Wednesday 6th July 2016

Liquidity Crisis May Trigger Fresh Capital Raising by Banks Skye Bank’s new CEO assures customers of safety of funds Obinna Chima The liquidity crisis identified in Skye Bank Plc, which led to the Central Bank of Nigeria’s (CBN) removal of its board

on Monday, is likely going to result in fresh capital raising by commercial banks, as they seek to maintain the stipulated capital ratios in the face of a weakening macroeconomic

environment.

While some banks had at their 2015 annual general meetings earlier this year, obtained the approval of their shareholders to raise

fresh capital, others may be compelled by the development at Skye Bank to seek for ways to beef up their capital bases.

Following the failure of Skye Bank to meet the minimum

thresholds in critical prudential and adequacy ratios, resulting in the bank’s permanent patronage of the CBN’s lending window, its huge non-performing loan (NPL)

profile, as well as its low liquidity ratio, the central bank in a proactive move effected a change in the board and Continued on page 6

Working to Live, Not Living to Work: New Global Research Throws out Conventions on Nigerian, Other Millennials in the Work Place... Page 9 Wednesday 6 July, 2016 Vol 21. No 7741. Price: N250

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US Warns of Possible Attack on Foreigners in Lagos ...

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N’Delta Militants Bomb More Facilities as Oil Reverses Gains

Ejiofor Alike in Lagos and Sylvester Idowu in Warri

For the second time in two days, the Niger Delta Avengers (NDA), the militant group responsible for the relentless attacks on oil

facilities in the Niger Delta, on Monday night breached two manifolds operated by the Nigerian Petroleum Development Company (NPDC), the exploration and production subsidiary of the Nigerian National Petroleum

Corporation (NNPC), at Batan community in Warri South West Local Government Area of Delta State.

The group, which blew up five oil facilities in the wee hours of Sunday morning, also bombed two more trunk lines

belonging to the NNPC in the area and oil well 10 operated

by Chevron at Mararaba community in Gbaramatu Kingdom.

The reign of destruction by the group is likely to impact oil prices which fell by four

per cent yesterday amid concerns of a global economic slowdown sparked by Britain’s exit from the European Union (EU) and data showing an increase in US crude stock.

Several security sources confirmed to THISDAY

yesterday that the bombings took place between 10 p.m. and 11.20 p.m. on Monday night without any resistance from the military.

He said the militants had a Continued on page 6

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Buhari Commends Nigerians for Making Sacrifices Tobi Soniyi in Abuja President Muhammadu Buhari has commended Nigerians for making sacrifices in the face of what he described as “temporary economic and social challenges”.

In his message to mark the Eid-el-Fitr celebrations nationwide, Buhari appealed to the rich to remember the millions of Nigerians suffering deprivation because of the violence perpetrated by terrorists.

He felicitated with all Nigerians especially the Muslim Ummah on the

occasion of this year’s Eidel-Fitr, marking the completion of the Ramadan fast.

He said: “I am not unaware of what Nigerians are going through and I want to use this medium to commend the amazing sacrifices of Nigerians in the face of the temporary economic and social challenges and also reassure Nigerians that my administration is working assiduously hard towards providing basic needs and other amenities.”

He also used the occasion to reaffirm his commitment to the fight against corruption.

Buhari said he would not

relent in the fight against corruption and would ensure that all appropriate and legal measures are deplored to root out the malaise.

He also commended the Armed Forces and security agencies for the gains recorded in the fight against terrorists and the rescue of hostages in the North-eastern part of the country.

He also appealed for the support, understanding and patience of all Nigerians and international partners, as the country explores the fastest means to end the economic sabotage in the Niger Delta

and amicably resolve the conflicts within the region.

He said: “I promise you all better days ahead even as we remain grateful for your unflinching support to our administration.”

Buhari congratulated Muslims in Nigeria and around the world on the successful completion of the fast, prayer and almsgiving in obedience to the Divine Command.

He prayed that the Almighty Allah would reward their sacrifices with increased blessings and a more prosperous future.

He expressed the hope that all true followers of Islam had been rejuvenated on the true meaning and essence of life and through the teachings of Prophet Muhammad.

He said: “We have learnt to imbibe the virtues of piety, sacrifice, love, self-denial and good conduct in our daily relationship with one another.

“As we celebrate another Eid-el-Fitr, I admonish all patriotic Nigerians to uphold these lessons and also appreciate the numerous material and human blessings God has endowed us with.

“Let us learn to show

gratitude, respect and tolerance to one other, irrespective of our religion, tribe, language and political leanings, as we forge ahead to build on our strengths and opportunities to make Nigeria great again.”

He said he was joined last Monday by Vice-President Yemi Osinbajo, the Speaker of the House of Representatives, Hon. Yakubu Dogara, and other government officials to host the Iftar reception at the State House with Nigerians of different backgrounds including internally displaced persons (IDPs), artisans and physically-challenged persons.

yesterday was down $1.84, or 3.7 per cent, at $48.26 a barrel, while the US crude, West Texas Intermediate (WTI) fell $1.89, or 3.9 per cent, to $47.10 a barrel, after dropping more than $2 at the session low.

Apart from the increasing stockpiles of US crude, oil production by the Organisation of Petroleum Exporting Countries (OPEC) had risen in June to its highest in recent history, as Nigeria’s oil industry partially recovered from militant attacks.

However, the main militant group - the Avengers - has resumed attacks on oil facilities, a few days before the expiration of the 30-day ceasefire militant groups in the oil-rich region had agreed with the Nigerian government.

But the impact of the renewed attacks is yet to be felt on exports.

Yet as Nigeria and Canada ramped up production the after earlier supply outages caused by militant attacks and wildfires, respectively, global supply rose significantly.

The biggest increase from OPEC in June of 150,000 bpd came from Nigeria, where output had fallen to its lowest in more than 20 years, following repairs to oil infrastructure and the absence of major attacks for about two weeks.

Supply from OPEC rose to 32.82 million barrels per day (bpd) in June, from a revised 32.57 million bpd in May. OPEC’s June output exceeded January’s 32.65

million bpd, when Indonesia’s return as an OPEC member boosted production and output from the other 12 members was the highest.

OPEC’s supply has surged since the cartel abandoned in 2014 its historic role of cutting supply to prop up prices.

Gulf producers, Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates had also increased supply by 50,000 bpd each.

Libyan output rose by 40,000 bpd after the reopening in late May of the Marsa al Hariga export terminal, the survey found. But supply from the country is still a fraction of the pre-conflict rate.

Among countries with declining supply, Iraq had pumped less for a second month.

N’DELTA MILITANTS BOMB MORE FACILITIES AS OIL REVERSES GAINS field day because of the scaleddown military operations in the kingdom, the area where ex-militant leader and fugitive of the law, Chief Government Ekpemupolo, alias Tompolo, hails from.

A highly placed security source disclosed that the attacks at Batan took place between 10.35 p.m. and 11.20 p.m. while that of Chevron occurred about the same time.

Claiming responsibility for the latest attacks later, the Avengers said it blew up the Chevron oil well 10 close to the Otunana flow station.

A terse statement signed by its spokesman, Mudoch Agbinibo, added that other attacks were carried out at 11.15 p.m.

“Niger Delta Avengers blew up the NPDC manifold close to Banta and two PPMC/NNPC crude oil trunk lines,” it said.

But as condemnations continued to trail last weekend’s bombings of five oil and gas installations by the militant group, after a lull in its nefarious activities, a foremost non-governmental organisation, Centre for Peace and Environmental Justice (CEPEJ), joined other Nigerians to condemn the dastardly acts, which have upended the gains recorded in recent weeks.

The position of CEPEJ was contained in a statement signed by its coordinator, Mr. Sheriff Mulade, saying that the continued bombings of oil and gas facilities was an ill-wind that would do the region no good.

He said, instead it would adversely affect the environment and slow down its economy.

The NGO reiterated its appeal to the Avengers to sheathe its swords and allow

peace to reign, adding that no development could take place in an environment wracked by conflict.

CEPEJ also appealed to the federal government to go ahead with the proposed peace talks, but cautioned against engaging directly with the militants in the peace parley, suggesting rather that critical stakeholders should be identified and engaged by the government.

“Otherwise government would create more room for other pseudo-groups to emerge.

If the government wants to truly resolve the issues, it should involve critical leaders and not political stakeholders; otherwise it will be another jamboree and failed attempt.

“The fundamental issues are clear: the people of the Niger Delta need development and remediation of their environment which has been devastated by years of oil and gas exploration and exploitative activities.

“The politicians are the beneficiaries of the system.

When they are fraternising with the militants, on the one hand, they want to end the militancy, on the other.

“That is why we said the government should not make it a political talk, rather Niger Delta stakeholders at the grassroots should be involved,” it counselled.

The group warned that the dialogue committee constituted by the federal government should not be seen as a diversionary ploy, explaining that weeks after President Muhammadu Buhari announced the composition of the committee, nothing concrete had happened.

However, before news of the attacks filtered into the

oil market, prices of the commodity fell about four per cent yesterday amid concerns over an economic slowdown sparked by Britain's exit from the EU and data showing an increase in US crude stock.

The impact of leaving the EU has hit Britain’s property market and driven the pound to a 31-year low, while weakness in trade and investment looms in China in the coming weeks.

Reuters quoted traders yesterday as citing another bearish factor data from market intelligence firm, Genscape, showing a build of 230,025 barrels at the Cushing, Oklahoma storage hub for US crude futures during the week to July 1.

The price of Brent crude

EDO PDP FLAGS OFF ITS CAMPAIGN

L-R: Gubernatorial candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in Edo State, Pastor Ize-Iyamu; Akwa Ibom State Governor, Mr. Udom Emmanuel; and the Akwa Ibom PDP Chairman, Mr. Obong Paul Ekpo, at the flag-off of the governorship campaign of the party in Benin City, Edo State… yesterday

LIQUIDITY CRISIS MAY TRIGGER FRESH CAPITAL RAISING BY BANKS management of the bank.

Speaking with THISDAY on the matter yesterday, the Chief Executive Officer, Financial Derivatives Limited, Mr. Bismarck Rewane, said the solution to the challenges facing Skye Bank was for it to raise additional capital.

“There is a difference between liquidity and solvency. The bank was supposedly under-capitalised, so that was a solvency issue.

So they would not have enough buffers to withstand shocks in times of stress.

“Therefore, the solution to their problem is to raise additional capital. To raise additional capital, the central bank, in its judgment felt that the board of the bank was not

credible enough to overcome the crisis of confidence.

“So it is believed that the crisis of confidence has been resolved because you now have a credible board, which would allow it to raise the capital that is required,” he said.

According to Rewane, Skye Bank’s problem started when it used its shareholders’ funds to buy Mainstreet Bank, saying that if not for the “ambitious acquisition, I don’t think Skye Bank would have been in the situation it found itself”.

“So the purchase of another bank without additional capital meant that you were carrying the assets of two banks, with shareholders’

funds of one. As such, the capital inadequacy became more apparent.

“Essentially, that aggressive growth strategy was what brought about this situation,” he explained.

He, however, pointed out that during economic downturns, banks’ asset quality suffer the most and central banks the world over do everything to assist them.

He expressed optimism that the CBN would continue to support banks so as not to create a crisis of confidence in the system.

The Head of Research at SCM Capital Limited (formerly Sterling Capital), Mr. Sewa Wusu, also said banks should consider rights

issues to raise additional capital so as to maintain the capital threshold.

“One of the ways to address the issues of low capital adequacy is to raise capital. What it means is that the new management has the responsibility of raising fresh capital and they should also ensure that they come up with a strategy to boost their loan recovery drive.

“Even though the economy is weak, they just have to fine-tune their strategy around recovery,” he said.

Meanwhile, the new Group Managing Director/CEO of Skye Bank, Mr. Tokunbo Abiru, has affirmed the CBN’s statement that the bank remains healthy and

strong.

Abiru, in a statement issued yesterday after taking over from his predecessor Mr. Timothy Oguntayo, said that the bank’s fundamentals remained strong and virile, assuring customers and other stakeholders of the safety of their funds and investments.

The new Skye Bank boss said his team would leverage on the bank’s reputable information technology platform to make it not just a frontline retail and commercial bank, but an industry leader.

Abiru, who outlined his vision for the bank, said his team would harness the expertise and skills set of the bank’s employees and

the reconstituted board to take the bank to newer and higher heights.

He noted that being a systematically important bank (SIB), Skye Bank occupies a sensitive role in the financial life of Nigeria and West Africa.

The CBN on Monday approved the reconstitution of the board of Skye Bank, with the appointment of Alhaji M.K. Ahmad and Abiru as the new chairman and managing director, respectively.

Other members of the reconstituted board are Bayo Sanni, Idris Yakubu, Markie Idowu and Abimbola Izu, all of whom were executive directors of the bank before the intervention by the CBN.

T H I S D AY WEDNESDAY JULY 6, 2016

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T H S D AY • WEDNESDAY JULY 6 2016

Army Launches Public Address System to De-indoctrinate Boko Haram Members

STARTERS

Two-Minute Briefing NEWS Working to Live, Not Living to Work: New Global Research Throws out Conventions on Nigerian, Other Millennials in the Work Place A survey from 16 countries has shown that millennial entrepreneurs fit into five distinct personas: Page 9

WEDNESDAY

JULY 6, 2016

NEWS

• T H I S D AY

Working to Liv e, Global Research Not Living to Work: New Th Nigerian, Other rows out Conventions on Millennials in the Work Place Email davids

A survey from that millennia 16 countries has shown l entrepreneurs distinct personas fit into five : •The study hire, engage gives insight into how and do business to ambitious young with these •61 per cent people will sacrifice stay true to profit to per cent in their values – rising South Africa to in Nigeria and 83 per 78 cent •66 per cent in South per cent in Nigeria say Africa and 71 work life comes before •Doing social good is especiall important in y and Nigeria South Africa (80 per cent) (80 per cent).

Young entrepren eurs are driven a desire for by in social good independence, a and a commitm belief employee happines ent to s. That’s to Sage’s Walk With Me reportaccording www.millennialb (https:// pdf/BTE003-Sageiz.me/static_uplo -Business-of-our-tiads/ Web-Res.pdf). characteristics, which examines the mekey of millennia attitudes and behaviou l entrepren world. eurs around rs the Despite sweeping generalis how this generatio ations about n behaves, shows that the study these business diverse traits leaders have workplace which align them with personality five types: •The Principle d Planners methodical – extremely in their approach they enjoy carefully to work, With an ambitiou planning for success. s streak, they take anything never ask a lot of at face value and always questions.

• The Driven and can’t bear Techies – love their work the thought twiddling their thumbs,of sitting around the power and efficiency they trust in technology to keep them of innovative of the competit one step ahead ion. They have belief in its a strong their existingability to accurately target and future Prince Nnamdi •The Instinctiv customers.

Ekeh, 24 (right), e Explorer founder of Yudala they love the unknown s – cavalier, online store When it comes exploring uncharte and son of Leo , as well to the work Stan Ekeh, typifies their gut instincts d territory. They as 66 per cent value life the Nigerian work over balance, Kriti Sharma, millennial A modern image and stick to their trust respondents in life. For guns.

Director, Brazil (71 is extremely to them, as Product per cent), Management, Mobile, importan Australia (70 per is leaving a Sage, explains, world, so policyma to be remembe legacy behindt per cent), Singapor cent), Belgium (70 “As a millennial entrepren kers and big would do red by. know first-hand e (73 Switzerland eur myself business •The Real I the young well to listen to the that this (70 per cent),per cent) and are shaking amount likely to say Worlders – resourceful, reducing African entrepren voices of things up. business group are inventing they rely on but retiring of hours they spend working the establish We’re rejecting eurs who order to succeed. technolo early is a key and making ed patterns of “Millennial our futures.”

When it comes gy in Some 66 approach to entrepreneurs per cent in focus for them. business technology work working and role to to their 71 have a huge for us. We see South Africa play per cent in they tend to work and making decisions through a new and are shaping in the start-up economy Nigeria say gut instinct alternate between going , before work. the modern and life comes to work hard, but want lens. We’re willing pace,” and taking a when and with flexibility explains Stephenworkplace at great 62 per approach. more methodicon whom we do in how, “But they Kelly, al entreprencent believe they’ll be “The opportun can’t business •The Thrill-Se be grouped Sage CEO. a serial economy, eur, starting . a homogen ity ekers – together as business in more than and always ous stereotyp triggered by to foster a new shows their one on the lookouteasily bored cent young e. challenge, they saying this lifetime– with 52 per has never been greater entrepreneurs, with that they fall into Our research is because distinct millennia couldn’t carefor the next lots of specific and camps appearances. the way ls choose hopes, fears, they have ideas they less about concerns and believe They work best around others the world. In Southwant to share with business world is set to operate in the ways of working. They generation of will be our and to become the normal,” says Africa, 82 per is overrated that making a social impact respondents aim next business new Anton . business; among to start more than cent twitter.com/Anton Van Heerden (https:// of the economy, and builders, the heroes More general understanding one _vHeerden), makes them include a desire trends from the study is an astonishi Nigerians, the number Managing Director, what EVP tick ng 94 per cent.

Sage South and good stead for now stands us all Southern Africa. to make a Doing social in the future. and of the difference.

“It is the entrepren good spirit That’s is people that makes the to young entrepren especially importan true difference all eurial with them, buythat want to do business t eurs and Nigeria over the create from them, (both 80 per in South Africa hire policy that to other countries cent) helps them them or . Respondentscompared to grow.”

Africa (30 per in South Tobi Soniyi in cent) say that cent) andTNigeria H I S D AY (46• per Abuja WEDNESDAY, reflects their the way their business JULY 6, 2016 Ramadan.

President gets them out personal success is what condemn Muhammadu Buhari said: Buhari has In Nigeria, 36of bed in the morning ed last Monday’s He urged nations . per cent say once again “The merchants of evil in Madinah, their own business shown that they have to remain vigilant, Saudi Arabia,suicide bombing religious there is nothing that we can collective to become started holiest city.

Islam’s second of their own in their masters ly beat the forces“so near the Prophet’smindless acts, by striking darkness on the A statement turn an idea destiny and 29 per cent of issued in Abuja Mosque. into reality.

The president prowl round the globe.” to Adviser African responde by the Special claim that terrorism really It validates the respected Among South said that terrorism to the President has nothing nts, 29 per Publicity, Mr. no longer internatio on Media and with Islam. Purveyor their own businesse cent s of terror are to do he called humanity nal boundaries even agents of the s to become started while condolingFemi Adesina, said Buhari, of their own simply excise as devil. masters with Saudi destiny, followed this vermin to rise as one body “The fact that money (21 per by to make the reprehensible attack, authorities over came the Madinah assert our liberty from our body polity, “to cent) and was said the into reality and from those (21 per cent).to turn an idea and a desecration of all that the incident struck nearsame day as a suicidebombing to base and holy, as it vicious instincts. who pander bomber was sacred the US According to ” Mosque, and took place near the Prophet’s also in Saudi Arabia,Consulate in Jeddah, him, with collective on one of the There terrorism shall shows that it orchestrated resolve, holy days was an isof be defeated. plan to foul need he Muslims to payn.”more Around celebratio up the Eid-el-Fit ’ attenti r let us be the world and around purification holy month of selfon to the plight the clock, alert. And we wise knownand self-denial otherandof theBuhari safe,” poorsaid. would remain free as Ramada ended. n has

EDITORIAL

Buhari Condole s with

The Lessons from ramadan The Muslims’ holy month of selfT purification and self-denial otherwise known as Ramadan has just ended.While it lasted, the season of fasting and prayer offered all Muslims the opportunity to reflect on their relationship with Allah. “ Page 15

Saudi Authoriti es over

Addressing the Senate, Presidency Crisis There comes a time in the life of a nation when it takes the auspiciousness of statesmen to rise to the occasion of salvaging the drift in her national life.Though there is no specific point at which this becomes imperative, the true test of statesmanship is the ability to stand up for one’s country when the chips are down. Page 18

FEATURES Giving Hope to the Disabled The Ch ef of Army Staff (COAS) Lt-Gen Tukur Burata has aunched the N ger an Army pub c address system a med at de- ndoctr nat ng and d ssuad ng Boko Haram nsurgents from cont nu ng on the path of terror sm Burata who was n Ma dugur yesterday the operat ona headquarters of the counternsurgency operat ons aga nst the terror group to comm ss on the Operat on Laf ya Do e pub c address system and over a dozen off ce and hous ng pro ects at the Ma ma ar cantonment d sc osed that the new pub c address system was be ng ntroduced n ne w th the N ger an Army nformat on po cy on f ght ng the Boko Haram nsurgency and terror sm n the North-east

to educate the peop e on what the m tary s do ng to br ng an end to the nsurgency “Th s cou d a so be part of the de- ndoctr nat on programme so as to target nd v dua s who may want to cont nue w th th s unfortunate nsurgency and terror sm ” he sa d Wh e speak ng on the p ans put n p ace to d ssuade nsurgents from terror sm he added “We w be ab e to d ssuade them n th s manner Some of them may even come w th the ntent on of attack ng the peop e But when we appea to them n those p aces they may dec de to drop whatever they are carry ng “That s the essence of commun cat on We want to reach everybody so that we get the message across to the r ght peop e so that they can come back to the r senses and be part of r ght-th nk ng soc ety ”

Nigerian Student Stabbed to Death in London A N ger an student Fo a Oreb y was reported y stabbed to death on Sunday n Nott ng H London by a gang of youths Accord ng to the UK-based Even ng Standard Oreb y was stabbed n a street c ash c ose to Westbourne Grove ust yards from the Portobe o Arts C ub The 17-year-o d was reported y nvo ved n a fight on a nearby estate w th a gang of youths who chased h m nto the busy road where he was attacked Po ce and paramed cs tr ed to resusc tate h m for a ong t me but to no ava He co apsed and b ed to death The deceased s ne ghbor Osman Saha to d the po ce “He was a n ce boy and very cons derate none of us can understand how th s cou d have happened “As far as I knew he was never n troub e I suppose we must now wa t for the po ce to nvest gate ” Oreb y who comp eted h s Genera Cert ficate of Secondary Educat on (GCSE) at Ho and Park n London

Oreb y was study ng for h s A eve s at the Che sea Academy before h s death After the nc dent a yet-to-be dent fied 15-year-o d boy was arrested by the London po ce n connect on w th the death An anonymous teenager was quoted to have to d the po ce “I know what happened he was protect ng a fr end over a s y beef wh ch turned v o ent ” A teenager who a so p eaded

anonym ty sa d Oreb y was stabbed n the neck n front of shocked passersby and tour sts An eyew tness Mark Gett eson sa d “Peop e saw h m fa down and try to get to h s feet aga n Po ce and paramed cs tr ed to resusc tate h m for a ong t me they d d everyth ng they cou d “It s abso ute y trag c another young man has d ed on our streets ” Gett eson added Another w tness a mother of one sa d she stood by and watched as the po ce tr ed to save the b eed ng boy She added that the ambu ance wasted t me n arr v ng the scene She sa d “It was traumat s ng It took ha f an hour for the ambu ance to arr ve even though there are hosp ta s a around I spoke to the person who ca ed the po ce and he sa d t took them so ong to get here “The po ce were a on h m try ng to resusc tate A I cou d see were h s feet and ots of b ood I m a mum for me th s s so sad that s someone s ch d That s someone s baby ”

situation in the By paying country. was amply attention to the plight demonstrated of we invariabl in the coursethe poor, as of Ramada important y place the welfare of n, as our of our wealth ours. By allowing others neighbour as to partake the One who or material possessio This happens gave us the wealth ns, we honour in a virtue hardlyto be at the heart of the first place. all religions imbibed by That must many in Nigeria but change. today.

Since the of Islam, wasRamadan fast, like the and material aimed at promoting other four pillars both the spiritual that man is well being of man, it invariably stands to reason God than better off doing merely pleasing the will of able to rein himself. in the impulse When he is greedy accumul for self-grat ation of wealth, ification to make his man is more and for himself society a better place liable to but also for was one of his neighbou live in, not only the most enduring r. That for which we us lessons of hope many Ramadan would have imbibed. t is notewor thy that fasting is advocate as a spiritual d exercise notion that by all religions ostensib the man who ly with the in the bid can make sacrifices person both to tame his desires would one expert for himself and the larger be a better puts it, besides society. and drink, fasting helps abstention from foodAs at the provocat the faithful “from looking ive, from hearing and from uttering the obscene. the mischievous, from thinking about inflicting ..to avoid slander All said, the injury to others”. and nation’s otherwise, have much leaders, political and Ramadan. to take from If tendencies they can curtail their the lessons of and of the people, pay more attention materialistic to the yearning much happier the country will certainly s place for everyone become a our leaders . We to imbibe To our numerou the lessons of therefore urge s Muslim readersRamadan.

Mubarak.

May Allah we say, Eid reward your sacrifice.

I

Letters in response to specific readers may publications TO opinions on send such letters along in THISDAY OUR READERS topical local, should 1000 words). national and with their contact details be brief (150-200 They should internatio words) and to opinion@ be sent to opinion@nal issues provided straight to thisdayliv the point. Interested thisdaylive.com they are well-writt e.com. We also welcome en and should along with the comments also not be longer email address and and phone numbers than (950of the writer.

Youth obey the clarion call. Let us Under the lift our nation sun ness, Nigeria or in the rain. With dedication high. is either closed and selflessService Corps ours, Nigeria we serve”. business or of the nation’s This National downsize due 20 years after (NYSC) anthem still is economy.

Youth to insecurity fresh in my completing Whether the and general anthem which memory, my service state to the every or not, facilities large turnout of fresh committed to in the process graduate is spiritually nation. It is an graduates for orientation population The NYSC and physically are sometimes are overwhelming this scheme, a onceof service to the nation. inadequate insecurity have scheme caters for each young graduate in a lifetime for the deaths. There equally exposed many year. Political and religious 24 to promote yearns for, was establishedexperience which every have been corps members on May 22, rescue team various states unity and develop ethnic instances where to needless 1973 by decree to of the federation. ties among crisis. To this bring back their indigenes some states had to associated youth in their with the programme The thrills, frills send end, many during political to states on it, make it parents have , most especially and funfair usually or religious enjoyable and red alert. resisted posting the orientation parts of the inspiring for To say the of their wards country. scheme needs participatin saying the g graduates part of There have an overhaul obvious. Like from all been divergent or speedy review is fast declining graduates. most of our interests for is like While some national projects, the scheme see that the scheme in value and usefulness. culture and among young the scheme tradition outsideit as avenue to explore It is no longer young graduatesis broke with funds recreate, catch other people’s theirs, others shocking barely fun presented see sufficient and it as opportunity make some facilities, essential desperation for national to savings for of to youth service. cater for the for the up future use. deficient in wonders what some young graduates In fact some orientation keep of corps members, Food/structural concerning where some is actually in it for them.

NYSC makes the Against the are grossly camps. generate fake one There have corps membersglorious past of secured their age just call-up letters been instances to be primary now struggle while some ate attempt However, away enlisted for the scheme. others falsify with the problem places of assignment to from the , of rejection. presently the use personal secure the few available influence suc programme glorious and storied ‘juicy’ placements, In desperpast deviated from is searching many now for relevance. of the scheme, is now almost the original purpose It has actually and the country. of little or no relevance intention it meant to serve. It Of to the economic protected, as late, the interests of aspirations corps members it was in the of enterprises that used to past. Many public/priv are not adequately patronise the ate businesses services of corps members have

POLITICS

He sa d “Th s pub c address system s be ng ntroduced and s n ne w th our nformat on po cy wh ch s part of the nformat on operat on that we have been embark ng upon ” He noted that prev ous y the m tary had used eaf ets and other means to d ssem nate nformat on to d scourage nd v dua s espec a y the terror sts from carry ng out atroc t es He sa d “We have Peace FM wh ch s operat ng very we and I th nk we are go ng mob e Th s s a very good n t at ve by the theatre commander and h s off cers Th s w he p to further ensure that the r ght nformat on s passed to the pub c ” He asked the theatre commander and other operators of the pub c address system to go to a pub c p aces ke motor parks and markets

15

S FROM R AMADAN

Letters to the Editor

M chae O ugbode n Ma dugur

Bombings

EDITORIAL

THE LESSON

While just of fasting and it lasted, the season Muslims the prayer offered all opportunity on their relations to reflect It also enabled hip with Allah. to share food those with with the poor, means privileged.

For all Muslims the needy and the rededicate less , it was an themselves and the cause to the teaching opportunity to it was a periodof mankind as a whole. s of the faith of deep reflection Altogeth relationship on the inter- er, between man the one hand, and his neighbou as well as man other. and his God, r, on on the Even though the month-lo and gone, ng fasting its has come five pillars lessons must endure. of significance. Islam, Ramadan has As one of the a highly spiritual To devotees emptying without which, it was a period of selfhave a truly rewarding no spiritual being can relationship IF OUR LEADER with his maker. That or her CAN CURTAIL S explains THEIR why the exercise MATERIALISTIC was marked in TENDENCIES Nigeria AND (as elsewher PAY MORE ATTENT e in the world) by private THE YEARNI ION TO and group PEOPLE, THENGS OF THE prayers, and abstinen WILL CERTAINCOUNTRY ce from LY BECOME all forms A MUCH HAPPIE of worldly R PLACE comforts and pleasures. The aim was growth and to enhance foster spiritual As the Muslimscharity and brotherly love. therefore mark this annual spiritual exercise, the end outcome will it is hoped of that the Clearly, there be of immense benefit to the nation. sharing with has never been a greater need for exists today the less privileged and the needy make ends when millions of Nigerian than meet due to the prevailin s can hardly g economi c

Burata

9

News Editor Davidson Iriekpe on.iriekpen@ n thisdaylive.c om, 08111813081

18

MIDWEEKPOL ITICS

T H I S D AY • WEDNESDAY,JULY

THE NEW SMA

Addressing the Senate,

Presidency Cr isis

An inclusive leadership is all it takes to and the presid contain the curre ency, writes Adam nt crisis of confi s Abonu here comes a dence time

T

6, 2016

Group Politic s Editor Olawa le Olaleye Email wale.o laleye@thisda ylive.com 0811675981 9 SMS ONLY

KER

between the Senat e

in the life of nation when it a takes ness of statesmen the auspiciousto rise to the occasion of salvaging the drift in her national life. specific point Though there is no With the Nigeri at which this imperative, the becomes of state embat an ship ability to stand true test of statesmanship is chips are down.up for one’s country when the several plaguetled by the With the Nigerian the wantonnesss from ship of state from several embattled fronts, from the wantonne avarice of the avarice of the and ss and not-so-distant National Assembly past – with distant past not-sothe of Nigeria, of governme – with nt riddled with a strategic arm crises arising Nation many leadership al Assem the from by the actions a flagrant breach of confidence Nigeria, a strategbly of of a few individua executive perceived ls and an ic arm of through government government on a vindictive its actions as a couldn’t be mission – there many leader riddled with a more auspicious patriotic interventio occasion for arising from ship crisis n from concerned This is where parties. a flagrant the recent crisis the upper legislative breach of confid that chambers of the has engulfed into view. This ence by the Senate comes actions of a taking a seriousis one crisis with the potential few individuals of and an execut of Nigeria and toll on the democratic evolution of the opinion a cross-section of Nigerians through its ive perceived that are resolution should every avenue to an amicable action s as a be exploited government involved. by the parties on a vindictive “We have too mission – there Buhari and Saraki not to afford many problems in Nigeria at the praying another today sacrosanct a more auspic couldn’t be ground during perspective should political crisis and last year’s eid-fitri every be considered for patriotic ious occasion the developme celebration...the in seeing nt need for a synergy not degenerat at the National Assembly that recalcitrance of their is from concer intervention e into a full blown crisis. does the utter bewilderm “rebellious” colleagues “The executive ned parties to the embattled should let the Various attempts ent of political observers. their affairs legislature conduct senate president as that his ongoing on the grounds allow for a smooth to resolve the logjam and not be seena separate arm of governme and his estrangem trials at the CCT in the consensus lawmaking as one meddling nt even though arm of governmen futile includingprocess was made by Senator ent with the APC is a fallout of Adamu deploy view that Senator t. Meanwhile with another extended mainstream led leaders of the his tact and influenceAbdullahi Bola Tinubu, , it behooves to the embattled an olive branch Lagos peace senate to also a the former to the chambers to return State. Another senate president governor of with decorum conduct themselves by allowing a list again. view in the Senator Adamu, of party members Senator the remaining not be seen as as expected of them and presently to fill public Saraki should account for public is that of the Senate principal should Majority an institution his deeds as a servant if does, who breach Committee on the Chairman that seeks to Leader, Deputy posts of the Senate Rural Developm protect and Agriculture “Where was found wanting in any Leader, elected to make. the very laws they Deputy and were his “political Chief Whip in the Chief Whip Senator Saraki the CCT all these whilecapacity. of the strategic ent and a prominent member If any of the drama would Senate Judiciary aftermath of when became senator coup”. necessarily step actors in the as governor and Human after serving Rights Committee is viewed Saraki declined the coming debacle, of Kwara State? aside an accomplis to read a across board CCT Why should that would be to avert leadership ing,” Mamman as the per excellencehed democrat and to this regard letter from the party this suddenly wake up to its encouraga lawmaker responsibility issue now?” ahead and instead, THISDAY in Adeka, a legal practitione . Apart on respect the senator went Lafia, Nasarawa r told to the to fill the positions with “We should and reverence from basking in the senators loyal An attempt rebellion. be careful not asked. of his colleagues former governor at placing the State. measures to prevail to allow During the pitted the lawmaker , the of Nasarawa crisis that has heat in our present draconian a “Bridge State is seen The CCT trial s against Melaye, an APC of the controversies, Builder” dispensation. proper perspectiv of Senator Dino in troubled times. with the capacity to as senator from es, the public executive in an arrowhead the needless Kogi State and the high-handedness Saraki is indicative of lead perception of wrangles and of the executive “For us in the “Like of was reported President a suggestion of the senators, by a national Minds” senators dubious Buhari and if they succeed led by major rallyingthe senate, Senator Adamu for one cannot influence with who commands considerab point especially intentions, a is a in their acrimony allow anybody daily as saying, “We dangerous precedent le dictate to would have in whatever and his influence in these times of across political a penchant for building bridges been us guise what set. divides and to cuts across political “The executive We were elected we should do in the this is what colleagues in divides to step in and unify senate. should the the moment. to the interest He command senate needs at the thrust of of the nation his to serve the interest serve Nigerians and not Assembly conduct its affairsallow the National s a lot of influence this form any of any political from this needless and save Nigerians in his party and as political godfather.

When the 8th intervention. the party party with the crisis,” a senior as of today in or a major Senate was inaugurate ” majority Senator Melaye’s editor with national 9, 2015, expectation the senate, he d on June occasion. could rise to view resonated The CCT trial daily told this correspond section of the as to the prospectss were high among Nigerians the of the senate ent. with a Nigerian public “A lot of us president continues of the new the majority but a wilder with dozens of senators senate under perception was that developments are not comfortable with of (APC) which the All Progressives Congress have been allowed the ruling party should to the trial venue though“escorting” their leader in the senate the has just acquired and regardless the number dwindled how anyone perceives a significantly recently.

The days preceding of national powers. legislature, where it say in the affairs of a the forgery charge our leaders, has a defining chairman, Danjuma The hard-stance of the While the need against the need for marked by permutati the inauguration CCT cannot majority. is Umar, notwithsta peace in to allow peace were hallowed be one trial that saw the leadership ons and innuendoe reign chambers was has the potential nding, this Nasarawaoveremphasised,” a PDP the senate s that emphasised by in the leadership of senator from of the new State to topple the preferring that Senator Saraki ruling party like Abdullahi Adamu senators last weekend. told THISDAY in Akwanga the Ahmed Lawan, new senate be led by Senator Sola Adeyeye (APC, (APC, Nasarawa West); seat of the Senate President. from the exalted While many Nigerians a veteran lawmaker Another recent others, a semblance Osun West) and a handful and George Akume see the recent ing of the of sanity prevailed. making a joke development that seems (Benue) as Senatefrom Yobe reawakenBut and Deputy to be principal forgery case against of the peace President Code it was peace of the Senate President the the in the decision officers two graveyard Senate most Then a rebellion of Conduct Tribunal of the Senate in that order. was , as the Federation by the Attorney-G as another ploy preferred a 14-count eneral of the to see them stand down from the majority led by a pack of senators charge for false (AGF) from their positions, the fact and Ekwerema to charge the duo of when he held assets declaration on Peoples Democrati APC in collusion Saraki criminal remains that a case du for criminal Saraki, Senate sway as governor with of c forgery Party one State forgery Standing if members under auspices of is a between 2003 of the be allowed established and the of Kwara Rules to pave “Senators of and the loose courts should the way for to determine Like Minds” saw the election as many senators 2011. All hell was let controversial election last this rather than which as politically year. An Abuja their prevailing sentiment of Senator Court saw President of the High s. motivated. “A the CCT charges broughthad earlier adjudicated the Senate and Bukola Saraki as the However, in on the matter deliberate ploy before it by Senator APC from the opposition what appears Ike Ekwerema by (APC, a respite for du of the leadership to tarnish the Suleiman Hunkuyi duo of Saraki and Ekwerema PDP, as his Kaduna) and most controvers Senate President,” public declared Court in du, a Federal the ial manner stirred deputy in a close according to image internal affair nest and murdered to Senator of the Senate” the matter “an Kolawole,Abuja presided over by Justice High a source jurisdictio the hornet’s last week, described and declined THISDAY had Saraki.

Gabriel n.

Since then, there the sleep of the Senate. reported a senator filed against the forgery The AGF’s action its presiding Senator Saraki’s has been no love lost between “The CCT trial of as saying: stirred the ire officers as “an case who through of PDP senators, of court process” and witch-hunt capablethe Senate President is the leadership leadership of the Senate their whip, a “decision taken abuse a clear Senator Emmanue public interest”. against short-changed of the ruling party, which and experience. We of truncating our democratic Bwacha, had resolved l in the senate to withdraw by Against this felt hand for the executive. cooperation conundrum saw this development. The ensuing have behind the Though the weekend said background, the Senate present confusion seen the the APC joint caucus are ready to at the up of more than the Senate Unity Forum and Labour it had been and of ensure we Party ruling. made vindicated 40 that of confidence (LP) passed The parliamen this as the entire albeit unsuccess of the 58 APC senators a vote spokesman on President t in a statement by the senate is being witch-hunt fails senate trying fully to reassert Buhari before dragged through proceeded on their party’s the choice of another needless crisis.” the the ruling , Senator Aliyu Sabi Abdullahiby its leadership but a recess last the senators further confirmed Public opinion , said this was met Thursday, appear to have General by the issue has that the been back to with a section been divided over the trenches. their Minister, of the Federation (AGF) Attorneyof the public THISDAY sampled and Justice Abubakar Malami, defending a cross-sectio and Ekwerema by in Nasarawa du for forgery, charging Saraki State and beyond n of opinions a personal was only acting with majority and his position partisan script and also abusing as the nation’s chief law officer.

FEATURES

G v ng Hop e o he D sa b ed

He probably never bargained for a life so challenged; neither was he born likewise. But by accident, Olugbenga Kuye lost his limbs to poliomyelitis, highly infectious disease caused by a virus at the age of three. It was a challenge he never prepared for... Page 20

H

BUSINESS DMO’s Plan to Raise N940bn from

Domestic Market Suffers Setback The devaluation of the naira following BUSINESSWOR LD the flexible exchange rate regime by the Central bank of Nigeria (CBN) and the plan to repay N560billion to bondholders will impede the Debt Management Office (DMO)’s plan to raise the N940 billion net domestic DMO’s Pla n to Raise N9 Domestic Ma n from rket Suffers40b borrow- ing requirements in the Setback 2016 budget... Page 23 WEDNESDAY,

JULY 6 2016,

• T H I S D AY

R A T E S

NIBOR OVERNIGHT 1-MONTH

4.4167% 10.8248%

FOR EFFECTIVE

A S

NIBOR

3-MONTH

6-MONTH

113.6206% 15.2903%

NITTY 1-MONTH 2-MONTH 3-MONTH

A T

J U L Y

7.7168% 7.9518% 9.7740

PRICING

1 ,

6-MONTH 9-MONTH 12-MONTH

2 0 1 6

EXCHANGE RATE N282.25/1US DOLLAR* *AS AT LAST FRIDAY

10.3013% 11.0742% 13.3762%

Quick Takes FirstBank Partne rs Asian In line

L-R: Managing Commerce andDirector, Economic Associates , Dr. Ayo Teriba; Oil and Gas Ltd,lndustry, Chief Mrs. Nike Akande; Executive Supply Manager, Oando Lagos…recentlyCapt Emmanuel lhenacho Plc, Mr. Cole Onitiri; Director, Access at the 2016 Second Bank Plc, Mr. President, Lagos Roosevelt Ogbonna Business Clinic Chamber of on Petroleum Product Pricing and Chairman, lntegrated and Forex Kiberalisat ion in abiodun ajala

CITYSTRINGS Reintegrating Prisoners into the

Group Busine ss Editor Chika 23 Amanze-Nwa Email chika.a chuku manzenwachu kwu@thisday live.com 08057161321, 08033294157

with its commitme Banker nt to the realisation and competitiv First Bank of e retail banking environme of a sustainable Nigeria Limited nt with the Asian recently went in West Africa, into a partnersh International Banker Magazine to host ip Banking Conventio the third West The event with Africa n 2016. the Retail Banking theme: “Building a Sustainabl Infrastructure e and Competitiv Over 100 senior for e executives and West Africa,” took place in technology, innovation, Lagos. supporting operations, strategy executives in retail, the event from and planning attended and payments West Africa and other regions’ retail industries.

The West Africa banking Internatio the third in the nal Retail Banking Dialogue 2016, panel contributiseries was a convergen ce of global ng policies and advisory of leading decision insights into the makers experienc In his address, in West Africa. es the Deputy Managing Limited, Mr. Gbenga Director, FirstBank Shobo said: “the of Nigeria evolving rapidly retail regulation and as a result of heightening banking business is competition, increased large numbers changing customer expectatio will continue of the unbanked population ns. In view of the to thinking and lead the discourse that will in West Africa, we innovation in bank products lead to new ways of help financial institutions in and services delivery whilst that will the region to achieve better He also stated improving their bottom-lin service retail banking that the effectiveness e.” of FirstBank strategy was ’s robust the retail space responsible for deposits at the with a sizeable market share its domination of end of 2015 financial of retail customer year.

Report Shows

Eromosele Abiodun New Procurement The World Bank’s new procureme effective on nt framework Systems July ECONO MY which became The devaluatio best use of their 1, 2016 is aimed at helping held N450billio countries make public spending. following the n of the naira n in Nigerian The new framework However, it the flexible exchange through appropriat has to repay Treasury Bills (NTBs) rate regime will also enhance procurement N560billion by N150billion and e the strategic in developme to bondhold bank of Nigeria the Central on the in state govern- ing the fiscal year mix dur“The new Procureme nt effectiven role of ers ment maturity of to make ess. bonds. sure that capital nt Framework the plan to repay (CBN) and ‘16s and expertise reflects the and meet the the Aug projects are “As for offshore N560billio funded. to bondhold the globe. The of a wide range of stakeholdviews, knowledge, ers will impeden lion net domestic N940bil- could see some buyers, we Nwankwo the Debt Managem borrowing interest from procurement Bank can now offer a more ers from across requirement system to help in the 2016 budget, investors with risk ent Office modern and the Nigerian stressed that (DMO)’s plan World promote sustainable which nimble appetite debt Bank Vice requires to raise the N940 who convert level was billion net domestic development, funds in the highly sustainable, Services, Hart President for Operation result of the fine-tuning as a lengthy ” noting naira s Policy and Country Schafer said that borrowrepatriation ing requireme The new procureme in a report.

