Friday 5th May 2017

Adeosun: FG Will Spend on Infrastructure to Exit Recession Expects economy to grow by 1% this year Oil prices crash to pre-OPEC deal levels

Chika Amanze-Nwachuku with agency reports The Minister of Finance, Mrs. Kemi Adeosun has said the federal government plans to boost agricultural production and spend billions of dollars upgrading dilapidated

infrastructure that will help drag Africa’s top oil producer out of recession this year.

Low oil prices plunged the West African nation into its worst economic crisis in 25 years with output, contracting by 1.5 per cent last year.

The situation was

exacerbated by militant attacks on pipelines in the oil-rich Niger Delta and what business executives said have been poor policy decisions.

Adeosun told the Financial Times that she expected growth to pick up to 1 per cent this year on the back

of improved crude prices and government spending on power and rail projects, with $6.9 billion earmarked for infrastructure projects.

The executive arm is also seeking approval from lawmakers to borrow nearly $6 billion from the Export-Import

Bank of China to upgrade the rail network linking Lagos, the commercial capital, and Kano, the largest city in the north.

The International Monetary Fund (IMF) is forecasting growth of 0.8 per cent this year.

“We’re confident this will be a year of recovery. Modest, slow recovery, but we hope we will get out of negative growth by the second quarter,” Adeosun said.

“The question of how much Continued on page 12

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Buhari Meets Emefiele, Pleased With Stability in Forex Market

Insists ban on 41 items not lifted Stanbic IBTC, Keystone Bank readmitted into FX market Again, banks unable to subscribe fully to CBN’s offer Omololu Ogunmade in Abuja and Obinna Chima in Lagos Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) Governor, Mr. Godwin Emefiele, yesterday revealed that President Muhammadu Buhari is satisfied with the stability in the foreign exchange (FX) market, following the sustained intervention by the central bank.

Emefiele made this

disclosure at the Presidential Villa, Abuja, while fielding questions from journalists after a closed-door meeting with the president.

The CBN boss who said the visit was one of his routine visits to the president to brief him on the state of the economy, added that Buhari was excited to hear the news Continued on page 10

New Book Justifies Jonathan’s Claim Obama Administration Influenced His Defeat

Jega’s aide: Alleged disparity between presidential and N’Assembly votes in Kano, a ruse Bolaji Adebiyi in Abuja As the book, Against the Run of Play, written by the Chairman of the THISDAY Editorial Board, Mr. Olusegun Adeniyi, continues to generate heated reactions, a new book, Facts Versus Fiction: The True Story of the Jonathan Years: Chibok, 2015 and Other

Conspiracies, has given a detailed account of a March, 2014 meeting between the Barack Obama administration and 12 northern governors, saying it was the clearest evidence of the U.S.’ push for regime change in Nigeria in 2015.

Continued on page 10

THE FUTURE LOOKS BRIGHT...

Chairman, Fidelity Bank Plc, Mr. Ernest Ebi (left) and Managing Director/CEO, Fidelity Bank, Mr. Nnamdi Okonkwo, at the bank’s 29th Annual General Meeting (AGM), held in Lagos… yesterday

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FRIDAY, MAY 5, 2017 • T H I S D AY

PAGE TEN BUHARI MEETS EMEFIELE, PLEASED WITH STABILITY IN FOREX MARKET on improving economic stability in the country, supported by the exchange rate of the naira which has stabilised at between N380 and N385/$ on the parallel market.

Emefiele said the price of crude oil in the international market which has been hovering at between $50 and $56 per barrel, has also helped in improving revenue generation and by extension fortified the nation’s currency.

“Basically, as expected, what we normally do is from time to time, to brief the president on activities in the Central Bank of Nigeria particularly this time as it relates to the efforts that the central bank is making to stabilise the FX market.

“And we briefed him regarding the activities so far and he was very delighted to hear that the market is stabilising at the level that it is right now at between N380 and N385 on the parallel market.

“There is no secret about it, but the fact that this time we have seen increased production of crude and exports also. The fact that we have also seen crude prices oscillating at between $50 and $55 to $56 has helped our revenue position and has also provided some ammunition for the central bank to defend the currency.

“Given what we have right now, the fact is that our revenue is looking good, the state of the economy is improving and I believe that we are going to pull out of the problem (recession) in due course,” he said.

Emefiele also said the economy has further been strengthened by the continuous injection of FX into the market by the central bank.

“Our responsibility as the central bank is to do what we are doing at this time.

Nigerians or importers who need FX to do business need to have access to it and given the fact that we are able to increase our FX revenue, the natural thing to do is to make it available to those who need it to import or to carry out

eligible transactions,” he said.

He said stable crude oil production and the attendant increase in the volume of oil exports, would help support growth of the Nigerian economy.

He also said the development has given signals of an imminent exit from the recession.

Emefiele also yesterday dismissed a news report that the CBN had lifted the ban on 41 items not eligible for accessing FX from the official market, following the release of a circular on Wednesday.

The CBN governor informed THISDAY that the circular did not mean that the ban on the 41 items had been lifted, stressing that the ban remained in place.

The central bank in the circular had stated that importers of items that had been previously classified as “Not Valid for Forex” with transactions value of $20,000 and below per quarter shall now qualify for allocation of FX going forward.

This it, however, explained shall be subject to the completion of Form Q by small-scale (SME) importers.

The circular addressed to all authorised dealers said: “Please note that importers of items classified as “Not Valid for Forex” with transactions value of $20,000 and below per quarter shall now qualify for allocation of foreign exchange subject to the completion of Form Q. Note that this circular supersedes an earlier circular on the subject matter.”

Continuing, the CBN stated that further to the circular on the above subject matter, all authorised dealers are to note that the documentation which includes “a duly completed Form Q; application letter from the customer; applicant must be an account holder with the processing authorised dealer and must have operated the account for at least six months; foreign bank transfer details; and pro-forma invoice from offshore supplier/beneficiary, shall henceforth subsist for

the allocation of foreign exchange to small and medium enterprises”.

CBN spokesman Isaac Okorafor, also in a statement yesterday, said: “The attention of the CBN has been drawn to media reports to the effect that the banking system regulator has reversed part of its policy on some import items ineligible for FX. “We wish to state that these reports and their interpretations are wrong. The CBN has not reversed its policy on the 41 items ineligible for FX through the Nigerian FX market.

He said the report was a misinterpretation of the circular, adding: “This provision does not refer to the 41 items that remain ineligible for FX sale in the Nigerian FX market.”

Meanwhile, Stanbic IBTC was yesterday readmitted

into the spot and wholesale forwards segment of the FX market by the CBN after the lender was able to provide evidence to the central bank that it had been selling FX to SMEs since the introduction of the special window for small businesses.

A senior CBN official informed THISDAY yesterday that Stanbic IBTC has been readmitted to participate in the weekly wholesale spot and forwards interventions.

He said other banks were also in the process of providing verifiable proof of compliance and once they do so, they would be readmitted.

Also, Keystone Bank said yesterday that it had been readmitted into the spot and wholesale forwards segment of market by the CBN. The bank’s acting managing

director, Mr. Hafiz Bakare said in a statement: “SMEs are an integral part of the economy of Nigeria and as such we at Keystone Bank are committed to supporting this sector.

“We are pleased to have clarified the bank’s position with the CBN as we have always shown support for SMEs through our work with farmers, manufacturers, schools and other business owners.”

Bakare further stated that Keystone Bank will always support the CBN in ensuring the growth and development of the economy.

During trading yesterday, news filtering from the central bank showed that banks and other authorized dealers were again unable to fully subscribe to the $150 million offered by the CBN in the market.

According to sources, dealers

could only $43.5 million, representing 29 per cent of the $150 million offered in the wholesale segment of the FX market.

Confirming this Okorafor reaffirmed the CBN’s position to sustain the intervention with a view to making FX available for all genuine transactions through the CBN window.

Okorafor also allayed fears over the dwindling subscription by authorised dealers noting that it was a sign of a dollar glut in the FX market and the determination of the CBN to sustain the intervention aimed at ensuring stability.

He also said operators in the Bureau de Change segment of the market were also on hand yesterday to pick the $20,000 offered to service low-end FX users.

NPA UPGRADES ITS FACILITIES…

L-R: Managing Director, Nigerian Ports Authority (NPA), Ms. Hadiza Bala Usman; Executive Director Marine and Operations, NPA, Dr. Sekonte Davies; President, Lagos Chamber of Commerce and Industry (LCCI), Mrs. Nike Akande; and a member of the Senate Committee, Marine Transport, Senator Binta Garba, during the commissioning of four new tug boats by NPA at the Dockyard, Apapa, Lagos… Wednesday

NEW BOOK JUSTIFIES JONATHAN’S CLAIM OBAMA ADMINISTRATION INFLUENCED HIS DEFEAT The new book, written by former Special Assistant to Jonathan on New Media, Mr. Reno Omokri, quoted copiously, a top intelligence analyst with the Obama administration, Mr. Matthew Page, who he said admitted that the meeting was meant to gauge the governors’ disposition to the possible change of the Nigerian president who had disappointed the U.S. on a number of key issues.

The revelations in Omokri’s book, due for release next month, coincides with a rebuttal by Abdullahi Usman, former Personal Assistant to the former Chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), Prof. Attahiru Jega, on Jonathan’s claim that the difference of a million votes recorded in the presidential and National Assembly elections in Kano State was ample evidence that the presidential election might have been manipulated.

“Go and check the results from Kano. The presidential election and that of the National Assembly happened on the same day and same time. The National Assembly result reflected that about

800,000 people voted but that of the presidential election reflected a vote of about 1.8 million,” Jonathan had said in Adeniyi’s book, implying that this was the general trend in the northern part of the country.

The former president had also blamed a U.S.led conspiracy, including Britain and France, as one of the key factors that led to his defeat by the All Progressives Congress’ (APC) Muhammadu Buhari, explaining that the foreign powers gave teeth to a local conspiracy of northern political establishment to unseat him.

The former president’s claims triggered searing attacks from critics who said he was fishing for excuses for a defeat that was expected due to his perceived abysmal performance in office.

But Omokri’s upcoming book supported his former boss’ claim, contending that the Obama administration’s meeting with the northern governors was part of the grand plot to remove Jonathan from office.

One of the former governors that attended the meeting, Dr. Babangida

Aliyu of Niger State, had hinted at this in Adeniyi’s book, saying: “That was my reading of the situation. I believe it was all about the 2015 election for which the Americans had resolved not to support Jonathan. They just wanted to size us up for the level of commitment to regime change.”

Quoting Page, who until his resignation in 2016 was the U.S. State Department’s top intelligence analyst on Nigeria and who also served as Deputy National Intelligence Officer for Africa with the U.S. National Intelligence Council, Omokri gave a fuller picture of Aliyu’s recollection and detailed how the 12 northern governors were invited to the U.S. for the meetings that began at the State Department and ended in the White House.

Issues raised with Page included why the Obama administration organised the meetings; what transpired at the meetings; and who said what, where, when and why.

According to Omokri, Page, who was at the meetings, said the former governor of Adamawa State, Admiral Murtala Nyako (rtd.), was the most vocal in voicing

anti-Jonathan sentiments.

He was supported by former Governors Rabiu Kwankwaso (Kano), Aliyu Wamakko (Sokoto) and Kashim Shettima (Borno).

Governor Abdulfatah Ahmed (Kwara) and former Governor Idris Wada (Kogi), he said, were non-committal.

Page noted that the meetings at the United States Institute for Peace, which started at the State Department and ended in the White House, were initially innocuous but that when the governors proceeded to the closed-door sessions at the U.S. State Department, the purpose became clearer.

According to Page, present at the State Department meetings were Ambassador Linda Thomas Greenfield, who was then the Assistant Secretary of State for African Affairs in the U.S. Department of State’s Bureau of African Affairs; Ambassador Thomas Alfred “Tom” Shannon Jr., who was then the number three man at the State Department; the acting Deputy Secretary of State and the Under Secretary of State for Political Affairs.

Omokri quoted Page: “Admiral Murtala Nyako read

out a memo he had written itemizing the case against Jonathan. He was so openly and almost violently against the Jonathan administration in his speech that he had to be openly rebuked at the meeting by the then Nigerian Ambassador to the US, Ambassador Adebowale Adefuye of blessed memory.

“Admiral Nyako’s belligerence to the Jonathan administration was so venomous that it prompted a rebuttal from the Gombe State Governor, Alhaji Ibrahim Hassan Dankwambo, who showed loyalty to the then Nigerian president.

“This prompted most of the other Northern governors present to turn on him.”

Page said after the State Department meeting, the governors went for a follow up meeting at the White House on March 18, 2014 and met with the then U.S. National Security Adviser, Ms. Susan Rice.

When asked specifically if the Obama administration was against the re-election of Jonathan, Page said: “My objective opinion is that it was not as if the administration was against Jonathan. There were a number of issues.

“The Obama administration was a bit disappointed (I know that sounds paternalistic) but there were some issues they had felt let down on.

“The human rights situation in the North-east, which has still not changed under Continued on page 12

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NEWS

Three Female Suicide Bombers Killed at Military Outpost NAF sustains aerial bombardment on terrorists’ cells Michael Olugbode in Maiduguri Attempted suicide attacks on Maiduguri by three females were foiled on Wednesday night.

According to a press statement by the spokesman of the National Emergency Management Authority (NEMA), Abdulkadir Ibrahim the three teenage females with explosive strapped on them died.

Ibrahim said a security officer, who was among those who intercepted the three teenagers, was injured.

The statement read: “Yesterday (Wednesday) night at 10:05pm, three female teenage suicide bombers attempted to attack a military outpost popularly known as “Gontanamo” along Muna garage.

“They were sighted trying to gain access to the premises and were shot by the security personnel leading to the detonation of their concealed explosives, which killed all three of them and injured one of the security personnel.”

Ibrahim revealed that the

has sustained its aerial bombardments of terrorists’ cells in the North-east.

A statement by the Nigerian Army spokesman, Brig.-Gen. Sani Kukasheka Usman acknowledged that there had been several enquiries on the rumoured wounding of Boko Haram’s factional leader Abubakar Shekau, but fell short of confirming the rumour.

He said: “As you are aware, the Boko Haram terrorists have been on the run, but now they have nowhere to go. We wish to confirm that there are ongoing clearance operations in various parts of the North-east by the military.

“The Nigerian Air Force specifically has been carrying out excellent aerial bombardments with utmost precision to the point that they have destroyed the Boko Haram terrorists’ logistics, weapons and equipment and neutralised quite a number of terrorists in Mangusum, various parts of Sambisa including Balla and Parisu.

“The ongoing renewed combat readiness and good efforts by the Nigerian

Air Force are indeed very commendable, as it led to the recovery of high calibre weapons and further decimation of the remnants of the Boko Haram terrorists.

“There were indications that quite a number of the terrorists key leaders have either been killed or wounded.

“Efforts are ongoing to further confirm the details from our troops who have been involved in Operation DEEP PUNCH.” Usman added that the Nigerian Army Special Forces School (NASFS) at a brief ceremony handed over of a water point established for a community on the outskirts of Buni Yadi in Yobe State, as part of efforts to enhance civilian-military relations.

He said the water point was drawn from an industrial borehole and was handed over to Lawal Abubakar Adam of Fulatari in Buni Yadi by Brig.-Gen. MG Ali, Commandant of the NASFS. “Present were the ward heads of the four benefiting communities,” the army spokesman said.

there was a major disparity between the votes cast for the presidential and National Assembly elections in Kano State in 2015.

Jonathan had said in Adeniyi’s book: “Go and check the results from Kano.

The presidential election and that of the National Assembly happened on the same day and same time. The National Assembly result reflected that about 800,000 people voted but that of the presidential election reflected a vote of about 1.8 million”.

But Usman said Jonathan’s claim was factually inaccurate, pointing out that the official figures released at the end of the elections had nothing unusual about them and insisted they reflected a general trend in the country.

“The figures ascribed to each of the two elections in the earlier statement were nowhere near the actual number of voters in the officially declared results of the two elections,” he said in

a statement made available to THISDAY yesterday.

According to him, “In truth, therefore, the total number of votes cast in the 2015 presidential election in Kano State was 2,172,447, as captured on INEC’s official results collation document, the Presidential Election Summary of Results from States ‘Form EC 8D (A)’, a stamped and sealed copy of which was given out to agents of all the 14 political parties on the ballot, as well as to representatives of each of the security agencies present at the International Conference Centre Results Collation Centre, following the formal declaration of results by the commission in the early hours of Tuesday, March 31, 2015.”

He said the total votes scored by the two leading political parties in the contest for the three senatorial districts of the state was 2,097,881, excluding rejected ballots and votes scored by

the remaining political parties that contested for the election in each senatorial District, explaining that rejected votes could be responsible for the difference of 74,566 between the total votes cast in the presidential and senatorial elections.

Usman added that the total votes scored by the two leading political parties in the House of Representatives election across the state was 2,032,472, excluding rejected ballots and votes scored by the remaining political parties that contested for the election.

“From the foregoing breakdown of votes tally across the three elections conducted on March 28, 2015 in Kano State, therefore, it is quite evident that any allusion to a probable disparity of one million votes between the number of people that voted in the presidential election and those that voted in either of the two National Assembly elections is nothing but an illusion,” he said.

of government had not slowed because of Buhari’s absence from cabinet meetings and other public events. “Nothing is being delayed,” she said.

But as Adeosun banked on stable oil prices and improved on earnings from tax to fund the country’s infrastructure projects, oil prices dropped yesterday to their lowest level since last November, with Brent breaking below $50, amid concerns of rising global supply and still high inventories.

At 11.22am EDT, WTI crude was trading down 2.82 per cent at $46.47, while Brent was down 2.62 per cent at $49.46 -- with both WTI and Brent having effectively wiped out all the price gains since OPEC announced on 30 November 2016 the output freeze deal aimed at reducing oversupply and propping up prices.

On Wednesday, a day after the American Petroleum Institute (API) injected a bit of optimism among traders by reporting a crude oil inventory draw of 4.2 million barrels, the EIA once again poured cold water on the oil bulls by reporting a much smaller decline, of 900,000 barrels, against expectations for a decrease of 2.3 million barrels.

While U.S. crude oil inventories have declined in the past couple of weeks, stocks are still at 527.8 million barrels, near the upper limit of the average range for this time of year.

In addition, production from countries not signatories to the OPEC/Non-OPEC deal – most notably the U.S. – is on a continuous rise since that very same deal managed to lift oil prices and keep them steadier at above $50 for a

few months.

“At some point, the market should recognise OPEC isn’t the most important player in the market any more. That is non-OPEC, and, above all, U.S. shale,” Commerzbank analyst Eugen Weinberg told Reuters.

Comments and speculation ahead of OPEC’s meeting on May 25 in Vienna would likely bring prices back to the $50s, according to Weinberg. “Still, the damage is there and I wouldn’t be surprised to see lower levels this summer after the meeting,” he noted.

OPEC is expected to decide at its meeting at the end of May whether to extend the production freeze deal, with inventories still not drawing down as fast as expected, and oil prices now basically at the same level at which the deal was announced.

Emergency workers evacuating corpses from the scene of the foiled suicide attacks corpses of the trio were evacuated to the Borno State Specialist Hospital, Maiduguri

by emergency aid workers.

Despite the seemingly unending attempts at suicide

attacks, the Nigerian military said yesterday that the Nigerian Air Force (NAF)

NEW BOOK JUSTIFIES JONATHAN’S CLAIM OBAMA ADMINISTRATION INFLUENCED HIS DEFEAT Buhari, and Diezani AlisonMadueke, who they felt should have been removed.

“There were some issues with some clauses in the Same Sex Marriage (Prohibition) Bill 2013.”

Intent on drawing a linkage between the governors’ meetings and the presidential election, Omokri wrote: “Another interesting connection is that these high level meetings arranged for Northern governors by the Obama administration took place in 2014, at the same time that Obama confidant and former White House Senior Advisor, Mr. David Axelrod’s firm, AKPD Message and Media, began to work as a paid consultant to the then Nigerian opposition party, All Progressive Congress.”

He argued: “Subliminal messages were communicated

by President Obama when he took the unusual step of addressing Nigerians on March 23, 2015, just five days to the presidential elections

on March 28, 2015.

