infiniti begins reinventing its entire line of vehicles with the handsome new Q50 sedan, which takes over from

the previous G37. More of a deep cosmetic makeover than a full redesign, the car’s 3.7-liter 328 horsepower V6 engine carries over and the line adds a fuel-saving 3.5liter V6 hybrid version; allwheel-drive is available with either powertrain. New leading-edge options include an Active Lane Control system that automatically makes minor steering adjustments to help keep the Q50 centered between highway lane markers

(along with active cruise control and automatic forward braking, this brings it a step closer to being a car that drives itself). A new i-Key system allows up to four motorists to customise a wide range of operating parameters, automatically recognizing the user and adjusting everything from seat, mirror, and climate control settings to radio presets and stored navigation destinations. Chevrolet Silverado / GMC Sierra Fully redesigned for 2014, General Motors’ full-size pickup trucks come with myriad structural and engineering revisions to enhance their already decent ride and handling characteristics. The trucks’ trio of “EcoTec3” engines include a new 4.3liter V6 with 285 horsepower, a revised 5.3-liter V8 with a beefier 355 horsepower and a 6.2-liter V8 with 420 horses for heavier-duty use; all incorporate direct fuel injection for improved performance and selective cylinder shutdown for better fuel economy. Both the Silverado and Sierra feature roomy and nicely styled interiors with newly added features including the optional MyLink infotainment system that allows users to place calls, operate the navigation system and control other functions via natural language voice. Toyota Corolla The popular Toyota Corolla compact sedan gets its most radical reinvention in a decade for 2014 to help the car shed its stodgy image. Growing a bit in most dimensions, it’s more athletic looking overall, with aggressive styling elements at the front and rear ends of the vehicle.

THE GUARDIAN, Friday, August 16, 2013

44 AUTOWHEELS

Coscharis Motors, Rolls-Royce sign pact on dealership Stories by Taiwo Hassan OSCHARIS Motors Limited said on Wednesday that it had secured the sole dealership as the distributor of RollsRoyce brand of cars in the country. Speaking at the finalised pact in Lagos, the President/Chief Executive Officer, Coscharis Group, Dr. Cosmas Maduka said the move to secure the Rolls Royce franchise was historic to the group, saying that Coscharis Motors is now the authorised dealer to sell Rolls-Royce brand of cars in the country. According to him, the pact was another milestone attained by the company since its commenced automobiles trading in the country. He said that signing a high premium brand such as Rolls-Royce which celebrated its 10 years of production at the home of Rolls-Royce in Goodwood, England early this year, was an honour. Maduka revealed that the choice of Rolls-Royce was borne out of the company’s continued stance in identifying with world-class brands in keeping with the company’s vision to build an institution that would be timeless in its relevance. He said, a well-defined concept was initiated before

hand, in which the market was thoroughly analysed, adding that the company was determined to leverage upon the opportunities. The Coscharis boss however, pledged that his management staff would work round the clock to ensure the sale growth of the brand in the country. In his remarks, the Group Managing Director, Coscharis Group, Josiah Samuel, expressed optimism that with the support of the brand; manufacturers, the company would grow the clientele base of the RollsRoyce brand in the country while assuring its customers of full after-sales support service for the brand. Responding, the Managing Director, Rolls-Royce Motor Company Limited, Geoff Briscoe said, in ten years, the home of Rolls-Royce had established a reputation as the benchmark of craftsmanship excellence, pointing out that the cars would celebrate the first of many decades in this extraordinary British manufacturing success story. He stated that a fastidious commitment to perfection underlined Rolls-Royce’s position at the pinnacle of super-luxury manufacturing and was glad that Coscharis Motors had joined the brand family while assuring it of its total support in growing the

Rolls-Royce Phantom market in the country. Briscoe revealed that RollsRoyce Motor Cars was glad to offer Rolls-Royce cars to discerning customers. According to him, the pur-

chase of a Rolls-Royce car was a unique and personalised process, adding that the company had tailored its service to every customer’s individual needs.

The Rolls-Royce brand from the stable of BMW is described as a unique bespoke masterpiece and superior to its competition and by getting the franchise

ABC Transport acquires three new coaches to boost fleet operations BC Transport Plc said A that it had deployed about three new coaches for its sleeper service to boost its expansion fleet operations in the country. The new coaches, accord-

ing to the company, were configured to suit the peculiar needs of late travels. The company noted that each coach was equipped with fully-reclinabale seats, comfortable footrests, toilet

facility, spacious seating arrangement, security surveillance cameras on-board, GPRS tracking technology and speed limiters. The company also said that it had deployed 12 new mini

Ssangyong Motor’s global sales exceed targets in July HE Chief Executive T Officer, Ssangyong Motor, Lee Yoo-il has said the company sold about 12,536 vehicles globally last month. According to him, this showed that 5,768 vehicles were sold in domestic sales, while 6,768 in exports, including CKD kits. Yoo-il said that the company’s monthly global sales exceeded 12,000 units for four months in a row backed by the launch of the Korando Turismo. he added that it sales in July also increased by 28.5 per cent from a year earlier while cumulative sales rose by 23.5 per cent compared to the same period last year. Accxording to him, the sales growth was driven by a domestic sales upswing, which has continued for the seventh straight month during July. Yoo-il said: “Ssangyong’s monthly global sales have exceeded 12,000 units for four consecutive months this year, backed by increased domestic sales for seven months in a row.” The Korando series including Korando Turismo have led this sales momentum. Domestic sales in month under review jumped to the highest level in 2013 with an increase of 38.5 per cent from a year earlier, exceeding 5,000 units every month since April. Ssangyong’s exports grew by 21 per cent year-on-year, thanks to increased ship-

of Rolls Royce. With this, Coscharis Motors now has acquired the franchise for all the brands on the stable of BMW Group, namely BMW, MINI and RollsRoyce. It is on record that RollsRoyce Motor Cars, aptly the leading manufacturer of super luxury cars in the world announced recently the creation of more than 100 new jobs. This follows record sales over the last three years, significant expansion of the manufacturing plant and the launch of the company’s latest model, Wraith. Half year sales figures announced recently show that Rolls-Royce was on track for another record year in 2013. An elaborate plan to officially launch the Rolls-Royce brand in the country would be announced soon by Coscharis Motors.

ments of the Korando C gasoline model as well as increased sales in the Russian and Chilean markets. Compared to June, exports decreased by 6.6 per cent temporarily due to reduced working days at the plant as a result of the summer vacation schedule and priority being given towards meeting domestic demand. The company expects that its exports will increase again once the number of working days is back to the normal level.

buses to service its shuttle service operations in Port Harcourt, Enugu, Calabar, Uyo, Warri, Awka and Owerri. Some of the new buses will service the newly introduced ABC shuttle service from Warri and Benin to Lagos. Meanwhile, the company has announced that it will hold its 20th yearly general meeting on 23rd August 2013 at Ariana Hall, Concorde Hotel by 11a.m. Presenting its audited financial statements for the year ended December 31st, 2012 to the public, the management declared that the company recorded growth in turnover of 11.18 per cent and gross profit of 31.26 per cent over the amounts recorded in 2011. Profit Before Tax and Profit after Tax also recorded a growth of 444.64 per cent and 413.67 per cent respectively over amounts recorded in 2011.

Korando Turismo

Mimiko flags-off FUTA’s auto fair, workshop OVERNOR Olusegun G Mimiko of Ondo State has pledged to declare open, the Federal University of Technology, (FUTA), Akure, auto fair and workshop at the University campus in Akure. The fair which is the first of its kind by any university in the country is expected to hold on Tuesday, August 20, and will be attended by automobile manufacturing company representatives in Nigeria, distributors, spare parts dealers, oil and lubricant dealers, auto accessories as well as motorcycle dealers. According to a statement from the office of the ViceChancellor, Professor Adebiyi Daramola, the target groups for the fair include, people who want to change their fleet, all students in various engineering and related departments in FUTA and

other universities in neighbouring states in mechanical, material and metallurgical, industrial designs, computer and electrical and electronic engineering departments. Others include state governors in the South West and South South regions, Commissioners and Director of Works and Transport in Local Government parastatals, corporations and international organisations. According to the ViceChancellor, the objective of the fair is to expose participants to the importance and advantages of buying new vehicles, dangers of purchasing used vehicles, initiate modalities of purchasing brand new vehicles without financial stress. Others are, to create awareness on the Mechanism of

brand new vehicles, promote, develop and sustain market for all brand new cars in the region through diverse private and public car users, eradicate unproductive patronage initiate by individual automobile marketers. The Vice-Chancellor also explained that the fair will enhance face to face experiential interaction with customers and stakeholders in the industry as well as interactive education and sampling of product benefits. He also called for supports and contributions from stakeholders in the auto industry through partnership and collaboration with institution in the following area: Establishment of automobile service centre branded with name of the sponsors, Endowment of chairs in automobile in the name of

sponsor, Bus for field Trips for the students branded in the name of the sponsors, car for mobilisation branded in the name of the sponsor.

Gov. Mimiko

The vice-chancellor promised that names of the sponsors will be on the roll of honours of the institution.

THE GUARDIAN, Friday, August 16, 2013

BusinessTravel Challenges, prospects of new airlines in Nigeria

Newly acquired Chanchangi’s B737–500

Stories by Wole Shadare HORTLY after the crash of Dana Air, coupled Ssector with the crisis of confidence that befell the with the temporary seizure of operations by First Nation, the epileptic nature of Chanchangi Airlines and a few others, many sang a dirge for the airline industry. During the period, few airlines like Arik, Aero, IRS and Landover held sway, leading to shortage of seats. Frustration set in for travellers as choices were limited and airfares skyrocketed. It was a period demand far outweighed supply. In a capitalist economy, it was difficult to blame anyone for choosing to pay almost half of what it would take to fly to London for a trip to Abuja, Kano, PortHarcourt or Kaduna. It was equally a period, less than a year ago when the airlines battled to provide quality services with few number of aircraft at their disposal. To say they suffered was an understatement. Although, they smiled to the bank, but the huge burden of customer satisfaction with no fault of theirs painted them in a very bad light. But all these are becoming a thing of the past with the influx of start up airlines that have been given their all important Air Operator Certificate (AOC), while some others are at the verge of formalising processes that would make them be handed their AOCs. First Nation is making a comeback to the sec-

tor it left a year ago to shop for a more modern airplanes; Aero and Arik are still very formidable with huge route networks; IRS and Overland are equally pulling their strings, just as MedView is consolidating its position on the domestic route network, showing a promise of becoming the airline of choice in a few year’s time. So painful is the death of Virgin Nigeria (later Air Nigeria). The airline was reputed to have the best management then and offered quality services both on domestic and international routes. It brought hope to Nigeria, but event, which were not too clear to many led to its demise. Chanchangi Airlines practically rose from the dead with the acquisition of more aircraft, although on a dry lease arrangement. The airline in addition with defunct Bellview and ADC Airlines reigned supreme and dominated the sector many years ago until government policy under Mrs. Kemafor Chikwe barred the use of BAC1-11, B727 and other geriatric airplanes which were majorly in the fleet of most of the airlines then. It was a real setback for them, but ultimately upped the ante as Arik later changed the entire landscape with brand new, straight from the factory aircraft. The Guardian learnt that two start up airlines, Discovery Air and Azman are set to debut on domestic routes soon as they have secured office spaces at the Murtala Muhammed

Nigeria boasts much of what an airline would want; a population of 160 million people, a flourishing professional class and impassable roads. Airport 2 (MMA2). Their presence would further add to the number of airlines in operation and boost services. However, many expressed cautious optimisms over huge number of airlines that are expected to be in operation before the end of the year. They reasoned that many carriers before now had come with so much fanfare only for them to disappear when travellers were warming up to enjoy their services. An aviation analyst, who gave his name simply as Fadimu, explained that many African airlines, for years had been crippled with issues such as blatant mismanagement, corruption, inefficient staff, poor aircraft, poor maintenance of facilities, poor security and limited infrastructure. These issues according to him led to a great need and demand for re-structuring and reorganisation within the African airline industry. Notable banks and lenders who had lend

financial support to the airline operators are similarly in quandary over the unimpressive returns on their investments particularly as the industry witnessed many troubles occasioned by high cost of fuel, high aviation charges, astronomical navigational charges, among other sundry charges. The passenger growth increase margin highlights the huge client base within Nigeria’s airline industry, for which demands and services need improvement. Some analysts also attributed the problems of the airlines to owner manager syndrome, apart from funding issues, adding that until many of the owners leave the core operations of airlines to technocrats, the airlines will not survive. Nigeria boasts much of what an airline would want; a population of 160 million people, a flourishing professional class and impassable roads. But profits seem to have eluded Nigeria’s own airlines – or funds have been diverted to prop up other businesses. The meadows outside Nigeria’s airports are littered with rusted hollow jetliners left behind by failed airlines. All over Africa, aviation is booming. In Kenya, Ghana, Ethiopia, even tiny Togo, carriers have sprung up to shuttle business commuters in and out of Africa’s fast-growing economies. In Nigeria, though, airline executives say banks are reluctant to extend long-term loans that keep new carriers aloft.