Analysts believedevaluation. into buying process of the nation still had a nts in the 2016 lot idle potential, nt framework the increase budget, THISDAY orders. The better in supply, respond to the same administr will process has which the together with finding has revealed. needs of client allow the World Bank to reportedly rising robust procureme inflation point been harness ation is striving to countries, to yield widen- seen with equities.

The DMO on for effective projects. It providesnt standards throughou while preserving growth Monday is- ing, adding that the Pension is launching a newThe DMO of the t Bank-supp an expanded sued its provisiona economy. to Fund Administr enable orted five-year range a better fit for l issuance ators (PFAs) benchmark this month.

He disclosed calendar for varying country of procurement tools “With this modernisa will again Its other comparati third quarter offerings are that while contexts and to be prominen 2016 where tion of the procureme of buyers client needs. looks forward ve tax revenue t the ten-year the re-openings of Gross it plans to at the auctions. to raise between N305billio (Jan ‘26) and Domestic Product to strengthe to working together with nt system, the Bank “Data from National 20-year the n efficiency in its n ($1.08 billion) and Pension “said (Jan ’36) benchmarks, ratio of Nigeria is less (GDP) procurement public spending partner countries Commission N405billion than 7.0 systems analysts at per cent, (PenCom) ($1.43 March billion) over that public resources around the world. and to strengthen for the quarter. show their The Director FBN Quest. a ratio its peer group has This will help are being well holdings Analysis of of better General 18 of assure per the deliver cent.

DMO, Dr. Abraham the provisiona Federal Governme of used, and countries critical services He therefore issuance calendar l infrastructure, stressed the showed that of Nigeria (FGN) bonds nt had in a chat with Nwankwo need to ” Senior Director such as education, health, can the amount widen Deborah Wetzel N3.24trilli newsmen of the Governanc at recently and it generate more the tax net to said. said e Global Practice, Q3 marks a plans to raise in equivalen on ($11.45billion), revenue for pick-up from committed the DMO was governme the when it raised to making Q2 their assetst to 59.3 per cent of Chivita Wins nt. sure that Nigeria N265billion. under manageme “Nigeria’s Award raises money Chivita 100% (AUM). Additiona nt fund the to is 13 per debt to GDP ratio fruit juice from 2016 lly, they recently adjudged cent, compared the stable of from appropria budget deficit to Chi Limited the most outstandin te sources and country at the g juice brand was recent Continued Excellence awards Marketing Edge Brands in the on page 24 and Advertisin in Lagos.

Goddy Egene The fruit juice g CAPITA L MARK in the market, also won the award because Some investors ET packaging of creativity and value as well of its consistency (CBN) flexible the juice that foreign exchange return of 325 per cent rian stock marketin the Nige- policy Responding allows for the as the top quality between January made on behalf of have been best delivery. to the agricultur the market and June 2016. counting their Chi Limited, director, Mr. Deepanjan record to equity The rose from UDS recently e. beginning of gains since the per centa marginal gain of 3.2 Roy, expressed the company’s managing of the event became the the to close at N4.71 below N1.00 core gratitude to the for creating the bearish trend year despite of the in the first six months investor in the organisers an excellent outstanding brands year. $100 million Etranzact Plc per share. platform to for most past that persisted recognise fetched inves- Alape Staple Crop Processing consumers need. which have remained However, THISDAY tors a consistent in the year to Juneof first half of showed satisfying checks cent, return of about 97.3 per Zone (SCPZ) in Kogi Fruit Juice Brand “The award for Chivita 100% that the bear 30, 2016. The State to while adverse economic as the undisputaonly reaffirms Chivita 100% as the Outstanding notwithstanding, run recorded United Capital Plc replace Cargill, a United States fruit juice’s position based agro-indu ble leader in climate a gain characterised investors the fruit juice to put smiles of 89.3 per cent by declining in some of companie category in terms Chuka Mordi strial giant. oil prices, on the faces s had a investors bountiful harvest of UDS had rising of said: despite in the first declining capacity inflation, half of “It is a remarkab the ing environme the challeng- opportuni and uncertaint utilisation as high year, counting gains nt. A.G Leventis ty to develop le Nigeria Plc posted as over 100 ies around the devaluation per cent.

64.5 per cent agribusiness space in Nigeria Some of growth. the delay in the naira and at the investors, who invested Seplat Petroleum from a fully indigenou the Developm beginning of s perspective. We put the stock 2016 budget recorded the year recorded ent Company would accelerate Plc the progress market under significant positive a growth of the strong gains that are on the Kogi 62.5 per project grip State above inflation cent, while NEM Insurance in the first six of the bears rate, in the next few showing appreciated months. months. by 50 per cent.Plc We are ready to A late rally in on investmen positive returns Investors in ts. quickly to site.” move very of new Central June as a result Union For instance, Bank of Nigeria Dangote Flour Salt (UDS) Plc garneredDicon United Bank Mills Plc fetched for Africa Plc per 39.6 cent also as investors a put smiles on the faces consolidated the company its diversifica 36 tion CBN Governor, Continued on page 24 Godwin

Stock Mark et Investors

Count Gains Despite Bear Run

Society Recently, the National Open University CITYSTRING of Nigeria (NOUN) awarded an S inmate of the Ikoyi Prisons, Mr. Albert Reintegrating Pr iso ne rs into Ajogbor with a Bachelor of Arts the Society (BA) degree inTheology alongside a certificate of exemption from NationalYouth Service Corps (NYSC), to Moshood Oladipupo Filaremilekun who graduated last year. Page 36

“There is no need leave an impres to that any bank sion distressed. No is deposit is at risk” Emefiele

WEDNESDAY,

JULY 6, 2016

• T H I S D AY

Acting Featur es Editor: Charle s Ajunwa Email charle s.ajunwa@this daylive.com

In its quest to into the sociereintegrate incarcerated perso ns Nigeria recenty, National Open University of to inmates tly presented degree certif of Kirikiri Maxi icates Rebecca Ejifo mum Prison. ma writes

Ajogbor receiving his degree certificate Nebath Tanglang...r from the Director, ecently Learner

R

Support Services

NOUN, Professor

Folaremilek un

(3rd right) and ecently, the National Ajogbor (2nd Open University right), flanked of Nigeria (NOUN) by prison officialsi, Undoubte awarded an inmate of the at the award come back dly, that these inmates of certificates into the society Albert AjogborIkoyi Prisons, Mr. neighbour, may his Master’s to graduating with a Bachelor inmates of Degree one’s daughter’s to become one’s of Arts (BA) NOUN...rece family Although these at the same institution degree ntly alongside a certificate in Theology NOUNmember’s new friend. classmate or your sauce . benefactors need to help from National Adamu described of life while got as the of exemption in confineme this sweet a university make the journey expressed gratitude that provides only university in the to Moshood Youth Service Corps of producing nt, Ajogbor degree a little country and (NYSC), education to nation’s less daunting graduated lastOladipupo Filaremilekun NOUN officials,to the school authorities more achievable, inmates in and year. who ready prisons. This is its effort the who contribute supplied course the university over These inmates for the society to get them great achievement. the years d to his materials were honoured again and per cent of more enlightene tion of certificates “Truly, I'm short at the presentapayable fees for free and paid 50 d compatrio become better, I feel. of words in to inmates for inmates. who will go Maximum According ts of the country, Indeed, explaining at the Kirikiri Prisons by and to move the I see myself among heroes, how were paid for to him, the other 50 the NOUN accompanied Ajogbor who sin no more. per country authorities by philanthro those religious was given a forward of the greatest Tanglang, pic bodies suchcent and officials by other prison comptrolle Golden and non-gover countries in and make it one as both as rs inmates is called “Prison Pastor” Fleece by to thank nmental organisatio well as well security prisons. at maximum and minimum the world. I the prison officials of Ikoyi by want meaning Nigerians. ns a Second Class prison. He graduatedfellow and encourage for their support use this opportuni Their joy of “May ment, in ty with as my I Theology while to thank all my sponsors their generosity kun, who Master’s level furthering their education co-inmates as well inmates’ and contributiothe sponsors for to Resolutionholds a Peace Studies Folaremilewas the feelingis gradually coming He explained ." ns towards education, further: "The the in the atmospher real. This certificate certificate, received and Conflict tive centres, Therefore, seeing” the VC said. concluded presentatio prisons, as reformaan exemption from NYSC are their enthusiasm n of certificates e at the just and currently having provided living up to their mandates, reaching their students of to deserving towards peaks, he assured pursuing the National the enabling were on to upload led to them Nigeria in prison.

Open University them that plans furthering their environment that of the I-Learn platform,all their course materials Interestingly, education."

“I am sure that Folarinmil on which would a number of be download is the same are also incarcerate subsequently their peers who inmate, who ekan, called Olowo, ed in their d would like approached access. during the computers study one of to register to Truly, I'm short THISDAY for easy matriculation our students into they have no programmes but for the of words NOUN at the ceremony of new the Speaking to newsmen means of funding fact that in explaining Security Prisons to improve their Kirikiri Minimum Controller of at the occasion, their education last year.

Prisons in charge Indeed, I see how I feel.

Command, their dreams destinies they unable This inmate Timothy of to realise in life,” the pleaded to greatest challenges Tinuoye, said one Lagos both at state NOUN, Professor the governme Vice Chancello heroes, thosemyself among alongside and federal facing the inmates of the r of levels to grant nt institution was to It was on the Abdallah Adamu explained. move others, in the that of inadequat the country heel of this that almost 35 years who have been in prisonhim He appealed scholarships e facilitators he pledged forward and to to both the amnesty. for governmen . for 25 years state and the have decided all inmates studying at NOUN.full make it ts to assist the now. I have “I have been here NYSC to local one “I facility by sending my family to all inmates offer 100 per cent full scholarship members in Oyo State. tried. I need to see countries in of the greatest the some who are undertakin assist the inmatesand even full time teachers Please, help degree programm governme the world. g a NOUN want me tell in their quest to e,” he said.

Folarinmilekannt. Help me tell my governor," “We are in I for knowledge Ably represente to thank the dire need of pleaded then. . d by the people especially teachers for Director, Learner In addressing prison institution’s officials these at the secondary students of for their versity, the VC We Nebath Tanglang, Support Services, the foremost Professor and uni- just all know today that the school level. the degree is lauded the graduates. “Acquiring encouragem support modalities were the VC noted that to keep offenders prison is not a commenda already ent, all in custody, to reform serve as ble feat, which that the process being worked out sponsors as would society. and get them re-integrat but rather was as seamless to ensure well as my my for them.”a stepping stone to greater ed into the as possible. inmat heights coes “Now, we discover Although Adamu assumed the that some of VC recently, them post of the here without any form he of basic education.came feel that giving age of sponsorshexplained that due to shortip offers for We the best values them education will inmates and we can entrench be one of the an attempt in them to change their orientations in and

INTERNATIONAL Theresa May Wins Contest to Become Next Conservative Leader, UK’s PM Home SecretaryTheresa May has comfortably won the first round of the contest to become the next Conservative leader and UK prime minister. Page 38

SPORTS Mikel Confirmed for Rio Olympics

T H I S D AY •WEDNE

SDAY JULY

6, 2016

WEDNESDAY SPORTS Mikel Confirm ed for Rio Oly mpics

45

Group Sports Editor Duro Ikhazuagbe Email duro.ik hazuagbe@th isdaylive.com

Chelsea midfielder John Mikel Obi will feature at the Rio Olympics after initial fears he will not, according to Nigeria Olympic team coach Samson Siasia.

Page 45

Chelsea midfielder Obi will feature John Mikel remains my at the Rio Olympics after like my ownboy, I love him promises initial fears will not, according son, but they he Incidentally, made to me.” his internatio to Nigeria just disappointed that I am Olympic team the 20-year-old coach Samson his father couldn’t he and Iwobi first trained nal allegiance Siasia. from keep the Arsenal’s Under-23s before with Siasia’s debut England to make his Siasia himself for the Super Watford strikerAlex Iwobi, of the he changed had raised Eagles and fears over the tournament Odion Ighalo last year. after their Kelechi availabilit clubs the Chelsea Manchester Iheanacho of Rio2016blocked them as the midfielder as y of City opted of the over-aged one out is not football tournament players for the Olympics in on the FIFA calendar.

August.

But he has Mikel will now confirmed feature in Rio August. in “Mikel has availability,” confirmed his Siasia “We have some disclosed. other players who have promised to us and they join have shown commitment like Wilfred who has assured Ndidi, us that he will join us in America.

“Other players who will be available are Akpeyi and goalkeeper Daniel These are theKenneth Omeruo. confirmed for players who are This should benow.” some cheering news for Siasia, without several who will be players not released by their Siasia is howeverforeign clubs. that after Alex disappointed Iwobi and his father failed to they made keep the promises to him over Arsenal forward’s the participation at the Rio Olympics .

“Alex Iwobi I tried to call is not coming. wasn’t picking his father, but he my calls. He to call me frequently used when he wanted his country, but son to play for the his son for thenow that we need tournament, Olympics football he is not picking my calls,” lamented Siasia.

“But there is no problem, Alex Newly appointed Manchest er United Manager, said he is ready for the task of Jose rebuilding United, Mourinho, began his adventure at insisting: “I am Old Trafford where I want yesterday with to be.” (See Story so much confidenc on Page 47) e. The Portugues e coach

MOURINHO BEGIN S

Afelokhai, Ifeany i Matthew Lead NPFL All-Stars for La Liga Tests

UNITED JOUR NEY…

Rufai: Okocha Almost Lost His in Eagles Due to Excessive Dri Place bbling

Enyimba goalkeepe Theophilus Afelokhai, Kanor The Squad Pillars star midfielder Ifeanyi Matthew and Rangers forward Goalkeepers Chisom Egbuchul - Emeka am have Nwabulu (Wikki), Theophilu been named s squad to open on a 35-man Afelokhai (Enyimba), training camp Ikechukwu Kunle Adewale in Abuja Monday Ezenwa a series of matches ahead of IfeanyIUbah (Sunshine (FC team had to in Spain Okiemute Odah (Lobi Stars), Though Austin next month. appealing intervene by don’t Stars) Okocha Jay Jay limit to Okocha know the spirit A letter signed is today to entered his dribbling that talent Defenders: by the and adored cherished to appease into Chief Operating in other I hold on to me each time needed he possessed and for his Westerhof.

Officer of Etim (Rangers) Matthew dribbling the League to be protected Dodo Mayana urge to dribblethe ball. The we Management Nweke (Nasaraw, Ifeanyi his fans skills by many of and Company, gave him the fondly called as Rufai is difficult was always and admirers (LMC), Chima Akas,Chin a United), not needed by admires protection,” Salihu but Abubakar, directed to resist. So many know edu Udoji Eguavoen said. the end that those recalled a particular day at dribbling abilities Okocha, players to report the invited (Enyimba), Gabriel Wassa training when in all had of the day we almost cost him a if he had however said to accept the phase of campingfor the first (Niger Tornadoes), Austin died today chance to don coach asked the the Dutch that dribble fact that will Obaroakpo (Abia the players open on July he colours of was just part would have died do “one-torc Warriors) Jamiu 11 and end h” training.to of him,” Rufai recalled. accomplishing not the 18th. on AriwaAlimi (Pillars) Emmanue Eagles under the Super After several Speaking, Clemens a great l Westerho (Akwa United) The letter efforts vien, in the same objective of giving

by Okocha f. to adhere former national back to the society, This was revealed during the said the players Westerho to period will team Captain and Midfielders: by one resorted f’s instruction, which released to play be Coach, Austin culminated in the Ifeanyi Ifeanyi of Okocha’s teammat to dribbling he Eguavoen said launching Peter Rufai, es, in League and for their clubs (MFM), Dare Ojo (Enyimba he and the of the Jay Jay Okocha during the the former Eagles coachand other senior ), unveiling fixtures. The Federation Cup Dayo Ojo ( Sunshine players in the Foundation. infuriated and got team of Jay Jay Okocha Stars), second Obinna helped Nwobodo (Rangers), Foundation threatened “I came from phase of the camping and final to decamp yesterday Otun Fawaz Okocha whenin protecting backgrou a poor him. will on August in (Shooting Stars), Lagos.

“At that moment, 1 leading toopen Rabiu Ali, Charles newly to the he arrived changed nd but football According team’s departure the Ifeanyi I went Super Eagles. to meet with Henlong, my life and to “Coming on August Rufai, Okocha several times think I now Matthew I The squad was 8. fresh to asked and national have selected by Ibrahim Alhassan (Pillars), other senior he and some after him why he dribbled a poll of coaches team after the through football a voice he had players in the good outing to of the NPFL Tourists), Frederick (Wikki carried out to in the U-21a lot of children in the help a not to and been warned competit Obomate he said: “I streets return ion in Mauritiu the different pick players for (Rivers United) just we realised positions. s, former to school,” the The NPFL the kind of Bolton Forwards: Emeka player said. Wanderers’ while in SpainAll-Stars will Ogbuh season friendly play a pre- (Heartland), Sikiru Olatubosu with Valencia Stephen Odey (MFM), n, CF and also Chisom 2014 ITTF participate in Egbuchulam annual Carranza (Rangers), Ezekiel Aruna QuadriStar Player, continent the maintained .

Club TournameLaLiga World Bassey ( Enyimba), Shadrach his status Quadri as Africa’s they will play nt in which Oghali (Warri Wolves), best performa whose scintillating the world and the Egyptian Bashir player following the release also nce in his CF on Augustagainst Malaga Abdulrahman (Nasaraw of the July season in first Istresfailed to save his team, in the women.

United), Bata ranking a the prestigiou from dropping The list is 12 and 13.

Meanwhile, Mohammed world table tennis by the French Premier s (El made China relegation into Kanem held up rulin fou Lea bo to

ITTF Ranking:

Aruna Quadri Remains Afric a’s Best

Player

9

WEDNESDAY JULY 6, 2016 • T H I S D AY

NEWS

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

Working to Live, Not Living to Work: New Global Research Throws out Conventions on Nigerian, Other Millennials in the Work Place

A survey from 16 countries has shown that millennial entrepreneurs fit into five distinct personas: •The study gives insight into how to hire, engage and do business with these ambitious young people •61 per cent will sacrifice profit to stay true to their values – rising to 78 per cent in South Africa and 83 per cent in Nigeria •66 per cent in South Africa and 71 per cent in Nigeria say life comes before work •Doing social good is especially important in South Africa (80 per cent) and Nigeria (80 per cent).

Young entrepreneurs are driven by a desire for independence, a belief in social good and a commitment to employee happiness. That’s according to Sage’s Walk With Me report (https:// www.millennialbiz.me/static_uploads/ pdf/BTE003-Sage-Business-of-our-timeWeb-Res.pdf). which examines the key characteristics, attitudes and behaviours of millennial entrepreneurs around the world.

Despite sweeping generalisations about how this generation behaves, the study shows that these business leaders have diverse traits which align them with five workplace personality types: •The Principled Planners – extremely methodical in their approach to work, they enjoy carefully planning for success.

With an ambitious streak, they never take anything at face value and always ask a lot of questions.

• The Driven Techies – love their work and can’t bear the thought of sitting around twiddling their thumbs, they trust in the power and efficiency of innovative technology to keep them one step ahead of the competition. They have a strong belief in its ability to accurately target their existing and future customers.

•The Instinctive Explorers – cavalier, they love the unknown, as well as exploring uncharted territory. They trust their gut instincts and stick to their guns.

A modern image is extremely important to them, as is leaving a legacy behind to be remembered by.

•The Real Worlders – resourceful, but likely to say they rely on technology in order to succeed. When it comes to their approach to work and making decisions, they tend to alternate between going on gut instinct and taking a more methodical approach.

•The Thrill-Seekers – easily bored and always on the lookout for the next challenge, they couldn’t care less about appearances. They work best around others and believe that making a social impact is overrated.

More general trends from the study include a desire to make a difference.

Doing social good is especially important to young entrepreneurs in South Africa and Nigeria (both 80 per cent) compared to other countries. Respondents in South Africa (30 per cent) and Nigeria (46 per cent) say that the way their business reflects their personal success is what gets them out of bed in the morning.

In Nigeria, 36 per cent say they started their own business to become masters of their own destiny and 29 per cent to turn an idea into reality. Among South African respondents, 29 per cent started their own businesses to become masters of their own destiny, followed by to make money (21 per cent) and to turn an idea into reality (21 per cent).

Prince Nnamdi Ekeh, 24 (right), founder of Yudala online store and son of Leo Stan Ekeh, typifies the Nigerian millennial When it comes to the work life balance, 66 per cent value work over life. For respondents in Brazil (71 per cent), Australia (70 per cent), Belgium (70 per cent), Singapore (73 per cent) and Switzerland (70 per cent), reducing the amount of hours they spend working and retiring early is a key focus for them.

Some 66 per cent in South Africa and 71 per cent in Nigeria say life comes before work.

62 per cent believe they’ll be a serial entrepreneur, starting more than one business in their lifetime– with 52 per cent saying this is because they have lots of ideas they want to share with the world. In South Africa, 82 per cent respondents aim to start more than one business; among Nigerians, the number is an astonishing 94 per cent.

Kriti Sharma, Director, Product Management, Mobile, Sage, explains, “As a millennial entrepreneur myself I know first-hand that this business group are shaking things up. We’re rejecting established patterns of working and making technology work for us. We see business through a new lens. We’re willing to work hard, but want flexibility in how, when and with whom we do business.

“The opportunity to foster a new economy, triggered by young entrepreneurs, has never been greater and the way millennials choose to operate in the business world is set to become the new normal,” says Anton Van Heerden (https:// twitter.com/Anton_vHeerden), EVP and Managing Director, Sage South and Southern Africa. “It is the entrepreneurial spirit that makes the difference all over the

world, so policymakers and big business would do well to listen to the voices of the young African entrepreneurs who are inventing our futures.”

“Millennial entrepreneurs have a huge role to play in the start-up economy and are shaping the modern workplace at great pace,” explains Stephen Kelly, Sage CEO. “But they can’t be grouped together as a homogenous stereotype. Our research shows that they fall into distinct camps with specific hopes, fears, concerns and ways of working. They will be our next generation of business builders, the heroes of the economy, and understanding what makes them tick now stands us all in good stead for the future. That’s true of the people that want to do business with them, buy from them, hire them or create policy that helps them to grow.”

Buhari Condoles with Saudi Authorities over Bombings Tobi Soniyi in Abuja President Muhammadu Buhari has condemned last Monday’s suicide bombing in Madinah, Saudi Arabia, Islam’s second holiest city.

A statement issued in Abuja by the Special Adviser to the President on Media and Publicity, Mr. Femi Adesina, said Buhari, while condoling with Saudi authorities over the reprehensible attack, said the incident was a desecration of all that was sacred and holy, as it took place near the Prophet’s Mosque, and on one of the holy days of

Ramadan.

Buhari said: “The merchants of evil have once again shown that there is nothing religious in their mindless acts, by striking near the Prophet’s Mosque. It validates the claim that terrorism really has nothing to do with Islam. Purveyors of terror are simply agents of the devil.

“The fact that the Madinah bombing came the same day as a suicide bomber struck near the US Consulate in Jeddah, also in Saudi Arabia, shows that it was an orchestrated plan to foul up the Eid-el-Fitr celebration.”

He urged nations to remain vigilant, “so that we can collectively beat the forces of darkness on the prowl round the globe.”

The president said that terrorism no longer respected international boundaries even as he called humanity to rise as one body “to excise this vermin from our body polity, and assert our liberty from those who pander to base and vicious instincts.”

According to him, with collective resolve, terrorism shall be defeated.

Around the world and around the clock, let us be alert. And we would remain free and safe,” Buhari said.

WEDNESDAY JULY 6, 2016 • T H I S D AY

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NEWS

US Warns of Possible Attack on Foreigners in Lagos State police command assures residents of adequate security

The United States has warned of possible attacks on expatriates and foreigners in Nigeria’s commercial hub, Lagos, during the public holidays marking the Eid-el-Fitr celebration.

“The US Mission in Nigeria alerted that groups associated with terrorist activity might be planning attacks on hotels in Lagos frequented by international visitors, including those located on waterfronts, during the Eid-el-Fitr holidays,” it said yesterday.

Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday are public holidays in Nigeria and the traditional end of a month of fasting and prayer is marked by celebrations across the country.

The US warning, posted on its embassy’s website, according to AFP, is unusually specific but not the first about possible attacks on locations frequented by expatriates.

A similar security warning was given in December last year, while in May 2014, diplomats warned of a possible attack on two Sheraton hotels in Lagos, after a car bombing in the capital, Abuja, killed 19 just days before a major economic summit.

Similar warnings were given in April 2012 and November 2011 about hotels popular with Westerners in Abuja.

Lagos, a melting pot megacity of some 20 million

people, has been spared the worst excesses of violence by the Islamist group Boko Haram, whose seven-year insurgency has destroyed Nigeria’s northeast.

But the South-western coastal city has been hit before. On June 25, 2014, explosions ripped through the port area near a major fuel depot.

The authorities blamed the blast on a cooking gas cylinder which exploded but eyewitnesses and Western diplomats said it was a car bomb that killed at least four people. Boko Haram’s shadowy leader, Abubakar Shekau, later claimed responsibility.

The US embassy’s latest warning did not mention a specific group but urged its citizens to “review your personal security plans, remain aware of your surroundings, including local events, and monitor local news stations for updates.”

But the Lagos States Police Command yesterday assured the public that adequate and necessary security measures had been put in place during and after the Eid el-Fitr celebrations.

The command in a statement signed by its Public Relations Officer, Dolapo Badmos, assured Muslim faithful and the public of their safety.

She said the command had put in place appropriate operational strategies

Troops Ambush, Kill Boko Haram Spy in Borno Senator Iroegbu in Abuja The patrol team of 157 Task Force Battalion, 7 Brigade, on Monday ambushed and killed a Boko Haram terrorists spy at Barwati village, Kukawa Local Government Area of Borno State.

The Director of Army Public Relations (DAPR), Col. Sani Usman, in a statement yesterday, said the insurgent who was on reconnaissance mission to infiltrate the troops’ position, was killed

while trying to gain entry into military location.

Usman said the team recovered an AK-47 rifle, 59 rounds of 7.62mm (Special) ammunition, one 40mm x 46mm BGL2 grenade, a bandolier and three AK-47 rifle magazines from him.

He stated that the troops have intensified vigilance and high level of alertness as they continued with efforts of clearing the remnants of the Boko Haram terrorists in their Area of Responsibility.

FG Now Declares Wednesday and Thursday Public Holidays Following the directive by the President General of the Nigerian Supreme Council for Islamic Affairs, Alhaji Sa’ad Abubakar III, the Sultan of Sokoto, to the effect that the Ramadan fast continued yesterday as a result of the non-sighting of the moon, the federal government has declared Wednesday, July 6 and Thursday, July 7, 2016 as public holidays.

In making the declaration on behalf of the federal government, the Minister of Interior, Lt Gen.

Abdulrahman Bello Dambazau (rtd), urged Nigerians to use this period of sober reflections to ensure harmony, unity and peaceful co-existence, while giving full support to the administration of President Muhammadu Buhari in his sustained effort to pursue socio-economic and political growth of the nation.

The minister in the statement signed by the Permanent Secretary in the ministry, Bassey Okon Akpanyung, wished Nigerians a peaceful celebration.

to ensure a hitch-free Eid-el-Fitri celebrations at all praying grounds, recreational centres, hotels

and all other public places.

She however implored the public to cooperate with the Police as they

go about their lawful duties, adding that in the eventuality of any emergency, the following

Rapid Response hotlines can be contacted: 08127155071, 08127155150, 08029950048, 767 or 112.

ACCEPT OUR CONDOLENCES

Vice President, Prof. Yemi Osinbajo (left), during a condolence visit to the former Attorney General and the Minister of Justice, Prince Bola Ajibola, who lost his wife, Olufunmilayo, at his residence in Abeokuta....yesterday

Heritage Bank Posts N1.5bn Profit in 2015 Shareholders say bank is healthy

Obinna Chima in Lagos and James Emejo in Abuja The first full year results of Heritage Bank Plc since it commenced operation has shown that the bank recorded a profit before tax of N1.5 billion for the operating year ended 2015.

This was contained in the audited financial statement announced by the bank for 2015, which represents its first full operating year since its acquisition of former Enterprise Bank Plc in October 2014.

The financial statement showed that the bank recorded gross earnings of N24.2 billion in the year under review, while its net interest income stood at N12.2 billion and profit after tax of N1.1 billion.

During the year under review, Heritage Bank attracted N312 billion as deposit from customers.

Also, the bank’s loans and advances were N175 billion while its total assets stood at N483.4 billion in billion as at the end of 2015.

Commenting on the results, Managing Director/Chief Executive, Heritage Bank, Mr. Ifie Sekibo, said: “This result is a testimony to the increased acceptability of Heritage Bank’s innovative products and services by the banking public. It is also a reward for the diligent commitment of the staff and management of the bank to our mission to create, preserve and transfer wealth across generations.

“In the 2016 operating year, our desire to reciprocate the patronage of our customers and goodwill from stakeholders has prompted us to introduce new and bespoke services driven by

cutting edge technology designed to empower businesses and individuals with opportunities to achieve economic prosperity.

“The positive response to these efforts gives us assurance of improved financial performance in 2016 leading to enhanced returns to our investors.”

In October 2014, Heritage Bank acquired 100 per cent shareholding in Enterprise Bank Limited from the Asset Management Corporation of Nigeria (AMCON).

Heritage Investment Services Limited (HISL), the investment arm of Heritage Bank, was the winning bidder out of 24 Nigerian and international companies that competed for the acquisition of Enterprise Bank then.

Heritage Bank commenced operations in March 2013. The deposit money bank was formed from the defunct Societe Generale Bank of Nigeria (SGBN) and was granted a regional banking licence by the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN).

On commencement of business, its shareholding structure was 80 per cent core investor, nine per cent legacy bank, and 11 per cent of depositors’ fund.

Heritage Bank was recently selected by the CBN as its pilot partner to unveil, administer and manage the N3 billion Youth Innovative Entrepreneurship Development Programme (YIEDP).

The programme is aimed at creating sustainable wealth and employment in the country with focus on dependable job creating sectors such as Agricultural Value Chain (fish

farming, poultry, snail farming), Cottage Industry, Mining and Solid Minerals, Creative Industry (Tourism, Arts and Crafts), and Information and Communications Technology (ICT).

Meanwhile, shareholders of the bank have debunked online media report that it could be distressed given that it is coowned by the former Chairman of Skye Bank, Dr. Tunde Ayeni, and Senate President, Dr. Bukola Saraki.

Ayeni recently resigned from Skye Bank ahead of a CBN announcement replacing the management board over issues bordering on capital adequacy and non performing loans which had breached the prudential threshold.

However, the bank’s majority shareholders maintained that the financial institution was currently “one of the healthiest and fastest growing banks in the country” and frowned at the deliberate attempt by certain persons to use a section of the media to de-market the bank.

A leading shareholder of the bank, Alhaji Musa Ibrahim Misau ,said at the briefing in Abuja that investors were taken aback over the negative comments about the bank.

He said: “We are thoroughly miffed by the attempt by certain persons or groups, who do not mean well for the economy of our great country and indeed the economic agenda of our dear president, to negatively target Heritage Bank, a bank that the CBN and several local and internal rating agencies have ranked among the healthiest banks in Nigeria, as a struggling bank.

“This is most mischievous and totally out of order. It is a glaring case of de-marketing and we have since drawn the attention of the CBN to this very dangerous trend.”

He said the shareholder are particularly saddened by the deliberate falsehood being spread by the online news platform, that Heritage Bank is “co-owned”

by Ayeni and Saraki.

According to him: “It is a lie that can only emanate from persons who do not wish the economy of Nigeria well. For your information, Ayeni has less than one per cent share in Heritage Bank and Bukola Saraki has no shares or any form of ownership stakes in Heritage Bank.”

He said: “It is not a secret that the owners and key shareholders in bank bought off the defunct Societe Generale Bank (SGBN) which was owned by the Saraki family. The Saraki family was out-rightly bought out. The family, including Saraki does not have a dime in Heritage Bank. We have in just a few years built this bank to a colossus that has become the envy of the sector and we are not going to sit by and allow ill-intentioned persons to de-market Heritage bank.

No, it will not happen.”

Misau said: “It is so far from the truth. But you are all journalists and have access to the CBN; please go and get the facts, figures and data from the CBN. I cannot imagine how normal persons can conceive and concoct such evil. The fact that Ayeni is a very marginal shareholder in the bank does not at all mean that what happened at Skye Bank would necessarily happen at Heritage Bank.

WEDNESDAY JULY 6, 2016 • T H I S D AY

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NEWS

WEF Ranks Nigeria 119th in Global Information Technology Obinna Chima The World Economic Forum (WEF) has ranked Nigeria 119th out of 139 economies in the overall ranking of its Global Information Technology Report (GITR).

The WEF disclosed this in its GITR Report 2016 released yesterday.

According to the WEF, the report is its first major competitiveness research report this year.

The GITR measures countries’ success or otherwise in creating the conditions necessary for a transition to a digitalised economy and society.

According to the report, although Nigeria did not move overall in the rankings, staying in 119th position, the country recorded lots of movement in sub-pillars of the index.

For example, it disclosed that Nigeria recorded six-spot move up in Readiness (to 117th) and a ten-spot move down in Impacts (to 114th).

The Networked Readiness Index (NRI) measures, on a scale from one (worst) to seven (best), the performance of 139 economies in leveraging information and communications technologies to boost competitiveness, innovation and well-being “The improvement in readiness is to a large extent thanks to Nigeria reaching full mobile coverage this year; broadband prices have also

fallen slightly, although they remain high. The political and regulatory environment are perceived to be improving, while at the same time the business and innovation environment are perceived as deteriorating.

“Government usage and engagement is perceived to have dropped significantly over the course of the last year, yet this may change under the new government that came to power in 2015. Overall, conditions for ICT impacts seem to have deteriorated: both economic and social impacts record a decline. A policy priority with far-reaching benefits in other areas should be to address the country’s skills gap (134th),” it stated.

The NRI also sees several sub-Saharan African countries among the top upward movers, including South Africa (65th, up 10), Ethiopia (120th, up 10) and Côte d’Ivoire (106th, up 9).

Leadership, in terms of digital adoption, according to the report, come from different groups of stakeholders.

While it showed that efforts were very much governmentdriven in Ethiopia and Côte d’Ivoire, it pointed out that the business sector is providing the most momentum in South Africa. The largest barriers to tackle for Côte d’Ivoire will be infrastructure and affordability; reversing the trend of a deteriorating business and innovation environment

Sheriff Vows to Field Candidate for Edo Guber Election Onyebuchi Ezigbo in Abuja Despite last Monday’s judgment of the Federal High Court in Port Harcourt, the ousted National Chairman of Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Senator Ali Modu Sheriff, has said he would still submit the name of Matthew Iduoriyekwemwen to the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) as the governorship candidate for the September 10 election in Edo State.

Sheriff who spoke yesterday in Abuja when he presented certificate of return to Iduoriyekwemwen in Abuja said instead, he would be relying on last week’s judgment by Justice Okon Abang of Federal High Court in Abuja to send the factional candidate’s name to INEC. Before last Monday’s judgment delivered by a court in Port Harcourt, another court in Abuja presided over by Justice Abang, had affirmed that Sheriff is the PDP national chairman and the one authorized to submit name of the candidate to INEC, not the caretaker committee.

Speaking shortly after presenting the certificate of return to the candidate, Sheriff said he had to shelve his travel for Sallah in order to conclude the processes required by INEC.

“It is clear that from Abuja High Court that INEC is obliged to accept the candidate we are to present. You know ideally, most of our officials have travelled for Sallah. We need to do this because, the first working day we are going to submit our candidate’s form to INEC. “I have to stay behind to do some of the things so as to ensure that the forms are submitted after the Sallah break,” Sheriff stated.

The Secretary of the committee that conducted Sheriff’s factional Edo State primary, Alhaji Ahmed Gulak, said a total of 677 delegates were accredited for the primary while 502 delegates voted.

According to him, out of this number, Iduoriyekwemwen got 481 votes, his challenger has stepped down for him.

In his remarks, Iduoriyekwemwen who has chosen former PDP Edo woman leader, Mrs. Herberta Okonofua-Ayo as his running mate, denied that he was being sponsored by All Progressives Congress (APC)-led Edo State Government.

He said the crisis would not affect the chances of the PDP in the election, adding that the party will emerge stronger.

for South Africa; and boosting individual usage and skills for Ethiopia, the report stated.

Overall, the 2016 edition of the NRI found Singapore as the highest-placed country in the world when it comes to networked readiness. Finland, which topped the ranking in 2014, remained in second place for a second year in a row, followed by Sweden (third), Norway (4th) and the United States (fifth), which climbed two places. Making up the rest of the top 10 were the Netherlands, Switzerland, the United Kingdom, Luxembourg and Japan.

While the upper echelons of the NRI continued to reflect a strong correlation between networked readiness and per

capita income, roughly 75 per cent of the countries included in this year’s index showed a score improvement in 2016.

However, convergence both at the global and regional level remains elusive, with four regions – Eurasia, Emerging Europe, the Middle East, North Africa and Pakistan (MENAP) group, and sub-Saharan Africa – having widened the gap between the most and least networked-ready since 2012.

Elsewhere in the NRI, of the large emerging markets, Russia remained unchanged at 41st position. China came next, moving up three places to 59th.

South Africa improves markedly, climbing 10 places to 65th, while Brazil partially recovers from a previous downward trend to

72nd this year and India drops two places to 91st.

According to the WEF, in addition to providing insights into countries’ performance in the unfolding digital revolution, the report shows how much innovation is digital; also that paents are declining as a measure of innovative capacity; that the ICT infrastructure gap remains a chronic challenge and is getting wider; and social impact needs new momentum.

“The digital economy is an essential part of the architecture of the Fourth Industrial Revolution. In order for digital technology to continue contributing economic and social impact, societies need to anticipate its effects on markets and to ensure a fair deal for

workers in digitized market environments. New models of governance will be key in this,” Head of the Centre for the Global Agenda, Member of the Managing Board, WEF, Geneva, Richard Samans said.

Cross-border data flows drive innovation and growth,” Vice President of Government Affairs, Cisco, Pastora Valero, said.

“The countries and companies innovating most prominently know that it is the free flow of ideas and information, which leads to improvements in processes and products. Initiatives to foster the free flow of data are crucial to supporting the global nature of the data economy.”

ON IKPEAZU WE STAND

Former Governor Abia State, Senator Theodore Orji; former Chairman, NDDC, Chief Onyema Ugochukwu; and a traditional ruler, Dr Eberechi Dick, during a press conference by Abia State elders on the governorship crises in the state in Abuja.... yesterday JULIUS ATO

Court Restrains R.T. Briscoe from Withdrawing Funds in Banks Davidson Iriekpen The Federal High Court in Lagos has restrained an automobile and generator company, R.T. Briscoe Nigeria Plc, from withdrawing its funds in any bank over an alleged N2.5billion debt owed Diamond Bank Plc. Justice Ibrahim Buba granted an order of interim injunction restraining the company, its directors or management from “operating, withdrawing from or otherwise tampering with the respondent’s funds in any bank of financial institution within Nigeria.”

The order, the judge said, will subsist until the bank’s application for the appointment of a provisional liquidator for the company is heard and determined.

Justice Buba also made a consequential order compelling the affected banks where R. T. Briscoe has accounts to furnish Diamond Bank or its firm of solicitors with details of credit outstanding in the company’s

accounts within seven days.

The judge further barred R.T Briscoe from alienation, dissipating or transferring its fixed and moveable assets, properties, machinery and tools of trade until the bank’s application for appointment of a liquidator is determined.

Diamond Bank, in its windingup petition, said R.T Briscoe is its long-standing customer since May 2012.

It said it availed the bank global facilities which include an overdraft facility, letter of credit facility and term loan, which were all availed in tranches.

The facilities, the bank said, were for the purchase of Toyota brands of vehicles and spare parts, importation of Atco brand of generators and compressors, purchase of a piece of land in GRA, augmentation of its working capital, among others.

The bank said following a Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) directive on non-performing loans, it made a demand for the recovery of total overdue loan

obligations of N712,488,921.67 and a total outstanding indebtedness of N2,529,687,108.86 as at last June 3.

Diamond Bank said it agreed to restructure the credit facilities by revising the repayment schedule, yet the company “willfully failed and/or neglected to liquidate the indebtedness in accordance with the strict adherence to the revised schedule.

“The respondent is still heavily indebted to the petitioner in the sum of N2,478,284,729.88 as at May 2016,” the bank told the court through its lawyer Kunle Ogunba (SAN) of Insolvency Forte.

The bank said R.T Briscoe is “insolvent and unable to pay its just and legitimate debts,” and should, therefore, be wound-up by the court in line with sections 409(1) and 410 (1) (b) of the Companies and Allied Matters Act of 2004.

But, R.T Briscoe has urged the court to discharge or set aside the interim order of injunction because the bank allegedly

suppressed and misrepresented material facts to the court.

The company said the Companies Winding Up Rules require the petitioner to make the application for injunction on notice rather than ex-parte.

“There are third party interests being adversely affected by the interim order of injunction granted against the respondent,” R.T Briscoe said.

The company denied being indebted to the bank to the tune of N2.5billion as at May “or at any time.”

It claimed to have been servicing its loan obligations monthly despite awaiting the final approval for the loan restructuring.

R.T Briscoe said its business has been “crippled” by the order as no staff or contractors or suppliers could be paid.

“It is in the interest of justice to set aside and discharge the interim order of injunction,” the company added.

Justice Buba adjourned until July 8 for hearing.

WEDNESDAY, JUly 6, 2016 • T H I S D AY

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EID-EL-FITR FELICITATIONS…

EID-EL-FITR FELICITATIONS…

Governors, Others Call for Nigeria’s Unity Our Correspondents

qualities such as commitment, discipline, obedience to and love for Allah, and apply same in their daily relationship with their fellow human beings irrespective of ethnic and religious affiliations.

The governor enjoined the people of the state to live in peace and extend hands of fellowship to their neighbours to allow for peaceful atmosphere in the state.

“It is a known fact that this is not a good time for the country. The economy is in doldrums.

There is palpable air of insecurity all over the country.

“As we wade through this economic and security turbulence, all we need, both leaders and the led; Muslims and Christians and adherents of other faiths, is to come together as one and cooperate with President Muhammadu Buhari to jointly pursue our a common destiny.

“I congratulate the Muslim faithful in the country for the successful completion of fasting.”

Sokoto State Governor, Aminu Waziri Tambuwal, yesterday urged all Nigerians to close ranks and work for the unity, stability and progress of the nation.

This was contained in a message to commemorate this year’s eid-el-fitr celebration issued in Sokoto by the Special Adviser to the Governor on Media and Public Affairs, Malam Imam Imam.

The governor enjoined Muslims to use the opportunity of the end of Ramadan to offer prayers to God for peaceful co-existence among different ethno-religious groups in the country.

“Even though the Ramadan period is over, we must continue to live up to the tenets of our faith through acts of charity, peaceful coexistence, obedience to the injunctions of the Holy Qu’ran and sacrifice,” the statement read.

He urged all Nigerians to demonstrate the spirit of tolerance, unity, forgiveness and compassion to compatriots.

Tambuwal also charged Muslims in the country and beyond to be worthy ambassadors of the faith by exemplifying all of the virtues that distinguished Prophet Mohammad.