“In that broadcast, Obama told Nigerians: ‘Now you have an historic opportunity to help write the next chapter of Nigeria’s progress by voting in the upcoming elections…Boko Haram wants to destroy Nigeria and all that you have built.

By casting your ballot you can help secure your nation’s progress.’

“Note the words ‘next chapter’. During the present Fourth Republic, Nigeria had had four successful presidential elections before 2015. 2015 was not a ‘next chapter’. The only way it would have been a next chapter would be for the incumbent to be unseated by the opposition.”

Commenting on Omokri’s book, Jonathan’s media assistant, Mr. Ikechukwu Eze, said Page’s comments confirmed what was already known by many Nigerians on the outcome of 2015 presidential election.

He, however, urged Nigerians to wait for his boss’ account, adding: “Only then will people realise that Jonathan’s claims did not stem from sour grapes, but from a patriotic attempt to ensure that future elections are decided by the Nigerian people without any undue foreign influence.”

Jonathan had in a short reaction on his Facebook page to diverse and critical comments on his claims, said: “At the right time, the main characters in the elections, including myself will come out with a true account of what transpired, either in major interviews or books.”

Kano Votes Not Unusual In the meantime, Usman, the former personal assistant to Jega, the former INEC chairman that conducted the election in which Jonathan was shown the exit, has controverted the former president’s claim that

ADEOSUN: FG WILL SPEND ON INFRASTRUCTURE TO EXIT RECESSION growth there’ll be will be a function of a number of things — number one, sustained oil production and number two the impact of some of the polices we’ve pushed.”

Nigeria, Africa’s most populous nation with 180m people, produces less than 4,000MW and power shortages are seen as a critical constraint on businesses.

The government made similar pledges last year to invest in infrastructure to create jobs and drive growth, but spent less than a third of the N1.8 trillion ($5.9bn) budgeted for capital projects.

That was blamed on funding shortfalls and delays caused by the late passage of the budget.

Adeosun insisted this year will be different. “We haven’t taken a scattergun approach, we’re focusing on rail and we want to do it sensibly and

sustainably,” she said.

Nigeria, which depends on petrodollars for 70 per cent of state revenues and 90 per cent of export earnings, is also grappling with a severe foreign exchange shortage and a fiscal deficit the IMF estimates will widen to 3.7 per cent of gross domestic product (GDP) this year.

The IMF has also raised concern over Nigeria’s “higher than historical” debt servicing costs, which doubled in 2016 to 66 per cent of revenue, as the government has borrowed to fund capital expenditure.

Adeosun said the government was committed to raising revenue by improving tax collection and cutting wasteful spending, saying it had culled 58,000 ghost workers on the state’s payroll last year.

“As a people and as a

government, we’re chastened by what happened last year,” she said.

“We’ve messaged strongly to our people . . . that fiscal discipline has to be a permanent feature. We are going to continue with this reform programme.”

However, concerns over the health of President Muhammadu Buhari, 74, have raised additional questions about the government’s ability to implement its policies.

Buhari spent almost two months in London receiving medical treatment earlier this year for an undisclosed illness.

He has not been seen outside the presidential villa since his return to Abuja, the capital, in early March and failed to chair a cabinet meeting on Wednesday — the third in a row he has missed.

But Adeosun said the pace

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COMMENT

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

LESSONS FROM AGAINST THE RUN OF PLAY (1) Little changes overtime can have big effect, writes Emmanuel Ojeifo

W

ith the exception of politicians and frontline political parties, no group has done more soul searching since the 2015 presidential election than journalists. And the reason is simple. The media played perhaps the most significant role in the high and low moments of that democratic transition. Some people say the election was first won in the media before it was won at the polling booth. With his recently published book, Against the Run of Play (2017), Olusegun Adeniyi has continued to focus the attention of the public on that watershed in our political evolution as a nation. The book retells familiar stories with new eyes and unusual insight. It aggregates in gripping prosaic narrative style the constellation of factors behind the defeat of an incumbent democratic president, for the first time in Nigeria’s political history.

As expected, Adeniyi proves, once again, to be Nigeria’s king of suspense reportorial journalism, as he has done with his weekly column in THISDAY newspaper for the past two decades. He elevates the reportorial component of journalism – that part that sends out people to gather and verify facts (what Bill Kovach and Tom Rosenstiel once called the Journalism of Verification) – to a level of prominence, and adopts it as the standard for disciplined and transparent journalism. When I first met Adeniyi in 2012 in his office at Shehu Musa Yar’Adua Centre, as our conversation unfolded, he described himself not as a journalist but as a “field reporter.” He loves field journalism where he simply gathers information and reports what he has observed. Although it is nearly impossible for the journalist to avoid imposing unconscious bias and subjectivity into the storyline, Adeniyi often succeeds in refraining from interfering with the plot. He simply sketches the story and leaves his readers to tease out the hidden message.

Since its official launch, Adeniyi’s book has been a hotbed of controversy and critical reviews in the public space. The political thriller has woken up sleeping dogs, with many of the political dramatis personae itching to tell their own sides of the story. For Nigeria’s democracy, this is a plus. Democracy grows through constant exchange of ideas in the public square, and Adeniyi’s book can seriously help to generate the needed temperature for the kind of political engineering that could redeem our nation. I have read the 204-paged book from cover to cover, and I can bet on it. It is a book you cannot afford to put down until you flip over the very last page.

Adeniyi writes with a seductive effect. He holds you in palpable suspense as you hurriedly flip over to the next page, eager to know what will happen. As you do this, you’re bound to hold your breath as he takes you on a journey through familiar paths with new eyes.

The book comes across to me as a dispassionate bystander’s account of one of Africa’s historic democratic transitions, and how both triumph and defeat coincide in the denouement. On the

DEMOCRACY GROWS THROUGH CONSTANT EXCHANGE OF IDEAS IN THE PUBLIC SQUARE, AND ADENIYI’S BOOK CAN SERIOUSLY HELP TO GENERATE THE NEEDED TEMPERATURE FOR THE KIND OF POLITICAL ENGINEERING THAT COULD REDEEM OUR NATION

question of democratic transitions in Africa, Adeniyi happens to be a rising expert. After his three-year stint as presidential spokesman (2007–2010), he took up a Fellowship at the Weatherhead Center for International Affairs at Harvard University, where his research culminated in a monograph on factors that shape incumbent democratic transitions in Africa. One imagines that the idea of writing Against the Run of Play is the result of a fertilisation of ideas from his Harvard period. Interestingly, it is in this new book that Adeniyi fully showcases his mastery of the art of political story telling. He is an umpire, a reporter, a juggler of both sensitive and sensational information, and a wordsmith, who tries to remove himself from the picture so that his characters are clearly amplified.

I am pretty sure that the book will add a great wealth of knowledge to the growing library of books that critically analyse Nigeria and Nigerian politics.

In exposing how a series of contested factors, political intrigues, fatal errors, careless miscalculations and unresolved blunders led to the ouster of Dr. Goodluck Jonathan and his Peoples Democratic Party from power, only 16 years after the party’s nauseating boast of holding power hostage for 60 years, Adeniyi shows that little things really matter, and that often, little causes have bigger, unforeseen effects. This sociological realism has been explored in great detail by one of America’s most gifted reporters, Malcolm Gladwell in his 2002 book, Tipping Point: How Little Things can make a Big Difference. According to Gladwell, the best way to understand the emergence of phenomenal social changes that mark everyday life is to think of them as epidemics. Epidemics, according to Gladwell, exhibit three distinguishing characteristics. One: they are highly contagious. Two: little changes can have big effects. Three: that change happens not gradually but at one dramatic moment.

Whether they are fashion trends, diseases, behavioural patterns or political revolutions, to appreciate the power of epidemics we have to prepare ourselves for the possibility that, sometimes, big changes often follow from small and insignificant events; and that sometimes these changes can happen quickly. Gladwell’s theorisation helps us to understand that political disasters, like plane crashes, are more likely to be the result of a steady accumulation of minor difficulties and seemingly trivial malfunctions. One mistake is made and it is not corrected, and it leads to another blunder that by itself is not really much of a problem. Then another mistake is made on top of that, and then another and another and another and another, and it is the combination of all these blunders that leads to disaster. That is how to understand the constellation of issues that threw Dr. Jonathan out of the Villa and the triumph of President Buhari. But herein lies the crucial lesson for Buhari and the verdict that ominously hangs over his wobbling government.

He is repeating the same mistakes of the past.

Ojeifo is a Catholic priest of the Archdiocese of Abuja

WALKING WITH A FRIEND IN THE DARK

H

is story vividly illustrates the popular saying that the best reward for hard work is an opportunity to do more. He was about concluding his five-year single tenure as the 11th Vice-Chancellor of University of Ibadan in 2015 when President Muhammadu Buhari rewarded the spirit of hard work in him with a fresh appointment as Health Minister.

However , critics of Prof. Isaac Folorunso Adewole had thought he would soon collapse on the job for he has never taken time to rest, given the enormity of the job he did in UI. But, instead of manifesting signs of fatigue, the health minister keeps waxing stronger, traversing the length and breadth of the country in service of humanity. He is 63 years old, having been born on May 5, 1954. Who says heroes are not born to do more?

To be candid, Prof. Adewole can probably be seen as a phenomenon; for the more one tries to unravel him, the more he riddles himself into further unfathomableness. His cerebral endowments startle everyone. From primary through secondary schools, he posted a unique and unassailable impressive record of coming first in his class. At Ilesa Grammar School which he attended between 1966 and 1972, his mates testified that “any time there was a competition involving physics, chemistry, biology, you could be certain that Isaac would carry the day!” He repeated the same academic wizardry at the University of Ibadan when he enrolled as a National Award Scholar in 1973 and obtained his MB.BS degree in 1978, winning the Glaxo Allenbury prize for the best overall performance in Pediatrics.

Any wonder he is health minister today?

Having worked with him for five years as his media assistant, this writer is of the view that Prof.

Adewole is a man of amazing grace and courtly civility. He is not just a star, but a shining star among the galaxy of stars. “Ifa”, (oracle) as he is being

Sunday Saanu pays tribute to Isaac Adewole, Health Minister, at age 63

fondly addressed by his close friends, is indeed a beacon and blistering light in usually impossible tunnels. Part of his greatest assets is his belief in himself, and those not so sure-footed confuse such passion of conviction as arrogance. But he never gets discouraged even when his motives are misjudged.

Practically, in all his undertakings, Prof. Adewole usually demonstrates outstanding resourcefulness, foresight and dogged determination in his efforts to make marks. Immediately President Buhari appointed him, those who knew what he could do believed that a new day has dawned in health sector. And, so far, he has not disappointed the nation in his service delivery. He has been fighting the menace of meningitis with zest and aplomb. He has led doctors to carry out fistula surgeries across the country. It is thrilling seeing him on television performing surgery operations despite his status as minister. He is in his element when it comes to health matters.

Indeed, President Buhari made the right choice with his appointment as health minister. In my recent visit to him in his office in Abuja, Prof.

Adewole spoke passionately about his desire to ensure that Nigerians get the best health-care delivery. According to him, “the health sector is like the economy and you cannot separate the health sector from the economy. In fact, many countries have improvements in their economy when they recorded improvements in health sector: Malaysia, Thailand among others are ready examples”. As part of his strategic plans therefore, the erudite minister promised to revitalise the primary healthcare policy because that is the base. Prof. Adewole noted that 70 per cent of Nigerians could receive care at primary care level”.

Evidently, the polyvalence of his talents readily enables him to function effectively and brilliantly succeed in any capacity he is called to play. He came into his present office on the wave-crest of his out-

standing performance in UI as VC. Prof. Adewole’s administration in UI had significant impact on the taste and tone of the institution’s social and cultural landscape. Any day, any time, he stands out on his own perch as he is perceptually acute.

Interestingly, one of his strong points is his ability to quickly network and share with people of like minds. Prof. Adewole, in other words, could be described as a creative cultivator of acquaintanceship and companionship. His network of his friends, associates and admirers cut across the strata of Nigerian society and beyond. For instance, one of his friends, retired Prof. Dieter Wenzel from far away Wroclaw, Poland challenged me to ensure that this tribute is done for the health minister, saying, “Isaac is a transcendental icon who deserves to be celebrated. If a foreigner could be so passionate about our own IFA, why should we then find it difficult to applaud this rare breed?

Adewole strongly subscribes to the belief of an American author, a political activist, Helen Keller who posits that walking with a friend in the dark is far better than walking alone in the light. Indeed, the minister himself has said the greatest healing therapy in life is friendship and love. It is therefore his pastime to find solace in the fortress of friends.

Some have described him as a man of the people, approximating a metaphorical puller of the moth to the lamp.

With all the swagger that is all his, Prof. Adewole conducts himself with class and confidence. His charisma, as well as his camaraderie is difficult to ignore! He enjoys taking the route less travelled to achieve his aim. He is fearless; he freely shares his confidence with people and keeps his fright to himself. He does his due diligence on any matter. Prof.

Adewole will neither call a meeting, nor attend any, without first of all, reading through all the relevant documents and available literature. He hardly sleeps.

At different occasions, I have sent messages to him

in the dead of the night when you probably think he would be sleeping; to your surprise, he would just reply, leaving you wondering if he ever sleeps.

Above all, Prof, Adewole is a man of prayer, highly spiritual. He dissects issues spiritually, just as he constantly admonishes you to go and pray on any nagging matter. There was a time I went to his office and complained against persecution from certain quarters. His response was as shocking as it was consolatory. “Go and relax”, he said to my amazement. His words “you are saying they hate you, what about Jesus Christ, did they not hate Him? What about me, did they not persecute me before I became VC? Did they not write petition against me? How can you be writing such articles and be getting popular and you think they will love you?” Case closed, so I went back to my office.

Strikingly, Prof. Adewole does not reward beneficence with ingratitude. He recognises every good deed and appropriately rewards such. He will call you and thank you profusely and normally conclude his conversation with “cheers”. At public functions, his audiences are never, and will never be bored with his delivery. He usually garnishes issues at stake with humour and rib-cracking jokes. He always has a way of keeping the ball on the bounce!

However, since there is no error-proof man in life, Prof. Adewole certainly has his own foibles. Part of his idiosyncrasies to the best of my knowledge, may not probably be intentional, but could definitely be hurting. He often finds it difficult to fulfil some of the promises he makes. Perhaps as a result of pressure. This could probably be forgiven as every man has his limitations. But, beyond this, Prof.

Adewole is highly gregarious. He is awesome. His present exploits and feats are to the pride of his mentees and devotees among whom I am happy to be numbered.

Saanu is with the Directorate of Public Communication, University of Ibadan

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T H I S D AY •FRIDAY MAY 5, 2017

EDITORIAL ENDING MALARIA FOR GOOD There is still much to do to rout the malaria scourge

P

eople across the world recently commemorated World Malaria Day with the theme, “End Malaria for Good”. It was yet another reminder to the health authorities in Nigeria that though much has been achieved, a lot more needed to be done to eliminate the malaria scourge.

According to the World Health Organisation, more than 663 million cases were averted in sub-Saharan Africa since 2001. But the continent cannot still rest on its laurels. “WHO recommended tools have made a measurable difference in the global malaria fight. But we need a much bigger push for prevention, especially in Africa, which bears the greatest burden of malaria,” declared the Director-General of WHO, Dr. Margaret Chan. Indeed, Prof. Isaac Adewole, Minister of Health, said the country was far from realising its dream of “malaria –free- Nigeria.” Even though the country has reduced the prevalence rate from 42 per cent in 2010 to 27 per cent in 2015, malaria is still a major public health concern. He said though the current Malaria Strategic Plan was focused, “but COMBATING MALARIA it is coming at a time REQUIRES MULTIFACETED when the resources ACTIONS AND for malaria control PARTNERSHIPS INVOLVING are dwindling,” since PUBLIC AND PRIVATE, there were “limited INTERNATIONAL AND CIVIL resources for effective programme coordinaSOCIETY SECTORS tion, monitoring and evaluation.” The Pharmaceutical Society of Nigeria painted the prevailing grave situation when it said our country accounted for one third of global malaria deaths at close to 150,000 yearly.

Malaria, a disease transmitted through the bites of infected mosquitoes, is perhaps the leading cause of death in Nigeria, particularly among children under the age of five and pregnant women. According to records, malaria is responsible for about 60 per cent outpatient visits to hospitals and 30 per cent childhood deaths. The National Malaria Elimination Programme put the cost estimate

Letters to the Editor

P

of malaria to the Nigeria economy at a staggering N132 billion annually.

What makes the situation particularly worrisome is that there is a significant slowdown in global funding of anti-malaria campaigns. In its World Malaria Report 2012, for instance, WHO noted that rapid expansion in global funding for malaria prevention and control between 2004 and 2009 levelled off between 2010 and 2012.

Yet statistics revealed that malaria struck an estimated 219 million people across the world in 2010, killing about 660,000, mostly children under five years of age.

B 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

EDITOR-IN-CHIEF/CHAIRMAN NDUKA OBAIGBENA GROUP EXECUTIVE DIRECTORS ENIOlA BEllO, KAYODE KOMOlAFE, IsRAEl IWEGBU, IJEOMA NWOGWUGWU GROUP FINANCE DIRECTOR OlUFEMI ABOROWA DIVISIONAL DIRECTORS pETER IWEGBU, FIDElIs ElEMA, ANThONY OGEDENGBE DEPUTY DIVISIONAL DIRECTOR OJOGUN VICTOR DANBOYI SNR. ASSOCIATE DIRECTOR ERIC OJEh ASSOCIATE DIRECTORS hENRY NWAChOKOR, sAhEED ADEYEMO CONTROLLERS ABIMBOlA TAIWO, UChENNA DIBIAGWU, NDUKA MOsERI GENERAL MANAGER pATRICK EIMIUhI GROUP HEAD FEMI TOlUFAshE DIRECTOR, PRINTING PRODUCTION ChUKs ONWUDINJO TO SEND EMAIL: first name.surname@thisdaylive.com

ut there is hope for a better tomorrow. We are heartened by the efforts to develop the world’s first malaria vaccine. The WHO said ahead of this year’s commemoration that babies and children in the high-risk areas of Ghana, Kenya and Malawi would be injected with a vaccine named “Mosquirix” as part of real-life trials. The vaccine was developed to protect children from the malaria scourge in Africa.

But for now, combating malaria requires multifaceted actions and partnerships involving public and private, international and civil society sectors.

The federal government has shown some commitment to tackling the disease by allocating more resources to malaria control programme in the 2017 appropriation bill. To the extent that defeating malaria is critical to ending poverty and improving maternal and child health, Nigeria cannot afford to do less. Unfortunately, there is still much more to be done.

That is why we appeal to international and local donors to invest more in the fight against the deadly but preventable disease. We must ensure that the five principles adopted by the WHO member states in 2015 – Global Technical Strategy and Targets for Malaria 2016-2030 - are adhered to and pursued with enthusiasm.

These are acceleration of efforts towards elimination; country ownership and leadership, with the involvement and participation of communities; improved surveillance, monitoring and evaluation; equity in access to health services; and innovation in tools and implementation approaches.

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.

PRESIDENT BUHARI’S MESSAGE TO ERDOGAN

resident Muhammadu Buhari had sent a congratulatory message to his counterpart, President Recep Erdogan of Turkey, over his victory in the just concluded referendum that sought a yes vote for Erdogan. But the Parliamentary Assembly of the Council of Europe (PACE) has rejected a proposal given by Turkey’s ruling Justice and Development Party (AKP) deputies to use a derogatory word, FETO, to replace the Gulen Movement.

The message from President Buhari to Erdogan was, ordinarily, one conveying official greetings on the aftermath of the referendum polls, which political watchers and scholars described as diplomatic mockery.

Fethulah Terrorist Organisation, FETÖ, is a derogatory term which amounts to a hate speech and relentlessly perpetuated by President Erdoan and his government to smear the Gülen movement which is inspired by the US-based Turkish Muslim intellectual Fethullah Gülen. Gulen is one of the vocal critics of Turkish government. Gülen has been outspoken against Turkey’s autocratic President Erdoan on corruption as well as Ankara’s aiding and abetting of radical groups in Syria with regard to illegal shipment in January 2014.

No one can compare the comatose regime of President Erdogan to the liberties and rights that exist in Nigeria. Journalists in Nigeria exercise their right to report without hindrance, which of course informed the decision of the Presidency to apologise to The Punch reporter recently and immediately had him reinstated into his beat at the Villa.