Chanchangi Airlines acquires aircraft HANCHANGI Airlines, one of the foreC most domestic airlines in the country over the weekend took delivery of its additional aircraft. The aircraft, a Boeing 737-500 series, which arrived over the weekend, will boost the airlines domestic operations in the country. A statement by spokesman for the carrier, Mr. Oludele Balogun, the aircraft arrived Nnamdi Azikwe International Airport

Abuja, over the weekend Saturday from South Africa. The aircraft, dry-leased from a South African Company partnering with Chanchangi Airlines has increased the airline’s fleet. With registration number 5N-BQZ the aircraft is expected to boost additional routes of Chanchangi Airlines Operations. Such routes, according Balogun, include, Lagos, Abuja, Yola, Port Harcourt, Owerri

and Uyo. Only recently, the Lagos station manager, Ahmed Babadiya, in an interview with journalists explained that the airline was repositioning for better domestic operations. According to Babadiya, the airline was faced with challenges, which it was able to overcome, adding that its safety records since it began operation almost two decades was second to none. He disclosed that the airline was re-brand-

ing to meet its customer’s demands. Babadiya said the airline would also take delivery of some aircraft to further boost its operations. Chanchangi Airlines used to be the toast of aviation industry in the country with about 11 aircraft but after the crash of EAS BAC 1 11 aircraft in Kano, the government banned the use of BAC 1 11 in the country, which affected the airline that had the aircraft type and B727 in its fleet.

46 | BUSINESSTRAVEL

THE GUARDIAN, Friday, August 16, 2013

Airlines move to offer seamless travel services By Chika Goodluck-Ogazi LOBALLy, airlines are facing the challenge of providing adequate flight services to meet the increasing passengers’ demand in air travel, which the airlines plans to achieve through integrating of their networks with others. Consequently, they are forced into seeking commercial partnerships with other airlines to run a network that would meet the needs of the intense flow of passengers, as consumers want wide scope and depth networks. Meanwhile, the increasing demand for air transport has been expected to provide drive for the global in-flight entertainment and connectivity market as airlines try to differentiate and gain a competitive advantage. In Nigeria, the expectation

for seamless air travel from one part of the country to another may still not be achievable as Nigerian domestic carriers are currently short of sufficient number of aircraft seats to lift passengers. Passengers as a result are faced with long hours of delays, abrupt flight cancellations and inability to get flight tickets as at when due or needed. The situation; however, has led to untold hardship for passengers at various airport terminals, especially Lagos, Abuja, Port Harcourt and Kano. But, the local airlines recently, are acquiring new fleet into their flight operations to boost are travel in the country However, several airline operators have postponed in-flight entertainment and

connectivity project installations due to budget constraints. Under these circumstances, airlines are prioritising expenditure on systems that will decrease aircraft weight as well as operating and fuel costs while increasing ancillary revenues. Hardware and content providers will have opportunities to design solutions that can track and monitor passenger spending on board, while contributing to ancillary airline revenues through online advertisements. Network scope is usually relevant for business travellers who require flights service to a wide range of destinations, while Network depth, with a choice of convenient timings for travel, is also important for these passengers. In the past years, the quality

of interline travel has been improved through new types of airline cooperation, from code shares to joint ventures. Therefore, meeting the demands of consumers for network scope and depth can involve airlines in differing degrees of cooperation. Also, the flow of passengers travelling from one small city to another is usually far smaller than flows between large cities. In most cases, there are not enough origindestination or local passenger flow to justify a regular service. The only way airlines can make the economics work to justify serving these smaller city-pairs are to increase the flow of passengers. Passengers travelling between two large cities will usually find non-stop services, often provided by airlines operating a point-to-point

operating model. On these markets, with a large and regular flow of passengers, airlines can use an aircraft large enough to produce the low unit costs necessary to charge a competitive fare. Many of the airlines that have entered post-deregulation markets in the United States and Europe operate such point-to-point model to serve existing markets between large cities, or stimulate the required density of traffic between the cities through low fares. However, majority of passengers want to travel between smaller cities and the combinations of citypairs or potential markets amounts to tens of thousands. There is little possibility that one airline could offer such service using its own aircraft. There are just too few local

passengers to justify the service. The evidence suggests that economies of scale in aircraft fleet size can be fully reached once a fleet reaches around 50 aircraft. So the optimal size of an airline’s fleet will be reached far below the numbers required to connect all the cities between which customers wish to fly. Therefore, airlines serving customers wanting to travel between smaller cities will necessarily need to enter into commercial partnerships with other airlines to extend the reach of their networks. There is another key reason for airline cooperation, which is driven by the economics of transporting passengers, and that is the importance of economies from the density of passenger flows.

Captain Edward Boyo, MD, Landover Co. Ltd. (left), Mr. James Mueller, VP Atlantic & Pacific Sales, United, Ms. Andrea Peralta, MD, Airport Operations, Atlantic, United and Captain Fola Akinkuotu, DG, NCAA during the first flight of United’s Boeing 787 Dreamliner at the Murtala Muhammed International Airport, Lagos…recently.

United Airlines deploys Dreamliner on Lagos-Houston route By Chika Goodluck-Ogazi NITED Airlines has U launched its Boeing 787 Dreamliner to Nigeria, with its first appearance at the Murtala Muhammed International Airport in Lagos on Tuesday with the arrival of flight UA142 from the airline’s Houston hub, George Bush Intercontinental Airport.

The state-of-the-art aircraft will now operate United’s five-times-weekly to Lagos-Houston nonstop service. The Vice President, Atlantic and Pacific Sales, United Airlines, James Mueller said: “Customers will notice a real difference on board the 787 Dreamliner. “It is the world’s most advanced and

efficient passenger aircraft, with a range of features that improve the overall flying experience. “The introduction of the 787 means that United now offers customers in Nigeria an unbeatable combination for transAtlantic travel – the most comfortable aircraft, industry-leading products and services, nonstop

access to one of the United States’ leading business centres and connections from our Houston hub to cities across the Americas,” he added. According to the airline, United’s 787 Dreamliner is configured with 36 flatbed seats in United BusinessFirst and 183 seats in United Economy, including 70 Economy Plus seats

with added legroom and increased personal space. It noted that customers would experience greater comfort with improved lighting, bigger windows and larger overhead bins, lower cabin altitude and enhanced ventilation systems, among other passenger-friendly features. Passengers would also benefit from on-demand

entertainment at every seat and lighting that replicates a full day or night on longhaul flights such as Lagos to Houston. The aircraft’s use of lightweight composites, together with its modern engines and improved aerodynamic design, allow it to fly farther, faster and more efficiently than similar-sized conventional aircraft.

As the best ground handler in Nigeria, it has the best airport pick-up and drop-off service in major airports, with choice cars to meet client’s choice, style and budget. They also offer inter-city and intra-city car hire services for both individuals

and corporate organisations in Lagos, Abuja, Warri, Port Harcourt, Uyo and Calabar. While receiving the award in Abuja the Chairman of Remlords who also is the National president of The National Association of Tour Operators (NATOP) said: “We

are very happy to be recognised for what we have been doing. The success of our project and its acceptance gives us joy. Experience Cross River is an online travel portal giving direct access to bookings and payments to hotels, airlines, tour packages and car hire service.

Remlords wins travellers’ award For doing well as the best ground-handling firm, Remlords has bagged the Travellers’ Award. At the Abuja Bantaba event Remlords Tours received the award for the best ground handler in Nigeria. The award is in recognition the pace setting effort of it’s

domestic tourism business while most operators concentrated on outbound tours. In the past one year Remlord, a GSA for Arik Air in Calabar, Cross Rivers State launched an online portal for domestic tourism with Cross River

State as a pivot. As destination managers, Remlords markets Cross River State endowed with rich cultural heritage, a land clean and green. The major focus is the Obudu Mountain Resort, which is the winner of the Naija 7 Wonders.

BUSINESSTRAVEL | 47

THE GUARDIAN, Friday, August 16, 2013

MedView gets nod to start foreign operations By Wole Shadare ARELY one year after it B made its impressions felt on the domestic routes, Med-View Airline has now spread its wings beyond the shores of the country with its plans to start international operations. The carrier has scaled the hurdles that allow it to operate international destinations following approval from the Ministry of Aviation and the Nigeria Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA). The cheery news is that the carrier would start flight operations between Nigeria

and Singapore, Dubai and Jeddah on the international scene while it is allowed to operate on the regional scene between Nigeria Accra and Libreville. While Med-View has settled all the necessary logistics including the payment of application for air carrier’s permit, approvals have come from the government of the various countries for the Nigerian airline to start operations into their countries. In preparations for the successful commencement of flights to the new designations, the airline anytime from now will take delivery

of two new generation aircraft that will be used to service the international and regional routes. Speaking to The Guardian recently, the Chief Executive Officer of Med-View, Alhaji Bankole Muneer, said under the approval, the airline will operate between KanoJeddah-Abuja-Jedah. The airline may also start the Enugu/Singapore and Lagos/Singapore routes after the Umrah and hajj operations. Reacting to how the airline intends to cope with the insecurity in Kano, which

has greatly affected the Malam Aminu Kano Airport, Muneer said what is happening in Kano should not in anyway affect operations. He however expressed the belief that airlines should avoid a situation where they all concentrate on Lagos and Abuja routes starving other routes. The two aircraft being expected at the end of this month are; Boeing 767-300 and Boeing 737-800, which he described as fuel efficient and cost effective, coupled with having more durability. According to Muneer, the airline’s decision to bring in

new generation aircraft falls in line with the airline’s resolve to give its passengers more value for their money as witnessed in the affordable fares and quality in flight services it provides to customers. On the average currently, the airline carries between

30,000 and 40,000 passengers monthly. The airline which has become favourite particularly to Muslim pilgrims in view of its flawless performance during the yearly airlift of pilgrims to Mecca, Saudi Arabia, has further carve a niche for itself with its regime of fares which are more affordable.

While Med-View has settled all the necessary logistics including the payment of application for air carrier’s permit, approvals have come from the government of the various countries for the Nigerian airline to start operations into their countries.

Arik Air’s business class cabin

Virgin Atlantic launches new onboard tracking device By Chika Goodluck-Ogazi IRGIN Atlantic Cargo has V become the first British airline to accept the new Sentry FlightSafe tracking device on its aircraft, which enable customers during moving shipments to monitor the location and environmental conditions of their cargo on the ground and in the air in real-time. According to the Director of Cargo, Virgin Atlantic, John Lloyd: “Customers can already track their cargo shipments with us via our website but we are always looking to provide other choices that increase the benefits we offer. “Our high service levels and reliability means freight forwarders and courier companies regularly choose Virgin Atlantic to deliver high value and sensitive cargo so enabling them to use Sentry FlightSafe means they can now give

their own customers realtime information on the status of their shipment throughout its entire journey with us,” he added. With its real-time capabilities at all points in the supply-chain, the airline noted that the Sentry FlightSafe would provide stakeholders with critical data that enables them to intervene to reduce or eliminate loss related to the integrity of the cargo. A highly-advanced wireless tracking device, it said the Sentry FlightSafe include multiple sensors such as temperature, humidity, pressure, shock, location and vibration with an additional feature, FlightSafe. This feature enables the device to use multiple modes of sensing and proprietary logic to automatically turn off its wireless transmitting radios to ensure safe and regulatory compliant operation

throughout the duration of flight. The device is the only cellular-based, GPS sensing device with a patented feature for automatic radio off mode that requires no human intervention to operate it. Virgin Atlantic Cargo

approved Sentry FlightSafe for use onboard its aircraft following rigorous testing by the airline’s Engineering and Cargo Operations teams. The device, according to the airline has been developed by OnAsset Intelligence, a

market leader in machineto-machine airborne asset tracking solutions. The President and Chief Executive Officer of OnAsset, Adam Crossno, said: “Approval from Virgin Atlantic Airways delivers an important increase in

Sentry-enabled air cargo capacity serving the global market from Europe. “We are extremely pleased to receive approval and even more so, to announce that customers can ship cargo with FlightSafe on many new routes”, he added.

Camair-Co to begin flight to Abidjan via Lagos AMAIR-CO, a national C airline of Cameroun is set to expand its West Africa reach with a scheduled new flight to Abidjan, Cote d’Ivoire via Lagos Nigeria beginning September 23, this year. The Sales Manager OF Camair-Co International, Job Ikose Mbenda, disclosed at the airline’s Nigeria travel agencies forum in Lagos, recently. According to Mbenda, the decision by Camair-Co to start the Abidjan route via

Lagos was based on the huge interest and confidence the airline has vested in Nigeria’s commercial city coupled with the yearnings of travellers. He added: “We are proud to commence the DoualaLagos-Abidjan flight in September which is along the line of our vision to be the leading airline linking Atlantic Africa and the rest of the world”. He also announced that a new nine per cent commission for the Nigeria travel

agencies on each ticket sold as an incentive from the airline for their continuous support, noting that Lagos/Douala return ticket would cost about N56,175. Mbenda who had a stint with the now rested Air Nigeria assured the travel agencies that Camair-Co is now repositioned for better services with its continuous on-time departures as well as cutting edge customer-friendly services. As part of the services, Mbenda mentioned the

airline Star Awards with over 2,000 members is continuing to reward frequent travellers with free tickets for their loyalty. He further stated that the airline would take delivery of B-777 aircraft by the end of the year and two B787 dreamliners by the end of 2014. Furthermore, Ladipo Modupe of St. Clare Travels won Lagos/Doula/Paris return ticket courtesy of CamairCo.

