Monday 13th June 2016

Ekwueme, Adebanjo, Others Ask Buhari to Implement National Conference Report Insist on restructuring of Nigeria

Christopher Isiguzo in Enugu Notable Nigerians, including Second Republic Vice-President, Dr. Alex Ekwueme, Yoruba

leader, Ayo Adebanjo, former Minister of Information, Jerry Gana and former Governors of Anambra State, Chukwuemeka Ezeife and Peter Obi, yesterday

in Enugu asked President Muhammadu Buhari to commence the immediate implementation of the report of the 2014 National Conference.

They insisted that doing that would go a long way in addressing the myriads of problems confronting the country, adding that the

current protests and demands for separation by various groups in the country, as well as other socio-economic crises could be reduced by

half if the national conference report was considered and implemented.

Continued on page 8

June 12, 1993: Immortalise Abiola, Ajimobi, others Urge Buhari… Page 8 Monday 13 June, 2016 Vol 21. No 7718. Price: N250

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Challenged CBN Releases Flexible Forex Guidelines This Week Says banks' deposits decline by N1.02tn, bad loans increase to 10.1% Industry assets now at N27.43tn Banks liquidity ratio above limit

James Emejo in Abuja, Obinna Chima in Lagos Any time this week, which analysts believe may be Friday, when the Central Bank of Nigeria usually takes bids from authorised dealers of foreign exchange, the apex bank will unveil its much awaited guidelines on flexible foreign exchange regime.

This is coming after two weeks of intensive consultations with major stakeholders, including investors, bankers, fund managers and money market operators in a bid to strike an equilibrium and produce a workable policy that will bring price stability to the naira.

Continued on page 9

Militancy: FG, N’Delta Avengers Make Contacts

MEND wades in, appoints Ajumogobia, others to negotiate Bolaji Adebiyi and Ejiofor Alike Prospects for peace in the troubled oil-rich Niger Delta region brightened at the weekend as the federal government, using back channel communications, may

have established contacts with the militant group, the Niger Delta Avengers, whose violent activities had shut in about 800,000 bpd of the country’s crude oil production.

Continued on page 9

THE IYALODE OF REMOLAND! Globe Motors Rolls-out Hyundai, BEHOLD L-R: Chairman, Tanus Communications, Dr.Yemi Ogunbiyi; Akarigbo of Remo, Oba Michael Sonariwo; Celebrant/the new of Remoland, Mrs. Folashade Ogunbiyi, and her brother, the Elepe of Epe, Oba Adewale Osiberu, at the 70th Birthday Higer, Globe Brands… Page 8 Iyalode and the installation of Mrs. Ogunbiyi as the Iyalode of Remoland, in Sagamu, Ogun State… weekend dan ukana

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MONDAY, JUNE 13, 2016 • T H I S D AY

PAGE EIGHT

June 12, 1993: Immortalise Abiola, Ajimobi, others Urge Buhari Gboyega Akinsanmi in Lagos andSheriff Balogun inAbeokuta Relations, friends and supporters of the late presumed winner of the 12 June, 1993 presidential election, Chief Moshood Abiola, yesterday commemorated the 23rd anniversary of the election reputed to be the freest and fairest in the nation’s history, but annulled by the then military president, Ibrahim Babangida.

Commemorators, including Abiola’s family and the Afenifere Renewal Group (ARG) called for the official release of the annulled election results, declaration of Abiola as the winner, his recognition as president and payment of all entitlements due to him as president to his family.

Abiola, the presidential candidate of the defunct Social Democratic Party (SDP), was coasting home to victory against his main challenger, Bashir Tofa of the National Republican Convention (NRC), when the Prof. Humphrey Nwosu-led National Electoral Commission (NEC) abruptly stopped the announcements of the results.

Although the electoral commission had announced the results of 14 out of the 19 states before the process was aborted, Babangida eventually cancelled the entire process on 22 June, 1993, sparking off a nationwide protest that saw him out of office in August 1993.

Gen. Sani Abacha, who took over from Babangida, refused to

disannul the election, but rather took Abiola into detention. The presumed winner of the election never came out of detention and died on 7 July, 1998 the day he was scheduled to be released by the military government of Gen. Abdulsalami Abubakar.

The annulled election, regarded as the nation’s symbol of democracy by many, has been commemorated every 12 June since 1994 by Abiola’s supporters, friends and relations.

Yesterday, the family asked the federal government to declare Abiola as the official winner of the election and pay all entitlements due to him as president to the family. His younger brother, Muritala Abiola, made the request in Abeokuta, the Ogun State capital.

He said if the head of the Interim National Government (ING), Chief Ernest Shonekan, who held the position for only six months, still enjoys the perks of a former president, Abiola deserved even much more for dying for the enthronement of democracy in the country.

Muritala said: "First, we want the federal government to declare June 12 as democracy day. They should do even more than that.

MKO was killed because of the election he won. It is you journalists or the Nigerian government that is calling him the acclaimed winner. He is not acclaimed winner, they should confirm him as slain president of Nigeria.”

He, however, commended

the Ogun State government for keeping Abiola’s memory alive.

Berating the state government for not declaring Monday, 13 June, 2016, a work-free day since this year's 12 June fell on a Sunday, Muritala said it was a negation of the law by the Ogun State House of Assembly declaring June 12 as a public holiday.

He, however, appealed to the state government to return the school established by the late Abiola, Salawu Abiola Comprehensive High School, Osiele, Abeokuta, to the family to administer.

Ogun State Governor Ibikunle Amosun, who was represented by his deputy, Yetunde Onanuga, said everyone knew that Abiola was the adjudged winner of the 12 June, 1993 presidential election but was denied the chance to become the president.

He described him as the hero of the nation's democracy. "We have been organising the democracy day walk and identifying with the Abiola family for the past five years that this administration has been in government,” he said.

Pro-democracy Leaders Demand Restructuring of Nigeria In Lagos, pro-democracy leaders called on President Muhammadu Buhari to initiate the process of restructuring Nigeria to end the inequality and injustice that had characterised the country’s federal structure.

The pro-democracy actors, who

converged on LTV 8 Complex, Agidingbi, also demanded that Buhari should declare Abiola as the elected president of Nigeria.

The leaders that made the demands included Lagos State Governor Akinwunmi Ambode, Convener of the Coalition of Democrats for Electoral Reforms (CODER) Ayo Opadokun, and a chieftain of the National Democratic Coalition (NADECO), Rear Admiral Ndubuisi Kanu (rtd), among others.

At an event organised by the Lagos State Office of Civic Engagement, Opadokun said Nigeria would not get out of the woods if it did not restructure its skewed federal structure. “June 12 will continue to be relevant until we end inequality and unfairness in our federation,” he said.

He said it was unfortunate that past presidents, including former President Olusegun Obasanjo, despite being a beneficiary of the June 12 struggle, refused to recognise Abiola as the winner of the election. “Buhari should declare him the elected president of Nigeria,” Opadokun said.

Specifically, he demanded: “Abiola’s photograph should be placed where the photographs of past leaders that governed Nigeria are placed. A national monument should be erected in his honour.

The federal government cheated MKO Abiola. There should be restitution for him.”

Ambode, who was represented by the Secretary to the State Government Olatunji Bello, said June 12 was a day that must be remembered always, admonishing

Nigerians to step up support for the quest for the restructuring of the country.

He said: “What we owe Nigeria today is nothing but true federalism.

For us to achieve true federalism, we have to work hard for it. We still have a long way to go. If you want to live by Abiola’s memory, if you want to honour him, we owe him a duty to ensure that we install a viable democracy “That viable democracy can only be installed if we have true federalism which we are presently not practising. That is very important. Lagos has everything to stand by its own.

We run the police. We have the most viable infrastructure in the whole country. Yet, we are not given what we deserve.”

Kanu, who is currently the National Chairman of NADECO, lamented that Nigerians were still struggling to build a country of their dream, saying the violence in the Niger Delta and the South-east would persist till a workable federal structure was built.

“We should brace up and be prepared. Prayers will not solve the problem. We have to get back to a true federal Nigeria. If not, we should be prepared because what we are seeing is just a child's play.

I have not lost faith in Nigeria,” he said.

Oyo Declares Monday Public Holiday Meanwhile, the Oyo State Governor Abiola Ajimobi has declared today, June

13, as a public holiday in commemoration of the annulment of the June 12, 1993 presidential election.

A statement by the Special Adviser, Communication and Strategy to the Governor, Mr. Yomi Layinka, conveyed the governor’s decision yesterday.

“12 June remains a watershed in the history of the country, because of the significance of the day in the nation’s democratic journey, having broken all ethnic and religious barriers,” the governor said, adding: “The annulled election is yet to be matched in terms of freeness, fairness, transparency, openness and widespread acceptability.”

Stating that Abiola laid down his life for democracy to thrive in the country, Ajimobi urged the federal government to immortalise the presumed winner of the election.

He said: “That the symbol of the annulled election, Chief MKO Abiola, opted to pay the supreme price to defend his mandate has deepened democracy and the price he paid is what the comfort the political leaders are enjoying up till today.

“I want to, once again, urge the federal government to immortalise and officially recognise Abiola as a former president of the Federal Republic of Nigeria and to confer on him the highest honour in the land befitting of a former president.”

Globe Motors Roll-out Hyundai, Higer, Globe Brands An indigenous auto company, Globe Motors, is set to roll-out the first line of vehicles it assembled in its new automobile assembly plant in Lagos next month.

Chairman of Globe Motors Holdings (Nig.) Limited, Mr. William Anumudu, who dropped the hint yesterday, added that three brands, Higer, Hyundai and Globe, would be in the first train from the assembly plant that they expect would cost over $150 million on completion.

He said: “We are going to roll out our first set of vehicles in July 2016 and we will produce Hyundai, Higer vehicles and Globe brand. We have made a lot of investments and we

believe on completion of the project, it will be worth over $150 million.”

He said the plant would produce, in its first phase, 6,000 vehicles per annum and that on completion, it would produce a minimum of 40,000 vehicles per annum.

The vehicles from the plant would be in various segments like commercial, passenger vehicles, low, medium and high capacity vehicles, SUV and Pickups. There will also be light and heavy duty trucks.

Anumudu said some of the SKDs were already in the country and that they had made a lot of progress, adding that the facility

would create 3,500 direct jobs for both local and expatriate workers. He said that there would be a lot of indirect jobs on account of this.

He said the worst days of the nation’s economy were over and that with a favourable foreign exchange rate, forex would be available to serious investors.

To ensure easy sales of these vehicles even outside the country, he said: “We are already talking with some motor vehicle dealerships along the West African corridor and we hope to develop dealership network.

“We will take advantage of the ECOWAS common tariff in creating the dealership network

along the West African corridor.”

Anumudu said they initially opposed the automotive policy but that they later realised its importance, saying: “We realised that it was the only viable road for Nigeria’s economic development. It is a 10-year development plan and there are milestones. We are satisfied with it and that is why we have keyed into it.

“This is for serious-minded people in the auto business. This is a policy of the government of Nigeria and as patriotic corporate citizens we have keyed into it."

On funding, he said: “We have got a lot of assistance from Nigerian banks. We have

also keyed into the Real Sector Support Fund of the Federal Government of Nigeria, an intervention fund that is administered by the Central Bank of Nigeria. We have received good response to our request for funding.”

On the development of the assembly plant, he said in 2013, they acquired 10 hectares of prime real estate along the Lekki corridor and invested a lot of money in the development of infrastructure.

As development of the plant progressed, he said they invited the Director General, National Automotive Design and Development Council (NADDC),

Mr. Aminu Jalal, and his team to conduct a joint inspection of the facility with officials of the Federal Ministry of Finance, Budget Office, Customs, and that thereafter, these officials made several visits to the plant.

In February, last year, the federal government issued Globe Motors recognised status as vehicle assemblers and they proceeded to sign agreements with Original Equipment Manufacturers (OEMs) in South Korea and China.

The plant, he said, would begin with the assembly of semi knocked down (SKD) parts before moving on to completely knock down (CKD) parts.

was need to urgently address the high cost of governance in the country, insisting that any governor who said he could not pay salary should give way to other persons with better ideas.

Ezeife, who also received the award of “Igbo Peoples General,” stated that the 2014 national conference report recommended additional 18 states to make for a 48 statestructure in order to address some inequalities created by the military.

Highlight of the event was the award of “Liberator” to the detained leader of IPOB, Nnamdi Kanu, by the IYM, even as the national leader of IYM, Ukoh, expressed the conviction of his group that if Nigeria was restructured it would take care of the various

agitations for break away by various separatist groups.

EKWUEME, ADEBANJO, OTHERS ASK BUHARI TO IMPLEMENT NATIONAL CONFERENCE REPORT Speaking at the 17th Annual Convention of the Igbo Youth Movement (IYM) headed by Evangelist Elliot Ukoh, which held at Nike Lake Hotels, Enugu, the leaders, who also included resource control protagonist, Ankio Briggs, maintained that anything short of restructuring Nigeria in line with the principles of true federalism would not be accepted.

According to them, the contents of the said report prescribed ways of solving most of the country's problems, adding that the president should demonstrate his commitment to building an enduring legacy by embracing the document as "a working document".

Speaking on the theme of the convention, "Still in Search

of True Federalism," Ekwueme said every disappointment was a blessing, noting that his incarceration in 1984 at Kirikiri prisons by the military afforded him the opportunity to reflect deeply on Nigeria's problems.

According to him, he came out with the idea of six geopolitical zonal structures, which he pushed for in a national conference much later and it became a convention, and has taken care of minorities in the south and the north.

Ekwueme stated that what Nigeria negotiated for and agreed with the colonial masters before independence was a regional government where each had a constitution, which were annexed to the Republican constitution of 1963.

According to him, the

Republican Constitution then provided 50 per cent revenue sharing formula for the regions, 30 per cent to a distributable pool, and 20 per cent to the centre. "There is need for us to return to the basics from what we inherited from our founding fathers," he said.

On his part, Adebanjo, who went down the memory lane to trace the origin of federalism in Nigeria to various pre-and post-colonial constitutional conferences, insisted that Nigeria must be restructured to correct the humongous damage done to the nation’s constitution by the military and to put a stop to the various acts of uprising in the country today, including those of Niger Delta Avengers (NDA), Movement for Actualisation of the Sovereign State of Biafra (MASSOB), and

Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB).

Gana stated that the nation’s founding fathers were right by agreeing to a federal structure, which he described as the best governance structure to guarantee peace, equity and justice. Briggs, who received the award of “Amazon of Truth” by IYM, stated that true and fiscal federalism must be truthful and justifiable, adding that she believed in resource control and that as much as she doesn’t believe that Nigeria must break, she believed that if the nation continued on the current path, then disintegration would be inevitable.

Obi stressed that he supported restructuring the country on the basis of fiscal federalism, but while that was being addressed, there

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T H I S D AY • MONDAY, JUNE 13, 2016

STARTERS

50 Killed in US Gay Club Shooting 50 persons have been confirmed dead and dozens of others injured after a gunman opened fire inside a packed gay nightclub in Orlando, United States of America.

The Washington Post reported that 50 persons were killed in what authorities are now describing as a case of domestic terrorism at Pulse, a popular gay club.

The shooter, who police identified as Omar Mateen, 29, was reportedly shot and killed by the police after a shootout.

Though Mr Mateen was born in Florida, his parents are believed to be from Afghanistan.

Police are still trying to identify the possible motive for the killing.

“It appears he was organised and well-prepared,” Orlando Police Chief John Mina said at a Sundaymorning news conference.

Mr. Mina said the shooter had an assault-type weapon and a handgun.

“This is an incident … that we certainly classify as a

domestic terror incident,” Orange County Sheriff Jerry Demings said at the news conference. The FBI is involved in the investigation, authorities said.

“We had a crime that will have a lasting effect on our community,” Orlando Mayor Buddy Dyer said. “We need to stand strong, we need to be supportive of the victims and their families.”

The police said though Mr. Mateen was known to authorities he was not under investigation.

The White House said President Barack Obama was briefed on the incident Sunday.

“Our thoughts and prayers are with the families and loved ones of the victims,” the White House said in a statement.

The statement added that Mr. Obama has requested for regular updates.

The Pulse posted a message around 2 a.m. local time on Facebook: “Everyone get out of pulse and keep running.”

There were around 300

persons inside the club at the time of the shooting.

A police Swat team arrived within minutes of the shooting and engaged the shooter.

The incident later developed into a hostage situation.

Mr. Mina later told journalists that the man was also armed with “suspicious device” alongside his guns.

There was also a report of a controlled explosion later.

The police said the gunman was killed three hours after the shooting began.

US President Barack Obama

Bank, Mr. Okechukwu Unegbu, said the decision to introduce a flexible exchange rate was because of the weakening macroeconomic environment.

“We have tried so many types of exchange rate systems in this country. From the Wholesale Dutch Auction, Retail Dutch auction, and several others. From my understanding, the flexible exchange rate system means that our forex policy would be in tandem with developments in the economy.

“If the economy is strong, the central bank would want the exchange rate to be in tandem with the state of the economy at that time and if the economy is weak, they would want to adjust it.

But the central bank is very right by not following the International Monetary Fund and World Bank advice to devalue our currency.

“There are reasons for devaluation and one of it is that you want to have more volume in your export, but here we don’t have anything to export. IMF and World Bank policies do not suit our environment,” he added.

Meanwhile, the CBN has stated that the sustained low

crude oil price and supply constraints at the foreign exchange market as well as other macroeconomic conditions impacted negatively on the quality of bank loans, raising their non-performing loans (NPLs) ratio to 10.1 percent in April 2016.

The current ratio is well above the prudential limit of five percent and further raises concerns over banks' asset quality.

According to the apex bank, the implementation of the Treasury Single Account (TSA) caused a decline of N1.02 trillion in banks' total deposits, which dropped to N17.51 trillion in April 2016 compared to N18.54 trillion in April 2015.

Also, industry total assets decreased by 0.6 percent or N158 billion to N27.43 trillion in April 2016 from N27.58 trillion in the corresponding period of 2015.

According to the CBN, industry Gross credit fell 0.3 percent to N13.36 trillion in the period under review compared to N13.40 trillion the previous year.

According to figures provided by CBN Deputy Governor, Economic Policy, Sarah Alade, industry Cash Adequacy Ratio (CAR) further deteriorated to 16.5 percent

in April 2016 from 17 percent in 2016 following decline in the total qualifying capitaloccasioned by regulatory deductions, retirement of Tier II capital, impairment as well as increase in the total task weighted assets.

In her presentation to the Bankers' Committee on the state of the economy and update on the regular Monetary Policy Committee (MPC) meeting, a copy which was obtained by THISDAY, banks' unaudited profit before tax for the period ended April 2016 decreased by 10.8 percent or N24 billion to N198 billion from N222 billion in 2015.

She said bank's return on equity (ROE) and return on assets (ROA) both fell to 2.17 percent and 16.17 percent in 2016 from 2.42 percent and 19.39 percent respectively.

"The decline was driven largely by a decrease in both interest and non-interest income, which declined by 6 percent or N50 billion and 5.4 percent or N259 billion respectively," she stated.

It further emerged that industry liquidity ratio (LR) stood at 46.3 percent in 2016 compared to 39.78 percent in 2015-and showed that banks operated far above the minimum requirement of 30 percent.

would be made public in due course after due consultations with relevant stakeholders.

“Following useful exploratory discussions held with high ranking officials of the current administration, the Movement for the Emancipation of the Niger Delta (MEND) has constituted 'Aaron Team 2' to dialogue with the Federal Government on the immediate, medium and longterm future of the Niger Delta region,” the group said, adding: “The team is made up of patriotic and selfless men and women of proven track record, integrity and character; and drawn from different parts of the Niger Delta region, members of the MEND Aaron Team 2 are by no means members of MEND.” MEND recalled that it had in the past 10 years of its existence taken up arms against the federal government and the International Oil Companies (IOCs) with a view to bringing to national and international attention, the pitiable paradox of the Niger Delta region.

It said it declared a ceasefire

on 30 May, 2014 in response to former President Goodluck Jonathan's Democracy Day speech of the previous day.

According to MEND, the ceasefire was an indication of the group's belief in dialogue and diplomacy as means of settling disputes.

MEND invited the NDA to agree to a ceasefire and join in the negotiation with the federal government, warning that unless they both embraced peace, the Niger Delta’s struggle for development would be hijacked, once again, by selfish interests for their own personal aggrandizement.

It cited the recent purported demand of the NDA made through the region's governors that the federal government should drop charges of corruption against certain individuals and politicians from the region as an indication that the struggle had been hijacked and described the demand as absurd, ridiculous and far removed from the Niger Delta struggle.

MEND said: “Our message to the Niger Delta Avengers (NDA) is simple: The Niger Delta struggle is beyond attacks on oil installations. Indeed, prior to the MEND ceasefire; the group had, among numerous daring attacks, on Thursday June 19, 2008 successfully carried out the spectacular attack on Royal Dutch Shell's offshore Bonga oilfield, which is located at a whooping distance of 120 kilometres (75miles) south-west of the Niger Delta.

“However, with the benevolent benefit of hindsight, the group realised that, after the initial euphoria of each successful attack, the gargantuan problems which confront our region; including environmental pollution and political corruption, increased geometrically. If indeed your cause is to avenge the injustice done to the Niger Delta region; then, we urge you to agree to a ceasefire and join us on the table of negotiating with the Federal Government.”

CHALLENGED CBN RELEASES FLEXIBLE FOREX GUIDELINES THIS WEEK The CBN had been heavily hamstrung by dwindling oil revenue receipts, brought about by the violent activities of militants in the Niger Delta, which have reduced the country’s monthly oil sales income from the all-time high of $3.2bn just 15 months ago to about $500,000 in April.

Experiencing great difficulties in funding the nation’s imports as a result of scarce foreign exchange, a situation that had put a heavy pressure on the naira, sending it on a free-fall, the CBN had to think up a workable solution that would open up the forex market while maintaining a robust forex reserve.

The dilemma for the apex bank, however, is how to hold on to the current reserves level of about $28bn and maintain price stability in the foreign exchange market in the face of dwindling oil receipts.

The dollar is currently trading at N365.

“I think the guidelines would be released latest by Friday,” a source very close to the apex bank told Thisday on Sunday.

At the last monetary policy committee (MPC) meeting held 20 days ago, members agreed to hold all policy rates constant and introduce greater flexibility in managing forex rate. As a result of this, a lot

of investors were cautiously optimistic and indeed excited.

The CBN Governor, Godwin Emefiele, had said the central bank resolved to introduce greater flexibility in the foreign exchange market structure and to retain a small window for critical transactions for prospective investors.

“With the foreign exchange market framework now ready, the MPC voted unanimously to adopt greater flexibility in the exchange rate policy to restore the automatic adjustment properties of the exchange rate,” he had explained.

Since then, the central bank has been consulting with stakeholders in the economy on the policy.

Actually, the Chief Executive Officer, Financial Derivatives Company Limited, Bismarck Rewane, had predicted that the much awaited guidelines might be released today.

Rewane, also known for his research works for the apex banking institution, had in a report to the Lagos Business School earlier in the month predicted today as the most likely day for the release of the guidelines for the flexible exchange rate policy.

But Bismarck had stated that a flexible exchange rate policy would have a long term impact of attracting capital inflows.

“CBN is preparing guidelines

but caught between a rock and a hard place. External reserves minus arrears are lower than desirable. There is the fear of a run as soon as cap is removed. Funding sources for a second forex window in doubt,” he said.

Creating possible outcomes on the planned flexible exchange rate, he predicted that the critical window rate could be N220/$; Interbank – N280/$ and parallel market– N320/$.

On their part, analysts at Afrinvest West Africa Limited, in a report at the weekend said it expects that the CBN would adopt “a crawling band system which will consist of an adjustable official rate at which the Bank intervenes and a corridor around the rate to moderate fluctuations in the interbank market.”

“This would still be marked improvement over the current fixed peg system but concerns would still remain on how the CBN would be adjusting its intervention rate (i.e. would it toe the parallel rate in lockstep manner or be fixed?) and how wide the width of the (a) symmetric corridor would be,” Afrinvest added.

Speaking in an interview with THISDAY, the CEO of Maxifund Securities Limited and a former CEO of the defunct Citizen International

Banks' deposits decline by N1.02tn

MILITANCY: FG, N'DELTA AVENGERS MAKE CONTACTS Faced with the huge production setback resulting in huge revenue losses to the nation’s purse, the federal government had set up a team under the auspices of the National Security Adviser, Maj-Gen. Babagana Monguno, and the Minister of State for Petroleum Resources, Ibe Kachikwu, to reach out to the militants and other relevant stakeholders and discuss ways of appeasing the restive youths and bring peace to the region.

To pave the way for the work of the committee, Acting President Yemi Osinbajo had met with the governors of the region, including Seriake Dickson (Bayelsa); Adams Oshiomhole (Edo), Ifeanyi Okowa (Delta); Nyesom Wike (Rivers) and Olusegun Mimiko (Ondo) last week, stating the federal government's position to stand down the military that had been drafted to the area to enforce law and order.

THISDAY learnt yesterday that the peace efforts were yielding

fruits as Kachikwu might have established some contacts with some of the commanders of the NDA, who had initially repudiated the move, preferring to hang on to its demand for self-determination for the Niger Delta.

The contacts, Thisday further learnt, might have been responsible for the cessation of bombings of oil installations in the last few days, as the avengers were being prevailed upon by FG’s back channels contacts to give peace a chance by embracing dialogue.

Sources close to the process, told THISDAY that evidence that progress was being made was the Movement for the Emancipation of Niger Delta’s (MEND) consistent calls for dialogue instead of violence.

Using its own channels, MEND was said to have intervened on behalf of Kachikwu’s team, reaching out to its fellow militants to give the federal government a listening opportunity.

MEND said yesterday though

that it was taking advantage of the olive branch offered by the federal government for dialogue and had appointed a former Minister of State for Petroleum, Odein Ajumogobia; a former senator, Florence Ita-Giwa; Bismark Rewane and four others as members of its team that will hold talks with the government on the crises in the Niger Delta.

The spokesman for MEND, Jomo Gbomo, said in a statement yesterday that it looked forward to the talks, stating that while Ajumogobia would represent Rivers State in the negotiating team, Rewane and Ita-Giwa would represent Delta and Cross River States, respectively.

According to the statement, other members of the team, it tagged Aaron Team, are Timipa Jenkins Okponipere (Bayelsa); Ibanga Isine (Akwa Ibom); Ledum Mitee (Rivers) and Lawson Omokhodion (Edo State).

It said the seven provisional members had accepted to serve on the team, adding that the remaining members of the team

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MONDAY JUNE 13, 2016 • T H I S D AY

NEWS

News Editor Davidson Iriekpen Email davidson.iriekpen@thisdaylive.com, 08111813081

Retrenchment: FG Invites Banks for Dialogue Ngige: NECA’s reaction to FG’s directive irresponsible, unpatriotic

Paul Obi in Abuja The Minister of Labour and Employment, Dr. Chris Ngige, has disclosed that the federal government has invited the banks for dialogue in order to chart the way forward.

In a statement by the Deputy Director, Press in the Federal Ministry of Labour and Employment, Samuel Olowookere, the minister said he was optimistic that the dialogue would be fruitful, “We have invited the banks to a dialogue and we hope the dialogue will be fruitful,” Ngige stressed.

Ngige took a swipe at the Director General of the Nigeria Employers Consultative Assembly (NECA) Mr. Segun Oshinowo, over NECA’s opposition to the directive of the federal government to banks and other financial institutions to suspend the ongoing retrenchment of workers in the sector pending the

outcome of a conciliatory meeting and stakeholders’ summit billed for the first week of July as not only irresponsible and thoughtless but also a bland knee jerk reaction borne out of self-service.

The minister’s position came amid several criticisms over his directive to banks, with many calling such act as arbitrary action beyond permissible boundaries.

He said: “Any reaction that tends to hamstrung the intervention by government in any sector of the economy in the overall interest of all Nigerians, by invoking a sudden rigid stricture to free market rules, is an overarching absurdity “If government has been intervening and shall continue to intervene to save banks and allied institutions, even the aviation industry, in times of distress without allowing the free market rules to solely reign, therefore forcing some of them to go under, the

same government can equally make minimum demands from this private sector in the overall interests of the nation. Our authority in this instance is not only statutory but also moral.

“Therefore, we wish to state clearly once more, that the intention of government rather than being punitive on these financial institutions is to safeguard national interest by staving off unnecessary job losses and hence avert its real and potential threat to the already fragile security situation and stability of the nation.

“Government intention is guided by the fact that there are

clear alternatives to the abrasive lay off of thousands of workers especially in the background of non-compliance with laid down rules on redundancy as clearly enunciated in our labour laws.

“The labour unions in the financial sector have brought forward, very strong evidence that thousands of workers laid off last year in a similar exercise are yet to receive their negotiated benefits.

“May we also add that our directives to the banks are premised on set rules of engagement. That section 20 of the labour act is abundantly clear on redundancy

and steps expected of institutions to safeguard not just their interests and that of their employees but also that of government who is the chief guarantor of industrial harmony.”

According to Ngige, “financial institutions though ‘privately owned’ are not mere private businesses in the manner of an average shop on the street, rather they are institutions whose stake in the stability of the national economy is denominated by their pivotal roles as well as consequent regulations and oversight by government.

“It is hence unpatriotic and a

predetermined sabotage of common good to expect that government will have its hands tied by a mischievous and self serving credo about free market.”

“The intention of government is that if the private sector is helmed from expansion and new job creation as a result of downturn in the economy, it can at least hold onto what exists by these institutions making little adjustments in the administrative and other expenditure profile. We have made similar patriotic demands from the petroleum sector (International Oil Corporations) and got positive results.”

Father of Three Boko Haram Kingpins Arrested in Borno The Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) yesterday announced the arrest of a man who confessed that three of his children are “arrow heads” of the Boko Haram sect.

The Commandant of the NSCDC in Borno State, Ibrahim Abdullahi, disclosed this to the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) in an interview, saying the man who is also a kingpin of the sect was apprehended in Askira Uba Local Government Area of Borno State on Tuesday.

“Our men have made

remarkable progress by arresting a Boko Haram kingpin,” Abdullahi said. “The notorious kingpin was said to be a recruiter as well as supplier of arms and improvised explosive devices (IEDs) to Boko Haram terrorists.

“He confessed that his three children were also arrow heads of the Boko Haram sect.”

The commandant said the suspect had been handed over to the army for further investigation.

Security agencies have to a large extent succeeded in bringing insurgency under control

Stop Paying Lip Service to Our Security, Northern CAN Tells Buhari, Govs Seriki Adinoyi in Jos Christians in the 19 Northern states and the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Abuja, have called on President Muhammadu Buhari and the respective state governors to stop paying lip service to their security.

Consequently, they have called on the federal and state governments in the North to put adequate measures in place to protect them and their places of worship and bring to an end incessant attacks and killings of Christians in the region.

The Chairman of Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) in the 19 Northern states and the, FCT, Rev. Yakubu Pam, who made the call, against the backdrop of recent killings of two Christians in Kano and Niger States, said it was unacceptable thatsomegroups of persons operating under the guise of defending their religion could hack to death a woman, Mrs. Bridget Agabahime, in Kano and another Christian male, Chimaije Emmanuel, to death in similar fashion under the guise of blaspheming against Prophet Mohammed. Rev Pam in a press statement issued at the weekend in Jos, charged northern governors

to face up to their responsibilities as chief security officers of their states and provide adequate security to the lives and properties of Christians in their states. He noted that Nigerians had equal rights to live in any state of the federation to carry out their lawful businesses without anyone causing harm to them. He said: “The recent ugly incidents in Kano and Niger states are regrettable and uncivilized and should not be tolerated by people of good will in this country. ‘’The perpetrators of these evil acts must be fished out with their gangs and made to face the full wrath of the law to serve as deterrence to others who might be nursing such ambition to carry out dastardly act in the nearest future.”

Pam also cautioned northern governors not to rush into committing parts of land in their states for grazing reserves or grazing route for cattle herders without going into consultation with the people of their respective states who own the land. He warned that unless the interests of the people they govern are taken into consideration before embarking on any policy, it might be counterproductive at the end of the day.

JUNE 12 ACITIVISTS

L-R: Guest Speaker and Deputy Vice Chancellor, University of Lagos, Prof. Duro Oni; National Coordinator, Oodua People’s Congress (OPC), Chief Gani Adams;Chairmanoftheoccasion,andformerGovernorofLagosState,AdmiralNdubuisiKanu(rtd);and President,WomenArise,Dr.JoeOkei-Odumakin, during the 23rd anniversary lecture of annulled June 12 presidential election, with theme: ‘The Spectre of June 12, Change Agenda and Democratic ConsolidationinNigeria’,organisedbyOPCinLagos....yesterday KolaOlasupo

Nigeria, Cameroun, UNHCR Agrees on Return of IDPs Senator Iroegbu in Abuja The federal government has signed a tripartite agreement with the United Nations High Commission for Refuge (UNHCR) and the Republic of Cameroun for the return of about 80,000 Nigerian refugees who had fled for safety and are currently taking refuge in the in the country.

The Director General of the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA), Muhammad Sani Sidi, disclosed this when an African Union Humanitarian Mission led

by Dr. Aisha Laraba Abdullahi, Commissioner Political Affairs, visited the Headquarters of the agency at the weekend.

Sidi said government was making efforts to cater for all their basic needs.

He said the federal government and governments of the states affected by the insurgency, United Nations Organisation (UNO), international non-governmental organisations (INGOs) and the private sector had done a lot in the past four years to manage large number of internally displaced persons (IDPs) in the North-east, adding that “we have moved from the emergency response stage to

recovery and resettlement of the IDPs.” He urged the visiting Abdullahi to use her good offices as Commissioner Political Affairs of the African Union to seek for more assistance and support for the affected persons and the states.

He thanked all the development partners, UN agencies, civil docieties for working tirelessly in supporting the IDPs and Government of Nigeria.

Earlier, the commissioner said they were in Nigeria to assess the situation of IDPs and to discuss areas of possible support. She added that displaced Nigerians were of concern to the AU, as records available to AU indicate that there were about 13 million displaced persons and 3 million refugees on the continent.

She commended the efforts of the Nigerian government and the military for degrading and minimising the activities of the insurgents in the North-east.

She said with the large number of displaced persons living in the camps, the AU would continue to give more attention to the issues of displacement through interaction and focus on addressing the root causes of conflict in Africa.

20% Fail Nigerian Law School Examinations About one in five students failed the recent law school examination and will not be called to the bar, official results have show.

The results show that 23. 6 per cent of students who sat for the final examination conducted by the Nigerian Law School will not make it to the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) this June.

The figure represents 720 candidates who sat for the examination held in April.

Potential candidates to the bar must sit and pass the final examination by the Nigerian Law School, to be qualified for the call to bar, scheduled to take place on June 12.

A statement from the Director General of the law school, Olanrewaju Anadeko, said 73 per cent of those who took part in the examination in April passed it.

Premium Times reported that out of the 3,056 candidates who partook in the examination this year, 2, 232 candidates passed, while 104 of them had conditional passes, apart from the 720 candidates who failed the examination, the statement said.

According to Section four of the Legal Practitioners Act, candidates must meet all other requirements

to qualify for the call to bar.

Section 4 (2) of the Act implies that the 104 candidates with conditional passes, representing 3.4 per cent of the total number of candidates, cannot rely solely on their kind of result to make it to bar.

Information provided by the school states that after concluding their study at the Nigerian Law School, successful candidates are given their certificates from the council and then called to bar by the Body of Benchers, ‘subject to the provisions of the Legal Practitioners Act.’ The Council of Legal Education is the regulatory body for the Nigeria Law School, which must be attended by persons willing to practice law in Nigeria.

It also determines the steps to be taken by persons who have obtained a university degree in law from a foreign institution and are willing to practice as lawyers in Nigeria.

The Nigerian Law School and the Council of Legal Education were established in 1962, following the enactment of the Legal Education Act to ensure the study of the Nigerian customary law by prospective members of the bench.

T H I S D AY MONDAY JUNE 13, 2016

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MONDAY JUNE 13, 2016 • T H I S D AY

NEWS

SERAP Urges FG to Resist Powerful Oil Companies to End Niger Delta Crisis Ugo Aliogo A civil society organisation, SocioEconomic Rights and Accountability Project (SERAP), has urged the federal government to stand up to powerful oil companies that have continued to abuse the human rights of the people of the Niger Delta with impunity for decades to satisfactorily resolve the crisis in the region.

Against the background of the crisis in the region fuelled by the activities of the Niger Delta Avengers (NDA) who are relentlessly bombing the country’s oil infrastructure and have slashed its crude output, SERAP in a statement yesterday by its Executive Director, Adetokunbo Mumuni, said an important part of the solution to the human rights crisis is for President Muhammadu Buhari to implement the ECOWAS Court judgment which ordered the federal government to punish oil companies over oil pollution and devastation in the region.

It was advised that the government should make sure that the activities of oil companies in Nigeria bring development to the people, rather than a string of needless human rights tragedies.

It accused former President, Goodluck Jonathan, of ignoring the judgment and showing no political will to hold to account oil companies that have for many years continued to destroy the livelihoods of tens of thousands of people with almost absolute impunity.

It called on President Buhari not to repeat Jonathan’s mistake, saying his government must adhere to the judgment without further delay.

The statement read further: “Oil companies, particularly Shell, have managed to evade responsibility

for far too long. And successive governments have allowed them to do so, putting profits before people.

As a result, communities badly affected by oil pollution are sinking further into poverty, unable to eat the contaminated fish or drink the water, stained black from the pollution.

“It’s also clear that oil companies wield tremendous influence over the regulatory regime that governs their operations. That has to change for the good and peace of the region. The change that Buhari champions should include justice for the victims of oil pollution in the Niger Delta, and that’s why the ECOWAS judgment is so significant because it provides the framework for action.

“The government should impose fines on oil companies for breach of regulations over the past 10 years and take measures to punish the companies. The government should also investigate the role that oil companies and others have played and continue to play in the environmental pollution in the region, and widely publish the outcome of any such investigation.”

The ECOWAS Court of Justice had in December 2012 in a case brought by SERAP, upheld the right of the people and communities of the Niger Delta to a general satisfactory environment and to an adequate standard of living.

The court unanimously ordered the government to: hold oil companies and other perpetrators of the environmental damage accountable; ensure reparation for the collective harm done to the communities; restore within the shortest possible time the environment of the Niger Delta; and prevent the occurrence of damage to the environment.

extraction in the region to be used for its development, have totally failed to prevent the continued environmental degradation of the region, “as evidenced by the facts abundantly proven in this case and admitted by the very same Federal Republic of Nigeria.”

SERAP’s case was brought on July 23, 2009, by its solicitor Femi Falana (SAN), against the President of Nigeria, the Attorney General of the Federation, Nigerian National

expectation of impunity) and to ensure that adequate reparation is provided for the victims.”

The court further stated that the numerous laws passed to regulate the extractive oil and gas industry and safeguard their effects on the environment, the creation of agencies to ensure the implementation of the legislation, and the allocation to the region, 13 per cent of the revenue that comes from natural resource

Petroleum Corporation (NNPC) Shell Petroleum Development Company, ELF Petroleum Nigeria ltd, AGIP Nigeria Plc, Chevron Oil Nigeria PLC, Total Nigeria Plc and Exxon Mobil.

Article 15(4) of the ECOWAS treaty makes the judgment of the court binding on member states, including Nigeria. Also, Article 19(2) of the 1991 Protocol provides that the decisions of the court shall be final and immediately enforceable.

PROMOTING ALTERNATIVE TO OIL

L-R: Former Special Assistant to former President on Petroleum, Dr. Muhammed Ibrahim; Managing Director, NiPCO Plc, Venkajaraman Venkatapathy; and the former President Olusegun Obasanjo, inspecting vehicles using Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) and Liquefied Petroleum Gas (LPG), an initiative of Green Gas Limited, in Ogun State....yesterday

Bayelsa Elders Write Buhari, Seek CAN Elections: Don’t Elect End to Militancy President Who will Dabble into councils, state and federal Politics, Catholic Bishops Warn Emmanuel Addeh in Yenagoa governments.

Political and traditional leaders in Bayelsa State yesterday argued that the growing unemployment and general frustration in the Niger Delta region are partly responsible for the resurgence of armed agitations in the region. your career when in 1998 destiny In a letter to President placed the leadership of this Muhammadu Buhari over the country on you. A responsibility rising incidences of piracy, oil you delivered creditably to the and gas pipelines attacks and admiration of the international other crimes, the elders noted community. that fighting unemployment “Even out of office, your track would substantially reduce records as a lover and agent of anger in the oil-rich area. peace saw to your appointment Specifically, the elders as ambassador of peace by the and traditional heads from international community. Your Bayelsa East senatorial strong conviction in peaceful district, noted in the letter resolution of conflicts has brought that the permanent solution peace to Liberia, Niger Republic to ending the criminalities in and Guinea where you have been the area was to ensure the called upon to mediate,” he stated. take-off of the Brass Liquefied The governor added that “The Natural Gas Project (Brass government and the good people LNG). of Niger State are proud of you. We They noted that though the celebrate our icon today and always local and state governments as he marks his 74th birthday and have tried in their own ways pray that Allah (SWT) will continue to provide employment, to preserve his life in good health initiate security and peace along as he continue to serve Allah, his the waterways, the delay in the creator, and mankind.” take-off of the project has left The governor then advised the many youths jobless, restive former military leader to continue and involved in the renewed to provide the much needed violence in the region. leadership and statesmanship The letter signed by Chief counselling to those in authority Newton Ayibatare and others, to enable the country move out stated that when fully established, of its present precarious condition. the gas project would employ Abdulsalami was born in Minna, over 16,000 restive youths and Niger State, on June 13, 1942. improve revenue to the local

Abdulsalami at 74: You are the Foundation of Our Democracy, Says Niger Gov Niger State Governor, Alhaji Abubakar Sani Bello, has said the country owes the uninterrupted democracy being enjoyed today in Nigeria to the solid foundation laid by the short but memorable administration of General Abdulsalami Abubakar (rtd).

The governor in a birthday message to Abdulsalami, who clocked 74 years today, described him as “the father of the new Nigeria.”

Bello in a statement issued in Minna yesterday signed by his Chief Press Secretary, Malam Jibrin Baba Ndace, said Abdulsalami’s contribution to democratic development of the country gave birth to the current political dispensation in the country.

“You are a compatriot of immeasurable value, a man whose words are his honour. Though your reign was brief, Nigeria and Nigerians are the beneficiaries of the democratic foundation you laid.

Your singular bravery saw to the enthronement of democracy and the re-positioning of Nigeria in the comity of nations.

“A committed and loyal officer, your towering credentials in the military saw you to the height of

The court also found that “oil spills pollute water, destroy aquatic life and soil fertility with resultant adverse effects on the health and means of livelihood of people in its vicinity. The government has failed in recent years to take any single action to punish perpetrators of oil pollution. It is incumbent upon the Federal Republic of Nigeria to prevent or tackle the situation by holding accountable those who caused the situation (with the clear

“We have watched with keen interest the recent development in the oil and gas sector and the renewed violence along the creeks, including militancy in the region.

“We condemn the series of attacks on pipelines and the people of the state by pirates and militants in Bayelsa state.

We commend the state and federal governments for actions taken so far.

“While we agree that there should be dialogue, the need to engage the youths with gainful employment is critical,” they argued.

In the state, the elders noted the need to speed up the commencement of the Brass LNG saying it was critical to supporting any form of dialogue between new militants and the federal government.

“The federal government should prevail on Brass LNG to commence work and absorb over 16,000 youths in the council. The people of the area have condemned and called on the members of the renegade militant groups to embrace dialogue.

“While we urge the youths of Bayelsa to desist from piracy and kidnapping, the practical solution to restiveness in the state and other Niger Delta states is economic empowerment and engagement,’’ the elders noted.

Paul Obi in Abuja Ahead of the general election of the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) slated for this week, the Catholic Bishops Conference of Nigeria (CBCN) yesterday warned against the election and emergence of a CAN leader who will dabble into politics and engage in the bizarre act of sharing money with politicians.

The bishops’ caution is coming on the heels of several issues surrounding the conduct of the elections, specifically, the alleged exclusion of ECWA President, Rev. Jeremiah Gado from the race.

CBCN President and Archbishop of Jos, Ignatius Kaigama told THISDAY that though the Catholic Church is “aware of the controversy, concerning the decision to elect a new president. As Catholic Church, we support due process, we want to see an inclusive CAN. “We want an election that produces someone who has the capacity to unite every Christian; someone who has the zeal not only to unite all Christians but people of other faiths.

“We are not concerned about who emerges, but we will support any winner who will return CAN to the fundamentals of the association, not someone who will dabble into issues of politics and money sharing,” Kaigama said.

The CBCN president further stated that the Catholic bishops “are

concerned about the fundamental issues. We are not concerned now about who is the president, we are concerned about the critical tasks expected of CAN. “Someone who will unite Christians and move the association forward, not someone with the spirit of a politician,” he stated.

Kaigama observed that the crisis bedevilling the CAN elections is an ominous sign that something is wrong somewhere.

“Where there is rigorous struggle either to get a position, then it is questionable. This is an organisation that is meant to serve, and if people are struggling, then, something is wrong. “Therefore, if there are diversions from CAN constitution in the conduct of the elections, we will have reservation about it,” Kaigama submitted.

The CBCN warning came as CAN National Executive Committee (NEC) yesterday insisted that only Prof. Joseph Otubu of the Organisation of African Instituted Churches (OAIC) and Rev. Samson Olasupo Ayokunle of the Baptist Convention are running for the post of the president.

CAN Secretary General, Rev. Musa Asake, informed THISDAY that preparations are in top gear to ensure a smooth conduct of the elections.

Asake further stated that: “Only Otubu and Ayokunle are standing for the elections” and no any other candidate is known to NEC.

T H I S D AY MONDAY JUNE 13, 2016

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COMMENT

Editor, Editorial Page PETER ISHAKA Email peter.ishaka@thisdaylive.com

THE DEBT CRISIS: MYTHS AND REALITIES

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Venatius A. Ikem argues the federal government should not be taken in by agitations for bailout by the states

he myth about the inability of state governments to pay salaries is being taken too far. The truth is that it is absolutely impossible for any state to be incapable of paying legitimate salaries of its genuine workforce despite the drop in federal allocation.

During the celebrations of Democracy Day we all saw the states jostling to show case real and imaginary projects with which they have performed “miracles” in their respective domains and for which we must be thankful, while insisting that they do not have enough to pay salaries. Even in projects that lie only in the realm of fantasy, the truth is that monies would have been appropriated and taken out of the government coffers.

Don’t get me wrong: I have nothing against execution of projects by any administration at all. But I believe that the first charge of any responsible administration is the salaries of those who offer the services that in this case will include collection of revenues and managing same.

This myth is however being sustained by the unanimity of purpose of the governors despite party affiliation, when it comes to the conspiracy to take as much as they can from the centre.

I find myself constantly prevaricating between support for more share of federally collected revenue to the states and sustaining the status quo, when I take into consideration the attitude of most of our governors in the management of the resources of their states. Like I said somewhere, most people do not seem to concern themselves with what happens in their states and so do not bother. The truth is that having killed the local government system by hijacking their allocation via state/local government joint allocation committees, the state remains the only hope of any form of reasonable service provider, business enabler and in fact life sustenance that most people can relate to. But unfortunately, there is neither transparency, accountability nor even democracy being practised in most states. The level of impunity both in dealing with resources and critics is quite disturbing. Since the advent of The Fourth Republic, clearly there has been more efforts at democracy at the centre than there has been in the states, particularly when we are talking of separation of powers. This was taken to its peak when state Houses of Assembly voted against a proposal to make them self-accounting as independent arms of government! If President Muhammadu Buhari is again captured by the governors as they did Goodluck Jonathan, we can be sure that the governors will forever mortgage this country and bury her forever!