We Must Remain Prayerful, Niger Governor, PDP Tell Nigerians

As Muslims across the globe celebrate this year’s Eid el-Fitri festival, the Niger State Governor, Alhaji Abubakar Sani Bello and the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) have asked Muslims in the state to remain prayerful for the revival of the national economy.

The duo made the plea in separate statements made available to journalists in Minna yesterday to commemorate the religious festival.

While the governor admonished the people to continue to live the life of sacrifice in line with the tenets of the just concluded Ramadan, Tanko Beji, the state PDP Chairman charged Nigerians to continue to pray for the revival of the state and national economy.

Bello in the message also observed that the situation in the state required more sacrifice from the leaders and the led because “there is reward for every sacrifice made.

Beji said in his statement that “There is no doubt that the prevailing economy situation in the country is inflicting a lot of pains on the ordinary people’ but believed that ‘with fervent prayers things would improve for the better.”

“At a time like this when our state and indeed our country are passing through dire economic challenges due to the slump in national earning it will take more prayers from religious faithful to achieve economic revival and national rebirth, therefore I challenge all Muslims not relax in offering prayers to Allah even after the holy month.”

Fayose, Bamidele, Oluyede Call for Dedication, Sacrifice

Ekiti State Governor, Mr. Ayodele Fayose, has charged leaders and the well-to-do in the country to empathise with the poor and remember them in their policies and actions, as everybody will one day give account of their stewardship to their creator.

This is just as he said the voice of the poor must also be heard, while those who have taken it upon themselves to be the voice of the voiceless must not be silenced.

He said this in his Sallah message to mark the celebration of this year’s Eid-el-Fitr festival.

In a statement by his Chief Press Secretary, Mr. Idowu Adelusi, in Ado-Ekiti yesterday, the governor said: “With the hardship that Nigerians are currently going through, this is not the period to turn a deaf ear to their crying for the amelioration of their situation.

“One of the lessons of Rammadan fasting is for the privileged to also experience what the poor, who are unable to feed properly or feed at all, are going through. Hunger does not know colour or position and the situation we have on hand in the country now is a grave one.

“A situation that people are stealing pots of soup from the fireplace, a situation where people are exchanging their children for foodstuff, where a lot of people don’t have access to basic needs of life, is not one to be self-centred.

Meanwhile, a former member of the House of Representatives, Hon. Opeyemi Bamidele, urged Muslims to rededicate themselves to

We Must Remain United, Ikpeazu Charges Muslims

A cross section of indigenes and non-indigenes of Osun State boarding the free train provided by the state government in Lagos...yesterday the service of the nation as they celebrate the end of Ramadan fasting.

Bamidele, a member of the seventh House of Representatives, urged Muslim adherents to always reenact the spirit of holiness, brotherliness and oneness, which they exhibited during the 30 days of Ramadan fasting, for Nigeria to become a model in line with the dream of its founding fathers.

In a statement by his Media Aide, Ahmed Salami , in Ado Ekiti yesterday, Bamidele appealed to Muslims to always replicate the sacrifices they made during the month of fasting in their daily lives as commanded by Prophet Mohammed(SAW).

Also, an APC chieftain , Dr. Wole Oluyede has congratulated Muslims faithful in the Ekiti, Nigeria and all over the world on the occasion of the Eid-el-Fitir.

Dr. Oluyede in a statement issued by his media aide, Akinlabi Lincoln expressed joy on the successful completion of Ramadan fast by Muslims in Ekiti state and beyond.

He explained that witnessing another Eid-el-Fitr is a special privilege from the Almighty Allah who rule over the affairs of man.

Ahmad, Fatigun Congratulate Muslims in Kwara

The Speaker of the Kwara State House of Assembly, Hon. Dr. Ali Ahmad, has congratulated Muslims for the successful completion of Ramadan, urging them to celebrate modestly.

In his Eid-el-Fitr message issued in Ilorin yesterday, Ahmad advised them to always reflect on the lessons learnt in the holy month for the betterment of the society.

Ahmad added that the celebration provides the best opportunity for Nigerians irrespective of religion, ethnicity, political or social status to come together as one indivisible family with a view to making the nation a great one.

According to him, “Undoubtedly, the nation can successfully surmount the present challenges of economic downturn and series of crises being experienced in the nooks and crannies of the country.”

“However, it will require our total collectiveness to enable us move out of the present situation.

We’re not the first country to witness such trend but certainly we can come out good soon.”

Also in his Eid-el Fitr message, the chairman, Ekitti local government council of Kwara State, Hon. Akintoba Fatigun urged Muslims to use the just concluded Ramadan fast to pray for peace and justice in the country.

He said Muslims should continue to abide the tenets of the fast in order to move the nation forward.

Fatigun added that, the people of the country should continue to pray for the nation’s leadership to know the right thing to do so as to alleviate the sufferings of the populace.

He therefore said his administration would continue to embark on laudable projects that would have direct impacts on the socio well being of the populace.

Obi Calls for Reflection

Former Governor of Anambra State, Mr. Peter Obi, has called on Nigerians to use the occasion of this year’s Eid-El-Fitr celebration to reflect about themselves and the country.

Obi who stated this in his Ramadan message he made available to journalists yesterday, insisted that no celebration calls for joy in Nigeria today, but “that any phenomenon in whatever guise in Nigeria today should offer us the opportunity to think about ourselves, our country and the future we plan to bequeath to posterity.”

While lamenting the spate of violence in the world, the former governor called on Nigerians to see religious celebrations as a call for love, to share and promote peace in the world in line with the teachings of those that founded the religions of the world.

“We need to ask ourselves what we can do for the country both for our own good and the future generations. Greatness will come to nations that consciously plan and work hard to achieve consensus and confidence-building.

Discipline and patriotic spirit of service are therefore essential to safeguarding the future.

We cannot build our country by first destroying it,” Obi added.

Amosun Urges Nigerians to Shun Violence, Corruption As Muslims across the globe celebrate EidEl-Fitr, Ogun State Governor, Senator Ibikunle Amosun, has called on Muslims and Nigerians in general to shun all forms of corruption and violence even after the holy month of Ramadan.

According to him, “Even after Ramadan, let us not forget the values, ethos and virtues we embraced during the holy month.”

He congratulated faithful of Islam in Nigeria and all over the world for the successful completion of the holy month of Ramadan.

Amosun also seized the occasion to admonish them to imbibe the values represented by Ramadan and make them an integral part of their lives.

The governor prayed for peace in the country as he urged Nigerians, irrespective of religious, political and ethnic differences, to come together and work for the prosperity and progress of the nation.

Aregbesola Urges Peace, Devt

Governor of Osun, Rauf Aregbesola, has called on Muslims nationwide to pray for peace as the country is going through tough economic and security challenges.

Aregbesola, in a statement by the Director, Bureau of Communication and Strategy, Mr. Semiu Okanlawon, admonished Muslims to imbibe the salient lessons of Ramadan and emulation of the humility, good neighbourliness, understanding and love exemplified by the life of Prophet Mohammed.

According to him, Muslims must exhibit

Abia State Governor, Dr. Okezie Ikpeazu, has charged Muslims living in the state to continue to exhibit qualities of good-neighbourliness and always feel at home in state.

Governor Ikpeazu, who gave this charge while observing the iftar breaking of Ramadan fast with the leadership of the Muslim community in the state at the Government House, Umuahia, assured them of the continued support of the state government.

The governor recalled that he went to Maiduguri at the age of 16 and spent about seven years at the University of Maiduguri for his bachelor and master degrees, and disclosed that he was very conversant with the tenets of Islam and has a lot of respect for the faith.

He urged the Muslim faithful to continue to practice the good deeds they imbibed during the period of Ramadan and wished them a happy Eid-El-Fitr celebrations.

Ikpeazu also used the opportunity of the meeting to call for support for President Muhammadu Buhari and the fight against corruption in the country.

Earlier, the leader of the delegation, Alhaji Musa Iheakaram, disclosed that the entire Muslims in the state were at government house to express solidarity with the state governor and thank him for his love for Muslims in the state.

Also in the delegation were Chief Imams of Aba, Umuahia, Lokpanta and Ohafia as well as Sarkin Hausa in Aba and Umuahia and Sarkin Fulanin in Umuahia.

Rivers PDP Chairman, Obuah Congratulates Muslims The Chairman of Rivers State chapter of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Felix Obuah, has felicitated with Muslims resident in the state for a successful completion of the Ramadan fast and the celebration of Eid-el-Fitr.

Obuah, in a goodwill message to Muslim faithful, thanked God for His steadfastness and love for them and all Nigerians for another opportunity to renew their faiths in Him according to the teachings of Prophet Mohammed.

The state PDP chairman prayed that the heart desires and hopes of the Muslim brothers for undertaking the spiritual exercise would be granted by God whose love for His children never fails.

He also enjoined the Muslims to use the holy period of Ramadan fasting for inner reflections and make a u-turn from human imperfections to do that which is right and pleasing to God. Reassuring the Muslims of support, Obuah also reminded them of their civic responsibility to be law-abiding and peaceful in their private and public conduct in order to create an atmosphere of peaceful co-existence with others.

The chairman reiterated the state government resolve to provide a conducive environment for all to excel in all their vocations irrespective of tribe, religion or political affiliations, and therefore urged them to support and pray for the administration of the state Governor, Nyesom Wike, who he said has demonstrated his preparedness to make the state the home for all Nigerians with all the rights and privileges including that of religious worship.

WEDNESDAY JULY 6 2016 • T H I S D AY

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NEWSEXTRA

Niger Gov Slashes Govt House Budget by almost 80% to Save Cost Laleye Dipo in Minna

Amidst the uproar generated by the cut in the salary of workers by over 50 per cent, the Niger State Governor, Alhaji Abubakar Sani Bello, has announced a drastic slash in the weekly budget of the government house.

Bello said the government house would now spend N20million monthly as against the previous weekly budget of N150million.

The governor however did not give details of the slash but said it was in line with the prevailing economic situation of the state which has made the execution of capital projects and settlement of other recurrent expenditure very difficult.

Last week, when the salary for the month of June was paid to all category of workers, it was with not less than 50 per cent reduction, a development which generated outcry from mostly civil servants.

Addressing stakeholders in Kontagora, Bello asked for sacrifices from everybody in

the state because the economic downturn that has hit the country was now biting harder in the state.

“Nigeria in general and Niger State in particular is facing serious economic challenges as a result of fall in oil price at the international market and the security challenges in the Niger Delta. Niger State like many other states of Nigeria depends on federal allocation, which has reduced drastically since the beginning of this administration.”

The governor said the state that was getting between N5billion and N7billion from the federation account under the last administration is now getting not more than N2.4billion, adding that with a salary bill of N2.2billion the government has had to borrow well over N3billion in the last four months to augment the salaries of workers.

The situation, Bello said, called for more stringent economic measures to be put in place if the state is to remain

afloat and therefore called for more sacrifice on the part of the entire people of the state.

“These challenges call for sacrifice from all of us from me as governor to the messenger in the state. Already, this administration has reduced spending in government House from over N150 million weekly to N20 million.”

He said the government was committed to the mandate given to the administration by the over four million people in the state, adding that the obligation included but not limited to payment of salary. “ We have to provide basic amenities in line with the cardinal priority of the administration.”

Bello disclosed that not less than 52 projects were ongoing in the state and they include the construction of roads, renovation of schools and hospitals and water projects.

Stakeholders at the meeting lauded the efforts of the administration and pledged their support to the government.

Nollywood Stars Eulogise Glo on Prof.

Johnbull Drama Series As new TV social satire series, Prof.

Johnbull, prepares to hit the tube, the cast and crew of the drama series sponsored

by Globacom, have expressed huge delight over their involvement in the production.

The drama series is set in Enugu, South-east and is billed to feature the best actors in Nigeria’s movie industry.

TheyincludeKanayoO.Kanayo(KOK) who plays the major role, Prof. Johnbull and Mercy Johnson as well as Bimbo Akintola, Ime Bishop Okon, Queen Nwokoye, Junior Pope, among others.

The excited Nollywood stars have been on location for weeks to shoot the series.

AccordingtoKOK,“Itfeelssofulfilling playing the lead role Prof. Johnbull. I feel honored to be chosen to interpret this role. It’s a huge challenge; in-fact it is one role I see as being too technical for me to play, technical because the high-sounding grammar the character speaks, is that, which you must have to research, and that means you have to keep on rehearsing yourself every day.”

Nollywoodsuperstar,MercyJohnson excitedly noted that “Prof. Johnbull drama series will have a huge impact on the society because it is a social satire which is meant to teach and entertain at the same time and that is what this is

just doing, teaching the society as well as entertaining them.

“The drama series, I’m sure, will help to correct the ills in the society. I mean the South Eastern audience will really enjoy it a lot. My role is a comic character called Caro, an illiterate girl who sells oranges but found favor in theprofessor’sdaughterwhoconvinced the dad to bring her in to be part of the family,” she opined.

Yomi Fash-Lanso who plays the character, Olaniyi, a Southerner who runs an “Nkwobi joint” in the series, described the drama as educative and entertaining saying it would inform South Easterners in particular and Nigerians in general about the need for peaceful co-existence among tribes in the country.

Said Fash-Lanso, “The drama series hasamixtureofcharactersfromdifferent cultures and background in Nigeria.

For instance, I play the role, Olaniyi, who is a southerner; Funky Mallam plays the role, Mallam Doya, a character who is a northerner and there are other characters who are easterners.”

While showering encomiums on Globacom for coming up with the initiative he added: “Glo for me has alwaysbeenapacesetter;thecompany’s

contributiontotheentertainmentindustry in this country is unparalleled. They have always been at the fore-front of entertainment, and now coming up with this idea, I mean… wow…”

Elizabeth, a character played

by Queen Nwokoye, Prof.

Johnbull’s daughter, expressed similar views. “Prof. Johnbull is the first-of-its-kind here in the South-east. Trust me, viewers would always dash home to watch every edition, because I’m sure they wouldn’t want to miss it, even for a minute.”

Funky Mallam of northern descent also said that, “I’m feeling at home here in Enugu. The location is just warm and friendly. My role is Mallam Doya, a Hausa man who sells yam. The concept of the drama series is a nice one. I believe viewers will be glued to their TV screens.”

The series’ producer/director, Tchidi Tchikere, said during the Dream FM interview that the concept of developing Prof.

Johnbull as a TV. Drama series is commendable. He listed the merits of the series to include the emphasis placed on peaceful co-existence among the different tribes in Nigeria.

Refurbished APCs, a Boost to Troop Morale, Says Army Commander Michael Olugbode in Maiduguri The morale of troops in the battlefields of Sambisa Forest and Boko Haram enclaves in northern part of Borno State has been boosted with the refurbishment of the Armoured Personnel Carriers (APCs), the Commander of 107 Implement and Equipment Support (IES) of the Nigerian Army, Col. Musbahu Yusuf, has said.

Yusuf told the Chief of Army Staff, Lt. Gen. Tukur Buratai, yesterday in Maiduguri that the refurbishment of

the APCs and other military hardwares at Maimalari Cantonment, Maiduguri has boosted the morale of troops in the battlefields.

He said most of the APCs and other fighting equipment were refurbished with the modifications of their engines, including their power packs; noting that this would make the troops to overcome the difficulty of the forest and desert terrains in the North-east sub-region of the country.

Yusuf said: “Most of the challenges being faced are the dearth of spare parts; but we have been able to

overcome that by looking at engines of similar characteristics; and modified them to suit the power packs of these APCs in stock.”

He said the refurbishment of the APCs would boost the morale of the fighting troops in that more APCs will convey them as the battle field taxis to and fro from in all their operations in the North-east, particularly the forest and northern part of Borno State.

He said the more of the APCs deployed to the battle fields, the “better and easier” for the troops end this war against Boko Haram terrorists.

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T H I S D AY • WEDNESDAY, JULY 6, 2016

COMMENT

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

WEEP NOT FOR ABIA STATE

A

Laws and court orders are most likely to be effective when they are consistent with accepted societal norms, writes Sonnie Ekwowusi

ny person conversant with the history of subversion of the rule of law especially the disobedience of court orders in Nigeria at least in the last 25 years will not be scandalised by the show of shame in Abia State last week following the politically-instigated moves to unseat Governor Victor Okezie Ikpeazu and to install Samson Uchechukwu Ogah in his stead. The latest subversion of the rule of law in Abia State is the re-enactment, or, if you like, the replication of the travesties of yesteryears. In other words, the Abia State travesty is a link in the continuing chain of travesties. That is why instead of weeping for Abia State it is preferable to weep for Nigeria. We should shed tears for being accustomed to executive lawlessness, politics without principles, politicians without integrity and abuse of the judiciary by the very people who ought to protect it.

Without delving into the merit or demerit of the respective cases of Ikpeazu and Ogah since the cases are still sub-judice, the Abia judicial abracadabra is simply baffling. Prior to the Federal High Court order purportedly unseating Governor Ikpeazu, Abia State was relatively enjoying the best of peace.

Governor Ikpeazu had successfully fought his election case up to the Supreme Court compelling all the combatants who lost out in the Abia State Gubernatorial Election including APGA Gubernatorial candidate Dr. Alex Otti to sheath their swords in order to give peace a chance. In fact the amiable and peaceful Dr Otti sent a congratulatory message to Ikpeazu after the latter’s victory at the Supreme Court. Then while peace lay over the face of Abia, Ogah suddenly stormed Umuahia from Abuja brandishing a court order and saying that he was now the Governor of Abia State. Governor Ikpeazu had earlier proceeded to file an appeal against the said Ogah’s court order as well as an application for a stay of execution. Notwithstanding the pendency of the aforesaid court processes which were duly served on INEC, and, considering that pursuant to the doctrine of lis pendens and the case of OJUKWU V GOVERNOR OF LAGOS STATE (1985) and other cases, both Ikpeazu and Ogah are legally obliged to maintain the status quo ante bellum pending the final determination of Ikpeazu’s appeal and stay of execution, Ogah and his cohorts together with INEC are still plotting to swear in Ogah as Abia Governor.

Why was INEC in a hurry to issue a certificate of return to Ogah and to have him sworn in as Abia State Governor? If one may further ask, what is the rationale for Ogah’s court order? As instruments of social engineering, laws and court orders are most likely to be effective when they are consistent with the most generally accepted societal norms and reflect the collective morality of the people for proper ordering of human society. That is why public policy doctrine dictates that a court order capable of throwing the society into chaos and disorder should not be made in the first place. More importantly, a

court of law does not make an order in vain let alone make an order capable of ridiculing the integrity of the entire judiciary.

But like I said earlier, the Abia State show of shame is ingrained in the injustices of yesteryears. How did Dr. Martin Luther King (Jr) put it again? Injustice anywhere is a big threat to justice everywhere. In Nigeria, the accumulated subversion of the rule law of yesteryears breeds or engenders new subversion today. What have we not seen in Nigeria? The function of the judiciary as a dispenser of justice, sustainer of good governance and a bulwark of justice has at least in the last 30 years suffered a big set-back in Nigeria. We have seen great subversion of the rule of law especially in the Peter Obi, Rotimi Amaechi and Kayode Fayemi governorship cases. We have seen the emasculation of the judiciary in several states in Nigeria. We have seen justice advertised for sale; we have seen frequent abuses of court processes; we have seen frequent abuses of ex-parte orders and injunctions; we have seen courts of coordinate jurisdiction spewing out conflicting restraining orders to the benefit of some politicians and ruin of others.

And now in the present Buhari government we have seen allegation of impropriety openly levelled against some members of the bar and the bench; we have seen the Buhari government disobeying court orders; we have seen injustice meted out against perceived enemies of government; we have seen some law courts applying double-standards in the anti-corruption cases, granting bail to some suspects while denying bail to perceived enemies of government. We have seen a new EFCC mainly programmed to go against perceived enemies of the state all in the name of fighting corruption. We have seen the Presidency waging a revengeful war to remove Senate President Bukola Saraki and Deputy Senate President Ike Ekweremadu from office to the detriment of executive-legislature rapprochement and good governance in Nigeria. We have seen a new dictatorship that arrogantly depicts itself as the new arbiter of truth with total disdain for the rule of law.

WE SHOULD SHED TEARS FOR BEING ACCUSTOMED TO EXECUTIVE LAWLESSNESS, POLITICS WITHOUT PRINCIPLES, POLITICIANS WITHOUT INTEGRITY AND ABUSE OF THE JUDICIARY BY THE VERY PEOPLE WHO OUGHT TO PROTECT IT

We must watch it. It is well-settled that the rule of law is the bulwark of constitutional democracy. Nigeria’s greatest weakness at the moment is not really the weakness of the naira: it is the weakness of the rule of law. There is a correlation between economic growth and the rule of law. Evidence abounds that countries with strong rule of law have achieved great economic prosperity whereas countries with weak rule of law have remained stagnant in the lowest rung of the development ladder. That is why the political lawlessness in Nigeria now accentuated by the politically-instigated governorship tussle between Ikpeazu and Ogah in Abia State calls for concern. We fret and tremble about the depreciating naira. We lose sleepless nights over the economic recession forgetting that the subversion of the rule of law is really and truly the cause of our ruin.

OGUN AND REVENUE ALLOCATION FORMULA

R

ecently, at a public forum organised by the Nigeria Union of Journalists, Ogun State chapter in Abeokuta, Ogun State governor Senator Ibikunle Amosun reflected on the revenue allocation formula in the country: “Today in Nigeria, the federal government takes 54 per cent of the wealth of the nation, the 36 states and Abuja share 26 per cent. But the states are given all the bureau agencies.

So, there is pain. Ogun State, as an example, has 70 bureau agencies; most of these agencies require the state to support their activities financially.”

According to Paragraph 32 of the Third Schedule, Part I, of the 1999 Constitution, “The Commission (Revenue Mobilisation Allocation and Fiscal Commission -RMAFC) shall have power to (a) monitor the accruals to and disbursement of revenue from the Federation Account; (b) review, from time to time, the revenue allocation formulae and principles in operation to ensure conformity with changing realities.

Provided that any revenue formula which has been accepted by an Act of the National Assembly shall remain in force for a period of not less than five years from the date of commencement of the Act; (c) advise the Federal and State Governments on fiscal efficiency and methods by which their revenue can be increased…”

According to reports, the current revenue allocation formula (54% to federal govern-

Soyombo Opeyemi argues the need to revisit the revenue allocation formula ment, 26% to 36 states, and 20% to LGAs) has been in force for donkey’s years and is overdue for review.

There has been agitation for a new revenue formula long before the current government came to power and so it is wrong for anyone to attribute any delay to the new administration. Besides, from the express provision of the constitution, it is the duty of RMAFC to review the formula while the National Assembly and the president ensure it becomes an act. In other words, the ball is right in the court of the Revenue Mobilisation, Allocation and Fiscal Commission.

There is a consensus across the country that the formula should tilt in favour of the states, being the real centres of development in the country. The federal government is expected to take up only core federal matters.

The Revenue Mobilisation, Allocation and Fiscal Commission should, in my view, ensure that in the new revenue allocation template, each of the 36 states receives at least 1.5 per cent from the Federation Account, as against the current figure of 0.7 per cent (if we take a simple average for the sake of clarity - because states don’t receive the same amount from the Federation Account).

Today, you have a President Buhari that believes firmly in due process and does not interfere with the functions of autonomous bodies like RMAFC, as different from the practice in the past. The RMAFC should end its years of slumber and perform its constitutional function of giving a new revenue formula to the country.

If RMAFC had been alive to its responsibil-

ities, the immediate past government should not have been in a position to squander such huge financial resources with reckless abandon. There was simply too much money at the centre.

President Buhari won’t steal or mismanage a kobo even if you allocate 100% to the federal government, but who knows who may succeed him and what guarantee do we have that the country will not throw up another profligate administration? That is why things must be done properly and according to law rather than rely on the goodwill of any administration.

Today, everyone, including the current president, lauds the giant strides of the current governor of Ogun State but imagine what would have been the situation if RMAFC had done the right thing several years ago and Ogun had had more money to raise the scale of its landmark development projects.

While waiting for the RMAFC to do the right thing, it behoves on all states to take their cue from the Buhari administration by working on diversifying their economies in order to end reliance on oil in the foreseeable future.

The Economic Confidential, an economic intelligence magazine, in its latest report, has listed Ogun among the five states that improved tremendously their Internally Generated Revenues. The National Bureau of Statistics, in its recent report, actually rated Ogun as first among the 36 states in terms of percentage improvement in IGR).

Of course, Ogun State Government could

not have achieved such a financial milestone within a space of five years if its helmsman had not been frugal. Amosun’s prudent husbandry of resources and commitment to the welfare of workers readily commend themselves to all. Every kobo, whether from Abuja or generated within the state, is spent for the purpose it is meant. Of course, there are current financial challenges across the country which have affected all the states.

One should, in passing, caution against lumping politicking with development and mixing facts with fiction; it’s rather too early for the race for 2019 to attain such a steam.

It should not be lost on anyone, including the RMAFC, that diversification itself costs money. The states, which share power with the central government in a proper federalism, need resources to (further) open up their economies. Therefore, the body should bring out the new revenue allocation formula without further ado.

I should end this piece with a word on the argument that resources could also be wasted at the state level. Very well! If, for instance, a state governor decides to steal or misappropriate his state’s money rather than invest it in social services, then his own people who see how some other governors have judiciously spent their own funds will one day rise up against the spendthrift governor.

Surely, it is easier to hold accountable a state governor that is “your own” and lives among you than a president that is “for all” and lives in distant Abuja!

Opeyemi wrote from Abeokuta

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T H I S D AY • WEDNESDAY, JULY 6, 2016

EDITORIAL THE LESSONS FROM RAMADAN

T

There is need to pay more attention to the plight of the poor

he Muslims’ holy month of selfpurification and self-denial otherwise known as Ramadan has just ended. While it lasted, the season of fasting and prayer offered all Muslims the opportunity to reflect on their relationship with Allah.

It also enabled those with means to share food with the poor, the needy and the less privileged. For all Muslims, it was an opportunity to rededicate themselves to the teachings of the faith and the cause of mankind as a whole. Altogether, it was a period of deep reflection on the interrelationship between man and his neighbour, on the one hand, as well as man and his God, on the other.

Even though the month-long fasting has come and gone, its lessons must endure. As one of the five pillars of Islam, Ramadan has a highly spiritual significance. To devotees, it was a period of selfemptying without which no spiritual being can have a truly rewarding relationship with his or her maker. That explains IF OUR LEADERS why the exercise was CAN CURTAIL THEIR marked in Nigeria MATERIALISTIC (as elsewhere in the TENDENCIES AND PAY world) by private MORE ATTENTION TO and group prayers, THE YEARNINGS OF THE and abstinence from PEOPLE, THE COUNTRY all forms of worldly WILL CERTAINLY BECOME comforts and pleaA MUCH HAPPIER PLACE sures. The aim was to enhance spiritual growth and foster charity and brotherly love.

As the Muslims therefore mark the end of this annual spiritual exercise, it is hoped that the outcome will be of immense benefit to the nation.

Clearly, there has never been a greater need for sharing with the less privileged and the needy than exists today when millions of Nigerians can hardly make ends meet due to the prevailing economic

Letters to the Editor

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T H I S DAY

EDITOR IJEOMA NWOGWUGWU DEPUTY EDITORS BOLAJI ADEBIYI, JOSEph UShIGIALE 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

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situation in the country.

By paying attention to the plight of the poor, as was amply demonstrated in the course of Ramadan, we invariably place the welfare of our neighbour as important as ours. By allowing others to partake of our wealth or material possessions, we honour the One who gave us the wealth in the first place.

This happens to be at the heart of all religions but a virtue hardly imbibed by many in Nigeria today.

That must change.

Since the Ramadan fast, like the other four pillars of Islam, was aimed at promoting both the spiritual and material well being of man, it stands to reason that man is invariably better off doing the will of God than merely pleasing himself. When he is able to rein in the impulse for self-gratification and greedy accumulation of wealth, man is more liable to make his society a better place to live in, not only for himself but also for his neighbour. That for us was one of the most enduring lessons of Ramadan which we hope many would have imbibed.

I

t is noteworthy that fasting as a spiritual exercise is advocated by all religions ostensibly with the notion that the man who can make sacrifices in the bid to tame his desires would be a better person both for himself and the larger society. As one expert puts it, besides abstention from food and drink, fasting helps the faithful “from looking at the provocative, from hearing the mischievous, and from uttering the obscene...to avoid slander and from thinking about inflicting injury to others”.

All said, the nation’s leaders, political and otherwise, have much to take from the lessons of Ramadan. If they can curtail their materialistic tendencies and pay more attention to the yearnings of the people, the country will certainly become a much happier place for everyone. We therefore urge our leaders to imbibe the lessons of Ramadan.

To our numerous Muslim readers we say, Eid Mubarak. May Allah reward your sacrifice.

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.

NATIONAL YOUTH SERVICE CORPS: IN SEARCH OF RELEVANCE

Youth obey the clarion call. Let us lift our nation high.

Under the sun or in the rain. With dedication and selflessness, Nigeria is ours, Nigeria we serve”. This National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) anthem still is fresh in my memory, 20 years after completing my service to the nation. It is an anthem which every graduate is spiritually and physically committed to in the process of service to the nation.

The NYSC scheme, a once in a lifetime experience which every young graduate yearns for, was established on May 22, 1973 by decree 24 to promote unity and develop ethnic ties among youth in their various states of the federation. The thrills, frills and funfair usually associated with the programme, most especially the orientation part of it, make it enjoyable and inspiring for participating graduates from all parts of the country.

There have been divergent interests for the scheme among young graduates. While some see it as avenue to explore other people’s culture and tradition outside theirs, others see it as opportunity to recreate, catch fun and make some savings for future use. In fact the desperation of some young graduates concerning NYSC makes one wonders what is actually in it for them. There have been instances where some generate fake call-up letters while some others falsify their age just to be enlisted for the scheme.

However, away from the glorious and storied past of the scheme, presently the programme is searching for relevance. It has actually deviated from the original purpose and intention it meant to serve. It is now almost of little or no relevance to the economic aspirations of the country. Of late, the interests of corps members are not adequately protected, as it was in the past. Many public/private businesses enterprises that used to patronise the services of corps members have

either closed business or downsize due to insecurity and general state of the nation’s economy.

Whether the large turnout of fresh graduates are overwhelming or not, facilities for orientation are sometimes inadequate for the population this scheme caters for each year. Political and religious insecurity have equally exposed many corps members to needless deaths. There have been instances where some states had to send rescue team to bring back their indigenes during political or religious crisis. To this end, many parents have resisted posting of their wards to states on red alert.

To say the scheme needs an overhaul or speedy review is like saying the obvious. Like most of our national projects, the scheme is fast declining in value and usefulness. It is no longer shocking that the scheme is broke with funds barely sufficient to cater for the young graduates presented for national youth service. Food/structural facilities, essential for the up keep of corps members, are grossly deficient in some orientation camps.

Against the glorious past of secured primary places of assignment, corps members now struggle with the problem of rejection. In desperate attempt to secure the few available ‘juicy’ placements, many now use personal influence such as letters from well-connected ‘powerful’ individuals to secure favourable postings. It is, of course, sad to note that the crop of corps members that are to reconstruct and rebuild the nation economy are idle with unutilised potential.

Massive influence of posting to high density places like Lagos, Ibadan, Port Hacourt and Abuja puts pressure on already saturated environment with accommodation problem of corps members, all to the detriment of the scheme. So bad is the situation now that some people are calling for outright scrapping of the scheme, arguing that it

has outlived its purpose and outgrown its usefulness. Must we then throw away the baby with the bath water?

With 923,768km land mass and over 80% of arable land, less than 40% of it under cultivation, nothing stops Nigeria from being the food basket of Africa, if serious attention is given to agriculture. In the years of regional government, Nigeria did not only feed herself from her rich and vast agricultural interests, but also generated employment as well as earned enough foreign exchange for development of each region. Then, revenue from agriculture produce helped the federating units to develop at their own pace without depending on the centre for any bail out. The discovery of oil, however, has ridiculously turned things upside down for us as the federating units now wholly depend on the centre for bail outs and hand outs. Unsurprisingly, young graduates have equally developed job-seeking mentality. The youth that are supposed to drive agriculture with technology and renewed vigour would rather prefer to go job hunting for years, even when it is obvious that the jobs aren’t just there.

It is high time the government of Nigeria looked at the strength the nation has in her pool of labour, most especially in the manpower being released every year into the NYSC scheme.

Each state of the federation has comparative advantage in specific areas of agriculture. The capacity of the various states to boost food production can be enhanced by the NYSC scheme with adequate structure and remuneration for corps members. The power, vigour, dynamism and adventurism of youth, the strength of the youth could be directed towards boosting the agriculture sector to address the twin issues of food security and unemployment.

Bolaji Odumade, Ministry of Information & Strategy, Alausa, Lagos

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MIDWEEKPOLITICS

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

THE NEWSMAKER

Addressing the Senate, Presidency Crisis An inclusive leadership is all it takes to contain the current crisis of confidence between the Senate and the presidency, writes Adams Abonu

T

here comes a time in the life of a nation when it takes the auspiciousness of statesmen to rise to the occasion of salvaging the drift in her national life. Though there is no specific point at which this becomes imperative, the true test of statesmanship is the ability to stand up for one’s country when the chips are down.

With the Nigerian ship of state embattled from several fronts, from the wantonness and avarice of the not-so-distant past – with the National Assembly of Nigeria, a strategic arm of government riddled with many leadership crises arising from a flagrant breach of confidence by the actions of a few individuals and an executive perceived through its actions as a government on a vindictive mission – there couldn’t be a more auspicious occasion for patriotic intervention from concerned parties.

This is where the recent crisis that has engulfed the upper legislative chambers of the Senate comes into view. This is one crisis with the potential of taking a serious toll on the democratic evolution of Nigeria and a cross-section of Nigerians are of the opinion that every avenue to an amicable resolution should be exploited by the parties involved.

“We have too many problems in Nigeria today not to afford another political crisis and every perspective should be considered in seeing that the development at the National Assembly does not degenerate into a full blown crisis.

“The executive should let the legislature conduct their affairs as a separate arm of government and not be seen as one meddling with another arm of government. Meanwhile, it behooves the leaders of the senate to also conduct themselves with decorum as expected of them and should not be seen as an institution that seeks to protect does, who breach the very laws they were elected to make. If any of the actors in the drama would necessarily step aside to avert the coming debacle, that would be encouraging,” Mamman Adeka, a legal practitioner told THISDAY in Lafia, Nasarawa State.

An attempt at placing the crisis that has pitted the lawmakers against executive in proper perspectives, the public perception of the needless wrangles and a suggestion for one of the senators, who commands considerable influence with a penchant for building bridges across political divides to step in and unify his colleagues in the interest of the nation form the thrust of this intervention.

When the 8th Senate was inaugurated on June 9, 2015, expectations were high among Nigerians as to the prospects of the new senate under the majority of the All Progressives Congress (APC) which has just acquired national powers.

The days preceding the inauguration were marked by permutations and innuendoes that saw the leadership of the new ruling party preferring that the new senate be led by Senator Ahmed Lawan, a veteran lawmaker from Yobe and George Akume (Benue) as Senate President and Deputy Senate President in that order.

Then a rebellion led by a pack of senators from the majority APC in collusion with Peoples Democratic Party members under the auspices of “Senators of Like Minds” which saw the election of Senator Bukola Saraki as President of the Senate and Ike Ekweremadu from the opposition PDP, as his deputy in a most controversial manner stirred the hornet’s nest and murdered the sleep of the Senate.

Since then, there has been no love lost between Senator Saraki’s leadership of the Senate and the leadership of the ruling party, which felt short-changed by this development. The ensuing conundrum saw the Senate Unity Forum made up of more than 40 of the 58 APC senators trying albeit unsuccessfully to reassert the choice of their party’s leadership but this was met by the

Buhari and Saraki at the praying ground during last year’s eid-fitri celebration...the need for a synergy is sacrosanct

recalcitrance of their “rebellious” colleagues to the utter bewilderment of political observers.

Various attempts to resolve the logjam and allow for a smooth lawmaking process was made even though futile including an olive branch extended to the embattled senate president by allowing a list of party members to fill the remaining principal posts of the Senate Majority Leader, Deputy Leader, Chief Whip and Deputy Chief Whip in the aftermath of his “political coup”.

Saraki declined to read a letter from the party leadership to this regard and instead, went ahead to fill the positions with senators loyal to the rebellion.

During the heat of the controversies, Dino Melaye, an APC senator from Kogi State and an arrowhead of the “Like Minds” senators was reported by a national daily as saying, “We cannot allow anybody in whatever guise to dictate to us what we should do in the senate.

We were elected to serve Nigerians and not to serve the interest of any political party or any political godfather.”

Senator Melaye’s view resonated with a section of the Nigerian public but a wilder perception was that the ruling party should have been allowed a say in the affairs of a legislature, where it has a defining majority.

While the need to allow peace reign in the hallowed chambers was emphasised by senators like Abdullahi Adamu (APC, Nasarawa West); Sola Adeyeye (APC, Osun West) and a handful others, a semblance of sanity prevailed.

But it was peace of the graveyard, as the Code of Conduct Tribunal preferred a 14-count charge for false assets declaration on Saraki, when he held sway as governor of Kwara State between 2003 and 2011. All hell was let loose as many senators saw the CCT charges as politically motivated. “A deliberate ploy by the APC leadership to tarnish the public image of the Senate President,” according to a source close to Senator Saraki.

THISDAY had reported a senator as saying: “The CCT trial of the Senate President is a clear witch-hunt capable of truncating our democratic experience. We in the senate have seen the hand behind the present confusion and we are ready to ensure that this witch-hunt fails as the entire senate is being dragged through another needless crisis.”

Public opinion has been divided over the issue with a section of the public defending

the embattled senate president on the grounds that his ongoing trials at the CCT is a fallout of his estrangement with the APC mainstream led

by Senator Bola Tinubu, a former governor of Lagos State. Another view in the public is that Senator Saraki should account for his deeds as a public servant if found wanting in any capacity.

“Where was the CCT all these while when Senator Saraki became senator after serving as governor of Kwara State? Why should the CCT suddenly wake up to its responsibility on this issue now?” the senator asked.

“We should be careful not to allow draconian measures to prevail in our present dispensation.

The CCT trial of Senator Saraki is indicative of the high-handedness of the executive led by President Buhari and if they succeed in their dubious intentions, a dangerous precedent would have been set.

“The executive should allow the National Assembly conduct its affairs and save Nigerians from this needless crisis,” a senior editor with a major national daily told this correspondent.

The CCT trial of the senate president continues with dozens of senators “escorting” their leader to the trial venue though the number dwindled significantly recently. The hard-stance of the CCT chairman, Danjuma Umar, notwithstanding, this is one trial that has the potential to topple the leadership of Senator Saraki from the exalted seat of the Senate President.

Another recent development that seems to be making a joke of the peace in the Senate was the decision by the Attorney-General of the Federation (AGF) to charge the duo of Saraki and Ekweremadu for criminal forgery of the Senate Standing Rules to pave the way for their controversial election last year. An Abuja High Court had earlier adjudicated on the matter brought before it by Senator Suleiman Hunkuyi (APC, Kaduna) and declared the matter “an internal affair of the Senate” and declined jurisdiction.

The AGF’s action stirred the ire of PDP senators, who through their whip, Senator Emmanuel Bwacha, had resolved to withdraw cooperation for the executive. Though the joint caucus of the APC and Labour Party (LP) passed a vote of confidence on President Buhari before the senate proceeded on a recess last Thursday, the senators appear to have been back to their trenches.

THISDAY sampled a cross-section of opinions in Nasarawa State and beyond with majority

With the Nigerian ship of state embattled by several plagues from the wantonness and avarice of the not-sodistant past – with the National Assembly of Nigeria, a strategic arm of government riddled with many leadership crisis arising from a flagrant breach of confidence by the actions of a few individuals and an executive perceived through its actions as a government on a vindictive mission – there couldn’t be a more auspicious occasion for patriotic intervention from concerned parties in the consensus view that Senator Abdullahi Adamu deploy his tact and influence to return peace to the chambers again.

Senator Adamu, presently the Chairman of the Senate Committee on Agriculture and Rural Development and a prominent member of the strategic Senate Judiciary and Human Rights Committee is viewed across board as an accomplished democrat and a lawmaker per excellence. Apart from basking in the respect and reverence of his colleagues, the former governor of Nasarawa State is seen as a “Bridge Builder” with the capacity to lead in troubled times.

“For us in the senate, Senator Adamu is a major rallying point especially in these times of acrimony and his influence cuts across political divides and this is what the senate needs at the moment. He commands a lot of influence in his party and as the party with the majority as of today in the senate, he could rise to the occasion.

“A lot of us are not comfortable with the developments in the senate and regardless of how anyone perceives the forgery charge against our leaders, the need for peace in the senate cannot be overemphasised,” a PDP senator from Nasarawa State told THISDAY in Akwanga last weekend.

While many Nigerians see the recent reawakening of the forgery case against the two most principal officers of the Senate as another ploy to see them stand down from their positions, the fact remains that a case of forgery is a criminal one if established and the courts should be allowed to determine this rather than the prevailing sentiments.

However, in what appears a respite for the duo of Saraki and Ekweremadu, a Federal High Court in Abuja presided over by Justice Gabriel Kolawole, last week, described the forgery case filed against its presiding officers as “an abuse of court process” and a “decision taken against public interest”.

Against this background, the Senate at the weekend said it had been vindicated by the ruling. The parliament in a statement by its spokesman, Senator Aliyu Sabi Abdullahi, said the ruling further confirmed that the AttorneyGeneral of the Federation (AGF) and Justice Minister, Abubakar Malami, by charging Saraki and Ekweremadu for forgery, was only acting a personal and partisan script and also abusing his position as the nation’s chief law officer.

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PERSPECTIVE

MIDWEEKPOLITICS

Away from the Politics of the Railway Sector Beyond its inherent politics, Gbenga B. Ashafa thinks the time has come to open up the nation’s railway to the private sector

“T

he Nigerian Railway Corporation traces its history to 1898, when the first railroad was constructed by the British colonial government. On October 3, 1912 the Lagos Government Railway and the Baro-Kano Railway were amalgamated, starting nationwide rail service under the name: Government Department of Railways. With the passing of the Nigerian Railway Corporation Act of 1955, the company gained its current name as well as the exclusive legal right to construct and operate rail service in Nigeria.

The rail network reached its maximum extent shortly after Nigerian independence in 1964. Shortly after that, the NRC entered a long period of decline, inept management, and eventually a complete lack of maintenance of rail and locomotive assets. In 1988, NRC declared bankruptcy, and all rail traffic stopped for six months. After that, trains resumed, where the tracks were usable.

By 2002, passenger service was again discontinued altogether. Starting in 2006, plans were made to restore the rail lines and add new locomotives with foreign assistance. In December 2012, the regular scheduled passenger service was restored on the Lagos to Kano line”, Wikepedia states.

I have chosen to start this article with the foregoing quote from Wikepedia to give you all a background to the history of the Nigerian Railway Corporation and by extension, the Nigerian Rail Sector. This quote will also put in proper perspective, the urgent need to open up our railway sector to Public/Private Sector Participation.

In the recent past, Nigeria particularly has learnt that private participation drives effectiveness and accountability in most service/utility sectors. We have learnt that the government cannot carry the burden of delivering every service or utility. Successive governments in Nigeria have over the years burdened themselves with the task of providing power, water, a national carrier, Telecommunications, Railways etc.

What we have experienced till recently has been a steady decline in the functionality of government-run social utility services.