THE GUARDIAN, Friday, August 16, 2013

FridayWorship By Afis A. Oladosu In the name of Allah, the beneficent, the merciful “When my servants question you about Me, tell them that I am very close to them. I answer the prayer of every suppliant when he calls Me; therefore, they should respond to Me and put their trust in Me, so that they may be rightly guided”-Q2: 186 E was the most popular teacher in the school. His first and only love was mathematics and because of this he was loved by some and loathed by others. Students who loathed him did so because his subject of interest was far from their realities. Each time he talked about the quadratic equation, his students always wondered how that could lead to a dramatic increase in the quantity of rice and beans that would be served to them at “break time”. Then one day, he entered the class and gleefully announced: “Today, I want to teach you an important formula in Mathematics: the almighty formula! It is the key with which you can open all doors in the field of “mathematics!” The students then kept quiet. They all wanted to learn new methods in the field of mathematics. “But No! Wait a minute” one of them cautioned. For a formula to be described as the “almighty”, for a mathematical formula to enjoy an attribute which belongs to the Divine, it must indeed be capable not only of solving all mathematical problems, it must also be capable of decoding and diagnosing all human problems and of offering solutions to same. But our mathematics teacher would not react to this enquiry, which smacked of cynicism.

“Surely, the religion with Allah is ISLAM,complete submission”... Qur’an 3:19

How the Almighty answers our prayers He was not sure there was a formula that could assist in solving all human problems. Brethren, the search for an almighty formula is initially fed by the search for unity; the quest for One which would be for all. This was prefigured in Newton’s creation of a single theory to describe the motion of celestial bodies, “the reconciliation, by Galileo, of sub-lunar and supra-lunar worlds when his telescope revealed mountains and valleys on the surface of the moon” and perhaps the most famous of all, that of Albert Einstein, who “melded space and time, until then distinct, into a unified space-time concept”. Einstein was said to have considered himself spiritual but not religious. His mathematical inquiries were derived from his desire to “know how God created this world”. He soon realised the truth that the world did have a Creator. But that discovery did not take him beyond that point; it did not make him a religious person. He says again: “The most beautiful and deepest experience a man can have is the sense of the mysterious. It is the underlying principle of religion as well as all serious endeavors in art and science. He who never had this experience seems to me, if not dead, then at least blind. To sense that behind anything that

can be experienced there is something that our mind cannot grasp and whose beauty and sublimity reaches us only indirectly and as a feeble reflection, this is religiousness. In this sense I am religious...” However, dear Brethren, I want you to ponder two related points in the story related above. The first is that Mathematics, particularly geometry, is an enthralling subject. It is the science of number. The greatest number, mathematicians would contend, is that after which none exists: that number is one. From figure one, you proceed to two, to three; beyond one there is nothingness; save for one, there would be chaos and anarchy. Were it not for His mercy and compassion, our world, yours and mine, would simply implode. Thus, dear brethren, there can be no almighty formula anywhere except that which the one, the Creator and Sustainer of the universe is pleased with. There is no automatic prayer anywhere, no “instant” magic in any place except that in which He approves. This leads to the second point of interest in today’s sermon. Dear brethren, I have no doubt in my mind that some of us must have approached the just concluded Ramadan with the best frame of mind we could muster. That brother could

have been informed by yet another brother or Shaykh that he should recite so and so as for that particular number of times and that whatever was his prayer point, such would be attended to immediately by the Almighty. That sister could have used some combinations of verses of the Quran as a therapy for that particular personal issue: marriage, fruit of the womb, promotion in the place of work. She could have been told: “this formula is magical; immediately after Ramadan expect practical manifestation of the acceptance of your dua; your supplications shall be granted instantly.” But this is about the second week after Ramadan and the sister is waiting! Five weeks after Ramadan that brother is still expecting. Questions would then begin to flood his mind. She would begin to ask herself: Is it that the Almighty has not accepted my supplication? Is that “formula magical after all?” Dear brethren, please remember that Ramadan came primarily to connect us with our Creator. It afforded us the opportunity to fulfill the essence of our creation: worship. Having said that, please note that all supplications put forward by the dutiful servants of the Almighty are accepted in one of three ways: either direct granting of objects of our desire, the replacement of what

we requested for with something better and more lasting, or the deployment of our supplication as ransom for an evil that could have befallen us were it not for that supplication we put forward to the Almighty. In other words, if we were to know the evil that the Almighty diverted from us through our constant supplications, we would have been more grateful to Him instead of being querulous and scurrilous; if we were to be shown the evil inherent in some of our supplications, we would have by ourselves requested that He should withhold the acceptance of our supplication. This is reminiscent of a brother who supplicates to the Almighty that He should facilitate the purchase of a car for him. If he were to know, for example, that the supplication has been used as ransom for an accident that would have happened to him immediately Ramadan came to an end, he would forever be grateful to the Almighty for His love. Thus, brethren, there is no almighty formula anywhere except in constant prayer, in patience with the Almighty and in good conduct. The only formula for instant acceptance of supplication and prayers is more prayers and supplications. Mahmud Shabistari says: Know that the world is a mirror: in each atom are found a hundred blazing suns. If you split the center of a single drop of water, a hundred pure oceans spring forth. If you examine each particle of dust, a thousand Adams can be seen. Brethren, life is a blend of pain and gain; those who are humble in gain and patient in pain will inherit the highest domain here on earth and the hereafter. When I look beside me in paradise may I find you in bliss, aaamin.

THE GUARDIAN, Friday, August 16, 2013

NigeriaCapitalMarket NSE Daily Summary (Equities) as at 15/8/2013 PRICE LIST OF SYMBOLS

THE GUARDIAN, Friday, August 16, 2013

50 CAPITAL MARKET

NSE Daily Summary (Equities) as at 15/8/2013

LOSERS

PRICE GAINERS

Zenith Bank posts N171b turnover, N54b PBT in six months By Helen Oji ENITH Bank Plc yesterday announced gross earnings of N171billion and profit before tax of N54.1 billion for the half year ended June 30, 2013, up from the N50.2billion posted in the corresponding period of 2012. Specifically, in the results made available to stock market operators on the floor of the Nigerian Stock Exchange (NSE), Zenith Bank’s profit after tax also rose from N42.41 billon to N45.419 bil-

lion. Gross earnings were N171 billion, up by 13 per cent above the N151 billion recorded in the same period in 2012. Interest income grew by 16 per cent from N111 billion to N128 billion, while net interest income appreciated by 15 per cent from N79.9 billion to N91.35 billion. Earnings per share followed the same positive trajectory, rising by 11 per cent from 134 kobo to 144 kobo. Customers’ deposits grew by 18 per cent from N1.701 tril-

lion to N2 trillion, indicating customers’ confidence in the bank. Also, cost to income ratio reduced from 57.2 per cent to 53.3 per cent. Market operators said the performance showed the positive trend the bank has been recording over the years, saying investors should expect another bountiful harvest in the current financial year. The Managing Director of Zenith Bank, Godwin Emefiele had told shareholders during the annual gener-

al meeting for the 2012 financial year in Lagos that the management would continue to work harder to ensure they put expenses under control for the general interest of our shareholders and the bank. Similarly, the Chairman of the bank, Steve Omojafor had assured shareholders that amid the face of a very challenging operating environment, Zenith Bank would maintain its culture of outstanding performance and industry leadership.

“As a bank, we are monitoring developments both in the local and global economy and adapting our strategies as appropriate. According to him, Zenith Bank began 2013 with confidence and remained committed to its primary goals and to drive shareholders value. “Our growth over the years has been organically and intrinsically linked with the growth of our people who are a veritable source of competitive advantage. Your

bank has always prided itself for attracting and developing the best talents, encouraging diversity and providing the best environment for a performance-driven organisational culture. “A relentless focus on our customer enabled the business to deliver bigger, better and faster products with the most of our service delivery engendered by rare innovations. We continue to drive dominance of our offerings in the core areas with an eye on the future,” he added.

THE GUARDIAN, Friday, August 16, 2013

Opinion An open letter to Governor Amaechi By Femi Otubanjo OUR Excellency, greetings and top of the day Y to you. I would have loved to talk to you in private but I know that I don’t have a chance of ever getting that privilege. The time it would take to go through the protocol of getting an appointment with you would probably have made my effort belated. I could, of course, have taken my chance and found a way of bagging into you at one of the social and political functions, which you attend, but I won’t have dared. I am not a suicidal person and I know that breaking the human security fence around governors is a mightier task than scaling the concrete American barb-wired fence of the average governor’s residence. Even in the sacred environment of a church, it takes the most tenacious classmate, associate or friend to greet a governor. I imagine that if President Goodluck Jonathan had not made it a habit of holding on firmly to his dear mother at church services and state occasions, his security agents would have found a way of blocking her away from him. It would appear that one of the fundamentals of security training is the deadening of the sense of recognition and discernment. I, actually, once had a chance of speaking oneon-one with you. I sat at an arms-length from you at breakfast at the Federal Palace Hotel, Victoria Island, Lagos. I had gone there that morning, courtesy of my friend, Prof. Godwin Sogolo, who was a guest at the hotel. I was excited when you came in and sat at the next table to ours; you were so casual and so much at ease, that no one could have suspected that you were the governor of a state, but that was well before the furore over the Nigeria Governor’s Forum chairmanship election and the political turmoil in your state. I was in a vantage position to harm you, if I was so-minded; so also were several other people in that breakfast room, but, mercifully, the balance of probability was on your side. Those who are likely to harm a state governor are unlikely to be those who go to the Federal Palace Hotel for breakfast! When you were then swept off your feet and driven away from the hotel in what looked like an armored SUV, surrounded by exuberant guards and a noisy motorcade, I couldn’t but reflect on the futility of the “iron curtains” which are

drawn around our leaders, in the name of security. Pardon me for allowing my frustration about some of the absurdities of leadership in Nigeria to prolong your anxiety about the message I wish to convey to you in this letter. It is, simply, to ask you to make peace with the President/Presidency; starting the process by resigning from the position of Chairman of the Nigeria Governors’ Forum. I am suggesting this line of action, not because I consider you the guilty party in the squabble with the Presidency and the political turmoil in your state. On the contrary, I share the popular perception of you as the victim of a power play. I am sure that you know that most Nigerians were on your side and were disgusted at the crudity of those who had sought to teach you a lesson by misusing the institutions of state and assaulting our common sense, with the absurd attempt by five legislators to impeach a Speaker, supported by 25 other members of the House. I also wish to believe that you know that most Nigerians applauded your victory in the NGF chairmanship election over a candidate supported by the almighty machinery of the Presidency and the PDP. You have shown yourself to be a valiant fighter and a deft politician. This is, of course, consistent with the doggedness and perseverance, which characterized your legal battle for the governorship of Rivers State, in the face of mighty odds. Obviously, you have the capacity to fight for any cause you believe in. However, the issues in your fight with the Presidency are still not too obvious. Can it be said that you are fighting to assert the autonomy of the NGF from the Presidency or you are just using the NGF as a façade for a fight whose origins and purpose may not have been fully disclosed? If your fight with the Presidency is about the right of the NGF to decide its leadership, you obviously, won that battle, but, unfortunately, you have lost the war. The NGF has been crippled ever since; one faction has become the very thing you seem to be fighting against, a lackey of the Presidency while your own faction has become ostracised and voiceless. In either case, the NGF has lost its

ability to be an effective pressure group. One faction is taking its orders from the Presidency, while yours can no longer intercede with the Presidency on matters of interest to the states. Your chairmanship has become an albatross to the NGF and I am sure it has never been your wish for things to turn out this way. As long as you remain a factional chairman of the NGF, the situation would be like that of a chicken perched on a cloth-line, with neither having any comfort nor peace (ara o’rokun ara o r’adie). Let me assure you that I believe in the rightness of your cause, but I find it difficult to applaud your method. You should not have persisted in your fight for the chairmanship of the NGF when you could not persuade majority of your fellow PDP governors to support it. It doesn’t sound right that your NGF victory was achieved, largely, with the support of governors from opposition parties. You are a PDP governor and you ought to have given consideration to the interest of your party. In most democracies, the party whip remains an important tool for ensuring cohesion, discipline and effective party governance. It is uncommon for a major functionary of a party, a governor of a state for that matter, to openly defy the party. If the fight is substantially due to a clash of ambitions, I wish to say, with all sense of seriousness, that political prudence dictates that you should have cleared your aspiration with President Jonathan before pursuing it to the point of being discovered, essentially, because you are from the same party and geo-political zone. Honestly, your ambition should have been predicated on that of President Goodluck Jonathan. If he is not running in 2015, then there would have been nothing untoward in your Vice-Presidential ambition, but if he is, your own ambition cannot make sense. Do you seriously think that the interest of the Niger-Delta would be better served by your Vice-Presidency than Jonathan’s second term as President? It would have made more sense if you were to be aspiring to be the President. You would still, of course, have incurred the

wrath of President Jonathan and his close associates, but they would not have had the moral ground to cast you as a traitor to the cause and interest of the people of your zone. Now that you have seen samples of the manifestation of that wrath, it should be obvious to you that you might be fighting a war that you not only cannot possibly win, but may consume you. The voices of reason and democracy may be on your side, but they will not be able to protect or save you from the combined forces of powerful enemies within your state and without. And you, of course, know that you have powerful enemies from within your state who you kept at bay, in your first six years as governor, with the enormous resources at your disposal and excellent developmental strides. You have now lost that advantage. You have allowed your enemies to key into the infinite might and resources of the Presidency. Unless you make peace with the Presidency, they will continue to get stronger and they will continue to assail you. Unfortunately, while your traducers can come at you in several ways and can do so without, even, stepping on the soil of your state, you can only fight back with your own blood and sweat. The way things are, you are like a motorcycle rider crashing into a heavy-duty lorry, with all its steel and armoured plating. The roar and sympathy of on-lookers, however many, will avail you nothing. Make peace now with your enemies; without fail, with the Presidency, to unloosen the powerful coalition that has crystallized against you. You have done a great job in your state in the last six years and you have established a national reputation as a resolute, intelligent and principled politician. Don’t allow others to determine the agenda of the remaining two years of your tenure. If you continue to fight, you will be distracted, your people and the governance of your state will suffer while you, yourself, will be in perpetual danger. You must review your mission today and change your tactics. Will continuing the fight against the Presidency advance your mission? I think not. But if you are tempted to think it would, I wish to plead with you to take to heart the wise words of that legendary second world-war American tank general, George Paton: “Don’t fight any battle if you are not going to gain anything by winning”. • Otubanjo is a Professor of Political Science.