The signs through this claim of inability to pay salaries look very ominous to me. The blackmail is to create the impression that the federal government is the problem. The federal government must take steps to address the issues of misappropriation of public funds daily assaulting our sensibilities from the various states by monitoring the application of those resources. Most of the stolen sovereign wealth for which there is a global outreach to repatriate is money stolen by governors.

As we speak if urgent steps are not taken to address fundamental questions arising from this claim of insolvency, the PMB administration may soon be bogged down by the compelling need to continue to bail the states out without any basis. It is on record that some of the bailout

THIS MYTH IS HOWEVER BEING SUSTAINED

BY THE UNANIMITY OF PURPOSE OF THE GOVERNORS DESPITE PARTY AFFILIATION, WHEN IT COMES TO THE CONSPIRACY TO TAKE AS MUCH AS THEY CAN FROM THE CENTRE

funds recently disbursed have been diverted into projects other than payment of salaries, yet in some instances the backlog of salaries remain unpaid! The reason is simple to my mind: there is no benefit in paying workers’ salaries. There is a lot to gain on the contrary by paying “contractors “, who in most instances are fronts for the governors.

Benue State seems interesting in this instance. While the governor recently awarded 48 roads contracts, the civil servants are still being owned five or more months’ salaries! And the governor’s explanation is that he is doing “verification”! But it is on record that a good proportion of the bailout fund has already been used to finance various projects! It is not unlikely that after the “verification” exercise the governor will not join the queue to ask for bailout funds to pay workers’ salaries afresh!

This situation is by no means unique to Benue State. And I think the president has not paid much attention to the reports of the misapplication of those funds and if he does not, this will embolden the governors.

Is it not strange that a governor who gets “bailout” funds has as many as 300-400 political aides in his employ and runs a convoy of almost 100 cars, plus something close for a co-governor who happens to be his brother, apart from the deputy governor, as in the case of Cross River State?

Furthermore, the vexed issue of what quantum of resources can be taken as “security” vote by a governor must be addressed otherwise PMB is merely wasting our time and his energy and making more money available only for the governors to steal.

The National Assembly must as part of the change agenda consider what the overriding public interest is in the concept of immunity for serving governors. I am yet to know of anywhere else in the modern world where such a strange contrivance exists to deprive a people from unquestioned brigandage by her leaders while being protected supposedly by their constitution! The idea that after office they can then be put on trial is most patronising. The results we have seen since the past 17 years clearly show the ineffectiveness of such expectations.

If we are serious about fighting against corruption, these are some of the critical infrastructure that by Constitutional protection, guarantee the sustenance of the vice forever and which must be removed as a way of moving forward. This is what is making state governance so attractive that very soon a former Senate President or Vice- President will retire to go and run for the office of governor of his state! Almost every Speaker and Deputy Speaker so far has been in the race successfully or otherwise despite the established protocol that puts one above the other!

As oil revenues seem to rebound albeit on the back of our misfortune, one hopes that if there is enough to share once again the much touted diversification of the economy will not be abandoned as governors will continue to mount pressure for the sharing of the national cake to sustain their appetites. The critical challenge to check them lies in removing bottlenecks to prosecution and the establishment of a robust process for checking their excesses by building institutions that can hold them to account.

Ikem is a former National Publicity Secretary of the PDP

STEMMING HARBINGERS OF CLIMATE CHANGE

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It is time to start catching up with the rest of the world by relying less on fossil fuel to generate power, argues Olubunmi Aboderin

l Gore, a former United States Vice-President, must be oscillating between glee and gloom. Glee that his prognostications about climate change have largely been vindicated, and gloom that his prognostications about climate change have largely been vindicated.

When his book and documentary entitled, An Inconvenient Truth, came out in 2006, he was viewed as everything from a well-meaning but false alarmist to a destabilising quack propagating a conspiracy theory. He was one of the first public figures with international face-recognition to sound the warning on the impending doom we’ve come to know as global warming. Few believed him at the onset, but now 10 years later, history has proved him to be, most unfortunately, more right than wrong.

Both 2014 and 2015 were declared the hottest years on record. 2016 may well be hotter still, judging by the unusually high temperatures we’ve been experiencing particularly since February. In Nigeria, the undue temperatures and changes in weather patterns are causing year-by-year shrinkage of fertile acreage in the northern parts of the country. This warmer-weather phenomenon and its attendant consequences are being felt in other parts of the world too. In December 2015, the former second largest lake in Bolivia, Lake Poopo, irreversibly evaporated. In April this year, thousands of tonnes of dead sardines washed up on the banks of the Queule River in Chile. In May, a wildfire started near Fort McMurray in Canada and spread across more than 505,000 hectares, forcing the mandatory evacuation of an entire town.

According to NASA, the global temperature in April 2016 was the warmest ever recorded in any April since 1880. This across-borders rise in temperature is caused by both naturally-occurring and

man-made factors. El Nino, the periodic movement of large chunks of warm water across the Pacific Ocean, is the primary naturally-occurring cause of climate change. Greenhouse gases, such as fossil fuel-induced carbon dioxide, are the predominant man-made instigants of global warming. Climate change has an impact on the availability of water, the food supply chain, and of course, the environment.

Our production of fossil fuels (like oil) and our overdependence on its derived products (like diesel, kerosene or petrol) are not helping. The quantum of carbon dioxide in the atmosphere is said to have reached its highest recorded level in 2015. Mankind is producing more carbon dioxide than the earth can naturally process.

Most of us would list better roads and constant power supply as absolute necessities for Nigeria’s economic growth. However, our quest for development must be conducted sustainably. For example, while it’s splendid that there are plans to build a multi-lane, superhighway in Cross River State, it should only be done after taking time to properly assess the long term, environmental impact of cutting through a national park, felling countless trees and irreparably altering certain ecosystems. When viewed through a climate change prism, such a trade-off may prove to be ultimately retrogressive and costly in ways that may only become apparent 30 years from hence.

Having constant power supply is a boon to commercial competitiveness. The country’s current power generating capacity is said to have fallen below 2,500MW. There is a possibility that capacity for an additional 2,000MW will be restored by the end of 2016. The Federal Ministry of Power, Works and Housing forecasts that our peak power demand in Nigeria is around 12,800MW and hopes to generate up to 40,000MW by 2020. However, there

are those who believe that that goal is too modest because our needs could in actual fact be as high as 1,000MW per one million people. So, how do we balance this vital requirement for electricity with the pressing need to halt drastic climate change? Right now, the power shortfall is made up principally by gas-turbined private power projects or the individual use of generators fuelled by diesel or petrol. Perhaps, it is time for us to be earnest about catching up with the rest of the world and shifting away from relying mainly on fossil fuel to generate our power. It is instructive that the construction of a 10MW wind farm in Katsina State has not been completed 10 years after inception. Meanwhile, the Gansu Wind Farm in China started in 2009 and seven years later it can generate more than 7,900MW. Their goal is to generate at least 20,000MW from this wind farm alone by the year 2020. We seriously need to up our game.

Thankfully, there are indigenous social utility companies in Nigeria, which have figured out how to provide 24-hour electricity to rural communities at an affordable rate using solar energy. Incentives should be provided so that more entrepreneurs will be motivated to develop alternative energy solutions.

Institutional investors with excess liquidity should consider ploughing their money into renewable energy projects (instead of building yet another block of unoccupied luxury apartments). Individuals with extra funds earning a pittance in savings accounts can also figure out how to invest in viable enterprises dedicated to providing clean energy. These are ways that we can replicate, for example, the communityowned wind farm system practised in the German region of North Frisia. The wind farms in North Frisia have the capacity to generate approximately 700MW, which is more electricity than the residents can use.

Imagine that. Constant power supply without the

noise or atmospheric pollution of generators.

The sooner we can switch to using renewable energy like solar, wind or water, the better the chance we have for minimising the damaging effects of environmental anomalies within our borders. Though the chances of Nigeria becoming a zero-carbon economy are minuscule, those who insist that we can pursue development at a pace and in a manner that is “in harmony with nature”, are not necessarily treehugging lefties and should not be ignored. A healthy planet would undoubtedly be one of the greatest legacies that we can give to the next generation.

At a personal level, we can do what little we can to slow down or even reverse global warming.

We can reduce, reuse and recycle if at all possible.

Turning off lights and air conditioning when no one is in the room reduces emissions. Even just raising an air-conditioning system’s thermostat by two degrees in warmer climes (or two degrees lower in colder climes), creates less carbon dioxide. Using LED or CFL bulbs also helps. Opting for cars run by renewable energy or car pooling, or biking to your destination if you are able to, can make a difference.

Planting trees or finding ways to incorporate existing trees into your building design is beneficial too because trees absorb carbon dioxide. This reminds me of a US-based NGO known as the Centre for Renewable Energy and Appropriate Technology for the Environment (CREATE!). CREATE! provides training to interested groups in rural communities on how to start and maintain year-round, sustainable vegetable gardens and tree nurseries without the use of any fossil fuel. The trees double as living fences, and reverse the trend of deforestation. The foliage provides shade, and the produce provides nutrition, as well as a source of income.

Ms. Aboderin, an economist, is a member of the Institute of Directors

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EDITORIAL NIGERIA AND MODERN DAY SLAVERY A culture where children are expected to provide for or supplement their family upkeep must be discouraged

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hile Nigeria is the most populous country on the continent, it also has the odious reputation of hosting the largest number of enslaved people in sub-Sahara Africa.

A recent report released by the Global Slavery Index said as much. The survey, conducted in 167 countries across the world by anti-modern slavery organisation, ‘Walk Free Foundation’, revealed that there are 875,500 people living in slavery in Nigeria. According to the survey, slavery in Nigeria takes the form of forced labour in the domestic sector while forced marriages account for the second highest form of slavery in the country.

Indeed, the report merely confirmed what is routinely displayed across the nation. Many Nigerians do not have the luxury of walking free as they live in conditions that are more or less similar to olden day slavery, where they are treated like property—owned, bought and controlled.

Many children have no childhood as they THERE IS A NEED are “lent” out by their FOR SUSTAINED parents to “uncles and SENSITISATION OF aunties” or given to NIGERIANS, ESPECIALLY “good Samaritans”, IN RURAL AREAS, ON some at a very tender THE DANGERS POSED age and forced to do BY ‘GOOD SAMARITANS’ many degrading things WHO SUPPOSEDLY OFFER BETTER LIVES FOR - from being house helps to trading in the CHILDREN AWAY FROM THE WATCHFUL EYES OF streets; while forced marriages are common THEIR PARENTS among the girls.

According to reports, some 45 per cent of girls are married—usually against their will—from age 13 to 18 in the northern part of the country. Wasila Tasi’u, 14, who rebelled against the practice of forced marriage in Kano State last year confessed to poisoning her 35-year-old husband and three others. “She did it because she was forced by her parents to marry a man she did not love,” Kano State police spokesman said. While that is not a common occurrence, it

Letters to the Editor

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nonetheless underscores the gravity of the situation.

In the southern part of the country, many of the victims are also women and girls who are usually forced into prostitution and kept by illegal tactics and paid little or nothing. Indeed, human trafficking has become one of the biggest money making businesses after drug trafficking today. Nigeria is not only a transit route for this illegal trade but also a source as well as a destination, especially of the womenfolk. Many are shipped like commodities from neighbouring countries.

There are proprietors of orphanage homes who are in the business of collecting abandoned babies as well as pregnant teenagers who they then quarter until their delivery time. These unscrupulous people, mostly women, engage in child trafficking under the pretext of running motherless babies’ homes. The situation is compounded by the fact that in our country today, several of those homes are run by unqualified matrons whose only interest are the pecuniary benefits to be made. They take advantage of lax regulations and lack of proper supervision by the relevant government agencies.

T H I S DAY

EDITOR IJEOMA NWOGWUGWU DEPUTY EDITOR BOLAJI ADEBIYI MANAGING DIRECTOR ENIOLA BELLO DEPUTY MANAGING DIRECTOR KAYODE KOMOLAFE CHAIRMAN EDITORIAL BOARD OLUSEGUN ADENIYI EDITOR NATION’S CAPITAL IYOBOSA UWUGIAREN

T H I S DAY N E W S PA P E R S L I M I T E D

EDITOR-IN-CHIEF/CHAIRMAN NDUKA OBAIGBENA GROUP EXECUTIVE DIRECTORS ENIOLA BELLO, KAYODE KOMOLAFE, ISRAEL IWEGBU, EMMANUEL EFENI, IJEOMA NWOGWUGWU GROUP FINANCE DIRECTOR OLUFEMI ABOROWA DIVISIONAL DIRECTORS PETER IWEGBU, FIDELIS ELEMA, MBAYILAN ANDOAKA, ANTHONY OGEDENGBE DEPUTY DIVISIONAL DIRECTOR OJOGUN VICTOR DANBOYI SNR. ASSOCIATE DIRECTOR ERIC OJEH ASSOCIATE DIRECTORS HENRY NWACHOKOR, SAHEED ADEYEMO CONTROLLERS ABIMBOLA TAIWO, UCHENNA DIBIAGWU, NDUKA MOSERI GENERAL MANAGER PATRICK EIMIUHI GROUP HEAD FEMI TOLUFASHE ART DIRECTOR OCHI OGBUAKU II DIRECTOR, PRINTING PRODUCTION CHUKS ONWUDINJO TO SEND EMAIL: first name.surname@thisdaylive.com

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owever, as the Global Slavery Index report rightly revealed, the underlining reasons for the crime of modern slavery are overwhelming poverty, economic crises, conflicts and environmental disasters. The survey showed for instance that the Boko Haram conflict in the north east led to an increase in the number of people living in slavery in Nigeria and other neighbouring countries like Chad and Cameroun. It is an open secret that members of the brutal insurgent group routinely kidnap in the north east region women and children who they use as sex slaves and put them to forced labour.

As it is, even if conflicts are curbed, there is also a need for sustained sensitisation of Nigerians, especially in rural areas, on the dangers posed by ‘good Samaritans’ who supposedly offer better lives for children away from the watchful eyes of their parents and guardians. A culture where little children are expected to provide for or supplement their family upkeep must be discouraged. We must put a stop to modern day slavery in Nigeria.

TO OUR READERS Letters in response to specific publications in THISDAY should be brief (150-200 words) and straight to the point. Interested readers may send such letters along with their contact details to opinion@thisdaylive.com. We also welcome comments and opinions on topical local, national and international issues provided they are well-written and should also not be longer than (9501000 words). They should be sent to opinion@thisdaylive.com along with the email address and phone numbers of the writer.

IN PRAISE OF HASSAN OMALE

one are the days when leaders tread with conscience and are mindful of accountable stewardship. Gone is the era when leaders commit to general will and ensured better living conditions for the rest of the masses simply because it is their right to be so provided. In these times of self -serving leadership, finding one man who holds himself conscientiously accountable to the people while wielding power is akin to discovering an oasis in a desert. There is such a man in Honourable Hassan Omale. For so long politicians always eat their cake and have it because of the unfortunate shortness of memory or so has come to be the reasoning.

Another factor that adds to their convenience is the elections time political largesse with which they blur our sense of proportion, our judgments and of course, taint our conscience. As this gloomy and horrifying state became the lot of our existence, we are soon led to the threshold beyond which we can no longer tolerate the insensitivity of politics without representation. And above all avarice-based and self-serving leadership. This is no small matter because the stink of the rotten politics where a select clique of community elders without integrity get their stable allowance for being what they are and doing what they do while the rest of us are treated to unconscionable amount of suffering. This state of affair s cannot escape reactions. As inghams would say, you can slam one manhole cover shut, but the force of the sewage will push up somewhere else. People began to realise the self-mockery and futility of the old ways. People began to explore various option including political apathy and antipathy, which way to go? Apathy, the evils stay and we suffer both the direct and indirect repercussions.

Antipathy, we take notice and choose a reaction pattern. We did a leadership evaluation and realised that we are greatly disadvantaged. Our leaders seemed to have their genius for inactivity developed to a very high point. They exuded a grim, determined, alert inactivity which targets absolutely appalling

results of infrastructural decay, moral and social wretchedness and perpetual enslavement of the mass of the people. This philosophy of leadership in my community smacks of a conspiracy of the political class to create a social dualism which partitions the society into a wretched class of Rankayadede sayers and another glorious class of their beholders. It is our quest for a better political order that has given Hassan Omale, member, House committee on Appropriation, and the Representative of our constituency (Ankpa/Omala/ Olamaboro) the prominence, admiration and loyalty he enjoys today in the constituency and beyond.

The popularity of Hon. Omale and the goodwill bestowed upon him across his constituency derived from his flexibility, dynamism and resilience in keeping with his current political circumstances of Kogi State. Leaning on nuance and pragmatism rather than stridency and principle, Omale has continued to conduct himself with rigour, transparency and steadfastness while ensuring that his representation gains the desirable dividends for his constituents.

Omale, indeed, is a representative of his people.

His concern, inputs and lobbing in the house are only dedicated to serving the cause of his people. This is a big change from the days past. Omale has his foot soldiers going round the wards of the constituency to see which problems need fixing. The amazing aspect of Hon. Omale politics is his grassroots involvement. If it’s fasting, sallah or xmas celebration, he is there to share and add to the fun. If its funeral he is there to condole, if it is health related, he pays the bills. If it is fundraising, he is a contributor. He misses nothing and contributes into everything of his constituency that comes to his notice. His re-invention of leadership and democratic representation has brought us to the dawn of a new era. It has jostled and jolted our interests in politics and government. It is for this singular reason that we are taking the time to thank this man who has made the difference in our lives.

Franchis Monday Adejoh, Omala Local Govt Area, Kogi State

CULT KILLINGS AT UNIVERSITY OF AGRICULTURE, MAKURDI

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he killings of the students at Federal University of Agriculture, Makurdi by cult members and the sluggish and lackadaisical attitude of the school’s Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Emmanuel Kucha, is baffling.

However, I would like to state here clearly that any university, college or polytechnic where cultists are operating, killing and disrupting the academic activities and the heads/management of such schools are not doing anything tangible to arrest the situation, are suspects.

The vice-chancellor of the University of Agriculture, Makurdi and his team should explain why students are being murdered by cult members and they are not doing anything about it.

Let me call on the concerned authorities to investigate the killings of students in the university and ensure that the criminals are brought to book.

Fulani herdsmen are killing in the state, cult members are killing, and bad leadership is helping in all this. Where can we go and be safe?

Awunah Pius Terwase, Mpape, Abuja

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T H I S D AY • MONDAY, JUNE 13, 2016

POLITICS

Group Politics Editor Olawale Olaleye Email wale.olaleye@thisdaylive.com 08116759819 SMS ONLY

T H E M O N D AY D I S C O U R S E

Age Review of Candidacies Hon. Tony Nwulu’s proposed reduction in the age ceiling for persons seeking political offices in the country is a welcome idea. Shola Oyeyipo and Segun James write

The House in session

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he news, last week, of a bill seeking to reduce the age qualification for candidates wishing to contest for elective offices, was perhaps the most exciting relief in the midst of the confusion that currently dots the turf. The bill, which passed its second reading in the House of Representatives last week, was sponsored by Hon. Tony Nwulu of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) from Lagos and seeks to alter sections 65, 106, 131 and 177 of the 1999 Constitution.

According to the sketchy details of the bill, it seeks reduction for the office of President from 40 to 30 years; office of Governor from 35 to 30 years; the Senate from 35 to 30 years and the federal and state houses of assembly from 30 to 25 years. In addition, the bill also seeks to allow for independent candidacy into the country’s electoral process.

In his submission, Nwulu described the process of electing candidates into political office as an important part of democratic practice, saying “Countries like the United Kingdom parliament decided in 2006 to lower their age of candidacy from 21 to 18, which had existed since the Parliamentary Elections Act of 1695,” adding also that “An age candidacy of 25 would encourage greater youth participation in politics.”

The lawmaker also harped on the need to further open up the electoral space to independent candidates. And following a voice vote presided over by the Speaker, House of Representatives, Hon. Yakubu Dogara, the bill was subsequently referred to the ad hoc committee on Constitutional Review.

The need for more active youth participation in the nation’s electoral process has been one constant debate on the horizon for some time.

But this encouragement has only existed in the mode of sheer advice without the recourse to some of the legal and constitutional inhibitions that have made it possible for the youths to fully come on board. Such a stiff constitutional position has, however, been described as one of the reasons for the illegal padding up of ages by some of the youths to enable them fast-track their involvement in the electoral process.

Indeed, over the years, Nigeria has had many cases of alleged age falsification by

Nwulu...pondering the future of the youth

people elected into offices, a situation that directly speaks to the stifling laws inhibiting the youths from directly taking their destiny into their hands and in good time. One of such celebrated cases was that of the former speaker of the House of Representatives, Hon. Salisu Buhari, who padded his age from 29 years to 36 to enable him contest for election in 1999.

True to his plan, not only did he contest and win the election, he also went on to emerge the speaker of the new democratic experiment in 1999, becoming the nation’s first major democratic test. To further compound his own case, he also presented a forged university certificate from Toronto, Canada in order to up his resume.

Thus, a combination of these ugly circumstances made a mess of his case and the pressure mounted until he stepped from speakership, in tears and with apology to the Nigerian people. But had such an age ceiling been absent, he would have had a successful reign as he was said to have shown leadership in the few weeks of his speakership.

Interestingly, circumstances as these are not peculiar to Nigeria alone, albeit in different contexts. For example in the US, people who are

younger than the minimum age requirements deliberately run for offices in protest of the requirements or because they don’t know that the requirements exist. On certain occasions, young people had been elected into offices they did not qualify for or deemed ineligible to assume the office.

In 1934, Rush Holt of West Virginia was elected to the Senate of the United States at the age of 29. Since the U.S. Constitution requires senators to be at least 30, Holt was forced to wait until his 30th birthday, six months after the start of the session, before being sworn in.

Also, in 1954, Richard Fulton won election to the Tennessee Senate, but shortly after being sworn in, Fulton was ousted from office because he was only 27 years old at the time.

The Tennessee State Constitution required that senators be at least 30. Rather than hold a new election, the previous incumbent, Clifford Allen, was allowed to resume his office for another term, invoking some kind of doctrine of necessity. But Fulton went on to win the next State Senate election in 1956 and was later elected to the US House of Representatives, where he served for 10 years.

Similarly, in South Carolina, two Senators aged 24 were elected, but were too young according to the State Constitution. They were Mike Laughlin in 1969 and Bryan Dorn (later a US Congressman) in 1941. Interestingly, in their case, they were eventually seated.

On a few occasions too, the Socialist Workers Party (SWP) in the US had nominated candidates too young to qualify for the offices they were running for. In 1972, for instance, Linda Jenness ran as the SWP presidential candidate, although she was only 31 at the time. But since the US Constitution requires that the President and Vice-President be at least 35 years old, Jenness was not able to receive ballot access in several states in which she otherwise qualified. And despite these shortcomings, Jenness still received 83,380 votes.

Again, in 2004, the same party, SWP nominated Arrin Hawkins as its vicepresidential candidate even though she was only 28 years at the time. As expected, Hawkins too was unable to receive ballot access in several states due to her age.

Therefore, sometimes, the poor participation

of youths in the political process might not be their doing and the tendency to want to obtain by hook or crook often makes a mess of the process and further paints the business of politics as intrinsically filthy. This is why the move by Nwulu has largely received commendation across the country as a majority of the people sees it as one of the positive credits that might go with the present session of the National Assembly at the nick of time if eventually passed into law.

The Debate Starts Now For young Linus Idahosa, an entrepreneur and an international media consultant of repute, who is already enjoying the support of a lot of people in Edo State to inject freshness into the state’s body polity by urging him to join the 2016 governorship election in the state, the proposed bill is a pointer to the need to get the younger generation actively involved in leadership.

“We often forget that Jesus Christ is our biggest example of a youth leader, who at 33 was done and had raised disciples, who centuries later are still influencing and gathering billions of adherents the world over.

“My take has always been and will continue to be that wisdom, leadership and the capacity to chart a path to a desirable and prosperous nation by laying the foundation for a continued, sustainable but organic growth path, is not and cannot be the exclusive preserve of those on the plus side of 40 but an inherent quality that providence bestows on one and the challenges of life help to enhance, refine and sharpen in one.

“At any rate, no man lives forever and failure to deliberately, conscientiously and willingly transfer power to succeeding generations in their prime is an aberrant life cycle unknown to nature and trust me, nature always corrects itself.

“It’s one thing for the bill to be passed; it’s another thing for the Nigerian youth to rise to the occasion because the system as presently constituted is not designed to give it to us on a platter; instead it prides in creating a generation of special assistants (SAs). It’s entirely up to the Nigerian youth to activate and enforce the strength of its number”.

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T H I S D AY • MONDAY, JUNE 13, 2016

POLITICS/ THE MONDAY DISCOURSE AGE REVIEW OF CANDIDACIES

Members of Nigeria’s Council of State, comprising former and incumbent leaders

Former chairman, Ejigbo Local Council Development Area (LCDA), Lagos and currently, a Special Adviser to Governor Akinwunmi Ambode of Lagos State on Communities and Communications, Mr. Kehinde Bamigbetan feels that the amendment being proposed by the lower chamber of the National Assembly is in line with the democratic principle of majority having the say.

“I agree with it entirely because when you look at the statistics, 65 per cent of the Nigerian population is under the 40 years age grade. If we are practicing democracy, which is government of the people, by the people and for the people – if you are following the majoritarianism political philosophy or agenda that asserts that a majority of the population is entitled to a certain degree of primacy in society, and has the right to make decisions that affect the society, we should ensure that younger people are also able to freely seek elective offices.

“We have a lot in history to show that the youth had the opportunity to lead the country in recent past. Former military head of state, Gen. Yakubu Gowon became the president of Nigeria at about 31 years old. Alfred DieteSpiff was the military governor of the old Rivers State, from 1967 to 1975.

“He was also a member of the Supreme Military Council (SMC) under General Yakubu Gowon’s administration, he was only 25 years. Ganiyu Dawodu, when he became the chairman, Lagos City Council less than 30. Enahoro became very relevant in national politics at a very young age. Ngige was 25 when he became what Alhaji Lai Mohammed is today; he became the National Publicity Secretary of the Action Group.

“My position is that once you are able to vote, you should be able to be voted for. There is no reason why you should benefit from my vote when I cannot be voted for. Let the people say that I cannot be president and don’t use a gerontocracy principle to deny me.

“Recall that Anthony Enahoro was still a teenager when, in the early 1940s, he became the chairman of the Lagos chapter of the Nigerian Union of Students. By the time he turned thirty, the Kings College, Lagos alumnus had edited two newspapers, published a third, gone to prison thrice, founded a political party (The Mid-West Party), and won election into the Western Region House of Assembly.

“Enahoro’s activist leanings were deeply inspired by famed nationalist Herbert Macaulay, who founded the Nigerian National Democratic Party (NNDP), Nigeria’s first political party, in June 1923 just a month before Enahoro’s birth.”

Nigerian women rights activist and President, Women Arise for Change Initiative and the Campaign for Democracy (CD), Dr. Joe Obiajulu Okei-Odumakin said, “It is a welcome development. We cannot always allow Nigerian youths to be followers. It is time for them to take the lead. They are no longer of tomorrow, but of today. They should mobilise their colleagues to support and ensure that it is passed.

“It is a new dawn. But we hope that they won’t kill it; the septuagenarians who want to die in politics. The youths should make strong appeal. They should use what is available

to their generation, the social-media until they hold the hands of those gerontocrats and twist it back.”

As far as lawyer and former deputy directorgeneral of Governor Ibikunle Amosun campaign organisation, Chief Bisi Adegbuyi is concerned, it is putting Nigeria on the map of global best practices.

“It is what is obtainable in jurisdictions, where best practices are obtainable. We should be involving the youths. We would be taking the wisdom of the old and combine it with the energy and youthfulness of the young. In some other climes, leadership usually emerges from the youth – they usually place emphasis on leadership at youthful age. People in secondary schools and university; they train the youths in the act of leadership and governance. I think if we subscribe to it, Nigeria stands to benefit immensely from it.”

Like most other commentators, the President, Arewa Youth Consultative Forum (AYCF), Alhaji Shettima Yerima, who is also a human right activist, also agrees that the bill is good for the Nigerian politics.

“To me, it is a welcome development. I remember in the PRONACO, in the draft constitution, since 18 years is qualified to cast a vote, he or she should also be allowed to vie for offices. Though we were also mindful that 18 could be very young, but at 30, one is matured. Some of the leaders we see today were already prominent at 20. Some have been ministers at a little above 20.

“So, for me, it is good for the youth. That will enable them vie for offices without anyone hindering their chances,” he opined.

Former House of Representatives member for Kabba/Bunu/Ijumu federal constituency,

Sometimes, the poor participation of youths in the political process might not be their doing and the tendency to want to obtain by hook or crook often makes a mess of the process and further paints the business of politics as intrinsically filthy. This is why the move by Nwulu has largely received commendation across the country as a majority of the people sees it as one of the positive credits that might go with the present session of the National Assembly at the nick of time if eventually passed into law

Hon. Duro Meseko feels it is a good bill that has strong reasons to become law.

“I do not see anything wrong with the bill. It seeks to promote universally acceptable norm of giving the youth equal opportunity. When Clinton was president of America at 43, he was also rated as one of the best presidents ever. I support the bill in totality. It is in line with global best practices,” he said.

He, however, advised that the affected youth should take possession of the bill and do the needful to ensure that it sees the light of the day.

“Before a bill is passed, there will be public hearing, so different youth groups should prepare position papers to prove that if you give them the chance, they will live up to expectations. The facts are there. Gowon, Enahoro, Bola Iga – they all performed well.

So, these facts are available to facilitate the actualisation of the bill.”

Abdulahi Abdulmajeed of the Centre for Public Accountability said: “It can bring about more inclusiveness. It will reduce agitation and make people feel that they have what it takes to offer themselves for service. It is time to tap into the capacity of the citizens while in their prime. It will bring back the era of Tafawa Balewa, Ahmadu Bello and Gowon, who became national leaders in their 30s and that has been the best period in the history of Nigerian development.

For Abuja-based Ekiti State born young politician, Mr. Falebita Omoniyi, who is the executive director, Track and Shield Ltd., “It is a good idea. I am fully in support of it. What the youths should do is to mobilise themselves to show solidarity and support for the bill”.

But despite the rather general approval of the bill, lawyer and senatorial candidate of the All Progressives Congress for Abia North in 2015, Nnenna Lancaster-Okoro, was skeptical about the development.

According to her, “That age is really young, because from what I have seen, a lot of our young people are immature and they are in a hurry to get rich. Quite a few of them take time out to learn and get the experience they are to bring to the table. It is not about age; it is about expertise. We need to go back to the drawing board,” she suggested.

But Mr. Tajudeen Falowo thinks differently.

According to him, the problems of Nigeria are beyond the youths. He wondered what experience the youth would draw from to justify being able to handle the myriad of problems the country faces.

This was also supported by Chief Kayode Ajiboye, who said the proponents of the bill are simply playing to the gallery. He said even the age as enshrined in the constitution was wrong as the age for the president and the governor is too low. He insisted that the positions required maturity, which a 40-yearold president does not possess, and which a 35-year-old governor does not have.

Also, Mr. Gbenga Ahmed, a reporter with the Independent Television in Warri, Delta State, considered the move by the House of Representatives as a proof that majority of the members have not much work doing, hence such preposition.

Ahmed traced all the problems of Nigeria from independence in 1960 till date on the

door step of the youths and wondered what they are still asking for when they have being in power for almost 50 years of the nation’s 56 years as an independent country.

According to him, none of the nation’s leaders as at the time of independence, including Dr. Nnamdi Azikiwe, Chief Obafemi Awolowo and the Sadauna of Sokoto, Alhaji Ahmadu Bello was up to 60 years when the nation attained nationhood. They are qualified to be called youth.

“Barely five years into nationhood, politicians were overthrown by some youths led by Major Chukwuma Nzeogwu, a soldier, who assumed they know better. But they couldn’t do anything as another youth, General Thomas Aguiyi Ironsi, who was just a little above 40 years, took over.

“But he was soon overthrown in a coup led by a 30 year old Yakubu Gowon, another youth, who was nine years later removed from office by Murtala Mohammed, a youth also in his 30s. As it was with Ironsi, another set of youths led by Bukar Sukar Dimka planned another coup that failed six months into the Mohammed regime. This led to the emergence of General Olusegun Obasanjo, another youth also in his 30s.”

Ahmed stressed that although Obasanjo handed over to an elder in the person of Alhaji Shehu Shagari, he was however overthrown in another coup by the youthful Muhammadu Buhari, who assumed he could do better than his elders. Barely 20 months into his government, a palace coup led by his Chief of Army Staff, General Ibrahim Babangida soon replaced him.

He said it was the situation of coup and countercoup that led to the coming of Generals Sani Abacha and Abdulsalam until the coming of Chief Olusegun Obasanjo, the only other elder after Shagari and now President Muhammadu Buhari that have ruled Nigeria.

He said both Umar Yar’Adua and Goodluck Jonathan were also youth as they were less than 60 years, when they became leaders of the nation.

“So, what is the shout about the youth taking over all about? They were the ones that messed up the country, yet they are the ones crying.

Check all the governors, tell me how many are up to 60 years? Even the Governor of Kogi State is 40 years and that of Cross Rivers State is about 46. Governor Rotimi Amaechi is just clocking 51 years, but he was Speaker of the Rivers State House of Assembly 17 years ago.

Remove that from his age, then you will know what I am talking about.

“The youths have wreaked havoc on our national psyche, yet, they keep blackmailing the elders. As for me, the constitution should be amended to ensure that nobody less than 55 years is allowed to be president and that of the governor should be jacked up to 45 years. Those positions required people who are responsible not babies.”

Ahmed, who is 54 years old, insisted that governance is a serious business that should not be left to youths who are not responsible.

But Mr. Kola Oredipe, the chairman of the Correspondent Chapel of the Bayelsa State council of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), said the move is a welcomed CONT’D ON NEXT PAGE

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T H I S D AY • MONDAY, JUNE 13, 2016

POLITICS/ THE MONDAY DISCOURSE AGE REVIEW OF CANDIDACIES Interestingly, circumstances as these are not peculiar to Nigeria alone, albeit in different contexts.

For example in the US, people who are younger than the minimum age requirements deliberately run for offices in protest of the requirements or because they don’t know that the requirements exist. On certain occasions, young people had been elected into offices they did not qualify for or deemed ineligible to assume the office development. According to him, reducing the age would give aspiring young men the opportunity to get elected and contribute their quota to the development of the country.

Oredipe wondered why the youths, most of whom are already university graduates by the age of 20 are being shut constitutionally out of positions which required mere attendance of secondary school attendance.

“Are you saying that those young graduates do not have what it means to lead? We are in the digital age. We hope that those old men in their 70s and 80s, who have been in power for so long will give way for the youth to contribute their quota. My prayer is that the amendment is quickly done so that it can take effect by 2019.”

Reminded that young men had ruled the nation since independence than the old men, Oredipe insisted that the military era cannot be classified as the leaders came through the guns. He stressed that the situation now is of the constitution, which he prayed must be done as soon as possible.

The Case in Different Climes Australia Any person 18 years of age or older may stand for election to public office at federal, state or local government level. The youngest ever member of the House of Representatives was 20-year-old Wyatt Roy, elected in the 2010 federal election after the Electoral Act 1918 was amended to reduce the age of candidacy for that office from 21 to 18.

Austria A person must be 18 years of age or older to stand in elections to the European Parliament or National Council. The Diets of regional Länder are able to set a minimum age lower than 18 for candidacy in elections to the Diet itself as well as to municipal councils in the Land. In presidential elections, the candidacy age is 35.

Belize Here, a person must be at least 18 years old to be elected as a member of the House of Representatives and must be at least 30 to be Speaker of the House. A person must be at least 18 years old to be appointed to the Senate and must be at least 30 to be President or VicePresident of the Senate. As only members of the House of Representatives are eligible to be appointed Prime Minister, the Prime Minister must be at least 18 years old. A person must also be at least 18 years old to be elected to a village council.

Brazil The Brazilian Constitution defines 35 years as the minimum age for anyone to be elected President, Vice-President or Senator; 30 years for state Governor or Vice-Governor; 21 for federal or state deputy, Mayor or Vice-Mayor and 18 for city Councilman.

Canada Any person 18 years or older may stand for election to public office. But to be appointed to the Senate, one must be at least 30 years of age; must possess land worth at least $4,000 in the province for which he or she is appointed and must own real and personal property worth at least $4,000, above his or her debts and liabilities. These restrictions were most recently enforced in 1997.

Chile The minimum age required to be elected President of the Republic of Chile is 35 years.

IPOB members during one of their protests

Before the 2005 reforms, the requirement was 40 years and from 1925 to 1981, it was 30 years.

For senators, it is 35 years (between 1981 and 2005 it was 40 years) and for deputies it is 21 years (between 1925 and 1970 it was 35 years).

Cyprus In Cyprus, the minimum age to be elected president is 35 years.

Denmark Any adult 18 years of age or older can become a candidate and be elected in any public election in Denmark.

Estonia In Estonia, any citizen 18 years or older can be elected in local elections, and 21 years or older in parliamentary elections. Minimum age for the President of Estonia is 40.

France Any citizen 18 years or older can be elected to the lower house of Parliament, and 24 years or older for the Senate. Minimum age for the President of France is 18.

Germany Also, in Germany, any citizen 18 years of age or older can be elected in national, regional or local elections. The only exception is the Landtag election in Hesse, where a minimum age of 21 is required. Minimum age for the President of Germany is 40 by constitution.

Hong Kong In Hong Kong, a person must be at least 21 to be candidate in a district council or Legislative Council election. A person must be at least 40 to be candidate in the Chief Executive election, and also at least 40 to be candidate in the election for the President of the Legislative Council from among the members of the Legislative Council.

India In India a person must be at least 35 to be the President or Vice President, Governor and Lieutenant-Governor of the States as specified in the Constitution of India; 30 to be a member of Rajya Sabha (the upper house of Parliament of India) and a Vidhan Parishad (the upper house of a State Legislature, in those states, where the legislature is bicameral).

A person must be 25 to be the Prime Minister, Lok Sabha Speaker, Union Minister, Chief Minister, Vidhan Sabha Speaker, Minister in the State Governments. Additionally, to be a member of Lok Sabha (the lower house of Parliament of India) and a Vidhan Sabha (the lower house a State Legislature in the States of India.)

A person must be 18 to be the Mayor, Chairman, Head and a Member (Members are variously called Corporators/Councillors/ Ward Members according to the type of their respective local bodies) of a Nagar Nigam (Municipal Corporation), Nagar Palika (Municipal Council), Nagar Panchayat (Town Committee), Gram Sabha (Village Council) and Gram Panchayat (Village Committee) respectively.

Indonesia For Indonesia, a person must be at least 35 to be President or Vice-President as specified in the Constitution of Indonesia; 30 to be Governor or Lieutenant Governor, as specified in the 2004 Regional Government Act; 25 to be Regent, Vice Regent, Mayor, or Deputy Mayor, as specified in the 2004 Regional Government Act and 21 to be Senator or Representative in

both national and local parliament as specified in the 2008 Election Act. Israel Israel pegs 21 for anyone to become a member of the Knesset (Basic Law: The Knesset section 6(a)) or a municipality.

Italy A person must be at least 50 in Italy to be President of the Republic, 40 to be a Senator, or 25 to be a Deputy as specified in the 1947 Constitution of Italy. The constitution also pegs 18 years to be elected member of the Council of Regions, Provinces, and Municipalities (Communes).

Iran A person must be at least 21 years old in Iran to run for president.

Ireland The 1937 Constitution of Ireland requires the President to be at least 35 and members of the Oireachtas (legislature) to be 21. Members of the European Parliament for Ireland must also be 21. Members of local authorities must be 18, reduced from 21 in 1973. The 1922-37 Constitution of the Irish Free State required TDs (members of the Dáil, lower house) to be 21, whereas Senators had to be 35 (reduced to 30 in 1928). The Thirty-fifth Amendment of the Constitution (Age of Eligibility for Election to the Office of President) Bill 2015 proposes to lower the presidential age limit to 21. However, this proposal was rejected by 73% of the voters.

Japan In Japan, a person must be at least 25 to be the Member of Parliament of the House of Representatives with Japanese nationality; 30 to be the Member of Parliament of the House of Councilors with Japanese nationality; 25 to be the Member of metropolitan, prefecture, city, town or village with valid vote rights; 30 to be the Governor and 25 to be the Mayor.

Korea, South President here must be 40 years; Member of National Assembly, 25, Governor and Mayor too 25.

Malaysia In Malaysia, any citizen 21 years of age or older can become a candidate and be elected to the Dewan Rakyat and Dewan Undangan Negeri. Minimum age for the Senator is 30. As of 2015, Malaysia is not considering lowering the age of candidacy to 18. Since 2015, anyone not less than 18 years and not older than 30 can become a candidate and be elected to the Youth Parliament of Malaysia.

Mexico A person must be at least 35 to be President, 25 to be a Senator, or 21 to be a Congressional Deputy, as specified in the 1917 Constitution of Mexico.

Netherlands Here, any adult 18 years of age or older can become a candidate and be elected in any public election.

Nigeria A person must be at least 40 years of age to be elected President or Vice President, 35 to be a Senator or State Governor, and 30 to be a Representative in parliament.

Norway Anyone 18 years or older can become a candidate and be elected in any public election.

Pakistan In Pakistan, a person must be at least 40 years old to be President.

Philippines · President and Vice President: 40 · Senator: 35 · Regional governor: 35 · Member of the House of Representatives: 25 · Provincial-level elected official: 23 · City-level elected official: 21 · Municipal-level elected official: 21 · Member of the regional legislative assembly: 21 · Barangay-level elected official: 18 · Member of youth councils: 15 Poland · President: 35 · Senator: 30 · Mayor/Wójt: 25 · Poseł: 21 · Member of the European Parliament: 21 · Councillor: 18 South Africa Section 47, Clause 1 of the 1996 Constitution of South Africa states that “Every citizen, who is qualified to vote for the National Assembly is eligible to be a member of the Assembly,” defaulting to Section 46 which “provides for a minimum voting age of 18 years” in National Assembly elections. Sections 106 and 105 provide the same for provincial legislatures.

Turkey The 1876 constitution sets the age for parliamentary eligibility as 30. This remained unchanged until 13 October 2006, when it was lowered to 25 through a constitutional amendment. The ruling Justice and Development Party, proposes to further reduce it to 18, same as the voting age. The Prime Minister of Turkey has to be a member of the parliament hence it has the same requirements as parliamentary eligibility.

The age of candidacy for the President is 40.

United Kingdom In the UK (other than in Scotland) a person must be aged 18 or over (16 in Scotland) to stand in elections to all parliaments, assemblies, and councils at the European, UK, devolved, or local level. This age requirement also applies in elections to any individual elective public office. The main example is that of an elected mayor, whether of London or a local authority. There are no higher age requirements for particular positions in public office. Candidates are required to be aged 18 on both the day of nomination and the day of the poll. This was reduced from 21 by the Electoral Administration Act 2006.

United States In the United States, a person must be at least 35 to be President or Vice President, 30 to be a Senator, or 25 to be a Representative, as specified in the US Constitution. Most states in the US also have age requirements for the offices of Governor, State Senator, and State Representative. Some states have a minimum age requirement to hold any elected office (usually 21 or 18).

Venezuela A person must be at least 30 to be President or Vice President in Venezuela, 21 to be a deputy for the National Assembly and 25 to be the Governor of a state.

T H I S D AY MONDAY JUNE 13, 2016

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MONDAY, JUNE 13, 2016 • T H I S D AY

FEATURES

Acting Features Editor Charles Ajunwa Email charles.ajunwa@thisdaylive.com

War against Pipeline Vandals Chiemelie Ezeobi writes that the war against pipeline vandalism in the Lagos area by operatives of the Nigerian Navy Ship Beecroft, has yielded tremendous success with the recovery of stolen products and the arrest of several suspects

“I

am a fisherman by trade.

It was my elder brother who bought the petrol. He asked me to carry them in my canoe to meet buyers.

That was when the navy arrested me.” Those were the words of Agbotou Firmin, a Beninnois fisherman, whose stock in trade was to transport stolen and vandalised petroleum products belonging to the Nigerian National Petroleum Corperation (NNPC) to the end users.

Firmin was one of the five Beninnois, alongside Sohe Soule, Gbenou Daniel, Dosspu Vigor and Sodohe Olivier, who were recently arrested by the Nigerian Navy Ship (NNS) Beecroft and handed over to Lagos Commandant of the Nigerian Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), Mr. Tajudeen Balogun.

Established as the operational arm of the Western Naval Command of the Nigerian Navy (NN), Nigerian Navy Ship Beecroft, under the command of the Commodore Abraham Adaji, has taken the war against pipeline vandalism to the creeks and islands where these acts are being perpetuated with alacrity.

Until recently, the vandals held sway from Badagry Creeks in Tongeji Island to areas and islands like Ilado, Akaraba, Solou, Kamoru and Imola communities Robot, Ilashe and Abule Glass villages, which is between Takwa Bay and Badagry Creeks. But now, the centre no longer holds for them as they have been decapacitated and their hideouts raided.

For Adaji, this war signals that it is no longer business as usual for the vandals, given the zero tolerance of the Chief of Naval Staff, Vice Admiral Ibok-Ete Ibas, to pipeline vandalism and crude oil theft, amongst other maritime crimes.

In fact, during the recap of stewardship of the immediate past Flag Officer Commanding of the Western Naval Command, Rear Admiral Raphael Osondu, it was revealed that the command had arrested 221 persons, 25 vessels and boats and recovered 150,000 litres of stolen products over the course of seven months. This was excluding the recent arrests made in the month of May by NNS Beecroft operatives.

While the ships arrested by the command were of various makes and sizes, the 221 suspects were arrested for various offences including pipeline vandalism, piracy and illegal bunkering of petroleum products.

Creditably too, aside the robust policing duties, some of the successes recorded were greatly enhanced by the provisions of Regional Maritime Awareness Centre (RMAC) and FALCON EYE, an Israeli-installed mass civil surveillance system, two facilities that have reinforced NN’s presence at sea.

The Navy’s Stance Without a doubt, the body language of the leadership often rubs off on the followers.

Same holds true for the NN. Owing to the CNS vision statement which is to, “To develop a credible naval power in fulfillment of the Nigerian Navy’s constitutional roles towards enhancing national prosperity and security,” the entire naval force has been tilted towards achieving just that.

Upon assumption of office, the CNS, Vice Admiral Ibas with a mission “To deploy a naval force that is well trained, organised and highly motivated to discharge its constitutional roles professionally and efficiently for the defence of Nigeria in ensuring her economic prosperity,” had sworn a zero tolerance for crude oil theft, pipeline vandalism, piracy

Impounded wooden boats carrying petrol products and other maritime illegalities.

According to a recent statement by the Director of Naval Information (DINFO), Commodore Chris Ezekobe, the navy has sustained its dominance in the waterways with extensive patrols and increased surveillance activities in line with the directives of Chief of the Naval Staff, Vice Admiral Ibas.

He said between March 21 and 28, 2016, the anti Crude Oil Theft (Anti-COT) drive of the Nigerian Navy received a boost with successes recorded in raids conducted against illegal crude oil thieves, illegal refineries, smugglers and other criminalities along the waterways and creeks.