President Buhari merely congratulated Erdogan without any form of official endorsement to the political rascality of the Turkish President which has limited interface and partly led to the country’s disqualification from the membership of the European Union.

I have carefully followed reactions and comments in some of the national dailies and have come to the conclusion that both President Buhari and President Donald Trump did not send messages of congratulations to Turkey to endorse Erdogan’s despotic rule.

Both leaders forwarded mere greetings to their Turkish counterpart who manipulated a yes vote to his advantage at the kangaroo referendum that was held to confirm an earlier position by a rubber stamp parliament.

Erdoan is witch-hunting Gülen and his followers and has vowed to pursue them abroad. Turkish government shut down all institutions affiliated with the movement and jailed almost 50,000 people in the last nine months. He labelled the movement as ‘FETÖ’, a terrorist organisation, although Gülen, 75-year- old cleric, and his followers had never advocated nor preached violence, radicalism and terror in the name of religion.

President Buhari’s message which was signed by his spokesperson Femi Adesina made a caricature of President Erdogan by saying the outcome of the referendum showcased the democratic credentials of Turkey and the willingness of the people to work together to sustain the growth and development of the country.

How can a divisive nation like Turkey work together? The letter of congratulation was embellished with profane and deliberate pretentious official conduct that is normal within diplomatic circles.

Erdoan has also blamed the failed coup bid last year on Gülen, but failed to present any direct evidence linking the cleric to the attempt.

Gülen himself strongly denied any involvement. Many believe Erdoan staged the failed coup himself to set up his critics for a mass persecution and as a pretext to transform secular parliamentary democracy to political Islamist autocracy.

There is no country and head of government around the world that will lend support to the political aggrandisement going on in Turkey right now.

AKP lawmakers have also wanted to drop the word “purges” from highly critical PACE report, but they have also failed to do so.

The language of the report has been toughened further by the new amendments that were approved against the wishes of Erdoanist AKP deputies. At least four amendments by the ruling party AKP lawmakers have failed to pass.

PACE met recently to discuss whether to degrade Turkey’s status and reopen a monitoring process against the country. PACE has called for monitoring of Turkey to be reinstated in order to strengthen its cooperation with Turkish authorities and all forces in the country and thus ensure respect for fundamental freedoms, the rule of law and democracy.

In a recent report prepared by PACE, it pointed out that the AKP government had adopted “disproportionate measures” beyond what is permitted by the Turkish constitution and international law, and expressed concern about the extent of the purges conducted in public administration, in the military, the judiciary and the teaching profession.

While acknowledging the trauma caused by the failed coup attempt of July 15, 2016 and the ongoing terrorist threats, the monitoring committee stated that they were concerned about the implementation of the state of emergency, the large-scale and disproportionate effect of the decree – including the massive dismissal of civil servants, judges, prosecutors and academics and the closing down of media and NGOs – as well as limited access to judicial remedies.

Ofem Uket, Abuja

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17

T H I S D AY • FRIDAY, MAY 5, 2017

POLITICS

Group Politics Editor Tobi Soniyi Email tobi.soniyi@thisdaylive.com 08033146139 SMS ONLY

PERSONALITY FOCUS

The Political Persecution of Lamido

Since it became clear that he wants to seek election into the office of the president, former Jigawa State governor, Alhaji Sule Lamido has been facing what many consider political persecution. His travails do not appear to be subsiding under President Muhammadu Buhari, writes Shola Oyeyipo

D

uring the build up to the 2015 presidential election, former Jigawa State governor, Alhaji Sule Lamido was apparently one of the lone voices that harped on the need for the former ruling Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) to do things properly to avoid the waterloo the party eventually suffered at the elections.

Apart, from the fact that his advice was thrown to the dustbin, he and his sons soon became regular visitors at the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) for alleged money laundering and other sundry offences.

Although, Lamido had been named by former President Olusegun Obasanjo as a possible replacement for Jonathan when the relationship between them went sour, the former governor however, maintained that his chastisement of the former PDP national leadership was not borne out of the quest for presidency but to ensure that PDP maintain its position as the ruling party and largest party in Africa by doing what is right.

But while the disquiet that characterised the ranks of the PDP was well-documented, Lamido a renowned politician who collaborated with other notable Nigerians to oust the Abacha military leadership and participated actively in the formation of the PDP, has simply become a victim of his boldness and quest for orderliness in his party.

In what is seen as a direct consequence of his audacity to challenge the powers that be, Lamido and his sons; Aminu Sule Lamido, Mustapha Sule Lamido and one Aminu Wada Abubakar were arraigned by the EFCC on allegations of money laundering and for allegedly receiving N1.35billion kickbacks from a government contractor. There were 28 count charges relating to alleged breach of trust by Lamido in all.

Lamido’s adversities, no doubt should be instructive lessons in leadership and politicking in Nigeria. For instance, when the trial judge in the corruption case that was brought up against him, Justice Evelyn Anyadike insisted on remanding him in prison custody along with his sons for nearly three months for unproven allegations, not a few Nigerians were baffled.

All pleas by the defence counsel, Effiong Effiong (SAN), who pleaded that they should be remanded in EFCC custody fell on deaf ears of Justice Anyadike who said the commission lacked the facilities to keep them.

Back then former military administrator of Kaduna State, Col Abubakar Umar had expressed shock at the court’s decision to keep Lamido and his sons in prison for that long.

Speaking on the platform of the Movement for Unity and Progress (MUP), Umar felt the move was unnecessarily punitive and designed to demoralise the former governor rather than a routine judicial process.

“The offence for which Lamido and his two sons were charged is clearly an offence for which they can be bailed. This is why it appears strange that not only were they refused bail but they are remanded in prison custody for about three months. This means that both Sule and his sons have started serving prison sentence even before the commencement of their trial”, Umar lamented and urged every well-meaning Nigerian to call on Justice Anyadike to temper justice with mercy and uphold the constitutional tenet that provides that an accused person can only become culpable after facts have shown that they truly committed the offence.

While the former governor was still bat-

Lamido...in trouble because of his ambition

tling the litigation that trailed his case with the EFCC, as if the ploy is to brand him as perpetual visitor to law enforcement agents, police from the office of the Assistant Inspector General of Police (AIG) in charge of Zone 1, Kano, Kayode Aderanti, on April 30 arrested the former governor for allegedly planning to scuttle the forthcoming local government elections slated for July 1 in the state.

The police spokesperson in the zone, Sambo Sokoto, who confirmed the arrest, said Lamido was invited to answer question following a petition to investigate the former governor over his alleged utterances that is considered capable of inciting violence and undermining the peace of the state in the forthcoming local government elections in the state.

The content of the petition written by the state government which was translated from Hausa, allegedly stated that Lamido, at a PDP meeting in Dutse, the Jigawa State capital, told is his supporters that “Before the election I will make every one of you swear with his life to protect our cause. No matter what, I will not listen to you for complaining. All I want is to come for your bail in the police station breaking another person’s head or you fought someone because the administration belongs to mad people.”

According to Sokoto, the ex-governor’s utterance constitutes an offence in that it is contrary to Section 114 of the Penal Code.

Hence, he said investigations are ongoing and

Lamido’s party, the PDP suspects foul play. The party perceives Lamido’s arrest and detention as politically motivated and the handiwork of the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC). The party’s National Publicity Secretary, Prince Dayo Adeyeye, in a statement noted that the real motive for Lamido’s arrest was political.

that Lamido would be charged to court at the end of the investigations. While conceding the fact that freedom of speech has its limitation, in saner countries, suspects are arrested after investigation and not when investigation was going on.

Though it could be rightly argued that the police have the full responsibility to protect lives and property and that nobody is above the law but what can be deduced from Lamido’s latest predicament is that he told his supporters to do everything possible to ensure that the July 1 local government elections are not rigged just like most politicians did before the 2015 general election and nobody was held accountable for such inciting statements.

Agreed that pro-Buhari commentators argued that the Hausa proverb credited to the president in the build up to the election to the effect that kare jini biri jinni, which was translated to mean “If what happened in 2011 (alleged rigging) should again happen in 2015, by the grace of God, the dog and the baboon would all be soaked in blood”, was not properly translated and that the correct interpretation “Come 2015, I promise you, the fight will be fierce”, the question is, are politicians supposed to be allowed to go that far in a society where volatility is part of our daily lives?

If the president’s vow that there would be a fierce fight if there is a repeat of the events that characterised the 2011 election could be pardoned on the basis of the discrepancy in the interpretation, should government not have taken precise actions against ex-militant leader, Mr. Government Ekpemopulo (aka Tompolo), who openly threatened war over what he described as coordinated attacks on the campaign team of former President Goodluck Jonathan in some northern states. Calling on youths and the political figures from the Niger Delta region to forgive one another and forge a united front, Tompolo had added that: “Let us unite and within seven days, you will see what will happen.”

He was reacting to the stoning of Jonathan’s campaign convoy by youths from some Northern States when he said it was an open declaration of war. “This action is calling the Niger Delta youths to war,” he had said.

Alhaji Asari Dokubo was even more frontal in his own case. He told his people that “Every Niger Delta youth should go and prepare for war. For the past four days, I have not slept well nor have I had a change of clothing. I

have not been to my house. This is the time.

The Northern youths are trying to know how important you are. After this time, no one will play with us. After the 2015 election, no governor will play with us. We are saying we will fight with anything and everything that we have. Ijaw people cannot continue to suffer while other people enjoy.”

In an earlier instance, Dokubo had been quoted to have said that he would make Nigeria ungovernable unless Jonathan secures a second term ticket in the 2015 presidential election.

Then he asked politicians from the North to steer clear of the presidency. Though he was interrogated by the DSS no serious case was brought against him and others who apparently put Nigeria on war path with their utterances.

The fact that others who have made worse statements are walking free and the fact that such statements always fizzle away as soon as politics is over, seem to put credence to the claim by Lamido that what is happening to him is a fallout of his presidential ambition.

The Chief Press Secretary to the former governor, Alhaji Umar Kyari, had told journalists that “The Jigawa State Governor who raised a false alarm against Lamido, is simply scared over his presidential ambition in 2019 and the local elections in the state slated for July 1 this year.

“But it is rather too late for anyone to stop Lamido from achieving his political ambition come 2019 since the people have already seen that he has what it takes to rule Nigeria and lift it out of the woods.”

Lamido’s party, the PDP suspects foul play. The party perceives Lamido’s arrest and detention as politically motivated and the handiwork of the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC).

The party’s National Publicity Secretary, Prince Dayo Adeyeye, in a statement noted that the real motive for Lamido’s arrest was political.

“The APC-led administration is fast loosing the confidence of the people because of its non-performance, high handedness and lack of empathy for the suffering of the people.

The only option left for it is to prevent the opposition from effectively campaigning and mobilising the people for the elections. The whole strategy of the failed APC government is founded on the assumption that if there is no opposition, then they cannot be defeated.

Hence the intimidation, harassment and incarceration of popular opposition leaders like Sule Lamido. We are aware that, we in the opposition will be in for a hard time in the run-up to the 2019 general elections with more arrests and intimidation of our prominent leaders”, Adeyeye alleged.

Whatever the case may be; even if the police nails Lamido, the feeling that he is a victim of the Nigerian kind of politics will not go away soon and this is because there are cases that point to the fact that using state apparatus to suppress opposition is part of Nigerian politics.

It is for this reason that the likes of former Lagos State governor and a strong force within the APC, Senator Bola Tinubu and former Vice President Atiku Abubakar should also beware.

Push your ambition too far and the state will come after you. Tinubu and Abubakar are not new to such intimidation however. Ahead of the 2019 presidential election, especially considering that the race may be opened to new presidential hopefuls, many more victims will certainly emerge. This is because the party is showing a penchant for witch-hunting perceived enemies.

The case of the Senate President, Dr. Bukola Saraki at the Code of Conduct Bureau (CCB) is clearly a good example.

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POLITICS

UPP Battles APGA as New Face of Ndigbo The United Progressive Party founded by Chief Chekwas Okorie, a founding member of the All Progressives Grand Alliance, is seeking to use the forthcoming Anambra governorship election to dislodge APGA. Will it succeed, David-Chyddy Eleke asks

T

he United Progressive Party, UPP a party founded by Chief Chekwas Okorie, a founding member of the All Progressives Grand Alliance(APGA) is moving to dislodge the former as the face of Ndigbo’s participation in politics, writes David-Chyddy Eleke.

Weeks ago, the Anambra State chapter of the UPP conducted its congress and also constituted its state executives. Its aim is to ensure that it repositions and makes an impact in the forthcoming governorship election in Anambra State.

This came weeks after the Customary Government of the Indigenous People of Biafra, CG-IPOB, which consists mainly of the elders of IPOB said it would participate in the politics of Nigeria. In doing so, the group which has a large number of followers in the South East opted for UPP as its official party, calling on all its members to register with the party, and also on politicians who are sympathetic to the Biafran cause to run for elective offices on the platform of the party.

The thinking of the group is that its refusal to participate in the elective process in the country in the past has not helped it to secure freedom for its followers. IPOB now believes that participating in the electoral process would help it to pursue its wider objective of leaving Nigeria.

Therefore by sponsoring candidates for elective post or voting in elected representatives, it could through its members influence the workings of Nigerian government from the south east end and canvass the secession bid at a higher level, even through legislation.

Be that as it may, the preference of UPP over APGA which has been acclaimed to be an authentic Igbo party has to some extent watered down the ‘Igboness’ of the APGA, which had the late Dim Chukwuemeka Odumegwu Ojukwu as its face. With this, the UPP is set to topple APGA as the prefer political party for Ndigbo, and the forthcoming governorship election in the state may be an opportunity for the party to prove itself as it threatens to unseat the incumbent APGA governor, Chief Willie Obiano.

In a recent press release by the party, shortly after the election of its state executives in Anambra, the state publicity secretary, Uche Amaku condemned the politics of acrimony which the APGA has plunged the state into as a result of its inability to foster cohesion for the good of the state. Part of the release read, “The United Progressives Party (UPP), Anambra State chapter has decried the politics of brickbats, name calling and character assassination going on in Anambra State, stressing that what the state needs now was peace-building and ideological politics.

“Anambra UPP hails the reconstitution of the State Working Committee of the party by the National Working Committee, and notes that the party, unlike APGA was coming to groom leaders and empower the people with proper political education and social orientation to make the state occupy its position as the leading state in Southeast and Nigeria as a whole.”

The party had in a congress elected 28-member State Working Committee led

by Dr. Sylvester Igwilo and Fidelis Okafor as chairman and secretary, respectively. The party through Amaku expressed happiness over the decision of the national leadership to heed the quest by diverse people, including the IPOB to join the party and further the political aspiration of the group through an inclusive leadership.

Part of the release reads, “Especially Chief (Dr.) Chekwas Okorie, for heeding the call by various tendencies that joined the party

Okorie...founded UPP after he was edged out of APGA

for an all-inclusive state working committee, we are happy. Having undertaken this seamless reunification of the State Working Committee, with due respect to Article 21 section 2(C) of the UPP constitution, the NWC has placed the ball on the court of Anambra UPP to champion the cause of a new political order in the state.”

Speaking on the government of Anambra State, under APGA leadership, UPP expressed disappointment that instead of scaling up development and ensuring peace and harmony in the state, Governor Willie Obiano stooped so low to engage in needless brickbats with certain personalities, including Mr. Peter Obi and Imo State Governor Rochas Okorocha. It stated:

With this, the UPP is set to topple APGA as the prefer political party for Ndigbo, and the forthcoming governorship election in the state may be an opportunity for the party to prove itself as it threatens to unseat the incumbent APGA governor, Chief Willie Obiano.

“After the tempestuous years of political banditry by the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Ndi Anambra looked forward to the continuity of development and peace when Peter Obi imposed Obiano on the state. But rather than concentrate on the task of building Anambra as the leading state in Igbo land, Obiano forgot how he came and took arms against outsiders to the government.”

It said further, “It is because the governor has shown lack of focus and understanding of the basic ingredients that make Anambra State great that the state has continued to manifest despondency and political delinquency, whereby young men who have been denied participation through local government system have taken to online platforms and social networks to pour insults on their elders. This is not what we bargained for; Anambra should be first again by building its young people and providing purposeful leadership to the people.”

THISDAY reached out to the UPP publicity secretary, Uche Amaku over strategies the party intends to employ to unseat APGA as a party for Ndigbo. Amaku told our correspondent that contrary to what people think, APGA has lost its soul. He said the soul of the party left the day its founder, Chief Chekwas Okorie left the party. Though the party said it had not decided on its governorship candidate, it however expressed confident that anyone it elects in a primary election would surely floor Obiano. He said the party also plans to make an impact in other states in the south east as well. According to him, the party will partner ‘Igbo progressives’ to

make a bold statement in the area.

The party said it was confident that it would beat the incumbent governor of Anambra state, Obiano, in the November 18th governorship election in the state as his party “APGA is today a carcass of its old self.”

Amaku said the party was fully mobilized to battle APGA for the 2018 governorship election. He said: “APGA has today been highjacked by people who are not even aware of the mission of the founding fathers of the party. The soul of the party has long left it, what is left of the party today is its carcass. It is true that UPP and APGA were founded by the same leader, Chief Chekwas Okorie, but it is obvious that APGA lost its bearing and focus to serve as a platform for marginalized persons in Nigeria, especially Ndigbo to participate fully in the country’s Democratic system.”

He said APGA is now a political instrument of a few individuals that has failed to serve as its intended purpose of mainstreaming the collective aspiration of Igbos. Speaking on the recent endorsement of the party by the pro-Biafra group, Indigenous People of Biafra, IPOB, Amaku said some members of the group were its members, and they had no problem with that as the group has never been violent. “We are not partnering with them, you cannot partner a political party, rather some of their members are in our party. We are giving them the opportunity to be a part of the democratic system in Nigeria. APGA, which is supposed to be an Igbo party has not demonstrated that it was sympathetic to the Igboman cause.

They have derailed from the original reason for the formation of the party,” he said.

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T H I S D AY • FRIDAY, MAY 5, 2017

BUSINESSWORLD R A T E S NIBOR OVERNIGHT 1-MONTH

A S

NIBOR

15.3333% 17.0332%

A T

3-MONTH 6-MONTH

20.1621% 23.1621%

M A R C H 9 , NITTY 1-MONTH 2-MONTH

Group Business Editor Chika Amanze-Nwachuku

Email chika.amanzenwachukwu@thisdaylive.com 08033294157

2 0 1 7

13.0970% 14.0684%

3-MONTH 6-MONTH

15.7898% 19.6644%

EXCHANGE RATE N305.50//1US DOLLAR* *AS AT LAST FRIDAY

Quick Takes Arik Resumes Flight to Maiduguri

Arik Air has announced the resumption of flight operations to Maiduguri, Borno State via Abuja from Tuesday, May 9, 2017.

Announcing the resumption in a press statement in Lagos, Arik Air said flights to Maiduguri would operate thrice weekly on Tuesday, Thursday and Saturday with the possibility of increasing the frequency in the coming weeks. Though the flight would operate via Abuja, passengers from other Arik Air network can conveniently connect to Abuja for their onward journey to Maiduguri. Arik Air suspended operations to Maiduguri in December 2013 due to security reasons. The security situation in the region has since improved, necessitating the resumption of flight operations to Maiduguri International Airport. Speaking on the recommencement of flights to Maiduguri, Arik Air’s Chief Executive Officer, Captain Roy Ilegbodu said: “As a major carrier in Nigeria, we owe it a duty to serve the interest of our esteemed customers who have been yearning for our return to Maiduguri. We once again pledge our commitment to high safety standards, on-time departure and quality customer service as we return to this route”.

Airlines Introduce Internet Onboard

2017 LCCI AWARDS

L-R: Deputy President, Lagos Chamber of Commerce & lndustry, Mr. Knut Ulvmoen; President of the Chamber, Chief (Mrs) Nike Akande; GMD/CEO, CMC Connect, Mr. Yomi Badejo-Okusanya and Chairman, Trade Promotion Board, Mr. Sola Oyetayo during the unveiling of the Manilla for the 2017 Lagos Chmber of Commerce and lndustry Awards in Lagos ...recently Abiodun Ajala

Pilots Warn of Imminent Disaster over Poor Landing Aids Chinedu Eze

Nigerian pilots have warned of looming tragic accidents at the nation’s airports due to poor, obsolete or lack of critical landing aids.