Celebrate friends every day, everywhere By Babette Lijadu HE importance of friendship cannot be overemphasised. T It was Mohammed Ali who said, “friendship is the hardest thing in the world to explain. It’s not something you learn in school. But if you haven’t learned the meaning of friendship, you really haven’t learned anything.” History is littered with stories of great friendships that have not only enriched personal lives but have shaped the destinies of entire countries. The great American president, Abraham Lincoln’s friendship with Joshua Speed (one time American Senator) is said to have influenced his politics. Speed, whom Lincoln met when he was a young man of 28 years old went on to share a lifelong friendship with the late president. Lincoln was said to have discussed everything from love to possible emancipation with Speed and many consider Speed to have been one of the few people with whom Lincoln could talk freely. The friendship between Gertrude Stein and Ernest Hemingway was said to have been so profound that it is described as one of the major influences in each person’s literary development. Another great literary friendship is that between C.S. Lewis and J.R. Tolkien. Each writer is famous for the worlds they created: Lewis’s Narnia and Tolkien’s Middle Earth. The two became the best of friends because of not only their belief in the power of myth and writing but also because of shared religious beliefs. In more recent times we can see this in the 33-year long friendship between Oprah and her best friend Gayle King. The

two met while on a work assignment and have been inseparable since. Oprah is not shy about speaking of the support that Gayle has provided to her over the years as she made her way to being one of the most influential people alive today. Bringing it back home, some well-known friendships have shaped industries within our country. Look at D1 and Kenny Ogungbe. These entertainment industry moguls have shared a friendship lasting decades dating as far back as the early 1980s. I remember my husband telling me how as young boys in boarding school, they gathered around the TV on Friday evenings to watch AIT Jams (as it was then known, later called Prime Time Africa). Keke and D1 were instrumental to the rise of the likes of Daddy Showkee, 2Face etc – shaping the face of modern Nigerian music. The contents of the show formed what was dormitory gist for the next week until the next show and many young boys looked up to these role models, as I am sure some still do today. It is easy to get carried away with the above stories of friendship and inspiration forgetting what happens when friendships are not celebrated. For this I only need one recent example – two well-known Nigerian music artistes both with stage names beginning with D. All of the above examples only point us to the reason why we ought to celebrate friends everyday everywhere. Friends can mean the difference between success and failure, being famous and being a non-entity. For something so integral to everyday life, our friends need to be remembered and celebrated at every opportunity. However, testament to the fickleness of human beings is the fact that a day has been set aside to remind us to celebrate it.

On April 27, 2011 the General Assembly of the United Nations officially declared July 30 as International Friendship Day, although depending on which part of the world you live in the day could vary. The first World Friendship Day was proposed in Paraguay in 1958 even though the tradition dates back to the early 1900s and, some countries, including India, celebrate Friendship Day on the first Sunday of August (August 4, 2013). Year after year, many UN observances are heralded for weeks in advance with billboards, newspaper adverts, and online marketing emails telling you that someone somewhere is celebrating some international day or another – no such luck with International Friendship Day. This year, much the same was expected, but to my surprise, one brand seemed to have clocked on – Guinness Nigeria’s Harp, ran a campaign on Facebook and Twitter raising awareness for the day and encouraging people to give a shout out to their ‘padi’ with #thatpadi on Twitter and also stand a chance to win some prizes. The brand even went as far as putting adverts in national papers wishing Nigerians a Happy Friendship Day. It seems apt that this brand should associate itself with International Friendship Day as the brand’s pay off line is ‘Celebrate with Friends’ and so this day should carry a special meaning for their brand. As Apostle Paul commented in the Bible, what then do we say to all these? It’s quite simple really – celebrate friends everyday, everywhere, and celebrate them twice as much on International Friendship Day. • Lijadu wrote from Lagos.

THE GUARDIAN, Friday, August 16, 2013

Opinion Oyo and its dissemblers By Akinlolu Hassan Governor of Oyo State, Senator Rashidi Adewolu Ladoja, FwhoatORMER first sight, may not strike you as a brilliant man. But those mis-read his grasp of politics often live to regret it. His major strength is the tendency of his traducers to take him for granted, equating his yokel looks with the strength of his political machinations. Those who take him for granted never exist on the political front to tell the story. He makes mincemeat of them via his political punches. But Ladoja could be uncompromising when he chooses a particular path to tread. Perfecting the Adedibu School of Politics’ political methodology of tar-brushing political opponents, make them so unworthy and then ram in the final nail, seldom does Ladoja have a rival in the mastery of this political weapon. For instance, aware of the populist disposition of the Lam Adesina Alliance for Democracy (AD) government and desirous of making an inroad into the government of the time, Ladoja began the systematic tar-brush of the governor as an Ebira man. His disciples, who cut across a broad clientele, were summoned to spread the gospel of this mudslinging throughout the nooks and crannies of Oyo State. Before Great Lam could wake up from his defence that his great grandfathers’ umbilical cords were interred on Ibadan soil, Ladoja’s lie had metastasized in the consciousness of the people like cancerous cells. The rest, as they say, is history. Right now, Ladoja is fighting a battle of his political life. It must have occurred to him that, at age 72 in 2015, if he fails to make an appearance at the Agodi Government House, his political fate would be sealed forever. And as such, the obsessive desperation to hone his political skills and make ample use of the wiles of his trade. But, at a point, Ladoja was in a dilemma. Virtually in all nooks and crannies of Oyo State and even beyond, the renown of his cousin and nemesis, Ajimobi, was becoming unbearable. Indeed, the encomiums freely poured on him are a great indictment of Ladoja’s stint in office as governor. Undoubtedly, the most debilitating of all the punches rained on Ladoja by Ajimobi’s strides is the construction of the Mokola flyover in Ibadan. Because Mokola is critical and strategic in the transportation network of Ibadan in terms of commerce and being one of the earliest roads in that part of the country, it was necessary to have the fly-over. Also, travellers commuting from Lagos to Oyo had to pass through this route in the transportation of their goods. This has thus caused a traffic implosion, which renders this road intersection extremely busy and jam-packed. This

fly-over is thus a tool to reduce traffic conflicts, reduce accidents, loss of lives and man-hour wastages. The fly-over is mindful of the historical import of the route and takes into cognizance the trajectory of the Mokola-Sango-Dugbe Road. When Ajimobi began the construction of the bridge, Ladoja realized the shine it would take off him, so he tried to appropriate it. On a radio interview, he told his audience that he owned the fly-over blueprint as it was one of the bridges he had dreamt of constructing. Assailed by the deluge of kudos to Ajimobi over it and the massive encomiums he is receiving for restoring the beauty of the state, Ladoja began his usual campaign of calumny targeted at weakening the support base of the Ajimobi government. And he has been making a good job of it. His attacks are based on a quartet prong. One, that the fly-over is substandard. Second, that its price was inflated and third, that it was not necessary. On a different level, he attacks the government as not having a human face for, in his words, removing traders from markets without alternatives. To buttress his argument on the first charge, he wondered why barriers would be placed on the fly-over, maintaining that it means the bridge is not strong enough. The Action Congress of Nigeria (ACN) in Oyo State sees the weakness of Ladoja’s arguments as unbecoming of an engineer, but the truth of an argument is inconsequential in Ladoja’s tar-brushing propaganda. That a barrier was put at the foot of a fly-over indicates that it is weak? You do not even require the rigour of an engineering school to realize the falsity of this assertion. Down there in Lagos, the Amuwo-Odofin/Festac, Kodesoh, Mobolaji Bank Anthony, Yaba, Airport Road bridges etc. have barriers at their feet to discourage articulated vehicles. That a former governor of a state in this century, who claims to be an engineer, would make this allegation speaks volume of the retrogression that befell Oyo State over the years. That it was unnecessary? This contradicts even Ladoja himself. If it was, why did he, according to him, have the blueprint for it in the first instance? If it then was unnecessary, why does he now advocate that the bridge should have been a dual carriage? The truth is that there is no need for the fly-over to be a double lane bridge or else, it would be a colossal wastage. Even the Molete flyover is not necessary as a dual carriage bridge as there is sparse traffic on it. Ladoja’s mischief is most vivid on the cost of the fly-over. On a recent radio programme in Ibadan, he stuck at this dross shamelessly while comparing the one in Abeokuta with the Mokola

fly-over. Again, was the falsehood being peddled by Ladoja as a result of mischief or naivety? For instance, rather than the length of the Ibadan bridge being 550 metres, he called it 470 meters and the Abeokuta bridge that is 400 meters, he says it was 620 meters. It is the usual Ladoja misinformation machinery. But the most significant answer to his caterwaul of naivety and mischief is that while the Abeokuta fly-over truly costs N1.5 billion, Ibadan’s cost N2.9 billion but the variances in their packages make the difference. First, before the award of the constructions, the two governments never came together to compare notes and as such do not have the same Bill of Quantity. Second, being a rocky town and sited on a rocky foundation, the Abeokuta bridge apparently requires lesser cost on its foundation but Ibadan does not have a visible rocky outcrop as the foundation of a bridge should be on a solid rock strata. Thus, the foundation type of the Abeokuta bridge requires lesser rigour than Ibadan’s. Again, the Ibadan bridge goes with several ancillary furniture that the Abeokuta own does not have. These are 500mm water mains of steel pipes of about 2km, as the old water pipelines were replaced. Second, there is a 1.2 kilometer road network that was rehabilitated and widened beside the Ibadan bridge which is included in the costing, as well as the cost of relocation of PHCN (electrical) and telecommunications facilities. Also included in it is the cost of compensation for demolished buildings and beautification around the fly-over. Not done, Ladoja has intensified the campaign to paint Ajimobi’s government as inhuman due to its removal of street traders. He cited the example of the Bola Ige government, which relocated traders from old Gbagi to old Ife Road. Again, the Ladoja disinformation is that Ajimobi never relocated traders from any market but street traders, for whom he has constructed an ultra-modern shopping complex and is still building more. But, while he was governor and he pulled down shops, did Ladoja construct any in replacement? Why the escapism of citing Ige when he could have given examples of himself? But why would a man who, as the Ashipa of Ibadanland, close to being the Olubadan of Ibadanland, relish such disinformation? Ladoja is desperate for power, a mamba provoked and ready to sting. But why would a man who should be a statesman embark on such Samsonic Pull Down the House campaign that can be likened to the proverbial Yoruba rat which vows that, rather than it not having a bite of the cowpeas, it would rather scatter the beans tray? • Hassan teaches English Literature in a secondary school at Monatan, Ibadan.