Reiterating the stance of the CNS, he said the navy has resolved to ensure that maritime criminals and operators of illegal refineries are decisively dealt with, as a deterrent to others wishing to sabotage critical national economic assets. Also sending a warning to the criminals, he said, “They are therefore warned to desist from their acts of economic sabotage or face the full wrath of the law.

We have had issues with pipeline vandalism and illegal refining of crude oil and the navy is all out to make sure that this is brought to an end. That is why we have intensified our patrols not just in the immediate Lagos area but also to the fringes of our borders

This is because there will be no hiding place for them in our maritime environment.”

A Harvest of Arrests If dubbed the month of arrests, May will certainly take the lead given the several successes recorded by NNS Beecroft in that particular month. Stolen products worth millions of naira were recovered, suspects arrested and handed over to the appropriate authorities for prosecution, just as raids were conducted on their hideouts.

In the middle of May, the navy arrested and handed over five suspected pipeline vandals with hundreds of 25 litres jerrycans laden with stolen petrol and handed them over to the NSCDC. The suspects, Agbotou Firmin, Sohe Soule, Gbenou Daniel, Dosspu Vigor and Sodohe Olivier, were handed over to NSCDC Lagos Commandant, Tajudeen Balogun, alongside one Yamaha 40HP outboard engine, one wooden boat and several other recovered products.

THISDAY gathered that they were nabbed along Badagry Creeks in Tongeji Island by naval personnel, while conveying the suspected stolen products on a wooden boat towards Benin Republic.

Before the handover, Commander NNS Beecroft, Commodore Abraham Adaji in an interview with THISDAY said the products were believed to have been gotten from a vandalised pipeline. He said during interrogation, the suspects claimed they were fishermen based in Port Novo, Benin Republic and that it was their boss who called them out for the business.

He said the suspects were later transferred to NNS Beecroft for custody and further investigation before being handed over to the appropriate authority. He said, “They claimed that it was their boss who asked them to convey the product to Port Novo, where it would be sold to buyers.

“Petrol imported by the Federal Government

is meant for local consumption in Nigeria.

There is no known agreement between Nigeria and Benin Republic for the supply of petrol. In view of the above, I was directed to handover the five suspects, one Yamaha 40HP outboard engine, one wooden boat and unconfirmed number of products to NSCDC, Lagos command for further investigation and prosecution.”

Receiving the suspects, NSCDC Commandant, Balogun, who said he was elated by the confidence which the Nigerian Navy reposed in them by deeming them worthy to judiciously investigate and prosecute the suspects, said other suspects handed over to them by the navy were at different stages of investigation and prosecution in court.

In another incident in May, the navy also intercepted and smashed a cross-border syndicate, and recovered 50, 000 litres of stolen products.

The navy in one of its midnight patrols at Tongeji Island, off the boundary between Benin Republic and Nigeria had stumbled on the suspects attempting to smuggle over 2000 kegs of 25 litres each of stolen products, containing approximately 50, 000 litres of fuel. THISDAY gathered that the syndicate specialised in smuggling either vandalised pipelines or buying from other vandals, before sailing across the border to sell at a higher price to their respective customers.

Speaking with THISDAY at the naval base in Apapa, Lagos, NNS Beecroft Commander, Commodore Adaji, said these recent arrests came at the heels of the recovered 218 kegs of 25 litres each, which were handed over to the NSCDC on a Friday.

He said, “You will recall that we handed over 218 kegs of 25 litres each of stolen products. Today (Saturday), we offloaded three wooden boats and we recovered about 2000 kegs, each of 25 litres capacity fully laden with Petroleum Motor Spirit (PMS).

The products were recovered from Tongeji

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T H I S D AY • MONDAY, JUNE 13, 2016

FEATURES

Recovered petrol products in big plastic drums offloaded at the base of Nigerian Navy Ship Beecroft, Apapa, Lagos

Recovered petrol products in jerrycans

Island, around the Badagry axis on the fringes of Nigeria’s Western border with Republic of Benin.

“No suspect was arrested because the occupants of the boat who were moving towards Badagry fled and abandoned the products with the wooden boats upon sighting the navy patrol boats. They jumped into the water and swam to safety.”

On why the navy hasn’t stationed some personnel to man the area given the propensity for such illegalities in the area, he said, “Our men are stationed there and that is why we have been able to make these recoveries.

They arrested the boats and sent them to the base here in Lagos.”

Speaking on why the suspects escaped, Adaji said, “It’s not a question of not being there, what happens is that no matter how close a navy boat is, once they sight it, they have two options- wait with what they are carrying and get arrested or abandon the products and jump into the water, which most of them do.

“This is because they know that their enterprise is illegal. The recoveries were made at the wee hours of Friday at about 12.25am. It is premature to say where the products are from but they have no basis to transport these products in that quantity and that is why they always abandon the products and flee whenever they come in contact with law enforcement agencies.

“We have had issues with pipeline vandalism and illegal refining of crude oil and the navy is all out to make sure that this is brought to an end. That is why we have intensified our patrols not just in the immediate Lagos area but also to the fringes of our borders.”

Explaining what the cartel does Adaji said, “Nigerians are not aware that there is a very big price difference between the cost of petrol in the nation and at the neighbouring countries.

Petrol sells much higher at neighbouring countries and this price difference is enough incentive for criminals who want to evade the law and appropriate channels to smuggle petroleum products.

“I wouldn’t say directly that these are products of pipeline vandalism, but these products are most likely meant for local consumption in Nigeria, which people (suspects) have gotten and taken out to sell at high cost without passing through appropriate channels.”

Still in May, the navy handed over four pipeline vandals and 218 kegs of stolen products to the NSCDC for further investigation and possible prosecution. The suspected vandals were identified as 20-year-old Francis Agbaje, 24-year-old Erum Jack, 23-year-old Mathew Apaton and 24-year-old John Honfo.

Adaji, who handed over the suspects, said they were arrested at the Suntan Beach in Igbologun Community in Badagry, Lagos State. He said, “The suspects were arrested with 218 jerrycans of 25 litres each of petrol by the soldiers of the 9th Brigade of the Nigerian Army attached to the Operation MESA (OP MESA) following a tip-off.

“The vandals were arrested along Badagry waterways for illegally dealing in petroleum products suspected to have been scooped from vandalised pipeline.”

He said although the navy was responsible

tons of products that these vessels would have been carted away from national supplies.

What you see today is the testimony of our ongoing efforts to ensure that all matters of vandalism and pillage of our common wealth are arrested.”

He said the crime was an organised crime, adding that “there were nine outboard engines.

Some of the items that were recovered were four pumping machines, engines, petrol to power their boats, food items. Several hoses, few lube oils /engine oil, pumping machines were recovered from the boat. The boats have already been destroyed. Also, the navy is fully equipped and ready to fight to an end, pipeline vandalism and oil theft.”

In April, another group of pipeline vandals evaded arrest when the navy stormed Atlas Cove. They evaded arrest by jumping ship, when personnel of the NNS Beecroft, stormed the notorious hideout of the vandals at Atlas Cove.

Although all seven suspects successfully escaped, the operatives however impounded their wooden boat and recovered 27 jerrycans fully loaded with stolen products. The vandals who were heading to an unknown destination in their boat had on sighting the navy, turned and headed for the shore before they jumped into the water to escape.

Led by Adaji, the operatives also carried out operations at Ilado, Akaraba, Robot, Ilashe and Abule Glass villages, which were between Takwa Bay and Badagry Creeks. Adaji who reiterated the navy’s determination to rid the nation’s waterways of oil thieves and vandals, said all measures are being explored to ensure pipeline vandalism and crude oil theft come to an end.

He said, ‘’One of the measures the NNPC is also exploring is, partnership with local authorities that are closest to where these assets are and it is in that sense that we have the men of the Kings Guard. They are men with some root in the community who live in the area and they will be the first to know if anything is going on.

“These men have just been brought onboard to work with other security agencies mainly to provide intelligence and presence which has a very significant deterrence value. You can see that when we got there, they submitted to our control and direction so they have been very organised and disciplined.

“As a formal security agency, we take a lot of processing when we talk of arrest particularly when it emanates from the men of the Kings Guard. It is not everything that they bring up that we consider as arrest. For us to prosecute, we must present evidence and that will include the offence that was committed, the persons involved and the instruments of that crime and possibly other witnesses that may have observed.

“If in the course of our interaction, we cannot provide any of these elements, we do not go ahead and just take people for the sake of recording the number of people arrested. But indeed we have worked and made arrest together. We have handed over some people for prosecution and the processes are ongoing at the appropriate government agencies.

“Today, we went on land but you will recognise that land is not the primary area of the navy. So, we do patrol at sea

NNS Beecroft Commander, Commodore Abraham Adaji for maritime security including areas of pipeline protection and vandalism, prosecution can only be carried out by the NSCDC. He said, “We have always been working hand-in-hand with the NSCDC and other prosecuting agencies for the prosecution of people that were arrested in the course of vandalism of pipelines.”

The navy, in another major operation in May, intercepted a 10-man gang of pipeline vandals, and seized two wooden boats carrying 649 drums of stolen products, as well as other equipment at the Badagry area of Lagos.

Adaji, who coordinated the operation said although the suspects evaded arrest, said the operation and the seizure was carried out by Sub Lieutenant Godwin Enefu.

Enefu, while speaking to journalists said the vandals, numbering about 10, on sighting the naval team fled into the bush to evade arrest. He said ‘’During our routine patrol, we got information about the vandals. On getting to Badagry area to make the arrest, the vandals ran away. When they saw us coming, they fled and abandoned these two wooden boats alongside their equipment.

Unfortunately for them, we intercepted these two wooden boats from them.

Meanwhile, Adaji said the navy would not rest on its oars to rid the country’s waterways of oil thieves and vandals. He said, “649 drums each of the capacity of 250 litres which altogether gives over 162 metric

The suspects were arrested with 218 jerrycans of 25 litres each of petrol by the soldiers of the 9th Brigade of the Nigerian Army attached to the Operation MESA (OP MESA) following a tip-off

predominantly but that does not mean we will be oblivious of what is going on land.

That is why we go there also, because at the end of the day, some of the activities end up being transported on water. So, we are interested in knowing the source of the activities that spill to some of the crimes that we see on water.”

Warning perpetrators to seek legitimate means of livelihood, Adaji said the navy is always ready to fight pipeline vandalism and oil theft in line with the zero tolerance for maritime offences of the Chief of Naval Staff, Vice Admiral Ibas.

In another development, operatives of NNS Beecroft foiled vandals operations in Solou, Kamoru and Imola communities in Lagos, forcing them to abandon over 20,000 fifty litres kegs, which were to be used to siphon stolen petroleum product from the Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation pipelines.

Some of the kegs filled with siphoned petroleum products were recovered in an abandoned wooden boat in Ilado-Odo area.

With that recovery, it sums up to a total of over 8000 litres of products recovered from vandals along that axis, in two days.

Led again by Adaji, the navy led personnel of the NSCDC to raid the communities and it was extended beyond the waters as operatives stormed communities around the creeks. It was in that process that a route which links the farewell buoy, a location on sea where oil tankers wait for clearance from relevant authorities, was discovered. This route, it was discovered had pipes that were connected from the oil tankers to a wooden boat in which were over 200 drums.

Some of the drums were discovered to have been filled with siphoned products from one of the oil tanks. The pipes were subsequently disconnected and the boat in which were over 200 drums, seized. Although no arrest was made, however, in the creeks over 20,000 abandoned jerry cans marked with different initials such as MX, VTN, SNT were sighted at different locations.

In that raid, at around Ilado-Odo, the operatives stumbled on some suspected vandals who were apparently returning from an operation and on sighting the navy, the vandals fled, abandoning their boat at the shore of the sea and the navy recovered 27 (250) litres kegs of stolen petroleum products.

Speaking at the end of the six-hour patrol, Adaji who warned vandals to desist from such illicit acts, said strategic measures were being explored to ensure pipeline vandalism, crude oil theft come to an end. He said, “One of the measures the NNPC is also exploring is partnership with local authorities that are closest to where these assets are. They are men with some root in the community who lives in the area and they will be the first to know if anything is going on.”

Ordinarily, the navy’s resolve to rid the nation’s waterways and maritime domain of pipeline vandalism amongst other criminal acts, occasioned by its recent successes should serve as deterrent to the criminal elements but they keep devising new routes to beat naval patrol and arrest. Notwithstanding, the navy said they won’t rest on their oars until all creeks and waterways are safe for legal economic activities to thrive.

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IMAGES

T H I S D AY • MONDAY, JUNE 13, 2016

Photo Editor Abiodun Ajala Email abiodun.ajala@thisdaylive.com

L-R: Director of Corporate Communications & CSR, Airtel Nigeria, Mr. Emeka Oparah; Brand & Media Director, Airtel Africa, Dia Ezzaoudi; Chief Executive, Trace, Olivier Laouchez; and Managing Director, Trace Nigeria, Sam Onyemelukwe, during the Airtel Trace Music Star 2 Grand Finale press conference, in Ikoyi...recently

L-R: Sales Representative, Arik Air, Mr Yomi Whenu; Chief Pilot, Arik Air, Captain Adekunbi Adetokunbo; Ooni of Ife, Oba Adeyeye Enitan Ogunwusi Ojaja II; his wife, Olori Wuraola; Station Manager, Arik Air, Margaret Ayomike; and PR & Communications Manager, Arik Air, Mr Adebanji Ola, during the Ooni’s departure for New York on Arik flight, in Ikeja...

Lagos...recently

L-R: Chairman, Osun House of Asembly Committee on Information and Strategy, Hon. Olatunbosun Oyintiloye; the house donor to the Catholic Diocese of Osogbo, Prince Francis Olu Awogboro; Archbishop, Catholic Diocese of Ibadan and Apostolic Administrator of Osogbo, Most Rev. Gabriel ‘Leke Abegunrin; parish priest, St. Michael Catholic Church, Ibokun, Rev. FR. Peter Oluwaseyi Adeyemi, at the dedication of the house in Osogbo...recently

L-R: Head, IT Business, Samsung Electronics West Africa, Mr. Anuoluwapo Rotimi Agboola; Director, Africa B2B Display Office, Mr. Andre De Meyer; and Head, Corporate Marketing, Mr. Adekoye Sowemimo, at the launch of the new Samsung E-board series designed to help schools, government and corporate organisations enhance learning and productivity in Lagos...recently

L-R: Chairman, Senate Committee on Privatisation/Vice-Chairman, Committee on Media and Publicity,Mr. Ben Murray Bruce; Chairman, Senate Committee on Media and Publicity, Senator Sabi Abdullahi; and a member of the committee, Senator Ibrahim Abdullahi, during a press conference on the first anniversary of the 8th Senate, in Abuja...recently JULIUS ATOI

Wife of Ondo State governor/guest lecturer, Olukemi Mimiko; Governor Olusegun Mimiko; Vice-Chancellor, Adekunle Ajasin University, Akungba-Akoko (AAUA), Prof Igbekele Ajibefun; and acting Registrar of AAUA, Sunday Ayeerun, at the fourth Research and Development lecture of AAUA with the theme: “Women and Development: Special Focus On Developing Countries”, at the university campus, in Akungba-Akoko...recently

Abia State Governor, Mr. Okezie Ikpeazu (3rd left), and wife, Nkechi, during the launch of Abia Primary Schools Lunch Programme, an Abia free school meal initiative, at Amapu Ntigha Primary School, Isiala-Ngwa North Local Government Area... recently

L-R: Acting Conservator General, National Park, Abdullahi Tunde Hussain; Minister of Environment, Mrs Amina J. Mohammed; Minister of State for Environment, Ibrahim Usman Jubril; and Head, Government and Community Relations, Etisalat Nigeria, Mohammed Suley-Yusuf, during the commemoration of the World Environment Day 2016 organised by the ministry in partnership with Etisalat Nigeria in Abuja...recently

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BUSINESSWORLD NIBOR OVERNIGHT 1-MONTH

R A T E S 4.4583 9.1071

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Quick Takes LCCI Discusses International Trade

The Lagos Chamber of Commerce and Industry (LCCI), is set to hold a dialogue session on Nigeria’s international trade relations aimed at examining the current status of the nation’s trade policies in line with the developments in the global economy.

The session, according to the LCCI is scheduled to hold this Thursday in Lagos.

Director General, LCCI, Muda Yusuf said: “In a globalised world as ours, no nation can truly survive in isolation. As the largest economy in Africa, Nigeria’s international trade relations hasfar reaching implications not just for the continent but other parts of the world as well.”

Yusuffurtherstressedthat:“Thisplatformwillenablestakeholders in the international trade process to deliberate on trade policies of government, their strength and weakness, multilateral and bilateral trade agreement, ECOWAS trade protocols, how they affect the nation’s international trade relations with other economies, either positively and adversely, and make recommendations to policy makers appropriately.”

Yusuf also emphasised that professionals, leaders of businesses in the private sector, members of the diplomatic corps and top public sector officials will be available to dialogue with participants at the event.

APCON to Hold Advertising Summit

ACCOUNTING TO SHAREHOLDERS

L-R: Company Secretary, ARM Pensions, Mr. Ugo Otuonye; Chairman, Mr. Emmanuel Ikazoboh; Managing Director, Mr. Wale Odutola; and Non-Executive Director, Mr. Sadiq Mohammed, during the company’s 11th Annual General Meeting in Lagos... recently

Nigerian Equities Recorded Highest Returns on Investment in May GoddyEgene The Nigerian equities market fetched investors the highest returns in the month of May, 2016 globally despite the economic headwinds, THISDAY checks have revealed.

The market has been bearish, recording a year-to-date decline of 4.9 per cent as at last Friday. However, the negative trend in the market notwithstanding, investors, who have remained in the Nigerian market wore the broadest smiles in the month of May as the market returned 10.38 per cent. The 10.38 per cent recorded by the Nigerian Stock Exchange (NSE) All-Share Index, was

CAPITAL MARKET the highest monthly appreciation recorded across the globe in the month of May. The Bombay Stock Exchange 30 Index (India) trailed the NSE with an appreciation of 4.14 per cent. In Africa, the JSE All-Share Index rose by 1.79 per cent in May, while the Ghana Stock Exchange AllShare Index and Nairobi Stock Exchange All-Share Index fell by 3.85 per cent and 2.26 per cent in that order.

The Nigerian market outperformed even developed markets in Europe and America. In America, for instance, the Dow Jones Industrial Average recorded a marginal growth of 0.08

per cent, while S & P 500 Index went up by 1.53 per cent. FTSE 100 Index (United Kingdom) fell by 0.18 per cent, while Europe Swiss Market Index appreciated by 3.21 per cent. The CAC 40 Index (France) and DAX Index (Germany) gained 1.73 per cent and 2.23 per cent respectively. The Shanghai Stock Exchange Composite Index (China) and Hang Seng Index (Hong Kong) went down by 0.74 per cent and 1.20 per cent in that order in the month of May. Meanwhile, assessing the performance of the Nigerian equities market in May, analysts at FSDH Merchant Bank Research said it was affected by four major factors.

The factors, according to them, included: the decision of the Monetary Policy Committee (MPC) to maintain rates and possible adoption of a flexible exchange rate, the price deregulation at the downstream sector of the petroleum sector, the signing of the budget 2016 by the President Muhammadu Buhari and profit taking as the uncertainty surrounding the economy.

The analysts noted that the possible adoption of a flexible exchange rate policy may boost inflow of foreign portfolio investment into the equity market.

“The equity market still Continued on page 24

Forex Reserves Gain Positive Momentum, Rise for Five Straight Days Obinna Chima Nigeria’s foreign exchange (forex) reserves have maintained positive momentum this month rising slightly for five consecutive days.

Data gathered from the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) website at the weekend showed that the reserves derived mainly from the proceeds of crude oil sale, climbed from $26.373 billion as at June 2, 2016, to $26.401 billion as at June 8, 2016.

The slight uptick was primarily due to a rise in crude oil prices, which climbed to $51 per barrel last week. Oil

ECONOMY prices fell about three per cent on Friday after data showed the United States oil drilling rig count rise for a second week in row and a stronger dollar weighed on demand for greenback-denominated crude futures.

Nevertheless, Nigeria still faces macro-economic challenges, which have seen outflow of both foreign portfolio investors as well as foreign direct investments. Disruptive activities of the militant group, Niger Delta Avengers, in the oil-producing Niger

Delta have sent Nigeria’s oil production to a multi-year low of 1.7 million barrels per day (mbpd). Alhough oil prices are trading above $50/barrel on the back of this, price gains will not be enough to compensate for lost output by the country.

It appears that the worst is far from over as the militant group has continued to threatened more attacks in weeks to come. Furthermore, expectations of a truce appeared to have been dashed after the Avengers stated that, contrary to news reports, it is not – and will not be – engaging in any dialogue

with the government.

“By implication, funding the recently-passed N6.1 trillion budget may become something of a tall order if militant attacks persist, as Nigeria’s crude production target of 2.2mb/d is already appearing unrealistic,” analysts at CSL Stockbrokers Limited stated in a report.

Analysts at FBN Quest noted the peak in crude oil price from its recent floor in January, saying the budget assumption of $38 per barrel has started to look conservative.

They predicted an end-2016 Continued on page 24

Advertising Practitioners Council of Nigeria (APCON), in collaboration with BSP Media International, has put together an International Summit on Advertising in Nigeria.

The summit is slated to hold next month at the Intercontinental Hotel, Vitoria Island Lagos.

BSP Media International is a London-based consulting firm which specialised in providing market and industry information and services in emerging markets of the world.

While making the announcement at a press briefing in Lagos, APCON Registrar, Alh. Garba Bello Kankarofi stated that the regulatory council had embarked on partnership and collaboration effort in the discharge of its mandate. He added that the International Summit is an offshoot of such effort.

Kankarofi noted that regulation in the present multi-platform and multi-device environment is tedious: especially with the use of analogue equipments. Hence the Summit among other things will focus on emerging trends in marketing communications and the need to strengthen the regulator for effective monitoring.

CIBN Holds Annual Lecture

The Chartered Institute of Bankers of Nigeria has concluded plans to hold its free annual lecture on Thursday, June 16, 2016, in Lagos.

The theme of this year’s edition is “Sustainable Development Goals and the Financial Services Sector: The Meeting Point.” which would be addressed by the Minister of Environment/Former Senior Special Adviser to the President on MDGs; Special Adviser to UN Secretary-GeneralBanKi-MoononPost-2015DevelopmentPlanning, Mrs. Amina Mohammed.

Former Minister of Health, Professor EyitayoLambo will be the Chairman of the occasion while the President of CIBN, Professor SegunAjibola is the chief host.

“The programme has become the most important annual forum of the institute for policy makers, regulators and operators in the financialservicesindustrytoshareexperiencesandexchangeideason contemporary issues of common interest and has had distinguished and eminent professionals as guest lecturers,” the statement added.

CIBN Chief Loses Mum

The President/Chairman of Council of the Chartered Institute of BankersofNigeria(CIBN),ProfessorSegunAjibolahaslosthismother.

AstatementfromtheinstituterevealedthatMrs.AbigailOkeAjibola died on Friday 19 February 2016 in Ipoti-Ekiti Ekiti State. The burial ceremony, which is scheduled for Friday 17, June 2016 and Saturday 18 June 2016, at the Ebenezer Baptist Church Ipoti-EkitiEkitiState is expected to attract top dignitaries from the banking and finance services industry, the organised private sector and top Governments officials across the country, Royal fathers from different states and all CIBN staffs. The late Ajibola who until her death was a devout Christian and a renowned Baptist died at the age of 109.

“Nobody is ready to invest in a place where the fiscal frame work is not clear.

Therefore, it is critical to pass the PIB” Chairman, PETAN cum MD/CEO of CB Geophysical Solutions Ltd Bank-Anthony Okoroafor

24

T H I S D AY • MONDAY, JUNE 13, 2016

BUSINESSWORLD NIGERIAN EQUITIES RECORDED HIGHEST RETURNS ON INVESTMENT IN MAY

offers opportunity for medium-to-long term investors. We recommend that investors should maintain a medium-to-long term position in the market and reiterate that long-term investors should take long positions in stocks that have strong fundamentals,” they said.

In their asset portfolio allocation recommendation, FSDH favours equities and treasury bills, which they allocated 25 per cent apiece.

They allocated 15 per cent to fund placement, 10 per cent to collective investment schemes and five per cent to Real Estate Investment Trust (REIT).

FOREX RESERVES GAIN POSITIVE MOMENTUM, RISE FOR FIVE STRAIGHT DAYS

spot price for Bonny Light of $55 per barrel.

“The success of the President Muhammadu Buhari agenda rests upon whether its expansionary fiscal stance will deliver the capital spending and the jobs to make its contribution to a revival in the economy.

This, in turn, requires that it comes close to hitting its ambitious targets for non-oil revenue generation.

“These are heady projections and the impact of the 2016 budget will not be felt much before the end of the year. Beyond the fiscal, the FGN would do well to clarify its policies and trumpet its successes, given the limits on the patience of voters and markets,” FBN Quest added.

They also predicted that there would be unexciting growth this year and next.

Analysts at the firm also projected that a combination of government spending, sector-specific reforms and a modest rise in oil revenues should deliver unexciting growth of 3.5 per cent in 2017.

Group Business Editor

Chika Amanze-Nwachuku Maritime Editor

John Iwori

AgriBusiness/Industry Editor

Crusoe Osagie

Comms/e-Business Editor

Emma Okonji

Capital Market Editor

Goddy Egene

Senior Correspondent

Raheem Akingbolu (Advertising) Correspondents

Chinedu Eze (Aviation) Linda Eroke (Labour) Eromosele Abiodun (Cap Mkt) Ejiofor Alike (Energy) James Emejo (Nation’s Capital) Obinna Chima (Money Mkt) Reporters

Nume Ekeghe (Money Market) Nosa Alekhuogie (AgriBusiness)

NEWS

NSE CEO Lists Benefits of Sustainability Reporting Goddy Egene The Chief Executive Officer of the Nigerian Stock Exchange (NSE), Mr. Oscar Onyema has urged companies to embrace sustainability reporting, saying it has many benefits.

Speaking at the Nigerian capital market sustainability reporting seminar in Lagos, Onyema said at the NSE, they have a number of motivational factors for the promotion of sustainability reporting initiatives.

“Firstly, we understand that transparency builds trust which is a critical ingredient to a well-functioning market and economy. Secondly, it has been proven that strong environment social and governance (ESG) performance attracts the growing number of investors interested in the long term sustainability of their investments. Companies integrating ESG performance into their business strategy and operations show that the benefits range from improved resource efficiency, improved stakeholder relations and social license to operate, enhanced access to markets and investor confidence, as well as product and service innovation – all leading to enhanced competitiveness,” he said.

According to him, traditionally, stock exchanges have become the nexus for the interaction between investors, companies, policymakers and regulators. “Exchanges have

played a crucial role in building transparent, regulated markets and promoting best practice in financial and corporate governance disclosure among listed companies. Today, exchanges are also well suited to help with the 21st century sustainable development challenge as they are uniquely placed to facilitate action as regards sustainable business, with a variety of measures at their disposal. These include listing requirements related to sustainability reporting, voluntary

initiatives, guidance documents and training for both companies and investors, and sustainable investment products such as indexes that focus on ESG issues.

There is a recognised need for enhanced levels of corporate transparency on ESG and as an exchange we are well positioned to encourage and even require listed companies to produce better sustainability reports that are issued consistently and with comparable information,” Onyema stated.

Subscribers to telecommunications services across networks have commended the Nigerian Communication Commission (NCC) for the role it played in the process that led to the reduction of the MTN fine from N1.04 trillion to N330 billion.

The National Association of Telecoms Subscribers of Nigeria (NATCOMS), who gave the commendation through its National President, Chief DeoluOgunbanjo, also faulted the federal government for its inability to find a lasting solution to the challenge, since the fine was imposed on MTN, eight months ago.

The delay in resolving the issue, followed the federal government insistence that MTN must pay the full value of the fine.

The telecom subscribers however said the role of NCC in reducing the fine, was an indication that it has a human face in regulating the telecoms industry, which they said, was necessary for any business environment that is striving to grow, especially in an economy that has suddenly become tough to do successful business like the Nigerian economy.

The NCC, at the weekend, announced that it has

from leading companies to the majority who are yet to adopt ESG disclosure practices,” he said.

Onyema disclosed that the NSE has held ourselves accountable to the highest standards in ESG disclosure, saying in 2013, it established a corporate social R=responsibility (CSR) Unit and instituted a strategy with goals through four thematic areas of community, marketplace, workplace and environment.

CLOSING GONG CEREMONY

L-R: Member, Board of Trustees, RIMAN, Mr. Olumide Olayinka; General Counsel/ Head Regulation,NSE, Tinuade Awe; President, RIMAN, Mr. Jude Monye and Member, Board of Trustees, RIMAN, Dr. Gregory Jobome, at the Closing Gong Ceremony at the Exchange …recently

Knocks, Kudos Greet Reduction of MTN Fine Stories by Emma Okonji

The NSE boss added that currently, a range of capital market stakeholders are increasingly recognising the need for more widespread and consistent ESG disclosure, and are looking to policymakers and regulators for potential solutions. “With more than a decade of voluntary initiatives and thousands of large companies producing ESG reports, there is an increased focus on efforts to ensure that improved sustainability performance spreads down

reduced the MTN fine from N1.04 trillion to N330 billion, with a condition that MTN pays the reduced fine within a space of three years.

According to the NCC, the reduced amount of N330 billion, would include the initial payment of N50 billion earlier made by MTN to the government.

MTN said the balance of N280 billion would be made in six tranches within a period of three years. By the terms of agreement, MTN will pay N30 billion into NCC’s Treasury Single Account (TSA) with the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN), 30 days from the date of the agreement dated June 10, 2016.

Other dates of payments include: March 31, 2017, (N30 billion); March 31, 2018, (N55 billion); December 31, 2018, (N55 billion); March 31, 2019, (N55 billion) and the balance will be in May 31, 2019, (N55 billion.)

Although the House Committee on Communication is insisting that MTN pays the full value of N1.04 trillion, and has summoned the Executive Vice Chairman of NCC, Prof.

Umar GarbaDanbatta and the Minister of Communications, Adebayo Shittu to appear before it today (Monday), to explain their roles in the reduction of the fine,

Ogunbanjo has hailed the decision of NCC to reduce the fine, explaining it will encourage MTN to remain in the business of providing telecoms services to its over 60 million subscribers.

It is a good thing that the fine was reduced to a level that MTN could pay, because compelling MTN to pay N1.04 trillion as fine would have grounded the business of MTN and would have also led to massive job loss in the country, thereby adding to the unemployment situation of the country.

“I am not satisfied with the way the federal government handled the matter, making it to prolong unnecessarily, but I am happy that NCC has finally reduced the fine, which I think is in the best interest of the country,” Ogunbanjo said.

Speaking on the lesson learnt so far, Ogunganjo said MTN must have learnt its lesson to always obey constituted authority. “MTN should put aside impunity, even if it is the biggest network in the country and obey rules and regulations of the telecoms industry regulator. I am sure they must have learnt their lessons, hence it had continued to seek amicable negotiations with the NCC and the federal government,” Ogunbanjo said.

NANS Pushes for Students’ Unified ID Cards Having made wide consultations with the National Universities Commission (NUC) and the Federal Ministry of Education, the National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS) is canvassing for unified identity cards for all the 40.1 million students, which the association represents across various higher institutions in the country.

The decision to provide a unified students’ identity card for its members, was reached at the last Senate meeting held in Jos, Plateau State from May 13-15, 2016.

Announcing the implementation plan at a press conference in Lagos last week, NANS President, Comrade Tijani Usman Sheu, said NANS had finalised with interested partners and vendors that would support the production and distribution of the identity cards among various tertiary institutions. The partners and vendors include Qcuboyds Limited, E-Transact, Heritage Bank, Royal Exchange Plc, Unity Kapital Plc, Pierre Insurance Brokers Wakanow, Yudala, TNT, and ProQuest, a US-based company with the largest e-library in the world.

Citing security challenges and the need for proper data management of students across tertiary institutions, as reasons for the initiative, Sheu who was accompanied by other executive members of NANS, said the large number of tertiary institutions in the county, makes the verification of students identity a lot difficult.

He however stressed that

the planned unified students’ identity card, would not stop the issuance of identity cards to individual students by various school authorities.

“In order to address the security situation of students’ identity and to give the Nigerian students a system that will create unequivocal identification with benefits, NANS decided to embark on the unified students’ identity card initiative, that will be called Nigerian Students Uniform Identification Card (NSUID),” Sheu said.

According to him, the identity cards would be produced for Nigerian students in public and private institutions, including Diploma and Certificate issuing institutions, Vocational and Technical Colleges, Schools of Nursing and Midwifery, Polytechnics, Colleges of Education and Universities.

Speaking on the benefits of the identity cards, Sheu said it would provide students with the opportunity to have insurance package that will include financial support for students education, as well as sponsorship of students education in the event of death or permanent disability of the students’ sponsor; ability to download e-books related to students’ discipline; appreciable discounts in land and air transportation; appreciable discounts in the purchase of mobile and electronic devices that will support students’ learning; discounts in the purchase of bandwidth for internet access; interest free loans, among other benefits.

25

T H I S D AY • MONDAY,JUNE 13, 2016

BUSINESSWORLD

MARKET REPORT

Stock Market Reverses Gains to Close in Red Goddy Egene and Eromosele Abiodun The Nigerian equities market remained in negative territory last week on the back of massive drive by anxious investors to book profits.

The market was volatile in most trading days of the week as a result of the sell pressure bellwether stocks such as Nestle Nigeria Plc, Dangote Cement Plc, Nigerian Breweries Plc and Zenith Bank Plc. Profit-taking persisted last week as investors remained enveloped in the uncertainty surrounding the nation’s forex policy. Apart from Thursday that the market gained 0.69 per cent, driven by upbeat expectation about the outcome of the Bankers’ Committee meeting, which held the same day, the exchange was dominated by bearish sentiment throughout the week.

At the close of trades for the week, the Nigerian Stock Exchange (NSE) All-Share Index ASI depreciated by 1.45 per cent to close at 27,232.62, while capitalisation fell by N138.00 billion to close at N9.35 trillion.

Consequently, the year-to-date loss to stood at 4.92 per cent..

Similarly, all other Indices finished lower during the week, with the exception of the NSE ASeM Index, NSE Insurance Index and the NSE Oil/Gas Index that rose by 0.25 per cent, 1.71 per cent and 1.97 per cent respectively However, market analysts traders have again reiterated that the negative performance may be short-lived as some investors to take position for possible gains in the days ahead.

“We expect the market to stabilise on expectation of opportunistic buying from discerning investors taking advantage of the depressed price level in some stocks. We, however, highlight that macro issues ranging from delayed announcement of the framework for a flexible foreign exchange regime, as well the country’s fragile fiscal position will continue to weigh on market performance. As such, we advise investors to build position in quality names for a medium to longer term horizon,” said analysts at Investment One Limited.

Daily performance summary The Nigeria bourse had last week opened on a negative note, recording a marginal loss of 0.13 per cent largely on account of sell-off in Banking, Oil &Gas and Consumer goods tickers.

The NSE-ASI berthed at 27,598.54 points and market capitalisation shed N12 billion to end the session at N9.48 trillion. Investors’ sentiment as gauged by the market breadth index slipped into the negative territory as number of decliners at 25 stocks outnumbered the number of advancers at 16 stocks. Similarly, market turnover declined by over 40 per cent as both volume and value of trades ended the session at about 142 million units of stocks and N1.42 billion respectively compared to over 243million and N2.43 billion respectively in the previous session.

The banking sector stocks led by Diamond Bank Plc and FCMB Group accounted for 62 per cent of trade with volumes in the two names estimated at over 14 million units each.

The bears sustained the hold on the equity market on Tuesday as the NSE ASI depreciated by 0.45 per cent to close at 27,475.48 points. The

1.37 per cent recorded the prior day to close at N9.31 trillion. The total value of stocks traded on the floors of the NSE on the day was N1.58 billion, up by 30.06 per cent from N1.22 billion recorded the previous day.

The Nigeria bourse ended the week on a negative note, falling by 0.19 per cent as investors booked profit on recent gains in some Oil & Gas and Consumer Goods sector tickers. Consequently, the benchmark indicator lost 52.21 points to close at 27,232.62 points.

depreciation recorded in the share prices of UBA Plc, Access Bank Plc, Dangote Cement Plc, FBN Holdings Plc and Guaranty Trust Bank Plc were mainly responsible for the loss recorded in the Index. Similarly, the market capitalisation depreciated by 0.45 per cent to close at N9.44 trillion compared with the depreciation of 0.13 per cent recorded the previous day to close at N9.48 trillion.

The NSE-ASI closed in the red for the third day in a row on Wednesday, dragged by sell-off in key market bellwether stocks including Nigeria Breweries Plc (4.78 per cent) and Dangote Cement Plc (2.94 per cent).

Contrary to previous session, activity was mixed as volume of trades rose by 42 per cent while value turnover declined by 40 per cent. As such, investors exchanged over 260million units of stocks valued at N1.2 billion in 3,591 deals. Unity Bank Plc’s stocks rallied 10 per cent to lead the gainers’ chart on the back of the news regarding the planned fresh equity investment by Trituium while Dangote Sugar Plc stocks declined by 6.91 per cent to top the laggards list.

The Oil & Gas index was the lone gainer among the sectoral indices, largely due to gains in Forte Oil Plc ( five per cent) and Oando Plc ( 7.89 per cent) while Banking (0.26 per cent), Industrial (1.81 per cent) and Consumer good (2.22 per cent) indices closed in the red.

Bargain hunting activities lifted the equity market Thursday with the NSE ASI appreciating 0.69 per

cent to close at 27,284.83 points. The appreciation recorded in the share prices of FBN Holdings Plc, UBA Plc, Nestle Nigeria Plc, Access Bank Plc and Zenith Bank Plc were mainly

TOP TEN BROKERS(BY VALUE)

responsible for the gain recorded in the index. Similarly, the market capitalisation appreciated by 0.69 per cent to close at N9.37 trillion compared with the depreciation of

AS AT LAST FRIDAY VALUE

% VALUE

STANBIC IBTC STOCKBROKERS LIMITED

BROKER

4,588,719,894.30

29.16

RENCAP SECURITIES (NIG) LIMITED CSLSTOCKBROKERSLIMITED AFRICAN ALLIANCE STOCKBROKERS LTD VETIVA CAPITAL MANAGEMENT LTD MORGANCAPITALSECURITIESLIMITED NIGERIAN INTERNATIONAL SECURITIES LTD CARDINALSTONE SECURITIES LIMITED

1,297,084,571.64 1,185,396,814.58 571,479,876.32 371,718,442.67 308,153,241.40 300,559,530.67 296,032,503.61

8.24 7.53 3.63 2.36 1.96 1.91 1.88

282,681,152.30

1.80

274,681,757.21 9,476,507,784.70

1.75 60.21

FBN SECURITIES LIMITED UNITED CAPITAL SECURITIES LIMITED

TOP TEN BROKERS

(BY VOLUME)

BROKER STANBIC IBTC STOCKBROKERS LIMITED

AS LAST FRIDAY VOLUME %VOLUME 258,172,536

13.45

165,017,947

8.59

117,990,380

6.15

RENCAP SECURITIES (NIG) LIMITED

93,289,744

4.86

FBN SECURITIES LIMITED

63,064,822

3.28

CARDINALSTONE SECURITIES LIMITED

51,688,894

2.69

AFRICAN ALLIANCE STOCKBROKERS LTD

39,611,516

2.06

READINGS INVESTMENTS LIMITED - BDR

36,474,677

1.90

MERISTEM STOCKBROKERS LIMITED

36,417,322

1.90

INVESTMENTONESTOCKBROKERSINTLLTD-BRD

35,420,307

1.84

897,148,145

46.73

CSL STOCKBROKERS LIMITED MORGAN CAPITAL SECURITIES LIMITED

Market turnover During the week under review, a turnover of 959.917 million shares worth N7.871 billion in 17,561 deals were traded by investors on the floor of the exchange down from total of 1.263 billion shares valued at N11.583 billion that exchanged hands the previous week in 17,434 deals.

The Financial Services Industry remained the most active chart with 782.476 million shares valued at N4.114 billion traded in 10,477 deals, thus contributing 81.51 per cent and 52.27 per cent to the total equity turnover volume and value respectively.

The Conglomerates Industry followed with 59.433 million shares worth N99.619 million in 762 deals.

The third place was occupied by the Consumer Goods Industry with a turnover of 46.553 million shares worth N2.833 billion in 2,703 deals.

Trading in the top three equities – UBA Plc, FBN Holdings Plc and Access Bank Plc accounted for 288.689 million shares worth N1.275 billion in 3,854 deals, contributing 30.07 per cent and 16.20 per cent to the total equity turnover volume and value respectively.

Also traded during the week were a total of 78,666 units of Exchange Traded Products (ETPs) valued at N866,656.30 executed in 25 deals, compared with a total of 6,500 units valued at N117,637.20 transacted the prior week in 24 deals.

A total of 4,725 units of Federal Government Bonds valued at N5.266 million were traded in three deals compared to a total of 151,970 units of Federal Government and Corporate Bonds valued at N170.962 million transacted the previous week in five deals.

Gainers and losers Meanwhile, a total of 27 equities appreciated in price during the week, higher than 12 equities of the previous week. Forty-one equities depreciated in price, lower than 60 equities of the previous week, while 112 equities remained unchanged higher than 108 equities of the previous week.

The top 10 gainers were: Union Dicon Plc (N1.95), ETI Plc (N1.07), Ashaka Cement Plc (N1.00), Unity Bank Plc (28 kobo), NEM Insurance Plc (19 kobo), Neimeth Plc (11 kobo), Oando Plc (84 kobo), Berger Paints (75 kobo), AIICO Insurance Plc (four kobo) and McNichols Plc ( seven kobo).

Conversely, the top 10 losers were: Cadbury Nigeria Plc (N1.99), Glaxo Smithkline Plc (N1.79), Airline Services and Logistics Plc (18 kobo), UBA Plc (43 kobo), UBN Plc (47 kobo), Skye Bank Plc (10 kobo), Red Star Express Plc (30 kobo), Fidson Plc (14 kobo), Fidelity Bank Plc (seven kobo) and FBN Holdings (21 kobo).

26

T H I S D AY • MONDAY, JUNE 13, 2016

BUSINESSWORLD

INSIDE BROAD STREET STATUS REPORT

Sell-off Persists in Bond Market Obinna Chima

A view of Lagos financial district

AKINWUNMI IBRAHIM

Nigeria, Others Learning to Live with Cheaper Oil Obinna Chima The significant and prolonged drop in oil prices since mid-2014 has changed the fortunes of Nigeria and many other energy-exporting nations around the world.

This, according to a latest study by the International Monetary Fund (IMF) applies particularly to countries in the Middle East and Central Asia, because these regions are home to 11 of the world’s top 20 energy exporters.

It showed that budgets in oil exporting nations have generally turned from surpluses to large deficits, growth has slowed, and financial stability risks have increased.

The report stressed that in such a challenging environment, a policy of “business as usual” will not suffice—policymakers will need to adopt significant measures to put public budgets on a sounder footing, address risks to liquidity and the quality of assets in the financial sector, and improve growth prospects.

“This will be a difficult long-term process, but the good news is that many countries have made a strong start, especially in terms of budget policies,” it stated.

In the early stages of the oil price decline, most countries appropriately used their savings to cope with the shortfall in oil revenues.

As it became clear that the oil price decline would persist, oil exporters made significant spending cuts, an obvious area to target since public expenditures had ballooned during the oil-price boom.

The budget plans for 2016 indicate that deficit-reduction efforts will deepen further, with sizable adjustment measures planned especially in Oman, Qatar, and Saudi Arabia.

“Countries have generally aimed for savings in both current and investment expenditures.

MARKET INDICATOR Cross-country evidence suggests that reviewing both spending categories is sensible—for instance, the Gulf countries, Algeria, and Central Asian oil exporters all have higher capital expenditure levels than their emerging market counterparts.

The Gulf countries and Algeria, meanwhile, also have a much larger public sector payroll, a longstanding element of the social contract between policymakers and their citizens.

“Artificially low domestic energy prices are also being targeted by policymakers. Government regulations ensuring inexpensive fuel, water, and electricity have traditionally been another part of the social contract. Therefore, the reform of these subsidies (that had tended to benefit the well-off) is welcome evidence of a sea change in the policies of the oil exporters.

Oman, the United Arab Emirates, and, more recently, Qatar have gone one step further by introducing automatic pricing, whereby local energy prices adjust in tandem with international benchmarks.

“The challenge for policymakers across the region will be to move energy prices toward international levels in a way that minimises the adverse social impact; for example, through targeted transfers to the vulnerable segments of population,” it added.

Furthermore, the report showed that spending control is only part of the fiscal equation for oil exporters.

“Another important consideration is finding new sources of revenue. A number of promising plans are emerging, especially the discussions of Gulf countries to introduce a value-added tax (VAT). This would be a major achievement for a region that has traditionally relied mostly

on hydrocarbon-linked receipts.

“In parallel, some Gulf countries have been raising fees, excises, and corporate income taxes.

In the Central Asian oil exporters, non-oil taxation is much more developed, but there is room to reduce exemptions and strengthen collections.

“Central Asian oil exporters have achieved some fiscal adjustment indirectly, by allowing their exchange rates to depreciate. This has raised the local-currency value of their export receipts and related taxes. However, these fiscal gains will only last if fiscal expenditures, in particular public wages, do not increase in tandem with the exchange rate depreciation.

“Currency adjustment in these economies has also brought some undesired side effects, including inflationary pressures and concerns about stability of the highly-dollarised financial systems. Therefore, the Central Asian oil exporters also face the challenge of strengthening their monetary, exchange rate, and financial sector policy frameworks,” it stated further.

However, the report pointed out that in the coming years, oil revenues will no longer be sufficient for governments to act as the main employer of their fast-growing young populations.

Therefore, it urged policymakers to find new ways to promote private sector development and help their economies diversify away from oil.

According to the report, the Gulf countries already benefit from high-quality infrastructure, but are hindered by bureaucracy and lingering gaps in their legal and regulatory frameworks.

But, it noted that they could further improve the quality of education.

Institutional quality could be enhanced in Central Asian oil-exporting countries and Algeria in a number of areas, including contract enforcement, corruption, and access to finance.

Bearish sentiments dominated the bonds market last week as average yield across benchmark bonds rose on most trading days of the week.

Average yield across benchmark bonds closed the first trading day of the week at 13.7 per cent, up 1.2 per cent from last Friday as sell sentiment lingered. The selloffs continued on Tuesday as yield rose 0.2 per cent to close at 13.9 per cent.

According to a report by Afrinvest West Africa Limited, the sell offs continued towards the end of the week with increased activity observed on the FGN MAR2024, FGN JUL2034 and FGN MAR2036 bonds, as average yield settled at 14 per cent by the end of Thursday’s trading session, eventually ending the week up 1.5 per cent week-on-week.

The Debt Management Office is scheduled to auction N105 billion worth of bonds at the monthly bonds primary market auction. The amount on offer is N15billion of FEB2020, N40bn of JAN2026 and N50bn of MAR2036 bonds.

“We expect these bonds to clear at stop rates of 13.7%, 13.9% and 14.0% respectively.

We believe the bonds market performance in the week ahead will be majorly driven by the auction as investors free up liquidity ahead of the auction even as unsuccessful bids are redirected into the secondary market,” the report by Afrinvest stated.

Meanwhile, the financial system liquidity opened last Tuesday higher at N463.2 billion relative to N277.4 billion closing balance recorded the preceding week.

Thus, money market rates, the open buy back (OBB) and overnight settled at 3.1 per cent and 3.4 per cent respectively prompting an open market operation auction of N50 billion by the Central Bank of Nigeria.