Some of the pilots who spoke to THISDAY complained of incessant failure of air navigational facilities at airports, the undulating nature of many runways and lack of or obsolete instrument landing system (ILS).

They warned that if no urgent measures were taken to improve these facilities, flight operations would be impaired and the situation would be exacerbated as

AVIATION the rains set in.

Members of Senate Committee on Aviation, who visited Lagos for facility inspection late last year had confirmed the pilots’ complaints and noted that the pilots have consistently complained of their inability to communicate in the Nigerian airspace due to epileptic network radio frequency.

Over the years, the pilots had complained of poor communications between them and Air Traffic Controllers to the

extent that at some sections of the airspace there won’t be any communications at all.

THISDAY learnt that besides that Nigeria does not have Category two and three ILS, which could land aircraft in bad weather; most of the existing ILS are either malfunctioning or are epileptic in performance.

With such landing aids, it is difficult to operate flights in the night, said a pilot who spoke to THISDAY, noting that coupled with lack of airfield lighting at most of the airports, “flying in the Nigerian airspace is simply a nightmare and an accident waiting to happen.”

This was corroborated by the controllers who once said in a joint statement that the Instrument Landing System serving the Lagos Runway 18R has been unserviceable for close to three months while the one serving the Second Runway (18L) have been epileptic for more than one month.

“The distance measuring equipment located with the VOR (voice ominidirectional radio range) in Lagos has been out of service for a long time as well. Equipment in many airports including communicaContinued on page 20

Customs Moves to Reform Import, Export Processes Eromosele Abiodun In a bid to ensure trade facilitation at the nation’s ports and all entry points in line with the federal government’s ease of doing business in Nigeria agenda, the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) has taken steps to modify import and export processes.

As part of the reform, the customs command has ameliorated cargo examination stress for importers by reducing announced cargo placement notice for examination given to terminal operators from 24hours to 12 hours.

This means that after customs agrees with all parties on a suitable time for physical examination, terminal operators now require only a 12-hour notice to place the cargo for

MARITIME examination.

Also, the NCS command said it would now schedule and coordinate the mandatory joint examinations and sign-off form to ensure that there is only one point of contact between importers and officials.

This move, top industry players believe, is expected to contribute in eradicating various delays associated with importation and export in Nigeria.

The NCS spokesman, Joseph Attah, in a statement, expressed the service resolve to reform import and export processes in Nigeria.

Attah, who listed some African countries where significant progresses have

been made in the processes and duration for export said various causes of hitches, which he called bottlenecks in the trade process are being removed to achieve seamless transactions.

Customs, THISDAY learnt, have taken the burden of reaching out to agencies from importers as this has been identified as part of the challenges confronting the system. ‘’Before this intervention, the burden was on importers to reach out to all relevant agencies and the Terminal Operator to schedule a suitable time for the joint examination of cargo. We have however decided to take this tedious process off the backs of the importers and coordinate same,’’Attah said.

He said Nigeria ranked 14th out of 15 Economic Community of West African States(

ECOWAS) economies and 182nd out of 190 economies worldwide in the ‘Trade Across Borders’ indicator on the most recent World Bank “Doing Business” Rankings.

“Factors responsible for this low ranking, according to some port users, includes delay in export processes in Nigeria which takes up to two weeks, compared to some other countries like Kenya, it takes four days to complete same process. While Nigeria hitherto required up to 14 documents for imports compared to just five in Rwanda, government reduced the documentation recently to eight,” he said.

Attah said Nigeria will stay on the path of this reduction until it achieves a standard Continued on page 20

Lufthansa and Austrian Airlines would henceforth offer high speed internet on many of their short- and medium-haul flights The airlines said there would be unlimited surfing and streaming in the skies over Europe – from now on. This will be the reality on many Lufthansa and Austrian Airlines aircraft. “This means a seamless Internet connectivity from the long haul flights like from Nigeria that have been equipped with this technology for a while now. Internet access will also be available on Eurowings flights in a few weeks’ time. Up to now, 19 Lufthansa A320 family fleet aircraft, as well 31 Austrian Airlines and 29 Eurowings aircraft have been fitted with the necessary Wifi technology and satellite antennae for this service. Additional ones are in the process of being equipped. This new high speed technology has been successfully tested in the past months on both Lufthansa and Austrian Airlines flights. The internet access works simply via Wifi using the passengers’ own mobile devices. The offers range from messaging services through surfing the net and even to video streaming. Customers can choose from one of three service packages. On Lufthansa flights, they comprise FlyNet Message for three euro FlyNet Surf for seven euro and FlyNet Stream for twelve euro per flight. Austrian Airlines will offer the same services at the same prices under the names myAustrian FlyNet Message, myAustrian FlyNet Surf and myAustrian FlyNet Stream.

Passengers can either pay via credit card or payment services such as PayPal. Soon it will also be possible to make purchases by using Air Miles or via roaming partners.

Skyway to Hold Conference

Skyway Investment Group, a sting rail transport technology company has concluded plans to hold a conference on global transport system in Nigeria. Skyway technology is a provider of innovative transport service recognised worldwide as global solution to commuters.The two-day conference on ‘The new $400 billion string rail transport technology industry’ scheduled to hold on May 6 to 7, 2017, at Best Western Plus Hotel, Allen Avenue, Ikeja, Lagos, is free. According to the organisers, the conference will give Nigerians a unique opportunity into the business of sting rail transportation. “Built and designed in Russia, the Skyway technology will showcase the global transport technology system that will drastically reduce gridlock,” they said.According to Skyway African Representative, Sam Arogundade, “This is going to be a great opportunity to become a co-owner of a global transport technology at highly discounted rates. “The innovative character of skyway technology is due to an original and effective combination of widely known engineering and technological solutions.“Each separate component of skyway transport system is the character of component connection into the system that ensures its unprecedented design and operational features.The types of rails are flexible, semi-rigid and rigid structure.”

“The timely reopening of Abuja airport sent unambiguous message to stakeholders that Nigerian aviation industry is ready to do serious business, “ Managing Director, Nigerian Airspace Management Agency (NAMA)

Captain Fola Akinkuotu

20

T H I S D AY • FRIDAY, MAY 5, 2017

BUSINESSWORLD PILOTS WARN OF IMMINENT DISASTER OVER POOR LANDING AIDS tion facilities suffers that same fate,” the controllers said.

The pilots who spoke to THISDAY were irked that instead of improving, the landing infrastructure is degenerating “because anyone that breaks down never gets repaired and when air crash happens, government will set up a committee and a task force. We cannot continue like this,” said a pilot who spoke to THISDAY on condition of anonymity.

The pilots complained severely about the Murtala Muhammed International Airport Runway 18L, known as the domestic runway and noted that after the facility was rehabilitated few years ago, it still lacked basic amenities that aircraft no longer arrive at the runway from 6:00 pm due to inadequate airfield lighting and other aids; yet, the runway is one of the busiest in the country.

CUSTOMS MOVES TO REFORM IMPORT, EXPORT PROCESSES comparable with its peers on the continent.

He added: ‘’Nigeria’s desire to restore growth through economic diversification, as enunciated in the recently released Economic Growth and Recovery Plan (EGRP) of the Federal Government requires a holistic reformist approach. Reforming procedures is required to stimulate important sectors of the Nigerian economy like agriculture and manufacturing, which contribute 23.1 and 13.3 per cent respectively to its Gross Domestic Product (GDP).’’

Attah said: ‘’As a key stakeholder in the FG’s quest to make businesses work, the NCS joined other MDAs in making commitments towards delivering reforms that would progressively make it easier for businesses in Nigeria to start and thrive. Our commitments at the NCS are focused on “Trade Across Borders,” where a target was set to reduce import and export time by up to 50 percent, and ensure that import procedures adhere to international standards.’’

NEWS

Golden Guinea Brewery Gets $10m Life Line from NEXIM Emmanuel Ugwu in Umuahia The moribund Golden Guinea Brewery Umuahia is set to bounce back after 16 years of inactivity following a lifeline of $10 million it obtained from the Nigeria Export and Import Bank (NEXIM).

The brewery was established in 1962 by the defunct Eastern Region under the premiership of late Dr. Michael Okpara but it became comatose in 2001 following the explosion of its boiler.

The new lease of life was made known by the acting managing director of NEXIM, Bashir Wali during the oversight visit of members of the House of Representatives Committee on Banking and Currency to the brewery.

He said that NEXIM was motivated to extend the loan facility to Golden Guinea because of its profitability due to the high demand for beer as beverage as well as the huge potential of the brewery to create jobs when it resumes production.

Wali said that NEXIM was acting in tandem with government’s policy to revive moribund industries, adding that the positive impact of resuscitating the brewery would be felt not only in the local environment but in the country as a whole.

Aside from NEXIM, Heritage Bank is also deeply involved in financing the revival of Golden Guinea, which incidentally is among the legacies for which Michael Okpara is remembered

as visionary leader.

Chairman of the House Committee on Banking and Currency, Hon Jones Onyeriri explained that he led the committee members to inspect the project which has attracted the funding facility from NEXIM, adding that the investment bank has done the right thing.

“This is the way to go,” he said, adding, “We must get this

place (Golden guinea Brewery) rolling.”

While pledging that the House committee would bring the attention of the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) to the plight of the brewery with respect to sourcing foreign exchange, Onyeriri noted that “it is high time we started encouraging indigenous manufacturers”.

An elated managing director

of the brewery, Ifeanyi Idika, announced that “we are on the threshold of a historic event in the business history of Nigeria”.

He said that the brewery was now ready to start production with “a push of the button” but was being held back due to lack of working capital. Massive rehabilitation work has taken place in the brewery, including installation of a new plant,

capable of producing 48,000 bottles per hour, two brand new boilers with a third one in the pipeline while effective water and power supply have been put in place.

Idika stated that Golden Guinea was coming back with its full stable that include Golden Guinea lager beer, Eagle stout, Bergerdoff , among others.

MEETING OUR STAKEHOLDERS

L-R: Regional Sales Manager West Africa, Charles Iyo; Product Manager, West Africa, Tosin Omodayo; Managing Director for Africa, Seydou Kane and Sales Director for Africa, Malvin Naicker all of Eaton Electrical at the Stakeholder Engagement Session held for Partners in Lagos… recently

‘Inadequate Funding from Contributions, a Major Challenge to Pension Sector’ Ebere Nwoji The Managing Director and Chief Executive officer, Sigma Pensions Ltd, Mr. Dave Uduanu ¬¬has said that inadequate contribution of funding has remained a major challenge to the pension industry amid present global fiscal constraint.

Uduanu, who stated this at a media briefing in his office

in Abuja during a capacity development programme for human resource personnel of his company’s stakeholders, said his company, understands the current reality on ground in the economy but noted that focus on human resources personnel in key organisations this time around was borne out of the desire to explore ways of helping to improve on their

competence in human resources management and productivity as well as on issues bordering on wills and trust.

“The economy is in the downturn, but we’re looking forward positively but many employers are not able to pay employees contribution.

“For those that have and are still in business, many of them have shed weight, which

means if they previously had 100 employees, they now manage with 30 or 40years and you see a lot of request from people that have lost jobs trying to access by virtue of what the law says.

He said going by what the law says, if they are below 50 years, they access 25 per cent to keep body and soul together depending on when they will

get another job.

He said the situation is not the fault of employers, but the economic situation globally that is not peculiar to Nigeria.

According to him, looking at what government had put in place over the years since the new administration came in, there are positive feelings that things will turn around very soon.

Group Business Editor

Chika Amanze-Nwachuku AgriBusiness/Industry Editor

Crusoe Osagie

Comms/e-Business Editor

Emma Okonji

Capital Market Editor

Goddy Egene

Senior Correspondent

Raheem Akingbolu (Advertising) Correspondents

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

Nume Ekeghe (Money Market) Nosa Alekhuogie (Capital Market)

APM Terminals Boss Highlights Trade Facilitation Principles Eromosele Abiodun The Country Manager of APM Terminals Nigeria, Mr. David Skov has highlighted four principles, which he said are capable of facilitating trade in the country.

In a statement, Skov identified transparency, simplification, adherence to international standards and harmonisation of applicable laws and regulations as essential to trade facilitation.

According to him, “Transparency means that countries should ensure that all information, requirements and processes for crossing

borders are clear specific and easily accessible for all involved. Simplification of administrative and commercial formalities, procedures and documents cuts red tape for companies and contributes to a less bureaucratic trade process.

“To achieve trade facilitation, countries should take advantage of the international standards on data, documents and procedures, including those on the use of ICT to exchange information efficiently. The purpose of having international standards and recommendations is to ensure that the procedures of international

trade work in the same general direction, with compatible tools and globally accepted measures,” he said.

Skov said in December 2015, the Maersk Group joined the Global Alliance for Trade Facilitation with the aim of accelerating trade facilitation.

He said the objective of the Global Alliance for Trade is to accelerate trade facilitation reforms by supporting swift and wide implementation of the WTO Trade Facilitation Agreement (TFA).

“When fully implemented, the TFA will represent an important step towards

minimising supply chain barriers and reinvigorating global trade, contributing to private sector development, investments, market integration, education and employment.

The WTO estimates that a full implementation of the TFA can add USD1 trillion to the global GDP annually and 21 million new jobs globally.

“The Maersk Group will use its local expertise to support the implementation of the Global Alliance for Trade Facilitation and stimulate local growth, adding value with our knowledge and insight of global and regional trade

patterns and barriers,” he said.

“A research by the United Nations Conference for Trade and Development shows that African countries have the lowest level of implementation of trade facilitation measures as recorded by the World Trade Organisation’s category ‘A’ notifications under the Trade Facilitation Agreement. This low level implementing of trade facilitation measure in Africa is adjudged responsible for Africa’s low level trade integration, which is hindering the economic potential and growth of Africa.

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T H I S D AY • FRIDAY, MAY 5, 2017

BUSINESSWORLD

NEWS

MainOne Launches Data Centre Project in Sagamu Emma Okonji MainOne has pledged its commitment to boost Information and Communications Technology (ICT) in Ogun State with the launch of a data centre project in Sagamu, Ogun State.

During a recent courtesy visit of the company’s board and management to the Executive Governor of Ogun State, Senator Ibikunle Amosun and his cabinet, the company’s Chairman, Fola Adeola, disclosed that MainOne’s plans to make investments that would boost ICT development in the state.

Affirming the company’s commitment to the digital transformation of Nigeria, Adeola highlighted the untapped investment opportunities in the country, noting that ICT infrastructure investments will support rapid technology proliferation in the state.

“Given its market and reputation as haven for manufacturing and other enterprises, growth potential, investment-friendly disposition and proximity to Lagos State, Ogun State has the potential to become one of the major hubs

of industrialization in Nigeria.

Technology has a major role to play in that evolution. The focus of the state government on infrastructural development is a welcome development, and technology will be critical to achieve the full potential for economic development,” Adeola said.

The governor highlighted the investor-friendly posture of his administration, and its focus to ‘Rebuild the Gateway State’, which is already attracting a significant portion of new Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) into Nigeria to the state.

“We believe that infrastructure development is a vital component for Ogun State’s economic growth and have continued to invest in new road and rail infrastructure within the state, which is already transforming the ease of doing business.

In addition, Ogun State has a network of 21 tertiary institutions, which guarantees employers a capable indigenous workforce”, the governor said. Corroborating these statements, the Chief Executive Officer of MainOne, Funke Opeke, said:“As a pioneer-

ing broadband company in Nigeria, we are excited to partner with Ogun State by creating in Sagamua technology hub, capable of attracting local and international technology companies to do business in the state. This is similar to what we have achieved in Lagos, where we transformed the Yaba area into Nigeria’s undisputed ‘Silicon Valley’ that is now attracting international attention and investments.”

“Yaba is home to a significant number of Nigeria’s tech hubs and start up community and has created thousands of direct jobs and tens of thousands of indirect jobs, by stimulation of the ISP, eCommerce and ICT sectors,” Opeke said.

MainOne hopes to start building its Data Center in Sagamu, Ogun State later this year. The facility which is based in the Flowergate Industrial Park is designed to provide services to the burgeoning base of industry in the state and serve as a backup for businesses in Lagos who will enjoy easy access through the Lagos-Ibadan expressway, once repairs are complete.

Bala-Usman: Hard Work Required to Attain Global Best Practices Eromosele Abiodun The Managing Director of the Nigerian Ports Authority (NPA), Hadiza Bala Usman has charged the executive and management teams of the organisations in the nation’s ports to work harder in order to make the ports competitive, efficient, effective and up-to-date in global best practices.

Speaking at a management retreat organised by Messrs Boston Consulting Group (BCG) from the United State of

America (USA), she called on the heads of such organisations to be technologically advanced and modern in every sense of the word.

Usman added that on assumption of duty, she took it upon herself the challenges of pursuing reform measures aimed at instituting best practices that would ensure ease of doing business in our operating and administrative processes.

Usman added that she has implicit confidence in the caliber of workforce in NPA

which are highly educated, trained and exposed in a well-established organisational structure.

The NPA boss added that the time has come for NPA to do things differently and in accordance with global accepted standard if we are serious about being globally competitive.

The one day strategy Management retreat had in attendance, all Executive Directors, General Managers and a cross section of high level Managers of the NPA.

WCF Forum Tackles Fake News, Social Media Challenges Communication Managers across the world have been urged to take social media seriously as this will help monitor their reputation.

This was stated at the 2017 World Communications Forum (WCF), by an International Communicator, Speaker and Development Expert, Mr. Micheal Bociurkiw.

According to him, “Reputation is key. CEOs of companies, who refuse to spend on social media/social media strategy/ crisis communications, do so at their own peril. Monitoring is required 24/7. You or your company’s reputation is everything because it takes years to build a trusted brand but minutes/seconds to bring it down. Don’t allow a gap in communications to allow others to do the speaking for you.”

The challenge of fake news

was also put on the communications front burner. He reiterated that in the current communications environment clients expect their consultants to be decision-makers. However, social media now requires quick decisions in the middle of the night, thus encouraging communications practitioners and chief executive officers to embrace social media as much as they can. According to him, “Information is fast food, because today people consume 87 per cent more information than 30 years ago.

In the past four months the communications environment has changed completely, now communications wags the tail of diplomacy.”

He admitted that fake news would endanger democracy and could easily become hate speech, and that large new media companies such as

FaceBook have been slow to introduce policies/tools to combat it. He highlighted this as one of the challenges of the social media, inspite of its numerous advantages, and hopes there will be a solution to this, as he upholds the use of social media in the 21st century. He advised communications practitioners to have a strong working relationships with producers/journalists as this will help get out negative stories from the media in event of any crisis.

Launched in year 2011, the Communications for Future Awards has 23 nomination categories for the awards under three divisions, which are the Personal, Corporate, and Start ups.

Nominees for the Awards are usually received from thirty countries across five continents.

RISK MANAGEMENT WATCH Robert Mbonu

ERM and Corporate Governance

T

his article is to address some of the pressing enquiries received from readers.

Question. Is there a distinction between risk management and enterprise risk management? The answer is “yes”. The both point in the same direction, but take on a different interpretation when the word “enterprise” is introduced. Refer to my earlier article – why risk management – (https:// www.thisdaylive.com/ index.php/2016/11/28/why-risk-management/) A classic definition of risk is the “effect of uncertainty on objectives”. An objective, here used as a noun, means a thing aimed at or sought, a goal, intention, purpose or target. Objectives can be personal goals, or can have commercial or social motivations such as business objectives, and government objectives.

Risk management for organisations is often used interchangeably with enterprise risk management (ERM). Risk management, as its name implies means the management and control of risks. This concept is practiced in most organisations, albeit in stand-alone circumstances, commonly referred to as silos. By introducing the word “enterprise”, which is the focus of my writings, risk management takes on a more strategic meaning and purpose, whereby we move away from the separate management of individual risks, to a broader and more integrated and structured method. This is the fundamental idea behind the ERM approach.