Summing-up Chinua Achebe (1930-2013) (3) By Abiola Irele Continued from yesterday. HEN we turn to Arrow of God, undoubtedly Chinua Achebe’s masterpiece, we encounter a broader and more functional conception of the interactions between the various spheres of the communal life reconstructed in Things Fall Apart. It is notable in this respect that, in the later novel, the category of the sacred has come to assume a sharper sociological character, the politics of which are made manifest in the contest of wills between Ezeulu and Nwaka, the two protagonists who dominate the novel’s action, each one invoking the authority of his titular deity in his claim to power and social preferment. Here, the role of the sacred has to do specifically with the internal order of the traditional system that the novel explores. For while the colonial encounter serves as the historical reference in this novel, it remains for the most part in the background, external to the daily routine of life of the native population. In other words, the colonial event is hardly deployed to sustain the narrative tenor, but serves merely as a frame that shapes Ezeulu’s responses to events and points us in the direction of his fall. It is only with this tragic resolution that the colonial factor emerges as the underlying key of the novel’s expressive purpose: to register the momentous shift in the African mode of relation to the world occasioned by the incursion of Europe. Arrow of God is thus concerned with a fundamental moment of transition in the collective existence. Achebe’s deliberate focus on the internal tensions of the native condition needs to be appreciated in this perspective, for this is a novel that goes to the very heart of the institutional and ideological fabric by which the communal compact was sustained in the demanding circumstances of traditional society and experience. The rhetoric of public discourse that occupies so much of the novel appears in this light as a mode of address designed to ensure civility in the most

literal and profound sense of the term – that is, as a code that serves to impose a constraint upon individual impulses and narrow interests, while accommodating divergent but deeply held principles of social participation and religious function. Even at its moments of greatest tension, Arrow of God proposes a positive image of this ideological system as a stabilizing force and its expressive possibilities. At the same time, in a kind of ironic counter thrust to its valuation in moral and aesthetic terms, the narrative as it unfolds turns upon the progressive breakdown of this system, along with the entire social framework within which it functions. The point is that this progression is inherent in the logic of history as embodied in the colonial encounter, a logic that assumes an implacable character registered quite early in the novel in Ezeulu’s consciousness. It can be said indeed to constitute a major point of reference for the pronounced reflective disposition of the character, emphasized by the fact that so much of the narrative is focused on Ezeulu’s family ties and preoccupations, a feature that endows the narrative with a peculiar density and symbolic meaning. Ezeulu’s patriarchal stature is thus conveyed not only in his superior intelligence and moral demeanour, but also in the depth of feeling that he demonstrates for his offspring, a concern that is charged with the sense of a foreboding about the implications of the white man’s presence in their midst. We may note in this regard the special attention that is devoted to the relationship between Ezeulu and his son, Obika, whom he expects to succeed him in his priestly functions and who occupies the foreground of the novel at crucial moments. Indeed, what appears as Ezeulu’s positive response to the white man is conditioned by this relationship, so that the tolling of the church bells is immediately associated with Obika’s conversion to Christianity, despite what we recognize as its

ambiguity, and is read perceptively by Ezeulu as the sign of the passing of the traditional ways. The sense of an impending disruption of the order of things that hovers upon the course of events in the novel is fully transmitted in the powerful narration of Obika’s death while running with the masquerade. The shattering effect of this incident on Ezeulu may be interpreted as a premonition of the catastrophe that overwhelms him and comes to portend the dissolution of the spiritual ground upon which the integrity of the community he represents has rested through the span of remembered time. The depiction of Ezeulu’s personality and its bearing on the crisis of his society illuminate Achebe’s conception of the character, brought out in its full dramatic significance in the scene in which Ezeulu is seen returning to his village after his release from the colonial prison, accompanied by a lone member of his household, a scene that recalls King Lear’s final moments in Shakespeare’s tragedy. The pathos of this scene and his descent into madness lend grandeur to the character of Ezeulu, for in his confrontation with events, he emerges as a “world historical” figure, in the same company as the victims of conquest in universal history – figures such as Turnus, Hector and Vercingentorix in western literature and more to the point, Samory and Overranwe Nogbaisi in the African context – heroes who are vanquished and yet remain significant figures of historical and moral reflection. In other words, beyond its local reference, Ezeulu’s very destruction bears the sign of the paradox of history, the inscrutable principle – the “hidden god” as it were –of human experience. Arrow of God plumbs the depths of this experience as inscribed in our own circumstances, and it is from its engagement with this theme, from the quality of enunciation of its narrative possibilities and epochal significance – that the novel derives its effect and power. In any appraisal of Chinua Achebe’s achievement, the two novels examined here must take

pride of place. They are important not only for the effort of historical and cultural reformulation to which they testify, but also for the insight they provide into the workings of Achebe’s creative mind. For these are reflective novels, in a self-conscious kind of way, and the responses they bring to light proceed from a double perspective, arising from the two frames of reference of Achebe’s cultural location and inspiration. The primary impulse has to do with what may be termed his traditionalism, an affective embrace of what seem to him the sustaining values of the pre-colonial dispensation in Africa. But it must be observed that Achebe’s traditionalism was not a naïve promotion of a way of life in decline, but a principled rejection of the terms of the colonial disparagement of Africa. Over and against this ideological position must be placed his clear-sighted intellectual perception of the inadequacies of the traditional culture in the context of an emergent modernity associated with the West, an understanding that recognizes the inevitable displacement of the structure of thought that predominates in precolonial society and the life choices it determines in the objective world. That is to say, Achebe’s intuition of the supercession of tradition in vital areas of thought and action upon the world haunts the extended meditation in his novels upon the African experience. The observe of this awareness points to an ideal of African renewal as the primary reference of a commitment to modernity that Achebe has indicated as a determining element of his thought – a commitment that may not be unconditional, but one that moves decidedly beyond a passive acceptance. In short, a profound ambivalence is at the heart of Achebe’s work – an ambivalence that he was never able to overcome in his long and extremely productive writing career. • Concluded. • Irele is Provost, College of Humanities and Social Sciences, Kwara State University, Malete.

THE GUARDIAN, Friday, August 16, 2013

THE GUARDIAN, Friday, August 16,

THE GUARDIAN, Friday, August 16, 2013

THE GUARDIAN, Friday, August 16,

THE GUARDIAN, Friday, August 16, 2013

Sports Moscow 2013 IAAF World Championships

SuperSport unveil plans for new European season, Nigerian league

Okagbare faces Jamaica, American challenge in 200m final today By Gowon Akpodonor IGERIA’S only medalist so far in the on-going Moscow 2013 World Championship, Blessing Okagbare may have to go the extra mile this afternoon if she must accomplish her dream of picking a medal in the 200m race. The final of the women’s 200m will take place at 21.15 pm today and the Nigerian sprinter will compete in lane six. She will run in the middle of two hot sprinters, who emerged winner and runners up in the 100m final decided on Monday. While Okagbare is in lane six, the world 100m champion, Jamaica’s Shelly-Ann Praser-Pryce will run from her left hand side in lane 5. To compete from Okagbare’s right hand side is the silver medalist in Monday’s 100m final, Murielle Ahoure of Ivory Coast. The Ivorian surprised many athletics followers on Monday when she dusted a pack of great sprinters, including America’s

ATELLITE television sports Syesterday broadcaster, Supersport, in Lagos said it has concluded plans to broadcast over 1,500 top-flight live football matches from across the best leagues in the world to Nigerians in the new football season, which starts this weekend. Speaking at the National Stadium, Lagos, Supersport West Africa General Manager, Felix Awogu assured subscribers of the best of local and international action on SuperSport channels on DStv as another season kicks off. He added that though there is excitement about the array of European leagues on parade, one of SuperSport’s main objectives is to assist the Nigerian football league become the biggest in Africa and one that can compare favourably with the best leagues in the world. “To achieve this, we have consistently lent our support to the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) and Nigeria Sports Commission (NSC) through training of sports administrators. In the recent past, we have taken club managers and sports editors to Germany to understudy the German Bundesliga, which is arguably the bestmanaged league in the world, and evolve a policy for the growth and development of our own league,” he further explained.

Carmelita Jetter and Okagbare in the final. Also in today’s 200m final is Allyson Felix of U.S.A. She is in lane 4. The American came first ahead of Okagbare in the second semi-final yesterday. Another American athlete, Jeneba Tarmoh is also in the race. She is in lane one. All the three semi-final victors are laying claim to the gold. Allyson Felix, the Olympic champion and a three-time winner of this title has all the experience and pedigree required. Jamaica’s Fraser-Pryce, the Olympic silver medallist is much hungrier to land the sprint double having struck 100m gold on Monday. Ahouré of Ivory Coast believes she can now mix it with the world’s best after winning World 100m silver three days earlier. For Okagbare, who is world number four in the 200m, anything can happen in today’s final, despite not finishing first in the semifinal yesterday.

No favourites in 200m final, says Okagbare • Men’s 4x400 relay team crash out IGERIA’S entrant in the N 200 metres women event, Blessing Okagbare believes there are no favourites in tonight’s final. Although she admits she is not in the shape she was at the start of the championships, she is, however, determined to race to the podium to become the first Nigerian woman to win a 200m medal, as well as the first Nigerian, man or woman, to win two medals at the same championships. “My legs are not feeling as great as the first day but that was expected. I am just taking

Bondarenko

it one step at a time. When it’s qualification, I worry about qualification, when it is the semi-final I worry about the semi-final... otherwise it is too much for my brain. “I am fine. Anybody can medal, so I just don’t underestimate anyone,” said the Beijing Olympics long jump bronze medallist. Meanwhile, the men’s 4x400m relay team of Noah Akwu, Biola Onakoya, Tobi Ogunmola and Isa Salihu ran 3:04.52 seconds to place seventh in the first semifinal and crash out of the championships.

Nigeria’s Blessing Okagbare (left) and American Allyson Felix compete during the women’s 200 metres semi-final of the 2013 IAAF World Championships at the Luzhniki stadium in Moscow yesterday.

Ukrainian star fails world record bid, wins high jump gold KRAINIAN high jumper, U Bohdan Bondarenko laid his wiry frame on the blue rubber of the Luzhniki track and went through a mental checklist as he peered into the dusky Moscow sky. World championship gold in the bag? Check. Bar set at world record height? Check. The attention of an entire stadium? To the chagrin of track officials waiting impatiently to start a 1,500-meter final, check. Rising to his feet – one in a red shoe, the other in yellow – Bondarenko put a finger to his lips, and on cue 30,000 onlookers fell eerily silent. Would Javier Sotomayor’s 20year-old mark finally fall? In the end, only attempt two at 2.46 meters came close; Bondarenko’s backside slicing the bar off its perch. A disappointment? Perhaps. But at the same time, here was an athlete – excitingly – with an ego too robust to allow the Cuban’s mark of 2.45 to stand for too long. Anyone, who witnessed how he secured the gold medal in the first place would have been convinced

of that. By the time most of the 12 jumpers had crashed out of the final, Bondarenko had jumped just once, dismissively passing up on the first two heights and three subsequent heights. Without breaking a sweat, he had whittled the field down to three. Having wobbled uncharacteristically on his first attempt, Bondarenko owned 2.41 at the second. The two other finalists, London 2012 joint bronze medalists Mutaz Essa Barshim of Qatar and Canada’s Derek Drouin, simply cracked, perhaps making the mistake of witnessing the distance by which Bondarenko had equaled his own world-leading jump. Then came mind games that would embarrass a chess grandmaster. With a national record under his belt Drouin was out, and Barshim, the Qatari, still had two attempts left at 2.41. Realising he had the silver snagged and with nothing to lose, he skipped straight to 2.44 to try and snatch the gold from under

Bondarenko’s nose. But before Barshim could jump, Bondarenko registered with officials that he would skip straight from 2.41 to an unprecedented 2.46. Barshim, a 22-year-old upstart with even less toplevel experience – and certainly none of the swagger – of Bondarenko, had attempted to take the game to his opponent but was hit with a psychological counterpunch that proved fatal. On both his final attempts, Barshim looked defeated before he even reached the bar, and it was checkmate. “I didn’t watch the last attempt by Barshim. I felt all right and it didn’t matter whether he would make it or not,” Bondarenko said. “I was focused on my bar rather than my rivals.” Bondarenko held up the track schedule for a good two minutes before upsetting the world record bar three times – the third time palming it away with vainglorious contempt before dashing into the crowd in wild celebration. • Culled from www.en.rian.ru

12 teams for ARS U-17 national finals WELVE teams made up of T 192 players will be vying for honours in the male and female categories of the season three of Airtel Rising Stars (ARS) U-17 national final, which will kick off on August 23 to 25 in Lagos. The teams qualified for the three-day championship after featuring in the zonal championship phase where they had to see off strong competition for the national finals tickets from other equally good teams in their zones. Lagos and Port Harcourt however emerged through a selection process midwifed by the State chapters of the Youths Sports Federation of Nigeria (YSFON) and the Nigerian Referees Association (NRA) with support from the States’ Football Associations. The zonal championship held in six centres across the federation, and these include Kaduna, Abuja, Enugu, Port Harcourt, Ibadan and Lagos. Each of the centres will feature one male team and female team each at the national finals. To qualify for the national finals, Kaduna male team defeated a selected side via penalties after earning a barren draw during regulation time while the female team ran away with a lone goal advantage over another Kaduna selected side.

THE GUARDIAN, Friday, August 16, 2013

SPORTS 59

Mandela Challenge Fall-Out

Keshi hails exciting Eagles, as Igesund acknowledges Nigeria’s superiority Eagles’ Coach, ShideUPER Stephen Keshi could not his satisfaction after

Super Eagles celebrating with the trophy after beating the Bafana Bafana to win the Mandela Challenge in Durban…on Wednesday.

PHOTO: AFP.