This has led to the change in disposition of government towards extending a hand of partnership to the private sector to come and invest in some of these sectors. Sectors that have benefitted from the Private Sector participation in government business include the telecommunications sector and the Power Sector.

Since the introduction of private sector participation in the telecommunications sector, the service has become more affordable, effective and accessible to every single Nigerian. The telecommunications value chain also employs millions of Nigerians with investment in the sector set at about $32 billion as at the first quarter of 2016. Till the telecoms sector was opened up in 2001, it was an untapped gold mine with unfathomable potential. It is this same quantum of potential that we seek to replicate by introducing the requisite CHANGE into the Nigerian railway sector.

Now, to achieve this change in disposition of any critical sector, there has to be a critical change in the legislation that drives the sector. Legislation forms the fulcrum of human, government and business interrelationship in every society. Hence what we need to and seek to do is to drastically change the legislation that guides the Nigerian rail sector to ensure that we maximize the full, yet, untapped potential inherent therein. For the sake of emphasis, the legislation that guides the Nigerian railway corporation was promulgated in 1955 (61 years ago).

Till now, you will agree with me that the country has focused primarily on road transportation in ferrying persons, goods and services from one point to the other.

Ashafa and Amaechi at the flag-off of the Port Harcourt-Aba rail

What this has led to over the years has been an influx of cars, congested roads, overburdened road infrastructure, loss of lives to accidents and reduction in the productivity of manpower due to unending hours spent in traffic jams.

Government after government has invested even more in road expansion projects. The result as can be observed in the case of Lagos and Abuja has been a gradual occupation of the expanded roads with more cars. This is attributable to rural-urban migration as well as population explosion across the nation. Mass transit remains a very pivotal aspect of the development of any city. It plays a critical role in enhancing productivity of the state by ensuring the movement of the largest number of people from point A to point B within the shortest time possible. It also reflects the quality of life and the value placed on the unit citizen by any responsible government.

You will agree with me that the most effective means of transporting large quantities of humans, goods and services within any country is via rail. This is why whenever the topic of mass transit is discussed rail transportation must be given its pride of place. In the light of the foregoing, when I was appointed the Chairman of the Senate Committee on Land Transport, my humble self and committee members held interactive sessions with the Ministry of Transport and the Nigerian Railway Corporation to listen to the challenges facing the rail sector.

We also at other different fora interfaced with stakeholders in the rail sector to feel their pulse on what needs to change to

Upon our interaction with the stakeholders, we discovered that there is an urgent need to open up the Sector to active private participation, predicated upon both state and private sector participation on a level playing field.

To achieve this, we zeroed-in an urgent need to amend or repeal the existing Nigerian Railway Corporation Act, 1955, which does not contemplate private participation in the rail sector. I am therefore convinced that the time has come for us to open up our railway sector to private sector participation

enable the sector thrive. Our intention was to ascertain how we as legislators could be of assistance to the federal government and fellow Nigerians through creating an enabling environment to revamp the rail sector through the instrumentality of legislation.

Upon our interaction with the stakeholders, we discovered that there is an urgent need to open up the Sector to active private participation, predicated upon both state and private sector participation on a level playing field. To achieve this, we zeroed-in an urgent need to amend or repeal the existing Nigerian Railway Corporation Act, 1955, which does not contemplate private participation in the rail sector. I am therefore convinced that the time has come for us to open up our railway sector to private sector participation.

Just in good time, the Senate at plenary forwarded the Nigerian Railway Corporation Repeal and Reenactment Bill 2015, sponsored by Distinguished Senator Andy Uba to the Senate Committee on Land Transport. Shortly after that, the National Transport commission Bill 2016 was equally forwarded to the Committee on Land Transport.

With regard to the Nigerian Railway Corporation Repeal and Reenactment bill, the Senate Committee on Land Transport successfully held a public hearing, which had in attendance all the important stakeholders in the sector. This culminated in the setting up of a technical committee made up of stakeholders with the legal and technical expertise to further advise the Senate committee on the desirable disposition of the proposed legislation.

On Wednesday, 24th May, 2015, the report of the technical committee was submitted to us and I had the privilege of presenting the said report to His Excellency, the President of the 8th Senate, Dr. Abubakar Bukola Saraki, on the same date.

Based on the recommendation of both the Senate Committee on Land Transport and the Technical Committee on the Nigerian Railway Corporation Act Repeal and Reenactment Bill 2015, it was agreed that due to the extensive recommended changes, the tittle of the Bill should be changed to the Nigerian Railway bill, 2016.

Consideration of the report of the Senate committee on Land Transport with regard to the said Bill has equally commenced before the Senate at plenary. The Third and Final Reading of the Bill, which will include the line-by-line consideration of the committee recommendations with regards to the Bill, will be completed upon the resumption of the Senate from its recess. With regards to the National Transport Commission Bill, preparations are currently in full gear to hold a public hearing as well.

It is very important to note that up until 1993, the British also ran a state model of ownership and operation of the Railways and they faced similar challenges in funding and efficiency of the service.

In a speech titled “Rail growth through

competition: the success of the UK model” delivered by Hon Patrick McLoughlin MP on November 12, 2013 at the European Rail Congress, McLoughling pointed out as follows: “In fact, the Railways Act came into effect on November 5, 1993, breaking up the state-run British Rail, and transforming the face of our railway forever. Nobody back then could have predicted the extraordinary changes that have taken place over the subsequent two decades.”

McLoughling stated further that “Rail travel had dwindled to such an extent that most people thought the private train operators would manage a decline in both passenger and freight traffic. How wrong they were. Privatisation sparked a railway renaissance. Since 1993, passenger journeys have doubled in the UK to a level not seen since the 1920s.

“On a network roughly the same size as 15 years ago, today our railway is running 4,000 more services a day. And rail freight has grown by 60%. Revenue is up more than £3 billion since privatisation, almost all of it due to higher passenger numbers rather than fare rise. Safety levels are at an all-time high. Punctuality is at near record levels.

“And passenger satisfaction is up by 10% over the past decade. None of this would have happened without privatisation, without competition, without franchises investing in better services, without an industry structure promoting accountability and incentivising growth.”

What we seek to achieve by these legislations is to replicate in Nigeria what started in the United Kingdom a bit over 20 years ago and as succinctly captured by the quotes from McLoughlin MP, just above.

This radical departure from the norm will make the sector more attractive to investors, by separating the roles of the operators and the regulator. A whole lot of investors have over time complained about the role of the Nigerian Railway Corporation as both the operator and the regulator in the sector. With the upcoming legislation, we expect to see a completely re-positioned Rail Transport Sector, open to private sector participation.

Once the rail sector is opened up to Private Sector Participation, we would have achieved two principal things, which are Creation of Millions of jobs on one hand and also, we would have successfully solved the challenge of inter/intra city mass transit.

Furthermore, in respect to Public Private Partnerships in the Rail Sector, the World Bank Group’s Public-Private-Partnership in Infrastructure Resource Center has also recommended the shared infrastructure model, which the upcoming legislation proposes when it stated that, “PPPs in railways can bring opportunities for investment, operating efficiency and modern and clean technology. PPP railway projects providing for shared use of rail tracks may lead to efficiency gains and an increased revenue basis for states.”

Having said these, I must thoroughly commend the effort of the Muhammadu Buhari-led APC Government through the Ministry of Transportation headed by Hon Rotimi Amaechi in consolidating the infrastructure relevant to drive our renewed rail sector, the Senate President, who ab initio showed interest in this vital sector by convening the National Assembly Business Environment Roundtable for the first time.

-Ashafa is the Senator representing Lagos East Senatorial District in the Senate and the Chairman, Senate Committee on Land Transport

NOTE: Interested readers should continue in the online edition on www.thisday.com

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FEATURES

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

Giving Hope to the Disabled

Lagos State Governor Akinwunmi Ambode recently spent an evening with disable persons in the state to mark his first anniversary in office. Gboyega Akinsanmi writes that he was not just moved by the scale of neglect they often suffer, but also by their potential to add value despite the odds stacked against them

Ambode with Dr. Waheed Oki; Sugar Band, Mr. Akin Akinloye; Producer/Presenter Lagos Television, Folasade Suleiman and CEO, Loizelle Evening Baps, Ms. Leila Atake, at a forum with the physically challenged persons to mark the governor’s first anniversary in office, at Lagos House, Ikeja...recently

H

e probably never bargained for a life so challenged; neither was he born likewise. But by accident, Olugbenga Kuye lost his limbs to poliomyelitis, a highly infectious disease caused by a virus at the age of three. It was a challenge he never prepared for, but definitely had to cope with and surmount if he should add value to himself and by extension his generation.

For Kuye, walking is debilitating and living full life is perhaps a mirage. Like all disable persons, growing up was not palatable. Accessing quality education was, for him, indeed a daunting challenge. Even after tertiary education, getting a lucrative job often reminded him of his disability. Getting married too, cast deepest palls on the future he had painstakingly nurtured.

Despite his challenges physically, Kuye dared the storms of life and pulled through virtually in all stages. He had set up the Polio Rescue Association (PRA), an anti-polio advocacy group, fighting hard to eradicate the scourge of poliomyelitis in Nigeria. For him, polio still exists as a social menace and a real threat to actualising dream of every Nigerian child.

But Kuye’s anti-polio crusade is now helping to fight the dream-killing virus educatively and methodically. Kuye has been able to achieve this feat with the development of anti-polio animated movie. Also, he had written an anti-polio comic book already translated to other languages to educate and sensitise all Nigerian families across ethno-religious boundaries.

Like Kuye, a good number of disable persons are adding values nationwide not just to themselves, but equally to their communities. In real sector, for instance, some of them are actively involved, creating jobs and rendering services. In informal sector

too, others are truly blooming with enviable records because they refused to submit to their challenges.

Such spirit of resilience has been a source of inspiration for Lagos State Governor, Mr. Akinwunmi Ambode. Before his election, Ambode had been working with persons with diverse conditions or disabilities. So, stirring their hope was one of the rationales he set up La Roche Leadership Foundation, a charity group now independently functioning to identify and rewards talents.

Even though he had formally resigned

Rather than celebrating his first anniversary in office with funfairs, Ambode held a meeting with persons with special conditions. For him, bringing them a message of assurance is sufficient to rekindle their aspiration; refresh their hope for a future and strengthen their minds at a trying time.

He, thus, said that should be the focus of every people-driven government

from the Board of La Roche Leadership Foundation due to a position of trust he is currently holding for Lagos residents, Ambode never forgot persons with disabilities. Ambode never left them in the lurch of their lives.

Instead, the governor brought to the front burner, engaging them and stirring their hope.

Rather than celebrating his first anniversary in office with funfairs, Ambode held a meeting with persons with special conditions. For him, bringing them a message of assurance is sufficient to rekindle their aspiration; refresh their hope for a future and strengthen their minds at a trying time. He, thus, said that should be the focus of every people-driven government.

Previous administrations had truly reckoned with disable persons. Under the Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu administration, for instance, persons living with disabilities were offered rare privilege in the public service and an office was created for them. Under the Babatunde Fashola administration, they were never thrown into the cold; neither were they abandoned.

But the Ambode administration had taken them more seriously. At a recent forum, Ambode explained the real reasons it became important “to celebrate these special people.” He cited diverse socio-economic interventions, which he said, had been provided by people living with diverse conditions or disabilities, not just in the state, but also nationwide.

Besides, the governor has an entirely different perspective “to hosting these special people and engaging them meaningfully.” He said he had a commitment to all Lagos residents, not just “to run an all-inclusive government, but also to emphasise a pledge to give every resident a voice in our administration.” He said that “is the essence of every government.”

Ambode said he had specifically requested to mark his first anniversary with persons living with disabilities “to showcase their

talents,” thereby pleading with the society at large to encourage persons living with disabilities; show them love always and give them deserved support. Our role is not to pity them, but to stir up their potentials and give them hope.”

He thus reeled out the names of special persons, whose potentials had indeed become a source of inspiration. He cited Dr. Waheed Oki, a medical doctor who runs one of the largest clinics in Badagry. He recognised Mrs. Folashade Sulaiman, a presenter with Lagos Television. He mentioned Mr. Akin Akinloye, leader of Sugar Band and a successful lawyer, Leila Atake.

Among others, Ambode noted that persons living disabilities “are people with enviable potentials and talents. These are people who are successful in their own right and in their own career. Dr. Oki, for instance, is from Lagos Island. He is a successful medical doctor. I have personally known him for over 42 years.

We were in the same class in Form One.” He shared his experience living with the special people at different stages of his life.

He said this experience formed one of the reasons he had to take them more seriously.

He said: “I have lived all my life growing up with people with disabilities. That is why it is important to engage them. I just want to honour all of you for your chosen careers and for living it up.

“Allowing your abilities to actually triumph over your disabilities is indeed amazing. I am committed to celebrating the special people to inspire others. With the position I am holding in trust for Lagos residents, I am your partner and all the ones that are out there also, Lagos State will partner with all of you and you will all live your lives to the fullest,” he explained.

Ambode, however, canvassed a change of perception about persons living with disabilities.

21

WEDNESDAY, JULY 6, 2016 • T H I S D AY

FEATURES

He said it was important to correct erroneous impression most people “have about persons living with disabilities. Such impression often result in discrimination and exclusion on a daily basis. It was high time Nigerians began to embrace them as part of the society.

“They are faced with barriers to education and training which limit their job opportunities, leading in turn to poverty, social exclusion and restricted access the basic human rights which we all take for granted. This is unacceptable.

People living with disabilities have a right to live a decent life and enjoy the benefits of good governance and as much as anyone else.

“Physical disability is not inability per se.

So, it should not be seen as an inhibition from achieving something positive in life. This thinking informs the need to celebrate ability in disability. Persons living with disabilities have special skills and talents which if properly harnessed will make a huge difference not only in their lives, but to the society at large,” the governor said.

At this instance, Ambode renewed a commitment “to the welfare of all people without discrimination and exclusion.” He also gave a pledge that his government “owes a duty to protect and provide for every subject and group in the state; especially vulnerable ones.

The government actually exists for people.

Without people, there will not be any government in place.”

He therefore launched a N500 million Support Fund for persons with disabilities.

The fund is in line with section 12 of Lagos Special People’s Law. Consequently, Ambode appealed to individuals, corporate organisations, non-governmental organisations (NGOs) and other stakeholders to support the fund to maximise the disabilities of challenged persons.”

But more importantly, according to him, “as a government, we owe special people huge responsibilities. As citizens of Nigeria, we have onus to give them deserved support.

As Lagos residents, we must embrace persons living with disabilities. Do not discriminate against them. All they require is care, support and opportunity to live a fulfilled and This burden of responsibilities has indeed redefined Ambode’s response to the conditions of the special people in the state. He promised effective implementation of the Lagos State Special Peoples Law, 2011. He directed the registration of all persons living with disabilities in the state, which he said, would ensure effective planning for the need of special persons.

Already, Lagos State Office of Disability Affairs (LASODA) is firmly established. Also, Ambode had pledged to strengthen the office for optimal performance. This pledge is a testament to the reasons the General Manager of LASODA, Dr. Babatunde Awelenge, said Ambode’s approach had truly given disable persons a cause “to smile with policies that ensure their wellbeing.”

Aside, it is a testament to Ambode’s commitment to a government of inclusion. It is on this ground that Awelenge said Lagos State “remains the only state in Nigeria where real inclusive governance by social inclusion is practiced in the running of government.

This is the first time such an event is taking place not just in Lagos State, but in Nigeria

They are faced with barriers to education and training which limit their job opportunities, leading in turn to poverty, social exclusion and restricted access the basic human rights which we all take for granted. This is unacceptable. People living with disabilities have a right to live a decent life and enjoy the benefits of good governance and as much as anyone else

Ambode with Diamond Disable Woman Group during the Democracy Day celebration with the physically challenged persons to mark the governor’s first anniversary in office, at Lagos House, Ikeja… recently

Ambode presenting an award to Mr. Adeosun Olusegun during the Democracy Day celebration with the physically challenged persons to mark the governor’s first anniversary in office, at Lagos House, Ikeja…recently

Ambode presenting an award to Dr. Adebukola Adebayo (middle) and assisted by Mr. Jimoh Adebowale Idris, during the Democracy Day celebration with the physically challenged persons to mark the governor’s first anniversary in office, at Lagos House, Ikeja…recently

as a whole.”

So, according to him, it is a historic event.

It is more historic because Ambode chose to mark his first anniversary with persons with special conditions. He therefore said it was selfless on the part of Ambode “to spend this

moment with persons living with disabilities,” which he said, was the height of recognition the special persons could be accorded.

He added that it “is indeed a great sacrifice on the Ambode administration to spend one of his most important date only and solely with

persons living with disabilities. For us, it is a mark of great honour and privilege” which he said, would trigger positive response to the plight of special people in other climes and redefine people’s perception of those living with disabilities.

22

IMAGES

Anambra State Governor, Chief Willie Obiano (left), and his Special Adviser on Budget, Efficiency & Anambra Internal Revenue Service, Mr. Melie Onyejepu, during the swearing-in of the EXCO members, Government House Awka...recently

T H I S D AY •WEDNESDAY, JULY 6, 2016

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

Director, Dancedeal Training Foundation, Abimbola Obafunwa (left); with the students representing Community Senior Grammar School, Surulere, Onitolo Senior Secondary School; Government Senior College, Surulere and the Lagos State Commissioner for Tourism Arts and Culture, Mr. Folorunso FolarinCoker, during the presentation of prizes to the best three schools in a dancing competition, in Lagos… recently

R-L: President/Chairman, StarTimes Group, Mr. Pang Xinxing; Minister of Information, Arts and Culture, Alhaji Lai Mohammed and Managing Director/CEO, Laura & Lloyd Communications Limited, Laura Oloyede, during the 6th African Digital Television Development seminar, in Beijing, China...recently

L-R: CEO, Marketing Edge, John Ajayi; his wife, Modupe; and General Manager, Marketing, Anietie Udoh, during the Marketing Edge Brands and Advertising Excellence Awards & Annual Summit 2016 with the theme: ‘Brand Building in a Digital Age; Challenges in a Development Market’ at the Civic Centre, Victoria Island, Lagos...recently

L-R: Permanent Secretary, Lagos State Ministry of Education, Mr. Adesina Odeyemi; presenting an award to Boluwatife Oladeinde, Faderin Ayomikun and Jerry Onwuhara, on behalf of their school, Caleb International School, Ketu, during the 2016 edition of Lagos festival of choral and classical music for public and private schools, at Alausa, Ikeja...recently

L-R: Director General, Nigerian-British Chamber of Commerce, Mrs. Joyce Akpata; Patron NBCC, Chief Michael Olawale-Cole; Chairman & CEO, Premier Lotto, Chief Kessington Adebukunola Adebutu; President & Chairman of Council, Prince Dapo Adelegan; and a former President & Patron NBCC, Prince Prince Adeyemi Adefulu, when NBCC paid a courtesy visit to Premier Lotto, in Lagos...recently

L-R: Head, Power Procurement and Power Contract, Nigerian Bulk Electricity Trading Plc (NBET), Mr. Omotoyo Hassan; Sector Lead, Solar and Access Advisory Power Team, Office of the Vice-President, Mrs. Lolade Abiola; Project Technical Manager, Pan Africa Solar, Mr. Olumide Sanya; Chief Executive Officer (CEO), Pan Africa Solar, Mr. Marcus Heal; and acting Chief Executive Officer (CEO), NBET, Mr. Waziri Bintube, during the signing of the first solar Power Purchase Agreement (PPA) between Pan Africa Solar and NBET for a 75MW Solar Power Plant in Abuja...recently nenock reuben

L-R: Head of Communication and Media, Union Bank, Omotola Oyebanjo; Principal Consultant, L & D Consulting, Mr Uche Onyemobi; CEO Fusion Lifestyle Ltd., Dr Samiah Oyekan-Ahmed; and Transformation Director, Union Bank, Joe Mbulu, at the maiden edition of Union Bank’s innovative leadership and networking series, ‘Engage’ in Abuja...recently

23

WEDNESDAY, JULY 6 2016, • T H I S D AY

Group Business Editor Chika Amanze-Nwachuku Email chika.amanzenwachukwu@thisdaylive.com 08057161321, 08033294157

BUSINESSWORLD NIBOR OVERNIGHT 1-MONTH

R A T E S

A S

NIBOR

4.4167% 10.8248%

3-MONTH 6-MONTH

113.6206% 15.2903%

NITTY 1-MONTH 2-MONTH 3-MONTH

A T

J U L Y 7.7168% 7.9518% 9.7740

1 ,

6-MONTH 9-MONTH 12-MONTH

2 0 1 6

10.3013% 11.0742% 13.3762%

EXCHANGE RATE N282.25/1US DOLLAR* *AS AT LAST FRIDAY

Quick Takes FirstBank Partners Asian Banker

FOR EFFECTIVE PRICING

L-R: Managing Director, Economic Associates, Dr. Ayo Teriba; Supply Manager, Oando Plc, Mr. Cole Onitiri; President, Lagos Chamber of Commerce and lndustry, Chief Mrs. Nike Akande; Executive Director, Access Bank Plc, Mr. Roosevelt Ogbonna and Chairman, lntegrated Oil and Gas Ltd, Capt Emmanuel lhenacho at the 2016 Second Business Clinic on Petroleum Product Pricing and Forex Kiberalisation in Lagos…recently abiodun ajala

DMO’s Plan to Raise N940bn from Domestic Market Suffers Setback Eromosele Abiodun The devaluation of the naira following the flexible exchange rate regime by the Central bank of Nigeria (CBN) and the plan to repay N560billion to bondholders will impede the Debt Management Office (DMO)’s plan to raise the N940 billion net domestic borrowing requirements in the 2016 budget, THISDAY finding has revealed.

The DMO on Monday issued its provisional issuance calendar for third quarter of 2016 where it plans to raise between N305billion ($1.08 billion) and N405billion ($1.43 billion) over the quarter.

Analysis of the provisional issuance calendar showed that the amount it plans to raise in Q3 marks a pick-up from Q2 when it raised N265billion.

ECONOMY However, it has to repay N560billion to bondholders on the maturity of the Aug ‘16s and meet the N940billion net domestic borrowing requirement in the 2016 budget, which requires fine-tuning as a result of the naira devaluation.

Analysts believe the increase in supply, together with rising inflation point to yield widening, adding that the Pension Fund Administrators (PFAs) will again to be prominent buyers at the auctions.

“Data from National Pension Commission (PenCom) for March show their holdings of the Federal Government of Nigeria (FGN) bonds at N3.24trillion ($11.45billion), equivalent to 59.3 per cent of their assets under management (AUM). Additionally, they

held N450billion in Nigerian Treasury Bills (NTBs) and N150billion in state government bonds.

“As for offshore buyers, we could see some interest from investors with risk appetite who convert funds in the lengthy repatriation process into buying orders. The same process has reportedly been seen with equities. The DMO is launching a new five-year benchmark this month. Its other offerings are the re-openings of the ten-year (Jan ‘26) and the 20-year (Jan ’36) benchmarks, “said analysts at FBN Quest.

The Director General of DMO, Dr. Abraham Nwankwo had in a chat with newsmen recently said the DMO was committed to making sure that Nigeria raises money to fund the 2016 budget deficit from appropriate sources and

through appropriate mix during the fiscal year to make sure that capital projects are funded.

Nwankwo stressed that the Nigerian debt level was highly sustainable, noting that the nation still had a lot of idle potential, which the administration is striving to harness for effective growth of the economy.

He disclosed that while comparative tax revenue to Gross Domestic Product (GDP) ratio of Nigeria is less than 7.0 per cent, its peer group has a ratio of 18 per cent.

He therefore stressed the need to widen the tax net to generate more revenue for the government.

“Nigeria’s debt to GDP ratio is 13 per cent, compared to Continued on page 24

Stock Market Investors Count Gains Despite Bear Run Goddy Egene Some investors in the Nigerian stock market have been counting their gains since the beginning of the year despite the bearish trend that persisted for most past of first half of the year to June 30, 2016. The adverse economic climate characterised by declining oil prices, rising inflation, declining capacity utilisation and uncertainties around devaluation of the naira and the delay in the 2016 budget put the stock market under the strong grip of the bears in the first six months.

A late rally in June as a result of new Central Bank of Nigeria

CAPITAL MARKET

(CBN) flexible foreign exchange policy made the market to record a marginal gain of 3.2 per cent in the first six months of the year.

However, THISDAY checks showed that the bear run notwithstanding, investors in some of companies had a bountiful harvest in the first half of the year, counting gains as high as over 100 per cent.

Some investors, who invested at the beginning of the year recorded significant positive gains that are above inflation rate, showing positive returns on investments.

For instance, Dangote Flour Mills Plc fetched investors a

return of 325 per cent between January and June 2016. The equity rose from below N1.00 to close at N4.71 per share.

Etranzact Plc fetched investors a return of about 97.3 per cent, while United Capital Plc recorded a gain of 89.3 per cent to put smiles on the faces of investors despite the challenging environment. A.G Leventis Nigeria Plc posted 64.5 per cent growth.

Seplat Petroleum Development Company Plc recorded a growth of 62.5 per cent, while NEM Insurance Plc appreciated by 50 per cent.

Investors in Union Dicon Salt (UDS) Plc garnered 39.6 per cent as the company consolidated its diversification

to the agriculture.

UDS recently became the core investor in the $100 million Alape Staple Crop Processing Zone (SCPZ) in Kogi State to replace Cargill, a United States based agro-industrial giant.

Chuka Mordi of UDS had said: “It is a remarkable opportunity to develop the agribusiness space in Nigeria from a fully indigenous perspective. We would accelerate the progress on the Kogi State project in the next few months.

We are ready to move very quickly to site.”

United Bank for Africa Plc also put smiles on the faces Continued on page 24

In line with its commitment to the realisation of a sustainable and competitive retail banking environment in West Africa, First Bank of Nigeria Limited recently went into a partnership with the Asian Banker Magazine to host the third West Africa International Banking Convention 2016.

The event with the theme: “Building a Sustainable and Competitive Retail Banking Infrastructure for West Africa,” took place in Lagos.

Over 100 senior executives and supporting executives in retail, technology, innovation, operations, strategy and planning attended the event from West Africa and other regions’ retail banking and payments industries.

The West Africa International Retail Banking Dialogue 2016, the third in the series was a convergence of global advisory panel contributing policies and insights into the experiences of leading decision makers in West Africa.

In his address, the Deputy Managing Director, FirstBank of Nigeria Limited, Mr. Gbenga Shobo said: “the retail banking business is evolving rapidly as a result of heightening competition, increased regulation and changing customer expectations. In view of the large numbers of the unbanked population in West Africa, we will continue to lead the discourse that will lead to new ways of thinking and innovation in bank products and services that will help financial institutions in the region to achieve better service delivery whilst improving their bottom-line.”

He also stated that the effectiveness of FirstBank’s robust retail banking strategy was responsible for its domination of the retail space with a sizeable market share of retail customer deposits at the end of 2015 financial year.

Report Shows New Procurement Systems

The World Bank’s new procurement framework which became effective on July 1, 2016 is aimed at helping countries make the best use of their public spending.

The new framework will also enhance the strategic role of procurement in development effectiveness.

“The new Procurement Framework reflects the views, knowledge, and expertise of a wide range of stakeholders from across the globe. The Bank can now offer a more modern and nimble procurement system to help promote sustainable development,” World Bank Vice President for Operations Policy and Country Services, Hart Schafer said in a report.

The new procurement framework will allow the World Bank to better respond to the needs of client countries, while preserving robust procurement standards throughout Bank-supported projects. It provides an expanded range of procurement tools to enable a better fit for varying country contexts and client needs.

“With this modernisation of the procurement system, the Bank looks forward to working together with its partner countries to strengthen efficiency in public spending and to strengthen procurement systems around the world. This will help assure that public resources are being well used, and countries can better deliver critical services such as education, health, and infrastructure,” Senior Director of the Governance Global Practice, Deborah Wetzel said.

Chivita Wins Award

Chivita 100% fruit juice from the stable of Chi Limited was recently adjudged the most outstanding juice brand in the country at the recent Marketing Edge Brands and Advertising Excellence awards in Lagos.

The fruit juice also won the award because of its consistency in the market, creativity and value as well as the top quality packaging of the juice that allows for the best delivery.

Responding on behalf of Chi Limited, the company’s managing director, Mr. Deepanjan Roy, expressed gratitude to the organisers of the event for creating an excellent platform to recognise outstanding brands which have remained consistent in satisfying consumers need. “The award for Chivita 100% as the Outstanding Fruit Juice Brand only reaffirms Chivita 100% fruit juice’s position as the undisputable leader in the fruit juice category in terms

“There is no need to leave an impression that any bank is distressed. No deposit is at risk” CBN Governor,

Godwin Emefiele

24

WEDNESDAY, JULY 6 2016, • T H I S D AY

BUSINESSWORLD DMO’S PLAN TO RAISE N940BN FROM DOMESTIC MARKET SUFFERS SETBACK the 56 per cent of peer group.

So in that essence, our debt is still very sustainable. In this respect, I am encouraging all Nigerians to continue to make sure that they pay their taxes fully as and when due because our tax revenue to GDP ratio is relatively low compared to countries in our peer group,” he said.

He said full payment of taxes by individuals and corporate bodies would enhance debt and overall economic sustainability of the country.

Speaking on the economic recession, which he said was caused mainly by unfavourable structural change in the fall of oil prices globally, Nwankwo said the Nigerian government was addressing the challenge through diversified, self-sustaining growth in agriculture and agro processing, solid minerals, manufacturing and information communication technology (ICT).

According to him, in the medium to long term, debt sustainability in Nigeria hinges on the overall sustainability of the economy, and the overall economic sustainability hinges on diversifying the economy in a sustainable manner.

“That is what the government is doing in agriculture, solid minerals, ICT and manufacturing.

REPORT: BANKS MAY FACE CHALLENGE SERVICING DOLLAR OBLIGATIONS of investors, delivering 39 per cent returns in the first half of the year. Other stocks that ended the half year with positive returns on investments included: Neimeth International Pharmaceuticals Plc (33.7 per cent); Eterna Plc (30.2 per cent); African Prudential Registrars Plc 929.3 per cent); Total Nigeria Plc (29.2 per cent); DN Meyer Plc (28.5 per cent); GTBank Plc (27.9 per cent); Champion Breweries Plc (26.1 per cent); International Breweries Plc, Academy Press Plc ( 25 per cent apiece) and Julius Berger Nigeria Plc (21.2 per cent).

Group Business Editor

Chika Amanze-Nwachuku Maritime Editor

NEWS

CBN Reiterates Conditions for ‘Blacklisting’ Erring Bank Worker Obinna Chima

The Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) has reiterated that employee(s) in any financial institutions under its regulation that was terminated, dismissed or convicted on the grounds of fraud, forgery and dishonesty would be blacklisted from taking up any other responsibility in the industry.

It stressed that blacklisting is in furtherance to the requirements and provisions of Section 48, subsection 4 of Banks and Other Financial Institutions Act (BOFIA) CAP B3, LFN 2004 which states: “Any person whose appointment with a bank has been terminated or who has been dismissed for reasons of fraud, dishonesty or convicted for an offence involving dishonesty or fraud shall not be employed by any bank in Nigeria.”

But, the central bank revealed that it observed that details of cases rendered in the related returns were no longer limited to cases of fraud and forgeries as originally intended, “but had been erroneously extended to include cases such as lateness to work, abandonment of duty, etc.”

“The inclusion of these other cases negates the intent and basis for blacklisting,” it stated.

The central bank gave the warning in its “Review of Operational Guidelines for Blacklisting,” to the industry, signed by its Director, Banking Supervision, Mrs. Tokunbo Martins, a copy of which was posted on its website.

However, the banking sector regulator stated that the reviewed guidelines was as a result of the spate of petitions for the reversal of blacklisted staff by banks due to failure to comply with the process of investigation and granting of fair hearing to erring staff before forwarding their names for blacklisting.

“Trust is the cornerstone upon which banking business is conducted. Any act of malfeasance taken by a bank or its staff that would erode the trust

of the public is therefore of prime concern to the regulators and other stakeholders, “Due to the nature of banking operations, banks are frequent targets for frauds from within and outside the system. Despite the various risk management policies and internal control processes/ procedures that have been put in place to mitigate against such incidents, the occurrence and attempts of fraud have not been abated in the banking system as evidenced by the monthly returns

on fraud and forgeries submitted by the banks to the CBN. “Risk management systems and processes are only as good as the people that operate them, it is therefore imperative that only persons of integrity and proven character are employed and retained in the financial industry,” it added.

Thus the CBN revealed that it maintains a register called the “blackbook,” containing names and details of such staff that were dismissed or terminated, in line

with Section 48 (4) of BOFIA 2004.

Every individual whose name is listed in the “blackbook” is barred from holding any employment within the financial system in Nigeria.

In order for someone to be blacklisted, “A disciplinary committee must have conducted a thorough investigation. The disciplinary committee must have established that the staff involved had committed an act of fraud and dishonesty.

FACTS AND FIGURES

L-R: Non Executive Director, Mr Adeyinka Olatokunbo Asekun; Non Executive Director, Mr Tony Egbuna; Chairman, Mr Felix Ohiwerei, and Founder and Chief Executive Officer, Mr. Valentine Obi, at the 12th eTranzact International PLC Annual General meeting in Lagos... recently

Azudialu-Obiejesi Urges Operators to Showcase Potential in Oil and Gas Industry Ejiofor Alike The Group Managing Director of Nestoil Limited, Dr. Ernest Azudialu-Obiejesi, has urged players in the Nigeria’s oil and gas sector to showcase the potential in the sector to investors.

Speaking at the 2016 edition of the Business Day-Oval Energy Oil and Gas Roundtable and Awards held recently in Lagos, Azudialu-Obiejesi said it was the duty of the players in the industry to promote the potential in the sector.

“As players in this subsector of the economy, we have a duty to highlight its potential to the world. We all

know that Nigeria is currently undergoing a process of rebirth that will bring prosperity to everyone. As Nigerians, we have a responsibility to help the world understand this and showcase the opportunities that come with the transformation,” he explained.

He noted that Nestoil has contributed significantly to the development of the oil and gas industry in Nigeria.

According to him, the company is founded on its capacity to execute and deliver projects in any terrain and location enabled by its effective community relations and stakeholders’ engagement strategy.

In recognition of its contri-

butions in the industry, the company emerged as the ‘Oil Service Project Manager Company of the Year’, beating other nominees in the award category to the coveted award.

While expressing his appreciation for the award Azudialu-Obiejesi, who was represented by the company’s Group Chief Operating Officer (GCOO), Dr. Chukwueloka Umeh described the award as “a recognition that will inspire Nestoil Limited and its sister companies to sustain their outstanding performance and innovation.”

Azudialu-Obiejesi noted that Nestoil is a part of the Obijackson Group which has been operating in Nigeria for

over three decades.

“The nature of our operations has established us as a dependable partner in Nigeria’s quest for national development and economic empowerment.

In providing our services which include pressure vessel fabrication, civil and road construction, pipeline construction, dredging and marine logistic services, dry-docking, aviation services, oil and gas exploration and production as well as power generation, we have consistently demonstrated commitment to the growth of the Nigerian nation,” he explained.

As the indigenous leader in pipeline construction, the company is acknowledged for

execution of some landmark projects in Nigeria.

These include construction of the Edjeba Sewage Treatment Plan in Warri, construction of the OB3 (Obiafu/Obrikom to Oben) 48-inch diameter gas pipeline for the Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation (NNPC), construction of the 24-inch diameter Nember-Cawthorne Channel Trunckline (NCTL) for Shell Petroleum Development Company (SPDC), construction and installation of the 2.5km Escravos River Cross as part of the OML 42 oil export pipeline network construction for the Nigerian Petroleum Development Company (NPDC).

John Iwori

AgriBusiness/Industry Editor Comms/e-Business Editor

Security Agents Nab Two Cable Vandals in Apapa

Capital Market Editor

Ejiofor Alike

Crusoe Osagie Emma Okonji

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 (AgricBusiness)

Two men, suspected to be members of a twelve-man syndicate that specialises in vandalism and theft of public electricity materials have been apprehended by security agents in Apapa.

A statement by the Head, Corporate Communications of Eko Electricity Distribution Company, Mr. Godwin Idemudia in Lagos said luck ran out of the men when they

were trying to load about 12 meters of stolen underground armoured cable into their vehicle.

According to the statement, the vandalised HV underground armoured cable was from vanilla 11kv feeder radiating from Apapa injection sub-station.

The statement stated that the suspected vandals were apprehended at about three o’clock in the morning by security men attached to A-Z

Petroleum Company, Apapa.

The two suspected cable thieves were said to have immediately taken to their heels on sighting the security men but the swift response of the security men who gave them a hot chase thwarted their effort at escaping.

The statement said the two suspects were first taken to Apapa Railway Police Station before they were later transferred to Ebute Metta Area Command in railway

compound.

The company said investigations into the matter were ongoing while the two suspects and their other accomplices would be charged to court as soon as investigations were concluded.

Idemudia said the arrest of the two suspects underscored the need for all communities to keep a vigilant watch on electricity facilities in their areas.

The incident, he further stated also proved that the belief in some quarters that staff of electricity distribution companies were the ones engaging in vandalism and theft of electricity equipment was wrong and far from the truth.

According to him, none of the people usually caught for the criminal act was ever found to be an employee of EKEDC or that of any distribution company.

25

WEDNESDAY, JULY 6 2016, • T H I S D AY

BUSINESSWORLD

EQUITIES WATCH

As Oando Turns the Corner

After a dismal two years, Oando Plc turned the corner with a 4.1% rise in net profit in the first quarter of 2016, writes Goddy Egene

Shareholders, directors and other stakeholders of Oando Plc will not forget 2014 financial year in a hurry. That was the year the company recorded a loss of about N184 billion. Although most peers of Oando Plc had a challenging year, the company’s situation was particularly affected by oil price and exchange rate volatility and high interest payments.

However, the directors assured the shareholders, who did not get any dividend as a result of the loss that they were working hard to improve the fortunes of the company. Given the 2015 full year and 2016 first quarter results released last week, hopes that shareholders would soon begin to receive dividends, have risen.

Financial results In line with promise to improve its performance going forward, Oando recorded lower loss of N49.7 billion for the year ended December 31, 2015, compared with N145.6 billion in 2014. An analysis of the results showed that the company ended the year with a revenue of N161 billion in 2015, up from N92.9 billion. Administrative expenses was reduced from N161 billion to N74 billion. Net finance cost rose from N36.5 billion to N47.5 billion. Consequently, Oando Plc ended the year with a loss of N49.7 billion.

However, the company returned to profitability in Q1 of 2016. According to the Q1 unaudited results, also released last week, Oando Plc recorded a revenue of N27.7 billion, down from N30.6 billion in the corresponding period of 2015. Cost of sales remained high at N22.7 billion, compared to N16.8 billion in 2915. But administrative expenses fell from N16.5 billion to N15.6 billion. Net finance cost stood at N12.6 billion in 2016 as against N12 billion in 2015.

Oando had a tax credit of N4.7 billion, compared with a tax payment of N1.0 billion in 2015. The integrated energy firm ended the quarter with a net profit of N4.1 billion in 2016, compared with a loss of N20.9 billion.

CEO explains performance Explaining the 2015 performance, Group Chief Executive of Oando, Mr. Wale Tinubu

said: “2015 remained a turbulent year for the global oil and gas industry as traditional energy business operations had to be altered to enable industry players survive this new reality, utilising cost optimisation systems, increased operational efficiency as well as downscaled capex budgets.

This re-evaluation of our business has resulted in the execution of strategic initiatives, which we are confident will return our business to profitability in the short-term in 2016. As the global economy returns to normalcy we remain committed in our drive to building platforms for long term sustained value creating businesses.”

According to him, in spite of the numerous challenges, Oando made significant achievements across the value chain in 2015.

“Oando Energy Resource (OER) increased its total production to 20 million barrels of oil equivalent (mmboe) in the period compared with 9.1 mmboe in 2014. The increase between the annual periods was primarily from the acquisition of OMLs 60 – 63 in H2 2014, as well as the commencement of production from the Qua-Iboe field in Q1 2015,” he said.

Tinubu disclosed that OER also successfully realised a cash inflow of $234 million by resetting its crude oil hedge from the previously hedged average of $95.35 per barrel to a new price of $65.00 per barrel on 10,615bbls/day till July 2017 and an additional 1,553 bbls/day until January 2019.

The proceeds of the hedge reset along with cash in hand, he said, were used to pay down substantial portion of the company’s debt.

Also by December 2015, Oando Gas & Power (OGP) had completed 87 per cent of the Greater Lagos Phase 4 pipeline project which runs from Ijora to Bonny Camp in Lagos state.

“The Midstream subsidiary also commenced an 8.5km pipeline expansion project for the Central Horizon Gas Company, to increase CHGC’s capacity to 70mmscf/day. Oando Downstream successfully concluded tie-ins to third party terminals via a 2km Horizontal Directional Drilled pipeline. The jetty will alleviate delays associated with product delivery into the Apapa, reduce long term cost of operations,

as well as provide possible revenue streams from excess capacity. In 2015, the marketing arm completed upgrading of its LPG plants, the Apapa LPG plant capacity was upgraded from 15mt/day to 30mt/day, representing a 100 per cent increment, while the Benin plant was upgraded to include best in industry safety standards,” Tinubu said.

Progress in Q1 The Oando boss said that in the company commenced 2016 on a restoration path by examining its business model and introducing a 6-step corporate initiative strategy to restore its business to profitability by deleveraging the business and optimising balance sheet through the restructuring of net debt, asset disposal and/ or injection of $350 million of capital.

“This first quarter of 2016 demonstrates our dedication to return our business to profitability by the end of the 2016. We are succeeding in our corporate initiatives which are today’s driving forces for our business in this new global reality of economic restraint and lower oil prices in our industry. As a group we have placed our focus on growing our dollar earning upstream higher margin and export trading businesses.

We continue to count on the consistency of our retail and midstream interest and look forward to a rewarding year, where we solidify our aspirations and return to profitability,” he said.

Operations update Tinubu said Oando Plc successfully restructured its debt through a N94.6 billion Medium Term Note with lower capital costs of 15 per cent and a renewed five-year tenor.

OER completed its 2015 year-end summary of reserves recording a six per cent growth in 2P net reserves from 420.3 mmboe to 445.3 mmboe, largely due to the recognition of reserves related with producible oil and gas volumes from the operator provided work programme up to the economic limit of the producing fields. 2C Resources likewise increased by 70 per cent from 122mmboe to 208mmboe.

Tinubu said that in response to the current

challenging environment the company took steps to ensure it is financially efficient and as such it announced plans to delist OER from the Toronto Stock Exchange (TSX).

According to him, the company has not realised any aggregate returns or fresh capital from the cost of listing the business and running its operations in Canada.

“This along with other financially prudent steps has helped us improve our general and administrative costs from $3.70/boe in Q1 2015 to $3.19/boe in Q1 2016. OGP successfully closes the divestment of the Akute IPP, a 12.15MW power station servicing the Lagos State Water Corporation, this is a testament of our legacy of building successful pipeline businesses, generating returns and transferring on operatorship, likewise we have also signed a term sheet with a reputable player for the divestment of the Alausa IPP which services the Lagos State Secretariat. Both transactions attest to and is an apparent success of our gas development capacity in Lagos State,” he said.

According to him, in the first quarter, OGP signed a development agreement with TVER/ Micro LNG to develop a 20 mmscf/d Mini LNG plant in Ajaokuta, Kogi State, which will service a 1,000km radius in the Northern region of Nigeria.