Consequently, system liquidity moderated to N412.5 billion on Wednesday but did not materially impact on rates as the OBB rates dropped to 2.8 per cent, while overnight steadied at 3.4 per cent. Last Thursday, system liquidity received a boost as it further inched higher to N439.4 billion while open buy back and overnight rates moderated to 2.7 per cent and 3.3 per cent in that order. As at Friday, open buy back and overnight rates closed two per cent and 2.3 per cent lower week-on-week to settle at 2.8 per cent and 3.2 per cent as the system liquidity had improved 51.4 per cent to close the week at N408.3 billion.

At the treasury bills market, investors continue to show interest in the short dated treasury bills instruments as against the 364 Day instruments that traded at yields in excess of 11 per cent throughout the week.

Average treasury bills yield opened higher last Tuesday at 10.1 per cent in response to system liquidity dynamics but moderated at 9.3 per cent last Wednesday and Thursday.

Fidelity Bank, Broad Street, Lagos Island Nume Ekeghe This branch, which is situated close to a market and the commercial district in Lagos Island, is usually a very busy branch. The banking hall is spacious and has necessary features because of high influx of customers. There were three customer service personnel, four tellers and

INSIDE BANKING HALL other operations staff.

At the time this observation was being carried out, it was remarkably clean even with the constant influx of customers. Also the branch

was well organised notwithstanding that it is close to the market. The ambience at this branch was fair. The tellers at this branch were attending to the numerous customers in professional timely manner. However, the customer service officials didn’t show as much professionalism as the tellers. In general, the service at this branch was commendable.

Minister of Finance, Kemi Adeosun

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INTERVIEW

Bank-Anthony: How Govt Can Tackle Militancy in Niger Delta Bank-Anthony Okoroafor is the Chairman of Petroleum Technology Association of Nigeria (PETAN) and MD/CEO of two reputable oil services companies - CB Geophysical Solutions Ltd and Vhelbherg International Ltd. In this interview with Nume Ekeghe and Ugo Aliogo, he proffered workable solutions to the militancy in the Niger Delta. He also spoke on a wide range of issues in the Nigerian oil and sector. Excerpts: been a source of concern in the industry.

Can you tell us how this has impacted the oil industry. What role is PETAN playing in all of these?

The Oil & Gas industry is dying. Activity level is at the lowest. Projects have been deferred or cancelled. Service industries that have built capacities and capabilities are laying-off well trained personnel. Banks are no longer lending, there is tightened access to capital with decreasing cash flows, highly leveraged companies will struggle as lenders and investors tighten access to capital, limiting their ability to continue exploration and developmental activities.Rig count is almost zero, well intervention and well completion activities are down to zero level. There is increasing cost pressures to reduce and control costs. There is also rising political instability risks. We must as a matter of urgency, review our fiscal terms to maintain attractiveness and investment. Investment goes to friendly environments.We should honour our joint ventures (JV) cash calls or convert them to Sovereign Loans. Another possible scenario is to reduce government equity in these JVs to 10 percent and focus more on royalties and taxes, which generate close to 80% to the government. Investors’ confidence in oil and gas activity in Nigeria is being erodedbecause of this framework of uncertainty. This is a time that the Nigerian Content Development & Monitoring Board(NCDMB) can use the NCF to support Nigerian companies to survive this bad wind blowing in the industry. The role of PETAN is to continue to speak up to ensure that our oil and gas industry survives, is run efficiently and fairly and that Nigerians are not shortchanged in the process.

What is the state of Nigerian oil and gas industry; specifically, what are we doing now in terms of production and crude oil reserve. The government over the years, set targets to increase the crude oil reserve to 40billion barrels and production to 4million barrels per day. Where are we today?

Our production has been reduced from 2.5 million barrels of oil per day (mbopd) to about 1.4 mbopd due mainly to militancy, crude theft and vandalism. The targets of increasing our crude oil reserves to 40billion barrels and production to four million barrels per day can only be achieved when we invest in explorations and developments. These do not happen by decree. There are many factors that contribute to this. Oil & Gas projects tend to have medium - long term gestation periods particularly gas projects. The decisions we take today will shape the outcomes in seven to 10 years’ time in future. We must explore to grow our reserves and we must drill several wells to increase our production.

We have not added any reserve in the past 10 years. We need moreattractive fiscal terms, more acreage availability through mandatory relinquishment of unused acreages, strong work commitment and effective acreage management by drill or drop system.

Why have these targets not been realised over the years. Could it be as a result of delay in passage of the Petroleum Industry Bill or are there other factors that hampered these set targets?

Uncertainty of fiscal framework is one of the factors. We need attractive fiscal terms.

The failure in the passage of the PIB when the price of crude was high and oil companies were willing and able to invest was a missed opportunity.

Security challenges are becoming more complex. Also the funding challenges; inability to meet cash call obligations; pipeline vandalism and crude oil theft are also major setbacks.

The NNPC said recently it was carrying out an aggressive exploration campaign in offshore, onshore and the inland basins of Chad, Anambra, Benue, Bida and SokotoDahomey. Specifically, it said it was carrying out infield developments targeted at growing the reserve and production. Could you tell us the situation now?

We do not have much data in inland basins.

Now with improvements in technology and seismic, it will do our country great in acquiring reliable data in the inland basins; relaunch a licencing round in our inland basins. Much has not been done in inland basins. The inland basins of Nigeria include Anambra basin, the lower, middle and upper Benue, the southeastern sector of the chad basin, the mid Niger Bida basin and the Sokoto basin. Upper Benue was done 20 years ago but not very intense, drilled one or two wells. NNPC carried out exploratory seismic work in Anambra basin more than 20 years ago. No serious work has been done in Bida basin. Geological survey was done in Sokoto basin.Aeromagnetic survey was carried out in most parts of Nigeria but this only helps identify rocks and areas for future seismic work. These aeromagnetic surveys were done by the solid minerals ministry.

Bank-Anthony The data will be resting in some places. It is only Chad basin that serious seismic work and studies plus laboratory work has been done. This was suspended due to insurgency.

Exploration seismic in Chad basin was ongoing in 2012. IDSL is doing seismic work in the swamp between Epe and Ikorodu for

We have intelligent and smart Nigerian engineers. I was trained in Nigeria, excelled with a multinational company all over the world before I decided to set up my companies in Nigeria. A lot of people have slavery mindset; they still see the whites as masters.

Cromwell. Seven Energy is doing 3D seismic in the Anambra Basin. Orient carried out 3D seismic in some sections in Anambra basin.

There was discovery of gas in Komani area of Gombe. IDSL was to shoot a 3D seismic to confirm the size. I will confirm if it was done. 700km 2D seismic was planned in the Benue trough from Obuloafor up to Oturkpo, Lafiaetc and upper.

In offshore, last exploration work was done in the 80’s and 90’s, which led to the opening of deep water assets and mapping of the several OPL’s. It was done by Mabon JV with the Department of Petroleum Resources (DPR) participation as a multi-client seismic. People bought the seismic data from the company.

There is speculative seismic works done in open acreages in offshore as multi-client seismic by companies. They recoup their money by selling the data to interested companies. But individual companies carry out production seismics to confirm certain structures or more details of their production; some to explore deeper horizons.

The issue of the federal government not being able to honour its JV cash call has

PETAN, an association you head currently, played a key role in initiating the local content. The sole aim was to grow indigenous participation in the oil and gas sector and ensure the locals get preferential treatment for oil industry jobs. Would you say this purpose has been significantly achieved?

A lot of progress has been made but we are not yet there. We have made progress in creating more Nigerian service companies, vessel ownership, fabrications, rig ownership, pipe coating, logging companies, pipe laying companies, waste handling companies, well testing, well head, seismic companies, gyro companies, rov companies, training companies and Exploration and Production (E&P) companies but more needs to be done. We need to have strong Nigerian EPC leaders; we need to have Nigerian owned vessels transporting Nigerian crude; we need to scale up to bigger projects. In projects like Egina, where 0% of the umbilical was assembled in Nigeria; less than 50% of the Xmas tree assembled in Nigeria; 100% of the pipe imported from Antwerp, less than 50% of the FPSO integration to be done in Nigeria; 0% of reels fabricated in Nigeria. We need to scale-up.

We need more great Nigerian E& P companies and service company champions in all sectors of the entire crude oil and gas value chain.

There must be a deliberate policy to achieve these.The minister and government should try within the time of this administration to create at least five strong Nigerian E & P CONTINUED ON PAGE 28

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INTERVIEW

BANK-ANTHONY: HOW GOVT CAN TACKLE MILITANCY IN NIGER DELTA National Assembly will pass this bill soon?

The objectives of the PIB were to enhance exploration and exploitation of petroleum resources, to significantly increase domestic gas supplies especially for power and industry, to create competitive business environment for the exploitation of oil and gas, to establish fiscal framework that is flexible, stable and competitively attractive, to create commercially viable national oil company, to create strong and effective regulatory institution, to promote Nigerian content and to promote and protect health safety and environment.

companies and five strong service champions.

History will be kind to this administration if this was achieved.

I was at a meeting with an oil industry MD, who said most Nigerian engineers lack competence for oil industry jobs. In fact he said the fresh graduates they hired are not fit for jobs, as a result the company spends so much on their training. How true is this?

It is not true. We have intelligent and smart Nigerian engineers. I was trained in Nigeria, excelled with a multinational company all over the world before I decided to set up my companies in Nigeria. A lot of people have slavery mindset; they still see the white as masters. What we are not doing right is investing in our universities and polytechnics. We must put the right and futuristic technologies in our institutions.

We must create a unique Nigerian brand.

We must go and lecture in our institutions as CSRs. We must remove the belief that nothing can be done without connection, corruption or settlement. The mindset of slavery, colonialism and deprivation must be eliminated for us to move forward. We must believe in our graduates; invest in their education and have confidence in them. We should give them the confidence and mindset that they can make it.

When you hire right, you get the best candidates and then you have to train them to adapt to your technology and systems. We should encourage TETFUND, PTDF, NCDMB et al to invest in polytechnics(primary source of middle-level manpower) and the universities.

You are an engineer, how have you brought your experience to bear in running the affairs of PETAN. What new ideas have you brought on board to move the oil industry forward? Also, people are beginning to see the annual OTC, which PETAN organises as a mere jamboree. What would say Nigeria has taken away from this event over the years?

I have put in my experience as an indigenous oil & gas entrepreneur of more than 26 years plus working in 12 countries for a multinational oil service company as an expatriate plus my education from Harvard and Georgetown universities and commonsense to bear in my leadership of PETAN. We have initiated lots of creative ideas, contractor financing to help NOC’s bring their fields to production fast without spending their money. We are working on PETAN Seal of Quality and Competence to help regulate all oil and gas service companies build competences; achieve higher percentages level of Nigerian Content; create service company champions that can compete any part of the world and institutionalise a level playing field where competence and capabilities reign. We are creating better collaborations to expand the pie and create sustainable long term value.

We are also re-emphasising our mantra that value should be placed on existing in-country capacity not patronage. The OTC is not a jamboree for serious minded companies. OTC offers a veritable opportunity to oil and gas industry stakeholders to gather, deliberate and articulate ideas on relevant developments , trends and challenges . Our takeaway from OTC 2016 is gaining technical knowledge and making valuable contacts, exposure to new technologies and global developments, telling investors that Nigeria is still good for business via PETAN investors’ forum, panel sessions, exhibition and local content workshop; marketing Nigeria’s challenges and opportunities.

What is the relationship between PETAN and other oil industry players, particularly the international oil companies (IOCs)?

Very codial.

The Nigerian oil industry is said to be corrupt-ridden, how can this be addressed?

By creating great institutions and not personalities; instilling corporate governance in our affairs and promoting more openness and transparency. Let the rules be very clear to all. This should apply to all sectors of our economy and not only in the oil and gas industry. The spending in the oil and gas industry is nothing compared to the spending in other sectors of the economy.

I believe they have made progress in the Senate. The bill was divided into four and ithas passed through first and second reading.

The present Chairman, Upstream, the Senate Leadership and the House of Representatives are kin on passing it. We need to watch and see how it evolves because if we don’t pass the PIB bill, we are in serious trouble. Nobody is ready to bring out his money and invest in a place where the fiscal frame work is not clear. Therefore, it is critical to pass the PIB bill. The greatest mistake we made was not passing the bill when the oil price was $100 and oil companies were ready to invest and there was money for investment. But all hopes are not lost; we must pass the PIB bill because it is the key.

Bank-Anthony Security issues are giving every Nigerian a sleepless night, how are they affecting production and plans for new finds Very very bad. Lots of unexpected shut-ins.

Production is down to 1.4 mbopd and this will definitely affect new investments as investment does not thrive in unsafe environments.

Specifically, theresurgence of attacks on oil installations in the Niger Delta is a major source of concern for government, the oil industry and Nigerians as a whole, what do you think government can do to address the heinous act We need a Marshal Plan for the rapid development of the Niger Delta.Those who fail to learn from history are condemned to repeat it. We can start with creating an Energy Corridor in Niger Delta by setting up five modular refineries, gas plants; create many sustainable employments, entrepreneurs and ensure 24 hours power supply. By creating opportunities for many, business can thrive; the security of lives and property can improve.

This will take time but the result will be sustainable and a win - win formular for both the NigerDelta and the government will be created. It is not going to be easy but will stabilise the NigerDelta, a place that has not really seen any development for many years.

What is urgently needed is development that people can see and touch.

How has the plummeting oil prices

We must have a fiscal policy that is investment- friendly; also,we must honour the sanity of contracts; we must enshrine transparency, openness and consistency in all that we do. We must honour our JV cashcalls.

Going forward, we must move away from these cashcalls to a system where each company can source their funds and carry their jobs in transparent manner.

impacted the Nigerian oil and gas industry?

It has affected us in a very bad way. First, the oil firms are cancelling contracts and they are deferring their budgets; what this implies to the service industry is unavailability of jobs, low cash flow and access to capital is very tight, and there is so much pressure on cost control. A lot of companies are laying off their workers (this is a capability that they have built over time) therefore it has devastated the industry.

Can you mention some of the projects that have been affected?

If you look at OPL 245, it has been shifted and nobody is certain when most of these projects are going to take place.

How has it hampered Oil Production?

What really affected Nigeria’s production is militancy in the Niger-Delta and not the drop in the price of the crude. What the drop in price has done to Nigeria is that there is no investments coming into the country, the oil firms do not have money to handle any projects. Oil and gas projects have longer gestation periods (some seven, eight and 10years depending on the project).

For instance, if we want 4 million barrels per day, we have to start now, we have to increase a lot of exploration works, and we have to drill a lot of wells, but these things are not happening. Our reserveis 36 billion barrels and we have not added anything to it in the last 10 years.

We keep announcing that we want to increase reserve to 40 billion barrels and we are not doing anything about it, it will be difficult to achieve. If you look at offshore exploration activities, you will realise we are doing nothing; the few works that were done, were done by multi-clients. If you also look at the inland basins, apart from Chad where some exploration works were done, but stopped due to the insurgency in the north. It is important that we create data in our inland basins and create another source of crude and gas that is different from the Niger Delta. We need to acquire data of some of the inland basins such as the Anambra basin and most of the inland basins. Some jobs have been done, but not intensive.

There has been delay in the passage of Petroleum Industry Bill (PIB) and it has hindered new investments into Nigeria.

Already, one yearhas gone and nothing significant seems to have happen since the new government took over. Do you thinkthe

During the Offshore Technology Conference in Houston, Texas in May, you specifically expressed concernthat the Nigerian Content Fund (NCF) was not being disbursed to develop the oil industry, has anything positive happened between that May and now?

There is more than $8 million dollars in that fund. What you should understand is that the money is our money because all our invoices, one percent goes to that fund. This is how that fund is generated. I expect NCDMB to yearly bring out 200 million dollars to build the capacity of some selected companies (say four as the case may be). They should not give companies money, the equipment they (companies) need should be paid for and capacities built. They should also invest in our Polytechnics and Universities; we should not be condemning the higher institutions, we should invest there. Many Nigerian youths are smart and intelligent, but what affects them is the standard of equipment they are being trained with. Students in Nigeria can compete with students from any part of the world. Therefore, we should spend more on stepping up the game in terms of equipment and capacity building.

How much impact will the disbursement make in the industrywithin a short term frame?

There has to be a deliberate policy to create champions. For instance, a company that has two sets of equipment, if it has like four or five sets of equipment, it will be easier for it to work in many platforms at the same time.

Then you build the company’s capacity by financing the remaining sets of equipment not by giving them money, then, you have created a champion in that area. This creates a lot of employment opportunities because they will hire more sets of crews, but when you keep that money and it is not being used for anything, something is wrong. There is a bill going to the National Assembly, there must be an account of the amount of money that came into that fund, that what it is used for should be published quarterly in the major newspapers.

What is the function of the Petroleum Technology Development Fund (PTDF)?

The aim of the PTDF is to build capacity.

What it has been doing over the years is to send people to institutions around the world.

We need to look more in house, majority of our people are in the polytechnics and the universities. It is possible that the PTDF has been supporting, but we want visible support. What creates great institutions is investment, for instance an institution like Harvard, it has an endowment fund of $60 billion; and it can afford the best professors and equipment. Why can’t we transform our universities and polytechnics in the same way, CONTINUED ON PAGE 31

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N94.6bn Debt Restructuring Deal Lifts Oando Shares Goddy Egene Shares in Oando Plc rose 13 per cent last week as investors reacted positively to the news of the restructuring of the company’s debt into a N94.6 billion five year facility by 10 banks.

Investors had seen Oando as highly geared, a perception that has made its shares unattractive at the stock market despite its low price.

However, the demand for the shares increased last week following the debt deal the integrated energy firm had with the banks. The equities

rose by 13 per cent from N61.16 to N17.00.

A shareholder of the company and member of Independent Shareholders Association of Nigeria (ISAN), Mr. Moses Igbrude said the news of debt restructuring was a very exciting one and it is capable of improving the fortunes of the company, which would eventually lead to returns to shareholders.

Oando has made significant investments in the past few years. Unfortunately, the developments in the oil sector and economy at large

made the company to be unable to extract value from those investments. Despite the poor returns from the investments, the company continued to pay high interest. But the restructuring will bring some relief. To me as a shareholder, this is a very positive development,” Igbrude said.

Oando last week announced the conclusion of a N94.6 Billion facility provided by 10 financial institutions in Nigeria. The financing, coordinated by the mandated Lead Arranger, Access Bank Plc, is a five-year

Medium Term Note atNibor + 200 bps as a crucial part of our strategic restructuring plans.

Commenting on the transaction, Group Chief Executive, Oando Plc, Mr. Wale Tinubu, said: “In a bid to return to profitability in 2016, I am happy to announce the successful completion of restructuring our overall debt profile into a N94.6 billion medium term, five year consolidated facility, with a 3-year moratorium on principal. This is the pivotal leg in our group restructuring plan of growth via the upstream

business, deleverage via the disposal of $350 million in assets’ value in 2016 and our return to profitability in 2016, driven by our dollar earning oil export and trading activities. The company now stands diversified with higher weighted dollar denominated earnings, an optimised and restructured balance sheet with lower cost of capital and longer tenors. With the upturn in the global oil prices to levels above $50 per barrel, we now look forward to the successes of 2016, having ridden out the storm.”

According to him, the

banks involved in the financing are; Access Bank, Diamond Bank, Ecobank, FCMB, Fidelity Bank, Stanbic IBTC Bank, UBA Bank, Union Bank and Zenith Bank.

“The transaction further signifies the solid commitment from Nigerian banking institutions to support sustained growth and development of the Nigerian oil and gas sector in these trying times. Oando Plc will continue to exercise strong financial discipline in meeting obligations and our debt covenants,” Tinubu stated.

VDT Marks 15th Anniversary, Harps on Quality Service Emma Okonji

LUCKY WINNER

L-R: Retail Business Manager, Sterling Bank, Abuja, Musa Atahiru; Winner in the N1 million category, Otorkpa Joseph and a representing the Sterling Bank Business Executive Retail, Abuja, Uche Isinetugo at the cheque presentation to winner of the New Sterling Plus Cash Reward promo …recently

PENCOM Accuses FGPL of Fraudulent Activities Damilola Oyedele in Abuja Following a petition to the House of Representatives, by one Hon. George Ozodinobi who claims to be Chairman of the First Guarantee Pensions Limited (FGPL), Lagos, the National Pension Commission (PenCom) has accused the petitioner of engaging in fraudulent activities, which have led to civil and criminal proceedings against the company.

PENCOM, in a written affidavit to the Committee on Public Petitions, also accused the petitioner of impersonation as he was

never approved as Chairman of the company by PENCOM, in line with regulations.

Ozodinobi did not show up at a scheduled hearing of the Public Petitions Committee last Friday, a development, which PENCOM said was because he has misrepresented issues and misled the House.

He had petitioned the House alleging that the Commission illegally appointed an interim management for FGPL despite a subsisting order by Justice DU Okoronwko of the Federal High Court, Abuja on August 11, 2011.

“Between 12th and 15th August 2011,the commission took all the prohibited steps and more including the removal of two other directors and and the appointment of an interim management”, the petition read.

PENCOM, in its affidavit dated June 2, 2016 however denied any wrong doing,and insisted that whatever actions it had taken regarding the pension fund administrator, was to safeguard shareholders and pensioners’ assets.

It noted that several fraudulent activities by the company’s officials have resulted in regulatory

interventions and civil and criminal proceedings.

“These cases have affected the relationship between the shareholders of FGPL inter se, the erstwhile and subsisting directors of FGPL,” the affidavit read.

Chairman of the Committee, Hon. NkemAbonta, when contacted said the committee is working on the assumption that the petitioner was not properly served the notice of the hearing, hence his absence.

He disclosed that fresh summons would be issued to invite the petitioner to appear and adopt his submission to the House.

VDT Communications, an enterprise solution provider for corporate organisations has clocked 15 years in the business of providing technology services to clients.

The company, which celebrated its achievements in the last 15 years with its partners and customers in Lagos at the weekend, renewed commitment to quality service that will drive growth in organisations, at a period when business development seems tough as a result of the harsh business environment of the country.

Speaking on the general business growth and sustainability in the country, the Managing Director of VDT Communications, Mr. BiodunOmoniyi said: “It’s been interesting running business and providing services to organisations for 15 years.

Not many companies have come this far, because the Nigerian business environment is very harsh and has led to many companies going under. But for 15 years, VDT Communications has made appreciable mark in business, hence we decided to celebrate our success story in the past 15 years with our partners and friends.”

The Nigerian business environment is harsh and it is not business friendly to make investments, and no foreign investor is interested in bringing funds to invest in Nigeria at this moment of harsh business environment and this situation has left investments in the hands of local investors who are struggling to maintain their businesses in the country.

Our growth and successes achieved over the last 15 years have been centered around corporate organisations but going forward, our plans is to explore more retail business in Nigeria, in relation to our service offerings, he said.

According to Omoniyi, the company recently launched the VDT 4G LTE Advance solution, which is a retail broadband service and what it does is to deliver data to mobile devices at

the speed of light. It addresses data services in desktop and mobile devices. We have the smaller units of it like MiFi that provides data signals to mobile devices that are compliant with Long Term Evolution (LTE) technology. We have covered Lagos Island, Victoria Island, Ikoyi, and we are planning to cover Ikeja in Lagos, before the end of the month, he said.

“Our 4GLTE Advance is unique because it is very fast and it is based on quality service provision. We are the first company to offer 4G Advance technology and it comes with higher speed, increased capacities and bandwidth, and what this means in engineering parlance is that it provides quality service at the speed of light,” Omoniyi said.

Speaking on the need for quality service in business, Omoniyi said VDT already had over 2,500 enterprise access points in Lagos, from where it services different customers like bank branches, Fast Moving Consumer Goods (FMCG), government agencies, among other customers.

As far as quality service is concerned, we have done well and our customers are happy with our services. We have gone beyond that to get international certifications that will better improve on our quality service offerings.

Addressing the area of certification for business support, Omoniyi said VDT got the ISO 20001 international certification, based on quality and business agility offered by its solutions. He said VDT became the first company to have ISO 20001 certification in Nigeria, which confirms the high quality of service it provides to customers.

Climax of the celebration, was the presentation of long service awards to some deserving staff of the company. Four staff members got award for garnering 15 years experience working with VDT, while another four staff members got award for serving the company consistently for 10 years.

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BANK-ANTHONY: HOW GOVT CAN TACKLE MILITANCY IN NIGER DELTA Creating an energy corridor creates so much jobs and opportunities. For instance in Bonny town, where is there is steady light, there is hardly a case of militancy there and there are several service companies.

Therefore let us replicate this model through Niger Delta, let there be dignity in labour

so that a child must not hail from a wealthy background to have quality education.

Infrastructural challenge is a major concern for this new government because it is slowing Nigeria’s economic development. How best can poor access to electricity be address?

Let me state here that the kilometre of Nigeria’s pipeline is only five kilometer, with a population of over 160 million. In the United Kingdom, the kilometre of pipeline is 700 with a population of 62 million; in the United States, the Kilometre is 1.5 million and the population is 310 million. What this implies is that our infrastructure gap is huge, we need a lot more pipelines, more gathering points, and this requires a lot investment.

Government needs money to carry out some of these investments. As Nigerians, when we want to site projects, we need to site them optimally. When we site them optimally, access to resources will not have issues.

We must install gas plants where they would have access to gas, this is the way countries develop. If we have a power plant that goes to gas, the issue of supply going to that power plant has been solved. Then, we start worrying about evacuation of the power that becomes another issue. The infrastructure in the power sector, though we are not yet there, the government is doing its best. I know that there is a major pipeline that is in progress now, which is being constructed by one the PETAN members and that particular pipeline is one of the key elements of the power sector.

What is your assessment of the Nigerian Oil and gas industry? As a guru in the industry what advice do you have for operators and the government?

First, we must pass the PIB bill; we must have a fiscal policy that is investment friendly;

Bank-Anthony also,we must honour the sanity of contracts; we must enshrine transparency, openness and consistency in all that we do. We must honour our JV cashcalls. Going forward, we must move away from these cashcalls to a system where each company can source their funds and carry their jobs in transparent manner.

We must also leverage on proven Nigerian companies.

That will be part of our security for the future and create jobs for all our children. We must have proper ways of managing our acreages, if you cannot develop your acreage, then we should relinquish it to people who can develop

it. Therefore it is the policy of drill or drop.

It is very important that we look forward.

Government should focus on regulations and collects their taxes, royalties. Private enterprise should drive the business; investment capital goes to investment friendly areas. We must create a secure environment for investment to thrive in our place. The policies have to be investment friendly; we must eliminate above the ground risks in operating in our industry. We must create an energy corridor in the Niger Delta; develop entrepreneurs in that area, people will see positive development.

When people see positive development in

their area, it will bring down the tension.

Creating an energy corridor creates so much jobs and opportunities. For instance in Bonny town, where is there is steady light, there is hardly a case of militancy there and there are several service companies. Therefore let us replicate this model through Niger Delta, let there be dignity in labour.

Tell us about yourself and your company, how long you’ve been in the industry, the serves you provide for the oil industry etc I left Schlumberger in 2000 and set up my oil and Gas service companies - CB Geophysical Solutions Ltd and VhelbhergInternational.

We do seismic acquisition, processing and interpretation. We also do studies and field development plans. Vhelbherg(Leak Repairs Specialists)repairs pipelines, flowlines and facility leaks. We also provide early production facilities. I have been in the industry for 27 years.

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The Africanist Approach to Stronger Economic Ties Between France and Nigeria It is an absolute honour for me to be invited to co-chair this Discover Nigeria event this morning with the Honorable Senate Leader. Beyond that as a Nigerian, I am thrilled that Nigeria’s strategic and economic value has been recognized by the government of France.

Only two weeks ago, His Excellency, President Francois Hollande was in our capital, Abuja, for a security summit with our President Muhammadu Buhari, and this week, you are holding this forum to advance NigeriaFrance economic relations by holding here in the seat of your democracy and a key branch of your government.

On behalf of my fellow Nigerians, and entrepreneurs in both our countries, I want to thank the French government for taking such strong and concrete steps to strengthen both security cooperation and economic ties between our two countries. I want to thank my co-chair, Senator Larcher, for hosting us in this beautiful, prestigious and historic institution of government. I also want to thank Ambassador Gauer, Ambassador Pinecuad of Business France and Bertrand De La Forest Divonne for their tireless work and enthusiasm in putting together this event. And I also want to recognize my friends at the Movement of the Enterprises of France (MEDEF), who brought 50 French businesses to Nigeria last year, to explore business opportunities and partnerships as part of France’s effort increase investment in Nigeria by 50% over the coming years.

I am thrilled to see so many people here excited to explore business opportunities in Nigeria or for those already in our markets, to share their stories of success and long-term investment.

France is one of the largest economies in Europe and Nigeria is the largest economy in Africa. So, it makes good economic sense for us to build a strong trading relationship that will deliver goods and services and economic growth in both nations.

Many of the companies present here have been in Nigeria for a long time. Companies like Air France, Bollore, CFAO and Total have been there for a long time and have provided much value to our citizens and made great returns for their shareholders. There are also SMEs here, like Relais, who have been in Nigeria for decades and are as firmly rooted in the country as they are in France.

Other companies present are ready to export and invest abroad, and have a lot of questions about Nigeria, many of which will be answered today.

My hope is that today’s gathering will help demystify the Nigerian market for you and show you concrete examples of successful French businesses operating in the country for many years.

You may have heard the news that Nigeria, like many of the economies in Africa that rely

Elumelu heavily on natural resources and commodities, such as oil, are experiencing very tough times.

I am a realist and I will tell you in all honesty that the last year has been quite challenging, for both the government and most of the private sector.

Nigeria is an oil-dependent economy. The exploitation of domestic sources of energy in the U.S. and the re-entry of the U.S. and Iran into the oil market has sent the price of oil plummeting from $114 per barrel to as little as $32 per barrel. This has significantly impacted government revenues and caused it to take dramatic measures to protect the naira. It has surely been a difficult time, and we still have challenges ahead of us, but we are going to weather this period.

So, as a realist, I must also tell you that Nigeria is always a good bet. According to the World Bank, the highest returns on investment are to be found in Africa and Nigeria is among those countries that generate these impressive returns. In fact, Nigerians and our government have made the smart decision to treat this as an opportunity to ramp of our efforts to diversify the economy, so there will be more opportunities for investors to come in and participate in expanding the economy.

Nigeria has always been a unique country. We are not only the most populous country; we are among the most educated and well-travelled.

And while Nigerians are well

known for our positive outlook and can-do spirit, even more importantly, we have a strong culture and spirit of entrepreneurship.

Over the last two decades, we have significantly ramped up our knowledge, capital investments and accomplishments in the business arena. Our banks are not only highly regulated, which has created stability in the system, they are also highly capitalized financially and professionally, so they are able to develop and finance complex transactions in a variety of sectors across many countries.

For example, the United Bank for Africa, which of which I am Chairman was established in the British colonial era, more than 70 years ago. However, post-independence, it came under Nigerian control and had operated profitably for decades.

However, in 2005, we decided that we wanted to live up to our name and become a truly pan-African financial institution.

So, we developed a strategy to roll out in several Africa countries. We completed the first stage of the roll out and now operate in 19 African countries, where we are providing financial services for governments, citizens and businesses, particularly leveraging technology to enable electronic payments across countries and continents, including here in Paris where we have an office that supports businesses and transactions with francophone countries.

Critically, we are helping to finance major projects in the

infrastructure, agriculture and construction sector most of which are francophone countries, and we have continued to open more and more branches as we have become more established in those markets.

The second stage of the roll out begins later this year. So, Nigeria is not just about ourselves.

We play an important role in the economy of West Africa and beyond. So, when you invest in Nigeria, the benefits spill over to our neighbors in dozens of countries.

As proud as I am of the accomplishments of UBA, this is just one story of one bank in Nigeria. Over the last two decades, new laws and reforms in Nigeria have enabled and incentivized local entrepreneurs to become players in sophisticated industries such as oil production and refining, telecoms, manufacturing, aviation and other sectors. For instance, Schneider Electric is pursuing opportunities in the power space. Additionally, in recent years, large retail giants from other parts of Africa have entered the Nigerian market because they have spotted the opportunities associated with servicing the growing Nigerian middle-class and they continue to do well, even in the current economic climate.

So, in my opinion, Nigeria remains a very viable, attractive and important investment and export destination for French companies. In fact, I would argue that now is a good time to come, because it is an investors market. The smart investor knows that this is the time to enter these markets because the fundamentals of the Nigerian economy remain strong, and where others perceive risk and challenge, the glass is actually half full rather than half empty.

Let me cite some examples of the trends supporting long term growth; increased use of technology by the Nigerian population; high consumerism, meaning we still want to buy finished goods; a young demographic, which means energy for work and innovation; and increasing urbanization, which means more accessible markets for products.

So, I encourage you to come and “Discover Nigeria.” I will say that while Nigeria is a lucrative investment destination, as smart investors, you must ensure that you do the following two things; find the right partner to help you navigate the environment. It will make things easier and protect your investment; and commit to being in Nigeria the long haul. Companies like Air France and Total can tell you that Nigeria rewards the patient investor.

As you consider your entry on expansion in the Nigerian market, I want to share with you the philosophy which guides my own investment in Nigeria and across Africa. I call it Africapitalism. Africapitalism advocates long-term investments in strategic sectors that generate economic dividends

for investors and social benefits for stakeholders.

I know it works because I was born and raised and spent my entire career in Nigeria, and I have been very successful adhering to this philosophy. I am invested in the financial services, real estate and hospitality, power, agriculture and health sectors because I consider them to be strategic in that they can help unlock jobs and growth in other sectors of the economy, thereby delivering benefits to the wider society. So, companies that are involved in these sectors should definitely come into our markets and partner with local businesses to provide goods and services to our population. Other strategic sectors in Nigeria include telecommunications, ICT, entertainment and retail, which will continue to do well even in the current climate.

And there are smart, hardworking, innovative and driven entrepreneurs, on the ground, waiting to embrace you in partnership, if you would just take the chance of venturing outside of the familiarity of home and the sake of your venture and for the sake of adventure. Because working in Nigeria will be an adventure, of the best kind.

I am particularly talking to the SMEs here because you are the kind of partners we most need on the ground. SMEs are the backbone of any global economy and you form deep ties and relationships locally and employ the most people. I believe so much in SMEs, and the spirit of entrepreneurship and your power to deliver the kind of economic transformation that Africa needs that I the big corporate leader have invested $100 million to identify, mentor and seed $10,000 Africa businesses over the next 10 years to create 1 million jobs and $10 billion in additional revenue on the continent. And the good news for all of you here today is that under this merit-based system, Nigerian entrepreneurs have continued to lead over the first two years of the programme.

So, while I may be one of your partners today, I am also investing in developing your future partners and it will be a dream come true for me to witness Tony Elumelu Entrepreneurs, in Nigeria and beyond, doing business with French businesses.

To sum up, I want to thank you all again for gathering here today, and for your enthusiasm about investing in Nigeria and I encourage you all to; Believe in Nigeria; Come to Nigeria; Discover Nigeria; Invest in Nigeria; Help develop Nigeria and prosper with Nigerians.

And very importantly, take an Africapitalist approach to entering and investing Nigeria because what we are looking for are sustainable partnerships that will deliver sustainable development through the private sector going about its normal commercial activities.

So, please come Discover

35

T H I S D AY • MONDAY,JUNE 13, 2016

BUSINESSWORLD

PERSPECTIVE

Of Banks and Nigeria’s Mining Industry Akeem Ogunlade The current economic downturn, triggered by falling global oil prices, is yet another eye-opener for Nigeria to re-examine its economic bearing and possibly execute a shift from a monoeconomy to lay a solid foundation for sustainable growth and development.

One route that has consistently resonated at various fora is diversification, with agriculture as its pivot. Agriculture, experts say, represents an opportunity sector whose huge economic potential remains largely untapped.Nigeria earns over 80 percent of her revenue from the petroleum industry, according to several reports, but the sector actually accounts for less than 14 percent of the Gross Domestic Product (GDP), whereas agriculture commands about 22 percent of GDP and generates twothirds of employment nationwide.

About 90 percent of Nigeria’s food requirement is produced by small-scale farmers, who, ironically, constitute the majority of the nation’s poor. A myriad of factors have been blamed for this miserly condition, both natural and man-made. Key is the lack of access to finance and the resultant inability to invest in basic farming inputs, such as seedlings, fertilizers, implements and irrigation.

As a result, their yields have remained largely stagnant, and their economic expectations and aspirations unmet. Similarly, little or no commercial financing is available to those aspiring to build

businesses that could enhance food production and enable farmers to earn sustainable profit.

Other sectors of the Nigerian economy have lately come under the spotlight in a concerted clamour to truly diversify the economy. It is believed that Nigeria’s vast natural resources and huge consumer market will drive strong growth and attract investments to other critical sectors of the economy, including energy, mining and solid minerals, infrastructure and tourism.

Stanbic IBTC Outlines Pathway Minister of Solid Minerals Development, Dr. KayodeFayemi is convinced that the solid minerals industry is the country’s next frontier of opportunity for development, a position supported by the Medium Term Expenditure Framework (MTEF) and the Fiscal Strategy Paper (FSP). At the recent executive business session organized by Stanbic IBTC, tagged “Iron and Steel in Nigeria…

Prospects, Partnerships and Progression” the minister reiterated the Federal Government’s determination to utilize Nigeria’s industrial mineral endowment to drive industrialisation.

With natural resource portfolio of at least 44 known mineral assets that include precious minerals, base metals, bulk minerals and rare earth minerals, Fayemi identified the country’s most promising mineral assets to include gold, iron ore, barite, bitumen, lead, zinc, tin and coal. “We have good reason to believe that the available data of

Fayemi our reserves understates what our country has been blessed with by providence in many instances. For one thing, some of the geosciences data collected 50 years ago or earlier have not been updated. So we are cautiously optimistic that our mineral endowments actually exceed what is currently stated,” he said.

Nigeria’s solid minerals sector has pointlessly been operating well below capacity, with many mining operations manned by small scale artisanal miners, as opposed to the large scale actors, the minister noted, adding that Nigeria can “generate at least N5 trillion annually from mining and exporting of its vast solid mineral deposits, with several multiplier effects on job creation, state development and social infrastructure that could position the solid minerals sector as the main catalyst for national development.”

Interestingly, solid minerals account for about nine percent of South Africa’s GDP, while mineral revenues are projected to account for 34.4% of Botswana’s total

revenue in 2015/2016, and about 30% of GDP, Fayemi noted.

It was in recognition of this huge potential that Stanbic IBTC said it organized the session, in order to jumpstart sustained interface between the private sector and government with a view to developing a robust mining sector through the public private partnership model, Chief Executive, Stanbic IBTC Holdings PLC, Sola David-Borha stated. In so doing, the economic diversification agenda of the current administration would receive the desired impetus and create a win-win situation for all stakeholders.

“The 2016 Stanbic IBTC Iron and Steel Business conference was conceived to tap into the economic diversification drive of government by bringing together stakeholders from both the public and private sectors to share deep insights into the opportunities in the solid minerals sector, which has the potential to rival the petroleum sector in revenue generation,” David-Borha said.

“As a developmental partner,” she added, “Stanbic IBTC will continue to take the lead in identifying opportunities that could be tapped into for growth through public private partnerships.”

Echoing a similar conviction was the Head of Mining at Standard Bank, Anders Alfredson, who highlighted some of the reasons to invest in the iron and steel industry.These include import substitution opportunity, potential to develop domestic iron ore and other steel raw material resources,

and abundance of attractivelypriced energy sources available locally, among others. Future demand growth, Alfredson added, has created an opportunity to develop the domestic industry, a window that Standard Bank, with its strong mining franchise, is ready to, through Stanbic IBTC, partner with local players to develop as well as use its global network to attract investment into the country.

“Standard Bank, through Stanbic IBTC, is open to work with its existing in-country client base on potential opportunities to develop an integrated iron ore to steel player,” Alfredson said, adding, “Standard Bank would be able to leverage its global network to identify potential candidates for strategic investment into Nigeria.”

In Nigeria, the public sector has historically designed, funded, and executed development projects.

But these projects, characterized by inefficienciesand red-m, have consistently failed to deliver optimum benefits, leading to severe drawbacks for business and the economy. Theresult is stagnant economic growth and grinding poverty among Nigerians. However, with the gradual diversification of the economy, which the private sector is expected to drive, opportunities would be created and if taken would subsequently accelerate economic recovery and growth.

- Ogunlade is of the Centre for the Promotion of Enterprise and Business Best Practice, Wuse 2, Abuja

36

T H I S D AY • MONDAY, JUNE 13, 2016

BUSINESS/MONEYGUIDE

Firm Seeks Technology Expansion to Abuja Nume Ekeghe With little focus on the technology ecosystem in Abuja, the Emerging Platform Group, a technology solutions company created by Ventures Platform (VP), an innovation hub has disclosed plan to expand to the federal capital territory.

At the core of VP’s value proposition is a 16-week hybrid incubation programme, through which it intends to identify, support and fund innovative ideas and enterprises in the e-agriculture, e-health care, Fintech, e-government, ICT and other technology inclined areas, thereby bringing innovative

ideas from concept to reality.

The incubation programme, according to the firm, offers accepted start-ups a unique mix of workspace, business strategy and capacity building, short term residency for accepted fellows and seed funding for innovative ideas.

In a statement at the weekend, the Founder of Ventures Platform, Mr. Kola Aina said: “We believe this mix of complete support provides early stage startups the tools needed to survive, grow and thrive ultimately. In addition to programs and a rigorous curriculum, we provide seed funding for companies that

show promise.”

The first incubation cycle will take place from August to November 2016. The selection committee will be made up of experienced mentors that will be assigned to mentor the cohorts during their incubation period.

By 2020, Ventures Platform hopes to have incubated 160 start-ups, become one of the Top 5 technology companies generating combined annual revenues of $200million, improve the Tech ecosystem in Abuja and Nigeria at large and leverage more partnerships and collaboration to build the ecosystem.

Ecobank: Why We Introduced Agency Banking Ecobank has said its introduction of agency banking services was to increase its retail distribution network, which allows the bank provide basic banking services to its customers as well as offer payment services such as bank transfers, bill payments and airtime top-up to the general public.

The agency banking model designed by the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) is a financial inclusion strategy to make banking services available to the general public.

According to Head, Cards and e-Banking, Ecobank,

AyotundeKuponiyi, agency banking is a part of the bank’s distribution strategy to take banking service to the door-step of the customer, adding that, it offers greater convenience and accessible financial services in a cost effective and secure manner Ecobank had introduced agency banking service early in the year. The agent partners already offering this service in Lagos as Buymore Supermarket chain (in Agungi-Lekki, Kilo Surulere, Ikeja GRA), Kenzo Retail Supermarket chain (in Lekki, Festac and Apapa)

and Save-a-Lot Supermarket in Egbeda.

Banking services provided by the agents banking locations include opening Ecobank Quick Account, cash withdrawal and deposit into Ecobank accounts; funds transfers into any bank account in Nigeria, bills payment (utilities, cable subscription, etc), mobile phone airtime top up amongst other services.

Ecobank agency banking service is aimed at offering affordable access to financial services to promote and deepen financial inclusion in the Nigeria economy.

Sterling Bank Rewards Trader, Others in Promo Mr. Augustine Chijioke, a spare parts dealer in the Sabongari area in Kano and Mr. Joseph Otorkpa, a retired Chief Accountant at the Supreme Court, Abuja have emerged millionaires in the on-going ‘New Sterling Plus Cash’ reward scheme season two organised

by Sterling Bank.

Also, Rev. George Bako and Mr. Yakubu Bashir were N500,000 richer. The winners were selected via an electronic raffle draw held at Sterling Bank’s head office in Lagos and attended by representatives from the National Lottery Commission (NLRC) and the Consumer Protection Council (CPC).

According to the bank, 30 customers that won N100,000 each while 289 others had

been rewarded with the sum of N50,000 each for their participation in the promo to date.

In the first season of the promo, the bank stated that it paid out a total of over N40 million. Five customers of the bank won N1 million each, six won N500,000 each, 70 others became N100,000 richer, while 579 customers went home with the sum of N50,000 each.

Chijioke who could not hide his excitement at the presentation of the prize money commended the bank for fulfilling its promise of rewarding customer loyalty, adding that “this will remain memorable to me as long as l liveas this will be a great support to my business”.

He said further: “One can best imagine what is happening to me because this can only be

God. I found it very difficult to believe the news when l got a call from Sterling Bank that l had won a million naira. In fact, l could not rejoice, I was just calm. I was still in doubt until this was reconfirmed to me when l got to my branch. l thank Sterling Bank for this gesture and assure that l will remain a good ambassador of the brand.”

In the same vein, Bashir who went home with the sum of N500,000 said the gesture will go a long way to reinforcing customers’ confidence in the Bank and lead to increased patronage.

“Sterling Bank has fulfilled its promise to enrich the lives of its customers and on behalf of other winners, l want to say a big thank you to Sterling Bank.”

FCMB Women Donate Educational Materials About 1,000 underprivileged kids in primary schools in Lagos, Kano and Delta states had cause to rejoice last month courtesy of the First City Monument Bank (FCMB) Women. This followed the donation of school bags filled with educational materials to each of the school children by the female staff of the bank.

The materials included notebooks, biros, pencils, sharpeners, erasers, crayons, among others.

Dictionaries were also distributed to help with language usage and grammar.

The three schools that benefited from the gesture are, Alaba Primary School, Mushin in Lagos; Ugbolokoso Primary School and Ijakpa

Primary School, both in Warri Delta state as well as Zango Primary School, Kano state.

The donations were made to mark this year’s Children’s Day celebration held recently.

According to a statement, in addition, branches of FCMB across the country hosted pupils from various schools, under the theme, “Kids Banking Excursion Programme,” where they were exposed to the general dynamics of banking, financial literacy and how to cultivate savings habit from an early age.

Moreover, an essay writing initiative, with the topic, ‘’Why I Love Nigeria’’, was organised by the bank for children of its employees and customers.

Speaking during the presentation of the school bags and educational materials to the pupils, FCMB’s Vice President, Human Resources and Strategy, Felicia Obozuwa, restated the bank’s commitment to the educational development and welfare of children.

“Beyond celebrating the Children’s Day, this gesture on the part of FCMB Women and indeed the Bank is aimed at inspiring our young ones to become great men and women.

A school bag is quite symbolic.

It gives a child confidence, and makes them enjoy going to school, to get the much needed education, which gives them hope for a bright future.