ERM in any organisation (business or government: ministries, departments and agencies) is a system of dealing with all the risks faced, across all the operations, departments and units in a structured and holistic manner. It is concerned with the management of the risks that can impact the objectives, or key dependencies. ERM is delivered within a framework which is part of the overall risk governance arrangements. This framework, is the architecture, strategy and protocols, which support the risk management process. The risk architecture defines how information on risk is communicated. The risk strategy defines the overall objectives, and the risk protocols are the systems, standards and procedures put in place. An ERM specialist is imbued with the skills to design frameworks, implement and advise no matter the industry and/or sector.

ERM is like a holy grail. Many executives say they do it, and yet they can’t agree on what it is. The reality is companies think they are implementing ERM, but they really aren’t. What obtains in practice often demonstrates a very limiting view of ERM, from maintaining a list of risks (“enterprise list management”) to summarizing risk responses, leaving many corporate leaders underwhelmed with its value contribution.

The overwhelming evidence out there is a positive relationship between ERM and company performance. There is also evidence that improved corporate governance leads to better ERM. One can conclude that ERM, properly designed and implemented, has significant effect on performance and profitability. In its immature state, ERM adds limited value because it often leaves management with a list of risks and very little insight as to what to do next. In its various forms, ERM may increase risk awareness with management, the board of directors and others, but it will not be effective in driving decisions because it typically isn’t integrated with the enterprise’s decision-making processes.

As a result, it is often an afterthought to strategy and appendage to performance management.

Different standards have their interpretation of ERM. The Committee of Sponsoring Organizations standard (COSO) points out that ERM, among other things:

• Is an ongoing process • Is applied across the enterprise • Is designed to identify potential events that could affect the entity, and to manage risk within its risk appetite.

• Provides reasonable assurance.

Another standard, ISO 31000, states that ERM should be an integral part of organizational processes as well as a part of decision making.

While these and other standards provide valuable insight in defining ERM, I prefer a version of ERM summed up as follows: “ERM is the discipline, culture and control structure an organization has in place to continuously improve its risk management capabilities in a changing business environment”.

Why is ERM important? Events over recent years have pointed to five realities that every CEO and board face: 1. The time may come – sooner than we may expect – when the fundamentals of the business are about to change. Risk management at enterprise level, is about securing “early mover” positioning in the marketplace.

2. It is not what we know that matters; it is what we don’t know that makes the difference.

3. Most businesses are boundary-less.

4. Sooner or later, there will be a crisis that will test your company. Even the most effective risk management cannot prevent this exposure.

5. Management and directors are struggling with delineating between risk management and risk oversight. ERM and corporate governance are therefore intricately interwoven, in the sense that one requires the other to work. The failure of companies is mostly attributed to a failure of managing their risks.

There has been much more interest in corporate governance across the globe due to high-profile corporate scandals. In Nigeria, the CBN issued in 2006 a mandatory corporate governance code for Nigerian Banks which addressed the following risk management requirements; • There should be, as a minimum, the following board committees – Risk Management Committee, Audit Committee, and the Credit Committee.

• Banks should put in place a risk management framework including a risk management unit that should be headed by a Senior Executive.

The insurance and pension regulators soon followed suit with corporate governance codes for their respective Industries. The Code of Governance for Public Companies was issued in 2008. The current code has the following requirements regarding the Risk Management Committee • The Board may establish a Risk Management Committee to assist it in its oversight of the risk profile, risk management framework and the risk-reward strategy determined by the Board.

In summary, the discipline of ERM has become established, and is here to stay. It has proven to be able to demonstrate significant and measurable financial benefits, in the form of increased profit in private sector organisations and can produce enhanced efficiency and/or value for money delivery of services in the public sector.

•Mbonu, FERP, CIRM(UK), HCIB, MsRM (Stern), studied Engineering, is an experienced Banker and Enterprise Risk Management professional.

Earned a post graduate degree in Risk Management from New York University Stern School of Business, and is a member of the Institute of Risk Management -UK. Can be reached on 09092092046 (SMS Only); email: rm4riskmgt@ gmail.com

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Air Peace Gets IOSA Certificate Chinedu Eze A domestic carrier, Air Peace has been granted the International Air Transport Association (IATA) Operational Safety Audit (IOSA) certification.

The certification indicates that the airline has met all safety standards as recommended by IATA. With the certification; Air Peace can now apply to become a member of the international organisation. Also, as IOSA certified airline, it would be easy for Air Peace to code-share with any airline from any part of the world that has also met the international safety standard.

Speaking before the presentation of the certificate, IATA Area Manager for West Africa, Dr. Samson Fatokun commended Air Peace for its ability to successfully go through the stringent safety hurdles.

Fatokun, who presented the IOSA certificate to the airline

said that after the ministerial meeting of all African countries in 2012, it was agreed that by the end of 2017 all African airlines would be on IOSA registry in order to ensure improved safety in the continent. That agreement is known as the Abuja Declaration.

“Today, we are pleased to present the IOSA certificate to Air Peace, meaning that they have met the safety standards of other airlines in advanced countries. I congratulate the organisation”, Fatokun said.

Qualifying for IOSA certification is a very good and big achievement; it takes a very rigorous system to actualise it.

We are encouraging you to stay there. Getting it is one thing and staying there is another thing. It is valid for two years; make sure you stay up there”, he remarked. In his response, the Chairman of Air Peace, Chief Allen Onyema thanked the IATA

representatives and noted that this is the first time an airline could achieve such feat within a period of two and half years.

“I am very proud for what God has done. I thank the passengers whose patronage made this possible. We are happy and I am short of words. We have got what many airlines in Nigeria and Africa could not get. It shows that God is with us. Government should begin to believe that we will get it right in Nigeria. With Air Peace, Nigeria will get it right this time. The year of airline falling apart after 10 years has passed. I run Air Peace like a passenger with phobia for flying. I want it to be so safe and we want top notch pilots, engineers and workers. We try to get everything right.”

Onyema said the airline is already making consultations with some foreign airlines for code-share arrangements.

Experts Warn against Sale of Aero, Arik to Foreign Airlines Aviation industry experts have cautioned against alleged plan by the federal government through Asset Management Corporation of Nigeria (AMCON) to sell Aero Contractors and Arik Air to foreign airlines.

Informed sources at the Ministry of Transportation had hinted that the government approached Ethiopia Airlines and Turkish Airlines to buy Arik but they declined. Also last week the Minister of Finance, Mrs. Kemi Adeosun confirmed that investors were making enquiries about acquiring the two airlines.

But industry experts have expressed worries about the news of the plan takeover of these airlines by foreign concerns, querying if how this would benefit Nigeria and make the airlines operate profitable.

They argued that if foreign airlines acquire and absorb these airlines, Nigeria would lose because the workers would

be relieved of their jobs and the airlines may even seize to exist as Nigerian operators.

Secretary of Aviation Round Table (ART), Group Captain John Ojikutu has criticised the move, saying that the decision to sell the airlines to European carriers is ill-advised.

“The news going round is that there are some moves by AMCON to liquidate Arik airline and sell it to the Ethiopian airline. Sure AMCON has no good knowledge on how many things work in aviation, but must be getting some blind advice from some Nigerian interested parties. I am not against the selling of Arik or Aero to technical investors, what I, like any other Nigerian, should fight for is selling a reasonable percentage of the airlines assets to the public. Secondly, those who are contemplating the sales or cooperation with Ethiopian

airline should go into history of such cooperation in the past between Nigeria Airways and KLM or the Nigeria Airways and South African Airways in the 90s and the one for establishing Virgin Nigeria between the government and Virgin Atlantic.

“In the event that the liquidation and sale of these airlines to Ethiopia Airlines or European carriers is true, what would be the statutes of the airline if Nigerians are not participants? Would Ethiopian Airlines and Asky still retain their multiple destinations to all the five Nigerian airports if the airline is designated as the national carrier or flag carrier? We must find favourable answers to these questions or else AMCON and its advisers would blindfully sell our birth rights to a commercial competitor in the industry,” Ojikutu said.

Africa Leads as Global Air Freight Demand Increases Africa is leading in the global air freight demand, as the region has recorded a boost in cargo movement.

The International Air Transport Association (IATA) released March 2017 demand growth results for global air freight markets showing a 14 percent expansion measured in freight tonne kilometers (FTKs) compared with the same period last year. This was the fastest pace of growth recorded since October 2010. Freight capacity, measured in available freight tonne kilometers (AFTKs), grew by 4.2 percent year-on-year in March 2017.

According to IATA, Africa posted the largest year-on-year increase in demand of all regions in March 2017 with freight volumes growing 33.5 percent.

The body said that capacity increased by 6.3 percent over

the same time and demand has been boosted by very strong growth on the trade lanes to and from Asia following an increase in direct services between the continents, adding that the increase in demand has helped the region’s load factor rise by six percentage points compared to March 2016.

March performance contributed to very strong first quarter (Q1) growth in freight volumes.

After adjusting for the impact of the leap year in 2016, freight demand in Q1 2017 increased by nearly 11 percent. Capacity increased by 3.7 percent over the same period (leap year adjusted).

The strengthening of air freight demand in March is consistent with an uptick in world trade and a six-year high in new export orders.

An increase in the shipment

of silicon materials typically used in high-value consumer electronics shipped by air, is also likely underpinning a portion of the strong performance.

“March capped a robust first quarter with the strongest year-on-year air freight growth in six-and-a-half years.

Optimism is returning to the industry as the business stabilises after many years in the doldrums. There is, however, still much lost ground to recover while facing the dual headwinds of rising fuel and labor costs. It remains critical to use the improvement in the industry’s fortunes as an opportunity to enhance the value offering by implementing modern customer-centric initiatives that streamline processes and reduce costs,” said IATA’s Director General and CEO, Alexandre de Juniac.

AIR WATCH FG’s Penchant for Foreign Airlines

A

viation industry experts posit that despite the fact that Nigeria has a renowned aviation college established in 1964, Nigeria is nowhere, near Kenya, Ethiopia and South Africa in terms of the number of citizens employed in the aviation sector both locally and abroad.

Ethiopia may lead the pack as the country with the highestnumberofaviationprofessionalsemployed overseasandtheseexpertsnotethatthisisbecause thecountryhascomprehensivetrainingprogramme andaccompanyingfacilitiesforaviationdevelopment, despite the fact that it has less than half of Nigeria’s population and possibly about 30 per cent of the country’s resources.

Ironically, Ethiopia’s first aviation training school was established at the same time Nigeria’s was established by the same international organisation, theUnitedNations.ButthatofEthiopiaexperienced exponentialgrowthasitexpandedandbecamearguably the best aviation training institution in Africa.

Industry observers attribute it to commitment, patriotism and altruistic disposition of the leaders ofEthiopiawhosawaviationasanicheforeconomic development.The success of aviation was built on the country’s national carrier, Ethiopia Airlines.

Today, Nigeria’s federal government woos Ethiopia Airlines like a coy, beautiful princess; celebrating an airlineitsgovernmenttooktimetopreparetoconquer Africa.When the federal government moved Abuja airport to Kaduna following the repair the former’s runway, it was Ethiopia Airline that first landed at the airport a day before it was opened for Abuja designated flights.Also,whentherepairoftheAbuja airportrunwaywascompleted,itwasEthiopiaAirlines thatlandedattheairportadaybeforeitwasreopened.

ThequestionindustryobserversandotherNigerians wereasking,doesitmeanthatthegovernmentcannot useanyindigenouscarriertopromotetherelocation ofoperationstoKadunaand return to Abuja airport.

Obviously Nigeria has greater opportunities and moreresourcesthan Ethiopia to establish the most viable and profitable airlines in the continent.

But a source at the Ministry of Transportation, alleged that top officials of government “don’t really care for Nigeria; they care for their pockets; therefore, it will be difficult for government officials, from the Ministers to those in charge of the critical decisions and implementation of policies in aviation to show the kind of commitment and passion needed for Nigeria to grow the aviation industry.”

Over the years, the federal government and its officials have shown that they have more confidence in foreign carriers and they encourage them to operate in Nigeria, give them more frequencies when they demand them, give them landing rights to the airports of their choice and even beg some of them to come to Nigeria. Many of such top officials, including Ministers would excuse their actions, saying that Nigeria does not have capacity; that the localairlinesdonothavethe wherewithaltooperateinternationalroutes.Butthe domesticoperatorswouldarguethatthatthemajor reason why domestic airlines are not developing is because of government’s disposition towards

indigenous operators in its policies and its attention to the development of airport facilities.

Inarecentpressconference,theChairmanofAirPeace, Chief Allen Onyema noted that many foreign airlines that operate in Nigeria do not allow Nigerian airlines to operate to their own countries and they do this by refusing to give Nigerian airlines landing rights.These are what Nigerian government easily gives to these foreignairlines.HenotedthatNigerianairlineswillnever grow if there is no conscious effort by government to protect the airlines through its policies.

One example will suffice. Few years ago Arik Air wanted to operate to Brazil, which used to be a very viable route when Varig, the Brazilian carrier was operating to Nigeria. Now more Nigerians and more Brazilians have both business and cultural ties but no Nigerian airline or Brazil airline operate directly to both countries. When Arik made a request to Brazil, as the law of reciprocity goes, a Brazilian airline has to operatetoNigeriaandGolwastocometoNigeria.But Gol largely operates domestic destinations. In fact, as at that time, Gol was operating only one international destination and it is a big airline in Brazil. Arik made requestforlandingrightsinBazil.Brazilianauthorities satonit.GolmaderequesttooperatetoNigeriatothe country’s Ministry of Aviation then.The request was immediately granted and frequencies were given to Gol. But Brazil sat on the request of Arik till today. Gol despite all the approval never operated to Nigeria.

An operator toldTHISDAY on Wednesday that when a country opens all its doors to foreign airlines it loses forex through capital flight. He noted that no country reallyallowsopenskies;everycountryprotectsitsown indigenous carriers and in the negotiation of Bilateral AirServiceAgreement(BASA),mostcountriesgowith their local airlines.

“Werecentlymadearequesttooperatetoonecountry and the authorities told us to meet their own airlines that are already operating into Nigeria and seek their approval,whichwedid.Wewerenotsurprisedbecause that is the way it is done. It is only Nigeria that does not protect its own airlines. Nigeria’s aviation industry has the potential to create over a million direct and indirect jobs, but we have to grow our airlines into strong, viable carriers to achieve this,” the operator said.

Industry experts and the secretary of Aviation Round Table (ART), Group Captain John Ojikutu (retd) has frowned at the way government has been encouraging the dominance of foreign airlines in Nigeria. He said, “While I commend the government for allocating six or seven international routes to Air Peace, without including Addis Ababa, there must be something very uncommon in the way and manner we allocate multiple destinations to foreign airlines in this country to the disadvantage of our domestic airlines. Sure, there must be some financialinducementfromtheairlinestosomepersons.

Ethiopian Airlines is making about 20 weekly flights to about five of our airports; and I ask, why can’t the NigerianairlinesparticipateorcompetewithEthiopian Airline on this route?”

If government really wants to develop the aviation industry,itmustdoeverythingpossibletogrowstrong, viabledomesticairlinesandenunciatepoliciesthatwill encourage airlines to train aviation personnel along with other agencies.

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Sustainable Use of Africa’s Oceans and Seas Eromosele Abiodun examines the outcome of the Association of African Maritime Administrations conference held in Abuja and posited that sustainable use of oceans and seas will boost the economy of Africa and pull millions out of poverty In recent years, before the global financial crisis, international trade had increased exponentially.

While African countries also benefited from this increase, their share in world trade had remained low, and accounted for only about three per cent of world exports. This poor trade performance was partly due to trade protection outside Africa against African products, but it also stemmed from constraints that inhibited trade within Africa. With the expectation of a generally moderate recovery of the global economy and of world trade, it is even more important than before to foster African countries’ trade with economies both outside and inside Africa. This is so because Africa remains one of the poorest continents in the world and its gross domestic products remain one of the lowest.

There seems to be no way out.

A recent report by the African Development Bank (AFDB) revealed that a significant decline in Africa’s poverty will require the continent’s GDP to grow at an overall average of 7 per cent.

In order to achieve this goal, experts believe it is of paramount importance that Africa’s international trade continues and strengthens its current development. To do this, analysts contended that Africa must make effective use of its oceans and seas. Oceans, seas and coastal areas form an integrated and essential component of the Earth’s ecosystem are critical to sustainable development. They cover more than two-thirds of the earth’s surface and contain 97 per cent of the planet’s water. Oceans contribute to poverty eradication by creating sustainable livelihoods and decent work. Over three billion people depend on marine and coastal resources for their livelihoods. In addition, oceans are crucial for global food security and human health. They are also the primary regulator of the global climate, an important sink for greenhouse gases and they provide humans water and the oxygen they breathe. Finally, oceans host huge reservoirs of biodiversity.

In order for oceans, seas and marine resources to successfully contribute to human well-being, ecosystem integrity, with properly functioning biogeochemical and physical processes, is required. This does not require unperturbed systems, but systems that have not suffered serious or irreversible harm. Ecosystem integrity allows for the provision of so-called supporting ecosystem services which, in turn, are the bases of important regulating, provisioning and cultural ecosystem services that are of crucial importance for humans. Whereas the benefits provided by oceans, seas and marine resources are important to all people, the poor, indigenous peoples, and vulnerable groups with a high dependency on natural resources and ecosystem services may have their well-being especially tied to these benefits. The link between oceans, seas and marine resources and human well-being is not one-sided. While an increase in human well-being is frequently generated at the cost of ecosystem integrity, it can also potentially reduce the negative anthropocentric impacts on the marine environment, for example due to a more sustainable use of resources, changes in production and consumption patterns and improved management and control of human activities. In order for this to happen, good governance and an enabling environment are however required.

AAMA Takes Charge To this end, 33 African maritime administrators, under the auspices of the Association of African Maritime Administrations (AAMA) gathered in Nigeria’s capital Abuja recently to chart a new course on how to make effective use of Africa’s seas and oceans.

The theme of the conference was: “Sustainable Use of Africa’s Oceans and Seas.”

The representatives of the following member administrations attended the conference: Mauritania, South Sudan, Cameroon, Ethiopia, Mozambique, Sao Tome & Principe, Senegal, Sierra Leone, Seychelles, Somalia, South Africa, United Republic of Tanzania, Togo, Uganda,

L-R: A representative of Senate President, Senator lbn N’Allah; Speaker House of Representatives, Hon. Yakubu Dogara; Vice President, Prof. Yemi Osinbajo and Minister of Transportation, Rotimi Chibuike Amaechi at the 3rd Association of African Maritime Administrations (AAMA) Annual Conference in Abuja … recently Abiodun Ajala

Ghana, Cote D’Ivoire, Comoros, Cape Verde, Djibouti, Benin, DR Congo, Egypt, Equatorial Guinea, Guinea Bissau, Liberia, Kenya, Guinea, Libya and Nigeria.

To achieve inclusive participation in global trade, the maritime administrators in attendance agreed that African countries must have the political will to facilitate trade through: transparency, simplicity of trade documentation and procedures, elimination or reduction of red-tapes (bureaucracy) and adequacy of and implementation of applicable laws.

They also agreed to devote concerted effort and planning to pursue the enhancement of wealth creation, and regional and international trade performance through maritime-centric capacity and capability building.

They pledged to the minimisation of environmental damage and expedited recovery from catastrophic events, prevention of hostile and criminal acts at sea, and coordination/ harmonisation of the prosecution of offenders.

They also agreed to ensure population protection, including assets and critical infrastructure from maritime pollution and prevention of dumping of toxic and nuclear

Whereas the benefits provided by oceans, seas and marine resources are important to all people, the poor, indigenous peoples, and vulnerable groups with a high dependency on natural resources and ecosystem services may have their well-being especially tied to these benefits

waste, improvement of Integrated Coastal Zone/ Area Management in Africa and promotion of ratification, domestication and implementation of international instruments.

To address the enormous challenges of building human capacities in the maritime sector especially regarding training and employment of cadets, maritime administrations were advised to develop an integrated human resources strategy for the maritime sector to support the provision of skills taking into account gender balance in the entire maritime value chain which includes shipping and logistics, offshore activities, fishing, tourism and recreation, and safety and security (AIMS 2050).

Fiscal Incentives The administrators urged African government to provide fiscal incentives to attract vessels to their respective ship registry.