Toriola, Oshonaike lead Team Nigeria to Lagos International Table Tennis Classics African FandORMER Champions, Segun Toriola Funke Oshonaike will spearhead Team Nigerian quest for honours in the main draw of the first Lagos International Table Tennis Classics. Toriola, a six-time Olympian will be joined in the men’s team by Portugalbased Aruna Quadri, former junior sensation, Ojo Onaolapo and rave of the moment, Kazeem Makanjuola. For the women’s team, Germany-based Oshonaike, a five-time Olympian will lead the team and Edem Offiong, Janet Effiom and National Sports Festival champion, Rasheedat Ogundele, will

join her as they confront other top players at the event. In the junior category, Jide Omotayo and Tosin Oribamise will lead Team Nigeria onslaught in the event. However, the likes of Monday Merotohun, Seun Ajetunmobi, Ganiat Ogudele and Cecilia Otu-Akpan will be aiming for places in the main draw as they file out against their compatriots in the twoday qualifiers meant for Nigeria-based players, which will serve off on Wednesday August 22. Meanwhile, Vice President, African Table Tennis Federation (ATTF), Olabanji Oladapo believes the classics would surely improve the lot

of the game in Nigeria. “My expectation of Nigerian players is to represent the country well as sports men and women. It will be an icing on the cake if they win the classics. We were in the process of wasting a generation of players to inactivity and lack of exposure. By hosting the classics, our players will have the opportunity to play and watch highly ranked players in action,” he said. The ITTF board member added, “the classics is an ATTF / ITTF approved competition. Hence, it offers Nigerian players in the top three an opportunity to score points and be ranked by the ITTF. It is the beginning of many good

things to come. He lauded the board of the Nigeria Table Tennis Federation (NTTF) for putting the tournament together within a short period of time. “I want to commend the NTTF President, Wahid Oshodi and his team for their hard work in ensuring they deliver a well-organised competition. The idea of this competition was conceived at the end of June and it will take place in August. It is only in Nigeria that such a thing can happen. My colleagues in the ATTF/ITTF are still very skeptical as I give regular progress reports but I am sure they will be positively shocked when they arrive for the competition,” he explained.

NSC South East Zone 1 chess tourney debuts From Lawrence Njoku, Enugu RRANGEMENTS have now been concluded for the maiden edition of South East Zone 1 two-day chess competition for secondary schools scheduled for Enugu. The three states that make up zone 1 are Anambra, Ebonyi and Enugu. Speaking yesterday at the Nnamdi Azikiwe Stadium, Enugu, Co-ordinator of the zone, Stanley Okebugwu said the competition would help raise a formidable Under-17 chess team for the zone. Okebugwu hinted that the event would take place at the Media Center of Nnamdi Azikiwe Stadium, Enugu on August 21 and 22. He disclosed that about 32 athletes would participate in the competition, adding that wild card had been given to the Association of Private

Schools in Enugu State to participate in the tournament. “Each state including the Association of Private Schools in Enugu would present four male and four female players at the championship. Besides, certificates of participation, a total prize money of ninety thousand (90,000.00) would be won,” he said. Okebugwu said the competition would be unique as it would be thebe the first time in history of the zone that a chess tournament for secondary schools would be taking place. He added that the need to discover talents that would be groomed for future major tournaments within and outside the country, as well as, to keep the youths busy this holiday period also informed the decision to organise the event.

Okebugwu described chess as a sport that stimulates the brain cells and quickens its reaction, adding that the

nation has featured prominently in the sport in many international tournaments.

Nigeria’s 2-0 defeat of South Africa in the Mandela Challenge on Wednesday in Durban. The coach, who received a lot of flak after his team’s poor show at the Brazil 2013 Confederations Cup, was particularly happy with the performance of the strikers, especially youngster, Uche Nwofor, who scoreed the two goals that downed the Bafana Bafana on Mandela’s day. Nwofor, a substitute, scored two second half goals as the Eagles maintained their superiority over the Bafana Bafana. Aside Nwofor, Keshi was also happy that Shola Ameobi acquiited himself honourably in the game. “We had some new players in the team who didn’t really understand our movement with and without the ball and the way we want to play. We didn’t keep the shape of the team well in the last 15 minutes of the first half. “But in the second half we came back and tried to use the older players in the team, who understand how we play and it paid off. I think it was a good game; we saw some entertaining attacking movements. “With a lot of respect for Bafana Bafana, I think there’s a lot of potential in their team that they can build on and get the best out of the players.” The Super Eagles will now switch focus to the all-important World Cup qualifier against Malawi in Calabar on September 7 and Keshi

believes his side will benefit from the competitive sparring match against Gordon Igesund’s side. “The scoreline is not what is important for me, it’s about the unity, how we played and the attitude of the players because the most important game for us is on September 7 against Malawi,” he added. “This is a great reunion factor for us, just to build our confidence to go on and get ready for that game.” Meanwhile, Bafana Bafana Coach, Gordon Igesund believes Nigeria deserved their 2-0 win over his side as they were more clinical in front of goal. “I’d like to congratulate Nigeria; they beat us convincingly and I think they deserved their victory,” said Igesund. “Throughout the game, especially in the last third, they were much better than us; they used the ball better and they were more patient. “I think we created a couple of chances, especially in the first half, but we just couldn’t get on the end of them. In the second half they scored the goal that made us chase the game and after that the second goal game. “We kept trying to get back into the game but I think the difference between the two teams was our play in the last third.” Nonetheless, Igesund believes his side can take some lessons from this encounter ahead of the crucial qualifier against Botswana in September.

Crunch fixtures to determine Telecom Games’ last finalists HE Nigeria Telecoms T Games (NTG) may have kicked off on July 14 and have seen many exciting games and results, but this weekend’s fixtures will be the most enthralling and nerve-wrecking as they decide the remaining finalist to match up with Cup holders, MTN that already qualified for the finals despite the 1-0 surprise slump to Ericsson last week. It is the final round of round

Marketing Manager, SuperSport, Chidozie Bede-Nwokoye (left); General Manager, SuperSport, Felix Awogu; and General Manager, Marketing; Sales, Multichoice, Martin Mabutho and Head of Corporate Communication, Multichoice Nigeria, Segun Fayose (right), during the SuperSport pre-soccer season press briefing at the National Stadium, Lagos…yesterday.

robin matches on Saturday and a lot of permutations have been thrown up based on the way the log stands as at now. This simply means that the possibility of teams ending in a tie exists and this has necessitated the tie breaker rules being re-emphasised by the organisers, Mediavision Limited. According to the Group Executive Director, Special Project, Jimmy Sogbesan, the “Tie Breaker Rule stipulates that in the case of a tie on points between teams of the same group at the round robin stage, the decision will favour the team with a better head to head record in matches against each other.” He said this means that results between the two teams tied will be taken into consideration first with the team winning that game going ahead of the other and in the event that Head to Head becomes cyclical then goal difference comes into play. In the matches this weekend, LM Ericsson, which earned their first three points last week will face another debut winner, Alcatel Lucent while Etisalat and Airtel engage in a winner takes all contest.

THE GUARDIAN, Friday, August 16, 2013

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School Sports Mobil athletics camp excites kids, as NIS steps in Calabar By Gowon Akpodonor WO statisticians of the NaT tional Institute of Sports (NIS) have joined the Track and Field holiday camping and training for secondary schools in Akwa Ibom State. Coaches and officials of the two-week event were pleasantly surprised on Monday when the Co-coordinator of the programme, Paul Bassey, introduced to them two staff of the NIS, seconded to the programme by the Director of the Institute, Dr. O. S. Ikhioya. The duo of Dr. John DadiMahmud and Dr. C. U. Azubuike arrived Calabar to put the programme in proper perspective, as is the culture all over the world. According to Azubuike, “we are here to make sure that even before the students start their programme, we have enough data on them.” Before the training commenced, the two statisticians were busy collating the weight, height, body mass and other information on the

athletes. “We are doing well. The only problem is the number. We were planning to finish all the data collection in about three to four days, but the way it is going, we may take a day or two longer to do it,” Dadi-Mahmud said. They also expressed gratitude to Mobil Producing Nigeria for initiating what they described as a programme worthy of emulation. After the introductory training, the students were subjected to general endurance and stretching exercises. By yesterday, they had graduated to techniques in relay baton exchange and drills on individual events. Sylvanus Linus was delighted to be training on a venue that the Super Eagles play their world Cup qualifiers. “I cannot believe that I am using the same venue that my role models (Super Eagles) use for matches. I am so excited,” he said as he took in the impressive ambience of the U. J Esuene Stadium.

Participants at the ongoing Mobil Training/Camping for secondary schools students in Calabar on Wednesday

Nestle to launch Kids’ Athletics Programme in six states By Olalekan Okusan FTER the take off of the A Nestlé-IAAF Kids’ Athletics Programme, there are plans by the financier of the initiative, Nestle Nigeria Plc, to take the exercise across six states. The states are Kwara, Imo, Kano, Delta, Gombe and Oyo. According to the Managing Director/ Chief Executive Officer, Nestle Nigeria Plc, Dharnesh Gordhon, the company remains committed to the development of grassroots sports in Nigeria. His words, “we firmly believe that sports is a wonderful platform not only to promote an active lifestyle for children, but also to learn important values such as honesty, teamwork, fair play, respect, adherence to rules, discipline, perseverance resilience and a strong sense of purpose. These are valuable

attributes that will help them excel in all aspects of their life in the long run, and prepare them for constantly evolving and dynamic world.” He added, “The Kids’ Athletics programme was developed because the participation of sport and physical activities among children are on the decline. The IAAF identified that the practice of sport in general was declining for several reasons, the decrease of physical activities in schools, children were spending more time in front of the television, and obesity was on the rise with the WHO identifying it as a worldwide epidemic. These negative trends consequently saw the health and bio-motor skills of children suffer greatly.” For five years, Nestle will fund the programme in partnership with the International Association of Athletics

Kids compete during inter-house sports meet. The Nestle/IAAF Kids’ Athletics Programme hopes to cater for this kind of pupils. Federations’ (IAAF). On the modality of the programme, Gordhon said, “the Kids’ Athletics is a programme that operates by engaging young people through exciting and cre-

ative means of practicing athletics. New exercises and an innovative organization enable children to discover basic and natural physical activities such as running, jumping and throwing.

The programme provides a platform where the children make the most of the beneficial practice of athletics, in terms of health, education, and self-fulfillment.” “Kids’ Athletics is aimed to improve the health and wellbeing of children through improved co-ordination and cognitive development, obesity prevention and increased social integration.” Nestlé’s support for Kids’ Athletics therefore complements the company’s Nestlé Healthy Kids Global Programme. This global programme aims to improve the Nutrition, Health and Wellness of school-age children through better eating, greater physical activity, and other key health measures such as hygiene,” he explained. Listing some of the objectives of the project, Gordhon said it is expected to make

athletics the number one participation sport in schools, as well as, encourage kids to do sports in general and athletics in particular and thus promote a balanced and healthy lifestyle. Others are to attract and sustain the potential sporting stars of tomorrow. On the possible impact of the exercise, he said, “the project is expected to expand the scope of athletics and athletics-related activities for children of primary school age, as well as identify and recruit young athletic talents from the first primary school years upwards. “The Nestlé-IAAF Kids’ Athletics is practical and easy to organise because, from the outset of the programme, the intention was to create an athletics system that could be implemented everywhere. A square of 50cm is enough to organise the Kids’ Athletics activities.”

Finalists emerge in Etisalat/FC Barcelona U-17 School Cup ROM the 16 teams that FFCstarted the maiden Etisalat Barcelona U-17 School Cup,

Analyst, Events and Sponsorship, Etisalat Nigeria, Ephraim Abiona (standing left); School Coach, Keke Senior High School, Adekunle Kamilu; School Team Manager, Keke Senior High School, Ojo Julius (standing right) with Keke Senior High School, after the team beat Akande Dahunsi Senior Memorial High School to qualify for the finals of the Etisalat FC Barcelona U-17 School Cup in Lagos on Wednesday.

two teams have emerged as finalists. The teams that were drawn from the six educational districts in Lagos State began hostilities a fortnight ago and tomorrow at Campos Mini Stadium in Lagos Island, Keke High School will tackle Anthony Village Senior High School in the epic final. But the road to the final was torrid for the teams as they

both fought hard to berth in the grand finale. Keke High School defeated Akande Dahunsi Senior Memorial High School, Ikoyi 2-1, while Anthony Village High School edged past Magbo Alade Senior Grammar School, Ibeju Lekki in a nail biting game that ended 1-0. The winner of the competition will get a cash prize of N1 million education grant, as well as a trip to the United Arab Emirates (UAE). Speaking after the hard-

fought semifinals, the Director, Brands and Communications, Etisalat Nigeria, Enitan Denloye, said the participating teams displayed exceptional skills, while also expressing satisfaction with the level of talent exhibited in the competition. He was confident that the competition would impact positively on the lives of the students, but he urged players and coaches of Akande Dahunsi Senior Memorial High School and Magbo

Alade Senior Grammar Schools to see the defeat in the semi-finals as a learning curve and a springboard to build on for better performances in the next edition of the competition. The tournament is designed to discover future talents for the country. For the third place match, Akande Dahunsi Senior Memorial High School, Ikoyi and Magbo Alade Senior Grammar School, Ibeju Lekki will compete before the final match.