Minister of Communications, Adebayo Shittu

MARKET INDICATORS MONEY AND CREDIT STATISTICS

(MILLION NAIRA)

March 2016 Broad Money (M2)

20,470,436.00

-- Narrow Money (M1)

9,040,817.68

---- Currency Outside Banks

1,441,365.03

---- Demand Deposits

7,599,452.65

-- Quasi Money

11,429,618.32

Net Foreign Assets (NFA)

5,551,714.27

Net Domestic Assets(NDA)

14,918,721.73

-- Net Domestic Credit (NDC)

22,664,815.74

---- Credit to Government (Net)

3,782,578.01

---- Memo: Credit to Govt. (Net) less FMA

4,991,246.39

---- Memo: Fed. and Mirror Accounts (FMA)

-1,208,668.38

---- Credit to Private Sector (CPS)

18,882,237.73

--Other Assets Net

-7,746,094.02

Reserve Money (Base Money)

5,758,634.07

--Currency in Circulation

1,811,090.48

--Banks Reserves

3,947,543.59 • Source - CBN

MANAGED FUNDS Initial Price (N) Stanbic Balanced Fund

Buying Price(N)

Selling Price

1,660.29

1,685.29

Stanbic IBTC NEF

1,000.00

11,002.32

11,326.67.11

Stanbic SIBond

20

120.47

120.47

Stanbic IBTC Ethical

1

1.10

1.13

Stanbic IBTC GIF

142.90

143.38

UBA Balanced Fund

1.2563

1.2493

UBA Bond Fund

1.3443

1.3443

UBA Equity Fund

0.8205

0.8074

UBA Money Market Fund

1.1510

1.1510

ARM Aggressive Growth Fund

N13.1141

N13.5095

ARM Discovery Fund

N288.9978

N297.7112

ARM Ethical Fund

N22.6462

N23.3290

ARM Money Market Fund

13.1161 (Yield % ) • Monetary Policy Rate - 13%

OPEC DAILY BASKET PRICE AS AT 9 June 2016 The price of OPEC basket of thirteen crudes stood at $48.02 a barrel on Wednesday, compared with $47.76 the previous day, according to OPEC Secretariat calculations. The new OPEC Reference Basket of Crudes (ORB) is made up of the following: Murban (UAE), Saharan Blend (Algeria), Girassol (Angola), Oriente (Ecuador), Iran Heavy (Islamic Republic of Iran), Basra Light (Iraq), Kuwait Export (Kuwait), Es Sider (Libya), Bonny Light (Nigeria), Qatar Marine (Qatar), Arab Light (Saudi Arabia) and Merey (Venezuela).

SOURCE: OPEC headquarters, Vienna

37

T H I S D AY • MONDAY, JUNE 13, 2016

MARKET NEWS

ETI Boss Assures Shareholders of High Returns Goddy Egene and Eromosele Abiodun

The Group Chief Executive Officer of Ecobank Transnational Incorporated (ETI), Mr. Ade Ayeyemi last Friday said the bank remained committed to creating shareholders’ value by ensuring that its cost-on-equity is lower than return-on-equity going forward.

Addressing stockbrokers during the presentation of the bank’s “Facts behind the figures” at the Nigerian Stock Exchange (NSE) in Lagos, Ayeyemi said: “As we recognise places that generate returns below cost of capital, we need to take action. If we don’t take action, then we are not good custodians of assets that were given to us.”

T H E

He explained that the bank would invest where it has sustainable competitive advantage in order to capture more market share across the African continent.

According to him, the bank would re-visit its operational strategy in the high potential markets, while considering constructive exit from low potential markets.

N I G E R I A N

“Our aspiration in Kenya, for instance, is not to be one of the top three because we don’t actually have to be one of the top three to win in Kenya. If we can get return-on-equity higher than cost-on-equity in that market, our system will be better. We want to look at Kenya as the fulcrum through which we hold the whole Central, Eastern and Southern

STO C K

Africa and we believe that if we could do that, we will get an economic of scale.

“Now, there are certain markets where we need to revisit our investment strategy.

Like we said, it is about the form of presence and the form of presence because the technology, innovation these days and telecommunication just allow us to be able to participate in

E XC H A N G E

the market not all along the day, but if we can participate in the market electronically and with technology, it will make it possible for us to connect with customers and people that are buying and selling for various purposes. It does give us enough advantage and that is what I mean when I say that we will revisit our investment strategy,” he said.

38

T H I S D AY • MONDAY, JUNE 13, 2016

CITYSTRINGS

Acting Features Editor Charles Ajunwa Email charles.ajunwa@thisdaylive.com

The Rampage in Auchi Polytechnic Adibe Emenyonu writes on the closure of Auchi Polytechnic following the violent protest by students over the no school fee, no exams policy

W

ednesday, June 2, 2016 began like an ordinary day filled with hopes and aspirations because there was no incline that trouble is in the air at Federal Polytechnic, Auchi in Estako West Local Government Area of Edo State.

The reason is that regular students have vacated, leaving the part-time students to embark on their semester examinations.

But just as the students were getting seated, pandemonium broke out. First, it started like an argument between some students and security personnel over the propriety of the students to seat for examinations without paying their tuition fees.

According to an insider who pleaded anonymity, what escalated the argument was the enforcement the school’s management policy of no tuition fee, no examination by the security men on campus who apparently are working on instruction.

Trouble began when some of the students tried to force their way into the examination hall and met stiff resistance from security men who prevented them from sitting for their exams in accordance with the directives of management.

Consequently, some of the students who were said to have forced their way into the examination hall had their examination booklets tore by the security.

This provoked the violent protest that greeted the school campus and its environ as scores of students both those involved and the innocent ones sustained serious injuries over the alleged refusal of the management of the institution to allow students who had not paid their school fees to sit for examination.

Apart from that, the violence was also visited on infrastructure by the rampaging students as they had to vent their anger on any property of the school they could lay hands on, coupled with the alleged sporadic shooting by some of the armed security personnel of the school which caused most of the monumental destructions recorded.

At the end of the rampage according to a source close to the scene, over 50 vehicles belonging to some staff and management were said to have been destroyed while some offices had their louvers smashed in the confusion that lasted for over four hours.

Corroborating the earlier information on the cause of the riot, one of part-time students who refused to give her name, said “the insistence by some students to be allowed to take the examination, and the resistance by the security agent on ground to implement management’s new policy of no tuition fee, no exams led to the violent protest.”

The student blamed the school management for the crisis, saying majority of the part-time students are workers who are married and have families to take care of.

Besides, she said many of them may not have received their salaries for the past two month plus, and therefore, find it extremely difficult to make ends meet.

“For the acting Rector to come up with this harsh policy without considering the present econonic reality on ground is most unfortunate. We never had this kind of problem with the last Rector because students were given the oppotunity to even stagger payment of their schools fees to make it convenient for them. But the acting Rector just came in and slammed us with this policy of no school fees, no exams,” she lamented.

Some other students who spoke on condi-

Protesting students

tion of anonymity, said it was unfair to deny them the chance to take their exams.

“We are protesting because the school management prevented us from writing our first semester examination on the account that we are yet to pay our fees. The school management is not fair to us and we want the policy reversed,” one of them said.

Reacting to the development, the Dean, School of Evening Studies, Mr. Mahmmud Garuba, faulted the protest by the students.

Garuba said that the management had announced the” no school fees, no exam” policy prior to the commencement of the examinations.

“Those that were denied access into the examination hall were not students; as they have not registered since they claimed to have gained admission into the polytechnic.

At the end of the rampage according to a source close to the scene, over 50 vehicles belonging to some staff and management were said to have been destroyed while some offices had their louvers smashed in the confusion that lasted for over four hours

A damaged car

“Enough sensitisation was done on the “no school fees, no examination” policy by the management and for them to go on riot and destroy properties of the institution, it is unacceptable,” he said.

Also reacting to the ugly incident, Public

Relations Officer of the polytechnic, Mr. Mustapha Oshiobugie, said that those prevented from writing the examination were not registered students of the institution.

“Some students who have not paid their school fees are the ones fomenting trouble on campus. Properties have also been destroyed by these same students.

The situation however has been brought under control but the school has been closed down indefinitely,” he said.

Although the tension may have died as claimed by the polytechnic image maker, it is however, the beginning of more trouble for 95 students of the school who have been remanded in prison custody following their alleged involvement in the violent protest.

According Edo State police command, the students were arrested after protesting and destroying the school properties including vehicles.

State Commissioner of Police, Chris Ezike, who visited the institution the following day to ascertain the level of damage, described the incident as unfortunate and the highest order of impunity.

The Edo police boss who vowed to arrest other students that joined in the destruction, said “the school library and computer laboratory were destroyed and vandalised.”

While disclosing that the police had to fire tear-gas canisters to disperse the students who he claimed had set bonfire on the high way, Ezike pointed out that those charged to court were remanded in prison custody till the 29th of June.

39

T H I S D AY • MONDAY, JUNE 13, 2016

PERSPECTIVE

Climate Change: A Battle between the Industrialised Rich and Africa Odimegwu Onwumere There is a battle of interest between industrialised countries and Africa on how to alleviate the effects of climate change leading to different conferences being held. The much publicised were the Conference of Parties – known as COP15 – held in 2009; the United Nations, UN, climate talks in Warsaw, Poland, tagged the COP19 – the 19th Conference of Parties 2013; the pre-COP planned for Venezuela in 2014. The most recent is the 21st Conference of Parties, also – known as COP21 – held in Paris in 2015.

Lakes are still drying in Africa, unpredictable rainfalls are being experienced, there is continuous rise of temperature, brunting weather molds, water supply and quality shortages, agriculture and food decline, human health worsening, shelter and ecosystems lacerating, erosion taking over landscapes, crop and food shortages and many others characterising the environment, upon governments and groups are gathering to talk about measures to arrest the effects of climate change.

Godwin Ojo on his return to Nigeria from the 21st Conference of Parties (also known as COP21) held in Paris in 2015, which attracted roughly 50,000 participants including 25,000 official delegates from governments, intergovernmental organisations, UN agencies, NGOs, and civil society, lamented about the fight of interest. He is the Executive Director of Environmental Rights Action and was one of the representatives of 195 countries that were gathered in Paris to adopt a novel pact on how to conduct mitigation and adaptation measures concerning climate change.

His expression-of-grief after returning from the COP21 stemmed from the fact that there was a battle of interest between the industrialised rich countries and poor countries at the COP21 over economic interest they gain through industrial productions even when such activities undermine the environment.

He nearly regarded the COP21 as a talking jamboree, saying that there was dearth of penalty stated in the case where any country fails the reduction of their emission targets; this suggests that the developed countries are meting out unfair treatments to developing countries, with their frail ambition in cutting climate change, and making Africa to lose billions of money to the rest of the world.

“COP21 was almost a talking jamboree, except that a historic treaty was signed.

The outcome was long predicted. It was a continued fight between industrialised rich countries of the world and the poor countries of the world. Despite the energy and time put into the talks, the governments represented the voice of corporations far more than the citizens they govern,” Ojo said.

Africa is said to be at the centre stage of feeling the ruins of climate change while the rich countries are gearing towards a new global measures on emissions, due to their economic interest. Where the developed countries made the notion known is called the Kyoto Protocol – where they wanted to strike a deal on the new laws for emission. But countries that include Saudi Arabia, Bolivia, China, Venezuela called “the like-minded developing nations” kicked hard against the deal that the developed world was striking on emission.

After the Kyoto Protocol, Nnimmo Bassey, well-known environmental activist from Nigeria and founder of Home of Mother Earth Foundation, HOMEF, said that in the COP, as at others, Japan, Canada, the USA and Australia continued an alarming climate-operational quartet, locking the planet on the unpreventable path of fugitive global warming.

Bassey said, “We recall that Japan was the first country to signify that they would not go ahead with another period of the Kyoto Protocol, the only piece of global legally binding, albeit weak, agreement aimed at curtailing emissions to save the planet.

“A further downside of the COP was pointed by the chief negotiator for China who noted that a developed country delegate gave ‘multiple signs that it was utterly unwilling to take the UN climate process seriously, the

has impacted on the existence of man, animal and vegetation, threatening to alter the whole ecological balance of the sub-region,” Buhari added.

Receding Lake Chad Basin

integrity of the talks was further jeopardised.”

Empty talk on climate change Without doubt, there are the ghastly effects of climate change affecting the rise of the global population without access to electricity, whereas the developed countries body language suggests that they love their industries that contribute to the menace on the environment instead of cut down their emission. But when conferences are held to cushion the effects of climate change, heavy polluters and corporations are fingered to dominate the conference, as according to Jagoda Munic, Chairperson of Friends of the Earth International, “with their empty talk”.

Munic was among the persons that walked out at the Conference of Parties – COP15 in 2009 – in Copenhagen. He lamented, “While people around the world are paying with their lives and livelihoods, and the risk of runaway climate change draws closer, we simply could not sit by this egregious inaction. Corporate profits should not come before peoples’ lives.”

What Ojo was crying about today – of the industrialised countries not interested in curbing climate change – led to activists walking out of the UN climate talks in Warsaw, Poland, tagged the COP19 – the 19th Conference of Parties to the UN Framework Convention on Climate Change – which ended on November 23, 2013, with delegates not reaching a far compromise on how to fight global warming.

Bassey said that the walk out sent a strong signal that “the days of empty talks must come to an end.”

“They sent a strong signal that the pre-COP planned for Venezuela in 2014 and COP21 planned for Paris in 2015 must be different significantly from the climate games being currently played in these events,” Bassey, said.

Many rather saw the conference as a waste of energy.

Martin Kaiser of Greenpeace Germany, said, “The climate conference in Warsaw was a waste of energy. It was already clear by midweek that small steps forward would be sold as successes but would not help us to negotiate a global climate protection agreement by 2015.”

Simon Anderson, Head of climate change group at the International Institute for Environment and Development, IIED, said, “There is no sense from the outcomes of Warsaw that climate justice is any closer than before the COP was inaugurated. The delays in countries disclosing how they will address reducing greenhouse gas emissions continue. It would seem that we are moving almost inevitably to a 4C degree warmer world.”

While there was an agreement that recognised limiting temperature rise to under I.5 degrees at the COP21, as was harangued by scientists and pushed by global civil society groups, it has been assisted within a two degrees development alleyway. This was even as Ojo gave his nod that heavy polluters of the COP should be shown the exit door in order to demonstrate a point and bar shoddy energy companies that are in the business of colossal emissions not to be among the team of decision making process. Ojo frowned that the COP21 ended in talks without concrete measures put in place to the “legally binding and universal agreement on climate”, which was what the conference was meant.

The same was the fate of the Conference

of Parties – COP15 in 2009 – in Copenhagen; it dashed the hopes of many. Dr. Anderson said, “The need for both finance and disbursal mechanisms that genuinely reflect and respond to the needs of countries and people that need to adapt and become more climate resilient become even more important. In the absence of agreement on a mid-term target and a clear pathway, poor and vulnerable countries are unable to understand how the developed countries are going to deliver the promised target of US$100 billion annually by 2020.

Looking at decisions related to long term finance, developing countries can see a few gains, but there were reassuring words and little else.”

Effects of failed talks on Africa Talks have been made in different quarters among stakeholders that countries in the West like the United States, China, and the European Union account for almost 50 per cent of greenhouse gas emissions around the globe, whereas Africa suffers the brunt most.

While speaking in Abu Dhabi, the United Arab Emirates in February 2016 during the 2016 World Future Energy Summit, President Muhammadu Buhari lamented of how Africa was already doomed from the outcomes of climate change.

The billions of money that Africa loses to the rest of the world was captured by the Jubilee Debt Campaign, 15 July 2014, saying, “New research published today by 10 UK and African NGOs reveals Africa is losing $192 billion every year to the rest of the world – almost six and a half times the amount of ‘aid’ given back to the continent. This research is the first attempt to calculate Africa’s losses across a wide range of areas. These include: illicit financial flows; profits taken out of the continent by multinational companies; debt payments; brain drain of skilled workers; illegal logging and fishing and the costs incurred as a result of climate change.”

Ojo made a proposal for unrestrained de-carbonisation of the Nigeria’s economy and the energy sector. He wanted Nigeria to acknowledge and encourage an energy changeover from oil, gas, coal and other fossil fuels by 2030, by the governments divesting public finance, subsidies and loans for oil, gas and coal.

He believed that renewable energy development was the key to helping the environment if the governments could channel the money into this sector. Buhari’s evidence was that there are droughts and floods in Africa as a result of climate change.

The bewildered President of Nigeria showed expression in the areas of the extreme drying up of the Lake Chad to just about 10 per cent of its original size. He said that this is having depressingly crash on the livelihood of millions of people.

“With all due respect to our neighbours, Nigeria has been worst hit by the drying up of the Lake Chad and we are hoping that the global community will support the process of halting the drying up of the lake,” Buhari said.

The president outlined that land erosion is threatening farming, forestry, town and village peripheries in the middle and southern part of Nigeria and in some areas, major highways.

“Desert encroachment in Niger, our northern neighbour and in far northern Nigeria, at the rate of several hundred meters per annum,

As climate change goes on in Africa About $16.9 billion, according to the Federal Government of Nigeria Report of a Post Disaster Needs Assessment conducted between November 2012 and March 2013, was lost to infrastructure, physical and strong assets and diagonally economic sectors due to the effects of a 2012 flood adversity in Nigeria.

There is apprehension that that over 180 million people in sub-Sahara Africa alone risk death by the end of the century as the climate change goes on. What this means is that they are pronto the effects of change in rainfall, lower crop yields, heat wave and so many others that are yielding to human tension, mitigation and conflict. The population of people without access to electricity is rife in Africa with the unrepentant characteristics of energy challenges.

The 2014 Africa Energy Outlook, the International Energy Association, gave a rough estimation of 620 million living in the absence of electricity and many in the number of 730 million using risky methods as means of cooking. This does not leave about 600,000 people from dying as a result of indoor pollution from over-dependence on biomass for cooking. In looking for ways to curb the menace of climate change and make provision for energy, there have been different alliances the United Nations, including Africa, had formed to develop sustainable energy.

There have been the Sustainable Energy for All (SE4ALL) Initiative; Sustainable Development Goals (particularly Goal Seven on energy); UN Climate Change Conference Paris 2015; African Energy Leaders Group (AELG) at the World Economic Forum (WEF) Davos 2015; Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC).

Others are Friends of the Earth International; the International Trade Union Confederation; Pan-African Climate Justice Alliance, Bolivian Platform on Climate Change, Jubilee South (APMDD), 350.org; Greenpeace; WWF; Oxfam; ActionAid; and the Philippines Movement on Climate; Africa’s Renewable Energy Initiative at COP 21, the AfDB’s Sustainable Energy Fund for Africa (SEFA); global Greenhouse Gas (GHG) emissions; United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC).

Yet, Africa is still grappling with energy difficulties and the effects of climate change.

The long years establishment and investment in fossil fuel energy which is led by the public sector, have not produced the desired result.

For instance, there is a stance that about $16 billion was spent by Nigeria between 1999 and 2007 on energy alone. Many of such huge sums of money were expended on the National Integrated Power Project (NIPP) without it yielding the expected power supply.

Diplomatic rows Since the developed world have been said to be more interested in what becomes of their industries which contribute to climate change, Africa may be losing in the diplomatic rows for a strong international leadership and futuristic policies. This makes Africa more susceptible to the impacts of climate change.

Apart from the West that has been said that contributes 50 per cent of the emissions in the world, South-Africa with her addiction to coal and problems of debt might not be having it fair with the change. There is a herald that Eskom with the construction for Kusile, regarded as “the monstrous coal-fired power plant”, with the cost of the R60.6 billion, would have been beneficial that the country invested in renewable energy as alternative to energy.

Onwumere, is a Rivers State-based poet, writer and consultant and winner, in the digital category, Nordica Media Merit Awards 2016 NOTE: Interested readers should continue in the online edition on www.thisdaylive.com

40

MONDAY JUNE 13, 2016 T H I S D AY

T H I S D AY MONDAY JUNE 13, 2016

INVITATION TO BID FOR THE DESIGN, IMPLEMENTATION AND SUPPORT OF PENSION ADMINISTRATION SYSTEM (PAS) FOR THE NATIONAL PENSION COMMISSION (PENCOM)

T

he National Pension Commission (PenCom) established by the Pension Reform Act 2014 to administer, supervise and regulate all pension matters in Nigeria is desirous of acquiring a robust and resilient application for its operations towards improvement of the Contributory Pension Scheme (CPS).

As part of PenCom’s efforts in the implementation of the Corporate Strategy and using Information Communications Technology (ICT) to drive its corporate vision, PenCom wishes to implement a Pensions Administration System (PAS) as a platform for administering the sector.

The Commission hereby invites reputable Information Communication Technology (ICT) solutions providers with proven experience and expertise in design and implementation of applications to obtain the bid document, for the Design, Implementation and Support of Pensions Administration System (PAS). The Scope of Work is provided in the bid document.

General Requirements All bids must be accompanied by the following documents: 1.

Copy of Certification of incorporation and registration with the Corporate Affairs Commission (CAC).

2.

Copy of current and valid Certificate issued by the National Pension Commission as evidence of compliance with the Pension Reform Act (PRA) 2014.

3.

Copy of current Tax Clearance Certificate for the preceding three years i.e. 2013, 2014 and 2015.

4.

Copy of valid VAT Registration Certificate.

5.

Evidence of compliance with the Industrial Training Fund (ITF) Act No.19 of 2011.

6.

Evidence of registration on the Bureau for Public Procurement (BPP) National Database of Contractors, Consultants and Service providers.

7.

Copy of Certified five (5) years published audited Accounts (2011 – 2015).

8.

Comprehensive Company Profile including ownership structure, management team, technical/other staff, registered address, present office address, functional email address and other contact details.

9.

Verifiable documentary evidence of technical competence and relevant experience with evidence of similar jobs carried out in the last 3 years with addresses of site.

10.

Evidence of financial capacity and banking support.

11.

A sworn affidavit attesting that none of the Directors/Principal Officers of the bidding company has ever been convicted of any criminal offence/confirmation of legal capacity to enter contract.

12.

A sworn affidavit certifying that the documents submitted for the bidding exercise are not only genuine but also correct.

13.

Evidence of payment of the non-refundable fee of N50,000.00.

Collection of the Bid Document The prospective bidders are to collect soft copies of “The Bid Document” at the Procurement Department, 3rd Floor, National Pension Commission Head Office, Plot 174 Adetokunbo Ademola Crescent, Wuse 2, Abuja from the date of this advertisement within the hours of 9am to 4pm. The collection of the bid document attracts a non-refundable fee of N50,000 (Fifty Thousand Naira only) through a certified bank draft in favour of the National Pension Commission.

Submission of Bid Document The prospective bidders are to enclose the technical and financial bids (six hard copies and a soft each) in two (2) separate envelopes, and enclose the two envelopes in one sealed outer envelope and clearly marked “Bid for the Design, Implementation and Support of Pension Administration System (PAS)” on the right hand corner, the name of the company on the reverse side of the envelope and addressed to: The Director General National Pension Commission Plot 174, Adetokunbo Ademola Crescent Wuse 2, Abuja Closing and Opening of Bids The bid documents are to be dropped in the Bid Box at the Mail Office of the Commission at the ground floor not later than 12.00 noon on 27 July, 2016. The bid opening shall commence immediately after close of submissions at the Ground floor meeting room of the Commission’s office building located at 174 Adetokunbo Ademola Crescent, Wuse 2 Abuja. The representatives of the prospective vendors are invited to witness the public opening of the proposals.

Disclaimer: • Any submission after 12 noon shall be rejected.

• This advertisement is published for information purposes only and is not a commitment or obligation to award a contract by the Commission.

• The Commission is not bound to shortlist any vendor and reserves the right to annul the selection process at any time without incurring any liabilities and assigning any reasons thereof.

• The Commission reserves the right to verify the authenticity of any claim on the documents submitted.

• The Commission will only correspond with authorized officers of the successful vendor and not agents or persons acting on its behalf.

All enquiries should be directed in writing to: The Director General National Pension Commission Plot 174 Adetokunbo Ademola Crescent, Wuse 2, Abuja.

PAS_Enquiry@pencom.gov.ng

41

42

MONDAY JUNE 13, 2016 T H I S D AY

FEDERAL ROADS MAINTENANCE AGENCY(FERMA) HEADQUARTERS Plot 163, Aminu Kano Crescent, Wuse II - ABUJA

INVITATION FOR PREQUALIFICATION GENERAL MAINTENANCE REPAIRS OF SOME FEDERAL ROADS NATIONWIDE AND CONSTRUCTION OF FERMA STATE FIELD OFFICE IN FCT INTRODUCTION: In pursuance of the extant guidelines of the Public Procurement Act 2007, the Federal Roads Maintenance Agency (FERMA) in furtherance to her statutory mandate is desirous of carrying out General Maintenance on federal roads and construction of FERMA State Field Office in FCT. To this effect, suitably qualified Contractors are invited to apply for PREQUALIFICATION FOR GENERAL MAINTENANCE REPAIRS OF SOME FEDERAL ROADS NATIONWIDE AND CONSTRUCTION OF FERMA STATE FIELD OFFICE IN FCT.

xi.

Verifiable list of previous similar works successfully carried out within the last three years with names of client, evidence of award and job completion.

xii.

Company profile including among others, organizational structure and key professional staff with their names, and telephone numbers, at least one of which must be a COREN registered Engineer with 2016 Practicing License.

xiii. Audited annual financial report of the company for the last three years (2013 -2015)

SCOPE OF WORKS i.

The Scope of works for Package 3 (Lots 1-10)includes, but not limited to: Site clearance, desilting of existing drains and culverts, construction of new drains and culverts,

xiv. Evidence of financial strength, credit worthiness to the tune of not less than N50m/bank reference in addition to evidence of a turnover of at least N300m in the last three years (2013 2015).

scarification of failed sections, earth works on completely failed areas, general bridge maintenance, protective works, kerbs, laterite/cement stabilized sub base, crushed stone base

xv.

course, asphaltic concrete binder and wearing courses, surface dressing, side drains, road

The offer must be properly signed.

xvi. All schedules provided in bid documents must be completed.

markings and other road furniture xvii. All bids must be submitted in English language. ii.

The Scope of works for Package 3 (Lot 11) includes, but not limited to: Excavations in foundations, reinforced and mass concrete works, sandcrete block works in

xviii. Documentary evidence that the bidder accepts the General and Special Conditions of Contract as indicated in all the forms provided in the bid document.

foundations and floor walls, electrical and mechanical services construction, screedings and finishing, steel roof truss systems and aluminum sheet roofing, landscaping and fencing works.

COLLECTION OF PREQUALIFICATION DOCUMENTS Interested Bidders are to make payment of a non-refundable sum of Twenty Five Thousand Naira

LIST OF PROJECTS

(N25,000.00 )only per lot to Federal Roads Maintenance Agency through Remita after which a receipt Package 3(Road Maintenance and Repairs) is to be raised at the Revenue Office, Accounts Department, Ground Floor of the FERMA Headquarters

LOT

1

2

3

4 5

6

7

8

9

10

PROPOSED PROJECT MAJOR MAINTENANCE AND REPAIRS OF POTHOLES AND ROAD FAILED SECTIONS ALONG 9TH MILE - OBOLLO AFOR - OTUKPA BENUE STATE BORDER ROAD (CH.0+000 CH.93+000) IN ENUGU STATE REHABILITATION OF DAURA TOWNSHIP ROADS IN KATSINA STATE CONSTRUCTION OF INTERNAL ROAD NETWORKS IN FEDERAL UNIVERSITY KASHERE, GOMBE STATE CONSTRUCTION OF DRAINAGE IN FEDERAL UNIVERSITY KASHERE, GOMBE STATE MAJOR MAINTENANCE OF SHAGAMUOGIJO ROAD (CH.8+000 - CH.21+000).

GENERAL MAINTENANCE REPAIRS OF POTISKUM-GOMBE S/B ROAD KM.0+800 KM.73+500 IN YOBE STATE S/R OF APPROACH FAILED SLAB AND REINSTATEMENT OF THE ABUTMENT AT KWANGILA BRIDGE (KM.72+150) ALONG KADUNA-ZARIA ROAD IN KADUNA STATE S/R OF MURTALA MOHAMMED BRIDGE (KM.27+000) KOTON-KARFE ALONG LOKOJA-ABAJI ROAD IN KOGI STATE MAJOR MAINTENANCE OF BENIN - ASABA DUAL CARRIAGEWAY KM.49+200 KM.133+000 GENERAL MTCE OF KANO-WUDILKWARNAR HUGUMA JIGAWA STATE BORDER RD (CH.51+500 - CH.105+000) IN KANO STATE

STATE

CONTRACT NO.

upon presentation of evidence of payment from any of the CBN licensed Commercial Banks.

ENUGU

GM/16-03

receipt between the hours of 10.00am and 3.00pm, Mondays to Fridays on or before 12noonof Tuesday;

Bidders are then to collect Bidding documents after showing original and Photostat copies of payment

June 28, 2016 from:

KATSINA

GM/16-04

GOMBE

GM/16-05

GOMBE

GM/16-06

Wuse II-Abuja.

OGUN

GM/16-07

Ground Floor, Room GF 003

YOBE

GM/16-08

The Assistant General Manager (Procurement) Federal Roads Maintenance Agency (FERMA) Headquarters Annex Abuja; No. 7 Eldoret Close, Off Aminu Kano Crescent.

SUBMISSION/OPENING OF PREQUALIFICATION DOCUMENTS: Interested firms are to submit their bids per Lot in one envelope, sealed and clearly marked on the top left hand corner ''CONFIDENTIAL'' and top right hand corner “TENDER FOR_______(indicate Lot

KADUNA

GM/16-09 No./Project Description/Contract No.)_________” clearly marked “Original” at the bottom right hand corner and addressed to:

KOGI

GM/16-10

EDO

GM/16-11

KANO

GM/16-12

THE MANAGING DIRECTOR, FEDERAL ROADS MAINTENANCE AGENCY, PLOT 163, AMINU KANO CRESCENT, WUSE II, ABUJA. ATTENTION: GENERAL MANAGER (PROCUREMENT) And hand delivered not later than 12noon of Tuesday; June 28, 2016 to the Office of the Assistant

Package 3(Field Office & Laboratory Buildings) CONSTRUCTION OF FERMA STATE FIELD OFFICE AT TUNGAN MAJE ALONG ZUBA GWAGWALADA EXPRESS ROAD, ABUJA, FCT

General Manager (Procurement), FERMA Headquarters Annex Abuja, No. 7 Eldoret Close, Off Aminu Kano Crescent, Wuse II-Abuja. Ground Floor, Room GF 003 (include 1 copy clearly marked “Copy” at the

–

11

FCT

ES/FM/1601

CONDITIONS FOR PREQUALIFICATION i.

Colour copy of evidence of registration with CAC as a Limited/Public Liability Contractor.

ii.

Colour copy of Tax Clearance certificate for the last 3 years which expires on 31stDecember,

bottom right hand corner).

All Bids will be publicly opened immediately after the close of bid submission at the FERMA Conference Room, First Floor FERMA Headquarters, Aminu Kano Crescent, Wuse II, Abuja.

The Representatives of Companies that submitted bids, Representatives of Professional Bodies and the Civil Societies are invited to witness the opening.

2016 iii.

Colour copy of PENCOM remittance certificate for the last 3 years which expires on 31st

Please note that:

December, 2016 i. iv.

Colour copy of ITF (Industrial Training Fund) compliance certificate which expires on 31st December, 2016.

v. vi.

Colour copy of NSITF Compensation Act Compliance which date expires 31st December, 2016.

Evidence of registration on the BPP National Database of Contractors, Consultants and Service Providers by inclusion of Interim Registration Report (IRR) as a Civil/Highway Engineering Contractor

vii.

A sworn affidavit dated not earlier than June 13, 2016 indicating that all document submitted are genuine and verifiable.

viii.

A sworn affidavit dated not earlier than June 13, 2016 that none of the directors nor the Company itself has been convicted of any criminal offence in any country including financial

All jobs will attract a Bid Security of 2% with a validity period of 90 days at the tender stage

ii. iii.

The Construction works may not attract advance payment.

Construction works attract a minimum guarantee period of six (6) months for road works and a Retention period of one (1) year for the State Field Office. iv. Contractors who have worked for the Agency and have history of abandonment, termination and/or lack capacity need not apply. v.

Only correctly addressed bids will be received. vi. The Agency will not enter into unnecessary correspondence with any Contractor except when deemed fit and in the interest of the bid. vii. All costs incurred by any Company in respect of this advertisement are at her own expense and the Agency shall not entertain any claim whatsoever in this regard. viii. The Agency reserves the right to verify any claim made by any of the Bidders. ix. The Agency reserves the right to suspend or cancel the bidding process at any stage if and when the need arises. x.

Late submissions will be rejected.

impropriety. ix.

A sworn affidavit dated not earlier than June 13, 2016 that the bidder is not in receivership,

NON ADHERENCE TO ANY OF THE INSTRUCTIONS ABOVE ATTRACTS AUTOMATIC DISQUALIFICATION.

the subject of any form of winding up petition or proceeding x.

Equipment and technology capacity

Signed: MANAGEMENT

43

T H I S D AY MONDAY JUNE 13, 2016

FEDERAL ROADS MAINTENANCE AGENCY(FERMA) HEADQUARTERS Plot 163, Aminu Kano Crescent, Wuse II - ABUJA

INVITATION FOR PREQUALIFICATION PROCUREMENT AND INSTALLATION OF ICT EQUIPMENT AT FERMA HEADQUARTERS ABUJA AND THE PROCUREMENT OF EQUIPMENT FOR DIRECT LABOUR OPERATIONS INTRODUCTION: In pursuance of the extant guidelines of the Public Procurement Act 2007, the Federal Roads Maintenance Agency (FERMA) in furtherance to her statutory mandate is desirous of developing its Management Information System and the Research & Development infrastructure for the sole purpose of facilitating Road Maintenance activities across the country through the procurement and installation of ICT Hardwares and Softwares as well as the acquisition of equipment for direct labour operations.

xii. A sworn affidavit dated not earlier than June 13, 2016 that the bidder is not in receivership, the subject of any form of winding up petition or proceeding xiii. Verifiable list of previous similar works successfully carried out within the last three years with names of client, evidence of award and job completion.

'PROCUREMENT AND INSTALLATION OF ICT EQUIPMENT AT FERMA HEADQUARTERS ABUJA

xiv. Company profile including among others, organizational structure and key professional staff with their names, and telephone numbers, at least one of which must be a professional in the relevant field.

AND THE PROCUREMENT OF EQUIPMENT FOR DIRECT LABOUR OPERATIONS' as shown in the

xv.

table below:

xvi. Evidence of financial strength, credit worthiness to the tune of not less than N3m/bank reference in addition to evidence of a turnover of at least N10m in the last three years (2013 2015).

In the light of the above, suitably qualified Contractors are invited to apply for prequalification for the

LIST OF PROJECTS

Audited annual financial report of the company for the last three years (2013 -2015)

Package 4(ICT) xvii. The offer must be properly signed.

LOT

1

2

3

PROJECT TITLE

SCOPE OF WORKS/SPECIFICATION

REVIEW AND UPGRADE OF THE AGENCY'S LOCAL AREA NETWORK (LAN), WIRELESS LOCAL AREA NETWORK(WLAN)

*Network and Internet Infrastructure review *Upgrade of LAN, WLAN and internet infrastructure

INTEGRATION OF ROAD REFERENCING SYSTEM

Integration of a locations referencing system for the Federal Roads to the FERMA GIS Implementation of Data ecosystem for proper projects management

FERMA PROJECTS DATA MANAGEMENT SOLUTION (PDMS)

CONTRACT NO.

RMMS/ICT /16-01

xviii. All schedules provided in bid documents must be completed. xix. All bids must be submitted in English language. xx.

Documentary evidence that the bidder accepts the General and Special Conditions of Contract as indicated in all the forms provided in the bid document.

COLLECTION OF PREQUALIFICATION DOCUMENTS

RMMS/ICT /16-02

RMMS/ICT /16-03

Interested Bidders are to make payment of a non-refundable sum of Twenty Five Thousand Naira (N25,000.00 )only per lot to Federal Roads Maintenance Agency through Remita after which a receipt is to be raised at the Revenue Office, Accounts Department, Ground Floor of the FERMA Headquarters upon presentation of evidence of payment from any of the CBN licensed Commercial Banks.

Bidders are then to collect Bidding documents after showing original and Photostat copies of payment receipt between the hours of 10.00am and 3.00pm, Mondays to Fridays on or before 12noon of Wednesday; June 29, 2016 from:

4

5

6

7

Procurement of different computer systems and handheld devices Design and ACTIVE DIRECTORY implementation of the SERVICES, LYNC, Agency’s Process SHAREPOINT Automation system CONFIGURATION Procurement of Power ICT HARDWARE Solution and other NEEDS, accessories COMPUTER SOFTWARE Procurement of Personnel Management, Security ACQUISITION and Operating System Software.

PURCHASE OF COMPUTERS

Package 4(Research & Development) 15/20tph Hot Asphalt PURCHASE OF Recycler EQUIPMENT FOR DIRECT LABOUR 7 OPERATIONS(15/20TP H HOT ASPHALT RECYCLER)

RMMS/ICT /16-04 RMMS/ICT /16-05

Wuse II-Abuja.

Ground Floor, Room GF 003

RMMS/ICT /16-06 RMMS/ICT /16-07

THE MANAGING DIRECTOR, FEDERAL ROADS MAINTENANCE AGENCY, PLOT 163, AMINU KANO CRESCENT, WUSE II, ABUJA.

RD/16-02

Colour copy of ITF (Industrial Training Fund) compliance certificate which expires on 31st

v.

Colour copy of NSITF Compensation Act Compliance which date expires 31st December 2016.

vi.

After- Sales service.

vii.

Spare parts availability

viii. Training facility for FERMA Technical Staff/Operators Evidence of registration on the BPP National Database of Contractors, Consultants and Service Providers by inclusion of Interim Registration Report (IRR) x.

All Bids will be publicly opened immediately after the close of bid submission at the FERMA Conference Room, First Floor FERMA Headquarters, AminuKano Crescent, Wuse II, Abuja.

The Representatives of Companies that submitted bids, Representatives of Professional Bodies and the Civil Societies are invited to witness the opening.

Colour copy of PENCOM remittance certificate for the last 3 years which expires on 31st

December, 2016.

ix.

And hand delivered not later than 12noon of Wednesday; June 29, 2016 to the Office of the Assistant General Manager (Procurement), FERMA Headquarters Annex Abuja, No. 7 Eldoret Close, Off Aminu Kano Crescent, Wuse II-Abuja. Ground Floor, Room GF 003 (include 1 copy clearly marked “Copy” at the bottom right hand corner).

Colour copy of Tax Clearance certificate for the last 3 years which expires on 31st December,

December, 2016 iv.

ATTENTION: GENERAL MANAGER (PROCUREMENT)

Colour copy of evidence of registration with CAC an a Limited/Public liability Engineering /ICT

2016 iii.

hand corner ''CONFIDENTIAL'' and top right hand corner “TENDER FOR_______ (indicate Package No./Lot No./ Project Description/Contract No.)_________” clearly marked “Original” at the bottom right hand corner and addressed to:

Contractor ii.

SUBMISSION/OPENING OF PREQUALIFICATION DOCUMENTS: Interested firms are to submit their bids per Lot in one envelope, sealed and clearly marked on the top left

CONDITIONS FOR PREQUALIFICATION i.

The Assistant General Manager (Procurement) Federal Roads Maintenance Agency (FERMA) Headquarters Annex Abuja; No. 7 Eldoret Close, Off Aminu Kano Crescent.

Please note that: i.

The works may not attract advance payment. ii.

The works may attract a bid security of 2% iii. The Works attract a minimum guarantee period of six (6) months. iv. Contractors who have worked for the Agency and have history of abandonment, termination and/or lack capacity need not apply. v.

Only correctly addressed bids will be received. vi. The Agency will not enter into unnecessary correspondence with any Contractor except when deemed fit and in the interest of the bid. vii. All costs incurred by any Company in respect of this advertisement are at her own expense and the Agency shall not entertain any claim whatsoever in this regard. viii. The Agency reserves the right to verify any claim made by any of the Bidders. ix. The Agency reserves the right to suspend or cancel the bidding process at any stage if and when the need arises x.

Late submissions will be rejected.

A sworn affidavit dated not earlier than June 13, 2016 indicating that all document submitted are genuine and verifiable.

xi.

A sworn affidavit dated not earlier than June 13, 2016 that none of the directors northe

NON ADHERENCE TO ANY OF THE INSTRUCTIONS ABOVE ATTRACTS AUTOMATIC DISQUALIFICATION.

Company itself has been convicted of any criminal offence in any country including financial impropriety.

Signed: MANAGEMENT

44

MONDAY JUNE 13, 2016 T H I S D AY

FEDERAL ROADS MAINTENANCE AGENCY(FERMA) HEADQUARTERS Plot 163, Aminu Kano Crescent, Wuse II - ABUJA

REQUEST FOR EXPRESSION OF INTEREST (EOI) FOR CONSULTANCY SERVICES INTRODUCTION: Naira (N25,000.00 )only for Lots 1 &2 and Ten Thousand Naira (N10,000.00 )only for Lot The Federal Roads Maintenance Agency (FERMA) is desirous of engaging Consultants for the execution of consultancy services as provided for in the 2016 Appropriation Act. In line with the provisions of the Public Procurement Act 2007, FERMA hereby invites suitably qualified Consultants to express interest in the underlisted projects:

3to Federal Roads Maintenance Agency through Remita after which a receipt is to be raised at the Revenue Office, Accounts Department, Ground Floor of the FERMA Headquarters upon presentation of evidence of payment from any of the CBN licensed

LIST OF PROJECTS Commercial Banks.

Package 5(Research & Development, Monitoring& Facility Management) Bidders are then to collect Bidding documents after showing original and Photostat copies

LOT

PROPOSED PROJECT STRENGTH CONDITION SURVEY USING FALLING WEIGHT DEFLECTOMETER (FWD) {COMPREHENSIVE PAVEMENT EVALUATION ON SELECTED FEDERAL HIGHWAYS}.

STRENGTH CONDITION SURVEY USING FALLING WEIGHT DEFLECTOMETER (FWD) { TO OBTAIN DATA FOR MAINTENANCE PLANNING} ENGAGEMENT OF CONSULTANTS FOR CLEANING SERVICES FOR FERMA HEAQUARTESRS AND FERMA HEADQUARTERS ANNEX BUILDINGS

1

2

3

LOCATION

CONTRACT NO.

of payment receipt between the hours of 10.00am and 3.00pm, Mondays to Fridays on or before 12noon of Wednesday; June 29, 2016 from:

NATIONWIDE RD/16-01

The Assistant General Manager (Procurement)

MSD/16NATIONWIDE 01

Federal Roads Maintenance Agency (FERMA) Headquarters Annex Abuja; No. 7 Eldoret Close, Off Aminu Kano Crescent.

FERMA HQ& ANNEX ABUJA

ES/FM/16 -02

Wuse II-Abuja.

Ground Floor, Room GF 003

CONDITIONS FOR EXPRESSION OF INTEREST i.

Colour copy of evidence of registration with CACas a Limited/Public liability SUBMISSION/OPENING OF PREQUALIFICATION DOCUMENTS: company Interested firms are to submit their bids per Lot in one envelope, sealed and clearly marked

ii.

Colour copy of Tax Clearance certificate for the last 3 yearswhich expires on st

on the top left hand corner ''CONFIDENTIAL'' and top right hand corner “TENDER

31 December 2016 iii.

Colour copy of PENCOM remittance certificate for the last 3 yearswhich expires

FOR_______(indicatePackage

No./Lot

No./Project

Description/Contract

st

on 31 December 2016 iv.

No.)_________” clearly marked “Original” at the bottom right hand corner and addressed to:

Colour copy of ITF (Industrial Training Fund) compliance certificatewhich st

expires on 31 December 2016.

THE MANAGING DIRECTOR, st

v.

vi.

FEDERAL ROADS MAINTENANCE AGENCY,

Colour copy of NSITF Compensation Act Compliance which date expires 31 December 2016.

PLOT 163, AMINU KANO CRESCENT,

Evidence of registration with Environmental Health Officers Registration Council

WUSE II, ABUJA.

of Nigeria.(Package 5, Lot 3 only) ATTENTION: GENERAL MANAGER (PROCUREMENT) vii. Evidence of registration on the BPP National Database of Contractors, Consultants and Service Providers by inclusion of Interim Registration Report (IRR) as a Civil/Highway Engineering Contractor

And hand delivered not later than 12noon of Wednesday; June 29, 2016 to the Office of the Assistant General Manager (Procurement), FERMA Headquarters Annex Abuja, No. 7

viii. A sworn affidavit dated not earlier than June 13, 2016 indicating that all Eldoret Close, Off Aminu Kano Crescent, Wuse II-Abuja. Ground Floor, Room GF 003 documents submitted are genuine and verifiable. (include 1 copy clearly marked “Copy” at the bottom right hand corner). ix.

A sworn affidavit dated not earlier than June 13, 2016 that none of the directorsnor the Company itself has been convicted of any criminal offence or All Bids will be publicly opened immediately after the close of bid submission at the financial impropriety in any country.

FERMA Conference Room, First Floor FERMA Headquarters, Aminu Kano

x.

Crescent,

A sworn affidavit dated not earlier than June 13, 2016 that the bidder is not in Wuse II, Abuja. receivership, the subject of any form of winding up petition or proceeding

xi.

Equipment and technology capacity The Representatives of Companies that submitted bids, Representatives of Professional

xii. Verifiable list of previous similar works successfully carried out within the last

Bodies and the Civil Societies are invited to witness the opening.

three years with names of client, evidence of award and job completion. xiii. Company profile including among others, organizational structure and key

Please note that:

professional staff with their names, and telephone numbers, at least one of which I.

Jobs may attract a Bid Security of 2% with a validity period of 90 days at the RFP

must be a COREN registered Engineer with 2016 Practicing License(For Lot 1 Stage and 2). ii.

The Services may not attract advance payment.

xiv. Audited annual financial report of the company for the last three years (2013 iii. Consultants who have worked for the Agency and have history of abandonment, 2015) termination and/or lack capacity need not apply. xv. Evidence of financial strength, credit worthiness to the tune of not less than

iv.

Only correctly addressed bids will be received.

N10m (N3m for Lot 3)/bank reference in addition to evidence of a turnover of at

v.

The Agency will not enter into unnecessary correspondence with any Consultants except when deemed fit and in the interest of the bid.

least N50m(N10m for Lot 3) in the last three years (2013 -2015). xvi. The offer must be properly signed.

vi.

All costs incurred by any Company in respect of this advertisement are at her own expense and the Agency shall not entertain any claim whatsoever in this regard.

xvii. All schedules provided in bid documents must be completed. vii. The Agency reserves the right to verify any claim made by any of the Bidders. xviii.All bids must be submitted in English language. viii. The Agency reserves the right to suspend or cancel the bidding process at any stage xix. Documentary evidence that the bidder accepts the General and Special if and when the need arises.

Conditions of Contract as indicated in all the forms provided in the bid ix.

Late submissions will be rejected.

document.

NON ADHERENCE TO ANY OF THE INSTRUCTIONS ABOVE ATTRACTS COLLECTION OF PREQUALIFICATION DOCUMENTS Interested Bidders are to make payment of a non-refundable sum of Twenty Five Thousand

AUTOMATIC DISQUALIFICATION.

Signed: MANAGEMENT

T H I S D AY MONDAY JUNE 13, 2016

45

46

MONDAY JUNE 13, 2016 T H I S D AY

FEDERAL ROADS MAINTENANCE AGENCY(FERMA) HEADQUARTERS Plot 163, Aminu Kano Crescent, Wuse II - ABUJA

INVITATION FOR TENDER GENERAL MAINTENANCE REPAIRS OF SOME FEDERAL ROADS NATIONWIDE (PHASE I) INTRODUCTION: In pursuance of the extant guidelines of the Public Procurement Act 2007, the Federal Roads Maintenance Agency (FERMA) in furtherance to her statutory mandate is desirous of carrying out general maintenance on federal highways which will include general carriageway, culverts, and street lighting maintenance and repairs.

To this effect, suitably qualified Contractors are invited to tender for the proposed projects as listed below.

SCOPE OF WORKS i.

The Scope of works for package1 includes, but is not

29

30

31

32

33

34

limited to: Site clearance, desilting of existing drains and culverts, construction of new drains and culverts, scarification of failed sections, earth works on completely failed areas, general bridge maintenance, protective works, kerbs, laterite/cement stabilized sub base, crushed stone base course, asphaltic concrete binder and wearing courses, surface dressing, side drains, road markings and other road furniture. ii.