According to them, “Governments should adopt the Port State Measures Agreement and to consider taking immediate actions to implement and enforce the measures. Strengthen the legal and governance framework for monitoring and control of fishing activities on a national and regional basis. Governments must develop measures in addition to FAO guidelines to protect our exclusive economic zone and territorial waters from illegal, unlawful unreported fishing by foreign fishing trawlers.

“Members are encouraged to re-enforce regional cooperation and coordination, enhance information sharing and regulatory governance among members to combat the menace of piracy and other maritime crimes while maintaining a balance between security and the facilitation of global trade. AAMA is urged to identify and carry out capacity building exercises for member nations according to their needs.”

The maritime administrators pledged to facilitate the ratification and adoption of the African Maritime Transport Charter and the 2017 Lome Charter.

Recognising the gender policies in the Maputo Protocol, Agenda 2063 and the SDGs etc, the administrators agreed to facilitate the adoption

by Maritime Administrations of measures that will incorporate gender mainstreaming in the short, medium and long term strategy of each

administration.

To foster economic co-operation between AAMA members, they agreed to develop and adopt Near-Coastal Trading, Certification and Competency Code for mutual recognition of certificates that will reduce/eliminate contentions

by Port State Control Inspectors.

IMO Council Seat In his opening address, President Muhammadu Buhari vowed to ensure that Nigeria achieves its goal of attaining the Category C seat in the Council of the International Maritime Organisation (IMO).

To this end, he stated that Nigeria will promote and support effective African participation in the council of the IMO stressing, however, that this can only yield the desired results when African states speak with one voice at the global level for the enduring interest of Africa.

He identified the need for African countries to join efforts together to preserve the Africanrich maritime resources in order to protect sea foods, achieve food security and earn foreign exchange through export of sea foods.

Buhari, who was represented by Vice President, Yemi Osinbajo said Nigeria has taken steps to tackle some of the challenges peculiar to it while still requiring regional and sub-regional collaboration.

According to him, “We have stepped up engagement to address the disagreement, misunderstanding and contentious issues in the Niger Delta, which is a part of the Gulf of guinea. We recently approved the maritime security architecture and infrastructure to be jointly coordinated by the Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency (NIMASA), the Ministry of Transport and the National Security Adviser’s Office.

“We are giving required support to the Nigerian Navy and other security agencies with others within our sub region so that we can work effectively to police our water ways for trade to flourish. This arrangement will also contribute to eliminate piracy and sea robbery within our maritime domain. \the results are encouraging and piracy has dropped in the last six months.

In the same vein, we are making substantial investment to improve human capacity by

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SUSTAINABLE USE OF AFRICA’S OCEANS AND SEAS taking advantage of international trade and internship opportunities in the shipping and maritime industry.”

He added: “We have also paid significant attention to making it easier to do business and one of our immediate priorities in this regard, is the entry and exit of goods especially in our sea ports. The measures that we are putting in place are designed to improve the efficiency of our ports and to enable quick turnaround time of vessels. Technology is also been deployed to make our port operations more transparent and effective in support of economic growth.

NIMASA, which is the regulatory agency of shipping and maritime activities in Nigeria is been reformed so that it can play its expected role as a facilitator of economic prosperity.

“To this end, we need a coherent and collaborative response to the many challenges facing the continent’s maritime sector. This will require cooperation amongst our states, agencies and other players like the private sector. It will also entail focusing on human capacity development including strengthening the coast guard function to police our water ways. It means that governance issues and appropriate legislative measures must be put on the front burner alongside timely exchange of information. In addition, issues of maritime security and safety must continue to receive the needed attention as we strive to make Africa a strong player in the international maritime community.

In his speech, the Minister of Transportation, Rotimi Amaechi stated that Nigeria, through the hosting of the event, wishes to reinstate its commitment to continually contribute to the growth of the maritime sector on the continent of Africa and globally.

“The conference is not merely to praise the maritime sector of Africa but to tackle the maritime problems being encountered in the continent. It is regrettable that despite Africa’s enormous maritime endowment, we remain susceptible to raft of challenges.

“These include insignificant share of cargo, low tonnage, piracy, sea robbery, undeclared and unregulated fishing, and environmental degradation; worse still there is no African flagged vessels taking cargoes and our waterways still wallow in servitude. The African human capacity is greatly underdeveloped, leaving us to rely on foreigners to drive our industry. There is also near total absence of trained coast-guard to monitor our maritime domain, ” On his part, the Director General of the NIMASA, Dr. Dakuku Adol Peterside explained that, “hosting AAMA two years after African leaders through the African Union (AU) subscribed to seven keys aspiration encapsulated in the agenda 2063 at Addis Ababa, Ethiopia in January 2015 and three years after the adoption of Africa Integrated Maritime Strategy (AIMS) 2050 concedes on Nigeria a special status.

“Only recently, to further reinforce the critical role maritime can play in the development of Africa, the AU special summit of Heads of Government on maritime security, safety and development in Lome, Togo, 15th October 2016 aligned with us. They adopted a Charter on Maritime Security, Safety and Development aimed at making Africa’s maritime space the key driver of the continents socio-economic development. This document was endorsed by 43 out of 54 African nations.”

Dumping of Nuclear, Toxic Waste In a concerted effort to ensure that African Oceans are not overexploited and also not seen as a dumping ground for dangerous materials, participating countries at the just concluded Conference of the association of Heads of African maritime administrations agreed on the need for Population, assets and critical infrastructure protection from maritime pollution by prevention of dumping of toxic and nuclear wastes.

The body of all administrators of maritime regulatory bodies came up with the position as one of the major ways to safeguard the future of maritime wealth in the continent alongside other pertinent positions.

Members of the Association consequently agreed to devote concerted efforts and planning to pursue the enhancement of wealth creation and regional and international trade performance through maritime-centric capacity and capability building while ensuring the minimization of

Association while the Association agreed to hold the 2018 Conference in Egypt. Sychelles and Namibia are jostling for the 2019 hosting rights.

AAMA also formally approved the Organisation of African Maritime Awards starting from Egypt 2018 to recognize and honor outstanding Africans in the sector.

The International Maritime Organization, IMO-scecretary General, Kitack Lim, who was represented by the head, Africa (Anglophone) Section Technical Cooperation Division of the IMO, Mr. William Azuh, observed that African continent needs to increase its level of vessel tonnage as well as develop the much needed maritime infrastructure, especially in terms of ship building and equipment to be able to effectively participate in the global shipping trade to the benefits of its citizenry.

However, he charged leadership of the association and indeed member states of the association to begin to develop the framework that would enable them take full advantage of the vast maritime potential embedded in the continent.

Peterside

environmental damage and expedited recovery from catastrophic events.

These, they observed, should be taken into cognisance as well as prevention of hostile and criminal acts at sea, by coordination/ harmonisation of the prosecution of offenders and improvement of Integrated Coastal Zone/ Area Management in Africa, if the continent is to grow maritime trade.

Peterside, who takes over from Mr. Sobantu Tilayi, the acting Chief Executive Officer of South African Maritime and Safety Agency (SAMSA), who has been the acting Chair of the association since 2013 stated that task of leading the African Maritime Administrators is enormous but there is the need to collaborate with one another to ensure that the African Oceans and seas are not over exploited to the detriment of the continent.

Part of the Resolutions made at the conference enjoined all African countries to participate in the day set aside by the AU as the African Day of Oceans and Seas.

“The African Union Commission has set aside 25th July of every year as Africa’s Day of the Seas and Oceans. Maritime Administrations are encouraged to institutionalize this day to raise awareness amongst stakeholders of the strategic importance of maritime governance for sustainable development; highlight the important role Africa

Governments should adopt the Port State Measures Agreement and to consider taking immediate actions to implement and enforce the measures.

Strengthen the legal and governance framework for monitoring and control of fishing activities on a national and regional basis

needs to play at international maritime forum; raise awareness on Africa’s “Blue Economy” and enhance the focus on maritime safety, security, maritime environment protection and human element”, the communique read.

Building Human Capacities In noting that capacity building had been a major challenge in the African Maritime sector, member nations agreed to address the enormous challenges of building human capacities in the maritime sector especially regarding training and employment of cadets by urging maritime Administrators to develop an integrated human resources strategy for the maritime sector to support the provision of skills taking into account gender balance in the entire maritime value chain which includes shipping and logistics, offshore activities, fishing, tourism and recreation, and safety and security (AIMS 2050).

Meanwhile, outgoing Chairman, Tilayi at the closing of the three day event, described Peterside as committed and dedicated technocrat that will, no doubt, take maritime administration to a higher level. He pledged his support for the NIMASA DG and urged other African Nations to do so likewise in order to advance the African Maritime Industry.

In a related development Buhari, who had also congratulated Peterside on his election as the chairman of AAMA, stated that the that the Federal Government of Nigeria on its own part has paid significant attention to making the Nigerian maritime business environment a much friendlier one, adding that the immediate priority in this regard is the entry and exit of goods especially in Nigerian seaports to increase efficiency of Nigerian Ports and enable quick turnaround time of vessels.

According to him, the Federal Government has given required support to the Navy so that they can work with others within our sub region to effectively police our waters for trade. This arrangement will also contribute to resolving and eliminating piracy as well as sea robbery in our maritime domain.

The President also used the opportunity to unveil the new NIMASA brand to usher in a new direction for the African Maritime Sector.

Nigeria was elected Chairman of AAMA with Eleven (11) members’ executive committee comprising of representatives of Central Africa (Cameroun & Cape Verde), West Africa (Cote D’Ivoire & Ghana), East Africa (Tanzania & Comoros), Southern Africa (Mozambique and South Africa), North Africa (Egypt & Sudan) and Uganda representing Land-locked countries.

South Africa also retained Secretariat of the

Exploiting Resources In his speech, Speaker of the House of Representatives, Yakubu Dogara stated that developed countries have done a better job of exploiting these resources.

“We in Africa need to do much more to use these God given resources to feed our people, fight poverty and develop efficient ports and effectively administer the waters of the Seas.

We can create high paying jobs for our teeming youths, develop an efficient transportation system, exploit efficiently the oil and gas resources and other minerals contained in the deep seas and oceans of Africa. Nigeria is potentially a major maritime power considering the depth and breadth of our Exclusive Economic Zone and Territorial waters, and can do even more to efficiently and effectively make sustainable use of the Oceans and Seas, “he said.

While noting that fishing is one of the major economic activities of most maritime communities all over Africa, he stressed that sustainable development of the local fisheries sector has the capacity to improve food security and lift people out of poverty and hunger.

He added, “Fisheries and aquaculture provide jobs for millions of people including our women and youths. However, statistics has it that Illegal Unreported and Unregulated (IUU) fishing, leads to a loss of over 1.3 billion dollars in West Africa alone, yearly. We must tighten the legal and regulatory framework to stop these losses. We must intensify efforts to promote intra- African trade in fisheries as statistics also show that Pan-African fish trade is worth about 20 billion euros. This will help to sustain African economies in the long term.”

As a maritime nation, he said Nigeria has a responsibility together with other nations and international organisations, like the IMO, to make our waters safe and secure. It is as a result that the Legislature in Nigeria has been very active in maritime related legislations over the years.

“In 2007, the National Assembly of Nigeria, created the Nigeria Maritime Administration and Safety Agency (NIMASA) from the old National Maritime Authority (NMA) and amended the 1962 Merchant Shipping Act and empowered NIMASA to administer the Act. Furthermore, the National Assembly has domesticated 12 very important Maritime Safety and Security Conventions of the IMO which are necessary for safeguarding security and safety in our region.

“It has also domesticated the International Ships and Port Facility Security (ISPS) Code, which is a very important IMO Convention instrument for safety and security at Nigerian ports as part of its Ports State duties. The Nigerian parliament has also domesticated eight important Conventions and Protocols on marine environment geared towards a clean, safe and secure marine environment.”

He added: “We as a parliament have been at the forefront of legislation on maritime issues in the past and are currently, actively involved in processing legislations in the maritime sector. The House of Representatives of Nigeria only last week passed the National Transport Commission Bill which it is hoped would have a huge impact on the maritime sector especially with respect to economic regulation of activities of operators and agencies in our maritime sector.”

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'LIFE EXPERIENCE HAS HUMBLED ME’

ACTING EDITOR CHARLES AJUNWA / charles.ajunwa@thisdaylive.com

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05.05.2017

'Life Experience Has Humbled Me’ Humbled by the painful and traumatic effects of the Nigerian Civil War, Mrs. Chinwe Ezenwa, a business woman, philanthropist and chief executive of Le Look Nigeria, a renowned indigenous luxury outfit, recalled the horrible days of the civil war and its impact on her life. She also spoke to Mary Ekah on how she was inspired to establish Le Look and how she has used her experience to ensure that no one faces the horrors of war again with manufacturing. First of all, I had spent one full month in China during one of my vacations while I was still working, observing what they do in their manufacturing sector. I discovered that those people work 24/7. So immediately those workers I took for training came back, they now realised that the beauty was in the finishing. Before then, they had basic tailoring skills but the technicality of sewing was what they lacked and they were able to sharpened their skills through the training in China and after the training, no longer sew anything below the standard that they were trained on. And right now they are even competing with the Chinese. After the training, we bought a lot of machineries. And then I didn’t get to this level all alone, I had a lot of friends who believed in what we were doing and so supported us financially. I never borrowed from the bank up till now. I tried it once and it was so tough that I decided to back out soon after I applied for the loan. But right now, the Bank of Industry (BOI) is reaching out to manufacturers like us and they want to help us. Although theirs is encouraging because one of the criteria is for me to belong to an association and I would be able to access a Passion Fund of N1billion and right now I belong to the Fashion and Designers Association of Nigeria (FADAN) but then accessing the fund is still a problem. So right now we are packaging ourselves so that we can present ourselves properly to BOI for assistance so that we would be able to give opportunity to more Nigerians to learn this trade.

Despite your achievements, you have retained that sense of humility. How do you do it?

Life has thought me to be humble. I have come to realise that without humility you can achieve nothing – you would just be empty as a barrel. You have to stoop to conquer. You have to stay humble to be successful. If you don’t, like they say, ‘pride goes before a fall’.

That I learned a long time ago. You can’t be too proud of anything because you can lose it too. I suffered as a kid during the Civil War. A lot of my age mates died from gunshots, the military killed a lot of young people but I came out of all that alive and free of all the violence during the Civil War, why won’t I be humble?

Even at my work place my workers are amazed at my humility because there are times I just decide to sweep and mop the floor myself. But I usually tell them that I can do whatever thing they do because it is the same blood that runs in our veins, what only differentiate us is the opportunity that I have but that they do not have, other than that, all of us are the same. May be I have been opportune to get something that you are not able to get and that has place me above you. Again, I have remained humble because someone created me, I didn’t create myself. So humility is part and parcel of me. I don’t care what people say, but I must learn to keep my life simple so that life itself does not complicate me either because most of the people that I have seen around me have fallen by the way side because they have refused to keep their lives simple. I go to the market myself and when I do, I dress for it, so that I’m able to meander with the people in the market. I do the common things that the common people do that we, the privileged people take for granted thinking that those other people are destined for it.

What were you doing before Le Look?

I have always worked. And I have this brother of mine who is deaf and dump and also a sister who is physically challenged. So in my family I have two siblings who have issues. I didn’t want them to be pitied, so I had to turn those issues of theirs to something they too would be proud of. So as I was working for government I also set up this business for my brother to manage and after work, I would come over and look into what they were doing. After a certain period, I sent him abroad to go get a special education because here in Nigeria, the deaf and dump schools we had then did not really provide anything after the elementary school. So most of those who passed through these schools could not really further their education. I had to struggle to get my brother to attend Gallaudet University in Washington DC. So when he left for school, I also got that sister of mine to learn how to use her hands. I also got some other managers to manage the business with her until when I resigned from my government job I decided to come in fully.

I worked with federal Ministry of Transport and retired as a director in Maritime Services.

I was also once the Acting Managing Director of National Inland Waterways Authority. I have always tried to do the best in any circumstance I find myself.

You started Le Look for your physically challenged siblings and later joined them fully.

What’s the driving force?

The driving force mostly was and is still the fear of poverty. The fear of not having food on the table, the fear of the condition that the civil war left us was still hunting me. I knew the condition under which we lived. I didn’t want a repeat of that for anybody. So I must say poverty is something to fear because it leads to so many evils. And again, I wanted to put food on so many tables. I want to be able to say that I tried my best while I lived; that I encouraged people through this work to put food on their tables and train their children and that is what I’m still doing.

Ezenwa

Talking about the Civil War, can you state what the effects were like?

When I see the people at IDP camps these days, my heart skips because it brings back the memories of how we lived for three years during the Biafran War. We couldn’t have food; my younger brother suffered Kwashiorkor as a result of malnutrition. Millions of people died of hunger. You could only get a little to eat when you go to the World Council of Churches’ camp and that meant a long trek for very long hours.

Then as a teenager, I witnessed how soldiers forced themselves on young girls. Although I was young, but I didn’t know what it meant to be a youth because mine was a life of struggle even up till now but I don’t regret it, especially now because there is merit in suffering. Suffering strengthens you spiritually, if you take it that it is the will of God. So the war was rough and that is why when I hear people calling for war today, I just say may be they don’t understand what it means to go to war. Exactly what is happening to people at the IDP camps in the North-east is what happened to the Biafrans.

In fact, it was worst because it was our own soldiers shooting our people. The effect was horrible and till now, I don’t like to think about being broke. It must not happen! And this fear of being in lack has driven me to work so hard and until the last day, I will continue to do so.

People say you are 66, slow down. And I ask them: Slow down so that what will happen?

You don’t look 66 years old?

That is because I work hard and I don’t think about age. I walk out every morning except Sundays. I go for a very long walk every morning.

I do aerobics and I eat good food. I have a plain heart, I don’t harbour malice and I don’t envy people. The world is a free place, whatever you want you can get it if you work really hard.

Can you share the success story of Le Look?

Le Look is a French word that means ‘The Look’. When I looked at that circumstance of my brother – he does not hear nor speak but can only see. I felt that despite his challenge, that with his eyes, he would be able to know what to do by mere looking at things. So I called him ‘Le Look’ and so the business was named after him. And he along with my other sibling has been part of this business from the onset. They held forth while it lasted and they made sure that they used it to engage others until I decided to come in fully. And I must say that Le Look is a social conscious organisation. We are after humanity. We are a voice. We are a company that is after capacity building – raising people from grass to grace. Le Look is a voice that would be shouting for future people to hear. It is the voice of the voiceless. If you cannot wear it, carry it. That’s why we make accessories of all sorts, slippers and sandals, bags of all sorts, hats, beddings, curtains and anything for the home. We are promoting African heritage and culture through our works. Le Look is making waves all over the world; our products are in Australia, Germany, Canada, United States and all other parts of the world. Everywhere in world where you see an African bag made with Ankara, Adire or Aso Oke, I can bet it’s made by Le Look.

How did you manage to come this far?

We came this far because of our commitment.

When I retired, I had to examine the staff that my brother left on ground. I decided that I was going to use part of my retirement benefit to take all the workers to China for training, it was a big risk because I wasn’t even sure if they were still going to stay after I had trained them. I had to do it because I wanted the best for Le Look. So I took them to China and told the people I met in China to teach us how they were ruling the world

What are the challenges of staying in the business?

One major challenge is government inappropriate and insensitive taxation. There are so many taxes levelled on SMEs. If government is taxing SMEs that much, how then do we survive? How do we provide jobs for the teaming youths?

If government is looking at us like it looks at big corporations, then SMEs can’t flourish in Nigeria. There must be an incentive for SMEs. Most importantly, let the authorities go round and find out who is doing what and the challenges they face and then address the challenges on the spot. If there is such a body in Nigeria, SMEs will thrive. Another big challenge is that there are lots of technicalities involved in getting our products done because we don’t just cover bags; we manufacture them from start to finish.

We want to always produce what we would be proud of anywhere in the world. And so we need to get the workers properly trained because the slightest mistake affects the whole production. So our biggest challenge is human resources and their behaviours – they are here today and gone tomorrow. If we are able to manage the human resource issue, we would overcome the infrastructure challenge. That is why I invest a lot in training my workers.

What are you doing to ensure that the foundation is sustained?

Recently, I engaged a consultant. I had visited the Enterprise Development Centre at Lagos Business School where I consulted with some very serious minded people who referred me to somebody we are consulting presently for succession planning. And right now, we have identified people who can take over from me.