“We continue to pursue our goal of revolutionising gas supply in the country and remain committed to powering up Nigeria, the facility is expected to commence operations in Q2 2017. Oando Downstream agreed on the terms for the sale of a 60 per cent share of the Oando downstream business to Vitol, the world’s largest commodities trader and Helios Investments Partners, a premier West African focused private equity firm. This alliance serves as a testament of Oando’s legacy of building a successful downstream giant and the partnership will rejuvenate the Nigerian downstream sector through operational efficiencies and economies of scale, thereby serving the Nigerian market even better,” he said.

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INTERVIEW

Onwuchekwa: FG Should Implement Leasing Act to Attract FDI In this interview with Eromosele Abiodun, Chairman, Equipment Leasing Association of Nigeria, Mr. Chuka Onwuchekwa called on the federal government to urgently implement the Equipment Leasing Act recently passed into law. He also spoke on other developments in the Nigerian economy. Excerpts:

Onwuchekwa

The economic situation in the country is having a negative impact on businesses.

I will like to start by asking you to take a look at the economy in the last one year and tell us how what is happening has affected the leasing industry.

I am happy that you are bringing up this issue because everybody knows what has been happening in the economy from the price of crude oil, which everybody is very much aware because of our dependent on that. We all know the effect in terms of the purchasing power of people and the effect on our own industry in the sense that even the people that we provide our services to you are finding things hard. As you know, The Equipment Leasing Association of Nigeria (ELAN), as a body, is an association that was established since 1982.

It is an organisation that is in charge of all the operators in the industry. Not just the leasing companies but we also have vendors, banks and even professional bodies as members of the association. So for members of the association, what has been happening in the economy has affected our business. Depending on how

you look at it. In terms of purchasing power, people don’t have the resources that help our customers in terms of meeting obligation and paying their rentals. On the other side of it, it also creates opportunity because when people don’t have the cash to acquire assets like what we are used to in this part of the world they begin to look at opportunity to lease. So, depending on how you are looking at. It creates opportunity but the issue is that even when they lease, is the economy buoyant enough for them to be able to meet their obligation? And because of what is happening, it also affected all the players in the banks. The implication is that funding is scares because funding is the major implement for leasing companies to do their business and because of the way our economy is we don’t have long term funding and leasing is supposed to be long term financing instruments. So when you look at it, it is really affecting the industry. If you want to bring it down, there are some of our members in the past who have been able to attract foreign direct investment from development financing institution, abroad. Those

development financing institution, who brought in funds to fund in the leasing companies, were finding it very difficult to get their money out because of scarcity of foreign exchange. The way it works is that the development financing institution that are giving money to the leasing company sometime depending on the structure, the money usually hedged. Hedging means that the local company that is taking the funds is not carrying foreign exchange risk. The implication is that when the money matures for repayment, because it is hedge, there is what they call certificate of capital importation which is issued through Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN). It is at the central bank that it was issued and because the money came through CBN, the CBN is supposed to provide the funding for repatriation. Some of our members are finding it very difficult to get those funds and it has also affected the ability of the development financing institutions to bring in more money. You can see it affects the issue of capital flow. I believe that looking at it that way, like every other player in the economy, what is happening has affected the

operations of our business.

You talked about scarcity of foreign exchange, now that we a floating exchange market or the flexible foreign exchange regime are your members still finding it difficult to attract the development financing you talked about?

There was a statement I made about funding coming into the country that is hedged. For the ones that were hedged, no problem because the exchange rate risk is already taking care of but the problem is that because during the period where the foreign exchange is scarce, you know all of us are operating in the environment and we know what has been happening in terms of availability. There are so many repayment that were trapped and once the payment is due and it’s not being paid, the hedging expires.

That means that those of our members that have backlog to payback now will suffer a lot of huge losses because money that you were supposed to be paying back at N199/$ you are now going to be paying back at N280 to N282, based on the floating exchange rate regime

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INTERVIEW

ONWUCHEKWA: FG SHOULD IMPLEMENT LEASING ACT TO ATTRACT FDI that you mentioned. So it has a lot of impact.

As far as what is happening is concern, it is a major challenge for the operators, currently.

The equipment leasing industry does not contribute a huge percentage to the nation’s gross domestic products (GDP) currently. What do you think the government can do to place the industry at the same level with say banking and entertainment industry?

Your observation is correct. In fact the board meeting we had recently, those were some of the things we were discussing. Sometime last year we got a leasing act passed and it became law last year and we are still grappling trying to put all the institutional frame work. One of the things that we are supposed to put in place is the registration authority as it is in the act. The government is settling down trying to work with ELAN to bring all the stakeholders that are supposed to be members of the association authority. Once that is in place, we will begin to see some of the benefits that were envisaged by trying to put that act in place. It will put all the institutional framework in place, we will see the huge benefits. But a lot of infrastructure must be put in place to be able to drive it. One of the benefits of leasing is that creates what I may call, “opportunities for people who don’t have the opportunity to acquire to certain assets for economy activity to have that.” When that happens, it creates employments. For example, when you are able to acquire certain machines, the assets to your productive activity, it means that you will have to employ more people. One of the things that the act is supposed to be doing is to sanitize what has been happening before now which means that a lot of people will be engaging in the business and some institution will be able to invest in the leasing because they will feel they are protected by the law.

Like the DFIs I mentioned before, before now many of them were in China because they say there’s no legal frame work for that. With what has happened one of the things we are still trying to work with government in terms of advocacy programme is for them to begin to see the need to partner ELAN to put in place some of those institutional frame work or some of the things that will help to deepen the practice of lease in Nigeria. For example, the pension funds are not allowed to invest in the activities of Lessors in providing the funding for leasing activities. But if government can look at leasing as a way of improving the economic activities in the country and as a way of creating employment, and as a way of empowering a lot of people because there are so many people in the past that ordinary wouldn’t have been able to have certain types of equipment. The Small and Medium Scale Enterprises (SMEs) and those at the lower end of the ladder who do not have access to finance will get what they want to do their business.

There are people before now through leasing they have been able to get an asset as tiny as small generator to power their refrigerator to sell ice blocks. If a lot of funds is made available through some of this institutional frame work that I mentioned, it will help to expand the leasing activity which also have direct effect in the terms of the economic activity.

As an organisation you have achieved something in the past, you became the president at some point. Can you tell us what you met on ground, what you have achieved and where you want to take your organisation before your term expires?

Well one thing that we can talk about or I should say the current board does not like talking about what we have achieved. It’s like a marathon and there were people who were there before who have been working, who handed over the baton to us, and now continuing and when we leave, we are also going to hand over to others. I don’t want to talk about what we have achieved this or that because some people must have made input for which we continued. But suffix it to say that it was also during our tenure that we are able to get the leasing act passed into law. We were able to put the law in place last year and it’s also during our tenure that we are able to get government interest more than what we used to do. We

have a window where they can borrow from each other.

Onwuchekwa

are trying to partner government in so many ways and we are engaging the authorities in this regard and because of the contact some of our board members have been able to bear, we have been able to be closer to them and they are listening and we are working with them towards achieving some of the objective.

For example, the National Automotive Council (NAC), we are working with them directly and it is through our efforts to engage them so that we can see how we can collaborate to ensure that we support the government initiative in terms of made in Nigeria car, affordability of those from the leasing point of view. We have also been able to increase the memberships of the association, trying to make sure that we get more members. In terms of advocacy,

One of the things that the act is supposed to be doing is to sanitize what has been happening before now which means that a lot of people will be engaging in the business and some institution will be able to invest in the leasing because they will feel they are protected by the law

I think we have also done very well. I believe that we still have a lot of work to do. We are still trying to work with government with a view to engaging them for the benefit of our members. We want them to see what we are doing, the benefit of leasing and to see how we can work together for the overall interest of the economy because if there are lots of activities in the leasing subsector, it will also have direct effect In terms of the impact, job creation, and the warfare of the citizens. Our members have also contributed a lot in the terms of the taxes they pay to the government.

One of the issues we are trying to deal with now is the issue of double taxation like Value Added Tax (VAT) and withholding tax issues.

We are currently discussing with the Federal Inland Revenue Service (FIRS) to see how we can resolve the matter.

Developments in the interbank market show that it may be difficult to sustain liquidity to attract assets into business like yours because banks may have no other option than to increase rates for borrowers. If this happens what will be your advice to your members?

Like I said earlier, for our members, short term funding is not the way out for us. We are more interested in long term funding because leasing is a long term funding business. We have always advice to our member if possible not to go through the interbank window to borrow because it is a short term funding mechanism. We are more interested in longer tenured mechanism that will help our members to do their business because a proper leasing transaction should not be less than between one to five years. That way it is easier because the longer it takes, the more it is easier for people to make instalment payments. So my advice to our members is not to begin to patronise interbank because that mechanism is meant for banks to do their business-they own the window. Leasing companies do not

If you will agree with me, leasing companies have not effectively tapped into the opportunities available in the states. State governments complain of low revenue but spend huge sum of money buying whatever they need. What is ELAN doing to drive this segment of the market?

Good question. ELAN, as a body has a programme and one of the things that we had done in the past, which we are still doing is how to engage the state government, to beginning to be part of the programme. There was a time we wanted to do a programme in the past where we wanted all the government agencies that are managing their transporting sites to be part of one of our conferences to be part of what we are doing. We are trying to bring them just to exposes them to what we do for them to be able to see the benefits of leasing. That does not mean that there are not some state governments that have done leasing in the past. I know some of our members who have also done a lot of equipment transaction with some state governments. The awareness is there. Even the SMEs have benefited from leasing companies. I also know one of our members that was working with Lagos State Government in providing lease financing to almost up to 20, 000 workers partnering Lagos state government. It is not that government is not aware but like you said there is need for better awareness. One of the things we are doing through our advocacy programme is to make them to be more aware and I also believe that the press have a role to play to beginning to create more awareness and let state governments know that leasing is a better financing option for them. One of the things that I was happy recently was when I saw in the papers where the Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation (NNPC), for the first time adverted biding, asking leasing companies to bid for the provision of vehicles for their various depots all over Nigeria. When I saw it, I said wow that’s good; it means that even federal government, ministries and agencies are beginning to see the benefit of leasing.

As at the time the biding closed I learnt that 115 leasing companies applied for the bid.

Now they are going through the process to select the company that will do that. It may be because of the times that we are in right now where cash flow is limited every body’s eyes are beginning to open to see the benefits of leasing. They are beginning to see now that the best way to go is to begin to use leasing as a financing tool as supposed to outright acquisition of assets.

Speaking of long term funding, bigger players in your sector are not listed on the capital market where they can get cheaper, long term funding. What do you have to say about this?

What our members are trying to do is to first of all structure their business in such a way that they have all the things that is required to go to the capital market. Any company that wants to go to the capital market must have good corporate governance and good accounting policies. These are some of the things as a body that we discuss with our members, to work with consultants to prepare some of them that are not yet qualified. They have to put their books or house in order to be able to get to that level. So it is not like the association does not know what is required.

We are speaking with our members to ensure that they have all the necessary structure that will enable them to go to the market. But you and I know that this is not the best time to go to the market. However, at the right time so many of them who already qualify will list on the capital market. Some of our members have been able to attract development financing institutions to invest huge sums of money in their business, which tells you that they have strong corporate governance, good management, accounting policies and structures in place. But the issue now is whether this is the right time to do that but at the right time, you will see some of our members going to capital market to access funding.

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Financial Literacy as Antidote to Career Success Incorporating financial literacy into schools’ curriculum from an early age allows children to acquire the knowledge and skills to build responsible financial behaviour throughout each stage of their education, writes Obinna Chima Financial literacy is a core life skill for participating in modern society. Children are growing up in an increasingly complex world where they will eventually need to take charge of their own financial future.

National surveys conducted by the Organisation for Economic Cooperation and Development (OECD), had shown that young adults have amongst the lowest levels of financial literacy.

This is reflected by their general inability to choose the right financial products and often a lack of interest in undertaking sound financial planning.

That is why even from an early age, children need to develop the skills to help choose between different career and education options and manage any discretionary funds they may have, whether from allowances or part time jobs. These funds may entail the use of savings accounts or bank cards Clearly, financial literacy lessons help kids grapple with the adult choices they already face as teenagers.

According to Investopedia, financial literacy is the possession of knowledge and understanding of financial matters. Financial literacy is mainly used in connection with personal finance matters.

It often entails the knowledge of properly making decisions pertaining to certain personal finance areas like real estate, insurance, investing, saving (especially for education), tax planning and retirement. It also involves intimate knowledge of financial concepts like compound interest, financial planning, the mechanics of a credit card, advantageous savings methods, consumer rights, time value of money, etc.

In other words, financial literacy is the ability to make informed judgments and to take effective actions regarding the current and future use of and management of money. It is the possession of knowledge and skills by individuals to manage financial resources effectively to enhance their economic well-being.

Simply, it refers to ability to manage one’s available resources to be sufficient enough to provide both present, future anticipatory and contingent needs.

Recognising its importance, the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) recently disclosed that it had commenced discussions with the National Education Resource Centre to introduce financial literacy programs into the education curriculum of secondary schools in Nigeria.

It said once the discussions with NERC are finalised, financial literacy would be taught as a subject in all Nigerian secondary schools before the end of this year.

The CBN Director, Consumer Protection Department, Hajiya Umma Dutse, who disclosed this recently, stated that the commencement of the financial literacy program would assist in improving the savings culture among secondary school students.

According to the Pew Research Centre in 2006, 63 per cent of Americans acknowledged that they did not save enough and 36 per cent stated that they spent more than they could afford.

Catching them Young Also, in a bid to further sensitise teenagers about the importance of financial literacy, the Deputy Governor (Corporate Services), CBN, Mr. Adebayo Adelabu, has stressed that whatever career choices children make, from medicine to engineering, from law to accountancy, from agricultural science to banking and finance, among others, a common denominator in their aspiration is ‘success.’

Adelabu, who said this in a in keynote address titled: “Financial Literacy: An Antidote to Career Success,” he presented at the 2016 graduation ceremony of the Lifeforte International High School, Ibadan, Oyo State recently, noted that every brilliant professional aspires to be successful in being able to be self-sufficient in catering for self, family and relations and also afford every good thing desirable in life.

He however pointed out that there have been stories of brilliant doctors, bankers, accountants,

Adelabu

lawyers, engineers that ended their career as paupers and struggle through the rest of their later lives.

“It wasn’t because these professions did not earn them enough either as paid employees, or as self-employed, but they lacked good management of their financial resources. When I say financial resources, I mean money management.

It is unfortunate that this topic is never taught anywhere, be it at home or in primary, secondary and tertiary institutions, but is the key to career success of these children.

“Poor money management or lack of financial literacy has made a lot of brilliant professionals end up as paupers. Studies have shown that less privileged children are in most cases naturally more financially savvy. This is due to the fact that they learn from their very early days how to manage the little token provided by their parents while attending public schools.

“Everyone needs money. Everybody spends money. This is true whether you earn money or not. From your first day in this school, till date, you have been spending money. From the moment an individual is conceived, he starts to spend money, although owned by others, just as you have been spending your parents’ money. This continues up till the moment the individual is no more. Even after he is gone, others also spend on him for caskets, burial expenses, etc,” Adelabu explained.

Continuing, he said: “It is now clear that the subject of money, which is relevant to every individual before he is born and after he is dead, should be of extreme importance to everybody.

Money is something that you cannot do without or can anybody here tell me that he can do without money?

“But do they teach people enough about making money? Do they teach how to manage

money in the primary or secondary schools or in our homes? How many young people understand how money works in the world or how to earn and manage or grow it? or how to donate money to help others? This whole process – understanding how it works, earning and managing it and also using it to help others – is known as financial literacy. It is even more important now more than ever before, given the current economic condition of the country.”

More about Financial Literacy According to the deputy governor, CBN, financial literacy is not just about owning or operating a bank account, ability to use an ATM or PoS card, ability to make internet purchases or knowledge of mobile banking transactions, stressing that it goes beyond all that.

Not surprisingly, he noted that all life events are affected by how skilled an individual is in this area. “Some of those life events include buying a car, buying or building a house, renting a house, caring for a loved one, critical illness, death, getting a new job, losing a job, getting an education, getting married or divorced, having a baby or babies, inheriting money, life after school whether secondary or tertiary, planning for retirement, preventing your money or assets from being stolen, preventing fraud, raising a family, etc.

“How effectively or efficiently you navigate through all these life’s pressure is highly dependent on your financial literacy level or money management skills. It has been observed that the average student who enters a tertiary institution lacks the basic skills in the management of personal financial affairs. Families usually believe that their child will obtain this knowledge in school or at a later date in the future.

“Tertiary institutions on the other hand may also generally assume that the students were learning this within the family or at a previous school. How many here today received this knowledge from the family or the school? Can you let me see your hands up if you have received any formal teaching on financial literacy?” he queried.

Furthermore, Adelabu stressed that whether one is young or old, living in Lagos or London, there are standard principles that every individual must live by to achieve financial success in the areas of personal finance, commercial finance, or self-employment. He pointed out that if one cannot manage his or her income as a salary earner, there is the likelihood that such a person will also squander his or her business revenue as a self-employed.

He listed these standard principles to include: know your money personality - understand your personal comfort level with risk and financial loss, know your personal traits when it comes to money and determine your long term goals.

Secondly, in order to be financial literate, Adelabu said one must know what he or she is saving for and have a plan to get there; set financial goals; know their cash flow. Know how much you earn and how much you spend.

“It will surprise you that many people do not know how much they spend in a given period and it is funny when such people say that their money ‘just disappear’. Have a worksheet that records your income (from salary or selfemployment) and expenses. There is no other way to save than ensuring that your expenses are smaller than your income or making your income bigger than your expenses.

The sooner you start saving, the better off you will be.

A Chinese proverb says that ‘the best time to plant a tree was 20 years ago. The second best time is now’. Start saving now. Little savings can add up to big amounts over time. The power of compound interest magnifies the power of savings over time. If you save N10, 000 every month at the rate of 10 per cent for 30 years, you would save the sum of N22.8million in 30 years.

“Again, it is important to be financially literate whether or not you are self-employed or an entrepreneur. It is also useful to stress the fact that success in your career is not an overnight success. It requires doing the right things and consistently keeps at doing them.

This has been the ‘short-cut’ to success since time immemorial.

“Regardless of your career choice, whether you want to be a civil engineer or a psychologist, it is very important that you follow the standard principles of financial literacy in order to make your career a success. It is particularly useful to note that it is possible to be a very good medical doctor without being financially successful. Yet, it is possible to be a school teacher and be financially comfortable,” he added.

Continuing, he added: “Also, whether you are self-employed or an entrepreneur, or simply interested in personal finance, tax management is a fundamental aspect of your business. You must understand the most appropriate structure for your business and obtain useful advice on various forms of tax like personal income tax, company income tax, capital gains tax, etc.

“It is useful to know your exempted activities and transactions on which you can obtain tax reliefs, with a view to minimising your tax liabilities. Compliance with the relevant tax laws is very crucial as non-compliance is more costly. This makes you a responsible citizen.

“There is no gainsaying the fact that financial literacy is crucial to career success. It is in view of its importance that I strongly recommend that financial literacy be added to the curriculum of our schools at the secondary school level.

Parents should also impart financial literary into their children and not merely ask them ‘do you think money grows on trees’? Students should also grab financial literacy education with both hands because it is critical for their career success.”

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ANALYSIS

Weathering Bayelsa’s Economic Storm Bayelsa, like many other states, in Nigeria is going through perhaps its worst economic crisis in recent years, owing to the drastic reduction in its revenue arising from the drop in oil prices. Emmanuel Addeh examines the various steps taken by the state government to revamp the local economy It’s not the best of times for the people of Bayelsa State. Like in many other states in Nigeria, the economy of the state is receiving some serious bashing as a result of slump in crude oil prices and by extension, the allocation accruing to the state from the federal government.

Workers of all cadres are being owed salaries while pensioners look forward to a day soon that they would heave a sigh of relief over their entitlements.

Artisans and small scale businesses are having it rough; many are struggling to survive the downturn, others are just keeping hope alive.

But the state government led by Governor Seriake Dickson, having received several flacks initially, now seems to be taking all the tough economic decisions to bring things back on track; many of them not populist, some striking a cord with the masses.

Conscious of the dwindling revenues, the governor last month, approved a 30percent slash in the salaries of political appointees in the state, which according to him, would enable it meet its financial obligations to all stakeholders.

It has given marching orders to the newly inaugurated 11-member Bayelsa State Internal Revenue Board (BSIRB), to ensure a monthly target of N600million and increase it thereafter.

“The task before you is very serious, because the federal allocation to the state is very low. As you know, our internally generated revenue is also low and for any state to develop, it needs a robust Internally Generated Revenue.

“Government is going to send a bill to the State Assembly to introduce laws and policies that will improve the revenue profile of the state”, Dickson said while inaugurating the board, led by its Chairman, Mr. Nimibofa Ayawei.”

To underscore his seriousness in boosting the revenue from taxes, the state governor, has also inaugurated a development tribunal, which he said would have the responsibility to ensure that the state government collects appropriate taxes and rates on landed properties and corporate businesses in the state.

Dickson promised that henceforth, tax defaulters would be brought before the tribunal to face the law and urged citizens who have grievances to approach the tribunal.

“States that have robust internally generated revenue are the ones that take their tax systems seriously,” Dickson told the chairman of the tribunal, James Lockie.

Not done, the governor, in another forum, expressed doubts over the state’s monthly wage bill of about N4.5 billion, stressing that many fraudulent deals were going on within a certain payroll cartel.

Dickson said he believed that against the backdrop of payroll fraud that resulted in the over-bloated wage bill in the state, the government would not be tired of verifying workers before salaries are paid.

To that end, he has again, set up several panels and committees to probe, verify and re-verify the state’s payroll with a view to weeding out those who were ripping the state off.

“I will set up layers upon layers of verification committees. Nobody should be tired”, he recently told journalists who complained that workers were getting tired of the verification exercises.

Dickson insisted that already the verification had revealed mind-boggling facts that the wage bill was manipulated by a cabal in order to enrich their pockets at the expense of the people.

“Children are receiving salaries in the civil service. Those that did not apply for study leave are also receiving salaries abroad. Those due for retirement rely on affidavit to falsify their age to remain in

Dickson

service. Dead workers still draw salaries from government”, he lamented recently.

But most profound of recent pronouncements by Dickson, was to the effect that unknown to the public, he had been using a huge part of the meagre federal allocation to the state on payment of debts incurred by a previous government in the state.

An angry Dickson, who addressed political leaders, traditional rulers and other stakeholders on the bad state of the state’s economy at the Diepreye Alamieyeseigha Banquet Hall in Yenagoa, noted that there were many misconceptions about the state’s finances.

The governor, who was flanked by a large retinue of his aides in the State’s Executive Council, noted that he was using a huge part of the revenue accruing to Bayelsa state in servicing debts incurred in the past.

Dickson noted that Bayelsa State received N95bn from the Federation Account in one year, adding that N12billion went to the eight local governments in the state, bringing the state government’s receipt to N83billion.

The governor who spoke at the 50th edition of the state’s monthly transparency briefing and the launch of transparency website, ‘Transparency Watch’, revealed that the sum of N14.89billion was used to service bond repayments taken by the former administration while salaries of workers consumed N32.38billion.

He further said bank loans gulped about N15billion, local debts including inherited debts and overdraft N24.6billion, overhead costs for running the three arms of government N3.9billion, while the sum of N20.9billion went to projects. ‘’The ill-advised bond was a criminal

enterprise of N14.3bn. We have local bank debts of N15.1bn. This state has been unfairly dealt with”, he fumed.

Vowing to proceed with the reforms, Dickson urged civil servants to brace up for the challenges ahead, noting that he is currently cleaning the books to make sure that those reaping from where they did not sow were flushed from the system. True to his promise, the governor has set up the State and Local Government Pensions Boards, headed by Mrs. Jane Alek and Sir Frazer Okuoru, respectively.

At the event, Dickson restated government’s commitment to completely eradicate payroll fraud in the state, and charged both boards to swing into action immediately.

“I charge you all to ensure that all those, who are going to be paid are verified. You have to verify each and every one of them, interact with them, go to them if they are too weak to come, take their photographs, verify their age in particular,” he instructed.

As part of the ‘layers’ of verification panels the governor promised, a nine-member judicial commission of inquiry was also set up to investigate the “fraudulent falsification of the government payroll and other accounts.”

Justice Doris Adokeme was nominated the chairperson of the commission, while Mr. Victor Slaboh was chosen as secretary.

But the exercises seem to be generating positive feedback as many people the government described as ‘ghost workers’ have been weeded out while the genuine ones are being paid, though in installments.

The government says it has also resisted the temptation to cut down on its workforce or review salaries downwards as a result of its waning resources.

And contrary to rumours making the rounds, the government has also allayed the fears that the verification exercise is to witch-hunt any employee, but to clean-up the vouchers in line with its transparency and accountability principles. In another step, the governor says that he has instructed the relevant ministries and departments of government to quickly revamp agro-business in the state to boost local consumption and possibly for export.

To this end, the Government has approved the establishment of a mega aquaculture farm on its 172-hectare land already acquired at Igbogene area, to cushion the declining revenues.

The 500 earthen pond fishing community, which will comprise a hatchery, feed mill and a processing facility of international standard, Dickson says, is geared towards empowering Bayelsans, particularly the youths and women of the state.

He adds that the state would also harness the comparative advantage in rice and oil palm production, with the establishment of processing plants by leveraging on low interest funds from the Central Bank of Nigeria.

“For the fact that we have comparative advantage in rice production, Council approved that the Isampou 4,000 Rice Field will be inspected and immediate action will be taken on it. And, before the rice value chain will be developed seriously, there is the need for the state to have an ambitious processing plant.

“Plans are in place for the government to acquire and own 50 tons per day rice processing plant that will meet the processing needs of Bayelsa and its environs. It is expected that the end-product will be exportable because it will be of international standard”, the government explained last week.

In a policy which seems to be the first of its kind in many states, the government says it has also concluded arrangements to commercialise some of its parastatals and agencies. The measure, the government noted, is to enable the state to diversify the local economy in the face of dwindling revenues.

Accordingly, the three key areas of the government’s focus will be on power generation, agriculture as well as land ownership and housing, as the administration says it can no longer sustain its recurrent expenditure from the federal allocation.

To Dickson, the move would boost the internally generated revenue of the state, especially since it has comparative advantage in the areas.

He noted that the commercialisation policy was targeted at realising the full potential of the agencies and the parastatals with a view to ensuring job creation, revenue generation and efficient service delivery.

He said: “The primary objective is that we want to achieve the true economic potential of these enterprises because the idea behind setting them up in the first place was very good.

“The question is managing them effectively.

So, the fate of the workers would be greatly enhanced; the objective at the end of the day is to increase the number of opportunities for jobs. So we must keep faith with the exercise.”

But would the current reforms not go into oblivion once the allocation from the centre improves? The Chief Press Secretary to the Governor, Mr. Daniel Iworiso-Markson disagreed.

“There are not many alternatives to these decisions that are being taken right now.

The days where people take advantage of the system to rob the state are over. These reforms are just the way to go if the economy has to bounce back, even with the declining accruals to the state”, he said.

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BUSINESSWORLD

WEDNESDAY, JULY 6 2016, • T H I S D AY

INSURANCE

All Eyes on New NIA Helmsman The Nigeria Insurers Association recently transferred its leadership baton to Mr. Eddie Efekoha as its 45th chairman. Ebere Nwoji highlights some of the challenges he will encounter as he pilots the affairs of the industry over the next two years The umbrella body of insurance underwriters in Nigeria, the Nigeria Insurers Association (NIA), recently lifted up its golden chain of leadership symbol from its immediate past president, Godwin Wiggle and lowered it on the neck of Mr. Eddie Efekoha, as its 45th president.

By so doing, the association has transferred its leadership baton to Efekoha who will henceforth oversee the affairs of the association for the next two years.

The exercise, which was perfected at the 45th annual general meeting of the association held in Lagos, has positioned Efekoha, who is also the Managing Director of Consolidated Hallmark Insurance, as the spokesman of Nigerian insurance operators both within and outside the country.

He is to champion the course of protecting and projecting the interest and image of the industry before the government and outside the shores of Nigeria as well as projecting the industry before the masses as industryworthy of their patronage.

The NIA, has as its objectives among other things to protect and advance the common L-R: Immediate past chairman, Nigerian Insurance Association (NIA), Godwin Wiggle, decorating the Managing Director, Consolidated Hallmark Insurance Plc, Mr interests of insurance operators in Nigeria Eddie Efekoha, as new NIA Chairman, with Director General, NIA, Sunday Thomas, during the 45th annual general meeting of NIA held in Lagos ...recently by creating and sustaining a positive image For instance,after taking away the work- the new NIA chairman,but from the testimony for the insurance industry and contributing the six geopolitical zones of the country, the to legislation, and decisions made by the operators and the regulator had projected that men compensation from insurance, the road of his professional colleagues, Efekoha appears government and other public authorities in through the enforcement, the industry’s premium safety commission is still eyeing third party to be equal to the task.

His professional colleagues said he has some the best interest of the industry in particular would grow from N260 billion premium level motor insurance while aviation industry and the national economy in general; to advise then to a trillion Naira by the year 2012, but operators and their regulator are breathing outstanding qualities among other leadership members on any action or proposed action failing to achieve this, the industry gave itself hard to develop a special aviation insurance qualities he has which will enable him perform by government or any other authority, in another five years grace saying that this would scheme for their passengers. Efekoha should and these are integrity, sincerity and blunt collaborate with NAICOM to set up a strong about truth. connection with any legislation or policy; be achieved by the year 2017.

Already, in his acceptance speech, Efekoha,has to advise or consult with the government We are now in the year 2016, but the indus- industry lobby group that will guard against regarding any act or thing done or being try’s premium hovers around N350billion and further encroachment into the industry by expressed his awareness and recognition of the above challenges mentioned when he said his contemplated by it or its agencies or other has just one year left to achieve the set target. government.

He should also work towards making administration would be preoccupied by effort statutory bodies with regard to any matter Though a lot of underground work had relating to insurance business. been done to achieve this, Efekoha has to government topatronise the industry by to address four key issues in the industry. insuring all its properties.

Other objectives of the NIA include to guide work hard to accomplish it.

These four key priority areas are: He should also align with the regulator in and assist members in complying with any He can go a long way to achieve the dream if •Ensuring engagement of the industry statute, regulation, order and government his regime will succeed in blocking all the loop disciplining underwriters who still operate directive relating generally to the business holes through which the industry’s premium unprofessionally. It is true that the industry stakeholders with policy makers at the pays claims now, there are still few insur- Judiciary, the Legislature and other relevant of insurance; to create better understanding leaks out to fake insurance operators. of insurance by all sections of the community Recent reports by the association saying ance firms that bring the industry’s image to agencies of the government, as well as including the furtherance of knowledge and that about 12 million vehicles plying Nigerian disrepute by unnecessarily delaying payment regulatory institutions and industry players.

•Enforcing market discipline amongst research on insurance and related matters and roads have fake insurance certificate is not to of genuine claims and where they pay at the long run, they pay the insured person almost key industry players, which will involve to collect, collate and disseminate statistical, the industry’s credit. economic and other information relating to The new NIA chairman,is now faced with a quarter of what he ought to get,hiding under engagement with colleagues and partners in Insurance; to maintain constant dialogue with the challenge of making the industry’s Data the umbrella of some ambiguous clauses in the industry to encourage market development other trade associations in the insurance industry base initiative to be effective in all the states the policy document there by leaving such and continuity in the industry.

•Review of the NIA constitution to make with a view to fostering good relationships of the federation not only on motor insurance insured disgruntled.

The new NIA chairman,should seriously it more dynamic in response to the changing between them, the NIA as well as the insuring but other insurances like marine insurance. public, among others.

Also cases of collapsed buildings abound in look into this to save the industry’s image business environment.

•Consolidating on other current projects different parts of the country with attendant from unnecessary dent.

He should also endeavour to educate his embarked upon by the Association most The task of ensuring that the association loss of lives and property whereas the industry lives up to the above set objectives now had projected that it will annually generate members on the need to publicise settled important of which is the NIA Building rests on Efekoha’s shoulders.

N10billion from compulsory builders insurance claims. There are a lot of claims that Project.

Efekoha,said his administration will deal the members of the public are expected As the Helsman of the Governing Council alone. of the Association, which is the apex decisionEfekoha, should put on his thinking cap to hear how they were settled but to with these matters to the best of its abilities making organ for the industry, Efekoha is along with other council members of the as- no avail but the public heard when the but pleaded that where there is mistakes to coordinate the activities of the various sociation to ensure that he achieves this task risk occurred.For instance, the status of the operators should forgive .

He commended the National Insurance committees that make up NIA, which are of effective enforcement of the compulsory the claims on Bristow helicopter that crashed into the lagoon last year is still Commission (NAICOM) for instituting the Accident Offices Committee; Accounting insurance policies.

Insurers Committee.

Technical Committee; Information Technology The new NIA chairman,should bring to not known.

He also expressed optimism that the insurance Shortly after the crash, the underwriting Committee; Fire Offices Committee; Legal practical reality the proposed collaboration Committee; Life Offices Committee; Marine with relevant government agencies like the firm and its broker told the media when industry at this time would benefit a lot from Offices Committee; Human Capital Management federal and state Fire service, the road safety confronted with the issue of the claims the openness to dialogue with the regulator, Committee as well as the Advisory Committees commission, the police and a host of them that the airline and the passengers were yet the NAICOM as a means to addressing some of the ills of the market today for long term of the Council. listed during the industry’s mega conference to file their claims.

Since then, nothing again has been heard sustainability, growth and ease of regulation.

Taking up the association’s leadership last year and speed up action in working with This, he said is in line with the theme mantle at this critical time when the industry them to help in fighting against activities of on the claims, Any time members of the press needs most to increase insurance penetration fake insurers. At the conference, it was revealed ask the broker about it, he will refer them to of his chairmanship as he encouraged NIA across the country, grow its premium income before the presence of fire service officials that the underwriting firm who from all indications members to continue to participate actively in the committee meetings and programme. and contribute significantly to the GDP of the insurance act mandates insurers to pay is not ready to talk about the issue.

He said the NIA, has and will continue to Publicising paid claims is a big advertisement the economy, Efekoha has a number of one percent of their proceeds on fire insurance challenges to face and these challenges, if policy to the fire service authority to enable for the industry so if actually a company paid remain true to its legacy as an institution that well addressed, would reposition the industry them procure and maintain their equipment. claims, it should let the public know about it. exists to champion the cause of the insurance But most underwriters will not disclose how industry and will ensure that the founders’ and transform it to a trillion Naira market The fire service officers are waiting earnestly and a mega industry operating within the when the industry will start fulfillment of this a particular claim the public is interested in sense of purpose will be upheld by the members hearing about was settled.They will rather at at all times. ambit of global best practices. aspect of the industry’s law .

Efekoha, said his two years tenure as the Prominent among these challenges is the Again, he should seek for connection from the end of the year compile the total claims need to effectively enforce the five compulsory the right government quarters especially the they paid in a year and release the same to deputy chairman of the Association, has given insurance policies launched by the industry legislative arm to end the era of incessant the press. But the public is more interested in him ample opportunity to appraise and fully since the year 2009, which is expected to encroachment into the industry’s various hearing and reading each of the claims paid understand the dynamics and workings of boost the premium income of the industry. policies and transfer of them to other agencies and to whom they were paid.

There are a lot of other challenges waiting for During the launch, which took place in outside insurance.

Continued on page 31

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WEDNESDAY, JULY 6 2016, • T H I S D AY

BUSINESSWORLD

NEWS

NIA: Over Three Million Vehicles in Nigeria Have Genuine Insurance Certificates Ebere Nwoji

The Nigeria Insurers Association (NIA) has said that over three million vehicles in Nigeria have genuine insurance cover.

This is coming on the heels of a similar report by the association that over 12 million vehicles plying Nigerian roads have fake insurance certificates.

The Director General of the association, Mr. Sunday Thomas, presenting the report of the as-

sociation’s Governing Council to the NIA members at its 45th annual general meeting, held in Lagos recently, said this was one of the achievements of the association’s data base tagged: ‘Nigerian Insurance Industry Data Base’ ( NIID ) launched five years ago to checkmate the activities of fakers of third Party Motor Insurance among other insurance policies whose certificates are often faked by touts.

“In the period under review, over three million vehicles with genuine insurance covers are recorded on the NIID platform.

With the adoption by Lagos State and three other states, the use of the handheld verification devices as well as the provided Internet gateway for verification has been of immense benefits both to the insuring public and the law enforcement agencies,” he stated.He said to enhance the insurance certificate verification

process, the association recently commenced discussions on the implementation of a faster, more robust and more responsive verification gateway. This, he said, would be implemented soon.According to Thomas, the collaborative efforts of the association with government agencies has added more value to the NIID system’s performance, highlighting some of these collaborations as; provision of auto crash reports for the Federal

Road Safety Corps, discussions with the Nigeria police Force on the integration of NIID with computerised Tinted Glass Permit system as well as engagement with the Nigerian Customs Service for integration with their trade system for enforcement of marine insurance.

The NIID is a centralised data system for the insurance industry.

It serves as authentic repository of the Nigerian insurance

industry data, and is used by law enforcement agents for the verification of insurance certificates issued or presented as evidence of insurance for Motor and Marine policies.

It also helps in providing qualitative analysis of industry performance and serve as source of historical data for benchmarking, while also enabling the financial information of NIA members to be rendered electronically for ease of analysis.

Royal Exchange Announces N8bn Gross Premium Royal Exchange Plc, the insurance and financial services group, has announced a Gross Written Premium of N10.7 billion from its business activities for the financial year ended December 31, 2015.

This represents an increase of 14 percent over the figure of 2014, which stood at N9.4billion.

The company also said its Net Premium Income for the period amounted to N8.4 billion, with a modest growth of 9percent over that of year 2014, which stood at N7.8billion.

The company’s total assets also increased to N26.525billion, up by 2percent from the preceding year.

While total claims paid for the period under review amounted to N3.0billion, an increase of 26percent from 2014, which was N2.4billon.

Announcing this in Lagos recently, the Group Managing Director of the company, Alhaji Auwalu Muktari, stated that despite the very harsh operating environment during the year under review, the group was able to grow its top-line figures by participating in large-ticket financial transactions, as well as playing in the retail insurance market, which shall be a key growth driver in the years ahead.

According to Muktari, “Royal Exchange Plc will in the years to come, continue to be an aggressive player in the retail market in Nigeria and will be looking at different strategies to increase its product offering and visibility in the marketplace, while not losing track of the corporate market, where the returns and margins, are dwindling, yearly.”

Osun Commends Sterling Bank for Environmental Sustainability The Governor of Osun State, Rauf Aregbesola has commended Sterling Bank Plc for its contribution to clean environment through the provision of necessary incentives to checkmate environmental challenges.

The governor who made the commendation while receiving reflective coveralls donated by the bank for use by members of the Osun Waste Management Authority (OWMA) in Oshogbo noted that the coverall would protect the highway managers against occupational hazards which they face in the discharge of their responsibilities on a daily basis.

“By this donation, Sterling Bank has demonstrated its commitment to environmental sustainability. These coveralls without any doubt will make the Highway Managers visible from afar and prevent the incidents of motorists running into them. It will provide safety against occupational hazards and also give them a sense of dignity as opposed to appearing improperly dressed and unkempt and elevate their status as they see themselves as very relevant to the society through the service they provide,” he was quoted to have said.

NEW OFFERING

L-R: Retail Manager, Tecno BU Nigeria Limited, Mr Onuh Emeka; Business Development Manager, BU Nigeria, Mr Peter Shi; Business Unit Head, Tecno Tablet Transsion Holdings, Mr Gbenga Oguntade; and Business Development Manager, Tecno Nigeria Transsion Holdings, Mr Jack Huang, during the launch of Phone and Pad 711, By Tecno, Transsion Holdings Limited, in Lagos …recently

Sekibo Highlights Success Tips for Youth Fund Beneficiaries The Managing Director/Chief Executive Officer of Heritage Bank Plc, Mr. Ifie Sekibo has identified character as the success factor for the 1,500 youths participating in the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) N3billion Youth Innovative Entrepreneurship Development Programme (YIEDP).

Speaking at the official flag off of the training programme of the first batch of beneficiaries of the youth empowerment programme initiated by the CBN with Heritage Bank Plc and the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) as partners, Sekibo advised the youths to adopt a strong positive character to enable them take

advantage of the platform being presented to them.

The event, which took place at the NYSC Orientation Village, Kubwa, Abuja marked the beginning of an experiment in reducing graduate unemployment in the country by extending single-digit interest loans to enable qualified NYSC members and young graduates fulfill their dreams of becoming entrepreneurs.

Sekibo, according to a statement, tasked the young beneficiaries, who through initial tests were selected from nearly 10,000 applicants, to remain focused and tenacious so as to be able to succeed. Said he: “Today, you represent the

first step into an experiment that if we succeed, we would be on a part of turning the economic tide of our great nation. But you have to bring your character to the table. If you do not bring your character to the table, this experiment will not succeed.”

He added: “As I wish you well, I beg you in the name of God to bring your character to the table. You must develop a tenacious spirit, a can do spirit, a never say die spirit that can surmount all challenges.

The effort we have undertaken today will amount to nothing if your character is not on the table. Every man, every leader worries about the character of

the people he works with. If you are tenacious we will do the best we can to sponsor you to your highest dreams.

Give us the opportunity to sponsor you to your highest dreams.” The CBN had selected Heritage Bank as its pilot partner bank to unveil, administer and manage the laudable project, which will focus on dependable job-creating sectors, such as agricultural value chain (fish farming, poultry, snail farming), cottage industry, mining and solid minerals, creative industry (tourism, arts and crafts), and Information and Communications Technology (ICT).

ALL EYES ON NEW NIA HELMSMAN the system,adding that he considered his election as a call to duty as well as a call he is prepared for and willing to undertake.

“Leadership is all about shared vision and responsibility. I want to assure you that during my tenure, I intend to build on the achievements of my predecessors in office. I am aware of the fact that the assignment is daunting thereforeI call on all my colleagues to join me to reflect on our past, critically assess the present and look forward to the future with greater hope and enthusiasm.

Efekoha, said his team was fully aware that

there is a need for the industry stakeholders to come together to save the insurance industry now more than ever, observing that the economic space is shrinking and businesses are facing greater threats; and the insurance sector is not insulated from developments in the global economic space.

“It therefore behooves on us to respond quickly to the changing dynamics of the market space so that we do not go extinct in the face of the global pressures on our businesses. Indeed there is no better time than now to strengthen the association and

reposition it for the task ahead”, he stated.

Aside his naturally endowed leadership qualities, his sound academic background and years of experience in the industry stand as big advantage.

Efekoha holds a Bachelor ’s degree in Insurance and a Masters degree in Business Administration both from the University of Lagos.

Since graduation, he had worked in various capacities at insurance underwriting and brokerage firms such as Everyman Insurance Brokers, Hogg Robinson Nigeria,

and Glanvill Enthoven & Co (Nig.) where he left as Executive Director (Technical) in 1997 to pioneer the effective take off of Fountain Insurance Brokers Ltd as its Managing Director/ Chief Executive.

He was the Vice Chairman/CEO of Consolidated Risk Insurers Plc before his present position as the Managing Director of Consolidated Hallmark.

A Fellow of the Chartered Insurance Institutes of London and Nigeria, Efekoha has attended several local and international courses in both Insurance and Management.