The scope of works for package 2 includes but is not limited to: Rehabilitation and general maintenance repairs of Power Supply equipment such as Transformers and Feeder Pillars, Processing and payment of Discos energy bills for 12 months, Supply/Installations and operation/servicing of power generating set, Provision of security services for the entire installations for 12 months, and other related items.

35

36

37

38

39 40

41

42

LIST OF PROJECTS 43

Package 1(Road Maintenance/ Repairs) LOT

1

2

3

4

5

6

7

8

9

10

11

12

13

14

15

16

17

18

19

20

21

22 23

24

25

26

27 28

PROPOSED PROJECT GENERAL MAINTENANCE/REPAIRS OF KEFFI NASARAWA ROAD (CH.0+000 - CH.40+000) ROUTE NO.346 IN NASARAWA STATE. EMERGENCY MAINTENANCE AND REPAIRS OF POTHOLES AND FAILED ROAD SECTIONS ALONG OLD ALIGNMENT 9TH MILE - OPI NSUKKA(OLD ROAD) (CH.0+000 -CH.52+000) IN ENUGU STATE GENERAL MAINTENANCE OF MADALLA -SULEJAMAJE JUNCTION ROAD CH.0+000 - CH.18+000 GENERAL MAINTENANCE OF KADUNA - ABUJA (NIGER S/B) DUAL CARRIAGEWAY (CH.0+000 CH.137+000) IN KADUNA STATE MAJOR MAINTENANCE OF KANO -GWARZO-DAYI ROAD (CH.7+500 -CH.76+500) IN KANO STATE. (ROUTE 269) MAJOR MAINTENANCE BE TWEEN CH.0+000 CH.86+200 ALONG KATSINA - KANO STATE BORDER ROAD IN KATSINA STATE GENERAL MAINTENANCE REPAIRS OF SOKOTO STATE BORDER -JEGA-KOKO-YAURI-NIGER STATE BORDER ROAD IN KEBBI STATE GENERAL MAINTENANCE REPAIRS OF MARARABA-BIRNIN YAURI-RIJAU-ZURUZAMFARA STATE BORDER ROAD IN KEBBI STATE KABBA-ISANLU-EGBE-OMU ARAN-KWARA STATE BORDER BETWEEN CH.80+000 - CH.133+000 (SECTION II) EMERGENCY REPAIRS OR BIRNIN GWARI TEGINA-MAKERA-MOKWA-JEBBA(KWARA S/B) ROAD, SECTIONS I - III, ROUTE NO.20 IN N/S MAJOR MAINTENANCE OF IKARE -EPINMI-ISUAEDO S/B ROAD KM.0+000 - KM.32+000 (ROUTE NO.R554) F215 GENERAL MAINTENANCE REPAIRS OF IBADAN OYO (OLD ALIGNMENT), KM. 0+000 - KM.40+000, ROUTE 20, IN OYO STATE MAINTENANCE AND REPAIRS OF CRITICAL FAILED ROAD SECTIONS. SECTION III, KM.88+000(TELLA) -KM.217+000 (BENUE S/B JOOTAR) ALONG JALINGO -MUTUM BIYU -TELLAWUKARI-BENUE STATE BORDER ROAD PROPOSAL FOR MAJOR MAINTENANCE BETWEEN KM.101+000 - KM.126+000 ALONG GUSAU-TALATA MAFARA-SOKOTO STATE BORDER ROAD (ROUTE NO.85) CONSTRUCTION OF A 4 -CELL BOX CULVERT AT KM.45+000 ALONG GOMBI -HONG-MARARABA ROAD IN ADAMAWA STATE SPECIAL REPAIRS OF POTISKUM TOWNSHIP BRIDGE KM.0+400 ALONG POTISKIM - AZARE ROAD IN YOBE STATE CONSTRUCTION OF 3 - CELL BON CULVERT AT KM.56+815 AND DESILTING OF RIVER CHANNEL AT BRIDGE LOCATION KM.104+304 ALONG GUSAU-T/MARAFA-SOKOTO S/B RD IN ZAMFARA STATE MAJOR MAINTENANCE AND SPECIAL REPAIRS OF YENOGOA - IMIRINGI - OLOIBIRI ROAD (KM.0+000 - KM.38+000) IN BAYELSA STATE GENERAL MAINTENANCE OF IFAKI -IKOLE OMUO ROAD (CH.0+000 -CH.67+800) IN EKITI STATE MAINTENANCE /REPAIRS OF POTHOLES AND FAILED SECTIONS ALONG ENUGU - 9TH MILE OJI RIVER ANAMBRA S/B ROAD IN ENUGU STATE MAJOR MTCE AND REPAIRS OF ROADS FAILURES ALONG EMOHUA -DEGEMAABONNEMA ROAD IN RIVERS STATE GENERAL MAINTENANCE REPAIRS ALONG MAYOBELWA - ZING ROAD IN ADAMAWA STATE GENERAL MAINTENANCE REPAIRS OF OWERRIOKIGWE-IHUBE ROAD IN IMO STATE REPAIR OF FAILED SECTIONS AND PAVEMENT STRENGTHENING OF HADEJIA -GAMAYIN ROAD (CH.0+000 - CH.24+000) IN JIGAWA STATE (ROUTE NO.70) SPECIAL MAINTENANCE OF ZARIA-FUNTUA KATSINA (S/B) ROAD CH.0+000 - CH.47+000 IN KATSINA STATE (ROUTE NO.85 (A.126) GENERAL MA INTENANCE AND EMERGENCY REPAIRS OF 3 (THREE) NUMBER BRIDGE APPROACHES/EMBARKMENT WASHOUT AT BRIDGES NO.3, 5, AND 6 ALONG ARGUNGU -BWI ROAD IN KEBBI STATE MAJOR MAINTENANCE OF EGBE -OMUO IN KOGI STATE 3RD MAINLAND BRIDGE ( OWORO - TOLL GATE) IN LAGOS STATE

LOCATION

CONTRACT NO.

44 NASARAWA

GM/16-13

45 ENUGU

GM/16-14

46

47 FCT

GM/16-15

KADUNA

GM/16-16

48 49 KANO

GM/16-17

50 KATSINA

GM/16-18

KEBBI

GM/16-19

51

KEBBI

KOGI

GM/16-20

52

GM/16-21

53

NIGER

GM/16-22

54 ONDO

GM/16-23

55 OYO

GM/16-24

56 57 TARABA

GM/16-25

58

ZAMFARA

GM/16-26

ADAMAWA

GM/16-27

59 60

61 YOBE

GM/16-28

62 ZAMFARA

GM/16-29

63

BAYELSA

GM/16-30

64 EKITI

GM/16-31

65

ENUGU

GM/16-32

66 67

RIVERS

GM/16-33

68 ADAMAWA

GM/16-34

IMO

GM/16-35

69

70

JIGAWA

GM/16-36

71

KATSINA

GM/16-37

72

73 KEBBI

GM/16-38

74 KOGI

GM/16-39

75

LAGOS

GM/16-40

76

3RD MAINLAND BRIDGE/IBB (BOTH BOUND) IN LAGOS STATE GENERAL MAINTENANCE OF OWENA (OSUN STATE BORDER) - AKURE-OWO-EDO STATE BORDER ROAD (KM.0+000 - KM.126+000) IN ONDO STATE ROUTE NO.35 GENERAL MAINTENANCE AND REPAIRS OF CRITICALLY FAILED SECTIONS OF CARRIAGEWAY ALONG JOS - SAMINAKA ROAD KM.0+000 - KM.58+000 IN PLATEAU STATE GENERAL MAINTENANCE REPAIRS OF OTURKPO-OJU-CROSS RIVER ROAD S/B IN BENUE STATE CONSTRUCTION AND REHABILITATION OF MALUMFASHI – KAFUR –DABAI ROAD SPECIAL REPAIRS OF IBADAN -IFE DUAL CARRIAGEWAY ROAD, ROUTE 35 IN OSUN STATE KABBA –ISANLU –EGBE –OMUARAN KWARA STATE BORDER BETWEEN CH 80+000 –CH 133+000 (SECTION III) MAJOR MAINTENANCE REPAIRS OF KM.2+800 KM.30+000 ALONG KAJIJI-JABO-ZAMFARA STATE BORDER ROAD IN SOKOTO STATE (ROUTE NO.214, F213) CARRIAGEWAY REPAIRS AND PAVEMENT STRENGTHENING BETWEEN CH.0+000 CH60+000 ALONG OLUKU-SOBE-IFON (ONDO STATE BORDER) ROAD IN EDO STATE MAINTENANCE /REPAIRS OF CRITICALLY FAILED SECTIONS ALONG UMUAHIA -ARIAM IKOT EKPENE ROAD IN ABIA STATE GENERAL MAINTENANCE OF BAUCHI - JOS PS/B ROAD IN BAUCHI STATE MAINTENANCE AND EMERGENCY REPAIRS OF OPOLO-EMEYAL ROAD IN BAYELSA STATE GENERAL MAINTENANCE REPAIRS OF WARRI BYE-PASS EXTENSION (NPA -DSC) CH.0+000 CH.15+350 DUAL CARRIAGEWAY IN DELTA6STATE SPECIAL REPAIRS ON AUCHI-EKPERIAGENEBODE ROAD IN EDO STATE GENERAL MAINTENANCE OF KADUNA -BIRNIN GWARI (NIGER S/B) ROAD (CH.0+000 CH.124+000) IN KADUNA STATE (ROUTE NO.20 (A.125) MAINTENANCE OF FAILED SECTIONS ALONG AKWANGA-KEFFI(CH.0+000-CH.68+000) IN NASARAWA STATE (ROUTE NO.55) EMERGENCY REPAIRS BETWEEN KM.0+000 KM.9+4+000 ALONG MINNA -TEGINA ROAD ROUTE NO.65 IN N/S MAJOR MAINTENANCE OF SANGO -OTTAIDIROKO ROAD (CH.0+000 - CH.62+000 MAJOR MAINTENANCE OF OWO -IKARE-ARIGIDIEKITI STATE BORDER ROAD (KM.0+000 KM.32+000) ROUTE NO.R554 (F215) SPECIAL REPAIRS OF OSHOGBO -SEKONAGBONGAN ROAD IN OSUN STATE MAINTENANCE REPAIRS OF OKENE -KABBA ROAD IN KOGI STATE SPECIAL REPAIRS /PAVEMENT STRENGTHENING OF OGBOMOSHO -DOGOIGBETTI ROAD, KM.4+000 -KM.82+000, ROUTE 518, IN OYO STATE GENERAL MAINTENANCE REPAIRS BETWEEN KM.0+000 - KM.70+000 ALONG SOKOTO-DANGEZAMFARA STATE BORDER ROAD IN SOKOTO STATE (ROUTE NO.85, A.126) MAINTENANCE AND REPAIRS OF CRITICAL FAILED SECTIONS KM.0+000 (BALI) KM.101+000 (MARARABA) ALONG BALI MARARABA ROAD IN TARABA STATE PROPOSAL FOR GENERAL MAINTENANCE OF FAILED SECTION BETWEEN KM.36+000 KM.64+000 ALONG GUSAU -TALATA MAFARASOKOTO STATE BORDER ROAD(ROUTE NO.85) GENERAL MAINTENANCE REPAIRS OF DAMAGED SECTION AND STRENGTHENING OF WEAK SE CTION OF CARRIAGEWAY ALONG JOS BAUCHI ROAD IN PLATEAU STATE MAJOR MAINTENANCE AND REPAIRS OF CRITICALLY FAILED SECTIONS ALONG IHIALAORLU-UMUDURU ROAD IN IMO STATE GENERRAL MAINTENANCE OF ALIADE-OTURKPO ROAD IN BENUE STATE GENERAL MAINTENANCE REPAIRS OF TEGINA BIRNIN GWARI ROAD IN KADUNA STATE GENERAL MAINTENANCE REPAIRS OF UDI OZALLA-NNARA-NKEREFI-EBONYI S/B ROAD IN ENUGU STATE GENERAL MAINTENANCE REPAIRS OF KABBA 0MUO-EKITI S/B ROAD STATE GENERAL MAINTENANCE OF MAKURDI -ALIADE ROAD IN BENUE STATE GENERAL REPAIRS OF CARRIAGEWAY ISOLATED FAILED SECTIONS AND STRENGTHENING (OVERLAY) OF WEAK SECTIONS ALONG JOS GIMI ROAD KM.22+000 - KM.69+000 IN PLATEAU STATE REHABILITATION OF IHUGH - AWAJIR ROAD KONSHISHA LGA, BENUE STATE MAINTENANCE AND REPAIRS OF CRITICAL FAILED SECTIONS KM.0+000 (TAKUM) KM.13+000 (BENUE S/B) ALONG TAKUM -BENUE STATE BORDER ROAD GENERAL REPAIRS AND MAINTENANCE OF AN IMPORTANT ROAD LEADING TO ACHIEVERS UNIVERITY, OWO REPAIRS OF ZARIA ROAD FROM KANO FLYOVER THROUGH MANDO ROUNDABOUT TO NNAMDI AZIKIWE BY-PASS TO ABUJA JUNCTION REHABILITATION OF ROAD IN ANAMBRA –ADANI –KOGI ROAD IN ANAMBRA STATE REHABILITATION OF BRIDGE AT IKOM IN CROSS RIVER STATE GENERAL MAINTENANCE OF MFON –OKPOMA – OGOJA ROAD IN CROSS RIVER MAJOR MAINTENANCE AND REPAIRS OF IKOT EPKENE ROAD, AKWA IBOM STATE GENERAL REPAIRS AND OVERLAY OF NGOMARI –BULUMKUTU ROAD ALONG KANO– JOS ROAD, MAIDUGURI, BORNO STATE MAINTENANCE/REPAIRS OF BIU KWAYA – KUSUR GOMBE STATE BORDER ROAD IN BORNO STATE EMERGENCY REPAIRS AND REHABILITATION OF DAMBOA ROAD (SCHOOL OF NURSING TO FRSC BUILDING )MAIDUGURI TOWN, BORNO STATE GENERAL REPAIRS AND OVERLAYING OF MAIDUGURI –MUNGONU–BAGA ROAD (CH 7+400 –CH 25+000) IN BORNO STATE REHABILITATION OF ROADS AND IN AJASE IPO ERIN ILE - ERUKU LGA OF KWARA STATE REHABILITATION OF ROADS IN BODE SAADU JEBBA LGA REHABILITATION OF ROADS IN IDI APE-OLOJE (OLD KAIMA ROAD) OF KWARA STATE

LAGOS

GM/16-41

77 78

ONDO

GM/16-42 79 80

PLATEAU

GM/16-43 81 82

BENUE

GM/16-44 83

KATSINA

GM/16-45

OSUN

GM/16-46

84 85 86

KOGI

GM/16-47

SOKOTO

GM/16-48

87 88 89

EDO

ABIA

GM/16-49

90

REHABILITATION OF ROADS IN KWANAR MARAKU - MARAKU IN KANO STATE REHABILITATION OF ROADS IN GOMBE BAUCHI - JOS REHABILATATION OF ROAD IN EIDENU - IBORE ROADS IN EDO STATE REHABILITATION OF ROADS IN AGVA - EIDENU JUNCTION IN EDO STATE REHABILITATION OF ROADS IN MAKURDI BOJU EGBA - AKPAN OTUKPA IN BENUE STATE REHAIBILITATION OF ROADS IN SAMINAKA DOGUA IN KANO STATE REHABILITATION OF ROADS IN DOGUWA - TIGA IN KANO STATE REHABILITATION OF ROADS IN OYO OGBOMOSHO REHABILITATION OF ROAD IN LAJAWA GAMARYA - MUSU BAR IN KANO STATE REHABILITATION OF ROAD IN IRRUA - EKPOMA ROAD IN EDO STATE REHABILITATION OF ROAD IN FUNTUA - GUSAU, ZAMFARA STATE REHABILITATION OF ROADS IN KATSINA - KANO IN KATSINA STATE REHABILITATION OF ROADS IN GOMBE-BAUCHININGI BORDER REHABILITATION OF ROAD IN MAIDUGURI BAMA - GWOZA - MUBI, ADAMAWA STATE

91

REHABILITATION OF ROAD IN OYO - AKINMORIN

92

REHABILITATION OF ROAD IN ISEYIN - OKEHO

KANO

GM/16-89

GOMBE

GM/16-90

EDO

GM/16-91

EDO

GM/16-92

BENUE

GM/16-93

KANO

GM/16-94

KANO

GM/16-95

OYO

GM/16-96

KANO

GM/16-97

EDO

GM/16-98

ZAMFARA

GM/16-99

KATSINA GOMBE ADAMAWA OYO

GM/16-50

BAUCHI

GM/16-51

BAYELSA

GM/16-52

93

94

DELTA

GM/16-53

EDO

GM/16-54

KADUNA

GM/16-55

NASARAWA

GM/16-56

NIGER

GM/16-57

OGUN

GM/16-58

95

96

97

98

99 ONDO

GM/16-59

OSUN

GM/16-60

KOGI

GM/16-61

OYO

GM/16-62

SOKOTO

GM/16-63

TARABA

GM/16-64

100

101

102

103 104

REHABILITATION OF KARAYE - ROGO ROAD IN KANO STATE GENERAL REPAIRS AND OVERLAYING OF MAIDUGURI - MONGUNO - BAGA - ROAD (CH7+400 - 25+000) REHABILITATION, EMERGENCY AND SPECIAL RECONSTRUCTION AND COMPLETION OF SPUR FROM IHIALA - ORLU - UMUDURU TO IHIOMA ORSUMUOGHU, ANAMBRA FOR ECONOMIC REASONS TAFAWA BELEWA BAUCHI - DAWAKI - KABWIR ROAD, BAUCHI STATE POLICE ROAD ORSU OFF IHIALA - UMUDURU RD INTERCHANGE AT EZEUDO AMAOKPA AND ZIMUZO RDS REHABILITATION OF 1ST GATE OF USMAN DANFODIO UNIVERSITY ROAD TO THE MAIN CAMPUS GENERAL MAINTENANCE SPECIAL REPAIRS, RECONSTRUCTION OF FAILED AREAS/SLABS OF 5 (FIVE) NUMBERS BOX CULVERT ON VARIOUS POINTS OF OHIARA RIVER ORSU LGA AND A BRIDGE OVER URASI RIVER ISI-IHITE OWERRI ORLU LGA ACCESSING IHIALA ANAMBRA AND ORLU UMUDURU ROAD, IMO STATE INSURGENCY CONSIDERATION: REPAIRS AND REHABILITATION OF ROADS IN THE N/EAST DILCHIM - BAZZA - MICHIKA - GULAK INSURGENCY CONSIDERATION: REPAIRS AND REHABILITATION OF ROADS IN THE N/EAST TOWARDS YOBE I.E POSTIKUM - JAKUSCO BADE ROAD OWERRI - UMUAHIA HIGHWAY: EGBELU UMUHU - AFOR ENYIOGUGU HIGH TRAFFIC MARKET INTERCHANGE FOR CONVEYING OF AGRIC PRODUCTS REHABILITATION AND MAINTENANCE OF LANGTANG - WASE ROAD CONSTRUCTION OF ELENTERE APIPONTORO ROAD, ILOBU, IREPODUN LGA, OSUN STATE

OYO

KANO

GM/16100 GM/16101 GM/16102 GM/16103 GM/16104 GM/16105

BORNO

GM/16106

ANAMBRA

GM/16107

BAUCHI

GM/16108

IMO

GM/16109

SOKOTO

GM/16110

IMO

GM/16111

ADAMAWA

GM/16112

YOBE

GM/16113

IMO

GM/16114

PLATEAU OSUN

GM/16115 GM/16116

Package 2 (Engineering Services) ZAMFARA

GM/16-65

PLATEAU

GM/16-66

IMO

GM/16-67

BENUE

GM/16-68

KADUNA

GM/16-69

ENUGU

GM/16-70

KOGI

GM/16-71

BENUE

GM/16-72

PLATEAU

CONTRACT NO.

LOT

PROPOSED PROJECT

LOCATION

EE 1

REHABILITATION / REPAIR OF STREET LIGHTING INSTALLATIONS ALONG ABUJA-KEFFI EXPRESSWAY.

FCT

ES/ELECT /16-01

EE 2

REHABILITATION / REPAIR OF STREET LIGHTING INSTALLATIONS ON KADUNA WESTERN - BYPASS.

KADUNA

ES/ELECT /16-02

EE 3

REHABILITATION / REPAIR OF STREET LIGHTING INSTALLATIONS ON OWERRI-ONITSHA EXPRESSWAY BY NNPC (OWERRI END).

IMO

ES/ELECT /16-03

EE 4

REHABILITATION / REPAIR OF STREET LIGHTING INSTALLATIONS ON 2 NOS INTERCHANGES (OLUKU&ASABA) AND IGUOMON SUB-STATIONS, EDO STATE.

EDO

ES/ELECT /16-04

EE 5

REHABILITATION / REPAIR OF STREET LIGHTING INSTALLATIONS ON ABUJA-KADUNA EXPRESSWAY (ZUBA END).

FCT

ES/ELECT /16-05

EE 6

REHABILITATION / REPAIR OF STREET LIGHTING INSTALLATIONS ON AJAOKUTA – AYINGBA ROAD (ITOBE END).

KOGI

ES/ELECT /16-06

ANAMBRA

ES/ELECT /16-07

GM/16-73

BENUE

GM/16-74

TARABA

GM/16-75

EE 7

REHABILITATION / REPAIR OF STREET LIGHTING INSTALLATIONS ON NIGER BRIDGE, ONITSHA.

ONDO

GM/16-76

ME 1

SERVICING AND REPAIR OF 40NO. 4-9TPH U-MIX 36 STATE MINI ASPHALT PLANTS CAPITALS

KADUNA

GM/16-77

ANAMBRA

GM/16-78

ES/MECH /16-01

CONDITIONS TO TENDER

CROSS RIVER CROSS RIVER AKWA IBOM

i.

Colour copy of evidence of registration with CAC as a

ii.

Colour copy of Tax Clearance certificate for the last 3 years which expires on 31stDecember 2016

Limited/Public Liability Contractor.

GM/16-79 GM/16-80 GM/16-81

BORNO

GM/16-82

BORNO

GM/16-83

BORNO

GM/16-84

iii. Colour copy of PENCOM remittance certificate for the last 3 st years which expires on 31 December, 2016 iv. Colour copy of ITF (Industrial Training Fund) compliance certificate which expires on 31st December, 2016. v.

BORNO

GM/16-85

KWARA

GM/16-86

KWARA

GM/16-87

KWARA

GM/16-88

Colour copy of NSITF Compensation Act Compliance which date expires 31st December, 2016.

vi. Evidence of registration on the BPP National Database of Contractors, Consultants and Service Providers by inclusion of Interim Registration Report (IRR) as a Civil/Highway Engineering Contractor

MONDAY JUNE 13, 2016 • T H I S D AY

vii. After- Sales service. (Package 3, Lot ME 1only) viii. Spare parts availability (Package 3, Lot ME 1only) ix.

Training facility for FERMA Technical Staff/Operators (Package 3, Lot ME 1only)

x.

A sworn affidavit dated not earlier than June 13, 2016 indicating that all documents submitted are genuine and verifiable.

xi.

A sworn affidavit dated not earlier than June 13, 2016 that none of the directors nor the Company itself has been convicted of any criminal offence or financial impropriety in any country.

xii. A sworn affidavit dated not earlier than June 13, 2016 that the bidder is not in receivership, the subject of any form of winding up petition or proceeding xiii. Verifiable list of previous similar works successfully carried out within the last three years with names of client, evidence of award and job completion. xiv. Company profile including among others, organizational structure and key professional staff with their names, and telephone numbers, at least one of which must be a COREN registered Civil/Mechanical/ Electrical Engineer with 2016 Practicing License (as applicable). xv.

Audited annual financial report of the company for the last three years (2013 -2015)

xvi. Evidence of financial strength, credit worthiness to the tune of not less than N15m/bank reference in addition to evidence of a turnover of at least N100m in the last three years (2013 2015). xvii. The offer must be properly signed. xviii. All schedules provided in bid documents must be completed. xix. All bids must be submitted in English language. xx.

Documentary evidence that the bidder accepts the General and Special Conditions of Contract as indicated in all the forms provided in the bid document.

COLLECTION OF TENDER DOCUMENTS Interested Bidders are to make payment of a non-refundable sum of Twenty Five Thousand Naira (N25,000.00 )only per lot to Federal Roads Maintenance Agency through Remita after which a receipt is to be raised at the Revenue Office, Accounts Department, Ground Floor of the FERMA Headquarters upon presentation of evidence of payment from any of the CBN licensed Commercial Banks.

Bidders are then to collect Bidding documents after showing original and Photostat copies of payment receipt between the hours of 10.00am and 3.00pm, Mondays to Fridays on or before 12noon of Tuesday; July 26, 2016 from: The Assistant General Manager (Procurement) Federal Roads Maintenance Agency (FERMA)

47

INTERNATIONAL

email:foreigndesk@thisdaylive.com

US: Mitt Romney Says Trump Promoting Racism Mitt Romney, the former Republican presidential candidate, has condemned Donald Trump for setting a dangerous example for Americans by promoting “trickle-down racism”.

Speaking in Utah at his annual business and politics summit at the weekend, Romney said the Republican Party must look beyond this presidential election to find its future. Firing back, Trump went on Twitter to note how Romney “choked like a dog” when he lost to then-incumbent President Barack Obama in 2012 and repeated it at his campaign stops.

Some other senior Republicans have also criticised Trump in recent weeks for attacking US District Judge Gonzalo Curiel, a Mexican-American judge presiding over a case against him.

“Presidents have an impact on the nature of our nation,

and trickle-down racism, trickle-down bigotry and trickle-down misogyny - all these things are extraordinarily dangerous to the heart and character of America,” Romney said in Utah. He said he expected Trump to get the Republican nomination, but added that he would not vote for either Trump or Clinton.

Romney left open the possibility of casting a ballot for the Libertarian Party candidate, Gary Johnson, a former New Mexico governor. On Tuesday Paul Ryan, the top elected US Republican and speaker of the House of Representatives, criticised Trump’s remarks on the judge for what he called a “textbook definition of a racist comment”.

Unlike Romney, Ryan has endorsed Trump as the Republican nominee. Ohio Governor John Kasich, who was a nominee for Republican candidacy earlier in the year, said on Thursday he still was

not ready to endorse Trump.

“Why would I feel compelled to support someone whose positions I kind of fundamentally disagree with?” he told Fox News.

As the presumptive nominee, Trump now has to balance maintaining the outsider style that helped propel him to the nomination, while courting Republican insiders, who could be critical to financing a general election campaign against a well-funded Clinton.

On Friday, at a Christian evangelical conference, Trump offered a message of ethnic harmony as he sought to calm concerns about his criticism of the Mexican-American judge.

In a d e p a r t u re f ro m h i s usual freewheeling style, Tr u m p re a d a c a re f u l l y s c r i p t e d s p e e c h f ro m a t e l e p ro m p t e r a s p a r t o f a n ew p u s h by h i s campaign to tone down his harsh rhetoric.

Headquarters Annex Abuja; No. 7 Eldoret Close, Off Aminu Kano Crescent.

Wuse II-Abuja.

Ground Floor, Room GF 003

CIA Chief Expects Release of 9/11 Documents to Clear Saudi Arabia

SUBMISSION/OPENING OF TENDER DOCUMENTS: Interested firms are to submit their bids per Lot in one envelope, sealed and clearly marked on the top left hand corner ''CONFIDENTIAL'' and top right hand corner “TENDER FOR_______(indicatePackage No/Lot No./Project Description/Contract No.)_________” clearly marked “Original” at the bottom right hand corner and addressed to: THE MANAGING DIRECTOR, FEDERAL ROADS MAINTENANCE AGENCY, PLOT 163, AMINU KANO CRESCENT, WUSE II, ABUJA.

ATTENTION: GENERAL MANAGER (PROCUREMENT) And hand delivered not later than 12noon of Tuesday; July 26, 2016 to the Office of the Assistant General Manager (Procurement), FERMA Headquarters Annex Abuja, No. 7 Eldoret Close, Off Aminu Kano Crescent, Wuse II-Abuja. Ground Floor, Room GF 003 (include 1 copy clearly marked “Copy” at the bottom right hand corner).

All Bids will be publicly opened immediately after the close of bid submission at the Rockview Royale Hotel, Adetokunbo Ademola Crescent, Wuse II, Abuja.

The Representatives of Companies that submitted bids, Representatives of Professional Bodies and the Civil Societies are invited to witness the opening.

Please note that: i.

All jobs will attract a Bid Security of 2% with a validity period of 90 days.

ii. iii. iv.

The Construction works may not attract advance payment.

Construction works attract a minimum guarantee period of six (6) months.

Contractors who have worked for the Agency and have history of abandonment, termination and/or lack capacity need not apply. v.

Only correctly addressed bids will be received. vi. The Agency will not enter into unnecessary correspondence with any Contractor except when deemed fit and in the interest of the bid. vii. All costs incurred by any Company in respect of this advertisement are at her own expense and the Agency shall not entertain any claim whatsoever in this regard. viii. The Agency reserves the right to verify any claim made by any of the Bidders. ix. The Agency reserves the right to suspend or cancel the bidding process at any stage if and when the need arises x.

Late submissions will be rejected.

NON ADHERENCE TO ANY OF THE INSTRUCTIONS ABOVE ATTRACTS AUTOMATIC DISQUALIFICATION.

Signed: MANAGEMENT

CIA chief, John Brennan, said yesterday that he expects 28 classified pages of a U.S. congressional report into the Sept. 11, 2001 attacks on the United States to be published, absolving Saudi Arabia of any responsibility.

“So these 28 pages I believe are going to come out and I think it’s good that they come out. People shouldn’t take them as evidence of Saudi complicity in the attacks,” Brennan said in an interview with Saudi-owned Arabiya TV, according to a transcript provided by the network.

The withheld section of the 2002 report is central to a dispute over whether Americans should be able to

sue the Saudi government, a key U.S. ally, for damages.

The U.S. Senate passed a bill on May 17 allowing the families of Sept. 11 victims to do so, setting up a potential showdown with the White House, which has threatened a veto.

Saudi Arabia denies providing any support for the 19 hijackers - most of whom were Saudi citizens - who killed nearly 3,000 people in the Sept. 11 attacks. Riyadh strongly objects to the bill. It has said it might sell up to $750 billion in U.S. securities and other American assets if it became law.

Brennan called the 28-page section merely a “preliminary review.”“The 9/11 commission

looked very thoroughly at these allegations of Saudi involvement ... their conclusion was that there was no evidence to indicate that the Saudi government as an institution or senior Saudi officials indiv i d u a l l y h a d supported the 9/11 att a c k s ,” h e added.

The Office of the U.S. Director of National Intelligence is reviewing the material to see whether it can be declassified. Former U.S. Senator Bob Graham, who co-chaired the congressional inquiry into the attacks, said in April that the White House will likely make a decision by June on whether it would release the classified pages.

Mahathir Hounds Scandal-ridden Malaysian PM in Campaign Malaysia’s veteran former leader, Mahathir Mohamad, campaigned against his old party over the weekend, seeking to turn voters against scandal-tainted Prime Minister Najib Razak in two by-elections being fought next week.

Mahathir, who led the country for 22 years until his retirement in 2003, quit the United Malays National Organisation (UMNO) earlier this year in disgust over Najib’s grip on the party despite allegations of massive corruption.

The feisty 90-year-old has teamed up with old foes in the Pakatan Harapan opposition alliance to

remove Najib, his one-time protege.

“If the people want to see this country being robbed by the PM, who has now passed a law that makes him stronger than even the Agong (King)... If that’s what the people want, they’ll get what they deserve,” Mahathir told a newsconference while campaigning on Saturday.

Najib, who denies any wrongdoing, has seen his popularity sink to all time lows because of a multi-billion dollar graft scandal at the 1Malaysia Development Bhd (1MDB) state fund and reports that around $1 billion were deposited in his personal bank account.

The multi-ethnic Barisan Nasi-

onal coalition led by UMNO has lost support among the Southeast Asian nation’s ethnic Chinese and Indian minorities because the controversy, leaving the embattled premier desperately trying to shore up his Muslim Malay votebank.

Last month, UMNO convinced parliament to allow members to debate a bill submitted by the Pan-Malaysian Islamic Party (PAS) - which has stayed outside the anti-Najib alliance - for the introductio n o f h u d u d , the Islamic penal code that sets punishments like amputation and stoning.

48

MONDAY JUNE 13, 2016 T H I S D AY

FEDERAL ROADS MAINTENANCE AGENCY(FERMA) HEADQUARTERS Plot 163, Aminu Kano Crescent, Wuse II - ABUJA

INVITATION FOR TENDER GENERAL MAINTENANCE REPAIRS OF SOME FEDERAL ROADS NATIONWIDE (PHASE II) INTRODUCTION: In pursuance of the extant guidelines of the Public Procurement Act 2007, the Federal Roads Maintenance Agency (FERMA) in furtherance to her statutory mandate is desirous of carrying out general maintenance on federal highways network nationwide. To this effect, suitably qualified Contractors are invited to tender for the proposed projects as listed below.

SCOPE OF WORKS i. The Scope of works for package 1includes, but is not limited to: Site clearance, desilting of existing drains and culverts, construction of new drains and culverts, scarification of failed sections, earth works on completely failed areas, general bridge maintenance, protective works, kerbs, laterite/cement stabilized sub base, crushed stone base course, asphaltic concrete binder and wearing courses, surface dressing, side drains, road markings and other road furniture.

1 2 3 4 5

6

7 8 9 10 11 12 13

14

15 16 17 18 19 20 21

22

23 24 25 26 27

28

29

30 31

32

33 34 35

36

37

38

PROPOSED PROJECT REHABILITATION OF ROADS IN AKAWAN - LAFIA - MAKURDI MAINTENANCE OF ORJI ROAD (EGWU OBEAGBU) INTERCHANGE SECTION I GENERAL MAINTENANCE MFON - OKPOMA OGOJA ROAD IN CROSS RIVER REHABILITATION OF ROADS IN IBI - WUKARI TAKUM ROAD IN TARABA STATE REHABILITATION OF ROAD IN IJEBU ODE ITELE ROAD, OLD BENIN SHAGAMU ROAD REHABILITATION OF ROAD IN IDIDEP USUK IKOT ETIM - AFCHA/HAD ROAD (4.5KM) IBIONO IBOM L.G.A. OF AKWA-IBOM REHABILITATION OF ROADS IN MOKWA - NEW BUSSA IN NIGER STATE REHABILITATION OF ROAD IN 1ST EAST CIRCULAR - 2ND EAST CIRCULAR ROAD REHABILITATION OF ROAD IN MFON - OKPOMA OGOJA CROSS RIVER STATE REHABILITATION OF BRIDGE AT IKOM IN CROSS RIVER STATE REHABILITATION OF ROAD IN B/LADI - BUKKOS REHABILITATION OF ROAD IN KAFANCHANKEFFI-ABUJA ROAD REHABILITATION OF ROAD IN ANAMBRA-ADANIKOGI ROAD AKPASHA(UMUATUGBOMA)-OBUOFFIA, AMONDU ROAD IN NKANU WEST LGA, ENUGU STATE REHABILITATION OF ACCESS ROAD TO IRRUA SPECIALIST TEACHING HOSPITAL REHABILITATION OF EKPOMA IRUEKPEN ROAD REHABILITATION OF IFAKI-OMUO ROAD IN EKITI STATE MAINTENANCE OF ADO - IFAKI - OTUN ROAD IN EKITI STATE MAINTENANCE OF ADO-AKURE ROAD REHABILITATION OF KANO - GUMEL - MAKATARI ROAD IN KANO STATE REHABILITATION OF IYI-EKORO BRIDGEOPANDA ALONG THE NSUKKA-ADANI ROAD REHABILITATION OF NKALAGU-EHAMUFU-IKEM ROAD CONNECTING EBONYI IN ENUGU AND BENUE STATE REHABILITATION OF ONUEBONYI-AMACHI-IKWO ROAD IN EBONYI NORTH EBONYI STATE REHABILITATION OF BAUCHI-KARI-MISAU ROAD BAUCHI STATE REHABILITATION OF TAKAI-BABALDU-NINGIBAUCHI ROAD IN BAUCHI STATE REHABILITATION OF AWO STREET-CIRCULAR ROAD-OGBELAKA STREET IN EDO STATE REHABILITATION OF 9TH MILE - ABOR - UKEHE - OPI - NSUKKA, IN ENUGU STATE OMUMA - MGBIDI INTERCHANGE ALONG ONITSHA - OWERRI ROAD FOR ECONMIC REASONS IN IMO STATE RECONSTRUCTION/REHABILITATION OF THE MAKURDI - NAKA - ADOKU - ANKPA ROAD, BENUE STATE OWERRI PORT-HARCOURT UMUOKANNE TO UMUAPU FEDERAL ROAD BYPASS REHABILITATION AND REPAIRS AKOLU ROAD ON EXPRESSWAY, ABORERIN ERUWA REPAIRS AND REHABILITATION OF NKWO INDUSTRIAL ROAD OFF OBA OKIGWE, FEDERAL ROAD IN IMO STATE LASSA TO DILLE ROAD, HAWUL AND ASIKIRA, BORNO STATE REHABILITATION AND MAINTENANCE OF TRINITY ROAD IN LAGOS STATE REHABILITATION AND REPAIRS OF ASIKIRA TO NGULDE, ASIKIRA UBA BORNO STATE REHABILITATION OF ACCES ROAD FOR ECONOMIC ACTIVITIES FROM PONTELA VIA OYO - IBADAN EXPRESSWAY OWERRI- OKIGWE ROAD TORONTO - URATTA OJI INTERCHANGE IN IMO STATE GENERAL MAINTENANCE AND REPAIRS OF AN IMPORTANT ROAD LEADING TO THE ACHIEVERS UNIVERSITY, OWO

40 41

42

43

44

LIST OF PROJECTS Package 6 (Road Maintenance/ Repairs) LOT

39

LOCATION NASARAWA

IMO CROSS RIVER TARABA OGUN

CONTRACT NO.

GM/16117 GM/16118 GM/16119 GM/16120 GM/16121

45

46 47 48 49

50 AKWA IBOM NIGER EDO CROSS RIVER CROSS RIVER PLATEAU KADUNA KOGI

ENUGU

EDO EDO EKITI EKITI ONDO KANO ENUGU

GM/16122 GM/16123 GM/16124 GM/16125 GM/16126 GM/16127 GM/16128 GM/16129

51

GM/16130

56

GM/16131 GM/16132 GM/16133 GM/16134 GM/16135 GM/16136 GM/16137

52

53

54

55

57

58

59

60

61 EBONYI

GM/16138

62 EBONYI BAUCHI BAUCHI EDO ENUGU

IMO

BENUE

IMO EDO

IMO

BORNO LAGOS BORNO

GM/16139 GM/16140 GM/16141 GM/16142 GM/16143

63 64

65

GM/16144

66

GM/16145

67

GM/16146 GM/16147

68

GM/16148

69

GM/16149 GM/16150 GM/16151

70

71

RECONSTRUCTION AND REHABILITATION OF UMUOGELE - ACHARA - UGWUEME UMUNNEOCHI ON THE ENUGU PORTHARCOURT EXPRESSWAY REHABILITATION OF EGBELU - ADAELU ROAD OFF EXPRESSWY, ABIA STATE REPAIRS OF POTISKUM - JAKUSCO - BADE ROADS, ADAMAWA STATE REPAIRS AND RESURFACING OF KEFFI GUNDAMA GITATA - BADE/KAFANCHA, KADUNA STATE ENUGU - PORT-HARCOURT EXPRESS ROAD, OGBAKU INTERCHANGE GENERAL MAINTENANCE, REHABILITATION OF MARNONA - GORONYO ROAD TO BIRNI TOWNS, SOKOTO STATE REHABILITATION OF OGUTA LAKE - EGBEMA OMOKU - AHOADA FEDERAL ROAD IN RIVERS STATE LITEKPA - ABU OCHICHE - UGIDI ROAD, BEKWARA ON CROSS RIVER HIGHWAY NSUKKA - ENUGU - ONITSHA ROAD, ENUGU CAMPUS INTERCHANGE IN ENUGU STATE IHIALA - ORLU - UMUDURU ROAD: UMUNA OWERRI EBEIRI INTERCHANGE IN IMO STATE REHABILITATION OF OWODE - ILARO ROAD, OGUN STATE REHABILITATION OF KARIMU - KARIMU II ROAD, SURULERE 1 FED. CONSTITUENCY, LAGOS STATE REHABILITATION OF MODELE ROAD, OFF TEJUOSHO, SURULERE 1 FED. CONSTITUENCY, LAGOS STATE. CONSTRUCTION OF FOUR (4) SPANS BRIDGE AND APPRACH ROAD ALONG TSAKUWA - DABA ROAD (DAWAKIN KUDU/BUNKURE LGA MAJOR MAINTENANCE AND REPAIRS OF IKOT EKPENE ROAD, AKWA IBOM STATE REPAIRS AND MAINTENANCE OF 5KM OBAAMURO/IDU IGARIWEY/FEDERAL HEALTH CENTRE ROAD, AFIKPO NORTH LGA, EBONYI STATE ORLU JUNCTION - MGBIDI ROAD OFF ONITSHA OWERRI EXPRESSWAY EXPANSION OF KADAURI AND MAYANCHI NARROW BRIDGE OF MARU LGA, ZAMFARA STATE RECONSTRUCTION OF MUOBIKE/CHIDIEBERE/ORUMBA MGBUKA/AMAZU ROADS OKPOKO IN OGBARU LGA ANAMBRA STATE REHABILITATION OF EZEMS/MOGAMBO/ISUKWUATO ROADS IN OGBARU LGA, ANAMBRA STATE REPAIRS OF ZARIA ROAD FROM KANO FLYOVER THROUGH MANDO ROUNDABOUT TO NNAMDI AZIKIWE BYEPASS TO ABUJA JUNCTION EMERGENCY REPAIRS AND REHABILITATION OF DAMBOA ROAD (SCHOOL OF NURSING TO FRSC BUILDING) MAIDUGURI TOWN, BORNO STATE REHABILITATION OF IHUGH - KORINYA - TSE AGBEREGBA ROAD, KONSHISHA/VANDEIKYA IN BENUE STATE REHABILITATION OF IWO-EJIGBO ROAD, IN OSUN STATE RECONSTRUCTION OF COLLAPSED CONCRETE BRIDGES ALONG FUNTUA DANDUME ROAD REHABILITATION OF DRAINAGE AT D/KURE LONDON ROAD IN NIGER STATE MAINTENANCE AND REPAIRS OF FAILED SECTION ALONG OSSO - EDDA - OWUTU OHAFIA JUNCTION EBONYI STATE BORDER ROAD BETWEEN KM.3+000 - KM.17+500 IN EBONYI STATE

GENERAL MAINTENANCE/PAVEMENT STRENGTHENING OF OWERRI -ONITSHA DUAL CARRIAGEWAY IN IMO STATE GENERAL MAINTENANCE OF KANO -DAMBATTA IN JIGAWA STATE BORDER ROAD IN KANO STATE GENRAL MAINTENANCE REPAIRS OF POTISKUMUDUBO-BAUCHI S/B ROAD KM.9+300 KM.30+600 IN YOBE STATE REHABILITATION OF ROADS IN OKENE, KOGI STATE SPECIAL REPAIRS OF FAILED CARRIAGEWAY SECTIONS ALONG BENIN YAURI -RIJAU ROAD IN KEBBI STATE (SECTION I) GENERAL MAINTENANCE OF MURTALA MOHAMMED INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT ROAD (CH.0+000 - CH.4+700). IN LAGOS STATE

RIVERS

ABIA ADAMAWA

GM/16155 GM/16156 GM/16157

KADUNA

GM/16158

ENUGU

GM/16159

SOKOTO

GM/16160

RIVERS

GM/16161

CROSS RIVERS ENUGU IMO OGUN

LAGOS

GM/16162 GM/16163 GM/16164 GM/16165 GM/16166

LAGOS

GM/16167

KANO

GM/16168

AKWA IBOM

GM/16169 GM/16170

EBONYI

IMO

ZAMFARA

GM/16171 GM/16172 GM/16173

ANAMBRA

ANAMBRA

GM/16174

FCT

GM/16175

BORNO

GM/16176

BENUE

GM/16177

OSUN KATSINA NIGER

GM/16178 GM/16179 GM/16180 GM/16181

EBONYI

IMO

GM/16182

KANO

GM/16183

YOBE

GM/16184

KEBBI

GM/16185 GM/16186

LAGOS

GM/16187

KOGI

CONDITIONS TO TENDER

OYO

GM/16152 I.

Colour copy of evidence of registration with CAC as a Limited/Public Liability Contractor.

IMO

GM/16153

ii.

Colour copy of Tax Clearance certificate for the last 3 yearswhich expires on 31stDecember 2016

ONDO

GM/16154

iii. Colour copy of PENCOM remittance certificate for the last 3 years which expires on 31st December 2016

49

MONDAY, JUNE 13, 2016 • T H I S D AY

INTERNATIONAL

st

iv. Colour copy of ITF (Industrial Training Fund) compliance certificate which expires on 31 December 2016. st

v.

Colour copy of NSITF Compensation Act Compliance which date expires 31 December 2016.

vi. Evidence of registration on the BPP National Database of Contractors, Consultants and Service Providers by inclusion of Interim Registration Report (IRR) as a Civil/Highway Engineering Contractor vii. After- Sales service. (Package 3, Lot ME 1only) viii. Spare parts availability (Package 3, Lot ME 1only) ix. Training facility for FERMA Technical Staff/Operators (Package 3, Lot ME 1only) x. A sworn affidavit dated not earlier than June 13, 2016 indicating that all documents submitted are genuine and verifiable. xi. A sworn affidavit dated not earlier than June 13, 2016 that none of the directors nor the Company itself has been convicted of any criminal offence or financial impropriety in any country. xii. A sworn affidavit dated not earlier than June 13, 2016 that the bidder is not in receivership, the subject of any form of winding up petition or proceeding xiii. Verifiable list of previous similar works successfully carried out within the last three years with names of client, evidence of award and job completion. xiv. Company profile including among others, organizational structure and key professional staff with their names, and telephone numbers, at least one of which must be a COREN registered Civil/Mechanical/ Electrical Engineer with 2016 Practicing License (as applicable). xv. Audited annual financial report of the company for the last three years (2013 -2015) xvi. Evidence of financial strength, credit worthiness to the tune of not less than N10m/bank reference in addition to evidence of a turnover of at least N50m in the last three years (2013 -2015). xvii. The offer must be properly signed.

Kenyan Opposition to Go ahead with Banned Rallies Kenya’s opposition coalition said at the weekend that it would go ahead with political protests next week even while it acknowledged progress was being made in talks with the government.

Tensions have been mounting since early April, when the opposition began weekly protests demanding the leadership of the Kenya’s electoral committee be sacked, calling them incompetent and biased in favour of the government.

At least four protesters have been killed in clashes with security forces in the opposition stronghold of western Kenya and scores have been injured nationwide. The government banned the protests this week,

but the opposition said it would disregard that.

In a statement on Friday, the opposition Coalition for Reform and Democracy (CORD) said its “programmes for demonstrations are still in place for Monday and Thursday next week.” In a bid to resolve the dispute, on Wednesday President Uhuru Kenyatta set up a bipartisan committee in parliament to discuss the issue. CORD said in the statement it had engaged with the government in talks over the dispute for three days and that “70 per cent of the sticking points have been agreed upon.”