SPORTS | 61

THE GUARDIAN, Friday, August 16, 2013

English Premiership Lambert confirms Bent medical at Fulham

Fellaini relief for Martinez VERTON Manager, Roberto Martinez is relieved that the buy-out clause in Marouane Fellaini’s contract expired at the end of July. The Belgium midfielder, along with team-mate Leighton Baines, has been linked with a move away from Goodison Park this summer, with both players reported targets of Manchester United Manager, David Moyes, who knows both well from his time with the Toffees. The transfer window does not close until 11pm on September 2 but Martinez, at his first briefing of the new season, said, “Marouane had a buy-out clause where it was very straightforward. If someone met that valuation, the club had no say. “That finished on July 31 so, you can imagine during that period everyone was a bit expectant about what would happen. Once that date went, you just focus on working for the next season. “I’m not concerned at all at the moment (about players leaving). The window is open and until it closes you’re going to get speculation, you’re going to get a lot of talk, not just at Everton. It’s the norm. Martinez is still in the market for new signings himself, having brought Gerard Deulofeu and former Wigan trio Joel Robles, Antolin Alcaraz and Arouna Kone to the club this summer. But he revealed the form of teenagers Ross Barkley and John Stones has made him even more confident about the squad he already has. “I’ve been very impressed

with the youngsters,” the former Wigan boss said. Ross Barkley and John Stones have really surprised me. I knew they had a fantastic future, but what they’ve got is a very special present, and that excites me. “You always need to keep looking to try to help the players we’ve got at the club but we’re not looking for a specific number. If we don’t bring anyone in, I’ll be happy.” Martinez was excited by the performances of Baines and Phil Jagielka in England’s victory over Scotland on Wednesday night. Left-back Baines played the full 90 minutes and set up the deciding goal for Rickie Lambert in England’s 3-2 win at Wembley while centre-back Jagielka was replaced late on. Everton were also represented in the Scotland side, with midfielder, Steven Naismith a late substitute. Martinez will take charge of his first competitive Everton game away at Norwich tomorrow, and he said: “I thought it was one of the best friendlies that I’ve seen for a long time at international level. “From my point of view I was so impressed with the roles of Phil and Leighton. They play with a real swagger, real composure. “I thought Leighton Baines was really influential in the second half. I saw him enjoying his football, getting forward and in great positions, and he had a massive effect on the winning goal. “Phil Jagielka looks a proper veteran playing for England and that gives you a sense of composure.”

STON Villa Manager, Paul A Lambert has confirmed striker, Darren Bent is undergoing a medical at Fulham with a view to a season-long loan deal. Crystal Palace had seemingly been on the verge of signing the 29-year-old until Eagles manager Ian Holloway announced that Bent had chosen Craven Cottage over Selhurst Park. Fulham boss, Martin Jol was reticent to comment in detail during his briefing, but Lambert confirmed a deal with the intention of it becoming permanent next summer - is close. “He’s just away down to Fulham,” said the Villa boss. “I think it’s well-documented now that he’s down there having a medical and that’s the last I’ve heard.” Jol had earlier issued a cautious response to the suggestion that Fulham had signed Bent. “I don’t know what’s happening. Darren’s probably

Fellaini

Rodgers wants end to Suarez saga IVERPOOL Manager, Ldraw Brendan Rodgers wants to a line under the Luis Suarez saga and insists he will not talk about the striker until he is available for selection again. The summer has been dominated by speculation about the Uruguay international’s future, with Arsenal having two bids rejected and comments from the player about wanting to leave resulting in him being told to train alone.

Suarez is suspended for the first six matches of the new season as his 10-game ban for biting Chelsea’s Branislav Ivanovic in April is carried over. Liverpool’s principal owner, John Henry is adamant he will not sell the striker so, even if he remains at Anfield beyond the end of the current transfer window, the 26-year-old cannot be picked until the end of September. “For me Luis Suarez is very

simple. I will start off by saying there has been so much written and said about Luis over the last few months,” said Rodgers. “From our perspective there is a standpoint from the club and myself that has not changed. “What I want to concentrate on is the players that are available for this weekend so, I won’t be speaking any more about Luis Suarez until he is available. I don’t really want to answer any

doing his own thing. We’re not sure about it,” the Fulham boss said. “We don’t speculate on players and can only give an answer when a deal is finalised. We’ll see in the next day or two.” Bent swapped Sunderland for Villa for £24million in 2011, but fell out of favour with Lambert last season following the emergence of Christian Benteke. “We need quality up front and we’re trying to get someone in that position in the next week. We need some pace up front,” Jol said. Jol, who refused to comment on his interest in Tottenham midfielder, Scott Parker, took a swipe at Holloway for stating that former England marksman Bent had agreed to join Fulham. “People were telling me yesterday that he was having a medical at Crystal Palace. That is changing every day,” Jol said. “I thought yesterday that he was going to Ian Holloway. It’s tough in the Premier League. “I’m not sure if other managers should say things like that, because we are not 100 per cent sure about any player and I have a few players on the list. “Maybe some geezer told him he was coming to us. Maybe he’s right, maybe not. We’ll see in the next day.” Jol would be happy to keep Norway full-back, John Arne Riise, who has fallen behind Kieran Richardson in the pecking order, if he fails to secure a move away from Craven Cottage. “John is a fantastic player and deserves to play and that was the only conversation we had,” Jol said.

THE GUARDIAN, Friday, August 16, 2013

GolfWeekly

Uloma Mbuko teeing off from the 10th tee during round 1 at the 2012 Fourqueux Ladies Open in Fourqueux France PHOTO: DOGLEGMEDIA.COM

‘I’m out to inspire other ladies, strengthen my game, not challenge men’ Stories by Eno-Abasi Sunday UST when many thought Jsettling that she was content with down as a youth development coach, Abujabased Uloma Mbuko, has filled her qualifications to join the Professional Golfers’ Association of Nigeria (PGAN). There is no ladies’ golf tour in the country hence the decision by Mbuko, who is a member of the Ladies European Tour and the PGA South Africa, to bid to join the men’s folk in playing the game professionally. If admitted, she would be the first lady golfer to play professionally in the country. However, she was quick to point that she was taking the step not necessarily to make history or challenge the men, but to inspire other ladies, and strengthen her game in order to have an edge over her peers in ladies competition when she competes internationally. “Applying to play professionally in Nigeria does not mean that one is not a pro elsewhere. Right now, I am a member of the Ladies European Tour and the PGA South Africa, so I thought it would be nice to play professionally within the country thereby associating with my

people and not just play on the international circuit, even though I don’t think up till now they have made provisions for the ladies in the PGAN,” she told The Guardian in an interview. “But I know my admission would be a step in the right direction because it is not every willing lady that has the opportunity to go abroad and slug it out with her peers. I hope opportunities begin to open up for ladies to acquire this training so that the PGAN would also work towards considering more lady pro golfers in their ranks. That is why I have applied and hope that more ladies will also do that in the months and years ahead. Asked if she was applying to join the PGAN only to end up as a teaching pro, who would be saddled with youth development programmes and sundry stuffs, she quipped, “if I am trying to become a teaching pro then I don’t need the PGAN to do that because I already have the qualification from South Africa, in view of the fact that our standards here are very low. I intend to compete once my application is favourably considered and I am granted membership of PGAN. “However, I have to say that

my bidding to join the PGAN is not because I want to challenge the men as most of them think. Instead, it is largely to inspire younger Nigerian ladies and get them to see that there is future for them in golf just as it is for their male counterparts. Secondly, she wants to use the platform as a medium to strengthen her game so that squaring up against ladies abroad would be akin to a stroll in the park. “I really want to use the medium of

playing with men as a platform for serious practice. This is because if I can compete favourably with men, who I expect give me extra challenge, then I would have little or no hardtime competing with fellow lady golfers. Secretary General of the PGAN, Jide Lamidi, confirmed to The Guardian that Mbuko has applied to join the group, but would have to wait for the executive committee to meet and decide her fate. “Yes Uloma Mbuko has

applied to the PGAN, but the executive committee is yet to meet after getting some documents from her. Until the meeting takes place, nothing can be done about the documents she has submitted. Asked when the exco was meeting, he said it was not clear yet, “but the truth is that it won’t be wise for the exco to meet simply for the purposes of taking a decision on the documents she has submitted. He, however, added that part

of what would be discussed when the body meets would be to establish whether Mbuko’s qualification were enough to earn her a PGAN Tour card. If that is established, then her format of play and her stand among pros in Nigeria.” For over a decade, Mbuko was one of the leading amateur lady players in the Nigerian circuit. In the process, she won a groundswell of Nigeria ladies open titles among others.

Adeyemo, Nule to trade swings at Software Solutions invitational tourney RESIDENT of Ladies Golfers P Association of Nigeria (LGAN) Joy Nule, immediate past captain of Ikeja Golf Club, Tunji Adeyemo and former lady captain of the club, Evelyn Oyome are some of those that have confirmed participation in the second Software Solutions Limited (SSL) Invitational Golf Tournament. Others billed to exchange swings at the tourney slated for the 9-hole Ikeja Golf Club, are Diana Okah, Moses Ojo of Ibadan Golf Club as Gabriel EssienAkpan of Ibom Golf Club.

Tournament Coordinator and former Lady Captain of the Club, Zulu Omo-Ikerodah, told The Guardian yesterday that all was set to host a successful tourney, which is expected to have over 250 participants in attendance. She assured club members, invited and sponsors guests as well as invited professional players of a splendid time, which tees off on Tuesday, August 20. According to sponsors, apart from the tourney providing an atmosphere for attendees to have fun and keep fit, is also aimed at bringing together

world-class information technology solution providers, business partners and their clients in a relaxed environment. Invited professional would lead as they begin their quest for honours on Tuesday, August 20th, while invited ladies from Dolphin Golf Club, Ikoyi Club 1938, Sagamu Golf Club, Ibadan Golf Club, would have their way the following day, Wednesday, August 21. Day One of contest for gentlemen golfers will follow this. And they will be joined in action by invited ladies from IBB Golf and Country Club,

Abuja, Benin Golf Club, Port Harcourt Club (golf section) and Ibori Golf and Country Club, Asaba. The grand finale of the event comes up on Saturday August 24. Apart from being men’s Day Two, it will also feature a presentation dinner at the club house, where winners of the week-long tourney would be presented with their trophies and prizes. Partnering SSL in the tournament are EiAlan Construction Nigeria Ltd, Provast Limited, VACC Limited, Panther Investment and Alan Caray Limited.

GOLFWEEKLY

THE GUARDIAN, Friday, August 16, 2013

Title sponsor steps up for Woods’ event IGER Woods’ annual limT ited-field tournament that benefits his foundation has landed a title sponsor in Northwestern Mutual. The Tiger Woods Foundation announced that the tournament, now in its 15th year, will be called the Northwestern Mutual World Challenge, with an 18-player field that includes Woods The event will be held Dec. 5-8, at Sherwood Country Club in Thousand Oaks, California, and will feature defending champion Graeme McDowell and Rory McIlroy. The tournament, which offers worldranking points but is considered unofficial, will announce its full field at a later date. Last year, Northwestern Mutual served as a presenting sponsor as the tournament was unable to secure a title sponsor following the departure of Chevron, which had served in that role for four years. Woods put up his own money, believed to be the entire purse of $4 million, to bridge the financial gap

and ensure the tournament was played. “What’s important is that if it wasn’t for this tournament, we wouldn’t have the success with the foundation,” Woods said at last year’s tournament. “The Learning Center (in nearby Orange County) would not have happened. We wouldn’t have gained the awareness that we have now. There have been so many kids that we have helped just because of this event. It’s important to me, to the foundation. This is what got us on the map.’’ The World Challenge tournament began in 1999 and was inspired in part by Woods’ late father, Earl. Woods’ foundation also benefits from the AT&T National in Washington, D.C., and the Deutsche Bank Championship outside Boston. Woods won the World Challenge in 2011 and the AT&T in 2012, victories that were worth more than $1 million each. He has contributed more than $14 million of his prize money for those events.

Mullen victorious on England debut EVON golfer, Jimmy D Mullen, made a winning start on his England debut as he beat Ireland’s Gary Hurley in the singles at Ganton on Wednesday. The 19-year-old, who made the cut at The Open last month, showed his class to clinch a 4&2 victory to help England beat Ireland 8-7. In the other match on the opening day, Scotland beat Wales 9-5-5.5. Mullen was one of five new England caps for the Home

Westwood

International series, which continued yesterday and today. Yorkshire’s Nick Marsh, Kent’s Michael Saunders, Northamptonshire’s Ryan Evans and Lancashire’s Paul Howard also made their England debuts. A number of England regulars - including amateur champion Garrick Porteous - are unavailable as they are competing in the US Amateur Championship the same week.

European Tour denies PGA Tour takeover HE chief executive of golf’s T European Tour, George O’Grady, yesterday dismissed reports the organisation could be bought out by its American counterpart the PGA Tour. Reports claimed the U.S.based PGA Tour wanted to take advantage of the current Eurozone financial crisis by launching a takeover of its European equivalent, which is based in England. “The notion that the PGA Tour is somehow bidding to buy The European Tour is incorrect,” the European Tour’s chief operating officer Keith Waters said in a statement. “The European Tour has collaborated with the PGA Tour and all other members of the

International Federation of PGA Tours on many ventures since we worked together on the formation of the World Golf Championships in 1999,” added Europe’s chief executive George O’Grady. “This collaboration will continue.” The European Tour hosts well-established tournaments all over the world, including in the lucrative Asian market. An acquisition of the European Tour would help the PGA Tour tap into potentially money-spinning countries such as China. But O’Grady poured cold water on the rumors, reaffirming the European Tour’s commitment to hosting events across the globe.