T H I S D AY • WEDNESDAY,JULY 6, 2016

32

EDUCATION ‘Investing in Girl-child will Curb Violence, Molestation’

In view of the numerous challenges confronting the girl-child in Nigeria, a Divisional Commissioner for Eti-Osa Local Government Area and a volunteer worker with the Nigerian Girl Guides, Mrs. Caroline Akingbesote explained to Funmi Ogundare why it is important for stakeholders to invest in the lives of the girl-child to build a total child that will not be molested in the society

In every civilized society and especially in the African context, children are regarded as the pride of their parents and the greatest value the society possess. That is why children are cherished and consciously protected from all form of hazards and abuse.

However, the girl-child has not been so lucky to be cherished, protected and loved due to certain stereotyping, cultural and religious beliefs which put them at risks of abuse and neglect.

This is why the Nigerian Girl Guides is more interested in the upbringing of girls and harnessing their potential so as to become responsible adults that will be useful in all areas to themselves, the community and the society at large. Thus, a Divisional Commissioner for Eti-Osa Local Government Area and a volunteer worker with Nigerian Girl Guides, Mrs. Caroline Akingbesote said the organisation is presently running a campaign against violence on the girl-child.

“It is what we do every year. We have talks with the children, advising them on what to do when they see such signs.

Whether we like it or not, we will live with our brothers, uncles and fathers and we have seen cases of fathers molesting their children. When they see signs, we have been teaching them what to do. If it eventually happens they know what to do and who to confide in. It is part of what we are doing as guiders; the war against violence is still ongoing.”

On the steps the organisation has taken to ensure justice for girls who have been molested, she said: “We have told the girls that if they experience such cases, they should report to us. There was a time we were in the camp; we told the children that if they have any issue they could write them down without putting their names. You need to see a lot of revelation. Lesbianism for instance, though they say is common among girls, I have not seen any but I have heard of such issue, but we don’t want it to happen.

“At the camp for instance 10 children to two adults sleep in a room and we don’t allow two girls to go to the toilet at the same time. We keep talking to them about it because some get lured into it. In Eti-Osa, we have not gotten such case. If eventually we have such a case, we refer such to the legal arm of the association that will ensure justice for such a person.”

So far, Akingbesote, who is also an educator, said the organisation has been organising career talks, cooking competitions, training camps, table manners and setting, as well as personal hygiene for girls in their schools, adding that every year when members of the organisation hold a national camp from state to state, children with different character from different backgrounds come together to be part of the organisation.

“That is where you are able to touch their lives. Some will just wake up without greeting their elders, this is not our culture. So it is up to you to call them to order. When we come together, we tell the girls, this is the way we want things done, once you are a member of the guide, you will see the difference. In all the schools, we tell them once a child is a brownie or a guide, she must stand out in everything. In Eti-Osa, we organise various programmes for the girls and we go from school to school, we have been able to buy uniforms for some

Akingbesote

in the past through some friends of guides in Eti-Osa. “In the area of discipline, when it comes to training the girls in house chores, we make them to become responsible people in the society. For any girl-child who is a brownie or a guide, core values such as the way she dresses up, the way she talks,

These girls will grow up to become leaders of tomorrow, let us join hands to train them so that they can become responsible wives, mothers and leaders in our society

sitting and walking posture are some of the things we inculcate in her and that is what we are trying to bring back. Anything that involves the total girl-child is what we are involved in.”

She said the Lagos State government has also been doing a lot in the area of buying uniforms for the girls, adding, “there is no way they can buy uniform for everybody and so many of the girls are interested in the association, but they cannot afford the uniform. The Director of Tender Loving School, Ikoyi, Mrs. Olubunmi Egebyemi was able to get some uniforms free for some girls as part of her contribution to the association.

Akinbesote said last year the organisation made a mobile library where it encouraged the girls to read with a partner on club days, adding that it was able to get some books which were given out to the girls.

“We have gone to some public primary schools in Ikoyi to resuscitate their libraries.

We also have our ‘Thinking Day’, which is our annual founder’s day used to touch lives. We are saying that our future is bright and that is why we are trying to bring in more people of repute to come and help us so that there will be continuity.

“There are so many areas where they can be involved. They can help to get uniforms to those in public schools; they can sponsor some of our programmes; they can help with trainings. These girls will grow up to become leaders of tomorrow, let us join hands to train them so that they can become responsible wives, mothers and leaders in our society,” she stressed.

Asked about the organisation’s corporate social responsibility activities, the divisional commissioner, who affirmed that the people assisting the organisation are mostly teachers, said: “During our guide week, we do environmental sanitation and we encourage schools to participate. In most cases, it is a week-long celebration, we do career talk, aside environmental sanitation, we also do visitation to homes.

“We encourage the children to give out that it is not until you have so much that you give, even in your lowly state, you can also give. If you are given N50 to eat, but you prefer to give it out to impact someone’s life, then you have given something. The motto is ‘Doing a Good Turn’ and for the brownies it is ‘Lend a Hand’.

“We are a voluntary organisation. The girls don’t have money, when we go to camps, they have to pay, so the association has to subsidise. Aside that, transportation is expensive, for instance, we went to Port Harcourt three years ago and transportation was much. As a leader I had to subsidise because I wanted my division to be represented at the camp. Nigerians don’t like to join anything where there are is profit.

So it takes a large heart to come forward and join the association because you will spend your time and resources. So if we get people to buy uniforms for the children, it will go a long way.”

On the response of the girl-child to the organisation’s activities, Akingbesote said, “very few felt that we are infringing on their rights, though they are not many, while a lot have embraced it very well and they are happy and their parents are happy too. Some of the parents do come back to thank us for inculcating in their daughters the right values. Some of them, the moment you give them our uniform, they will go and re-shape it so that their figure can come out. So when they come to meetings, we tell them to go back and adjust or tell them to buy another one.

“There is a way we wear our uniform and beret, some of them will comply when they see you but when you are not there, they will do another thing, but there are some who always do the right thing. There is a register in every school, if you don’t come to meetings, once we have a programme, you can’t go with us and some of them will not even wear their uniforms on a club day.

“There was a programme we organised recently ‘Free being Me’ from the World Association of Girls Guides and Girls Scout (WAGGGS), where they sent some badges that were given to outstanding ones among them, such things will make them to sit up, they will do the right thing.”

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T H I S D AY • WEDNESDAY, JULY 6, 2016

EDUCATION

Building Capacity in Gerontology With an estimated three per cent annual growth in the population of older persons and inappropriate ageing policies, gerontology experts have called for the training of personnel in that field to better understand how older persons should be treated. Uchechukwu Nnaike reports Older persons’ welfare challenges are not peculiar to any region or country, as improving health care; preventing violence against older persons, participation of older persons in decision-making processes; reducing poverty among older persons, among other are always in public discourse across the world. However, while some countries have better policies to enable them address the challenges, others do not.

Available demographic data in the country have shown that the population of older persons in Nigeria is currently estimated at about 8.2 million and it is expected to increase by three per cent, annually. However, there is no well-designed policy to address their needs in a holistic manner.

This need inspired the Dave Omokaro Foundation (DOF) to sign an agreement in Abuja recently, with the International Institute on Ageing, United Nations-Malta (INIA) on Ageing Development and Training in Sub-Sahara Africa (SSA) to enable it host the institute’s programmes in all aspects of ageing in Nigeria.

The INIA also organised a weeklong in-situ training and workshop, in collaboration with the foundation, aimed at national capacity building for ageing policy formulation and development not only in Nigeria, but across SSA. The Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) was signed following the success of the collaboration between the National Universities Commission (NUC) and DOF, which led to the development of the Benchmark Minimum Academic Standards (BMAS) curriculum for Gerontology and Geriatrics Programmes and the training of 24 scholars at the University of North Texas, Denton, USA to build capacity and mainstream the study in the Nigerian University System (NUS).

In his remarks, the Executive Secretary of NUC, Professor Julius Okojie, who was represented by the Deputy Executive Secretary II, Mallam Ibrahim Dan’Iya, commended the parties for signing the MoU. He recalled that in 2012, when the Director of INIA, Professor Joseph Troisi, was invited to speak at the International Day of Older Persons (IDOP), the commission had requested for the opening of a sub-regional Centre of INIA in Nigeria to facilitate training and capacity building of experts that would provide care and specialised services for older persons in the country.

Okojie said though the request is yet to be approved, the foundation deserves commendation for working assiduously to provide a similar platform for the delivery of INIA outreach programmes in Nigeria.

He expressed hope that the relationship would provide the needed impetus to create awareness for policy makers and other stakeholders to ensure the mainstreaming of older persons in the country’s development agenda.

According to him, having partnered DOF over the past five years, he could vouch for the foundation, adding that INIA found a credible and worthy partner.

The Director of the institute, Dr. Marvin Fermosa, said the workshop was a platform to improve on current ageing policies that offered prospects for improving the quality of life of the older population. This, he said, would enable older persons to age actively, successfully and productively.

He said the Madrid International Plan Action adopted at the Second World Assembly on Ageing, held in Madrid, Spain in 2002 was a cornerstone in this respect, adding that since the adoption of the plan, progress had been made across a broad range of issues for the protection of older persons and promotion of ageing issues.

Fermosa said the African Union Policy Framework and Plan of Action constituted another watershed moment for the continent’s

Omokaro (middle) with some participants

capacity building in ageing, adding that some challenges such as improving health care, preventing violence against older persons, participation of older persons in the decision-making processes and reducing poverty among older persons remained formidable throughout the world.

The director stated that INIA has been facilitating the implementation of the Madrid Action Plan on Ageing through annual training programmes in Malta on Social Gerontology, Health Promotion in Later Life and Social Policy Planning and Implementation.

He disclosed that in 2015 alone, INIA conducted four in-situ training programmes, three in China and one in the Philippines, adding that within the first half of this year, it hosted training missions in India, Turkey and China. These he said would be followed by programmes in Malaysia, Philippines, Belarus and Kenya.

Fermosa said the institute has so far trained 2,189 participants from 150 countries in its regular international short and long-term training programmes held in Malta, while it also carried out 102 in-situ training programmes in 28 different countries, training more than 3,200 various professionals in the field of ageing.

He thanked Professor Nana Apt for accepting to act as INIA’s international expert on the training and called for active participation of the stakeholders, urging them to take necessary measures to put into action the implementable steps to better the lives of the older persons in line with the nation’s realities.

The Executive Director of DOF, Dr. Emem Omokaro, who thanked all stakeholders that supported the initiative, said the agreement was an indication of the relevance of the foundation’s capacity building efforts; its impact on policy and services gaps and the recognition of the need for concrete national structures for increasing the ageing capacities in Nigeria.

She said the participants had the task of addressing what could be done to guarantee better quality of life and improved wellbeing of Nigeria’s ageing demographics.

According Omokaro, the demographics included: addressing economic inequalities to reduce the incidence of poverty in old age; making older persons more independent and economically engaged for as long as they are able as well as creating age friendly communities that can address

social exclusion, among others.

She stressed the need to address these challenges through broader inter-sectoral efforts involving policy and decision makers across government Ministries, Departments and Agencies (MDAs), civil society organisations in ageing and media organisations to find answers to the demographic issues.

Omokaro commended the United NationsDepartment of Economic and Social Affairs for accrediting DOF to be part of its Openended Working Group on Ageing, while reiterating that the collective objective of the workshop was to build capacities for mainstreaming effective proactive Ageing Strategies and related Public Policy Formulation for Nigeria. She expressed hope that the federal government would harness the lessons, skills and passion of the trainees by translating the INIA-DOF 2016 class into a National Working Group on Ageing with the mandate to review the existing draft policies of 2003 and 2008 and facilitate its finalisation. She also expressed hope that the derivable from the training would feed conceptualisation and drafting of legislations on ageing.

On her part, the lead resource person, Professor Apt, said the workshop was timely and that Africa must see the plight of the elderly as deserving utmost attention. She explained that the institutionalisation of policy and legal frameworks are vital to addressing it, adding that the issues of the elderly need to be tackled from a three-pronged approach of the individual, society and governmental institutions.

She said the training was different from others, as it was the first time a purely African programme on ageing was organised and tailored to meet the needs of the elderly in Nigeria. She advised the participants to begin to identify the relevant persons required in government and the civil society to ensure that the draft policy is formulated and ready for implementation.

At the end of the conference, stakeholders in the field of ageing called on the federal government to articulate a national policy framework that would address the needs of older persons in a holistic manner to include the provision of social security insurance, housing development and road constructions that are elderly persons-friendly by 2030.

In his remarks, WHO’s Representative in Nigeria, Dr. Rui Gama Vaz, who was represented by Dr. Andrew Mbuewe, said his passion for issues of the elderly made him

support DOF in its efforts at domesticating ageing issues in Nigeria.

He said the success of the training would become more meaningful when the Federal Ministry of Women Affairs and Social Welfare Development, as well as that of Health serve as arrowheads to encourage not only the development of ageing policy, but nexus for its full implementation.

In their separate comments, representatives of the Federal Ministries of Health, Labour and Productivity, as well as Budget and National Planning, among others, thanked the organisers and sponsors for the opportunity given them to participate at the workshop and for the rich contents drawn from domestic experiences, which further exposed them to the plight of older persons.

They urged DOF/INIA to take the course beyond the level of policy formulation to address the real issues affecting the dayto-day lives of the elderly.

They called for the formation of pressure groups and networks that would follow up on policies of the ministries and ensure the judicious implementation of budgets on older persons. The ministries also noted that the outcome of the workshop would encourage them to provide social security insurance for the workforce and retirees that are mainly in the older persons’ age bracket.

A director in the National Health Insurance Scheme (NHIS) said the agency is ready to mainstream the issues of ageing in its programmes beginning with the creation of a desk and funding mechanism for Ageing Studies.

The director also expressed the readiness of NHIS to play its expected role to help address the health needs and universal coverage of the elderly in their programmes.

A representative from Zambia, Ms. Getrudo Zukambita, who also expressed delight at the course content, noted that Zambia would adapt the policy and formulate it to meet the needs of its ageing population.

She said Zambia has a population of 15 million persons, with about 2.8 per cent, representing over 550,000 persons, as aged.

A representative of Edo State Ministry of Women Affairs, Dr. Francis Ohio, appealed to the participants to ensure that the outcome is replicated in states to ensure that all relevant stakeholders are involved in formulating the national policy to delineate the specific roles each should play in meeting the needs of the elderly.

34

T H I S D AY • WEDNESDAY,JULY 6, 2016

EDUCATION

‘End Nigeria’s Dependence on Foreign Solutions with Science, Tech’ Peace Obi Considering the critical role of science and technology in the overall development of every nation, Nigerian students have been advised to embrace the study of science and technology to end the country’s over-dependence on foreign solutions.

Speaking during the 2016 Science and Humanity Day of Loral International Nursery and Primary School, FESTAC, Lagos, the Head of Department, Mr. Christian Ndujihe, said the event was organised as part of the school’s its academic activities to showcase some of the unique learning experiences of the pupils.

Stating that the bedrock of science and technology lies with the study of science-related subjects, especially from the primary school level, the Ndujihe said it would pave the way for the country to come up with great scientists and inventors of different solutions. He said parents have a role to play, which includes motivating their children to

develop interest in sciences.

“Nigerian children should begin now to embrace the study of science and technology so that the country in the nearest future can depend on them for its home-made solution to its technological needs. They need to pay good attention to their studies and especially to their teachers.

“Parents should support their children in every necessary area, especially when they are required to provide some learning materials that will aid their understanding of what they are being taught in schools.

They should make materials available for their practicals.”

The HOD added: “Today we organise this event to inculcate scientific knowledge and bring the aspect of humanity into it.

This is because we do not only discover new knowledge through our scientific studies; we add aesthetic, beauty to it. So we are combining three things - science, technology and humanity- in order to solve human problems.”

According to the Headmistress, Mrs. Cecilia Elendu, “today is also ‘a day with

my child in school’. The programme gives parents the opportunity to have a feel of what their children’s daily routine in school is like.

“They join us in the assembly after which they go the classroom with their children. It gives them the opportunity to partake in the normal classroom activities for that particular day, experiencing how their children are taught and the children’s response to classroom work and render assistance to the child where necessary.”

The programme, which featured events like aerobics and a novelty match between teachers and parents, had teachers defeat the parents with one goal to nothing.

The pupils exhibited their skills in bead making, baking, power generation, food processing and laboratory research. While the Food and a Nutrition Department baked doughnuts, the Engineering Department built an electric box where good and bad conductors are checked. The department also demonstrated how electricity can be generated through either water or sugar solution and that one side of the conduct could be used to produce bleach.

PROMOTING READING CULTURE

L-R: Pastor-in-charge, RCCG Lagos Province 34, Mrs. Shola Balogun; Assistant Pastor-In-charge, RCCG Lagos Province 34, Steve Mayo; Education Secretary, Ikeja LGA, Alhaja Risikat Shittu; Assistant Pastor-in-charge, RCCG Lagos Province 34, Demola Balogun; and an officer from Ikeja LGA, during the donation of a mini-Library to Ikeja LGA in Lagos ...recently

RCCG Donates Mini Library to Lagos Schools Martins Ifijeh As part of efforts to tackle the declining quality of education in the country, the Apapa Family of the Redeemed Christian Church of God (RCCG) has donated a mini library to primary schools within Ikeja Local Government Area of Lagos State.

Speaking on behalf of the family during the presentation of the library to Ikeja LGA, the Pastor-in-Charge, RCCG Lagos Province 34, Mrs. Shola Balogun, said the move was in line with the corporate social responsibility of the church in the area of providing quality education for the youths.

“The quality of education we had in our time is much different from what is obtainable now, hence our resolve to be part of the process of providing sound education for our children,” she said, adding that the educational materials donated by the church will spur the pupils in the 10 benefiting schools for increased reading culture. She said the Apapa Family would continue to partner government-owned institutions in providing succour for the needy, less privileged and children in the society.

She commended the state government for giving priority to the education of the children, saying, “we were

pleasantly surprised when we got here because we were not expecting to see an organised school system such as this.

The school environments are neat, classrooms are clean, and there also exist here properly built classrooms. This therefore has made our job easier; the children can use the libraries better in this condition.”

The Education Secretary, Ikeja LGA, Alhaja Risikat Shittu, said the donation will in no small measure improve the quality of education children in schools under the LGA will be exposed to.

“Without instructional materials it will be difficult to impart knowledge in our

children and today we are glad that RCCG has brought a timely intervention to us.”

She called on other organisations and well-meaning Nigerians to emulate the gesture, adding that no government can do it alone. “Providing adequate education to our children cannot be done by a single entity. When every stakeholder in this country contributes their quota to the improvement and development of the state, it will greatly speed up government’s plan for a better state. The role of publicprivate partnership cannot be over-emphasised in providing dividends of democracy to the citizenry.”

Abegunde Emerges Bowen Varsity’s Pro-Chancellor A frontline Chartered Stockbroker, Oluwole Abegunde, has been appointed the ProChancellor and Chairman, Governing Council of Bowen University. He succeeds the late Gamaliel Onosode.

Abegunde, the Managing Director of Meristem Securities Limited, will bring to the university’s governing council a wealth of experience spanning over two decades in public and private sectors.

Abegunde, who holds bachelor’s degree in Agricultural Economics and Master of Business Administration, is a Fellow of the Chartered Institute of Stockbrokers (CIS) of Nigeria.

A boardroom expert, he is currently on the council of the Nigerian Stock Exchange, Berger Paints Plc, Meristem Registrars Limited, FTN Cocoa Processing Plc and Etranzact International Plc and Integrated Diaries.

University Life Currently, parents are anxious about the life-style of their children in our Nigerian Universities and other Higher Institutions of Learning. By October/November, some parental concerns would nestle in worries about their children’s ability to independently stay healthy in college. Parents would worry that they won’t be physically present to take care of them. Their young adults would be on their own for the first time and would have to manage everything from food to lectures.

On the part of the young entrants, here is a new found sense of freedom, coupled with an added responsibility of doing well academically, plus the weight of time management .The health status of any college student plays a very important role in their academic life. Proper health is required for a student to perform well. Here are some important tips to help students along their way: Food and Drink The first thing in the morning you should do is eat a full and healthy breakfast. Breakfast is judged to be the most important meal of the day. Having a proper breakfast compensates for any inadequate or untimely meals later. Instead of keeping crisps and packet snacks in your room, it is better to keep nutritious foods like fruits and nuts. Junk food is a popular choice among students as they may not have time to prepare a proper meal.

Eating junk food may be fine occasionally but do not make it a regular habit. Avoid skipping meals. If you are running late, eat a quick, light meal, so that your body does not run out of energy to survive the whole day.

Eat in moderation to avoid overeating. Space and vary your meals every day so that your body gets proper nutrition. Drinking lots of water helps in weight control and also increases concentration. Water helps in keeping your body hydrated. Keeping a bottle of water in your bag is an excellent idea.

College students party a lot and invariably consume a lot of alcohol. If you drink, make sure that you drink moderately. By so doing, your calorie intake is kept at a minimum and certain negative effects like: joy-driving, drunkenness and hangovers are avoided. Play down on beers and fizzy drinks. Juices, apart from being nutritious also contain less calories compared to fizzy drinks. Sometimes, indulging in foods which cannot be eaten every day is not a bad idea. This helps to keep the craving you have for your favourite food at bay.

Doing simple exercises like push-ups or crunches every morning is a great way to start the day and to maintain fitness levels. Walking around the campus to classes and taking the stairs is a good way to exercise your feet muscles. Many colleges provide students with free gym facility and sport centres. Make use of these by ensuring that you make some time off to have a workout daily.

Taking up a sport and playing it regularly is a great way to maintain your optimum fitness levels. Playing sports also helps you make new friends and bond with them.

Cycling around the campus is a great option for people who dislike walking. Cycling is one of the best exercises for anyone to improve his/her overall body fitness.

Seven-nine hours of uninterrupted night’s sleep is ideal for college students. A short nap during the day may also be good for your brain. It works wonders for the energy levels in your body. If possible, stick to a proper daily fixed schedule for going to bed a night and waking up in the morning. This helps your body get adequate rest. Roommates inadvertently, interrupt sleeping hours.

Inform them on your preferred sleeping hours. Avoid staying up all night for whatever reason. Lack of proper sleep may have an adverse effect on your health and alertness. Insufficient sleep may also make you disoriented in class. Stress is a risk factor for mental health issues.

Stress should be avoided at all cost. Stress strikes when an individual is over loaded with mental processing.

Taking out time from your daily routine to do other activities apart from college work would go a long way in relieving stress. Maintain a daily routine, which has a balance of work and fun so that your mind gets some rest. There might be a few occasions, especially during exams that your stress levels go up due to anxiety.

Take short breaks during your revisions to divert your attention and in so doing, relieve stress. A lot of campuses have programmes such as religious fellowships, meditation, yoga, drama, and so on, which help in relaxation.

Keep an eye out for these and make good use of them.

Hanging out with friends is a great stress buster. Pursuing certain hobbies like painting, writing poetry or playing out-door games can also relieve stress.

Keeping fit in college takes a good measure of selfdiscipline. Make the most of your time in college and practice good habits. Good habits stay with individuals throughout life!

Omoru writes from the UK

35

T H I S D AY • WEDNESDAY,JULY 6, 2016

EDUCATION

End Child Poverty, Experts Tell West African Leaders Uchechukwu Nnaike A group of experts hosted by the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS), UNICEF, the International Labour Organisation (ILO) and other organisations have called on West African leaders to eradicate child poverty.

In a communique, the experts also highlighted the need to monitor child poverty with separate measurements along geographic, gender and socio-economic lines.

The call to action is the outcome of an international conference on Child Poverty

and Social Protection, held at the ECOWAS Commission in Abuja recently. The conference was organised by ECOWAS, UNICEF and the ILO, along with academic networks Comparative Research Programme on Poverty (CROP) and Equity for Children. It was attended by 70 noted regional and global experts and academics.

The experts regretted that the region’s considerable overall economic growth in recent years has not resulted in improvements in the lives of vast numbers of children, many of whom still lack access to proper nutrition, basic

healthcare, education, clean water and housing.

They said since the publication of a UNICEF global study on childhood poverty in 2003, there has been an expansion of policies aimed at addressing the multiple factors that feed into the problem in Sub-Saharan Africa. Nevertheless, in most countries, inequalities and social exclusion continue to fuel the persistence of high levels of child poverty.

According to the UNICEF Regional Advisor on Social Policy, Gustave Nebie, “child poverty is not only about monetary poverty, but about

the actual deprivations children are experiencing. Children have a right to education, healthcare, information, nutrition, housing, clean water and adequate sanitation. We must ensure our children are free from crippling deprivations today- and enable them to grow into the leaders we need for the future.”

It was stated that as different Sub-Saharan countries battle a range of health and environmental crises, the negative effects on child welfare deepen and expand to varying degrees across the region. Also epidemics such as Ebola, natural disasters includ-

ing flooding and droughts, and armed conflicts can all counteract improvements that have been made.

The experts noted that factors that can be addressed by economic policy, such as poor working conditions, low salaries and high unemployment, can have an even greater impact on child poverty. “Putting policies in place that address these problems is critical to reducing child poverty and creating a better future.” They also emphasised the need for social protection measures such as providing cash grants and subsidies.

The ECOWAS Commissioner, Mamadou Traore said: “Children are not only the most fragile layer in society, they are also the workforce of tomorrow. We must put in place a roadmap for the development and adoption of sustainable policies for the eradication of child poverty and for effective and dynamic social protection in the region.”

Noting the significant role that development partners play in the region, the experts also called on them to place child rights at the forefront of the regional development agenda.

ODL, Future of Nigerian Education, Says JABU VC The Vice-Chancellor, Joseph Ayo Babalola University, Osun State, Prof. Sola Fajana, has described the Open and Distance Learning (ODL) system as the future of the country’s education system.

Fajana, who said this while addressing trainees at the university’s Centre for Distance Learning recently, described it as one of the ways the country can increase access to higher education which is crucial to national development.

The human resource expert stated that JABU is the first private university in Nigeria to commence the programme.

While highlighting past attempts by the university

to make a difference in the country’s education system, he said programmes run by the institution in the past, particularly in compliance with the instructions of the governing council propelled the university to begin the ODL programme.

In his remarks, the facilitator, Dr. Olusoji Adewunmi, stated that the essence of the training was to help staff members familiarise themselves with how the programme works and to ensure its smooth running. He said the programme is scheduled to commence in October 2016 as part of the 2016/2017 academic session of the university.

ANOTHER MILESTONE

L-R:The guest speaker, Mr. Isaac Onoja; Chairman Pace Setter’s College, Abuja, Ken Imansuangbon; his wife and Director of Schools, Mrs. Kate Imansuangbon; and wife of the FCT Minister, Hajia Maryam Mohammed Bello, at the graduation and prize-giving ceremony of the school… recently julius Atoi

College of Medicine Provost Makes Case for Girls

FCT School Develops App on Entrepreneurship

Funmi Ogundare

Olawale Ajimotokan in Abuja

Vivian Fowler Memorial College for Girls, Lagos recently held its 2016 graduation ceremony, where the students were enjoined not to give up on their goals, but to confront every challenge on their path to the top.

The Provost, College of Medicine, University of Lagos, Prof. Folashade Ogunsola, who made this known, challenged them not to settle for less, but to be great, stand out and overcome.

She reminded the girls that despite the fact that women make up about 65 per cent of the population, they are not well represented in organisations because of the fear of failure.

According to the Professor of Clinical Microbiology, who received the distinguished award from the college, “there are challenges that need to be overcome. Women tend to shy away from them because of the fear of failure. Don’t be afraid to fail.”

She named women who have made it to leadership positions in the country, saying, “you have the opportunity to be great. There is no reason why you can’t pursue your dreams, women must mentor women, you must push yourselves to be the best.”

Ogunsola thanked the college for the award, saying that she is honoured and proud to be a role model to the young girls.

The Founder, LEAP Africa, Mrs. Ndidi Okwonkwo Nwuneli, advised the students to dedicate themselves for services to humanity, saying that if they commit themselves to the lives of others, they will excel in whatever they do. “You have to be outstanding and spend time working hard. You have a responsibility to make your parents proud.”

The Pro-Chancellor, Hallmark University, Ijebu Itele, Ogun State, Prof. Wale Omole, who spoke on ‘Your Journey’, described life as a journey which begins with the education they have acquired.

“The journey is such that you must enjoy it, but there is no destination, the journey is going to be smooth, just enjoy it.”

While congratulating the graduands, he advised them to be optimistic about life.

“Nothing should make you downcast. Be determined to make a difference and live a life of meaning and go with good character which is all you have, don’t lose it.”

The Director of the college, Mrs. Olufunke Fowler-Amba, who also congratulated the graduands, said the college awards a full scholarship to the candidates who excel in the entrance examination every year, adding that scholarships are also awarded to deserving students within and outside the school. Prizes were presented to students who exceled in various subjects.

A team of students of the Government Girls Secondary Girls Secondary School, Abaji, Abuja has developed a mobile app on entrepreneurship, a solution set up to boost agriculture and food production in the rural community.

The team known as the Amazons, led by Vanessa Edzuah, thrives in creating wealth through the setting up and management of small business companies.

Its entrepreneurial achievement, which earned it awards in five categories at the Students for Achievement of Global Entrepreneurial (SAGE) 2016 National Exhibition and Awards, has been recognised as it will represent Nigeria at the world SAGE final in Manila, Philippines next month.

The award categories are Best Entrepreneurial Project Award; Best Innovative Project Award; Best Millennium Development Goals (MDGs) Award; Best Sage Teacher Award; and First Position under Socially Responsible Business (SBR).

Edzuah said the team has a business objective to transform into one of the best 500 companies in the country in entrepreneurship. The SAGE business team has established a farmers market in the community to eliminate extortion by middlemen and agents.

The Farmers Market App is a platform that enables farmers sell products on line and increase their profit. Over 500 farmers are currently doing business on the platform and boosting the country’s economy.

The consistent excellence of the school, led by the Principal,

Mrs. Zainab Abaviruku in entrepreneurship, impressed the FCT Permanent Secretary, Dr. Babatope Ajakaiye to donate N1 million as an investment in the school’s business.

Ajakaiye said the FCT administration is happy with the school’s record in entrepreneurial competitions; adding that the investment is to ensure that the business thrives and to encourage other schools to replicate what the school has done.

He also called for the incorporation of entrepreneurial study into schools’ curriculum as the country is transiting from white collar jobs to creating jobs in the agricultural sector.

It was learnt that the school made a total revenue of N7 million and has acquired a large market space where local and foreign investors can converge.

Its business plan centres on succession plan, sustainable development, reaching the grassroots and how to make its service beneficial to the larger society.

In 2013, the school won Junior Achievement Nigeria (JAN) Corporate Social Responsibility Award for using 10 per cent of the profit generated from its business to provide scholarship for two indigent students in its community.

It also won the Best Global Fedex Award in 2013 in JAN Company of the Year in Swaziland, a feat that earned the team a spot on the World Publication Billboard throughout 2014. It was also named the African Regional Company of the year at the JAN national final in Nigeria and 2015 international final in Libreville, Gabon.

A few months from now, you will become students of different prestigious universities all over the world.

“Going to the university brings up new challenges, responsibilities and maturity. You were once treated like children, but now, you will be treated as adults.

The university environment is quite different from what you have been used to. You were born to be great, born to impact the world.”

The Vice-President, Digital

Services and Chief Information Officer, American University of Nigeria (AUN), Mr. Julius Ayuk-Tabe, in his keynote speech, advised the graduating students to be mindful of choices they make in life.

“In life you make choices and eventually your choices make you. In many occasions in our journey through life, we come to crossroads; we are faced with choices and situations where we have to decide based on the options available.

Be Change Agents, Students Told Peter Uzoho The Founder and Chief Executive Officer, Global International College, Mrs. Abolaji Osime, has enjoined students to be responsible in their areas of endeavour, while appealing to them to be agents that would change the trajectory of the country and make positive impact on the world.

Osime, who made this call recently at the 17th graduation and award ceremony of the

school, held at the Redeemed Christian Church of God’s Hall, Lekki, affirmed that the world is desperate for the next generation who are determined to make a difference and that Nigeria is also desperate for youths who will come back to change its course.

“Nearly a year ago, most of you joined us on a journey and today, we are gathering for your graduation ceremony which opens another chapter in your academic journey.

36

WEDNESDAY, JULY 6, 2016 • T H I S D AY

CITYSTRINGS Reintegrating Prisoners into the Society

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

In its quest to reintegrate incarcerated persons into the society, National Open University of Nigeria recently presented degree certificates to inmates of Kirikiri Maximum Prison.

Rebecca Ejifoma writes

Ajogbor receiving his degree certificate from the Director, Learner Support Services NOUN, Professor Nebath Tanglang...recently

R

ecently, the National Open University of Nigeria (NOUN) awarded an inmate of the Ikoyi Prisons, Mr. Albert Ajogbor with a Bachelor of Arts (BA) degree in Theology alongside a certificate of exemption from National Youth Service Corps (NYSC), to Moshood Oladipupo Filaremilekun who graduated last year.

These inmates were honoured at the presentation of certificates to inmates at the Kirikiri Maximum Prisons by the NOUN authorities accompanied by other prison comptrollers and officials both at maximum and minimum security prisons.

Their joy of furthering their education to Master’s level is gradually coming real. This was the feeling in the atmosphere at the just concluded presentation of certificates to deserving students of the National Open University of Nigeria in prison.

“I am sure that a number of their peers who are also incarcerated would like to register to study one of our programmes but for the fact that they have no means of funding their education to improve their destinies they unable to realise their dreams in life,” the Vice Chancellor of NOUN, Professor Abdallah Adamu explained.

It was on the heel of this that he pledged full scholarships to all inmates studying at NOUN. “I have decided to offer 100 per cent full scholarship to all inmates who are undertaking a NOUN degree programme,” he said.

Ably represented by the institution’s Director, Learner Support Services, Professor Nebath Tanglang, the VC noted that already modalities were being worked out to ensure that the process was as seamless as possible.

Undoubtedly, that these inmates may come back into the society to become one’s neighbour, one’s daughter’s classmate or your family member’s new friend. Adamu described NOUN as the only university in the country that provides education to inmates in the nation’s prisons. This is its effort to get them ready for the society again and become better, more enlightened compatriots of the country, who will go and sin no more.

Ajogbor who was given a Golden Fleece by Tanglang, is called “Prison Pastor” by fellow inmates of Ikoyi prison. He graduated with a Second Class in Theology while Folaremilekun, who holds a Peace Studies and Conflict Resolution certificate, received an exemption certificate from NYSC and currently pursuing

Truly, I'm short of words in explaining how I feel.

Indeed, I see myself among heroes, those to move the country forward and make it one of the greatest countries in the world. I want to thank the prison officials for their support and encouragement, all my sponsors as well as my coinmates

Folaremilekun (3rd right) and Ajogbor (2nd right), flanked by prison officialsi, at the award of certificates to graduat

his Master’s Degree at the same institution.

Although these benefactors got this sweet sauce of life while in confinement, Ajogbor expressed gratitude to the school authorities and NOUN officials, who contributed to his great achievement.

“Truly, I'm short of words in explaining how I feel. Indeed, I see myself among heroes, those to move the country forward and make it one of the greatest countries in the world. I want to thank the prison officials for their support and encouragement, all my sponsors as well as my co-inmates."

He explained further: "The prisons, as reformative centres, are living up to their mandates, having provided the enabling environment that led to them furthering their education."

Interestingly, Folarinmilekan, called Olowo, is the same inmate, who approached THISDAY during the matriculation ceremony of new students into NOUN at the Kirikiri Minimum Security Prisons last year.

This inmate pleaded to the government both at state and federal levels to grant him alongside others, who have been in prison for almost 35 years amnesty. “I have been here for 25 years now. I have tried. I need to see my family in Oyo State. Please, help me tell the government. Help me tell my governor," Folarinmilekan pleaded then.

In addressing students of the foremost university, the VC lauded the graduates. “Acquiring the degree is a commendable feat, which would serve as a stepping stone to greater heights for them.”

Although Adamu assumed the post of the VC recently, he explained that due to shortage of sponsorship offers for inmates and the

need to help make the journey of producing a university degree a little less daunting and more achievable, the university over the years supplied course materials for free and paid 50 per cent of payable fees for inmates.

According to him, the other 50 per cent were paid for by philanthropic bodies such as religious and non-governmental organisations as well as well meaning Nigerians. “May I use this opportunity to thank the sponsors for their generosity and contributions towards the inmates’ education,” the VC said.

Therefore, seeing their enthusiasm towards reaching their peaks, he assured them that plans were on to upload all their course materials on the I-Learn platform, which would subsequently be downloaded in their computers for easy access.

Speaking to newsmen at the occasion, the Controller of Prisons in charge of Lagos Command, Timothy Tinuoye, said one of the greatest challenges facing the inmates in the institution was that of inadequate facilitators.

He appealed to both the state and the local governments to assist the facility by sending some NYSC members and even full time teachers to assist the inmates in their quest for knowledge.

“We are in dire need of teachers for these people especially at the secondary school level.

We all know today that the prison is not just to keep offenders in custody, but rather to reform and get them re-integrated into the society.

“Now, we discover that some of them came here without any form of basic education. We feel that giving them education will be one of the best values we can entrench in them in an attempt to change their orientations and

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CITYSTRINGS

ting inmates of NOUN...recently

Folaremilekun receiving his degree certificate from the Director, Learner Support Services NOUN, Professor Nebath Tanglang...recently

We are in dire need of teachers for these people especially at the secondary school level. We all know today that the prison is not just to keep offenders in custody, but rather to reform and get them reintegrated into the society

A cross section of participants during NOUN graduation ceremony prison inmates...recently

Participants during NOUN graduation ceremony for prison inmates

perspectives about life and thinking, towards making them better citizens,” he said.

Tinuoye added that of the 75 inmates enrolled into NOUN, 59 of them were from the Maximum Prisons. “Although the inmates are doing very well in their academics and should be encouraged, the teachers shouldn’t be left out; they need to be kindled, too.”

As the occasion was drawing to a close, the inmates – including females from maximum and minimum security prison Kirikiri and Ikoyi, smiled and congratulated the celebrants. They had enough time to exchange pleasantries. It was an opportunity to stand with dignitaries of the schools and the Command to have a group photo. Although their joy may still be on the way, at that moment everything seemed so right.

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WEDNESDAY JULY 6, 2016 • T H I S D AY

INTERNATIONAL

email:foreigndesk@thisdaylive.com

Theresa May Wins Contest to Become Next Conservative Leader, UK’s PM

Home Secretary Theresa May has comfortably won the first round of the contest to become the next Conservative leader and UK prime minister.

Mrs May got 165 of the 329 votes cast by Tory MPs. Andrea Leadsom came second with 66 votes. Michael Gove got 48.

Liam Fox, who came last with 16 votes, has been eliminated.

Stephen Crabb, in fourth with 34 votes, has dropped out.

Further voting will narrow the field to two.

The eventual outcome, decided by party members, is due on 9 September.

Follow the latest developments on our live page Following the result, frontrunner Mrs May - who campaigned for the UK to stay in the EU

- received the backing of Mr Fox, a former defence secretary and Brexit campaigner, and Mr Crabb, the work and pensions secretary, who backed Remain.

But Mr Gove, the justice secretary and a leading Leave campaigner, insisted he would stay in the race, saying the winner should be someone who backed Brexit.

Mrs Leadsom, an energy minister, was also a key figure in the campaign to leave the EU, appearing alongside Boris Johnson in some of the TV debates.

The leadership contest was sparked by David Cameron’s decision to step down as prime minster after the UK voted by 52% to 48% to leave the EU, in the 23 June referendum.

The prime minister, who had campaigned strongly for a Remain victory, said “fresh leadership”was required as the UK negotiates its exit from the European Union.

Media captionStephen Crabb: “I’ll be lending my wholehearted support to Theresa May”. The process of choosing a successor - and the new prime minister - began

yesterday, as 329 of the 330 Conservative MPs took part in a secret ballot between 11:00 and 18:00 BST. The result was announced half an hour later by Graham Brady, the chairman of the 1922 committee of backbench Tory MPs, with Mrs May securing a comfortable lead over her rivals.

Mrs May - who has said she will deliver Brexit if PM - said she

was“pleased”with the result and “grateful” to colleagues for their support.

She said there was a“big job” ahead to unite the party and the country following the referendum, to“negotiate the best possible deal as we leave the EU”and to“make Britain work for everyone”.

She added: “I am the only candidate capable of delivering these three things as prime

minister, and tonight it is clear that I am also the only one capable of drawing support from the whole of the Conservative Party.”

Mr Fox - for whom this is his second shot at the Tory top job, after he came third in the 2005 contest which Mr Cameron won - said he was “disappointed” to be knocked out, but did not regret standing.

Six Disfigured Corpses Found along Congo River Bank The badly beaten corpses of six young men were found at the weekend at the edge of a river in Democratic Republic of Congo’s capital, the United Nations said yesterday and called on authorities to investigate.

The bodies were found along the banks of the Ndjili River in Kinshasa’s Limete commune, the director of the U.N. Joint Human Rights Office (UNJHRO) in Congo, Jose Maria Aranaz, told Reuters.

“We are concerned by the finding of six corpses of young men on the river banks and we offer all our support so that a transparent investigation takes place promptly to dispel rumours,”Aranaz said.

According to a 2014 UNJHRO report, police executed at least nine men in a 2013-14 anti-gang operation in Kinshasa, dumping some of the bodies into a river.

New York-based group Human Rights Watch said at least 51 people were killed in the operation with some of the bodies dumped in

the larger Congo River.

Congolese authorities deny that it conducted the executions or dumped bodies. Last month, the government announced a fresh crackdown on Kinshasa’s notoriously violent street gangs, known as kulunas. Kinshasa’s minister of security, Emmanuel Akweti, told Reuters that authorities will launch an investigation but that they did not yet have any theories to explain the deaths.

Witnesses and a local police officer said the bodies were discovered by fishermen on Sunday morning.

They said the men appeared to be in their 20s and their faces and necks were swollen and severely disfigured. Photographs of two of the bodies seen by Reuters show them lying on the river bank with apparent bruising on their necks and shoulders. Residents said drowning victims sometimes wash up on the shores but they have never seen so many bodies at once.

Mandela’s Family Angered

by South African opposition Using Mandel’s Voice The family of the late Nelson Mandela is furious that a recording of the revered South African leader’s voice is being used by the main opposition party for campaigning in local government elections due to be held next month.

In a campaign ad, which the Democratic Alliance (DA) posted on YouTube at the weekend, a young woman steps into a voting booth as Mandela’s voice is heard calling for justice, peace, work and bread. The woman then makes her mark next to the DA logo.

“The DA is doing it to benefit a party which Mandela was not a member of,”Mandla Mandela, the grandson of the former president and a member of the ruling African National Congress (ANC) party in parliament, told the ANN7 news network.

The ANC, which Mandela

was a long-time member of and once led, has been in power since the end of apartheid in 1994. But it faces a stiff test in local elections on August 3.

The DA hopes to capitalise on a poorly performing economy and allegations of corruption against the ANC. Responding to criticism from the Mandela family, the DA defended its use of his words. “This great man stood for a nonracial South Africa,” said DA spokesperson Refiloe Nt’sekhe.“The DA is the only party able to take South Africa to the nonracial future it needs.

To say that Mandela does not belong to all South Africans is atrocious.” Online media outlet News24 reported that the Mandela family had appealed to the electoral authorities to take action against the DA

PRESIDENTIAL GREETINGS

President Obama greets local residents as he leaves after an interview with Anthony Bourdain at a shopping area of Hanoi , Vietnam….yesterday

Tanzania Launches Crackdown on Child Marriage Tanzanian men who marry schoolgirls or get them pregnant now face 30 years in prison as the government takes tougher measures to tackle child marriage and teenage pregnancy.