But it said the ongoing talks were not sufficient to

guarantee success in reforming the Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC). The IEBC has denied bias and its members have said they will not quit.m The opposition criticised the commission after the last presidential election, in 2013, when it fumbled technology to identify voters and transmit results from polling stations.

Kenyatta said on Friday he would not directly participate in the talks himself, even as legislators from his ruling coalition hold dialogue with CORD. “I have no business sitting down with you (CORD),” he said while speaking in Tala town, near Nairobi.

xviii. All schedules provided in bid documents must be completed. xix. All bids must be submitted in English language. xx. Documentary evidence that the bidder accepts the General and Special Conditions of Contract as indicated in all the forms provided in the bid document.

COLLECTION OF TENDER DOCUMENTS Interested Bidders are to make payment of a non-refundable sum of Twenty Five Thousand Naira (N25,000.00 )only per lot to Federal Roads Maintenance Agency through Remita after which a receipt is to be raised at the Revenue Office, Accounts Department, Ground Floor of the FERMA Headquarters upon presentation of evidence of payment from any of the CBN licensed Commercial Banks.

Bidders are then to collect Bidding documents after showing original and Photostat copies of payment receipt between the hours of 10.00am and 3.00pm, Mondays to Fridays on or before 12noon of Tuesday, August 2, 2016from: The Assistant General Manager (Procurement) Federal Roads Maintenance Agency (FE0RMA) Headquarters Annex Abuja; No. 7 Eldoret Close, Off Aminu Kano Crescent.

Wuse II-Abuja.

Ground Floor, Room GF 003

SUBMISSION/OPENING OF TENDER DOCUMENTS: Interested firms are to submit their bids per Lotin one envelope, sealed and clearly marked on the top left hand corner ''CONFIDENTIAL'' and top right hand corner “TENDER FOR_______(indicatePackage No/Lot No./Project Description/Contract No.)_________” clearly marked “Original” at the bottom right hand corner and addressed to: THE MANAGING DIRECTOR, FEDERAL ROADS MAINTENANCE AGENCY, PLOT 163, AMINU KANO CRESCENT, WUSE II, ABUJA.

ATTENTION: GENERAL MANAGER (PROCUREMENT) And hand delivered not later than 12noon of Tuesday, August 2, 2016to the Office of the Assistant General Manager (Procurement), FERMA Headquarters Annex Abuja, No. 7 Eldoret Close, Off Aminu Kano Crescent, Wuse II-Abuja. Ground Floor, Room GF 003 (include 1 copy clearly marked “Copy” at the bottom right hand corner).

All Bids will be publicly opened immediately after the close of bid submission at the Rockview Royale Hotel, Adetokunbo Ademola Crescent, Wuse II, Abuja.

The Representatives of Companies that submitted bids, Representatives of Professional Bodies and the Civil Societies are invited to witness the opening.

Please note that: i. The Construction works may not attract advance payment. ii. Construction works attract a minimum guarantee period of six (6) months. iii. Contractors who have worked for the Agency and have history of abandonment, termination and/or lack capacity need not apply. iv. Only correctly addressed bids will be received. v. The Agency will not enter into unnecessary correspondence with any Contractor except when deemed fit and in the interest of the bid. vi. All costs incurred by any Company in respect of this advertisement are at her own expense and the Agency shall not entertain any claim whatsoever in this regard. vii. The Agency reserves the right to verify any claim made by any of the Bidders. viii.The Agency reserves the right to suspend or cancel the bidding process at any stage if and when the need arises ix. Late submissions will be rejected.

NON ADHERENCE TO ANY OF THE INSTRUCTIONS ABOVE ATTRACTS AUTOMATIC DISQUALIFICATION.

Signed: MANAGEMENT

Uganda to Withdraw Troops Hunting Rebels in CAR Uganda plans to withdraw troops involved in an operation to hunt down Lord’s Resistance Army (LRA) rebels in Central African Republic by the end of this year, a military spokesman said weekend. Uganda has 2,500 troops tracking the rebels, notorious for mutilating their victims and kidnapping children, and their leader Joseph Kony.

Most of the soldiers are in the Central African Republic, though there is a small contingent in South Sudan.

Spokesman Paddy Ankunda said the withdrawal did not mean Uganda was ending the operation. But while he said the African Union (AU) favoured keeping the troops in place, he said Uganda had

been discouraged by insufficient international support.

“Even when we have international indictments on some of the (LRA) characters, there seems to be no serious goodwill on the part of international actors or stakeholders to participate or contribute toward the ending of the LRA problem,” he said.

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MONDAY JUNE 13, 2016 • T H I S D AY

NEWSEXTRA

FG Must Fulfill School Feeding Promise without States’ 40% Contribution, Says Fayose Says N1.2bn monthly deduction from allocation responsible for non-payment of salaries Olakiitan Victor in Ado Ekiti Ekiti State Governor, Mr. Ayodele Fayose, has insisted that the school feeding programme of the All Progressives Congress (APC)-led federal government must be done without the proposed 40 per cent counterpart funding from the states.

He said: “The federal government is already looking for excuse for the impending failure of the programme by asking states to contribute 40 per cent to the scheme.”

The governor, who said the school feeding programme was purely a contract between the APC-led government and Nigerians, asked that: “Were the states consulted before the APC made the promise during the presidential campaign? How can you make a promise and win election on the basis of that promise and now expect states to help you to fulfil the promise? That to me is a fraud!”

The governor said in a statement issued yesterday by his Special Assistant on Public Communications and New Media, Lere Olayinka, that Ekiti State and other states deserved to benefit from

the programme without assisting the federal government with any 40 per cent counterpart funding.

Fayose said the federal government should rather blame itself for failing to do proper study on the practicability of the scheme before promising Nigerians instead of looking for who to blame for not fulfilling the school feeding promise.

According to him, “Apart from the fact that Ekiti State lacked the wherewithal to provide counterpart fund for such a programme, it is the duty of President Muhammadu Buhari and his party that won election on the basis of their promise to give free meal to school pupils to fulfil the promise without placing any burden on other tiers of government.

“Nigerians should come to term with the reality that the federal government is already looking for an alibi for the impending failure of the school feeding programme.

“The federal government knows that 80 per cent of the states lack the financial will to contribute the 40 per cent counterpart fund for the programme, and the time the programme eventually fails, Nigerians will be told that it failed

because states did not key in to it.

“As for us in Ekiti State, we are interested in the programme because Nigeria belongs to all of us. But we won’t contribute any counterpart fund because the programme is solely an electoral promise of the APC and we were never consulted before the promise was made. We don’t even have the capability to make any financial contribution even if it is 10 per cent because our financial condition is such that we can’t even pay workers salary.”

Meanwhile, a socio-economic group in the state, the Nigeria Progressive Vanguard (NPV), has concluded arrangement to embark on a mass protest against the state government over failure to pay workers’ salaries.

The group lamented that the hardship being faced by the workers was “worrisome, embarrassing and uncalled for” and consequently gave the state governor, Fayose, a 72-hour ultimatum to pay the workers or face mass action.

In a statement by its state Chairman, Bamayi-Lawal Adegoke, and Secretary, Tayo Ojo, the group said the situation at hand calls for broad intervention to save the state and its people from dire consequences.

“The NPV sympathises with workers in the state over their current ordeal. It is unfortunate that the present administration can resort to maltreatment as a compensation for their support and loyalty towards the government since its inception,” the statement concluded.

Meanwhile, Fayose has said the huge debt profile inherited from the immediate past administration which took N25 billion bonds from the capital market and also took N31 billion commercial loans is responsible for the poor financial condition of the state and the challenges faced in the payment of workers’ salaries.

The governor who stated this while reacting to the no-shiftground stance of the striking

workers, said about N1.2 billion is being deducted monthly from the state allocation to service the loans which the Governor Kayode Fayemi administration took in the course of his four years in the saddle.

The governor opined that if the N1.2 billion being deducted is added to the state monthly allocations, his administration will not owe workers.

Speaking through his Chief Press Secretary, Mr. Idowu Adelusi, in Ado-Ekiti yesterday, Fayose took a swipe at the All Progressives Congress (APC) which he said had been lingering the labour to remain adamant on the issue of the strike.

He said it was quite unfortunate that the Fayemi administration also diverted the N850 million meant for the State Universal Basic Education Board, thereby leading to the suspension of the state from the Universal Basic Education Commission programmes since 2012.

Fayose said he was surprised that when Fayemi took the loans which now made payment of workers’ salaries difficult, the labour did not kick against the moves.

The governor said the strike had been politicised because of his criticism of the bad policies of the federal government and his fight against tyranny.

He wondered why some states where workers are owed more salaries than Ekiti are still witnessing the understanding of the situation by labour.

Explaining further, the governor said when he assumed office on October 16, 2014, he negotiated with the creditor commercial banks for moratorium of nine months which enabled him to pay salaries regularly.

He said when the moratorium expired, coupled with monthly deduction of N1.2 billion and the dwindling monthly allocations, three months allocations became grossly insufficient to pay a month salary, subventions and other services.

Kashim Imam: PenCom Saved Guarantee Pension from Collapse Iyobosa Uwugiaren in Abuja Former Presidential Liaison Officer (PLO) and Board Chairman of the First Guarantee Pension Limited (FGPL), Alhaji Ibrahim Kashim Imam, has said the apex regulatory agency of pension administrators, the National Pension Commission (PenCom), saved FGPL from total collapse.

He also described as untrue, the claim by the former Vice Chairman, of the company, Nze Chidi Duru, that he (Duru), was the chief promoter of the company.

Duru, a former member of House of Representatives, had raised the alarm recently that PenCom and some shareholders of FGPL were planning to take over the company he personally promoted from him.

But speaking to journalists in Abuja during the week, Imam described the ex-lawmaker as fraudulent person, who he said had been declared wanted by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC).

He also accused him of betraying the trust and confidence reposed on him, noting that it was surprising that Duru had not been sent to prison, four years after all his alleged fraudulent activities were investigated and established by the PenCom and EFCC. According to him, by 2011 when Duru exited the company , after eight years, following his indictment

by PenCom, the company’s account was in red to the tune of N385 million.

Imam was however quick to add that following the intervention of PenCom, an interim management was formed, and the assets of the

company have been grown to about N140 billion, with profit of over N3billion, just within four years.

On how FGPL was formed, Imam said: ‘’Technically speaking, Duru, cannot even be said to have invested a dime in the business. But we did not know this, until much later.

The deposit we were supposed to make as the initial capital, was never contributed by him. ‘’I agree with you; we ought to have verified this ab initio, and this we did not do based on trust. But like I said, findings later showed that all the cheque he issued for the payment of his own share of the initial deposit were never presented for clearance. ‘’As a matter of fact, another of his friend, Nnamdi Anammah, a supposed investor, is also guilty of the same thing. In all, they both issued seven different cheque, totaling N62 million, but sadly, the money could not be traced in the company’s account.’’

He alleged that Duru issued three different cheque of N10million each, of Guardian Express Bank, with numbers: 221 and 227 and another Diamond bank cheque, while his friend, Anammah, issued two UBA cheque numbers: 3 and 18833, of N10million and N2million respectively, Zenith Bank cheque number for N10million and Reliance Bank cheque number 194 also for N10 million. ‘’And when a few of the shareholders pulled out, he refunded their money to them, issuing cheque in the name of the company to such persons, yet fraudulently appropriating their shares, as his own,” the new chairman of FGPL added.

READY FOR OPEN HEART SURGERY

L-R: Intensive Care Unit Nurse, Filiz Toprakkar; Perfusionist, Huseyin Toprakkar; Cardiovascular Surgeon, Dr. Mustafa Kirman; Specialist of Anesthesiology, Dr. Goksel Bahadir; and Surgery Nurse, Zafer Elbistan, all members of the open heart surgery team of the Nigerian Turkish Nizamiye Hospital, Abuja on their arrival in the country from Turkey...recently

Obasanjo Seeks Promotion of Gas asVehicular, Domestic Fuel Ejiofor Alike Former President, Chief Olusegun Obasanjo, has urged the federal government to promote the use of Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) and Liquefied Petroleum Gas (LPG), better known as cooking gas as vehicular and domestic fuels respectively.

Speaking yesterday at his Hilltop Estate in Abeokuta, Ogun State when top officials of NIPCO Plc visited him to solicit his support for the use of gas as fuel in vehicles and homes, the former President said the policy to use CNG to fuel vehicles was initiated in 2006 during his tenure as the President of the country.

“If other government had

had promoted the use of LPG and CNG in Nigerian half of the country’s vehicles would have been converted to gas.

The essence was to provide alternative to petrol at a reduced cost and to boost national socioeconomic growth,” Obasanjo said.

Obasanjo said apart from the economic gains, CNG would also reduce unfriendly automobile emissions and exposure of Nigerians to the innovation of powering vehicles on gas.

In his speech, the Managing Director of NIPCO Plc, Mr. Venkataraman Venkatapathy, said the use of CNG would save the federal government N2 billion yearly, adding that the CNG project between promoted by his

company is a joint venture scheme called Green Gas Limited (GGL) owned by the Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation (NNPC) and NIPCO. According to him, the GGL initiative, which is the first of its kind in West Africa, has ushered in a new era of vehicles running on the CNG in Nigeria with its attendant benefits Venkatapathy argued that CNG is a superior auto fuel alternation to liquid fuels mainly petrol and diesel specially for countries like Nigeria, which is blessed with abundant availability of natural gas remains untapped.

He further stated that to replace 20 per cent of current petrol, consumption in Nigeria, the natural gas that would be required would

be less than five per cent of the total domestic gas consumed currently and less than one per cent of the current gas production.

“This will save the country over N2billion early on foreign exchange.

In Benin City, Edo, State over 4,000 vehicles run on CNG which resulted in replacing 20 million litres of petrol from 2012 to 2015, which also saved over nine million dollars to the country,’’ he said.

NIPCO MD identified the other benefits to include: low operating cost, lower maintenance cost and it reduced harmful vehicle emissions that cause local air pollution.

According to him, on a mile-tomile basis, CNG will be cheaper than petrol by over 50 per cent and as compared to diesel (on dual fuel mode), by over 45 per cent.

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MONDAY JUNE 13, 2016 • T H I S D AY

NEWSEXTRA

Avengers: Security Agents Trail Togo’s Boys Sylvester Idowu inWarri

Security agents are now on the trail of members of the defunct Niger Delta Liberation Front (NDLF) founded by the late ex-militant leader, John Togo in connection with series of bombings of gas and crude oil pipelines in parts of Delta and Bayelsa States.

THISDAY learnt that the operatives of the Joint Task Force (JTF) and the Nigerian Navy Ship (NNS Delta) have linked members of the defunct group to the renewed crisis in the region.

A highly placed security officer said the militants that carried out last Thursday’s bombings of the crude oil pipeline belonging to Nigerian Petroleum Development Company (NPDC) have been linked to the late Togo.

“The boys that breached crude oil pipeline last Thursday were late John Togo boys. They were sighted at the scene of the blast by soldiers who were on their trail before they fled into the creeks with their high speed boats. At least, they recognised some of them to be John Togo boys,” he said.

The Niger Delta Liberation Front (NDLF), founded by John Togo, was a militant group that had affiliation with the defunct Movement for the Emancipation of the Niger Delta led by Chief Government Ekpemupolo alias “Tompolo.”

The group had then claimed that

their main goal was to secede and gain independence from Nigeria.

Although, Togo was the NDLF’s most notorious member, he was killed on July 19, 2011 by a Nigerian air strike near Warri in Delta State.

During his reign, Togo was notorious on the waterways in both Bayelsa and Delta States robbing and maiming his victims at will.

Security sources told THISDAY that the foot soldiers left by the late Togo are now being suspected to be behind the series of bombings of oil pipelines in the two oil rich states and promised that the long arm of the law will soon catch them.

He said the discovery by security agencies was the reason for a lull in the activities of the Niger Delta Avengers in the past few days, adding “we are closing in on them.”

Commander Nigerian Navy Ship (NNS Delta) Warri, Commodore Raimi Mohammed, refused to pick calls or respond a text message seeking confirmation of the development.

The Nigerian Navy in Warri, penultimate Thursday, arrested a commander of the Niger Delta Avengers and some of his foot soldiers and transferred them to Abuja for further questioning.

Meanwhile, former Chairman of Benikrukru Community in Warri South West Local Government Area of Delta State, Chief Jeffery

260 Kilometres Super Highway: Communities, CSOs Demand Involvement in EIA, Compensation Bassey Inyang in Calabar As controversy surrounding the construction of the proposed 260 kilometres in Cross River State rages, stakeholders in projects; the rainforest communities and civil society organisations (CSOs) have demanded that they be involved in the drafting of an Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA), for the project.

The stakeholder also demanded that compensation be paid to the communities that would be affected by the construction of the proposed super highway, designed to extend from Bakassi in the state to Katsina-Ala in Benue State.

Their demand is coming amid fears that the EIA for the project done in March this year at the instance of the state government, was rejected by the Federal Ministry of Environment for allegedly being inadequate.

The stakeholders made the call in the resolution they reached at a two-day community dialogue and one day EIA training at Okokori and Ekuri communities in the central part of the state, held from June 9 to June 11, 2016, which was coordinated by Health of Mother Earth Foundation (HOMEF).

The demands were contained in a 14-point communiqué signed and issued at the end of the events by representatives of Old Ekuri community; representatives of New Ekuri community; representatives of Okokori community; representatives of Edondon community; Ekuri Initiative, EI; Health of Mother Earth Foundation, HOMEF; Rural Action for Green Environment (RAGE) and Green Concern for Development (GREENCODE).

The rest are Peace Point Action (PPA); Lokiaka Development Centre

(LDC); Rainforest Research and Development Centre (RRDC); and NGO Coalition on Environment (NGOCE).

The document read in part: “At the end of a three day interactive community dialogue and EIA training, participants and community stakeholders from Edondon, Okokori, Old and New Ekuri resolved that they: “Need good roads but do not want their cultural heritage destroyed.

“Insist on active engagement of communities in the EIA process with adequate compensation paid where necessary; Write to Government to register their concerns relating to the proposed super highway project; “Call for NGOs and International agencies support to build a stronger alliance against the super highway project especially with regard to threats to forests; Community’s FPIC must be sought in all projects before implementation; “Protest and resist any unsustainable forest management practices in the forest rich region; Reduce every activity that promotes deforestation; Promote forest conservation and regeneration of indigenous trees in degraded areas.

“Minimise poaching, unregulated hunting and stop illegal wild life trade; Reject use of forest lands for large scale plantations; Campaign against water pollution and the indiscriminate use of chemicals; Strengthen the Community Forest Watch for effective community forest monitoring; Form a community health monitoring group to ensure sustainable forest management practices; and “Help to protect, preserve and conserve their forest which provides them with social, economic, spiritual benefits.”

Ojogun, has condemned the renewed hostilities in the Niger Delta Region.

He, however, appealed to President Muhammadu Buhari not to scrap the Nigerian Maritime University, Okerenkoko.

Ojogun who is the Amadiwei of Benikrukru Community in a press release issued in Warri, described attacks on oil facilities in the region as unfortunate.

The Gbaramatu chief also condemned the invasion of Gbaramatu communities by troops of the JTF. According to him, dialogue should be adopted in resolving the renewed hostilities in the oil-rich Niger Delta Region and commended President Buhari for ordering a two-week ceasefire in the troubled region.

Ojogun advised militants causing unrest in Niger Delta Region to take advantage of the

two weeks ceasefire ordered by the President and take their grievances to the negotiating table.

While urging all and sundry to create a conducive atmosphere for the Ojogun stated that the people of the Kingdom cannot afford another military invasion, saying the memories of the May 2009 invasion were still fresh in the minds of the people.

“I am pained by the recent happening in the Niger Delta Region. The people of the region are responsible and peace-loving and this is why I am appealing that those breaching the peace in the region should allow peace to reign.

“I am worried about the lives and property being wasted and the destruction of our communities as a result of the Niger Delta crisis that is doing nobody any good.

Peace is the answer,” he added.

Ojogun expressed the belief that

the crisis will soon be over and urged his kinsmen and women to desist from anything that will cause more havoc to them and their communities.

“I am a promoter of peace. We in the Niger Delta Region are one people; we are one big family. We must not allow our enemies to divide us. We must remain united.

Let us not betray one another. This is another trying moment for the people of the region and when we are united, we must surely overcome the current challenges.

“The people of Gbaramatu Kingdom are not members of the Niger Delta Avengers and the Kingdom is not a haven for the Avengers, we need peace in the Kingdom. We should not be used to tear our Kingdom into pieces and those working for our enemies to ensure that our people are divided and invaded again should have a rethink,” he posited.

Ojogun urged those attacking oil installations to put a stop to their activities and embrace dialogue with the federal government.

“They should allow the oil companies to commence the repairs of the damaged pipelines because the nation is losing so much daily as a result of the activities of the Niger Delta Avengers, we should not allow these attacks to go on,” he said. Ojogun while expressing gratitude to President Buhari for the ceasefire he ordered in the Niger Delta Region, implored the President to address the vexed issues in the region, saying only development would bring the required peace.

He specifically appealed to the President not to scrap the Nigerian Maritime University, Okerenkoko, approved by the administration of former President.

Goodluck Jonathan.

52

MONDAY JUNE 13, 2016 T H I S D AY

FEDERAL REPUBLIC OF NIGERIA

FEDERAL MINISTRY OF ENVIRONMENT MABUSHI-ABUJA

INVITATION TO TENDER/EXPRESSION OF INTEREST FMENV/2016/ITT/EOI 13th June, 2016

The Federal Ministry of Environment (FME), Mabushi-Abuja wishes to undertake the procurement of Works, Goods and Services in the implementation of Capital Projects under 2016 Appropriation.

2.1 CATEGORY A (WORKS) LOT NO

PROJECT DESCRIPTION

EFC-W-01

Culverts and Drainages at Inana, Gugge and Darangi in Rijau LGA, Niger State

DEPARTMENT

LOCATION

Erosion, Flood & Coastal Zone Management Dept.

Culvets and Drainages in Ibeto, Kura and Yangalo in Erosion, Flood & Magama LGA, Niger State Coastal Zone Management Dept.

Erosion Control and Road Works at Ajase/Igbonla/ Erosion, Flood & Agengbe/ Agbamu Road, Irepodun LGA, Kwara Coastal Zone State Management Dept.

Erosion Control Works in Jegga Town, Kebbi State Erosion, Flood & Coastal Zone Management Dept.

Gully Erosion Control in Afipko North LGA, Ebonyi Erosion, Flood & State Coastal Zone Management Dept.

Culvert, Drainage and Road Works in Selected Erosion, Flood & Areas Of Cross River State Coastal Zone Management Dept.

Erosion Control in Selected LGA in Rivers East Erosion, Flood & Senatorial District, River State Coastal Zone Management Dept.

Construction of Flood and Erosion Relieve Erosion, Flood & Structures In Gulani LGA Coastal Zone Management Dept.

Erosion Control in Ikole Phase II Erosion, Flood & Coastal Zone Management Dept.

Gully Erosion at Dadinkowa Phase I (Collapse of Erosion, Flood & School Fence, Residence) Coastal Zone Management Dept.

Erosion Control Works in Irepodun / Olorunda / Erosion, Flood & Osogbo/ Orolu, Osun State Coastal Zone Management Dept.

Erosion Control Works In Surulere I, Lagos State Erosion, Flood & Coastal Zone Management Dept.

Erosion And Flood Control in Goniri Village Guduba Erosion, Flood & LGA, Yobe State Coastal Zone Management Dept.

Erosion, Flood & Gully Erosion Site at Amuda New Layout with Drainage and Road Construction at Amuda Amachi Coastal Zone Management Dept.

Afikpo North LGA, Ebonyi State Funtua Erosion Control Funtua/Danduma Town Erosion, Flood & Drainage Katsina South, Katsina State Coastal Zone Management Dept.

Erosion Control in Kaduna North Senatorial Zone Erosion, Flood & Coastal Zone Management Dept.

Construction of Culverts in Magama, Dukku, Genu Erosion, Flood & And Awala Coastal Zone Management Dept.

Niger State

EFC-W -18

Erosion Control In Wase Federal Constituency of Plateau State

Plateau State

EFC-W -19

Completion of Dredging and Channelisation of AsaRiver (Ongoing), Phase II

EFC-W-02 EFC-W-03 EFC-W -04 EFC-W -05 EFC-W -06 EFC-W -07 EFC-W -08 EFC-W -09 EFC-W -10 EFC-W -11 EFC-W -12 EFC-W -13 EFC-W -14 EFC-W -15 EFC-W -16 EFC-W -17

EFC-W -20

Erosion Control Dikibotorusinka Community, River State

EFC-W -21

Completion Of Erosion Control And Road Rehabilitation Works, Fisheries Road, Lagos State

EFC-W -22

Erosion Control in Lapai Town in Agaie/Lapai Constituency, Niger State - Phase II

EFC-W -23

Completion of Erosion and Flood Control Works at Ibono Usuk, Nkari Clan, Ini LGA, Akwa Ibom State, Phase II Completion of Flood and Erosion Control in Oyo Town, Atiba Lga, Oyo State - Phase II

EFC-W -24 DDA-W-01

Combating Desertification through Reforestation for climate change mitigation and sustainable land management in the 3 frontline States

Erosion, Flood & Coastal Zone Management Dept.

Erosion, Flood & Coastal Zone Management Dept.

Erosion, Flood & Coastal Zone Management Dept.

Erosion, Flood & Coastal Zone Management Dept.

Erosion, Flood & Coastal Zone Management Dept.

Erosion, Flood & Coastal Zone Management Dept.

Erosion, Flood & Coastal Zone Management Dept.

Drought & Desertification Amelioration Dept.

2. In compliance with the Public Procurement Act 2007, the Federal Ministry of Environment (FME) invites interested, competent and reputable Contractors, service Providers/Consultants with relevant experience and good track records to submit documents necessary for consideration for the execution of the projects as follows:

FRES-W-01 FRES-W-02

Niger State Kwara State Kebbi State

FRES-W-03 PC-W-01

.

Development of Community Herbal Heritage Centre, Otun, Ekiti State FMENV/NYSC Collaboration on Afforestation (Development of Tree Nurseries, Supply of Tree Seedlings and Establishment of Forest Tree Plantation in Two NYSC Farms Sites.

Establishment of Sustainable Management for Selected Critical Wetland Ecosystem and Strengthening of Community Livelihood Establishment of Community Based Waste Management in Nasarawa State.

Ebonyi State

PC-W-02

Establishment of Briquette Plant in Ogoja, Cross River State

Cross River State

PC-W-03

Establishment of Community Based Waste Management in Lokoja, Kogi State.

(Waste Characterization, Dump Site Mapping and Identification, Procurement and Installation of Compost Plant, Procurement and Installation of Melting machine, Procurement and Installation of Crushing Machines and publicity, Evacuation of backlog of waste (Pilot Scale))

PC-W-04

Completion of Millennium Development Goals of Plastic Recycling Project

River State Yobe State Ekiti State

Osun State Lagos State Yobe State

Forestry Department

Ekiti State

Forestry Department

Kwara & Oyo States

Forestry Department

Nationwide

Pollution Control And Environmental Health Dept.

Pollution Control And Environmental Health Dept.

Pollution Control And Environmental Health Dept.

Nasarawa State

Pollution Control And Environmental Health Dept.

Cross River State Kogi State

Kwara State

2.2 CATEGORY B (GOODS) LOT NO

PROJECT DESCRIPTION

DEPARTMENT

EIA-G-01

Supply of Equipment for the Establishment of the EIA Registry

Environmental Abuja Assessment Dept.

Ebonyi State

LOCATION

Katsina State Kaduna State

2.3 CATEGORY C (CONSULTANCY) EIA-C-01

Niger State CC-C-01 CC-C-02

Kwara State CC-C-03

River State Lagos State Niger State Akwa Ibom

CC-C-04

CC-C-05 CC-C-06 EFC-C -01 FRES-C-01

Oyo State FRES-C-02

Jigawa, Bauchi and Sokoto States

FRES-C-03

Revision and Production of EIA Act, development and production of new Environmental guidelines and revision of existing ones Consultancy Service on the implementation of activities from the outcome of the UNFCCC COP 21 (Post COP activities) Consultancy Service on Production of abridged version of Nigeria’s Intended Nationally Determined Contribution (INDC) and development of a National Action Plan (Framework) for the implementation of Nigeria’s INDC. Consultancy Service on Review of National Policy on Climate Change and Development of Strategy Plan Consultancy Service on Preparation and Participation of the 22nd Session of the UNFCCC Conference of Parties (COP) and Kyoto Protocol as well as the Intersessional Preparatory Meetings

Environmental Assessment Dept.

Abuja

Climate Change Department

Nationwide

Climate Change Department

Nationwide

Climate Change Department Climate Change Department

Nationwide

Consultancy Services on National Awareness and Education Campaign on Climate Change.

Consultancy Service on the Establishment of Climate Change Department in States Ministries of Environment Sagama Northern Flood Control Dyke (Consultancy Services)

Climate Change Department Climate Change Department

Nationwide

Erosion, Flood & Coastal Zone Management Dept.

Forestry Department

Bayelsa State

Forestry Department

Nationwide

Forestry Department

Ekiti State

FMENV/NYSC Collaboration on Afforestation (Sensitization and mobilization of NYSC Members, Training of Project Facilitators, Provision of Forestry Extension Manual and TPAs Field Kits) Consultancy on Sustainable Management of Selected Critical Wetland Ecosystems and Strengthening of Community Livelihoods Consultancy for Development of Community Herbal Heritage Centre, Otun-Ekiti, Ekiti State

Nationwide

Nationwide

Abuja

MONDAY JUNE 13, 2016 • T H I S D AY

FEDERAL MINISTRY OF ENVIRONMENT

53

2.4 The Consulting Firms for Category C Projects should submit Expression of Interest (EOI) with General Requirements and bear in mind that only shortlisted Consultants will be invited to collect RFP after payment of non-refundable fee of N20,000 only.

3. MANDATORY REQUIREMENTS WITHOUT WHICH A BIDDER SHALL BE DISQUALIFIED FROM FURTHER PARTICIPATION: Prospective bidders are required to submit the following documents: i. Certificate of Incorporation/Registration with Corporate Affairs Commission (CAC), including Form Co7 ii. Evidence of Current Certification (2016) from PENCOM in accordance with the Pension Reform Act 2004 including evidence of remittances of Employees' Pension Contributions/Deductions; iii. Evidence of Tax Clearance Certificates for the last three years (2015, 2014 & 2013), expiring in December, 2016. iv. Evidence of payment of Training Contributions to Industrial Training Fund (ITF) in compliance with the provisions of ITF Amendment Act 2011; v. Evidence of Compliance with the National Social Insurance Trust Fund (NSITF). vi. A sworn affidavit confirming that all information presented and attached are true and correct of the company and that no officer of the Federal Ministry of Environment is a former or present Director, Shareholder or has any pecuniary interest in the bidder. vii. Evidence of Registration on the BPP National Database Platform for the Contractors, Consultants and Service Providers (Submit Interim Registration the Report from Bureau of Public Procurement).

4. OTHER REQUIREMENTS: i. Company Audited Account for the last 3 years (2015, 2014& 2013) by qualified Auditor and showing annual turnover. The Reporting Auditor shall submit Certificate of Registration with Financial Reporting Council (FRC). ii. Company Profile and Technical qualifications of key personnel with evidence of experience of similar jobs; Evidence of Registration with Relevant Professional Bodies (including Architects, Civil Engineers, Builder and Quantity Surveyors etc.) is mandatory for construction works; (submit with CV and copy of certificates). iii. Verifiable List of similar jobs successfully executed in the last 3 years including Letters of Award of Contracts; Valuation Certifications and Job Completion Certificates (please provide the contact addresses of the Clients). iv. Evidence of Financial Capability from a reputable Bank to execute the Projects (Evidence of Bank Support for the Projects if awarded will form part of the evaluation criteria); v. Company Letter authorizing the Federal Ministry of Environment (FME) to verify all documents submitted for the projects with Relevant Agencies.

Vi. Evidence of Firm's Registration with Professional Bodies. (For Category C only) Vii. The Minimum Turnover required for each project is as specified in the Bidding Documents. ix. All Financial Bids of N300Million Naira and above for Works and 100Million Naira and above for Goods shall be accompanied with 2% Bid Security from a Nigerian Commercial Bank.

5. COLLECTION OF TENDER DOCUMENTS: Tender documents for Goods, Works and Request for Proposal (RFP) are to be obtained from the Procurement Department, Room B301, on the presentation of a copy of the original Treasury Receipts of non-refundable Tender Fee of Twenty thousand (N20,000.00) Naira paid into the Federation Account via any Bank in the country with account details: Account Name:

Accountant General (Federal Sub-Treasury) Account Number: 3000002095 5.1. Please Note that there is no swapping of Bid Documents after purchase.

6. SUBMISSION REQUIREMENTS: I. Two (2) Copies of Completed Technical and Financial Proposals (Original and Photocopy) shall be submitted in two different sealed tamper proof envelopes, the Envelopes shall be labeled “Technical Proposal” and “Financial Proposal” and both to be closed in a third envelope. All the envelopes should bear the “Project Name” and “Lot No.” at the Top Right Hand Corner of the Envelope and addressed to:

Permanent Secretary,

Federal Ministry of Environment,

Mabushi-Abuja. ii. The documents should be deposited in the Tender Boxes at the Auditorium of the Federal Ministry of Environment, (Green Building) Aguiyi Ironsi Way, Maitama, Abuja. Company names should also be written at the reversed side of the envelope. Closing time for all submissions is 12 Noon th prompt on or before 25 July, 2016. Late submissions shall not be entertained. iii. The Closing date for the Expression of Interest (EoI) for all the Consultancy Services is 27th June, 2016. The Opening of the EoI received will commence immediately after the Closing on 27th June, 2016 at 12.00 Noon prompt at Auditorium (Ground floor), Green Building, Federal Ministry of Environment, Plot 14, Aguyi Ironsi Street, Maitama Abuja.

7. OPENING: th Opening of the received documents will commence immediately after the closing on 25 July, 2016, 12.00 Noon prompt at the AUDITORIUM Ground Floor, Green Building, FEDERAL MINISTRY OF ENVIRONMENT Plot 14 Aguiyi Ironsi Street, Maitama, Abuja.

All Bidders and/or their Representatives, Relevant Professional Bodies and NGOs are invited to witness the public opening exercise accordingly.

8. ADDITIONAL INFORMATION: PLEASE NOTE THAT: i. All CAC, VAT, PENCOM, TAX, ITF, Certificates may be referred to the Security Agencies, Corporate Affairs Commission, Federal Inland Revenue Services (FIRS), National Pension Commission and other relevant bodies for verification. ii. The Evaluation of the received documents shall be strictly based on the requirements as specified above and as contained in the Bid Documents. iii. The Federal Ministry of Environment reserves the right to reject any or all the submissions that do not meet up with the requirements as specified.

9. The Ministry is not under any obligation by this advertisement to award a Contract to any bidder and/or applicant and reserve the right to cancel and/or discontinue the procurement process at any stage without incurring any liability thereby to the bidders.

Signed: Permanent Secretary Federal Ministry of Environment

NEWSEXTRA

2

31 Aspirants Jostle to Replace NBA President, Alegeh, Others Arewa lawyers did not adopt Gadzama, says Garungabas Alex Enumah in Abuja As the election into various offices of the national body of the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) begins to gather momentum, no fewer than 31 persons have shown interest in replacing the current President, Mr. Augustine Alegeh (SAN).

In all, a total of 14 positions would be contested for at the election.

Among those who have shown interest in contesting the forthcoming election of the association are renowned lawyer, Joe Gadzama (SAN) and A. B Mamoud (SAN) who are vying for the position of the NBA President.

Gadzama and others emerged at the formal opening of expression of interest/nomination form, which was done in the presence of aspirants, their representatives and observers at the NBA national headquarters, Abuja.

The Chairman of the Electoral Committee, Kenneth Mozia (SAN), who supervised the opening of the forms, assured the aspirants and members of the NBA that his committee would do its best in conducting not just a free, fair and credible election but one that would serve as a model for future elections in the country and beyond.

The chairman disclosed that the committee would immediately go through the forms and published the names of successful candidates, so that those with a special case can know what to do.

“I want to assure you all that the committee would do its best to provide a level playing ground for all contestants. The nomination forms that are been opened publicly is an attestation that we desire to be as transparent as possible.

“The next thing for us now is to go through the forms and publish the names of those that meet the requirement while those that have any complains can also know how

to address them,” he said.

He disclosed further that the association is at the verge of compiling a comprehensive and credible voter register, and advised branches that have not been maintaining an effective register to be up to date to guide against being disenfranchised.

He disclosed that the committee plans to experiment with electronic voting at its NEC meeting in Benin, before the main election, adding that a further stakeholders’ meeting would be held where members can bring in their IT specialist to give more advise on the e-voting.

Mozia, while adding that the rules guiding the conducts of the election would be strictly upheld, however, stated that the guidelines would for the elections would be updated and uploaded on the platform (website) of the NBA and advised aspirants to endeavour to visit the website in order to be properly guided.

He observed that some candidates are already by their conducts running contrary to the electoral laws as well as the constitution of the association and warned that the committee would not hesitate to apply the law on any offender.

However, both aspirants and observers at the opening of the nominations form have commended the chairman and member s of the committee for restoring confidence in the NBA’s election.

A Senior Advocate of Nigeria, Adegboyega Awomolo, who noted that the committee had been very transparent and careful in all its conducts, charged them not to relent in their efforts, adding that the NBA is a reflection of Nigeria and it must do everything to be the best.

“With what I am seeing here today, I am confident that this committee has taken

the right steps that will make the NBA election a model for future elections in the country,” Awomolo said.

Meanwhile. the Secretary of Arewa Lawyers’ Forum and Attorney General of Jigawa State, Hon. Sani Garungabas, has emphatically denied claims by Gadzama that the forum adopted him as the only presidential candidate in the NBA election.

In a swift reaction to the rumoured adoption, Garungabas argued that there was no such adoption which was being stage-managed by a section of the executive committee members in conjunction with Gadzama which view does not enjoy the approval of the generality of the Arewa Lawyers’ Forum; and this was made clear in the meeting of the forum on January 29, 2016.

“This claim is fraudulent,” said Garungabas, “it is false and unfounded as we have not sat down at the executive to pick a candidate or adopt a candidate for the election. It is therefore a premeditated manoeuvre of the electoral procedure to snatch an endorsement that has not been given. No candidate should jump the gun. We are giving a levelplaying field to the candidates.”

The South-West Lawyers’ Forum had also denied Gadzama’s claim that the forum had adopted him as the sole presidential candidate in the forthcoming elections of the NBA. In a press release headlined: “We did not adopt any NBA presidential candidate ...” – Southwest (Yoruba) Lawyers’ Forum, the Secretary of the South-west Lawyers’ Forum, Adebola Lema categorically denied Gadzama’s claim, adding that he had attempted to muscle himself into the forum through the back-door, and such an attempt did not enjoy the approval of the executive members.

Plateau Federal Lawmakers Reject Grazing Reserve Seriki Adinoyi in Jos The senator representing Plateau North in the National Assembly, Jonah David Jang, and the member representing Barkin Ladi/Riyom federal constituency in the House of Representatives, Hon. Istifanus Gyang, have in separate statements rejected grazing reserve policy describing it as anti-people.

In the statement signed by Comrade Clinton Garuba, an aide to Jang, the senator said: “For the federal government which owns no cattle, to connive with willing state governors to impose a grazing reserve policy on helpless citizens who have suffered the brunt of rampaging herdsmen in the recent past is not only an abuse of their rights but an assault on their already battered psyche; and this must be vehemently resisted.”

Jang said his position on grazing reserve policy remained the same both on the floor of the senate and at any other forum that Plateau people have no land to cede to the federal government or any group for grazing.

“As a people who have experienced the atrocities of those who seek to take over our land by whatever means, Plateau people must be resilient in rejecting any law or request that seeks to tamper with their heritage, not even the involvement of the government of the day should deter them,” he warned.

He bemoaned Plateau State Governor, Mr. Simon Lalong, for trying “to play politics with issues that affect the very fabric which defines the heritage of our people, their culture and land,” noting that if the people wanted it, it would not have been generating heated controversy in the state.

He therefore called on the people to “rise up against any subtle attempt or otherwise to cede their land for the purpose of satisfying the selfish and egotistical whims of a few who are hell bent on disturbing the peace of the state.”

Also speaking, Gyang in a statement signed by his media aide, Mr. Chuwang Dungs, cautioned Lalong against taking actions that would be regretted in the long run,

noting that it could plunge the state into crisis.

He warned that no portion of lands within his constituency should be gazette for such grazing plans because his people vehemently disagree with it.

Gyang said: “The federal government being aware that it has no constitutional powers to administer land matters, has resorted to the powers vested on governors under section 2 of the Land Use Act embedded in section 315 (5d) of the 1999 Constitution (as amended) by seeking the consent and approval of willing governors to allocate land within their states for the implementation of the grazing reserve policy.

“My take on this matter as it relates to Plateau State, especially the Barkin Ladi/Riyom Federal Constituency which I represent, is this: my constituency is just recovering from over a decade of violent attacks, and our lands are still under forceful occupation by herdsmen. The constituency or any part thereof cannot be within the contemplation of a grazing reserve.”

54

MONDAY JUNE 13, 2016 T H I S D AY

FEDERAL GOVERNMENT OF NIGERIA

FEDERAL MINISTRY OF WATER RESOURCES OLD SECRETARIAT, AREA 1, GARKI ABUJA.

INVITATION FOR TECHNICAL AND FINANCIAL BIDS FOR THE IMPLEMENTATION OF 2016 CAPITAL AND ZONAL INTERVENTION PROJECTS 1.0

INTRODUCTION The Federal Ministry of Water Resources (FMWR) wishes to undertake the procurement of various Works under the 2016 Capital Appropriation.

Incompliance with the Public Procurement Act 2007, FMWR invites interested and qualified Contractors and Suppliers for the procurement and execution of the under listed projects:

1.0.CATEGORY C: GOODS:

LOT NO C1 C2 C3 C4 C5

PROJECT TITLE/DESCRIPTION

LOCATION

Purchase of 30 Seater Coaster Bus with Air-Conditioner Purchase of Four (4) Wheel Drive Pickup Acquisition of Softwares, Data Collection Equipment with Capacity Building.

Data Management and Communication Equipments.

Purchase of Agricultural Support items and Fertilizers.

Abuja Abuja Abuja Abuja Abuja

2.1. CATEGORY D: WORKS LOT NO

D1 D2 D3 D4 D5 D6 D7 D8 D9

D10 D11 D12 D13 D14 D15 D16 D17 D18 D19 D20 D21 D22 D23 D24 D25 E

PROJECT TITLE/DESCRIPTION

General Roofing of Old Building Including Replacement of Metal Roofing Carcas External Works: Landscaping, Car Parks, General Reconditioning of the Sewerage System and Gutter Demarcation and Area Computation of Hadejia Valley Irrigation Schemes Rehabiliation/Upgrading of Kafin Hausa Water Supply Scheme Construction of Solar Boreholes at Various Locations in Hadejia South Senatorial District.

Construction of Solar Boreholes at Various Locat ions in Hadeiia West Construction of Solar Boreholes at Various Locations in Hadeiia East Senatorial District Construction of Sola Boreholes at Guri and Others Construction of Solar Boreholes at Baturiya and other Communities Construction of Hand Pump Borholes at Hadejia West (Malam Madori LGA and Kaugama LGA) Construction of Hand Pump Boreholes at Hadejia East (Birniwa LGA, Guri LGA and Kirikasamma LGA) Construction of Hand Pump Boreholes at Hadejia South (K/Hausa LGA and AUYO LGA) Rehabilitation/Upgrading of Malammadori Water Supply Scheme Construction of Water Supply Scheme for Kwami, Gadam, and Bojude in Gombe State Augumentation of Usman Danfodio University Water Supply Project, Sokoto State Drilling of Boreholes Treatment Plant, Storage Tanks and Limited Reticulation for Oji River Regional Water Supply Construction of Orumba North Water Supply /Intake Structure Project.

Construction of Earth Dam in Mbachough, Tarka, LGA, Benue North East Senatorial District, Benue State Provision of Solar Powered Boreholes, Tank a nd Reticulation at Gamamwa Federal Constituency, Bauchi State Machina Water Supply Project, Machina Town Construction of 4 Solar Motorized Boreholes in Kebbi State Ten (10) Hand Pump Boreholes in: Shagamu LGA, Ikenne LGA and Remo North LGA in Ogun State Flood Channelization and Gully Reclamation Work in Dyegh Mbaathikya,in Buruku LGA,Benue State.

Construction of Bridge at Amazuri Earth Dam .

Construction of 3Km Access Road at Ogwashiuku Dam to enhance access to Dam Site Construction of Solar - Motorised Boreholes Nationwide, Disaster Areas (IDPs) and Public Institutions.

vi Verifiable evidence of Compliance with the Employees Compensation Act which requires all employers of labour to remit 1% of the total annual emolument of workers to the National Social Insurance Trust fund (NSITF); vii. Verifiable Evidence of the Company's Audited Accounts for the last three years from a professional registered with Financial Reporting Council of Nigeria (2013, 2014, 2015); viii Sworn Affidavit: a. Of the company not being in receivership or insolvency or bankruptcy; b. Disclosing whether or not any officer of the relevant Committees of the procuring entity or BPP is a former or present Director who has any pecuniary interest in the bidder; c. Of not having any Director who has been convicted in any country for any criminal offence; d. Confirming that all information presented in its bid are true and correct in all submission.

ADDITIONAL REQUIREMENTS: i. Detailed Company Profile showing verifiable evidence of possession of experience in the similar job and submission of at least three projects of similar nature and complexity applied for with Letters of award and job completion certificates in the last five years; ii. Evidence of possession of adequate qualified personnel with their Curriculum Vitae and ability to perform the obligation of the contract; iii. Verifiable evidence of financial capability to execute the project from the Consultants Bank; iv. Verifiable evidence of payment of a non-refundable tender fee of N20, 000.00 (Twenty Thousand Naira) only; v. Verifiable Evidence of Tools and Equipment to be used and their locations as well as whether the Tools or Equipment are by lease or owned; vi. Verifiable evidence of Certificate of the Firm's Registration with Surveyor Council of Nigeria (SURCON) as well as cognate experience on similar Projects for Lot D3 only. *Proposal must be paginate and items required above to be arranged in the order of sequence as listed.

LOCATION

Abuja Abuja

Jigawa State Jigawa State Jigawa State Jigawa State Jigawa State Jigawa State Jigawa State

4.0. PAYMENT AND COLLECTION OF BID DOCUMENTS: Interested bidders are to contact their banks for the code upon which a non-refundable tender fee of N20, 000.00 (Twenty Thousand Naira only) is paid into the Treasury Single Account (TSA) of the Ministry. Collection of Tender Documents upon the presentation of evidence of payment of the tender fee to the OFFICE OF THE DIRECTOR, PROCUREMENT DEPARTMENT, FEDERAL MINISTRY OF WATER RESOURCES, 1ST FLOOR, ROOM106, NEW OFFICE EXTENSION, OLD SECRETARIAT, GARKI, ABUJA.

Jigawa State Jigawa State Jigawa State Jigawa State Gombe State

5.0 SUBMISSION: Completed and signed Technical & Financial bids one (1) original and two (2) photocopies) shall be submitted in a sealed separate envelopes, and both enclosed another sealed tamper proof envelope and labeled the ”CATEGORY” with “The Project Name” and “ Lot No.” at the Top Right Hand Corner of the Envelope and Company names should also be written at the reverse side of the envelope and addressed to:OFFICE OF THE DIRECTOR, PROCUREMENT DEPARTMENT, FEDERAL MINISTRY OF WATER RESOURCES, 1ST FLOOR, ROOM106, NEW OFFICE EXTENSION, OLD SECRETARIAT, GARKI, ABUJA, and deposited in the tenders boxes in front of the Office of the Director of Procurement, Federal Ministry of Water Resources, New Building, Old Secretariat, Garki, Abuja.