That is actually very critical right now, considering my age and every other thing.

How do you feel about your achievements?

I feel humbled. Most times, when I travel abroad carrying bags made by me, people see and like them and then ask where the bags are made. I tell them they are made in Nigeria and they would ask, if they can pay me and collect the bags. I would humbly give them the bags and collect the money without telling them I made it. I feel it is not necessary to blow my trumpet right there because I know that when they open the bags, they would find my label and the telephone number on it. That’s enough!

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05.05.2017

Shaping Tomorrow’s Leaders The founder of Slot brand along with other successful individuals in different fields of endeavour at the University of Lagos, recently shared their experiences with UNILAG students with the aim of inspiring them and to broaden their minds on different approaches to pursuing a fulfilling career in different fields. Peace Obi reports For every successful individual, there is always a place for the little beginning, disappointment and even failures. Surmounting same challenges when they reared their ugly heads had businesses and dreams submerged, leaves them distinguished. They stand tall anywhere they go, making their experiences serve as tonic for successful businesses or career life.

Interestingly, in between their story lines are traces of courage, diligence, resilience and tenacity. Oftentimes, when reviewed with a view of tapping from their experiences, one realises that these individuals are somewhat 'unwritten books', people desirous of joining the league of successful people train in any field may consider 'reading'.

The founder, Slot Systems Limited, Mr. Nnamdi Ezeigbo to the chagrin of most students disclosed that he never set out to be a businessman. The graduate of Electrical/Electronics Engineering from Yaba College of Technology, after graduation, just like any brilliant young man had his eyes fixed on securing a plum job with any of the oil companies in the country. A dream he pursued for two years after graduation without a success.

And sighting a seemingly ray of light and hope flashing his path when invited for a job interview by Mobile eventually ended up being a dashed hope. Ezeigbo who was one of the guest speakers during the Centre for Values in Leadership's (CVL) Higher Education Leadership and Mentoring Programme at University of Lagos recently, told the students that a review of his career plans brought him into IT business.

According to the Slot CEO, losing out at the very last stage of the interview process and being the only candidate out of the 21 candidates to be dropped by the panelist got him thinking.

Taking the bull by the horn, Ezeigbo went into a review of his career plans and choices. A step he said led into an inward search and discovery of his strength and passion.

"I never thought of becoming a businessman just like most of you in this room, mine was borne out of necessity. After my service year I wanted to work in an oil company just like most of you would love to. But interestingly, I spent two years looking for my dream job and it never happened. Even when I attended an interview in Mobile, it was very close and at the last stage, I was the only one that was dropped out of 21 people.

For some people may read many meanings into it, but I took the bull by the horns and so I looked inward and said to myself 'what can I do for myself since I can't get the job that I wanted.' So, it was like looking inward to find my strength and I based that on my passion,” he said.

Speaking on a topic, ‘Apprenticeship to Entrepreneurship’, Ezeigbo disclosed that with his new discovery on the career path to go, he was confronted with some take off challenges such as capital and other logistics.

Leveraging on his course of study at the higher institution, Ezeigbo decided to pull resources from his knowledge bank (engineering) and ventured into entrepreneurship through apprenticeship. To him, seeking a more enduring capital - knowledge was what mattered most to him at the onset. Combing his certificate with practical hands-on work experience made possible by a friend, he soon became a sought after in fixing computers. "So because I studied Electrical/Electronics Engineering, it was very easy for me to learn computer engineering with a friend who has a computer engineering outfit at that time. What I did was to work with this friend like an apprentice. I invested in knowledge, because outside there, it is very competitive. You need to upgrade your knowledge to actually make impact as an entrepreneur or a businessman.”

To keep himself abreast with the needed knowledge in his chosen field, Ezeigbo did not only obtain an additional degree in Electrical/Electronics, he obtained his Masters in Information Technology, an alumnus of

L-R: Founder, Centre for Values in Leadership, Prof. Pat Utomi, the Founder, Slot Brand, Mr. Nnamdi Ezeigbo and Deputy Vice Chancellor, Development and Academics, UNILAG, Prof. Folasade Ogunsola, at the higher education mentoring programme held at the University of Lagos…recently

Lagos Business School and Harvard Business School. Speaking further, the business mogul encouraged the students to get the right kind of training and skills and it should be done in addition to discovering their passion. To him, though Nigerian business environment may be unpredictable and riddled with uncertainties, he believes that it offers unique opportunities to investors. According to him, the ability to study the environment, identify problems and provide solutions would give any intending investor an edge over others in any competitive business environment. "Let us look at Nigerian business environment, it is broad, unpredictable and full if uncertainties. What makes it attractive is the fact that so many people are not interested in looking inward. So, if you understand the business environment, the people, their needs and you are able to design something that is able to meet their needs you have solved a problem. Solve problems and when you do, you have become an entrepreneur. So, look for a cheaper and efficient way to solve problems,” Ezeigbo advised.

And on the best way to start off as a young entrepreneur, "do not start your business as a

We have assembled from various fields of endeavours, people who are doing exceptionally well. We would like you to learn from the experiences of these people. We need you to develop a version of Nigeria you will be proud of

trader, start by rendering services. If you are a software designer, what you need is your brain.

So there are many services you can render.

And in all, you need technology to make life easier for you."

Stressing on the power of competencies, relationships and integrity, Ezeigbo said, "More importantly build relationships, it is like building an empire. I started my business in a very small office space with a friend. And I learnt to fix computers very well. And the fact that I was very competent, attracted people to my small office space. And I also demonstrated integrity that also helped me to attract more people. The easiest form of advertisement is the word of mouth advertisement. If you treat one person well, he tells other people, if you treat one person badly, he equally tells others. I was very competent in my delivery and that helped me to grow my business from the scratch."

Identifying lack of managerial ability as the bane of short-lived businesses, the Slot brand founder disclosed that a good businessman needs capability, strategy and capital to run a thriving business. "You need a combination of capacity and ability to achieve competence that can enable you create value. But most people do not care about ability, they run and work with their capacity alone and that is why you see people who despite having good business ideas, yet they do not last in business. You need the combination of the two,” Ezeigbo said.

The Convener/founder of CVL, Prof. Pat Utomi, earlier in his remarks had hinted that the higher education mentoring programme among other things was designed to enhance the entrepreneurship and employability skills of the participants. "The programme focuses on developing undergraduates' leadership potentials, employability skills, entrepreneurship skills, training and other values transmission activities that will improve the technical quality and competitiveness of Nigerian university graduates in the labour market." Challenging the students to rise to the leadership challenge in the country, the Convener said that it lies

in the hands of Nigerian youths to build a nation they can be proud of. And with an array of seasoned professionals and successful entrepreneurs lined up as guest speakers and mentors, that it is hoped they would learn from the various experiences and possibly spur them into championing a new order of good leadership and governance. "We have assembled from various fields of endeavours, people who are doing exceptionally well. We would like you to learn from the experiences of these people. We need you to develop a version of Nigeria you will be proud of. At the end of the programme you should ask yourself what kind of world do I want to see and how can I impact my world and generation,” he said.

Representing the Vice Chancellor, Prof. Rahmon Bello, the Deputy Vice Chancellor, Development and Academics, Prof. Folasade Ogunsola noted that the institution is committed to raising and nurturing leaders who are not only academically sound but also leaders with strong character.

And that despite failures in leadership in Africa and Nigeria inclusive, "we have beacons of light and hope; men and women of honour that we can point to as our role models for what is good, what is achievable and what is fair in our country. These people are here to share their experiences and inspire you, also to challenge you to live better than you are presently.”

According to the VC, UNILAG in recognition of the need to build strength of character, provides an enabling and conducive environment for learning to enable it produce inquisitive, innovative and creative leaders that can influence their generation, the institution has continued to work together with public and private sectors towards realising its goal. Other speakers include, the Acting British High Commissioner and Director for Operations at Uk Trade and Investment, Mr. Ahmed Bashir, Consul General, German Consulate, Lagos, Mr. Ingo Herbert, agriculturalists, Mr. Victor Okoro, Rev. Fr. Fortunatus Okeke, Somachi Chris-Asoluka, Tosin Otitoju, among others.

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05.05.2017

‘Nigerian Prince’ Wins $1m Grant at New York Film Festival A proposed new movie on Nigerian email scammers, ‘Nigerian Prince’, written and directed by Faraday Okoro and produced by Biyi Bandele and Oscar Hernandez-Topete, has won a $1million AT&T grant at the Tribeca Film Festival in New York.

The movie was announced winner recently at the film fiesta after a hard-fought pitching session tagged ‘AT&T Presents: Untold Stories’ featuring scripts from four other talented filmmakers. The winning movie script swayed a Greenlight committee led by Fiona Carter, AT&T Chief Brand Officer, after listening to a pitch on its story idea, budget and film script. Also listed in the committee were Hollywood actors Jeffrey Wright and Anthony Mackie, Josh Deutsch (Chairman and CEO, Downtown Records), Lee Daniels (Film Producer), Len Amato (President, HBO Films) and Frida Torresblanco (Film Producer).

The session was the first edition of the AT&T and Tribeca new film initiative. AT&T will provide funding of up to $1 million for Faraday Okoro and Biyi Bandele to create his film, and Tribeca will provide mentorship

Faraday Okoro, writter and director of ‘Nigerian Prince’

from seasoned industry professionals. In addition, AT&T plans to distribute the winning film across several of its video platforms, including DIRECTV NOW, AT&T's streaming over-the-top service.

Nigerian Prince is based on the notorious email scams that have proved a plague to both local and international law authorities. The plot centres around a stubborn

Nigerian-America teenager who is sent to Nigeria against his will. Things take an unexpected turn when the protagonist joins forces with an internet scammer, in order to return to the United States.

Bandele is a famous Nigerian filmmaker, novelist and playwright. His trajectory into the creative sphere began in 1987 where he studied drama at the Obafemi Awolowo University, Ile-Ife. Spending the first 18 years of his life in Northern Nigeria, Bandele harboured a strong desire to be a writer from a tender age winning his first award at the age of 14. As a playwright, Bandele has published several works including The Man Who Came in from the Back of Beyond (1991) and The Street (1999) and Burma Boy (2007) which earned acclaim.

He made his directorial debut film, Half of a Yellow Sun, which was screened at the 2013 Toronto International Film Festival and Fifty which screened at the London Film Festival, both of them earning international critical-acclaim in Nigeria and the UK. The director signed with the Temple Management Company in January.

Rivers at 50: King Jaja of Opobo, Concubine Hit Stage Mary Ekah As part of activities lined up to kick start the Rivers State at 50 celebrations, the state government through its Ministry of Culture and Tourism has decided to entertain, educate and serenade indigenes of the state with two historic works of art.

The carefully selected creative works are the stage adaption of Elechi Amadi’s globally acclaimed novel, Concubine and the great nationalist play, King Jaja of Opobo. Interestingly, some leading Nollywood stars would wow audiences on stage in both plays respectively. Leading the cast of King Jaja of Opobo is multitalented actress, TV personality and ace producer, Monalisa Chinda-Coker, a proud Ikwerre princess from Rivers State. Other talented thespians that are expected to thrill and tantalise audiences in the stage play include: Norbert Young, Francis Duru, Bimbo Manuel, Walter Anga among several others.

Very creative Miesonuwa Minima did

King Jaja play major actress, Monalisa Chinda

the play writes for King Jaja of Opobo.

Amazingly, Concubine, which play writes was done by Imo Edward, has famous faces such as: Segun Arinze, Ebele Okaro, Onyeka Onwenu, Joy Ngadi and several others as leading cast members. While the timeless piece, King Jaja of Opobo’s live performance holds elaborately on Thursday,

May 18, 2017, that of Concubine is expected to come up loud on Tuesday, May 23, 2017 at the upscale Hotel Presidential, Port Harcourt, capital of the oil rich state, 6.p.m, respectively. These golden jubilee productions, which are already serenading Rivers and its environs is being produced by the Thespian Crew Consult under the supervision of the Rivers State Ministry of Culture and Tourism.

In a brief chat with newsmen, one of the principal actors, Monalisa Chinda– Coker hailed the Rivers State Governor, Barrister Nyesom Wike for rolling out the drums to celebrate the rich cultural heritage of the state on the occasion of its 50thanniversary.

“We want to revive the era of stage productions with these two great works that have a lot to tell about our rich culture, tradition and customs. Congrats to my state on this historic celebration.

I’m proud to come from this great state.

We all must join hands to make Rivers great again and the time is now.”

Breach Repairers National Conference Holds May 12 Following its discovery that the youths have been neglected so much that they are freely being involved in various vices that have continuously been detrimental to the society, the Breach Repairer, an NGO that aims at raising a generation of Nigerian youths that are purpose driven with the resolve to bringing positive change Osinbajo in the society, has called on parents, teachers government and concerned adults to wake up to the task of raising a godly heritage. Speaking during a press briefing to announce a National Parental Conference billed to hold on Friday, May 12 at the Guiding Light Assembly, Ikoyi, Lagos, the Coordinator, Breach Repairer, Pastor Chuks Nduka said the annual event has the theme, “Operation Critical Rescue” and serves as a platform to raise the total Nigerian child – the hope for a better Nigeria. He explains further that for this year’s edition, there are plans for training on purposeful parenting amongst other things, noting, “We believe that to be able to show the way, you must know the way. Beyond this, we hope to begin to challenge stakeholders on the need to leave an enduring legacy for building successful godly seeds that will restore our Nigerian dream.”

Nduka revealed further that for the second year running, the wife of the Vice-President, Mrs. Dolapo Osinbanjo has decided to lead the lines towards the quest for raising godly seeds, adding that the wife of the Abia State governor, Mrs. Nkechi Ikpeazu as well as the Deputy Governor of Lagos State, Dr. Idiat Adebule have agreed to join the Vice-President’s wife in the campaign this year. He stressed that the need for parents and teachers to be present at this year’s conference cannot be overemphasised as over 70 per cent of the Nigerian child’s time is spent with teachers.

Adaa Unleashes ‘Itoro’

Repackaged Ruzu Bitters Deepens Market A2W Limited, sole distributors of Ruzu Herbal Bitters, has repackaged the premium herbal product in a way that is more appealing and with the ultimate target of affirming its grip of the market. The new brand looks beautiful, premium and catchy.

The rebranding process moved the product from its former 350ml size to 500ml and the former 125ml to 200ml. This comes with an almost insignificant change in price which translates to giving consumers more for less.

Group Managing Director, Mr. Adeolu Akinyemi who performed the unveiling of the rebranded product during a colourful ceremony in Lagos, noted that the rebranding was necessitated to ensure that consumers have access to a top quality brand, enjoy more volume of their favourite herbal bitters at an affordable price while leveraging on the same product to achieve better health and more wealth.

The event attended by over 700 guests was filled with high energy and excitement featuring comedy performances from Still Ringing and Oso Short. Top distributors were also rewarded with gift items ranging from microwave ovens to television, washing machine, burner gas cookers, phones and Apple laptops Akinyemi, whose vision is to see Ruzu Herbal Bitters become Nigeria’s best gift to the world noted that “Ruzu Herbal Bitters is a 100 per cent Natural, 100 per cent Made-in-Nigeria Herbal Bitters and popularly called “Nature’s Pure Marvel. It has been in the market nationwide since

Adaa

L-R: Head of Marketing, A2W Ltd, Temitope Akinyemi; Platinum Distributor, Ijeoma Chukwu; Group Managing Director, Adeolu Akinyemi; Platinum Distributor, Emeka Nwankwo and Gold Distributor, Olaolu Daramola, at the event

2014 and continues to grow in leaps and bounds. The Herbal Bitters is known to help with mopping up Oxidative Stress in the body, a condition that leads to cellular damage and research shows to be the underlying cause behind major ailments around the world.’

He added that the company has recorded amazing testimonies from users of her products with over 200 recorded testimonies available on You Tube with many more shared privately. “Ruzu Herbal Bitters comes in as an affordable and effective way to help Nigerians live a healthy life. Made with three major herbs, Ruzu stands tall in

the herbal space in Nigeria and currently being exported to other countries including USA,” he said.

Marketing Manager, Temitope Akinyemi said that as part of efforts to impact positively on members, she said the company recently launched a Home Ownership Plan that enables distributors to grow through a proven system. “In doing this, they qualify for all expense paid trips, brand new cars and ultimately a house worth N30,000,000. This is the first time in the history of multi-level distribution in Nigeria that a company will be promising such largesse and also walking the talk,” she added.

Following the success of her last single, ‘Do Me Like This’, singer and song writer, Veronik Adaa is heating the entertainment scene up as she has just released her third single entitled Itoro. “I am so excited. The response has been awesome! It is an inspirational song and the message is that no matter how bad it is, if you are hardworking, you can still make a good life in your country. “In Paris, I see a lot of stranded Nigerians in Sambro, a lot of girls standing along the streets and waiting for men to pick them up. I see a lot of blacks suffering. And I feel that instead I staying here and suffering, I would rather go back to my country and live well. So, ‘Itoro’ is saying that you can have a good life in your country. Even if you are from a poor background, you can still be something. So the song is a kind of encouragement for all those who are down.” Among others, the fast rising singer who returned to Nigeria a while ago, is currently working on an EP project to showcase the cultural diversity of her music and dynamic rhythm. Born April 2 in Port Harcourt, the Rivers State capital into the family of the Cyprians’ Adaa is the oldest of her siblings. From her childhood days she has always nursed the dream to become a widely recognised artiste in pop culture, Adaa's interest in music began at the tender age of five in church. This passion for music carried her through as she started writing her own songs at the age of 18, the same time she started singing in pubs, as well at several live acoustic performances.

31/LIVING

05.05.2017

AXA Mansard Partners Terra Kulture Lai Mohammed unveils arena

Mary Ekah Driven by its passion for art and the development of the Nigerian culture, leading Nigerian insurance provider, AXA Mansard Insurance Plc has thrown its weight behind the recently launched world-class modern arts theatre ‘Terra Kulture Arena’, which was unveiled by the Minister of Information and Culture, Alhaji Lai Mohammed, who was the special guest at the event.

An initiative of arts mogul and top producer, Bolanle Austen Peters, the 400-seater, stateof-the-art theatre dubbed the “Terra Kulture Arena” and located in Victoria Island is first of its kind privately owned theatre in Nigeria.

The theatre was conceived out of the desire to fill a significant gap in the theatre industry. With this achievement, Terra Kulture has proven to be the one-stop destination for culture and art enthusiasts.

The arena is the first privately owned technology equipped modern arts theatre in the whole of Nigeria. It has already broken records with its recent two-day launch, which hosted over 1,200 theatre enthusiasts.

Regarded as the all in one centre for arts and culture aficionados, the space was built to serve a significant need in the theatre industry as only a few places in Nigeria provide the appropriate ambiance, for Nigerians and foreigners alike to experience Nigeria’s rich cultural heritage.

Guests were treated to drinks by Scavi and

Mrs. Maiden Ibru, Mrs. Bolanle Austen-Peters, Alhaji Lai Mohammed, Dr. Timi Austen-Peters and Pastor Paul Adefarasin at the opening of Terrakulture Arena

Ray and an exquisite array of canapés in the new ultra-modern lounge and the audience was thrilled with short clips from Saro the musical, Waka the musical and BAP productions’ newest feature, Fela and the Kalakuta queens which will show throughout December. There was also a special rendition of the soundtrack of Wakaa by soul singer, Brymo.

Over the years, Terra Kulture has developed and maintained its reputation as the hub for stage productions by both local and international companies. This initiative of the company not only gives the theatre industry a boost but

also reinforces the position of Lagos as the leading destination for premium entertainment in Nigeria.

Upon commencement of full operations, the theatre will also double as a movie screening venue and will be set to host a range of shows, plays and musicals. It will also play the challenging role of providing Nigerians with a wide schedule of theatre, comedy, music and dance.

In his address, Minister of Information and Culture, Hon. Alhaji Lai Mohammed, commended Bolanle Austen Peters and pledged the support of the federal government to boost art and culture

in the country.

According to Bolanle Austen Peters, Terra Kulture CEO, Terra Kulture Arena is a dream come true which was realised as a result of commitment, determination and support. “We are truly grateful to AXA Mansard for their show of faith by supporting our quest to reengineer theatre business in Nigeria through Terra Kulture Arena and we look forward to the exciting performances lined at the state-of-the-art Arena,” she said.