The east African nation has one of the highest adolescent pregnancy and birth rates in the world, and 21 percent of girls aged 15 to 19 have given birth, according to a 2015/16 survey conducted by the Tanzania Bureau of Statistics.

While sex with underage girls is already a criminal offence, poor parents often marry off their young daughters for cash using a special dispensation under the marriage law which allows girls as young as 14 to marry with parental or court consent.

But new provisions passed by the parliament in June make it

illegal for anyone to marry primary and secondary school girls under any circumstances. George Masaju, Tanzania’s Attorney General, said the new measure was taken to complement Tanzania’s free education policy, launched in January, and ensure that all girls are able to complete their education. “We are aiming to create a better environment for our school girls to finish their studies without any barriers,” he told parliament. Worldwide, 15 million girls are married off as children every year.

Early marriage not only deprives girls of education and opportunities but increases the risk of death or serious childbirth injuries if they have babies before their bodies are ready. Child brides are often disempowered and at greater risk of domestic and sexual violence

and HIV, experts say.

“Girls who are married off at a young age are being denied the freedom to make informed decisions later in life,” said Eda Sanga, head of the Tanzanian women’s rights group TAMWA. The new Tanzanian law states that“any person who impregnates a primary school or a secondary school girl commits an offence and shall, on conviction, be liable to imprisonment for a term of thirty years.”

To ensure enforcement of the law, Masaju said all school heads will be required to submit a detailed report about students who were married or pregnant to the Education Ministry.

While the government’s move focuses on protecting school girls from“predators”, women’s rights campaigners said greater recogni-

tion of the importance of girls’ education is crucial to the battle against child marriage. “I think we ought to focus on imparting life skills to girls in school, so that they can be assertive to say no,” said Leila Sheikh, a Dar es Salaam-based women’s rights activist and blogger.

And girls who are kicked out of school for getting pregnant should be allowed to return to their studies after giving birth, said 21-year-old Emily Nyoni, who was expelled from her Dar es Salaam school in 2012 after falling pregnant. “I think it is wise to punish men who impregnate school girls,” she told the Thomson Reuters Foundation. “But the government should also allow those who get pregnant to go back to school.”

Thailand to Free Seven Activists on Bail as Referendum Looms A Thai military court has ordered the release of seven activists detained for campaigning against a military-backed draft constitution to be put to a referendum next month.The pro-democracy campaigners are part of a small but growing number of activists who are challenging the junta in the run-up to the Aug. 7 vote on a constitution that the military says will end more than a decade of political crisis.

The seven were arrested in June while they were handing out leaflets

urging people to vote against the charter which critics say will entrench the military’s influence over politics.

“Police have completed their interrogation, so there is no need to keep the suspects in custody further,”a judge told a court in the capital, Bangkok.

The seven will be released on Wednesday. With a month to go before the referendum the junta has taken what rights groups say is a tough stance on opposition to its plans and banned all public discussion of the

constitution.The seven activists were charged with breaching a government order against public gatherings and a law that carries a 10 year jail term for campaigning in connection with the referendum.

The military seized power in a coup two years ago, saying it had to end months of street protests that had paralyzed the government and hobbled the economy.“Vote No is a right,”Rangsiman Rome, one of the jailed activists, shouted to reporters as

he was led out of a prison van upon arrival at the military court.

Rangsiman and the six other activists arrived at the court shackled, a Reuters reporter said, as their supporters gathered outside holding placards.

One read: “End repression. Allow expression”. Another read: “Human, right?”. In a rare show of unity, political parties on both sides of Thailand’s divide have said the constitution is undemocratic.

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INTERNATIONAL

Turkey Jails 17 over Istanbul Attack Turkey jailed 17 suspects yesterday, mostly foreigners, over last week’s suicide bombing at Istanbul’s main airport, which President Tayyip Erdogan described as the work of Islamic State militants from the ex-Soviet Union.

The arrests bring the total number of people jailed pending trial to 30 over the triple suicide bombing at Ataturk Airport, which killed 45 people and wounded hundreds, the deadliest in a series of bombings this year in Turkey. It was followed by major attacks in Bangladesh, Iraq and Saudi Arabia in the past week, all apparently timed for the runup to Eid al-Fitr, the holiday marking the end of the Ramadan holy fasting month.

“The incident is of course completely within the framework of Daesh, a process conducted with their methods,” Erdogan told reporters after praying at an Istanbul mosque at the start of the holiday. Daesh is an Arabic acronym for Islamic State.

Three bombers opened fire to create panic outside the airport before two of them got inside and blew themselves up. The third militant detonated his explosives outside at the entrance to the international arrivals terminal.

“There are people from Dagestan, from Kyrgyzstan, from Tajikistan,” Erdogan said, referring to a mainly Muslim province of Russia’s North Caucasus region, and two former Soviet states in Central Asia. “Unfortunately, people from neighboring northern Caucasus countries

are involved in this business.”

The 17 remanded in custody early on Tuesday included 11 foreigners. All were accused of “membership of an armed terrorist organization”, the private Dogan news agency said.

Thirteen others were jailed on Sunday, including three foreigners. The state-run Andolu news agency said last week that two of the bombers were Russian nationals. One government official has said the attackers were Russian, Uzbek and Kyrgyz nationals.

Moscow says that thousands of Russian citizens and citizens of other former Soviet states have joined Islamic State, traveling through Turkey to reach Syria. Russia fought two wars against Chechen separatists in the North Causcasus in the 1990s, and more recently has fought Islamist insurgents in Dagestan.

Russia and Turkey have been at odds over Moscow’s support for Syrian President Bashar al-Assad and Turkey’s backing of rebels opposed to him, especially since last year when Turkey shot down a Russian warplane near the border.

But recent weeks have seen a thaw in relations between the two countries, with both citing a need to bury their differences to fight the common Islamic State foe. The pro-government Yeni Safak newspaper has said the organizer of the attack was suspected to be a Chechen double-amputee called Akhmed Chatayev. He is identified on a United Nations sanctions list as an Islamic State leader

Floods in China Kill Almost 130, Wipe out Crops Severe flooding across central and southern China over the past week has killed almost 130 people, damaged more than 1.9 million hectares of crops and led to direct economic losses of more than 38 billion yuan ($5.70 billion), state media said yesterday.

Premier Li Keqiang traveled yesterday to Anhui, one of the hardest-hit provinces, where he met residents and encouraged officials to do everything they could to protect lives and livelihoods.

Li was also to visit Hunan province. Heavy rainfall had killed 128 people across 11 provinces and regions and 42 people are missing, state news agency Xinhua reported.

More than 1.3 million people have been forced out of their homes, it said. Weather forecasts predicted more downpours during what is traditionally China’s flood season. Xinhua said more than 1.9 million hectares (4.7 million acres) of cropland had been damaged and another 295,000 hectares had been destroyed,

resulting in direct economic losses of 38.2 billion yuan.

More than 40,000 buildings have also collapsed, it added.

It was not clear how that would affect the summer grain harvest, which was expected to reach 140 million tonnes this year. The stormy weather also took a toll on farm animals. In Anhui, the flooding killed some 7,100 hogs, 215 bulls and 5.14 million fowl, the China News Service reported.

In the southern province of Hunan, torrential rain and flooding had forced more than 100 trains to stop or take detours since midnight on Sunday, Xinhua reported.

In one city, about 3 tonnes of gasoline and diesel leaked from a petrol station on Monday, contaminating floodwater that flowed into a river, it said.

Water in 43 rivers in the middle and lower reaches of the Yangtze River had exceeded warning levels and patrols were monitoring dykes, Xinhua quoted Chen Guiya, an official with the Yangtze River Water Resources Commission, as saying.

responsible for training Russian-speaking militants.

During questioning in court, as reported by Dogan, the suspects denied links to the bombers. One of them, identified as a Russian citizen named as Smail A., said he stayed in a crowded house where he thought he would be able to read the Koran.

“When the police caught us they said terrorists had stayed there previously, but

we didn’t know. I was in that house at the wrong time,” he was quoted as saying during questioning.

A suspect identified as Kamil D., also a Russian citizen, denied knowing one of the bombers, who has been identified as Rahim Bulgarov. “The people constantly changed in the house where we stayed.

Maybe he came and stayed but I don’t know him,” he

said. A third suspect, Turkish citizen Cengizhan C., said he embraced the views of Islamic State after following related groups on Facebook.

“I learned Daesh ideas. I bonded with them idea-wise.

I believed what they stood for,” he said, adding he traveled to the border province of Sanliurfa with the aim of joining them in Syria but had been dissuaded from doing so.

In the wake of the attack, Turkey has beefed up security at airports and train stations, Prime Minister Binali Yildirim said on Monday ahead Eid al-Fitr, which continues until Thursday.

Turkey is a member of a U.S.led coalition fighting against Islamic State. It also faces a separate security threat from a Kurdish insu r g e n c y i n its largely Kurdish southeast.

SAD MOMENT

Relatives of the victims of the Pitakiatwittaya School fire cry after identifying bodies of their loved ones in the northern province of Chiang Rai, Thailand…yesterday

Bangladesh Hunts for Six Accomplices of Cafe Attackers Bangladeshi police yesterday hunted for six members of a domestic Islamist group they suspect helped gunmen attack a Dhaka cafe, as officials began questioning families of the militants for clues as to what turned them into killers.

Gunmen stormed the restaurant in Dhaka’s diplomatic zone late on Friday and killed 20 people, most of them foreigners from Italy, Japan, India and the United States, in an assault claimed by Islamic State.

It was one of the deadliest militant attacks in Bangladesh, where Islamic State and al Qaeda have claimed a series of killings of liberals and members of religious minorities in the past year. The government has dismissed those claims, as it did the Islamic State claim of responsibility for Friday’s attack.

Police believe that Jama’atul Mujahideen Bangladesh (JMB), an outlawed domestic group that has pledged allegiance to Islamic State, played a

significant role in organizing the band of privileged, educated young men who carried out the attack.

“Six members of JMB have been shown as accused in the case. We are trying to arrest them because they could be the mastermind,” Saiful Islam, a senior police officer involved in the investigation, told Reuters.

The JMB has been accused of involvement in many of the killings over the past year and Islam said police were interrogating more than 130 of its members already in custody in the hope of gleaning clues. “We don’t know who is the mastermind behind the attack. We just know that these boys were guided to launch an attack on the restaurant,” he said. Police killed six of the attackers when they regained control of the restaurant, 12-hours after the attack began. Two other suspects are in hospital.

Police on Tuesday also registered a case against five of the six dead at-

tackers, Islam said, which they need to do to begin formal investigations which includes questioning of their families. The five named in the case filing were Nibras Islam, Rohan Imtiaz, Meer Saameh Mubasheer, Khairul Islam and Shafiqul Islam. It was not immediately clear why the sixth man had not been named in the police report.

The attack marked a major escalation in the scale and brutality of violence aimed at forcing strict Islamic rule in Bangladesh, whose 160 million people are mostly Muslim. It has shocked the country, as have details emerging about the well-to-do lives of some of the gunmen, five of whom appeared in photographs posted on an Islamic State website, clutching guns and grinning in front of a black flag.

At least three of the gunmen were from wealthy, liberal families who had attended elite Dhaka schools, in contrast to the traditional Bangladeshi militant’s path from poverty and a madrassa

education to violence. Three of the attackers had been missing since the beginning of the year, police have said, and little is known about where they went.

Two had attended a private university in Malaysia, one of whom, Nibras Islam, was not particularly religious, according to a student who played football with him at a private college in Dhaka between 2009 and 2011.

“We are in touch with investigators in Malaysia and they are sharing all the information but as of now we have not found any links with international militant groups,” Islam said.

One of the dead gunmen was from a poor family and had studied at a madrassa and another hailed from a lower-middle class background, said another senior police official who declined to be identified.

Police said on Saturday five of the attackers were known to authorities and they had previously tried to arrest them. But police have since said little about when and how the men came to be radicalized.

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NEWSXTRA

Ikpeazu: If It were Death Sentence I’d Have Been Executed in Haste Abia elders back governor

EmmanuelUgwuinUmuahia Embattled Abia State Governor, Dr. Okezie Ikpeazu, yesterday said he was lucky to be alive because if the court judgment that annulled his election had been a death sentence, he would have been executed in a haste without opportunity to appeal the sentence.

He expressed this alarm when he received a delegation of Concerned Lawyers who came to pay him solidarity visit at government house, saying that the attempt to hastily implement the judgment of Justice Okon Abang was suspicious.

“The Abuja High Court ruling denied me of the right to exercise my fundamental human rights, which is the right of appeal. So if it was a case of execution, I would have been killed without giving me time to exercise my right of appeal before a court of competent jurisdiction,” he said.

Earlier, the governor had told members of his cabinet, who came on solidarity visit that he had indeed survived a coup plot hatched by all those involved in the “desperate efforts” to unseat him.

“The plot to remove me as governor was a coup d’état. I can’t imagine that somebody who never contested election is seeking to be made a governor through the back door. I can’t understand the rush by INEC to issue Uche Ogah with a certificate of return.

I also can’t comprehend the rush to swear him in,” he declared in bewilderment.

Ikpeazu noted that the inference from the whole circumstances surrounding the bid to remove him was that the motive was not just the issue of tax as implied in the court judgment, alluding that the office of governor was being made to appear as a cash and carry commodity.

“The truth is that it goes beyond the issue of tax. I want to appeal to our Igbo brothers to see politics as a game of a winner and a loser. They should not bring the mercantile business style into politics. It won’t help us,” he said.

The governor told the lawyers that it was regrettable that a peaceful state like Abia was now being presented as a state at war with itself, adding that the political imbroglio had generated so much tension and polarised the state.

Ikpeazu used the forum to thank the lawyers in the state for educating the people of the state on the need to remain calm, “As the desperados had already come into the state to wreak havoc.”

Earlier, the leader of the team, Ogbonnaya Nwannunu said they had come to lend their support to the governor following the political crisis that the state has been plunged into with the attendant unnecessary legal fireworks.

He said the concerned lawyers were aware of the legal summersault that has descended on the state hence “we have come to rob minds with the governor with the aim of finding lasting solutions and the way forward to the current political crisis in the state.”

Nwannunu said having x-rayed the case against Abia governor, the lawyers were of the view that “the whole incident is charade and that it will go in the way of others like it, as it is not the first time such is happening.”

He pointed out that there was no way a person who did not contest governorship election would emerge and become governor, pointing out that the only place where such anomaly occurred was Rivers, adding that the Electoral Act had been amended to prevent future occurrence.

“The case in question made the Electoral Act to be amended, so what is happening in Abia State where a man will dream of being a governor and wake up trying to make his dream a reality, is a rape of democracy and a coup d’état,” Nwannunu said.

According to him, those people planning “this evil” against the state were toying with the lives of Abians, “which we as a group will not allow to stand for the sake of today and the future.”

Meanwhile, prominent political leaders, elder statesmen and traditional rulers from Abia State rose from a high level meeting in Abuja late last night and threw their full weight behind Governor Ikpeazu, in the unfortunate crisis surrounding his mandate.

The meeting which was hosted under the aegis of Concerned Abia Elders by former National Chairman of the Peoples’ Democratic Party (PDP), Prince Vincent Ogbulafor, had in attendance the three senators

Airtel Unveils Regional Office in Kano Telecommunications services provider, Airtel Nigeria, has inaugurated its regional office in Kano State in a move to empower more telecoms consumers, as well as bring its innovative value offerings to the doorsteps of customers.

The office located at 2, Yolawa Street, opposite Mallam Kato Square, Kano was opened recently at a ceremony which was attended by dignitaries including the Assistant Inspector General of Police (AIG), Police Academy, Kano, Mr. Aderele Shinaba; Zonal Coordinator, Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC), Kano

Zonal Office, Mallam Adamu Amshi among others.

Airtel in a statement added that its customers in the city can now buy and register SIM, purchase airtime, data and make enquiries among other services available in the one-stop office.

Airtel’s Regional Head, Retail Showroom and Franchise, Ms. Edero Daro-Idollo; Regional Operations Director, North Region, Mr. Wole Abu and Zonal Business Manager, North-North Zone, Mr. Muhammad Ibrahim, were among the dignitaries who grace the event.

representing Abia State in the National Assembly, members of the House of Representatives and other notable leaders from Abia State.

Reading the communique at the end of the meeting, pioneer Chairman of the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC) and a former governorship candidate in Abia State, Chief Onyema Ugochuku, the leaders faulted the judgment of Justice Abang as perverse and reckless.

They also criticised the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) for its decision to issue a certificate of return to Ikpeazu’s main challenger in the party primaries which produced the gubernatorial candidate for the April 2015 governorship election, Mr. Samson Uche Ogah.

Leaders said: “We have also noted the unseemly haste of INEC to issue the certificate just a few hours after Justice Abang’s order, and in spite of the fact that INEC

had been duly served with a notice of appeal of the said order and the motion for a stay of execution.”

Continuing, the leaders expressed palpable worry at the impression created of a conspiracy involving INEC, to throw Abia State into confusion and anarchy.

Admonishing the federal government not to unwittingly open another flashpoint in yet another geopolitical zone of the country, the leaders condemned in very strong terms, the attempt to set Abia State on fire and create a situation which can only exacerbate the problems which the country is currently contending with in the North-east and Niger Delta.

According to Ugochukwu, spokesperson of the elders, the meeting noted with appreciation the intervention of the AttorneyGeneral and Minister of Justice, Mallam Abubakar Malami (SAN), who has urged the parties to exercise restraint, follow the

rule of law and await the conclusion of proceedings from the appellate courts. The elders aligned themselves with the Attorney-General’s appeal for peace, imploring all parties in the matter to calm down and await the conclusion of matters in the court.

While commending the people of Abia State for maintaining the peace in the face of recent provocations and urging them to remain calm, the meeting restated the faith of Nigerians in the judiciary and expressed optimism that at the end of the situation, justice will be done.

The Concerned Abia Elders paid tributes to the memories of two distinguished Abia leaders, Ambassador Ojo Maduekwe, former Minister of Transport and Foreign Affairs respectively, and Senator Onyekachi Okoroafor, a member of the third republic national assembly between 1992 and 1993.

Dignitaries at the meeting

included: immediate past governor of Abia State and senator representing Abia Central, Theodore Orji; senators representing Abia North and South, Mao Ohuabunwa and Enyinnaya Abaribe; member House of Representatives for Ukwa East and West, Nkem Abonta and National Vice Chairman- South-east, Col Austin Akobundu (rtd).

Also in attendance were former President of the Senate, Senator Adolphus Wabara; Secretary to the Abia State Government, Dr. Eme Okoro; Nigeria’s former Ambassador to Argentina, Chief Empire Kanu; Prof Herbert Orji; Chief Chukwu Nwachukwu; Elder E.O. Adaelu; Prof S.O. Igwe and Engr Solomon Adaelu.

Royal fathers in attendance included: Eze Mathias Nwoko, Eze J.O. Akaliro, Eze Eberechi Dick, and Eze P.M. Okponku. Chief Uche Ihediwa, Chief Eme Kalu and Hon Darlington Nwokocha, we’re also present.

LET’S SEE WHAT YOU ARE DOING

L-R: Director, Ministry of Health , Dr. Evlyne Ngigi, Permanent Secretary , Federal Ministry of Health , Dr. Amina Shamaki; visiting Programme Director of End Fund Organisation , Mrs. Kimberly Kamara; and founder/ President of Amen Health and Empowerment Foundation , Mrs. Rita Aimiuwu Oguntoyinbo, during the working visit of Kamara to the Ministry of Health in Abuja ...yesterday GODWIN OMOIGUI

China’s Support for Nigeria’s Digital Switch Over Project Exciting, Says Lai Mohammed Olawale Ajimotokan in Abuja The Minister of Information and Culture, Alhaji Lai Mohammed, has welcomed China’s decision to support Nigeria in its quest to actualise the transition from Analogue to Digital broadcasting.

He was responding to comments by the Vice-President of the StarTimes Group of China, Ms. Zhao Yueqin, who led a delegation of the company on a courtesy visit to his office in Abuja.

In a statement by his office last night, he said Nigeria was irrevocably committed to meeting the June 2017 Digital Switch Over deadline in order to protect broadcast signals from interference and also to unlock the creative potentials of Nigerians in technology and

content development.

“The process of digitalization is unstoppable and irreversible; it’s not a matter of choice. If we do not follow the world to digitalise and meet the June 2017 target, it means that our telephones, televisions and radios will not be free from interference.

As a matter of fact, planet earth today does not know the extent of the dividends of digitalisation and how far it will go.

“Digitalisation is going to affect the way we perceive and understand broadcasting. It will act as a catalyst to unleash the creative potentials of our youths.

It will also provide the panacea to piracy. It will create so much possibility that will enable Africa leapfrog

and join the next generation of technology,” Mohammed said.

He said his ministry would also borrow a leaf from China, particularly in the area of national re-orientation, having realized that Chinese economic boom and development were underpinned by the discipline of its citizens, their patriotism and dedication.

“This ministry is going to start a campaign very soon to promote national rebirth and value re-orientation, because unless we change our ways and we are able to bring back discipline, integrity and values, the change we are talking about will not take place,” he said.

Mohammed, who expressed delight that the strategic partnership between Nigeria and China is waxing stronger

in various sectors, said the trade volume between the two countries had jumped from $6.9 billion in 2009 to over $14 billion in 2015.

He, however, stressed the need to correct the trade imbalance between the two countries by encouraging Chinese investors to set up factories in labourintensive sectors in Nigeria and also canvassed for the abolition of the five per cent tax levied on agricultural products entering China from Nigeria.

In her remarks earlier, Zhao, expressed China’s willingness to assist Nigeria to realise the digital switch over.

She stated the commitment of China to ensuring that every household in Nigeria has access to digital television signals.

WEDNESDAY JULY 6, 2016 • T H I S D AY

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PDP will Take over Edo, Says Ize-Iyamu Gana, Ikimi, others ask for level playing field Airhiavbere carpets PDP leaders Adibe Emenyonu in Benin City The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) governorship candidate in Edo State for the September 10 governorship election, Pastor Osagie Ize-Iyamu, on Monday flagged off his campaign, assuring his huge supporters and party members that PDP would take over from the All Progressives Congress (APC) in the coming election.

In a carnival-like ceremony, which was hurriedly shifted to the Baptist Convention Grounds in Benin City following the refusal by the state government to release the Ogbemudia Stadium, the PDP candidate expressed gratitude to God and his party supporters for the opportunity given to him to fly the ticket of the party, saying the PDP is blessed with leaders who could change the fortune of the state.

Ize-Iyamu promised to improve on the welfare of the people and respect the traditional institutions as the custodians of the Edo’s heritage.

He said with almost all party notables in the state lining up behind him there was a joint resolve on the part of the PDP to stop the APC from having a “third successive stint’’ in the governorship.

The governorship candidate accused the APC-led government in Edo State of crippling the economic, educational and social activities in the state in the last seven and a half years, assuring that he had a blueprint to turn around the collapsed institutions.

He added: “When we were in government, Bendel Brewery Limited was working and contributing to the Internally Generated Revenue (IGR); Edo

State Courier was working and contributing to IGR, and several other companies. What happened to all those companies? They have been crippled by the APC-led government. ‘’And somebody who said he was the Head of Economic Team, now want to be governor. We should ask him how he destroyed our industries in the state.’’

The former Secretary to Edo State Government (SSG) added that Edo State civil service had never had it this bad, since the state was created, saying the service is totally depleted and is in dire need of new hands.

“It is very difficult to find anyone who has been recruited in the past eight years. That means that everybody in the civil service came in long before now. Many people have died and many have retired, while punitive dismissals have been carried out without regards to extant rules,’’ he added.

“In many places, lots of directors have been summarily dismissed without even taking their cases to the Civil Service Commission. I know that before we left, we injected fresh blood into the system. Young professionals such as lawyers, doctors, engineers, teachers and town planners were employed.”

Both national and state leaders of the party -- including the former chairman Board of Trustees of the PDP, Chief Tony Anenih; the Esama of Benin Kindom, Chief Gabriel Igbinedion; former Foreign Affairs Minister, Chief Tom Ikimi; a member of the Board of Trustees of the PDP, Prof. Jerry Gana; Governor Emmanuel Udom Emmanuel of Akwa Ibom State; many High Benin Chiefs, and other state governor’s representatives

attended the event.

Senator Odion Ugbesia, who represented the National Chairman of the party, Ahmed Makarfi, later presented the party’s flag to the candidate.

Earlier, Ikimi said he was one of those who formed the APC and appealed to President Muhammadu Buhari to allow a level playing field in the state during the election.

He added: “I will campaign with our candidate in the 192 wards of the state, and I appeal to Mr. President to provide a level playing field for this election because Godwin Obaseki (APC guber candidate) has no business in this state.”

Ikimi knocked Governor Adams Oshiomhole’s administration on its policies, saying that all the governor assertions on performance were a sham.

On his part, Ugbesia, said his party was determined to take over the state.

“This is a quick notice to Oshiomhole and other occupants of Edo Government House.

Today we are going to change the keys to Osadebey Avenue; we have brought a new key which we shall hand over to Ize-Iyamu,” he stated.

Prof. Gana also expressed optimism that Ize-Iyamu would bring victory for the PDP and urged the people of the state to support PDP come September 10.

According to the PDP BoT member, “This man will work well, this man will govern well, this man is a Godly man, we must all support him,” assuring the people of the state that their votes will count in the coming election.

Meanwhile, former governorship candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in the 2012 governorship election and aspirant in the just concluded All Progressives Congress (APC) governorship primaries, Major-General Charles Airhiavbere (rtd), has said the duo of Chief Tom Ikimi, Chief Gabriel Igbinedion and Chief Tony Anenih cannot win the September 10 elections for Pastor Osagie Ize-Iyamu.

Airhiavbere who stated this while reacting to the red card issued to Governor Adams Oshiomhole and the APC in the state, urged the PDP leaders to stop toying with the emotions of Edo people.

He said it was unfair for Ikimi to say former President Goodluck Jonathan was an anti-party leader for allegedly ensuring the success of Oshiomhole in 2012.

Airhiavbere noted that the leadership structure the PDP leaders were used to has changed.

The former Director of Nigeria Army School of Administration, said the Edo PDP leaders were jokers to think of defeating Oshiomhole and the APC in the elections.

He lambasted Ikimi for referring to the new general hospital as a glorified clinic when he Ikimi) was paid N350million as a consultant to design the hospital.

Airhiavbere urged the PDP leaders to bow their heads in shame after being part of

a government that rule, and ruined the state between 1999 and 2007.

According to him, “I was the candidate of the PDP in the 2012 governorship elections.

For Ize-Iyamu and Ikimi to say former President Jonathan is an anti-party leader is unfair.

They were unfair to Jonathan as a president of this country and a leader of the PDP as at that time.

“We have reached a stage where PDP leaders should stop toying with the emotions of Edo people. Ize-Iyamu, emergence as PDP candidate is dead on arrival. How can the PDP win elections here when it can abandon its candidate in 2012.”

“In 2011 and 2012, Chief Tony Anenih told the public that he sold his house to lead the governorship campaign but today it is in the public glare that Jonathan sent money for that elections. I was an orphan at the tribunal up to the Supreme Court. I know the role the leaders of the party played during my elections.

177,000 Nigerian Children Die of Pneumonia-related Diseases Annually Segun Awofadeji in Bauchi About 177,000 Nigerian children under five years die annually from pneumonia-related diseases.

This was disclosed at a stakeholders’ meeting by the Executive Chairman of the Bauchi State Primary Healthcare Agency (BSPHA), Adamu Ibrahim Gamawa.

The meeting which held at the Emergency Response Center (ERC) in Bauchi, came ahead of the kick off of the Pneumonococcal Conjugate Vaccine (PVC) in 16 states later this month.

He said the vaccine is aimed at tackling diseases caused by a Bacteria called ‘Streptococcus Pneumoniaea’.

He said the diseases caused by the organism include; pneumonia, meningitis, bacteraemia, Middle ear infection (Otitis Media), sinusitis and bronchitis in children.

According to him, reports have shown that Nigeria is among 10 countries in the world whose children under five are at a great risk of dying from pneumonococcal diseases.

Gamawa noted that the

reports have shown that fatality rates for pneumonia is about 20 per cent and about 50 per cent for meningitis.

He further noted that in Bauchi State, which is among the 16 states in phase three of the PVC vaccine immunisation, it would be administered to children at 356 health facilities across the state.

Other states that would be covered in the PVC Vaccination phase three include; Akwa Ibom, Oyo, Gombe, Kano Kwara, Lagos and Delta States.

Others include Enugu, Zamfara, Nasarawa and the Federal Capital Territory (FCT).

The BSPHA chairman said the vaccine will be routinely administered to the children at six, 10 and 14 weeks.

He also advised parents to observe some preventive measures which he said would help in curbing the disease among children.

Some of the measure, according to him, include general hygiene, exclusive breast feeding for the first six months, reducing indoor air pollution, proper treatment of early symptoms and giving children zinc supplements.

TAKING THE GOSPEL TO EBONYI

Ebonyi State Governor, David Umahi (right), with the General Superintendent of Deeper Life Christian Ministry, Pastor W. F. Kumuyi, during a bible study and special prayer session for the people of the state and government functionaries at the AbakalikiTownship Stadium....Monday

Kogi: Group Appeals to Parties, Seeks End to Varsity Strike Some prominent indigenes of Kogi State have appealed to the university lecturers, who have paralised academic activities at the Kogi State University for sometime now to call off their strike.

In a statement issued at the end of the parley, which was under the aegis of Kogi Professional Forum (KPF), the people appealed both to the Academic Staff of Universities Union (ASUU) and the government to apply the principle of effective dialogue in order to put an end to the protracted face-off.

The statement, which was signed by the National Convener of the forum and Secretary, Ibrahim Ali and Dr. Olushola Mathew, respectively,

also appealed to the school management to consider the efforts of Governor Yahaya Bello so far and call off its strike, which it noted was devastating and demoralising.

KPF while acknowledging that the management of the school was fighting a just course, urged them to also consider that the government of Yahaya Bello has accepted to bear responsible of the burden transferred to his government from another administration, even as the group appealed to the University body to also consider the plight of the students who are the greatest losers in the face-off.

“We are not in doubt that the management of the school strike action is altruistic and intended to improve the general quality

of education in the state. But there is need for the union to reconsider its rigid stance, in view of the counterproductive effect it could have on the educational sector due to the gross distortions in the academic calendars of university and its demoralising effects on the students,” the group said.

The forum also applauded Governor Bello over the renaming of the 15-year-old Kogi State University after the late Prince Abubakar Audu.

It said by re-naming the institution, “Prince Abubakar Audu University.” it was a welcome development aimed at immortalizing the late former governor who worked hard for the progress of the state during his tenure as governor.

The group pledged that it was ready to work with the governor in achieving his dreams for the state, noting that: “Governor Bello has proven that Kogi State can regain its lost glory and that he is a visionary leader ready to make the state a place to reckon with in the nearest future.”

Earlier this year, Bello assured civil servants in the state of the readiness of his government to build an iron-cast relationship with labour in order to deliver good governance to the people of the state and give hope to all citizens of Kogi.

Bello also promised an open-door policy, pledging a government of service to the people with transparency as bulwark of his administration

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WEDNESDAY, JULY 6, 2016 • T H I S D AY

NEWSEXTRA

Financial Expert: AMCON Has Failed to Recover Debts Totalling N4.5tn Says CBN needs to restructure banks in the country

Yinka Kolawole in Osogbo A financial expert, Hon. Tunde Olatunji, has urged the Asset Management Corporation of Nigeria (AMCON) to urgently assist the country in the recovery of over N4.5 trillion debts that are trapped in some establishments in the country to assist in the development of the nation’s economy.

Olatunji who is currently the Chairman House Committee on Commerce, Cooperative, and Empowerment in the Osun State House of Assembly, said the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) also needs to engage in the restructuring of some banks in the country to make them more viable in the development of the economy.

Speaking at a press conference in Osogbo, the member representing Ife-North State Constituency opined that AMCON is solely responsible for the recovery of the debts own government in the country but has failed to do its work for the betterment of the country.

According to him, “the committee was set up in 2008 and up till 2016 they could still not recover any reasonable amount for the government as many trillion are tracked in people’s pockets” He however urged the federal government to look into the issue with a view to nipping the problems on the bud and to get the committee on their toes in order to work for the benefit of which it was set up.

On the issue of failed banks in the country, the financial expert asked the CBN to expedite actions in the total restructuring of all ailing banks in the country.

He said the repositioning of these banks would assist in the over all development of the industry.

Olatunji equally noted that most of the nation’s capitalists stacked the funds in foreign

accounts, while funds are being to develop others countries where it was kept rather than developing our own country economically.

He also observed that both Intercontinental and Oceanic Banks had laid solid foundation for the banking industry in the country therefore the federal government in collaboration with CBN should look at

their restructuring now that economy of the country is not normal.

The lawmaker who also spoke on the privatisation of federal government assets and companies described the entire privatisation process as failure.

He opined that with the current economic problems, the abandoned Osogbo Steel

Rolling Mills and Machine Tools should be looked into in order to revitalise the dead billion investment.

The lawmaker stressed that this time around the country needed these companies to function in order to accelerate economic development of the country and to create employment for unemployed graduates in the country.

Forgery Trial: Enugu Group Blasts APC on Ekweremadu’s Letter Says Enugu APC leaders are ‘desperate job’ The Enugu Peoples Forum has faulted the state chapter of the All Progressives Congress (APC) on the letter by the Deputy Senate President, Senator Ike Ekweremadu, calling the attention of the international community to what he described as endangerment of democracy and trumped up forgery charges against him, the Senate President, and two others.

Reacting to the claim by the state APC that Nigeria was a sovereign nation, hence Ekweremadu ought not to involve the international community in her internal affairs, the group maintained that Nigeria was not only a member of a global village, but also a beneficiary of the generosity of the international community.

In a statement jointly signed by the leaders of the group in the three senatorial districts of the state, namely Hon. Okey Ozoani, Hon. Frank Anioma, and Hon. Martin Oloto, the group said unlike the APC, which sold lies to the world and sabotaged the war against insurgency through arms sales blockade, Ekweremadu had acted responsibly as a former Speaker of the ECOWAS Parliament.

The forum wondered why the Enugu APC, which had kept mute all along in the face of alleged incessant maiming and killings by marauding herdsmen as well as the mowing of unarmed young protesters in the South-east has suddenly found its.

Insisting that the endangerment of democracy in Nigeria holds grave consequences for Africa, the Forum added: “Democracy is endangered when the executive refuses to obey court orders; when virtually every election, especially in the strongholds

of the opposition, is rendered inconclusive; when the AttorneyGeneral of the Federation (AGF) abuses his office and court process for partisan and other vested interests; when the AGF defies parliamentary summons and joint resolutions of the National Assembly; and worst of all, when we go back to the military days of trumped-up charges against people who hold dissenting views with the aim of taking over the parliament, which is the symbol of democracy.”

The EPF emphasised that whereas Ekweremadu merely called the attention and reflection of the international community on the state of the nation, it would go farther by “requesting the international community, which has invested so much in enthroning and sustaining Nigeria’s democracy to take steps to arrest the drift of the nation’s democracy.”

The group said the people of South-east have never had it so bad since the end of the civil war, describing the Enugu APC leadership as “desperate job seekers and insufferable hypocrites” working against the larger Igbo interest.

The forum, however, advised them not to hope for a better treatment than other party leaders in the region considered to have given the present administration only five per cent of its winning votes.

They listed Chief Ogbonnaya Onu, Chief Chris Ngige, Prof Anthony Onwuka, and Mr. Osita Okechukwu as APC chieftains of South-east extraction who ended up with mere third class ministries, junior minister, and a moribund parastatal despite their wellknown efforts at enthroning the APC government.

COURTESY VISIT

Minister of Information and Culture, Alhaji Lai Mohammed (right), and the Vice-President of the StartTimes Group of China, Ms. Zhao Yueqin, when the management of StarTimes paid a courtesy call on the minister in Abuja....yesterday

Ndoma-Egba Pays Tribute to Maduekwe, Aniyom, Ndoma Bassey Inyang in Calabar A former Senate Leader, Victor Ndoma-Egba (SAN), has paid tribute to the late former Minister of Transport, Chief Ojo Maduekewe and Mr. James Aniyom, who served as Chief of Staff to Mr. Donald Duke when the latter served as Governor of Cross River State.

Ndoma-Egba also condoled with the family of late Sir Ray Ndoma, a community leader in Ikom Local Government Area of the state.

In his tribute entitled: “As Ojo Maduekwe earns eternal rest,” which was made available to journalists in Calabar yesterday, Ndoma-Egba said the announcement of the demise of the former minister was “shocking and sudden,” adding that with his demise, “the very lean ranks of intellectuals in the murky business of politics in Nigeria has depleted and very badly so, as he was the giant in that thinly populated club.”

Continuing, Ndoma-Egba stated: “Seminal, cultured and gracious, Ojo represented the noble possibilities of politics, expectably that politics and the intellectualism were not necessary incompatible, that rectitude was possible in politics,

that politics was a highway to public service, and that public service was edifying. His consistency guaranteed his longevity in politics, making him one of Nigeria’s most durable politicians ever.”

Ndoma-Egba who said he received the news of Maduekwe’s death with “great pain and a sense of personal lost,” disclosed that he had “enjoyed a warm friendship and benefited from the penetrating insights of this iconic lawyer , philosopher, and politician.

“He believed in Nigeria, and her prospects till the very end and had great faith in God and served him faithfully while on this mortal plain. And without doubt, he now rest in his bosom.

“My very sincere condolences to his dear wife whose birthday was to be celebrated on July 1, and which event he returned to supervise and the entire family.

It is a painful lost to his family, Nigeria, the global community and indeed humanity. He will be sorely missed,” the former Leader of the Senate stated.

Ndoma-Egba and his family also condoled with the family of Aniyom, through a letter addressed to the wife of the deceased Mrs. Abia James Aniyom.

He stated: “ I received with deep shock and pain the news of the death of your dear husband Mr. James Aniyom, better and fondly known as Jimmy. Jimmy was a quintessential gentleman.

I dealt with him both privately and in his official capabilities; first as Chief of Staff to the governor of Cross River State, and latter as a Commissioner for Agriculture. Whether in his private or official capacities, his honesty and forthrightness were evident. He kept his word in every situation, was humble, assessable, and strongly believed that public service was for service to all regardless of status. Jimmy did not play politics with people.

His stand on every issue was clear, honest and determined by principle. he was large hearted.

His death is a big loss not only to you, the immediate and larger families, but also to his very many friends, Cross River State and Nigeria at large.

“He held out promise that rectitude and humility in public life were possible. We had hoped that he will live to realise his potential.

“Matters of life and death are God’s prerogative. We, therefore, cannot question him, but give him thanks in every situation.

Even in your grieve give him thanks and be consoled by memories of his life and the happiness he brought to those who knew him.”

In his tribute to Ndoma, the former Leader of the Senate described him as “the teacher’s teacher,” saying: “He moulded several generations of young men and women, including mine and me. He belonged to the earliest generation of teachers from Ikom and taught us in the 1960s in Martins Primary School, Ikom where he and the late Kevin Nsor, and early teacher of Nkume extraction also doubled choir masters.”

Ndoma-Egba stated that the late community leader led an exemplary life and “was very active in the catholic church where he was knighted.

Ndoma-Egba who recalled his personal experience with Ndoma while he was alive stated: “I remember him for the interest he took in me right from my childhood for his encouragement and support ,for his love and the pride he took in my strides.”

Ndoma-Egba urged the children and family of the deceased not to be in a mournful state because their father will be remembered for ages.

WEDNESDAY JULY 6, 2016 • T H I S D AY

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NACA Begins Supervision of Utilisation of $225m W’Bank HIV/AIDS Loan to States Hammed Shittu in Ilorin The National Agency for Control of AIDS (NACA) has commenced monitoring activities in the 36 states of the federation including the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Abuja on the proper utilisation of World Bank

$225million loan released to them towards eradicating HIV/AIDS. THISDAY checks revealed that each of the 36 states of the federation and FCT had collected a sum of $5million from NACA being part of World Bank loan released to them to fight HIV/AIDS.

Unpaid Salaries: Don’t Disappoint Workers, NLC Advises Fayose Olakiitan Victor in Ado Ekiti The Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC), has advised Governor Ayodele Fayose not to renege on his promise to pay workers the second salary as early as possible to cushion the adverse economic effects on them.

Workers, under the auspices of the NLC, Trade Union Congress (TUC) and Joint Negotiating Council (JNC) in the state had embarked on four weeks of industrial action to press for the immediate payment of January to May salaries owed by the state government and pension arrears of retirees.

Speaking in Ado Ekiti yesterday, the NLC Chairman in Ekiti, Ade Adesanmi, pleaded with the governor to pay the workers as soon as the expected ‘budget support fund’ enters the state government’s account.

Adesanmi said part of the resolutions reached during the labour unrest was that the government will pay one month salary out of the six owed and will respond swiftly by paying the second one immediately the support fund gets to Ekiti, ‘probably by middle of July’.

The NLC leader urged government to expedite action

on the release of the money, so that the workers won’t lose faith in the government.

Adesanmi , however, praised Fayose for acting promptly as promised by paying the workers the first salary immediately the industrial feud was suspended.

He urged that payment of the second salary immediately support fund is received by government will rekindle the strong tie between Fayose’s government and the entire state’s workforce.

The NLC boss said: “We are hopeful that workers will get their salaries as soon as the budget support fund enters the state government’s account.

“And we learn’t that the process for the release of the fund to the state is almost concluded. We plead that government must press more because there was little the one month salary paid could do for my members.

“Workers were already heavily indebted to the banks, traders and many other places, so we pray that the economy of the country vis-a-viz that of Ekiti improve for workers to return to that glorious era when salaries are paid as and when due.”

Though the World Bank has extended its support on HIV/AIDS till February 2017, NACA decided to move in so as to ascertain the level of the utilisation of financial resources released to states in the country in order to gather more information on the journey so far on the war against HIV/AIDS in the 36 states of the federation.

The development, according to investigations, would also assist the NACA to strengthen its strategies at tackling various challenges that may crop up, thereby ensuring that HIV/ AIDS is eradicated before the year 2030.

Confirming the development with THISDAY in Ilorin, the Kwara State capital on Tuesday, a consultant to NACA, Mr. John Hassan said: “We took a loan from the World Bank

which is classified as a credit of $225million for the whole country and each states of the federation had $5million to implement the project.”

According to him, “It has been implemented over the last four or five years and as at last year, November 30, when the project was suppose to close and we discovered that there was still some balance left because of the good implementation, the World Bank extended to the project till February 2017.”

He said: “Again, the first supervision mission took place in 2015 not 2000.

There were gaps that were identified. The essence here is not to witch-hunt or look for faults. The essence of it is to provide smooth and rapid implementation of the project till 2017 which is just some

months away.

“Kwara State is doing very well. We are pleased with the performance of Kwara State.

We have not had any serious problems from Kwara State but it is still important that we know where we are with the project and what we have achieved because very soon we will have implementation publisher report on the project and that is the essence why we are going round now.”

Also corroborating the visit, the Programme Officer of NACA, Mr. Ade Yusuf Ali, said: “The essence of our visit to Kwara and other states of the federation is on integrated supervisory visit and the visit is to gather data in response to HIV/AIDS in the country and Kwara State in particular and further more to identify

challenges that impede the implementation of AIDS reduction activities.”

According to him, “After identifying those gaps or challenges, we now sit down and try to find solutions to those challenges to boost proposed activities especially with the extension.”