Sokoto State Anambra State Anambra State Benue State Bauchi State Yobe State Kebbi State Ogun State

6.0 CLOSING OF BIDS SUBMISSION: Closing date and time for all submission is on 12noon, Tuesday 26th July,2016.

7.0 OPENING OF BIDS: Opening of the received documents will commence immediately after the closing date at 12noon prompt as stated above at the Court yard of the Ministry. All Contractors/Suppliers and/or their representatives, Relevant Professional Bodies and NGO's are invited to witness the public opening exercise accordingly. Late submissions shall not be entertained.

Benue State Imo State Delta State Nationwide.

3.O. MANDATORY REQUIREMENTS: i Verifiable Evidence of Certificate of Registration with Corporate Affairs Commission (CAC) by inclusion of Certificate of Incorporation; ii Verifiable Evidence of current Tax Clearance Certificate for the last three years (2013, 2014 & 2015); iii Verifiable Evidence of Compliance with the Industrial Training Fund Amendment Act,2011 by inclusion of Compliance Certificate from the Industrial Training Fund (ITF) for (2016); iv Verifiable Evidence of Compliance with Pension Reform Act, 2004, by inclusion of Compliance Certificate from the National Pension Commission (PENCOM) for 2016; v Verifiable Evidence of registration on the National Database of Contractors, Consultants and Service Providers with the Bureau of Public Procurement (BPP) by submission of the Interim Registration Report (IRR) as evidence of compliance;

8.0 PLEASE NOTE: i. Bidders shall not bid for more than two (2) projects, if discovered, Bidder will be disqualified; ii. A positive review of Procurement Documentation may be carried out where Contractors, Suppliers and Service Providers may be required to present the original copies of their CAC, VAT, PENCOM, TAX, ITF, FRCN, NSITF Certificates and may thereafter refer any/all to the relevant Security Agencies, Corporate Affairs Commission, Federal Inland Revenue Services (FIRS), National Pension Commission and other relevant bodies for verification. iii. The Federal Ministry of Water Resources reserves the right to reject any or all the submissions that do not meet up with the requirements as specified.

9.0 DISCLAIMER AND CONCLUSION: i. This advertisement shall not be construed as a commitment on the part of the Ministry to award any or all of the above listed projects; ii. The Ministry will not be responsible for any costs or expenses incurred by any Bidder in connection with the preparation of their documents; iii. The Ministry is not bound to shortlist any bidder and reserve the right to annual the selection process at any time without incurring any liabilities to any Bidder.

Signed Permanent Secretary

MONDAY JUNE 13, 2016 • T H I S D AY

55

NEWSEXTRA FEDERAL GOVERNMENT OF NIGERIA

FEDERAL MINISTRY OF WATER RESOURCES OLD SECRETARIAT, AREA 1, GARKI ABUJA.

INVITATION FOR EXPRESSION OF INTERESTS (EoI) AND PREQUALIFICATIONS INTRODUCTION The Federal Ministry of Water Resources (FMWR) wishes to undertake the procurement of various Works, Goods and Services under the 2016 Capital Appropriation. Incompliance with the Public Procurement Act 2007, FMWR invites interested and qualified Consultants/Contractors for the procurement and execution of the under listed projects: 2.0

CATEGORY A: CONSULTANCY SERVICES. Request for Expression of Interest (EoI) for Consultants for the following projects:-

LOT NO. A1 A2 A3 A4

PROJECT DESCRIPTION Feasibility Study and Design of Donga-Suntai Irrigation Project.

Feasibility Study and Design of Nasarawa Irrigation Project.

Study and Design of Orumba North Water Supply Scheme.

Study and Design of Patigi Regional Water Supply Scheme, Phase II. Consultancy Services for Study and Design of Amazuri Earth Dam Bridge.

A5 3.0 CATEGORY B:

LOCATION Tara ba State Nasarawa State Anambra State Niger State Imo State

INVITATION FOR PREQUALIFICATION OF TECHNICAL BIDS FOR LARGE INFRASTRUCTURAL WATER PROJECTS.

3.1 Interested qualified contractors are invited to submit the company's technical bids for prequalification in the execution of large infrastructural Water Project: LOT B B1

PROJECT DESCRIPTION Rehabilitation/Upgrading of Hadejia Water Supply Scheme.

LOCATION Jigawa State

B2

Construction of Water Works and Reticulation Phase II in Bauchi State

Bauchi State

B3

Construction of Water Treatment Plant Phase II in Bauchi State

Bauchi State

B4 B5

Osun State Construction of Ilobu Water Supply Scheme, Osun State.

Osun State

Construction of Osogbo Water Supply Scheme, Osun State.

4.0 ELIGIBILITY REQUIREMENTS: 4.1 MANDATORY REQUIREMENTS: i Verifiable Evidence of Certificate of Registration with Corporate Affairs Commission (CAC) by inclusion of Certificate of Incorporation; ii Verifiable Evidence of current Tax Clearance Certificate for the last three years (2013, 2014 & 2015); iii Verifiable Evidence of Compliance with the Industrial Training Fund Amendment Act,2011 by inclusion of Compliance Certificate from the Industrial Training Fund (ITF) for (2016); iv Verifiable Evidence of Compliance with Pension Reform Act, 2004, by inclusion of Compliance Certificate from the National Pension Commission (PENCOM) for 2016; v Verifiable Evidence of registration on the National Database of Contractors, Consultants and Service Providers with the Bureau of Public Procurement (BPP); by submission of the Interim Registration Report (IRR) as evidence of compliance; vi Verifiable Evidence of Compliance with the Employees Compensation Act which requires all employers of labour to remit 1% of the total annual emolument of workers to the National Social Insurance Trust fund (NSITF); vii Verifiable Evidence of Certificate of the Firm's Registration with COREN for Category A; viii. Verifiable Evidence of the Company's Audited Accounts for the last three years from a professional registered with Financial Reporting Council of Nigeria (2013, 2014, 2015); ix. Sworn Affidavit: a. Of the company not being in receivership or insolvency or bankruptcy; b. Disclosing whether or not any officer of the relevant Committees of the procuring entity or BPP is a former or present Director who has any pecuniary interest in the bidder; c. Of not having any Director who has been convicted in any country for any criminal offence; d. Confirming that all information presented in its bid are true and correct in all submission.

ADDITIONAL REQUIREMENTS: i. Detailed Company Profile showing verifiable evidence of possession of experience in the similar job and submission of at least three projects of similar nature and complexity applied for with Letters of award and job completion certificates in the last five years; ii. Evidence of possession of adequate qualified personnel with their Curriculum Vitae and ability to perform the obligation of the contract and Project Manager of at least 10 years experience in the study and design of similar nature for Category A and Project Manager of at least 10 Years experience for Category B; iii. Verifiable evidence of financial capability to execute the project from a reputable Bank of the Firm/Company; iv. Verifiable evidence of payment of a non-refundable payment of N20,000.00 (Twenty Thousand Naira) only through TSA Remita; v. Verifiable Evidence of Tools and Equipment to be used and their locations as well as whether the Tools or Equipment are by lease or owned for Category B;; vi. Verifiable evidence of financial capability with financial support from a reputable Bank to the tune of N100M and above to execute the project for Category B; vii. Verifiable evidence of Annual Turnover of not less than N100M in the last three years for Category B. *Proposal must be paginated and items required above to be arranged in the order of sequence as listed.

5.0 SUBMISSION OF EXPRESSION OF INTEREST (EoI) DOCUMENTS: Interested Consultants should submit One (1) original and Two (2) photocopies of their Expression of Interest (EoI) with the Lot No. written at the top of the envelope and name of Company and address at the back of envelope, while Completed Technical bids (two sets of hard copies) should be submitted in 1 sealed envelope and labeled “Technical bids'' for Category B with Project Name at the Top Right Hand corner with company name behind and submit to: OFFICE OF THE DIRECTOR OF PROCUREMENT, FEDERAL MINISTRY OF WATER RESOURCES, 1ST FLOOR, ROOM 106, NEW OFFICE EXTENSION OLD SECRETARIAT, AREA 1, GARKI, ABUJA. on or before 12.00noon, Tuesday 28th June, 2016, 6.0 OPENING OF BID DOCUMENTS: Documents for both Category A and Category B would be opened the same day immediately after the close of submission at the Ministry's Court yard. Please note that only Firms/Companies who fulfill the requirements would be invited to collect the Request for Proposal (RfP) for Category A and only Companies whose pre-qualification documents fulfill the minimum requirements would be invited for the 2nd Stage Bidding.

7.0 PLEASE NOTE: i. Bidders shall not bid for more than two (2) projects, if discovered, Bidder will be disqualified; ii. A positive review of Procurement Documentation may be carried out where Contractors, Suppliers and Service Providers may be required to present the original copies of their CAC, VAT, PENCOM, TAX, ITF, FRCN, NSITF Certificates and may thereafter refer any/all to the relevant Security Agencies, Corporate Affairs Commission, Federal Inland Revenue Services (FIRS), National Pension Commission and other relevant bodies for verification. iii. The Federal Ministry of Water Resources reserves the right to reject any or all the submissions that do not meet up with the requirements as specified.

8.0 DISCLAIMER AND CONCLUSION: i. This advertisement shall not be construed as a commitment on the part of the Ministry to award any or all of the above listed projects; ii. The Ministry will not be responsible for any costs or expenses incurred by any Bidder in connection with the preparation of their documents; iii. The Ministry is not bound to shortlist any bidder and reserve the right to annul the selection process at any time without incurring any liabilities to any Bidder.

Signed Permanent Secretary

Abia APC Finally Reconciles, Targets Govt House in 2019 Emmanuel Ugwu in Umuahia The leadership crisis rocking the Abia State chapter of the All Progressives Congress (APC) was finally been resolved at the weekend with the two factions coming together to purse a common goal of taking control of Abia in 2019.

Abia APC was bedevilled by lack of unity among its leaders and went into the 2015 general election without closing ranks hence its abysmal performance that saw none of its candidates securing a seat in the state and National Assembly.

Its governorship standard bearer came a very distant third.

But after a peace meeting brokered by the zonal leadership of the party, the two Abia factions solidified their peace agreement by harmonising the positions in a unified state executive committee with Hon Donatus Nwankpa as chairman. The chairman of the hitherto faction, Fabian Okonkwo was given the position of organising secretary at the zonal level.

The National Vice-chairman, South-east, Chief Emma Enukwu, who presided at the ceremony where party offices were harmonised for the factions, said Abia APC needed the support of every member in order to succeed in its goal of taking power in God’s

own state.

“The assignment of the state chairman and his new executives is to work hard to ensure that we take over Abia state in 2019,” he said.

He added that with the party already in charge at the federal level no member of the party should feel that he would not be rewarded for working for the success of the party as reward could be at state or federal level.

To make the peace meeting authentic, all the major actors in the factional war were present at the peace meeting, including Chief Ikechi Emenike, Chief Acho Obioma and Chief Nyerere Anyim, who was the party’s governorship candidate in the 2015 election.

One after the other, the party chieftains in their respective remarks acknowledged that there was “disagreement and differences” among the leaders but welcomed the new spirit of oneness and pledged to strengthen the party for future challenges.

“We are brothers; we are together,” declared Anyim, adding that the new state executives must be ready to move the party forward “with the zeal we started the party.”

Emenike, who had backed one of the factions, said a lot of people made sacrifices for the party and it would not be in vain, adding that those who still “feel bad”

“The bottom line is that we’re (now) one and no one should discriminate,” he said, adding that the harmonisation achieved at the state level should be deepened to the local government and ward levels for the party to attain meaningful unity.

In his remarks, Acho Obioma, who was the senatorial candidate of APC for Abia central in 2015, said it had been long the party was expected to close ranks, noting that though “it was a difficult challenge, what we’ve done is to make sacrifices to keep the party together.”

Senator Nkechi Nwaogu was effusive in commending the leaders of the feuding factions for allowing peace to return and dwell in Abia APC, saying that “our train is now moving without stumbling (because) this is the party that should be in power in Abia State.”

The chairman of the harmonised state executive, Hon. Nwankpa, pledged to take the party right to the grassroots where power belongs as it would be futile to sit in the state capital and hope to effectively rebuild the party with credible people at the wards.

“We will embark on operation restructure APC in Abia,” he said, and announced that the party would not be encumbered by the zoning principle as “we are marching to get power in 2019.”

Community Threatens ExxonMobil over Oil Spill Clean-up Okon Bassey in Uyo One of the hosts to ExxonMobil oil facilities in Akwa Ibom State, the Ibeno community has given the oil major one week ultimatum to clean up the latest oil spill alleged from its facility or faced sanctioned in the area.

Also, the inability or refusal by ExxonMobil to disclose the actual quantity of oil spill allegedly recorded from its installation at Ibeno recently has raised dust when JointInspection Team (JIT) of stakeholders visited the site of the spill weekend.

TheAkwa Ibom State Government had in a meeting held June 1, 2016 orderedtheJITcomprisingrepresentatives from Ibeno community, ExxonMobil, Depthwize Nigeria Limited, NOSDRA and other stakeholders to investigate the latest oil spill reported in the area and the clean-up procedures.

Issuing the ultimatum for the clean-up, a representative of the Ibeno community in the team, Chief Okon Udofia, expressed displeasure over the exercise

describing it as inconclusive.

Udifua who bared his mind to reporters at the end of touring the oil spill site, said the exercise was inconclusive because ExxobMobil could not give the quantity of barrels of crude oil spilled to the coastal region of Ibeno communities.

He alleged that the oil giant tactically refused to disclose the quantity of barrels of crude lost during the oil spill in the area hence since the barrels of oil was not determined the visit was as inconclusive.

According to him, the tasks before the JIT were among other things to determinesourceofthespill,thevolume of crude that spill and the areas that were impacted by the oil spill.

“The barrels of spill were another controversy, based on production data’s that will be giving to us by ExxonMobil to determine the cause of volume of oil but was not done.

“Wewereabletodeterminethearea wheretheoilspillimpacted;ExxonMobil was supposed to commence clean-up butuptillnownothinghadbeendone,’ Udofia said.

He said during the inspection the sampleandevidenceofthecommunities impactedweremarkedoutbytheteam for possible clean-up.

“We have sample and evidence of all the areas where oil spill impacted, we were able to mark out areas that were impacted for possible clean-up by ExxonMobil but nothing happened”, he stressed.

He maintained that the concerned of the impacted communities were for the environment to be remediated by the oil giant.

The state Director of the National Oil Spill Detection and Response Agency (NOSDRA), Mr. Enyi Udeogu, declined comment on the JIT visit, saying “you are not my boss, I will talk to my boss, the outcome of the meeting, I am sorry I cannot help you.”

On his part, the Manager, Media and Communications of ExxonMobil, Mr. Ogechukwu Udeagha said the team was raised to oversee the cleanup of the damaged beach caused by the Depthwize Drilling Rig Monarch.

Kogi Govt Names State University after Prince Abubakar Audu Yekini Jimoh in Lokoja The Kogi State Governor, Alhaji Yahaya Bello, has named the state university after the first Executive Governor of Kogi State, late Prince Abubakar Audu, who was the gubernatorial candidate of All Progressives Congress (APC) in the last year governorship election in the state.

The governor who disclosed this during a state broadcast over the weekend on his judicial victories at the Kogi State Elections Petitions Tribunal said: “In this matter, I declare that there is neither victor,

nor vanquished.

“Today, and as always, I celebrate the life and times of Prince Abubakar Audu, the first Executive Governor of Kogi State. It is our hope that those who want to lay claim to his legacy will at least develop the same heart for the growth and development of the state that he demonstrated throughout his lifetime.

“We will continue to honor him and recognise his contributions. It is against this backdrop that I immortalise our fallen hero by naming Kogi State University after him as Prince

Abubakar Audu University. I will send an executive bill to the state House of Assembly for confirmation,” he promised.

He noted that a total of five elections petitions were filed against him by various actors who also contested as candidates or not, but failed in those elections.

The governor stressed that the petition by Hon. James Faleke was a bit harder to come to terms with because it came from within the ranks of their party, the All Progressives Congress (APC).

56

MONDAY JUNE 13, 2016 T H I S D AY

MINISTRY OF NIGER DELTA AFFAIRS FEDERAL SECRETARIAT SHEHU SHAGARI WAY, CBD, ABUJA

INVITATION FOR PREQUALIFICATION AND DIRECT TENDERING FOR WORKS, GOODS AND EXPRESSION OF INTREST FOR CONSULTANCY SERVICES FOR THE 2016 CAPITAL PROJECTS. 1.0 INTRODUCTION The Ministry of Niger Delta Affairs, in furtherance of its statutory mandate, intends to implement some capital projects after securing some funds in the 2016 Appropriation Act. The Ministry therefore invites interested contractors, suppliers, consultants and service providers with requisite expertise and experience to tender for the procurement of works, goods and services to be provided in various states of the Niger Delta Region as summarized in the following tables:

MONDAY JUNE 13, 2016 • T H I S D AY

57

NEWSEXTRA 2.0

METHOD OF APPLICATION

Interested contractors with requisite qualifications for executions of the projects in Lots I1-2 are to submit their company profiles including relevant qualification documents as listed in 3.0 below.

Contractors, suppliers, consultants and service providers who are interested in Lots A-H are required to obtain Tender Documents from Room 3A 0.15 Ground Floor upon payment of a non-refundable fee of Ten Thousand Naira (N10,000.00) only per Lot to the Ministry’s TSA account in any commercial Bank.

3.0

QUALIFICATIONS REQUIREMENTS:

Interested and Competent Contractor who wish to participate in the exercise are required to sumbit their Company’s profile which must include but not limited to the following documents which should also be arranged in the following order: i.

Evidence of Incorporation/Registration with Corporate Affairs Commission (CAC)

iii.

Evidence of VAT Registration and remittances

v.

Evidence of payment to the Industrial Training Funds (ITF).

ii.

Copy of Tax clearance certificates for the past three (3) years.(2013,2014 & 2015)

iv.

PENCOM compliance Certificate with proof of remittances

vi.

Evidence of Registration with the National Data Base of Contractors (BPP).

vii.

Company Audited Account for the past three (3) years, stamped and signed (2013,2014 and 2015).

viii.

Detail Curriculum Vitae and profile of key / Professional Staff with copies of relevant certificates

ix.

Evidence of previous experience in execution of Works/Services of similar nature.

x.

Evidence of Financial capability and/or Banking support

xi.

Evidence of capacity to provide vocational skilled training programme in the field (for Lot C1- 5 only).

xii.

Firm’s corporate registration with the appropriate professional body to undertake the respective projects (e.g. COREN, ARCON, CORBON, SURCON etc.).

xiii.

Sworn Affidavit confirming the following:-

xiv.

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designated

a)

That no staff of the Ministry of Niger Delta Affairs is a Director of the Company;

b)

That the company is capable of carrying out the services in the Niger Delta region;

c)

That neither the company nor any of its Directors is bankrupt or in receivership; and

d)

That none of the Directors have been convicted in any law court on any criminal offence.

Evidence of registration with Federal Ministry of Environment to conduct EIA (for LOT E).

SUBMISSION OF DOCUMENTS

The completed tender documents are to be submitted in two (2) hard copies in sealed envelope clearly marked with the appropriate project title and Lot no of the project at the top right hand corner and address as follows:

Quit Oversea Trips and Settle to Governance, Bishop Tells Buhari David-Chyddy Eleke in Awka The Anglican Bishop of Amichi Diocese of the Anglican Communion, Bishop Ephraim Ikeakor, has called on President Muhammadu Buhari to quit foreign trips and settle down in Nigeria to the business of governance.

Ikeakor who was delivering his presidential address at the second session of the third synod of the diocese said, “we humbly advise our dear president to drastically trim down his overseas trips, and settle down for business of governance.”

The Bishop in the report which was delivered on Saturday to a large audience who attended this year’s synod added, “by these incessant trips for whatever reasons, we are getting the feelers from the President’s body language that Nigeria cannot solve her internal problems from within.

“Secondly, it is suggesting that we want to recline on the table of neo-colonialism where the western world solely determine problem how we will govern ourselves.

Thirdly, it could mean that the present government does not have any reliable blue print with which to execute her much orchestrated

change mantra.

“Which ever is the case, the bottom line is, let the President settle down in his country for governance. Western Ideologies, no matter how brilliant, without concrete domestication and contextualisation must always be a problem to our nation,” he said.

The bishop also commended the present administration for the remarkable improvement and impact in addressing and fighting the terrorist religious group known as Boko Haram.

“There is no doubt that the security situation in the Northeast of Nigeria in particular is getting better.

But it is very apt and logical to state here that the Boko Haram activities have assumed new and more deadly dimension.

No one should be kept in doubt any longer that the Boko Haram sect has translated and metamorphosed into the dreaded Fulani’s herdsmen.

“The senseless manner in which this unofficially trained terror group is slaughtering and wasting resourceful human lives is not just mind boggling but very traumatic.

The unexplainable coldness, and silence being exhibited by the

federal government in the face of these atrocities should give every right thinking Nigerian sleepless nights.

“The unremorseful audacity with which this herdsmen destroy farm lands and crops in different parts of the country without the intervention of our security agencies calls for concern.”

On the state of the nation’s economy the clergy man described the economy of this country as fast dwindling and even nose-diving on daily basis. He said the current exchange rate of the Naira to other foreign currencies is not just terrible, but very embarrassing, and there seems to be no solution in sight.

He said: “No matter what approach or slogan the government introduces to salvage the economy, nothing meaningful will ever happen without enhancing industrialisation. No concrete industrialisation can take place in the absence of reliable and stable power supply.

“Why has it become almost impossible to fix the power sector in this country? Is it not time for the president to unmask this heartless and monstrous cabals that have held our nation to ransom?”

UFUK Dialogue Seeks End to Violent Extremism in Nigeria

The Honourable Minister,

Ugo Aliogo

Ministry of Niger Delta Affairs, Fed. Sec. Complex, Phase 1, Shehu Shagari Way, Central Business District, Abuja.

Completed bids are to be submitted in Room 3A 0.15, Ground Floor, Federal Secretariat, Phase 1 not later than 12.00 noon on Wednesday 13th July, 2016.

The bids will be opened on the same day (13th July, 2016) at the SGF Conference room, ground floor immediately after the close of bid 12.00pm in the presence of Bidders or their Representatives and NonGovernmental Organisations (NGOs).

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ENQUIRIES

All enquiries should be directed to; Director, Procurement, Ministry of Niger Delta Affairs, 9th Floor, Phase 1, Federal Secretariat Complex, Shehu Shagari Way, Abuja.

08030834763 NOTE i.

The Ministry may verify any or all the claims made by bidders and shall disqualify any company whose claims are found to be false in addition to other sanctions that may be deemed necessary;

ii.

Bidders who have worked for the Ministry and have history of poor performance, abandonment or prolonged contract execution period need not apply;

iii.

This advertisement shall not entitle any bidder to make claim whatsoever, and /or seek any indemnity from the Ministry;

iv

All submission pages must be duly initialed by relevant staff of the company;

Vi.

Two (2) hard copies and one (1) soft copy of proposals (Technical & Financial where applicable) are to be submitted for each lot applied for;

vii.

Non-compliance to the instruction will lead to disqualification.

Sign, Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Niger Delta Affairs

UFUK Dialogue, an international non-governmental organisation based in Abuja has sought an end to violent extremism in Nigeria through love and tolerance.

This much was revealed at an international conference on love and tolerance organised by UFUK Dialogue in collaboration with the Institute of Peace and Conflict Resolution in Abuja recently.

The conference which was well attended, had speakers like Cardinal John Onaiyekan, Archbishop of Abuja, Dr Rachel Rudolph, an international expert on religious extremism and a host of other international speakers.

The Minster of Youths and Sports, Solomon Dalung, who was among the panellists at the event, spoke extensively on the origin of the Boko Haram insurgency and how the lack of tolerance further gave steam to the insurgents to continue to cause havoc and pitch the Christians against the Muslims through their activities and making it look like a religious crisis.

“Boko Haram insurgents took

advantage of our impatience and intolerance to cause havoc. The Koran does not encourage killing and likewise the Bible,” he stated.

On his part, the Director General of the IPCR, Prof. Oshita Oshita, said: “Ihe event was aimed at highlighting love and tolerance as veritable tools towards countering violent extremism in the society.

“We cannot ignore the role of tolerance and love in every functional society. And it must be stated emphatically that what Nigeria needs at this point in time is love and tolerance” he stated.

He also added that “ with love in our hearts, we would be able to tolerate one another, including our religious affiliation and cultural inclination” In his remark, the Archbishop of Abuja Diocese, Cardinal John Onaiyekan, who was one of the religious leaders present at the event, commended the UFUK Dialogue for its insight in putting together such an important event.

“UFUK Dialogue must be commended for this wonderful initiative. This is very timely especially in this period of our existence.”

Commenting of the objective of the conference, the Director of UFUK Dialogue, Mr. Kamil Kemanci, stated: “The conference is aimed at ensuring that love and tolerance continue to dominate our actions, inactions and relationships in the quest to build a better society for all”. He further added that UFUK Dialogue Foundation aims to stimulate thinking and exchange of opinions towards fostering democracy and peace all over the world”.

The well-attended event had in attendance representatives of the religious and political class, as well as representatives of the service chiefs and the Inspector General of Police.

The technical session was chaired by Mrs Sardutu Shehu Mardi of the Women’s Rights Advancement and Protection Alternative (WRAPA).

At the end of the event, all the speakers proffered ways in which love and tolerance could be used to ensure peaceful coexistence in the country. Part of which is respecting the choices of others and not to consider ourselves superior to others.

Corps Members Mourn Slain Colleague, Protest Alleged Government Insensitivity Emmanuel Addeh inYenagoa The body of Mr. James Onuh, a member of the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC), who was shot by suspected armed robbers in Yenagoa, Bayelsa State, last week, has been taken to his hometown in Benue State for burial.

However, many of the corps members who thronged the Federal

Medical Centre mortuary in the state capital, during the event, decried the absence of government officials during the evacuation of Onuh’s body.

But the representatives of the police and the state Coordinator, NYSC, Mr. Anthony Ekeocha and his team attended the brief ceremony, where they appealed to the corps members to be security conscious.

The grieving corps members however, were said to have staged a protest against the attitude of the state government which they said did not show concern throughout the period.

Onuh was killed on June 2 by gunmen who attacked and robbed him of his mobile handset and cash at Obele, a suburb of Yenagoa, the capital city.

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Police Thwart Kidnap Attempt on Expatriates in Bayelsa Emmanuel Addeh in Yenagoa The police in Bayelsa yesterday disclosed that men of the state command had aborted an attempt by suspected hoodlums to forcibly seize mostly foreigners living at the Expatriates Quarters, reportedly owned by the state government, at Onopa area of the state.

The area, occupied mostly by expatriate oil workers in the state, was reportedly targeted by the suspected criminals because of the high net worth of the foreign residents which would have yielded large ransoms if the kidnap attempt was not successfully repelled by the security operatives.

Though the police did not indicate the nationality of the expatriates and the particular area that was attacked, THISDAY checks revealed that those who were targeted were mostly Chinese who were being accommodated at the Castle Hotel, located near the state Government House.

It was gathered that the Castle, an edifice, which was formerly designed to accommodate government guests by the former administration, was converted into a hotel by Governor Seriake Dickson’s government as part of its plans to promote tourism in the state.

The kidnappers reportedly gained access to the building through the River Nun channel at the back of the Government House, but it was learnt that one of the expatriates skilled in martial arts, disarmed a member of the gang.

A source noted that the expatriate hid in a corner of the building to hit one of the gunmen who cried out in pains and forced other members of the gang to start sporadic gunshots.

It added that gunshots attracted police operatives who raced to the scene and engaged the kidnappers in a gun battle, before they fled the scene without their weapons.

Members of the criminal gang who reportedly stormed the area in several speedboats, got to the quarters at about 11.50 in the night,

before successfully scaling the fence leading to the area.

The police did not indicate whether there were any injuries, but a statement by Mr. Asinim Butswat, a Deputy Superintendent of police, indicated that the hoodlums retreated during an exchange of gunfire with the security operatives on guard duty.

Butswat, the Police Public Relations Officer in the state, noted that men of the command were currently on the trail of the hoodlums, with a view to apprehending them.

Last month, some unknown gunmen killed two soldiers in the state who were providing security for the construction firm, Setraco Nigeria, and abducted an expatriate after a shootout ensued.

The soldiers who lost their lives during the operation were providing security cover for the expatriates who were working on a road construction site. One of the foreigners, Ramzi Bau Hadir, aged 53 years, was taken away.

Wike Urges Movie Practitioners to Promote Rivers as Nigeria’s Investors’ Destination Ernest Chinwo in Port Harcourt Rivers State Governor, Nyesom Wike, has called on African movie actors, producers, creative writers and directors to serve as promoters of the state as the investors destination of Africa with attendant economic benefits.

Declaring open the 12th Africa Movie Academy Awards (AMAA) in Port Harcourt at the weekend, Wike expressed happiness that the array of mega-stars, federal government officials, international journalists and businessmen have seen first hand that Rivers State is safe for investments, contrary to sponsored media reports.

He said: “We have tackled insecurity with decisive steps in conjunction with the nation’s security agencies, so much so that Rivers State has now become one of the safest places to visit, live and do business in the country. As a result, we have been hosting several local and national events to the

joy and applaud of the organisers, participants and visitors.

“For instance, three weeks ago, we successfully hosted the National Convention of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) Nigeria’s current leading opposition party with delegates from the 36 states and other local and international observers. Today, we are hosting AMAA. In the next couple of weeks we shall be hosting the national conferences of the Magistrates Association of Nigeria and the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA). We have received several delegations from foreign missions in Nigeria and international organizations at bilateral and multilateral levels.

“All these show that our efforts to improve local security are yielding the desired results as Rivers State has, once again, resumed its position as a destination of choice to both local and foreign direct investment. Let me assure you that we are determined to leverage on this in our effort to place Rivers State on the tourism world.”

The governor added: “As a

government therefore, it is our pleasure to be the host of this year’s AMAA presentations. Apart from its intrinsic value, the event has rekindled important social and economic benefits to the State.

Accordingly, we are utilising this opportunity as a platform to showcase the business and tourism potentialities of the State to the world. We invite AMAA and our visitors to tell the story of Rivers State to the investing public at local and international levels.”

The governor outlined the profits available to the would-be investors.

He said: “For the visitors, it is important to acknowledge that Rivers State occupies a strategic place in the economy of Nigeria.

Without doubt, it is the epicenter of the hydrocarbon industry and the nation’s second largest economic unit. Port Harcourt remains a leading commercial enclave and one of the fastest growing cities in Africa.”

Wike described AMAA as Africa’s most prestigious award.

Ondo: Police Parade Suspected Abductor of Reverend Sisters, Others James Sowole in Akure The Ondo State Command of the Nigeria Police at the weekend paraded some suspected criminals including one Philip Isiga alleged to be one of the abductors of two reverend sisters, Perpetual Apo and Roseline Familade and their driver, Mr. Zwugwa Zibai.

The two sisters and their driver were abducted on May 15, 2016 on the Benin-Ijebu Ode Expressway at Kajola village in Odigbo Local Government Area of Ondo State but were released a week after.

Parading Isiga along with some other suspects at the headquarters of the command in Akure, the state Commissioner of Police, Mrs. Hilda Harrison, explained that Isiga was involved in the abduction of the sisters.

“I want to state that Ondo State has zero tolerance for hoodlums

and we will ensure that the state is free from all forms of criminalities.

I therefore enjoin our people to always inform the police whenever they see any crime committed around them,” she said.

Isiga in an interview said he was given a sum of N50,000 from the money realised from the abduction of the sisters and their drive The 25-year-old suspect from Delta State said he was introduced to the business of kidnapping by one Ufoma, who was said to have been arrested too but currently receiving treatment at an undisclosed hospital in the state.

Ufoma was also alleged to be the leader of the kidnapping syndicate in the area, and was also said to have participated in all the abduction that had occurred in the local government area.

Isiga said: “When my pure water business was not moving

well again, Ufoma came to me and advised me to join him in his business, I didn’t know it was a kidnapping work. I stayed in the bush when they abducted the sisters “Later, Ufoma told me he collected N200,000 from the family of the victims and he gave me N50,000 out of it as my own share.”

On how and where they kept their victims after the abduction, the suspect who lived at Idepe in Okitipupa Local Government Area of Ondo State, said he did not participate actively in the kidnapping, saying it was the leader, Ufoma who could answer that question.

To this end, the police commissioner said the command was already on the trail of other fleeing suspects, saying the one arrested would soon be charged to court.

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MONDAYSPORTS

Group Sports Editor Duro Ikhazuagbe Email duro.ikhazuagbe@thisdaylive.com

MORE TRIBUTES FOR KESHI, AMODU

Eagles Have Lost Father Figures, Says Yobo Wike, Dalung, Obiku express shock at death of Keshi, Amodu

Duro Ikhazuagbe Former Super Eagles Captain, Joseph Yobo, has described the death of both Stephen Keshi and Amodu Shaibu as big losses that will take a long time for the senior national team players to recover from.

The former Everton player who celebrated his retirement from football after 101 caps for Nigeria with a testimonial match in Port Harcourt a fortnight ago, told THISDAY that while Amodu was a father figure to the team, the players relationship with Keshi was beyond that of coach and player.

“While we are still struggling with how to come to term with the exit of the Big Boss, we woke up on Saturday morning with another terrible news of the death of Coach Amodu. This is too much of a tragedy to hit Nigeria’s football.

These men were some of the finest we have in the country,” sobbed Yobo.

The Ogoni-born ex-international recalled the pivotal role Amodu played to make his Centenary Game the huge success it turned out in the Garden City.

“I called Coach Amodu earlier in

Keshi the week to help me sort some pending matters concerning my testimonial. I was going to finalise the matter with him on Saturday when I got the sad news that he too, like Keshi, has died in Benin City,” the former Eagles defender stressed.

He prayed to God to grant eternal rest to the souls of the two top coaches.

Similarly, Rivers State Governor, Nyesom Ezenwo Wike has expressed shock at the sudden death of Shaibu.

According to a statement from the Special Assistant to the Rivers State governor

Shaibu on Electronic Media, Simeon Nwakaudu, Wike paid his condolences to the Nigerian football family, the immediate family of Shaibu and the NFF. He said the death of Shaibu further depletes the community of football tacticians available to the country.

Wike prayed God to grant Nigerians the fortitude to bear the irreparable losses.

He said the achievements of the former Super Eagles coaches will always remain evergreen in the memories of football loving Nigerians.

The Rivers State governor

called for prayers for the football community in view of the deaths of two senior tacticians in just one week.

Also yesterday, the Minister of Sports, Solomon Dalung, described the deaths of Keshi and Amodu as devastating.

“This is terrible and shocking.

On April 18, 2016, Shuaibu Amodu was in my office and we discussed many issues affecting Nigerian coaches and their welfare including ways of moving Nigeria’s football forward. He personally presented to me, a booklet he

had published which contained ways of improving the country’s football and its administration.

“We were already charting a course in this direction when the news of his sudden death came to me”.

The minister also noted that the sudden deaths of two Nigerian coaches within few days was sorrowful and called for prayers.

Another ex-international, Mike Obiku, said yesterday in Lagos that Keshi’s exemplary life should be inspiration to present generation and future

footballers.

“He gave the game his all.

As a coach, his achievements are worthy of emulations. We are going to miss him.”

Obiku who played for defunct NNPC Football Club of Warri the same time Keshi was captain of the New Nigerian Bank FC in Benin, recalled a game in which their path crossed and how the Illahborn central defender was instrumental to the many achievements of the two-time WAFU champions.

NNPC/Shell Cup: Two Top Players for Holland Two outstanding players of the 18th edition of the annual NNPC/ Shell Cup football competition organised for secondary schools in the 36 states and the Federal Capital Territory of the country will have the opportunity of visiting Feyenoord Rotterdam’s Football Academy for further training.

The Communication Manager of Shell Petroleum, Sola Abulu, who represented the General Manager of the company, Igo Weli, made this declaration during a media briefing ahead of the semi final of the competition in Lagos yesterday.

“We are happy to announce the introduction of a new reward for the two most outstanding players in the tournament,” Abulu said.

“The best two players in this year edition would be sponsored to

Feyenoord Football Academy for a short further practical sessions and exposure.“Scholarship rewards will also be given to some other outstanding students while the semi final players and their coaches will be rewarded with a total cash of N3.4m while their schools get a total of N4.8m in cash for the development of facilities and infrastructure in their respective schools.”

Former Nigerian international, Mike Obiku, who was a member of the visiting Feyenoord Academy team to the country applauded NNPC/Shell for their decision to send two students to the academy.

He said some of the things lacking in most players in the country are their level of intelligence which has to do more

NPFL: Wikki Stays Top as Rangers, Enyimba Stumble Wikki Tourists have remained top of the Nigeria Professional Football League (NPFL) after they held hosts Heartland to a goalless draw in Owerri yesterday, but title chasers Enugu Rangers and Enyimba lost ground with away losses.

MATCH DAY 22 Heartland 0-0 Wikki Plateau Utd 2-0 Rangers Rivers Utd 4-1 MFM Shooting 1-0 Enyimba Pillars 2-2 W’Wolves Ikorodu 1-1 Akwa Utd Sunshine 1-0 Lobi Nasarawa 4-2 IfeanyiUbah Elkanemi 2-0 Abia W’

The Bauchi club now have 38 points from 21 matches, same as Rivers United, who trounced MFM FC 4-1 in Port Harcourt.

Rangers and Enyimba slipped in the title race following losses on the road.

Rangers were beaten 2-0 at Plateau United and Enyimba were upset 1-0 at Shooting Stars.

In other results, Kano Pillars played out a 2-2 draw with Warri Wolves in Kano, Akwa held hosts Ikorodu United to a 1-1 draw, Sunshine Stars pipped Lobi Stars 1-0 and Nasarawa United defeated IfeanyiUbah 4-2.

Earlier on Saturday, Elkanemi defeated visiting Abia Warriors 2-0.

about coaching.

Meanwhile, the semi final games will take place on Tuesday at the Teslim Balogun Stadium, Lagos, with FOSLA Academy, Abuja taking on Asegun Comprehensive High School, Ibadan, in the first semi final by 2pm while the second semi final between Government Science Secondary School, Bauchi and Excel Education Centre, Port Harcourt, will come up by 4pm, same day.

The final will however come up onThursday,June 16 also at the Teslim Balogun Stadium, Lagos.

L-R: Coach, Feyenoord Academy, Holland, Mike Obiku; Communication Manager, SPDC, Sola Abulu; and Manager, International Relation, Feyenoord Academy, Gido Vader, at the media chat in Lagos…yesterday

LMC Seals International Official Sports Drink Deal Nigeria Professional Football League (NPFL) broke into the international sponsorship market with the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between the League Management Company (LMC) and United Kingdom’s leading global sport drinks maker, iPro Sport International Limited (ISIL), Isotonic drinks replace nutrients and fluids quickly, helping to prevent exercise-related injuries and illness that may arise from loss of important minerals, dehydration and heat stroke due to sweating during physical exercises. Isotonic fluids are also known to have six to eight per cent carbohydrates, including glucose, the human body’s preferred energy source for exercise The MoU, which is subject to sign off of national distributors agreements and other regulatory approvals was executed in

London on Wednesday, June 7 with the LMC represented by its Chairman, Shehu Dikko and iProsport represented by the Managing Director, Mr. Thomas Garrad.

The deal is said to be the biggest natural ingredients sports drink football sponsorship in the African continent and NPFL is the first league on the continent to be associated with iProsport all natural ingredients sports drink. The tenure of the MOU is for five years.

It is considered a major breakthrough and an international recognition and endorsement of the steady growth recorded by the LMC in the revival of the Nigeria Professional Football League, improved quality of administration, the quantum leap in followership around the arenas and the media.

Nigerian businesses have starved local football of patronage necessary to revive the game and allow it

reach its potentials of being a vibrant sub sector employing thousands of young Nigerians. Last year, it is estimated that over N40 billion was funneled out by Nigerian corporate organisations to sponsor foreign clubs and foreign league broadcasts.

Mr Dikko describes iProsports’

entry as “a strong message to businesses in Nigeria to embrace the ‘Buy Nigeria’ campaign. It can stimulate the economy and create more jobs through the football industry. It certainly will add impetus to bringing back the lost glory of our football”.

EURO 2016…

Germany, Croatia in Flying Starts World champions Germany began their quest for a record fourth European Championship yesterday by beating Ukraine 2-0 in their first game.

Despite a mercurial performance from Toni Kroos and an early headed goal from Shkodran Mustafi, they were troubled at the back at times.

Jerome Boateng cleared off the line superbly while Manuel Neuer made good saves before a late scare.

Yevhen Konoplyanka threatened for

Ukraine but they tired, with Bastian Schweinsteiger adding a late second.

The Manchester United midfielder came off the bench in stoppage time and two minutes later scored a sweet half-volley following a swift counter attack.

Earlier, Real Madrid midfielder Luka Modric scored a brilliant volley as Croatia defeated Turkey 1-0 in their Euro 2016 Group D opener yesterday.

Monday June 13, 2016

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MISSILE Saraki to FG

“We have failed to take the necessary steps in policy and legislations that would set us on the path to developing the kind of economy that we desire...The collapse in oil price has without doubt brought huge shock to our economy on a scale that perhaps, has never been experienced before. This requires us to develop creative strategies that would stimulate business and investments into other sectors.”

Senate President Bukola Saraki deploring the federal government for failing to adopt policies meant to draw a productive economic roadmap for the nation.

C.DONADINUBA GUEST COLUMNIST

Ndigbo: Soft Power As A Desideratum

J

oseph S. Nye, Bill Clinton’s assistant defence secretary who holds the preeminent position of the University Distinguished Service Professor at Harvard, is best remembered worldwide for coining the term, soft power. Soft power is a theoretical framework which refers to the phenomenon of a state or country attracting or co-opting other nations and peoples to do its wishes without the use of force or money.

The opposite is hard power, which President George W. Bush used enthusiastically in Iraq, earning him the reputation of a war monger.

Reckless use of hard power pushes American opponents to terrorism against the United States and its allies. Barak Obama, on the other hand, is a practitioner of soft power, which should not be confused with cowardice or pacifism.

When the opportunity came for the United States to get rid of Osama bin Laden, Obama took out the foremost terrorist in a rather entertaining manner. It added to America’s global appeal. Soft power is about wide-ranging and sustained charm offensive, it is about public diplomacy. Hence, the University of Manchester prides itself on producing more foreign prime ministers, presidents and heads of state than any other British institution.

A substantial number of Igbo political activists have yet to appreciate the value of soft power.

Two instances will do here. Governor Willie Obiano of Anambra State was out of the country when the scores of people were massacred at Nimbo in Uzo Uwani Local Government Area of neighbouring Enugu State on April 25. But he quickly returned home on hearing of this act of man’s inhumanity to man. He was to explain that he cut short his trip to ensure that the massacre did not get to Anambra State and that a possible reprisal attack would not occur in his state given the deep cultural and historical propinquity between the people of Ayamelum Local Government Area in his state and Uzo Uwani LGA in Enugu State who used to be in the same LGA until 1988. Satisfied that the situation was now under control, the governor advised Anambrarians not to molest any Fulani or Northerner in their midst and then called a meeting of Fulani herders who have been living in some 20 settlements around the state for decades and counselled them to remain peaceful and law abiding. He said that he was determined to make Anambra remain the safest state in the country, so that it can escalate its development level.

As the chief security officer of the state, Obiano must protect the life and asset of everyone in the state, whether an indigene or not. The recent steps he took went a long way to secure the lives and assets of millions of his own people even in Northern Nigeria, many of whom are eminently successful tycoons, professors, corporate executives and

Obiano professionals. But what he got in return was a sustained barrage of insults online from a handful of Igbo elements living in the United States. Presumably, the Igbo irredentists would have been satisfied if the governor had launched an anti-Fulani drive without minding the consequences for millions of Igbo people in the North who are vulnerable.

Obiano’s experience is by no means different from that of Enugu State governor Ifeanyi Ugwuanyi who was pilloried by the same American-based activists. Erstwhile World Bank vice president Oby Ezekwesili last year described these activists as Internet thugs when she came under their scurrilous criticism for demanding that the Goodluck Jonathan administration get serious with rescuing the Chibok girls kidnapped by Boko Haram terrorists in April, 2014. The Internet activists’ anger with Ugwuanyi stemmed from the governor’s visit to President Muhammadu Buhari in Abuja two days after the Uzo Uwani killings. They would have been pleased if Ugwuanyi, rather than consult the commanderin-chief of the armed forces to discuss a grave security development, had stayed at home to engage in incendiary rhetoric.

Paranoia, hysteria and hate language have become the defining elements in contemporary Igbo “nationalism” by a handful of political activists in the United States who are obviously out of touch but often hubristically claim superior information. The activists provide oxygen to the elements in the so-called Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) but also to extremists at home. As Ohaneze, the socioeconomic organisation of the Igbo, was about to hold an emergency meeting on the Uzo Uwani killings, a group of nameless people calling themselves “concerned members of Ime Obi of Ohaneze”, gave to online publications what it called the communiqué of Ohaneze on the massacre. Mark you, this was an unsigned communiqué given out even before the meeting was held, and these online publications ran it as the authentic communiqué, which was unprofessional and misleading. As could be

expected, the so-called communiqué written by some extremists without names has been serving as the Magna Carta of these American-based Igbo political activists. At the inauguration of the Association of Nigerian Authors in 1982, Chinua Achebe warned against the growing phenomenon of fanaticism in Nigeria, calling it a rabid beast. Achebe was a prognosticator, a seer.

The Igbo live outside their homeland more than any other group. Besides, they are what eminent Yale Law professor Amy Chua calls in World on Fire: How Exporting Free Market Democracy Breeds Ethnic hatred and Global Instability a market-dominant minority because their highly competitive culture enables them to do well in a free market economy. Therefore, they need soft power, and not hard power. It is actually soft power which has endeared the United States to the world, resulting in Pax Americana or the Americanisation of the world. Soft power has caught on around the world, with China officially adopting it in 2011, giving rise to its massive investments in African infrastructure and offering of credit facilities to African nations on far better terms than western nations. The soft power concept has had a revolutionary impact on management schools, leading to unprecedented interest in the idea of soft skills which emphasizes

that organisational leaders possess such competencies or behaviorial qualities as being a team player; personality traits like trust and effective good communication are now considered more important than academic brilliance. In an article for a major academic journal, I trace the origin of soft power to Niccolo Machiavelli who observes that it is good to have the power of a lion but dangerous to behave like a lion. As Wole Soyinka admonishes, a tiger does not need to proclaim its tigritude.

Thoughtful Igbo people can have a frank, honest conversation on the place of soft power in our affairs. As early as the 1960s, Peter Drucker, one of the greatest management gurus ever, declared that the world was entering a knowledge era. How prescient! Only last January, the World Economic Forum held its annual meeting in Davos, Switzerland, on the Fourth Industrial Revolution, which is about advanced knowledge and sophisticated skills. This is not an era when our vision can be defined by abrasive okada riders, bus conductors, motor park workers and other IPOB members as well as their rabble rousing supporters. We must return to the era of the Great Zik of Africa and engage in strategic thinking which brings forth rapid development.

• Adinuba is head of Discovery Public Affairs Consulting

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