“At this time when many of our leading members are also members of the PGA Tour it is vital that we continue to work together to ensure the progression of tournament golf throughout the world,” continued O’Grady. “Over the past two weeks, 35 European Tour members played in the WGC Bridgestone Invitational while 58 competed in the US PGA Championship. “We are delighted that our Members continue to fly the flag for the European Tour around the world, which not only gives them the opportunity to progress their individual careers but ourselves the chance to explore opportunities to our mutual benefit.”

PGA Tour commissioner Tim Finchem, also denied the reports, but did say collaboration between the two bodies could increase revenue for the sport. “Certain news reports today have indicated that the PGA Tour has made an offer to acquire the European Tour,” he said in a statement. “Those reports are inaccurate. “However, as I have stated publicly on several occasions, the integration of professional golf can create additional value for our players, spon-

sors and fans. “Such integration has been ongoing since 1994, with the founding of the International Federation of PGA Tours, and has led to the establishment of the World Golf Championships in 1999 as well as the World Cup as a federation-sanctioned event. “More recently, all the major golf bodies around the world worked together to bring golf back to the Olympic Games.” The European Tour, founded in 1972, has recently seen top golfers like British duo Rory

At this time when many of our leading members are also members of the PGA Tour it is vital that we continue to work together to ensure the progression of tournament golf throughout the world

McIlroy and Lee Westwood head across the Atlantic to play on the more lucrative PGA Tour. The two tours jointly run the Ryder Cup, a biennial competition between the U.S. and Europe. Graeme McDowell, a member of three European Ryder Cup teams who plays on the PGA Tour, has spoken out against a takeover, saying it could damage the Ryder Cup. “If PGA Tour bought European Tour things like Ryder Cup rivalry would be gone,” the 2010 PGA Championship winner said via his official Twitter account. “Yes our top players play mostly PGA but maintain Euro identity.”

TheGuardian

Friday, August 16, 2013

Conscience, Nurtured by Truth

By Ezukuse Nkemchor Jeremiah REMEMBER when I was a kid; I can’t remember Iwho precisely how old I was then but I was still a kid had started putting letters together to produce words of my own creation and to identify and read other group of letters wherever I found them. There was this particular day I went to a provision store close to my parents’ house (in the village, of course) and I saw an inscription written above the door leading to the shop: “No credit today, but come tomorrow.’’ Why ‘’tomorrow?’’ Though I was still a kid, it didn’t take me long to decipher its latent meaning. ‘’Tomorrow’’ seems to be the mythical ‘’time’’ that solves and or clarifies the moment, which the future must always look forward to. “Tomorrow” is when the dawn has come following a dark night. Well, we may ask: When does ‘’tomorrow’’ begin? If it begins, when does it end? Or does it end at all when it eventually comes? One is wont to ask these questions following a series of events that have become our daily worries as a nation, but of greater significance to us as youth. Of course, we have been asking questions pertaining to the mirage of worries that bemoan us, and we have continually been placing the panacea in the hands of ‘’tomorrow’’. Our visions and aspirations seem not for today, but for ‘’tomorrow.’’ We have been told time without number that ‘’the youths are leaders of tomorrow.’’ But have we asked those that have said it to us when does our ‘’tomorrow’’ begin? Events undertaken and still being taken by those that have kept saying it to us seem to clearly indicate that the ‘’tomorrow’’ they claim belongs to us is something the old are not ready to relinquish. We may ask, the present moment, which time, which day, which generation does it belong to? The old, or the youth? If we must be fair to the future generations, we have to take these questions seriously, otherwise, very soon we may be accused of ‘’occupying’’ the ‘’tomorrow’’ of the youths yet to come. They will ask the same questions which we now direct to the old. But we must ask if it is really the case that the old have failed the youth, or the youth have failed themselves? Or it is the case that the youths lack the wherewithal, the resources to wrestle their ‘’tomorrow’’ off the hands of the old, who seem to bestride the length and breadth of the said ‘’tomorrow?’’ Or is it that the youths of our time simply lack the zeal, the determination and dexterity our founding fathers deployed in wrestling their ‘’tomorrow’’ off the hands of foreign domination and colonialism? Perhaps we could rationalise the difference and factors of their time and ours, however, what remains intractable is that our founding fathers demanded and fought for their ‘’tomorrow’’ and they got

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Youths: When is our ‘tomorrow?’ it. As youths we may do well to ask if we are demanding for our ‘’tomorrow?’’ Or have we chosen to delude ourselves that ‘’ tomorrow’’ will always come? We have to be careful that we do not idle our ‘’tomorrow’’ away because we do not just owe it to ourselves alone, but to posterity. Posterity will judge us not by our actions alone, but our inactions. It will not suffice to say, by way of rationalising, that we were not allowed to demand and lay claim to our ‘’tomorrow’’ by those who have lived their own ‘’tomorrow’’ in their youth. Already, we are seeing the consequences of allowing the old to rule our ‘’tomorrow’’. Our youth in power are serving the interests of the old. These youths in question dance to the tune of their godfathers who they rationalise put them there in the first place. Thus, even when we have some youths in the corridors of power, they are stuck to the old paradigm of doing things which unfortunately are detrimental to the ‘’tomorrow’’ of our today and posterity. Just recently we were dumbfounded when some senators deemed it fit to slap our face by deliberating on an issue that we thought belonged to the days of yore when amorous men found sexual pleasure in the hands of underage children with the belief that the sampling of such unripe lass rejuvenates their old and tired blood. We may ask ourselves again, which tomorrow belongs to an underage, physically and sexually immature girl that is given away to a man that may be as old as her father or even grandfather? Are we as youths being alert to protect ourselves and the generation that is to follow by demanding for our ‘’tomorrow?’’ It seems we fail to understand the dynamics of power. It seems we fail to appreciate the strength of our voice. It seems we undermine the logic that requires no computation that the strength of any nation lies in its active

population. We may ask ourselves again and again: To what or whom do we owe our ineptitude? Demanding for our tomorrow does not only or necessarily consist in being in the corridors of power (we may not all find ourselves in that corridor), but subsists in demanding accountability, transparency, opportunity, equity and fairness by those who represent us or who are in the corridors of power. Our demanding of our ‘’tomorrow’’ connotes that we should always position ourselves in such a way that we are never sidelined when it comes to decision taken at the centre or at the grassroots. It requires agitating where agitation is required. It requires consultation where consultation is needed, and it requires lobbying where lobbying suffices. Our actions should be confident and fear-inspiring to our leaders in such a way that whatever action they intend to take, they will first of all have to ask: How will our youths take this? Is it to their own interest? We need not remind ourselves that whatever that is consider to be of interest to the youth automatically translates to the interest of the greater number. In demanding for our ‘’tomorrow’’ we must do away with the mentality of fighting for the sake of ‘’settlement’’. Perhaps this has been our worst bane. Our founding fathers did not shortchange their ‘’tomorrow’’ by asking the colonial masters for crumbs. They knew what they wanted and their message was precise and clear. Some of our once promising youths have derailed and have lost their voice in speaking out against those things they once abhorred. Instead of using their position(s) to consolidate and pursue with vigour those visions and dreams they once had for our ‘’tomorrow’’, they have become accomplices to the old that are stealing our ‘’tomorrow’’. This set of youth who has been inducted into the old ritual of the old paradigm, unfortunately,

has become model for most of our youths who build their aspirations- aspirations geared toward selfish ends and parochialism. Selfish and parochial underpinnings seem to characterise the motive behind the way some, if not most of our youths confront challenges they perceive as unjust. Thus we have various militant groups like MEND, Boko Haram whose fight against the powers that be, cannot be said to represent the aspirations of the majority of the Nigerian youths. Whereas some schools of thought hold (and could be rightly so), that the activities of the dreaded militant groups we have in our country today stemmed from the ‘’eating’’ of the ‘’tomorrow’’ that belongs to the youth of today by the old and their cronies, we must maintain that as youths, we need not shed any blood to demand and implement our ‘’tomorrow’’. We need not wipe the innocent, nor kill the foreigner to drive home our point. We have non-violent options that if carefully and efficiently organised and utilised, we can have that which we ask. Some options were adopted in the past that yielded positive results. Lobbying and in some cases, demonstration and protest were applied in the past to seek redress and upturn decisions considered to be inimical to the majority of our people. Those options can be effectively brought to bear to demand from our leaders our very ‘’tomorrow’’. We can do better as youths in demanding of our ‘’tomorrow’’ when we are more proactive and pragmatic; when we need not necessarily wait to always react instead of engaging. We can call our representatives and leaders to give us account of their stewardship and can even make outright demand from our leaders to execute programmes and policies that are geared toward development and prosperity. We can ask and demand for explanations why some important projects are abandoned. We can ask questions and get results. We can do so only if we are true to ourselves and course. We have been asking questions pertaining to our ‘’tomorrow’’. We should, however, realise that questions in themselves may not always suffice. I think in our case, questions should be seen as mere preambles, means to an end and not end in itself. We need co-ordinated and thought-out plans and execution of such plans if we must realise and attain our ‘’tomorrow’’. Some youths are already at the twilight of the ‘’tomorrow’’ they await. But it is never too late to make amends and correct the mistakes of our past. We need not tarry anymore. J.F. Kennedy once observed, ‘procrastination is the thief of time’’. Our ‘’tomorrow’’ is now! • Jeremiah, B.A Philosophy, University of Benin (08060254220)

Transformation Agenda: Nigeria Electricity Regulatory Commission on course By Comrade Nelson Omenugha T is in nature of things that change is the only thing that is constant. While positive and negative changes abound, it takes uncommon courage, focus and sound mind to effect the desired positive changes or better still put; transformation. It even takes more of these to bring transformation where the sector in question is the foundation on which other sectors of the economy lie; and that on which the public demand miracle and magic to be done. This is usually the case, when the person saddled with such responsibility is a known social crusader and a policy reformer. A gentleman and humble scholar of conviction, Dr Sam Amadi, has proven to be equal to the task as he has through the formulation and implementation of Electricity investors’ and customers’ friendly policies, independently regulated and transforming Power sector. As independent electricity regulating umpire and chief executive of Nigeria Electricity Regulatory Commission (NERC), he has deployed his wealth of experience, expertise and international contacts to the attainment of safe, secured, reliable, adequate and affordable electricity in Nigeria. He has redefined leadership and administration with his ability in striking mature balance between Electricity investors and customers on one hand and then Government and other Electricity Stakeholders on the other hand. The commission, headed by Sam Amadi, was inaugurated on December 22, 2010, by President Goodluck Jonathan to deliver on power sector reform roadmap. The commissioners were drawn from the six geo-political zones of the country. An unassuming Amadi has been able to effect positive changes in carriage, mannerism, administration, public relations and overall implementation of policies in Nigeria Electricity Regulatory Commission and

power industry. Armed with the core values of leadership, professionalism, teamwork and good governance, NERC under the eagle eyes of Amadi has been able to initiate and accomplish the following but not limited to: • Removal of huddles that previously discouraged investors from investing their resources in the sector. The electricity market is now competitive and attractive with several local and foreign operators seeking to invest. He has played on the selections of these operators strictly on and by market rules. • Through his “Electricity consumers are king” administrative philosophy, NERC has been able to consistently and adequately hold consumers’ forum geared at knowing and addressing issues that electricity consumers express. • NERC has worked and is still working with

relevant institutions, including Ministry of Power and Power Holding of Nigeria (PHCN), to ensure adequate new meters are supplied to consumers without difficulty. This has check-mated the crazy bill syndromes prevalent in electricity industry. CAPMI has also given room for pre-paid meters to be available on demand in every nook and cranny of the nation. • NERC under Harvard-trained Amadi has shown uncommon courage and transparency by declaring as illegal for new electricity customer to pay connection fees and has provided feedback mechanism for defaulters’ case report to the commission. • NERC under Amadi, in total demonstration and operation of transparency, was the leading institution that complied with the Freedom of Information Act. NERC is ever ready and has demonstrated operation of open door policy by making her information

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and proceedings available to Press and civil societies for scrutiny. This is an uncommon action. • NERC has ensured that electricity consumers pay fixed charges once a month irrespective of number of times prepaid meter is recharged. This is unlike in the past where electricity consumers were extorted and intimidated to pay twice and even thrice the electricity charges per month; and which in most cases, the amount varies. One can really go on and on with litany of uncommon sanity brought in the Power system by NERC under Amadi. Indeed and in sincerity, Nigerian Electricity Regulatory Commission under Amadi has brought salvation to electricity stakeholder – consumers, investors, government, affiliated institutions etc. December 22, 2013, will mark three years of administration of NERC by the present Commissioners led by Amadi. It is a period for review on how far NERC has gone with the implementation of her mandate with the view of coming up with further strategy to deliver. It is a period for enumeration of challenges and stock-taking which will serve as a benchmark for future deliberation on Power reform roadmap. Indeed, it will be a period for sober reflection on how far we, as a Nation, have gone in the realization of our aspiration for safe, adequate, reliable and affordable electricity. This is not the time to condemn anyone or the government for any perceived shortcomings in power sector in the past. It is time to come up with detailed ideas, ways and strategies on how to ensure electricity on demand for all. • Omenugha is a former president, Students’ Union Government, UNIZIK and a youth corps member in the office of the chairman, NERC, Abuja.