On the journey so far on the fight against HIV/AIDS in the country, the programme officer said: “Referring to when it started, the prevalence rate was very high. It was 15 per cent in some states of the federation. In Kwara State, it was 4.5 per cent before but now it has reduced to 2.3 per cent and nationwide, it is 1.8 now. This shows that there is a great reduction. By year 2030, hopefully, it will be wiped out completely.”

Emmanuel Inaugurates New WE ARE ON GROUND IN EDO A huge crowd of Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) supporters at the flag off of campaign by the governorship candidate in Edo State, Pastor Osagie Ize-Iyamu’s in Benin City...Monday Transition Committees for A’Ibom Councils Edo Guber Race: Former PDP Governors’ Forum DG Okon Bassey in Uyo into the state’s economic blue print for the well-being of the Picks APGA Ticket Akwa Ibom State Governor, Mr. Udom Emmanuel, has inaugurated a nine-member transition committee to pilot the affairs of each of the 31 local government areas of the state.

Addressing the new council’ chairmen, the governor warned them against abuse of office urging them to deliver quality services and prove their mettle by deploying high level of probity in the administration of the councils.

“The office you are sworn into should not be seen as a path to immediate gratification, or one where you would engage in conspicuous excesses, let it remain true to its foundational principle which is predicated on service to the people.

“If you provide selfless service you will be rewarded and such satisfaction can never be quantified. Let this be your guiding principle,” he stressed.

Emmanuel told the transition committee chairmen that true leaders emerge during hard times an urged them to key

citizens “You have been given a chance of a lifetime, run with it, let your talents and skills show, show the people that the choice we had in you was not misplaced. Consider this moment as a platform that can lead you to other possibilities,” he added.

The appointment he said is a lifetime opportunity for the committee members to showcase their leadership potentials and congratulated them on the appointment.

The governor hinted that plans were in place to inject an economic lifeline in the local government system to enable the third tier of government break even in it planned programmes.

According to him, in view of the prevalent economic situation, the state would inject economic stimuli to reduce the hardship in the system. He directed the Ministry of Finance to commence disbursement of Small and Medium Enterprise loans to the people to boost their businesses.

PDP faction candidate picks female running mate

Adibe Emenyonu in Benin City A former Director General of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) Governors’ Forum, Mr. Osaro Onaiwu, has picked the governorship ticket of the All Progressive Grand Alliance (APGA) in Edo State.

This came as Matthew Iduoriyekemwen, the governorship candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in the state under the Ali Modu Sheriff faction of the party, picked the former National Woman leader of the PDP, Herbetta Okonofua, as his running mate for the September 10 governorship election in the state.

Onaiwu’s emerged as the APGA candidate after polling 372 votes.

It would be recalled that Onaiwu who was one of the governorship aspirants of the PDP, pulled out from the party race few weeks to the primaries, after he alleged plans to rig the primaries in favour of one of the aspirants.

Speaking with journalists shortly after emerging as APGA candidate, the former Director General, PDP Governors’ Forum, promised to kick off his campaigns next week, saying, “I am willing to serve my people and we have come up with our four pillars, which is security, trade and commerce, agriculture and industrialisation. Once we are able to achieve those four, then we are home and dry.

“Dangote has come to Edo State to invest because Edo is peaceful, we will improve on what the incumbent governor has done so that we will accelerate development to our people.”

Asked why he left the PDP before the primaries of the party, Onaiwu narrated: “The party leaders were not serious. They lie every day of their lives. For me I have taken my vision to another party that I believe where they will celebrate my vision not a fraudulent party. I have moved on, I have no scandal but we know

that one of the PDP candidates have been visiting the EFCC. “APGA will take over the state, it is a new dawn, I don’t have a god father, God is my god father.

If you look at the candidates of the two other political parties they have a god father but God is my god father. I will lead my people where there is milk and honey” he stated.

Meanwhile, Okonofua is from the Central senatorial district of the state, the area where Pastor Osagie Ize-Iyamu who emerged as the candidate of the Armed Makarfi faction of PDP also picked his running mate from.

Iduoriyekemwen who unveiled his running mate to journalists yesterday, in Benin City said “I promise to ensure women empowerment and if you look at Herbatta, she has always been a PDP leader, she has held several positions both in the state and the Federal and I a glad she will represent the women folk in our

government.”

Asked whether the recent court ruling that sacked Ali Modu Sheriff as National Chairman of the party will not affect his chances, Iduoriyekemwen said: “Before the Federal High Court in Port Harcourt delivered its judgment, Sheriff had at least three judgments saying he is the authentic chairman of the party. And when two courts of coordinate jurisdiction take a decision on a matter, the first in time takes precedence.

“It is only the Court of Appeal that can change the direction of the decision of a lower court.

The judgment of Justice Abang last week is sacrosanct. Sheriff has filed a notice of appeal so it is not an issue.

“We all know that it is only a properly convened convention that can take decision on behalf of the PDP not a caretaker committee,” he stated.

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WEDNESDAY JULY 6, 2016 • T H I S D AY

CRIME&PUNISHMENT Deputy Commissioner, 13 Others Suspended over Kuje Jail Break

Dele Ogbodo in Abuja Ten days after the jail break at the Kuje Maximum Prison in the outskirt of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), which led to the escape of Solomon Amodu and Maxwell Ajukwu, the Civil Defence, Fire, Immigration and Prisons Services Board (CDFIPB), on Monday, approved the suspension of a Deputy Commissioner of Prison (DCP), Mr. Musa Tanko, three senior officers and ten junior officers.

Amodu and Ajukwu, two high profile inmates standing trial for culpable homicide at

the prison facility before the jail break are still at large.

In a statement signed by the Public Relations Officer of the Prisons Service, Mr. Francis Enobore, on behalf of the Controller General of Prisons, Mr. Ja’ afaru Ahmed, in Abuja service, said the suspension was sequel to the outcome of the preliminary investigation of the jail break.

The suspended officers and men included: SIP Buhari Musa Dogo, PIP Stephen Edogbanya J, PIP Patrick Teru, IP Usman Peter, IP Dennis B. Makum, IP Fassan S. Akin, SPA Daka

James and SPA Adamu Luka.

The others are: SPA Zakari Yunasa, PA Asnamal Samuel, PA Ejegwa Patrick, PA 11 Isah Ibrahim and PA 11 Ngede Salifu.

The statement said: “The suspension is sequel to the outcome of the preliminary investigation into the incident and in consonance with PSR 030406 (2008) Revised Version; the officers were suspended from duty to allow for unhindered trial process.

“The commissioned officers among them are to be served with letters of query while the junior staff will be given Form

96 (Charge Sheet ) to explain their role in the unfortunate saga.

Meanwhile, efforts to recapture the fleeing prisoners in collaboration with other security agencies are on-going, adding that this is in addition to tightening security measures in and prison formations nationwide to forestall a repeat of such incident.

“The Controller General wishes to solicit the cooperation of members of the public to volunteer useful information that will assist in the recapture of the fugitives,” the statement added.

In Brief

Two Killed, Several Injured During Street Carnival A street carnival by some youths in Ondo City ,late on Monday, turned tragic as two persons lost their lives in the fracas that ensued during the celebration. THISDAY gathered that the incident, which also led to injuries, occurred during the celebration organised by some youths in Kogbona Street in the city. The incident which led to the death of the two persons, was the climax of an earlier confrontation between two rival groups but which was resolved by the intervention of some elders in the area.

Prior to the outbreak of the crisis, the youths, who adorned branded vests, were said to be in joyous mood as they danced to music from a band mounted on a truck before the procession was intercepted at a junction by some boys suspected to be cultists. The intruders were said to have started shooting indiscriminately when they accosted the carnival procession. In the confusion, one Afusat Ayodeji, was said to have been hit by a bullet and died on the spot.

The death of Ayodeji was said to have led to a free for all by rival cult groups which led to the death of another person whose identity was not known as at the time of filing this report. The timely intervention of men of the Nigeria Police from Enu Owa Division saved what could have led to total breakdown of law and order as they were quickly mobilised to deal with the situation. When contacted, the Divisional Police Officer (DPO) in charge of Enuowa, Mr. Kunle Omisakin, confirmed the arrest of two persons in connection with the incident. Omisakin said information about the incident had been forwarded to the appropriate section at the police at the command headquarters in Akure, the state capital just as investigation had commenced on the matter.

Gunmen Abduct Expatriate Contractor in Lagos

LEADERSHIP BY EXAMPLE

Chief Army Staff, Lt. General Tukur Buratai (middle) with some soldiers at the battlefield in Borno State....yesterday

Traditional Rulers Condemn Ojota Violence, Task Security Agencies

BRT operator put loss incurred at N139 million Gboyega Akinsanmi Traditional rulers in Ikorodu Division of Lagos State havecondemned in strong terms The recent Ojota violence, which culminated in the vandalisation of 48 high-capacity buses belonging to the bus rapid transit (BRT) operator, Primero Transport Services Limited.

The monarchs, who were led by the Ayangbure of Ikorodu, Oba Adewale Shotobi and the Ranodu of Imota, Oba Ajibade Agoro, also lamented diverse criminal activities currently undermining public order in Ikorodu Division.

They condemned the act of violence during a visit to the head office of Primero Transport Services Limited, Ikorodu on Monday, thereby tasking all security agencies in the state to rescue Ikorodu and its environs from criminal activities.

After inspecting the damaged

vehicles, Agoro lamented that the residents of Ikorodu and its environs “are the people that feel the direct impact of the act of violence that led to the damage of 48 high-capacity vehicles.”

Agoro, who spoke on behalf of all the monarchs from Ikorodu Division, noted that the attack that led to the vandalism of 48 buses was not justifiable while acknowledging the loss of life in the incident could not be quantified.

He noted that it was not the best option “to resort to illegal activities to seek redress. We have laws; we should not trample upon our laws. If we all obey our laws, all these acts of violence would have been averted. There is a law that proscribes street trading. If this law was obeyed, the street trader would not have died.”

The monarch, therefore, appealed to all residents of the state “to always explore amicable

means of settling differences or scores, rather than resorting to illegal self means of taking laws into their hands.”

While sympathising with the BRT operators on the loss incurred, the monarch condemned the act of violence in its entirety, thereby calling on the police authorities “to rise up to the occasion by nipping in the bud any criminal act. Our investigations showed that it was not the BRT vehicle that killed the street trader.

He lamented the activities of the pipeline vandals in some Ikorodu communities, tasking the police “to arrest the trend. We, traditional rulers, are helpless.

We are concerned because this buses ply our routes thereby, helping our people to transact their businesses with ease. We can’t really quantify the loss.”

After receiving the monarchs at the head office, the Managing Director of the Ikorodu-CMS

BRT operators, Mr. Fola Tinubu put the loss incurred as a result of the attack on 48 high-capacity buses to N139 millions.

The managing director lamented that what the company lost “is a huge threat to our investments in Lagos, Nigeria’s commercial hub. What we lost is a disincentive to private investment in Nigeria.”

He explained that the loss was a clear setback “to investment drive. Nigerians must be educated to draw a line between private investment and public assets. No amount of provocation justifies the destruction of our buses.

“We have provided over 2,500 jobs since commencement of operations in November 2015 and still counting. Our royal fathers should help us appeal to the people on the need to eschew violence at every provocation and embrace peaceful means of resolving differences at all

In what was described as the act of undermining the effort of the Lagos State Government to ensure security of lives and properties in the state, a group of gunmen on Monday evening kidnapped an expatriate engineer working with Granebury Construction Limited in Epe area of the state.

The expatriate was kidnapped at the project site of the multi-million-naira dualisation of Epe-Ijebu expressway and rehabilitation of some strategic, arterial and innercity roads in Epe Local Government Area at large. The kidnappers are yet to demand ransom. Consequently, the state Police Command launched rescue operations, which it said, was directed at safely securing the release of the expatriate and arresting the perpetrators of the abduction.

An Epe resident, who spoke with THISDAY yesterday, anonymously, said the police command had stationed armoured personnel carriers (APCs) at the project site and other strategic locations across the local government.

Aside the deployment of APCs to strategic locations, the resident added that the police command also launched aerial surveillance in Epe and its environs in a bid to rescue the kidnapped expatriate. At the press time, the police had not had much breakthrough in securing the release of the kidnapped expatriate, whose identity had not been released. However, the police has been in serious manhunt for the kidnappers. In a text exchange with journalists, the Police Public Relations Officer (PPRO), Mrs. Dolapo Badmus confirmed the abduction of the expatriate, of whom she said, rescue operation was ongoing to secure his release.

In a phone conversation, however, the Commissioner for Works and Infrastructure, Mr. Ganiyu Johnson, declined to comment on the incident, noting that it was unethical for him to grant interview on phone. He said it “is unethical for me to grant an interview on phone because I do not know you. Aside, you can also misrepresent me. So, you can get in touch with the Public Affairs Unit of the Ministry of Works.” Although his identity had not been disclosed, THISDAY checks showed that the expatriate was one of the top engineers of Granebury Construction Limited currently redeveloping the Epe-Ijebu road dualisation project, the site from where the expatriate was abducted on Monday evening. Due to outright neglect the Nigeria Police had suffered, the state government had been providing strategic support to the state police command its Security Trust Fund (LSSTF) in the last decade. Since its establishment by a law of the Lagos State House of Assembly on September 3, 2007, the LSSTF had raised N3.260 billion in cash and N9.201 billion in assets, totalling N12.462 billion. But with the upsurge in armed robbery and other sundry crimes, Ambode invested N4.756 billion to procure the security equipment, which according to LSSTF statistics, brought what the state government had invested in funding security agencies in the last decade to N17.218 billion.

45

T H I S D AY •WEDNESDAY JULY 6, 2016

WEDNESDAYSPORTS Mikel Confirmed for Rio Olympics

Group Sports Editor Duro Ikhazuagbe Email duro.ikhazuagbe@thisdaylive.com

Chelsea midfielder John Mikel Obi will feature at the Rio Olympics after initial fears he will not, according to Nigeria Olympic team coach Samson Siasia.

Siasia himself had raised fears over the availability of the Chelsea midfielder as one of the over-aged players for the Olympics in August.

But he has now confirmed Mikel will feature in Rio in August.

“Mikel has confirmed his availability,” Siasia disclosed.

“We have some other players who have promised to join us and they have shown commitment like Wilfred Ndidi, who has assured us that he will join us in America.

“Other players who will be available are goalkeeper Daniel Akpeyi and Kenneth Omeruo.

These are the players who are confirmed for now.”

This should be some cheering news for Siasia, who will be without several players not released by their foreign clubs.

Siasia is however disappointed that after Alex Iwobi and his father failed to keep the promises they made to him over the Arsenal forward’s participation at the Rio Olympics.

“Alex Iwobi is not coming.

I tried to call his father, but he wasn’t picking my calls. He used to call me frequently when he wanted his son to play for the country, but now that we need his son for the Olympics football tournament, he is not picking my calls,” lamented Siasia.

“But there is no problem, Alex

remains my boy, I love him like my own son, but I am just disappointed that he and his father couldn’t keep the

his international allegiance from England to make his debut for the Super Eagles last year.

Arsenal’s Alex Iwobi, Watford striker Odion Ighalo and Kelechi Iheanacho of Manchester City opted out

of the tournament after their clubs blocked them as the Rio2016 football tournament is not on the FIFA calendar.

MOURINHO BEGINS UNITED JOURNEY…

Newly appointed Manchester United Manager, Jose Mourinho, began his adventure at Old Trafford yesterday with so much confidence. The Portuguese coach said he is ready for the task of rebuilding United, insisting: “I am where I want to be.” (See Story on Page 47)

Afelokhai, Ifeanyi Matthew Lead NPFL All-Stars for La Liga Tests Enyimba goalkeeper Theophilus Afelokhai, Kano Pillars star midfielder Ifeanyi Matthew and Rangers forward Chisom Egbuchulam have been named on a 35-man squad to open training camp in Abuja Monday ahead of a series of matches in Spain next month.

A letter signed by the Chief Operating Officer of the League Management Company, (LMC), Salihu Abubakar, directed the invited players to report for the first phase of camping that will open on July 11 and end on the 18th.

The letter said the players during the period will be released to play for their clubs in League and Federation Cup fixtures. The second and final phase of the camping will open on August 1 leading to the team’s departure on August 8.

The squad was selected by a poll of coaches of the NPFL carried out to pick players for the different positions.

The NPFL All-Stars will while in Spain play a preseason friendly with Valencia CF and also participate in the annual Carranza LaLiga World Club Tournament in which they will play against Malaga CF on August 12 and 13.

The list is made up of four goalkeepers, eight defenders, three defensive midfielders,seven central midfielders, seven wingers and six center forwards.

promises they made to me.”

Incidentally, the 20-year-old Iwobi first trained with Siasia’s Under-23s before he changed

The Squad

Goalkeepers - Emeka Nwabulu (Wikki), Theophilus Afelokhai (Enyimba), Ikechukwu Ezenwa (FC IfeanyIUbah (Sunshine Stars), Okiemute Odah (Lobi Stars) Defenders: Matthew Etim (Rangers), Ifeanyi Nweke (Nasarawa United), Chima Akas,Chinedu Udoji (Enyimba), Gabriel Wassa (Niger Tornadoes), Austin Obaroakpo (Abia Warriors) Jamiu Alimi (Pillars) Emmanuel Ariwa (Akwa United) Midfielders: Ifeanyi Ifeanyi (MFM), Dare Ojo (Enyimba), Dayo Ojo ( Sunshine Stars), Obinna Nwobodo (Rangers), Otun Fawaz (Shooting Stars), Rabiu Ali, Charles Henlong, Ifeanyi Matthew (Pillars), Ibrahim Alhassan (Wikki Tourists), Frederick Obomate (Rivers United) Forwards: Emeka Ogbuh (Heartland), Sikiru Olatubosun, Stephen Odey (MFM), Chisom Egbuchulam (Rangers), Ezekiel Bassey ( Enyimba), Shadrach Oghali (Warri Wolves), Bashir Abdulrahman (Nasarawa United), Bata Mohammed (El Kanemi Warriors) Godwin Obaje (Wikki), Ismaila Gata (IfeanyiUbah), Anthony Okpotu (Lobi Stars), Ibrahim Mustapha (El Kanemi Warriors), Abiye Moses (Ikorodu United)

Rufai: Okocha Almost Lost His Place in Eagles Due to Excessive Dribbling Kunle Adewale Though Austin Jay Jay Okocha is today cherished and adored for his dribbling skills by many of his fans and admirers but not many know that those dribbling abilities almost cost him a chance to don the colours of the Super Eagles under Clemens Westerhof.

This was revealed by one of Okocha’s teammates, Peter Rufai, during the unveiling of Jay Jay Okocha Foundation yesterday in Lagos.

According to Rufai, several times he and some other senior players in the

team had to intervene by appealing to Okocha to limit his dribbling in other to appease Westerhof.

Dodo Mayana as Rufai is fondly called by admires recalled a particular day in training when the Dutch coach asked the players to do “one-torch” training.

After several efforts

by Okocha to adhere to Westerhof’s instruction, he resorted to dribbling and the former Eagles coach got infuriated and threatened to decamp him.

“At that moment, I went to meet with Okocha and asked him why he dribbled after he had been warned not to and he said: “I just

don’t know the spirit that entered into me each time I hold on to the ball. The urge to dribble was always difficult to resist. So at the end of the day we all had to accept the fact that dribble was just part of him,” Rufai recalled.

Speaking, in the same vien, former national team Captain and Coach, Austin Eguavoen said he and the other senior players in the team helped in protecting Okocha when he arrived newly to the Super Eagles.

“Coming fresh to the national team after a good outing in the U-21 competition in Mauritius, we realised the kind of

talent he possessed and needed to be protected and we gave him the needed protection,” Eguavoen said.

Okocha, however said if he had died today he would have died not accomplishing a great objective of giving back to the society, which culminated in the launching of the Jay Jay Okocha Foundation.

“I came from a poor background but football changed my life and I think I now have a voice through football to help a lot of children in the streets return to school,” the former Bolton Wanderers’ player said.

ITTF Ranking: Aruna Quadri Remains Africa’s Best Player 2014 ITTF Star Player, Aruna Quadri maintained his status as Africa’s best player following the release of the July ranking by the world table tennis ruling body – ITTF. Despite dropping by a step to 38, Aruna Quadri who featured at the last Japan Open garnered 2337 points to beat Egypt’s Omar Assar to second place in the

continent.

Quadri whose scintillating performance in his first season in the prestigious French Premier League aided his club, Jura Morez to avoid relegation is also rated 27 in the July men’s singles ranking for the Rio 2016 Olympic Games in Brazil.

Despite not been active in June, Egypt’a Omar Assar dropped two steps to 41 in

the world and the Egyptian also failed to save his team, Istres from dropping into relegation in the French Premier League.

Veteran Segun Toriola also remained the third best player in Africa despite dropping to 122 from 110 in the latest rating.

For dropping from 91 to 98 in the world, Egypt’s Dina Meshref tops African ranking

in the women.

Meanwhile, China held on to the top of the ranking as the world best as Ma Long, Fan Zhendong, Xu Xin and Zhang Jike are the world top four players in the ranking.

Also Chinese trio of Liu Shiwen, Ding Ning and Zhu Yuling are the top three female players in the world according to the July ITTF ranking.

46

T H I S D AY •WEDNESDAY JULY 6, 2016

WEDNESDAYSPORTS EURO2016

Wales Out to Inflict More Pain on Portugal It will be virgin territory for Wales when they face Portugal in the Euro 2016 semifinals yet their opponents could be forgiven a sense of deja vu as they step on to the pitch in Lyon this evening.

This will be Portugal’s fourth semifinal in the last five editions of the competition stretching back to 2000, but for all their success in reaching the latter stages of the tournament, there has been little glory along the way.

Only once have they overcome the last-four hurdle and then they were beaten in the final by Greece as hosts at Euro 2004.

If you include their defeat in the semifinals of the 2006 World Cup and a loss at the Euros in 1984, they are becoming all too familiar with the pitfalls of this stage of major tournaments.

Portugal’s conquerors in their recent last-four clashes have included football powerhouses France, at Euro 2000 and the World Cup in 2006, and Spain at Euro 2012.

Should they lose to Wales, playing their first major tournament in 58 years and their first ever semifinal, it would be a devastating blow.

Yet Wales are arguably the form team coming into the match.

Chris Coleman’s side have revelled in their underdog status to win their group, which also included England, Russia and Slovakia, ease out British rivals Northern Ireland in the last 16 and sweep past heavy favourites Belgium in the quarters.

Portugal is yet to win a match at the tournament inside 90 minutes, having drawn all three group games, beaten Croatia in extra time and squeezed past Poland on penalties.

Things are yet to click for Portugal, and by extension for captain Cristiano Ronaldo, who has at times looked exasperated by his teammates’ attacking shortcomings.

Yet Portugal is unbeaten in 12 competitive internationals since Fernando Santos took over as coach at the start of the Euro 2016 qualifying campaign.

With Ronaldo’s Real Madrid teammate Pepe marshalling an increasingly assured defence, they will be tough to break down.

Especially for a Wales side deprived of one of their most talented creative influences in midfielder Aaron Ramsey, who is suspended after picking up a booking in the win over Belgium.

While Gareth Bale has been

No Goals, No Problem for Mueller He is the big-name forward yet to score at Euro 2016, but Thomas Mueller has said that his main concern is helping Germany beat France in tomorrow’s Euro 2016 semifinal.

Mueller, top scorer at the 2010 World Cup in South Africa and who hit 32 goals for Bayern Munich last season, has yet to open his account at the European Championship finals.

The self-confident forward says his sole concern is helping Germany win in Marseille in their bid to add the European crown to their 2014 World Cup title.

Mueller said Germany are at the contest as world champions “and the chance to win two titles back-to-back is not something you get everyday.”

“Reaching that goal is what drives me on.

“I haven’t had that many chances here and the ones I have missed were by a matter of centimetres.

“I’m not driving myself crazy about it.

“Scoring goals isn’t the fuel which drives me, it’s just the varnish which makes the car look good.

“I was the top-scorer in South Africa and we went out in the semifinals.

“I haven’t changed anything and I’m not bothered.

“Sure, a goal would calm me down, as it would mean I wouldn’t have to answer any more questions about it,” he told reporters in Evian with a grin.

Mueller has the support of Germany’s management as they prepare to face the French.

“If we need a goal, then Mueller will score one for us,” head coach Joachim Loew said on Monday.

Team manager Oliver Bierhoff said it was just a matter of time.

“Thomas Mueller is just keeping his powder dry. Then he’ll explode,” said the former striker with a smile yesterday.

The mood in the German camp is of confidence, despite considerable personnel problems.

Mats Hummels is suspended, Sami Khedira and Mario Gomez are out injured, while captain Bastian Schweinsteiger is struggling with a knee strain.

Nevertheless, Mueller is relishing facing the hosts in the semis, just as Germany did at the 2014 World Cup when they romped to a 7-1 win over Brazil.

“It’s a lot of fun (to play games like this), France are a bit under pressure as the hosts,” said Mueller.

“We’re meeting then in the semifinals, there aren’t much better games than this.

“It’s good for us again, but I’m not saying we’ll win 7-1, mind you.”

Mueller

Wales at last training session ahead of today’s clash with Portugal Wales’s attacking talisman, scoring three times to lift them out of their group, Ramsey has been arguably their most influential player, scoring one

and producing four assists in the run to the last four.

The match is likely to be billed as a contest between the two most expensive players in

the world – Ronaldo, who will play a record third European Championship semifinal, and his Real Madrid teammate Bale.

Perhaps ominously for Wales, Ronaldo has netted twice in each of his last two games in Lyon for club and country.

...Ronaldo Vs Bale The Real Madrid teammates, who have competed for the Bernabeu spotlight for three seasons, face each other representing their nations in Lyon tonight.

The two are also competing for the Euro 2016 golden boot, but Bale insists the match will be down to which country performs better as a team.

He said: “It’s not about two players. We know and everybody knows that it’s about two nations in the semi-final - 11 men against 11. “(Ronaldo) is a fantastic player, everyone knows what

Ronaldo (left) and Bale

he can do. But we don’t worry about the opposition. We just do what we do. It’s about how we perform as a team, and as a team we can shut-out a lot of threats.

“The star in our team is all of us. We are all together, we all work as one, running for each other, tackling for each other. We get on like brothers and we’re having fun, enjoying the occasion, with no fear. It’s working so far.”

In contrast to a relaxed and happy Bale, Ronaldo seemed to reveal a tense demeanour earlier in the tournament when

he threw a TV reporter’s microphone into a lake.

Bale laughed at the mention of the incident and stated he was sure his club colleague “had his reasons”.

Bale said: “I can’t comment on how he’s feeling or what he’s doing. I’m sure he had his reasons for doing what he did.

“I feel comfortable and we’re enjoying ourselves.

Sometimes you have to fulfil your responsibilities and doing interviews is a part of it.

“We get on very well at Madrid and enjoy playing

with each other. What he does off the pitch is his private life.

It’s not for me to decide who’s the better player. If I can help Wales win that’s all I need.”

Key Welsh players Aaron Ramsey and Ben Davies will miss the semi-final through suspension, but Bale says their absence makes the squad even more determined to reach the final.

“It’s horrible,” he said.

“The rules are difficult to take sometimes. They’ll be hurt deep down, but they’re not showing it. It’s extra motivation to get to final.”

47

T H I S D AY •WEDNESDAY JULY 6, 2016

WEDNESDAYSPORTS

Wimbledon 2016:Venus Joins Serena in S’final

Five-time champion Venus Williams yesterday reached the Wimbledon 2016 semi-finals for the first time since 2009 with victory over Kazakhstan’s Yaroslava Shvedova.

Eighth seed Williams - at 36 the oldest Grand Slam semi-finalist for 22 years - beat unseeded Shvedova 7-6 (7-5) 6-3.

An all-Williams final remains possible after top seed Serena beat Russian Anastasia Pavlyuchenkova 6-4 6-4.

In Thursday’s semis, Serena will play Russia’s Elena Vesnina and Venus will take on Germany’s Angelique Kerber.

“We don’t really talk too much about it but we are playing doubles later, so we are just happy to be in the semi-finals,” Serena told BBC Sport.

Asked about a potential final meeting, she added: “It will be great. Venus is such a tough opponent I want her to win so bad - not in the final if I am there, but if I’m not, I do.”

Kerber, the fourth seed, beat Romanian fifth seed Simona Halep 7-5 7-6 (7-2) in the opening match on Centre Court.

Unseeded Russian Vesnina thrashed Slovakian 19th seed Cibulkova 6-2 6-2 in the remaining quarter-final on court one.

Venus Williams showed she remains a real threat on the All England Club grass with an impressive win over world number 96 Shvedova.

The champion in 2000, 2001, 2005, 2007 and 2008 made it through to her first Grand Slam semi-final since the 2010 US Open.

At 36, she is the oldest major semi-finalist since Martina Navratilova finished runner-up at Wimbledon in 1994.

“I love playing the game,” said Venus Williams, who slipped outside the world’s top 100 in 2011 after being diagnosed with the immune system disease Sjogren’s Disease. “When you’re winning matches it makes it that much sweeter.”

The American, who played her first Wimbledon in 1997, recovered from losing an early break to win the opening set tie-break from 5-2 down.

She then dominated the second set, racing into a 5-1 lead and holding off signs of a Shvedova comeback to serve out the win.

“What a tough day on the court,” Venus added. “The tiebreaker, it felt like she would win. I felt like my opponent was on fire.

“I felt like the crowd enjoyed all the great points. She got them involved in the last game. We gave them good tennis today.”

Serena Williams’ presence in the semi-finals is far less of a surprise than that of her sister, but the world number one needed to be at her best to see off Pavlyuchenkova.

The American, 34, converted the only two break points of a desperately tight contest, the first with a crushing backhand return in the opening set, the second thanks to a Pavlyuchenkova double fault in the second.

Williams, the six-time and defending champion, fired down 11 aces and 29 winners as she closes in on a 22nd Grand Slam singles title.

“It was good,” she said. “I am excited to be able to win and get through, it felt really good. I knew Venus was up 5-1 and then I saw (the result) on the court (scoreboard), so I was like ‘Yay’.

“I am just trying to win my match. I knew I had a tough opponent and one thing I have learnt this year is just to focus on the match.”

Vesnina completely dominated against Cibulkova, who appeared to run out of energy after a successful run that began with winning the Eastbourne title ahead of Wimbledon.

The Slovakian can at least take comfort that she does not have to postpone her wedding, which can now go ahead as planned on Saturday.

Serena defeated Russian Anastasia Pavlyuchenkova 6-4 6-4 to reach semifinal

Martino Quits as Argentina Coach Gerardo Martino has resigned from his post as coach of the Argentina national team, less than one month before the start of the Olympic Games.

The ex-Barcelona man had pledged to continue at the helm after a second Copa America final defeat to Chile in June.

But the retirement of Lionel Messi, institutional chaos at the Argentine Football Association and serious issues over squad selection ahead of the Olympic Games forced a change of mind, as he revealed his decision during a meeting on Tuesday.

Martino had taken over following the 2014 World Cup, and lost just one competitive match during his time as coach, against Ecuador in a September 2015 World Cup qualifier.

In total the coach won 19 of the 29 games he directed, with seven draws and three

defeats.

But the failure to lift silverware on two occasions made the trainer a focus for criticism from many fans and observers, as Argentina’s title drought now stands at 23 years after they fell short in three consecutive finals.

New Man Utd Boss, Mourinho, Ready for Challenges Ahead Jose Mourinho said yesterday he is ready for the task of rebuilding Manchester United, insisting: “I am where I want to be.”

The new United manager added: “I think it is a job everyone wants and not many have a chance to have and I have it.”

Former Chelsea boss Mourinho succeeds Dutchman Louis van Gaal, who was sacked after United’s FA Cup success in May. The Portuguese said he was “frustrated” United are not in the Champions League next season but insisted he was at Old Trafford to win trophies.

Mourinho also said that: He wants to make four major signings; He is not to blame for the departure of Ryan Giggs; He will not play Wayne Rooney in midfield; He has a track record of promoting young players.

United, the 20-time English champions, finished fifth in the Premier League last season, 15 points adrift of shock champions Leicester City.

United won the FA Cup, but the campaign was generally viewed as another disappointment, prompting the sacking of Van Gaal in May. “It would be quite pragmatic to say let’s work and let’s try to be back to the Champions League, be back to the top four,” said Mourinho.

“I am not good on that and I didn’t want to be good on that. I am more aggressive. We want to win.

“For many years, success was just routine and in this moment the last three years are to forget.

I want the players to forget. I don’t want the players to think we have to do better and finish fourth. Finishing fourth is not the aim.

“I want everything. I want to win matches, I want to play well, I don’t want to concede goals. I want the fans to be behind us.

“Of course, we’re not going to get everything, but we want to.”

Asked if he had a point to prove after his second stint at Chelsea ended in the sack, Mourinho responded: “There are some managers who haven’t

won titles for 10 years. Some of them never. The last time I won was a year ago.”

Mourinho, who led the Blues to the Premier League title in 2015, added: “If I have something to prove, imagine the others. That’s my feeling.

“I feel that I have to prove not to the others but to myself.

I would never be able to work without success. That is my nature.”

Mourinho said he had targeted four signings and had secured three of them.

“I am very clear in my approach and model to play and I need specialists in that,” said the former Chelsea, Real Madrid and Inter Milan boss. “I like one or two multi-functional because you need them when you are in a bit of trouble.”

Striker Zlatan Ibrahimovic and Ivory Coast defender Eric Bailly are already at the club, while Henrikh Mkhitaryan looks like being the third recruit after United’s bid for the midfielder was accepted

by Borussia Dortmund.

France and Juventus midfielder Paul Pogba, 23,

has also been heavily linked with a return to the club he left in 2011.

“We decided four targets,” said Mourinho, 53. “Until we have the fourth, we are still working hard. The third player will be official soon.”

Mourinho has been accused of putting his faith in proven, older talent at his previous clubs rather than investing in youth.

But the former Porto boss was quick to reject such

allegations when he faced the media on Tuesday.

“You know how many young players I promoted to the first team from academies?” he asked. “Forty nine. Some of them are big names, they are Champions League winners in the Euros, playing for national teams.

“One lie repeated many times sometimes looks true, but it will never be true.”

Giggs, who made a record 963 appearances for the Red

Mourinho at Old Trafford…yesterday

Devils, ended his 29-year association with the club last week.

The Welshman was assistant to Van Gaal and had been tipped by some to succeed the Dutchman.

“It is not my responsibility Ryan is not in the club,” said Mourinho. “The job Ryan wanted is the job the club decided to give me. If, one day, he wants to be back to the club while I am here, I would never stop him.”

Wednesday July 6, 2016

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Price: N250

MISSILE

IYC to Buhari

“The sort of engagement the IYC expects from the Federal Government is a holistic dialogue with stakeholders in the region with a view to finding a lasting solution to the root causes of militancy and other agitations, rather than engagement with a view to giving palliatives to present agitators without addressing the issues responsible for the recurring agitations, as was done in the past” – The Ijaw Youth Council (IYC) calling on President Muhammadu Buhari to back his appeals with action in making the Niger Delta militants halt hostilities.

CHIDIAMUTA GUEST COLUMNIST

Ojo Maduekwe: Philosopher of the Soap Box

I

deliberately called him at an unholy hour in Ontario. He picked up the phone, knowing it was I, but protested that the only other person who could call him at such a cruel hour and expect a response was ‘the President, Commander-inChief’. He knew it was a prank to get his attention on an urgent matter. I indicated that I had an urgent personal assignment, which was also a national service. We were at the run up to the last presidential election and the two dominant political parties were waging the political equivalent of a bloody civil war.

I needed him to take a temporary leave of his ambassadorial perch and come to Lagos to deliver a public lecture on ‘the imperative of bipartisanship in Nigerian politics’. We needed to get the two main parties to etch out common grounds and see themselves as first and foremost institutions for national stability and continuation rather than medieval armies of the night. The public presentation of my new book, Writing the Wrong, would provide the occasion. So genuine was Ojo’s friendship and patriotism that what should have been a request ended up as summons.

The rest is history.

In a place where politics is played mostly in pursuit of crass interests rather than enduring ideas, Ojo Maduekwe has died more than a personal death. He has perhaps taken with him the promise that Nigeria’s motley and voracious political class could aspire to any set of ideas. Among the many practitioners of the deviant art of Nigerian politics, Ojo stood out as one who aspired and indeed strove to lend the coloration of ideas to his political forays. He was that lone voice in a wilderness that insisted on engaging in and elevating the nation’s political discourse while playing an active and diverse role in successive governments including, alas, undemocratic ones.

Variously appointed and disappointed by administrations from Sani Abacha to Olusegun Obasanjo, Umaru Musa Yar’Adua and Goodluck Jonathan, Ojo Maduekwe was a man for many seasons. He was at different times explicator extraordinaire to the Abacha interregnum, Minister of Youth and Culture, Transport, Foreign Affairs, Secretary of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) and Nigeria’s Ambassador to Canada. While his contemporaries in these administrations were content with occupying political offices, Ojo’s singular distinction in each of these roles is that he found it fit to rationalise his role against the background of the peculiar historical circumstances that surrounded each of the regimes he had to serve. Some may consider these rationalisations self-serving and opportunistic but at least he offered them to a public that was eager to hear sensibly from high office occupants.

In the process of finding a rational basis for his multiple involvements in the nation’s public life, Ojo carved out for himself an unmistakable image as an essentially ‘philosophical’ politician.

He was first a man of ideas and then a political actor, rather than a politician in its crude local definition. A qualified lawyer in his own right, it could be said that he was a man of ideas in politics rather than a politician who discovered ideas as a marketing tool.

This image becomes important because of the character of Nigerian politics in the post–military era. As it were, the founding fathers notably Dr. Nnamdi Azikiwe and Chief Obafemi Awolowo would seem to have died with the foundations of ideological politics in Nigeria. To be an Awoist or a Zikist meant

TRIBUTE adherence to a particular school of thought: one was social democratic while the other was liberal welfarist. Those who subscribed to these belief systems were staunch followers of these founding fathers and the ideological rubrics of these belief systems were rigorously enforced both within the parties they led and the governments led by those parties in the regions. Contemporary Nigerian politics is embarrassingly bereft of ideas, not to talk of ideological leaning both as a basis of party affiliation and government policy.

Ojo Maduekwe’s love for ideas cannot be equated with what the founding fathers espoused.

It is still hard to locate his ideological bent except as a committed patriot and a rational nationalist. Beyond providing rationalisation for the various administrations under which he served, I would be reluctant to hold the late politician responsible for any ideological commitment, strictly speaking. But his various writings and utterances indicate a certain republican nationalism rather than a social democratic commitment.

Not for him the banal materialism of a good many Nigerian public office holders. Not for him the pomposity of glorified officialdom.

Instead, as Minister of Transport he advocated that most Nigerians would be better off riding to work on bicycles both for their health and as a true indicator of the nation’s real socio-economic standing at the time. That did not incidentally earn him the popularity that the gesture deserved because the image of a minister on bicycle in the midst of other ministers cocooned in air conditioned armoured limousines did not just impress Nigerians. In the end, it was a personal gambit and almost a foolhardy adventure remarkable more for its symbolism than for its fundamental message.

But at a personal level, it indicated his personal indifference to material comfort and official privilege. No wonder then that up to the time of his untimely demise, his name never cropped in the myriad tales of malfeasance for which his party is fast becoming world famous.

As Foreign Affairs Minister, his advocacy of ‘Citizen diplomacy’ was a serious departure for a country that had remained largely indifferent to the plight of its citizens abroad. The concept emphasised the reciprocal obligation of citizens and the government. The government had an obligation to look out for its citizens wherever they may be in the world while every Nigerian needed to see him/herself as an ambassador of the Federal Republic wherever they find themselves. This was a remarkable message in the history of Nigeria’s external relations and foreign policy.

It was perhaps in his role as Secretary of the PDP that Ojo’s love of ideas would manifest most resoundingly. I suspect that former President Obasanjo may have deliberately opted to send Ojo to the party to help evolve a serious party founded on clear principles and a structure of internal democracy. Characteristically, Ojo approached his job as party scribe from the high grounds of ideas, organising countless seminars, workshops and conferences. To his credit, the party secretariat acquired some tidiness while its structures began to resemble those of a proper political party. But he was a miserable minority in a party inundated with a swarm of political locusts. Inevitably, his tenure was short just as his reforms were soon swept off by successive gales of prebendal invasion.

Ojo was unfailingly felicitous. His personal warmth radiated through his love for brilliant ideas. In a way, you met Ojo’s ideas before you had a chance to connect to the man. The freshness of those ideas was instant and he expressed them with electrifying urgency. Not for him the laziness of your usual Nigerian politician who was wont to take suggestions on their face value. Ojo insisted, always, on detailed engagement in order to tease out the substance of any idea in the political space.

His face glowed with warmth in the midst of men and women of ideas.

He is perhaps that great practical professor of political philosophy that Nigeria never had.

For if he took that route, he would have found great comfort in that much needed synergy between practical involvement in politics and the philosophical insight that such involvement ought to generate. An embarrassing lack in Nigeria’s intellectual culture is the unwillingness of those who distinguish themselves in politics, public affairs, the military and business to lend the benefit of their experience to the academia.

Ojo’s career places that misfortune in stark display, for he tried on his own to bridge that divide through private scholarship and voracious reading. I am not aware that he applied to teach politics in any university until his passing.

For those who came to know him, you could not but be instantly infected by his instantaneous aplomb and compulsive vivacity. His intellectual effervescence made it extremely hard to ignore him in any gathering. His intellectual bent was a

combination of the Socratic and the Aristotelian.

He valued enlightened conversation on the higher points in the polity in order to extract better ideas from his interlocutors. But he also came to table from a position of fresh and strong theoretical insight. He took nothing for granted and constantly questioned the received assumptions that have shackled Nigeria to perpetual immobility. Most importantly, he remained intellectually curious, reading voraciously on contemporary history, political thought and biography until the very end.

In a sense, Ojo Maduekwe was a political idealist, an attribute that cast him a shade above his contemporaries who related to Nigerian politics from their ethnic and primordial pigeonholes. He was never the one to cast his vote in favour of the ‘turn by turn’ notion of presidential succession in Nigeria. Instead, he insisted that the most qualified person should emerge through a rigorous and orderly party political process. Therefore, when his fellow Igbo politicians were angling for an Igbo successor to Obasanjo, Ojo described the clamour as ‘idiotic’. Such was his impatience with unthinking partisanship and political positions informed by primordial nostalgia.

In the loss of Ojo Maduekwe, Nigeria ought to be mourning the loss of a notable flag bearer of an ideal and value- ideas in the service of politics.

•Dr. Amuta is Chairman of Wilson & Weizmann Associates Ltd., Lagos

IN THE LINE OF DUTY….02 OFFICER, ..I SAID A POLICEMAN SEIZED MY CAR PARTICULARS FOR NO APPARENT REASON AND DIDN’T RELEASE THEM UNTIL I PAID N5,000 AND YOU’RE TELLING ME HE MUST HAVE BEEN A FAKE POLICEMAN!

WHAT DO YOU MEAN?

YES SIR, BECAUSE IT’S ONLY A FAKE POLICEMAN THAT CAN BE THAT UNREASONABLE! YOU SHOULD HAVE BEEN SUSPICIOUS WHEN HE DEMANDED THAT KIND OF MONEY!

SIR, I MEAN, NO REAL POLICEMAN WILL ASK YOU FOR N5,000 FOR SUCH A ROUTINE CHECK, WHERE N200 SOMETHING FOR THE BOYS COULD DO!

06-07-16

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