Speaking on the decision to support the initiative, the Chief Marketing Officer of AXA Mansard Insurance Plc, Mr. Kola Oni, noted that, “Nigerian arts provide everyone, a beautiful platform of expression. Our culture and heritage are our pride as a nation and we must do well to propagate it. The Terra Kulture Arena is a positive sign of the rebound in appreciation for Nigerian art and culture. AXA Mansard is glad to be a part of this legacy. Promoted and driven by Terra Kulture CEO, Bolanle Austen Peters, there is no doubt of its ability to deliver on its purpose,” Oni said.

The AXA Group is a worldwide leader in insurance and asset management, with 166,000 employees serving 107 million clients in 64 countries. AXA Mansard was incorporated in 1989 as a private limited liability company and is registered as a composite company with the National Insurance Commission of Nigeria (NAICOM).

Silky Touch Emporium Upgrades Abuja Outlet Mary Ekah Ogbuefi Victor Okolie, Chief Executive Officer of Silky Touch Emporium, a luxury goods shop, has explained reasons behind the renovation which heralded the recent re-opening of its Abuja outlet. Speaking recently with journalists in Lagos, the business mogul said, “We decided to reconstruct the Abuja Emporium just to meet international standards and complement the luxury brand we stand for. As time goes on, I believe one should look back and look at one or two things. The luxury emporium has to wear the look of luxury, not only with the goods, but the interior ambience, comfort, technology must also speak luxury.”

Okolie explained that the new luxury looks the Abuja outlet intends to offer its customers is something that can be measured with the best luxury shops anywhere in America, Europe and

Silky Touch Emporium CEO, Okolie

Asia, adding, “We want the Emporium to be at par with most luxury shops in the world or even better.” Speaking further on the benefits the renovation is expected to bring, he said, “It

has to provide all the comfort you can think of- a good ambience, the atmosphere must be well controlled, the display stands, the floor, the walls and the lightings. Not only that, we are also working on the staff, the personalities.

They would be trained to have an idea of what they are there for. So comfort isn’t only with the shop as a culture, but it has also got to do with the people working there because customers have to be comfortable with the staff.

“The after-sales service we render is also next to none. We have our Italian-trained tailors that do alterations to specification. Customers can be sure that they’ll be well taken care of,” Okilie added.

The luxury shop which stocks the best labels deals in various brands such as Stefano Ricci, now rated to be the best and the most expensive luxury goods. It also has in stock Pal Zileri, a brand which has upgraded so much with

their change of management. There is also do Cortigiani, Umberto Biliancioni and in the leather section, it has NIPMAR, Mauri, The Bridge and Delga- all top-notch brands.

Okolie who has been in the fashion business for over 30 years recounted the challenges encountered so far. “There is no business without challenges, either with government policies or facilities needed for the business but most importantly is the human factor, as we try to get the real professionals in this field because it is a specialised one and you know the human factor has got a lot to do with the success of any business. Once you can get it right, then you can get the business going. We also have some difficult customers. Because we are dealing in luxury goods, customers always want the full benefits for their money.

So we have to deal with every little complaint when it comes.

Light Up Awards 2017 to Showcase Governors with Outstanding Power Projects

Head of School Imperial Gate School, Mrs. Mabel Ogaraku with one of the winners at the 9th Inter House Sports Competition

Imperial Gate School Holds 9th Inter House Sports The annual sports competition of the Imperial Gate School recently took place in Lekki, Lagos, with club presentations and special march past that won the admiration of parents and guests.

Speaking at the event, the Head of the School, Mrs. Mabel Ogaraku said the school paid a lot of attention to sports. "Apart from academics, we pay attention to other activities that will make the children well rounded and sports is one of those activities. Our students overtime have been proven to be strong because each year we get to break new records as they enjoy whole concept of sports,” she noted Ogaraku noted that the annual sports competition brings parents and staff together to celebrate the children. "The competition is not about who wins but about participation, teamwork, fun, sportsmanship and cooperation,” she added.

She identified sports as academics booster and was hopeful that talents have been discovered.

Speaking further, the school head said, “For a child to be academically strong there has be a balance. Sports challenge children to be attentive and maintain time management. It makes children alert physically and mentally which is transmitted into education. At this level we encourage and groom children because we know they have hidden talents. All we would like to see is those in government to support sports from grassroots. Their physical appearance will make a difference and if they encourage and support sports, talents would be discovered for the betterment of Nigeria.” At the end of competition, House of Caesar emerged 1st position with 22 Gold, 14 Silver and 17 Bronze House of Windsor, came second with 21 Gold, 18 Silver and 24 bronze while House of Emperor came third with 18 Gold, 27 Silver and 13 Bronze.

4th position went to House of Orleans with 12 Gold, 14 Silver and 18 bronze.

The 2nd Edition of Nigeria’s Light Up Awards 2017, holding later this year, will be focusing on the Electricity Power projects of the 36 states governors. These projects were submitted by the states for entries for the award and are available on www.projectlightupnigeria.com for Nigerians at home and in the diaspora to view, appraise and vote for final winners of the various awards categories available this year. The organisers of this innovative award event has already sent out requests to A well light up street in Lagos State the 36 states Governors to make available pictures and details of electricity power which Nigerians hate. Some of the Governorship projects executed by them for this purpose and Award categories available are: ’Governor with states are already responding. The date for this the Biggest State Power Plant’, ’Governor with award event which shall be held at Eko Hotels the Highest Number of Streetlight Projects 2017’’, and Suites, Victoria Island, Lagos and streamed ‘’Governor with the Best Maintained Streetlight live on a DSTV channel shall be announced Projects 2017’’, ’Governor with the Best Rural Electrification Projects 2017’’ and ‘’Energy Governor shortly.

Speaking to newsmen in Lagos, the National of the year 2017’’ amongst others. Ukpabi said Coordinator of Project Light Up Nigeria, Mr. Frank this year’s edition promises to be more interesting Aja Ukpabi said Nigeria’s Light Up Awards is as it will reveal the project performance status of designed to encourage elected public office hold- public officials elected on the platform of the two ers who are already delivering on their electoral major political parties in the country presently promises in the area of electricity power projects unlike in the past when only one party enjoyed to do more and at the same time emphasize overwhelming presence in the political arena. The the urgent need for Nigerian voters to desist Awards will show the political party whose elected vehemently from voting for public office holders public officials have delivered more electricity who have been revealed to be non-achievers for power projects under this administration and any second term in office as that is primarily are therefore qualified to be re-elected come 2019 responsible for our nation’s lack of development general elections.

32 / ERAVE

05.05.2017

eraveonline@gmail.com

Blackface Speaks on Why He is Suing 2Face Idibia

Blackface And 2baba

Following his recent outburst concerning alleged intellectual property theft, Ahmedu Augustine popularly known as Blackface has revealed that he and his legal team are working on taking his former Plantashun Boiz group member, 2Baba to court.

Speaking in a recent interview, Blackface said he believes that the court would help him recover all that he is entitled to since 2Face and his team has decided to ignore him. “My legal team and I are working to recover what belongs to me. When I accused them, they lied and said it’s unfortunate. I said they took my song and then even said maybe my account was hacked. Well, if you thought so why didn’t you pick

up your phone and call? But no, they won’t because they wanted to steal it and it backfired, and they trying to act ‘holy’ so they make flimsy excuses. 2Face and his manager planned all of that.

2face sang my song, Let Somebody Love You and featured an American artiste Bridget Kelly. His manager published it without my permission. Till today they haven’t deemed it fit to tell the world that they tried to ‘assassinate’ my character in the media but that couldn’t be justice and they know. So, the court is our only option as they keep avoiding meetings thinking that with time it will all fade off. But, they know not what tomorrow holds and neither do I.”

The singer who recently released his sixth studio album titled Defender said he has not enjoyed any royalty from the monstrous hit, Africa Queen which was written by him. “All the facts about those will be known soon because there is so much unfinished business around the song since its release till date. And all the royalties will have to be traced and paid to whom it’s due. It’s a huge song and I always thought it will be that big when we (Plantashun Boiz) used to sing it for fans under the trees in 201 Road in my late uncle, Captain Moses’ retired, place in Festac Town.

Nobody had that sort of melody or style at that time, so it was bound to be a hit.”

@eraveng

www.eraveng.com

TEKNO

After revealing about a week ago that he was down with Acid Reflux (commonly known as heartburn) and was going abroad for treatment, the talented singer has been responding well to treatment. Tekno took to Instagram to share the cheering news that he’s feeling much better and his fans were delighted with the news as shown in their comments. Within the time he left country, he’s dropped a new song simply titled ‘Be’ and produced by Sarz.

PASUMA

Ice Prince Denies Any Clash With Davido According to the manager of Ice Prince, Nanle, there was no dispute between Davido and Ice Prince in Delta. This is contrary to earlier reports that the singers who were in Warri for a show organised by CEO of Quillox, Shina Peller, fought each other at the backstage.

Shedding more light on the issue, Nanle said “There is no iota of truth in the report.

After the event, both Davido and Ice Prince went to the club and had fun.”

A blog had reported that the drama began when a G-Wagon was sent to pick Davido up from the airport, while a saloon car was used in picking Ice Prince.

The development it was gathered report reportedly infuriated Ice Prince and bared his mind to the organisers of the event.

Davido was reportedly infuriated and the situation only got worse during the concert when Ice Prince was made to perform before Lil Kesh, which was seen as an insult as he is a bigger star. Davido who is a friend of Kesh reportedly couldn't take it anymore and took to the backstage to cause havoc.

Popular Fuji artiste, Pasuma has just bagged a new chieftaincy title. He has just been conferred with Togan of Badagry Kingdom in Lagos State. The singer shared a photo of himself via his instagram page on Sunday April 23, 2017 with the caption: "Alhamdulillah. TOGAN OF BADAGRY KINGDOM."

davido and ice prince

Runtown Signs Multi-million Naira Endorsement Deal Rave of the moment, Runtown has signed a new multi-million naira endorsement deal with Infinix Mobile.

The new deal will see Runtown become the face of Infinix Mobile through regular interactions to push the products and help make them become part of a lifestyle that represents trend-setting and

intelligent experiences for young people around world.

Speaking on the new deal, Runtown says, “like I always say, it’s been God all the way.

We thank God for growth, we thank him for the recognition and talent and most importantly a great team. It can only get better from here on.”

FREEZE Controversial Cool FM OAP, Daddy Freeze has responded to his former wife’s accusations that he comes from an abusive family. Freeze took to his Instagram account to express his shock at Opeyemi, his ex-wife’s actions and explained his own side of the story as regards the failed marriage. He also accused her of being behind Andela Smith social media account which has been writing negative reports about him.

Runtown

33/ TRAVEL, LEISURE & TOURISM

05.05.2017

Lai Mohammed Urges T.B. Joshua to Remain in Nigeria Says Nigeria’s tourism will be affected if T.B. Joshua relocates to Israel The Minister Information and Culture, Alhaji Lai Mohammed, has urged the founder of Synagogue Church of All Nations (SCOAN), Pastor Temitope Balogun Joshua (T.B. Joshua) not to relocate from Nigeria to Israel over what the pastor described as hostile environment.

He disclosed this during the Annual General Meeting (AGM) of the Nigerian Association of Tour Operators (NATOP) held in Ikeja, Lagos. The minister pleaded with T.B. Joshua to reconsider the decision as it would not be in the interest of Nigeria. He called for dialogue between the pastor and authorities over whatever challenges that he was facing.

“That will be very unfortunate in the sense that if he does move out, it will affect

our tourism in Nigeria. Pastor Joshua is an important person, he must bear with us. This is his country. If he moves out and go to South Africa (for example), the revenue will go to South Africa. It is better that Pastor Joshua sits down with the relevant authority and resolve whatever problem he has. If I have access to him this is exactly what I am going to tell him.”

The founder SCOAN, Pastor TB Joshua had during church service on March 30, declared that he was pulling out of Nigeria to relocate to Israel over hostility to him and his ministry.

He said: ““This is the most persecuted ministry in the world. Who are the people persecuting the ministry? My people, Africa.

“That is why I choose to live a lonely life.

If you want to see me, come to this church. I don’t go out. It has not been easy – because I don’t know who is a friend or who is an enemy. If you learn T.B. Joshua is not around, I am in a revival. I live in the church here. I don’t have a house outside.

“What happened to me from the beginning of my ministry is enough to chase me out of this country – but I am still in your midst.

Upon the persecution and hatred – I decided to follow the path of love. You show hatred; I show love. When I go for a revival, you will see the stadium full but I am not carried away by that. I leave where I’m celebrated to live where I’m persecuted.”

T.B.Joshua

Lufthansa, Austrian Airlines Offer High Speed Internet on Short and Medium Haul Flights Unlimited surfing and streaming in the skies over Europe – from now on, this will be the reality on many Lufthansa and Austrian Airlines aircraft. This means a seamless Internet connectivity from the long haul flights like from Nigeria that have been equipped with this technology for a while now. Internet access will also be available on Eurowings flights in a few weeks’ time. Up to now, 19 Lufthansa A320 family fleet aircraft, as well 31 Austrian Airlines and 29 Eurowings aircraft have been fitted with the necessary Wifi technology and satellite antennae for this service. Additional ones are in the process of being equipped.

This new high speed technology has been successfully tested in the past months on both Lufthansa and Austrian Airlines flights.

The internet access works simply via Wifi using the passengers' own mobile devices.

The offers range from messaging services through surfing the net and even to video streaming. Customers can choose from one of three service packages. On Lufthansa flights, they comprise FlyNet Message for three euro FlyNet Surf for seven euro and FlyNet Stream for twelve euro per flight.

Austrian Airlines will offer the same services at the same prices under the names myAustrian FlyNet Message, myAustrian FlyNet Surf and myAustrian FlyNet Stream. Passengers can either pay via credit card or payment services

Flynet

such as PayPal. Soon it will also be possible to make purchases by using Air Miles or via roaming partners.

The internet provision of the Lufthansa Group airlines and their technology partner Inmarsat uses the most advanced broadband satellite technology (Ka-Band) and offers seamless and reliable coverage on short and medium haul

flights via the Inmarsat network Global Xpress (GX). The internet service provider and partner of Inmarsat is Deutsche Telekom. Lufthansa Technik is responsible for fitting the systems and components, as well as dealing with the required aviation regulations and other statutory authorizations. They are currently equipping the entire Airbus A320 family fleet

of Lufthansa Group Airlines – Lufthansa, Austrian Airlines and Eurowings. Lufthansa Systems is providing the necessary technical infrastructure for internet connection on board.

This includes the network operation in the aircraft – the technical prerequisite for Wifi on board – as well as the provision of the required software for the operation of each airline’s respective internet portal, through which the passenger gains access to the net.

Lufthansa has always been a pioneer when it comes to digitalisation on board. As early as on 15 January 2003, the airline offered the world's first long-haul commercial flight with internet access. Despite its growing popularity among passengers, the technically reliable service had to be discontinued in 2006 because the satellite operator “Connexion by Boeing” ceased commercial operations. However, since December 2010 Lufthansa has once again been the first airline to provide broadband internet access on intercontinental flights. As of June 2015, FlyNet has been available on all 107 long-haul aircraft in the Lufthansa fleet currently in service.

Eurowings has also been providing internet access on board of all its long-haul flights since the end of 2015. After the Boeing 777 had joined their fleet, SWISS also offered internet access on long-haul flights and is currently planning to introduce internet on board its short- and medium-haul flights from 2018 onwards.

Culinary Tourism Should be the Next Big thing in Africa Interest in culinary travel, from sampling street food to cooking classes with local chefs, has been growing exponentially worldwide.

And although Africa is not immediately top of mind for food enthusiasts, the destination should not be overlooked.

That was the word from Julian Asher, founder and managing director of Timeless Africa, at the World Travel Market Africa, which was held in Cape Town from April 19 to 21.

Asher told delegates that Africa is slowly getting on the radar as a culinary destination by travelers looking for more “authentic” travel experiences. Said Asher: “Food is one of the few travel trends that cannot be experienced virtually or online. It remains very authentic and very real.”

Pamela McOnie, Cape Fusion Tours, says she started her culinary tourism company at the end of 2002 with a dream of offering culinary tours and wine tours. She says: “I found I was way too early; we were not perceived as either a culinary or a wine destination. It was a hard sell.

I started planting the seed on my regular tours by telling travelers there was so much more to do and see from a food and wine perspective. It seems that finally the seed has grown and we are starting to be perceived by the international press as a great value for money culinary and wine destination.”

Sherwin Banda, President of African Travel, agreed.

“Culinary tourism in general is on the rise, with travelers wanting to discover and taste new and authentic dishes while enjoying local hospitality. These have all become part of the authentic travel experience,” he said. “In South Africa, particularly, the food is vibrant

and diverse, making food experiences unique, and the wine scene has gained international recognition, making Africa a foodie hot spot for travelers.”

Alfredo Seidemann, chief marketing officer for Rhino Africa, said that Cape Town in particular has a wide variety and incredible quality when it comes to culinary travel. He mentioned the fine dining scene is one of the best in the world and remains very affordable for international travelers. Seidemann explained that a good example of a unique sensory experience is the Test Kitchen in Cape Town, which offers amazing wine pairing experiences.

But fine dining isn’t a priority for most culinary travelers, according to Asher. “When mentioning culinary tourism, most people think four-star, Michelin-rated restaurants. However, the majority of travelers is more interested in authentic and local food experiences,” he noted.

Asher explained there are culinary experiences in Africa that you simply won’t find anywhere else in the world. “Imagine combining a culinary and cultural experience and go foraging with the bushmen in Tanzania,” he said. “Or taste coffee at the place where [the beans were grown] in Africa.”

Even the South Africa winelands experience is vastly different than it is in the U.S., said Asher. “South Africa offers a completely different experience where travelers can taste heritage wines as well as experience new techniques.”

Asher added that the options in Africa are limitless but that unfortunately the destination doesn’t market itself enough as a foodie destination. “This is unfortunate, because food is an important factor when travelers choose a destination.”

Darren Humphreys, Travel Sommelier and

Safari Pros member, agreed, calling gastronomic tourism the most underrated component of the South African tourism landscape.

Humphreys explained that although most travelers are looking for a day (or maximum two days) culinary experience that comprises a visit to an artisanal food market for local ingredients followed by a cookery course, this is changing rapidly as more aware travelers are looking for widespread and immersive experiences, including foraging, farm stays, etc.

However, McOnie argued it is still not the main reason why people travel to the continent.

“We are not a destination where very many people come with a main focus of a culinary holiday,” she said. “People travel to Africa with the main drawcard being the safari; the second drawcard is Cape Town. Foodies will then look into doing some culinary activities while they are here, such as a Cape Malay cooking classes with Cass Abrahams; she is the foremost authority on the cuisine and an absolute treat to spend time with to learn about our cuisine.”

Sean Kritzinger, co-owner and managing director at Giltedge Travel, said travelers are looking for experiences that are unique; they want to taste something that’s typically “African” to fully immerse themselves in the country. He agrees that the U.S. market is not interested in culinary tourism as a whole but in culinary micro-experiences on their vacation. “Most of our U.S. clients still want the safari experience, so while food is an important aspect of their travels, their No. 1 priority is a safari experience, a cultural experience and seeing Cape Town and its famous landmarks like Robben Island,” he said.

Asher agreed that a safari experience remains

one of the main reasons people travel to Africa.

However, he pointed out that food is increasingly becoming an important part of the safari experience, as well. He mentioned that Singita Safari Lodges are devoting a lot of attention to food and are presenting travelers with innovative and contemporary dishes.

Also, African Travel’s Banda said: “Even if you stay in a game lodge or remote reserve, we make sure you get memorable culinary experiences. At Victoria Falls Safari Club in Zimbabwe we offer cultural dining experiences in a traditional boma (an open air, pen-like area inside a wooden fence), and in the Masai Mara you get a gourmet bush breakfast.

Banda added: “On days when an early morning game drive is scheduled, guests normally wake up around 5:30 a.m. and depart at 6 a.m.

Typically, the game drive lasts about three hours.

After being outdoors for that long, you work up quite an appetite. Just when you think you are going back to the lodge for breakfast, the ranger pulls into a clearing, and a complete breakfast spread is laid out with tables and tablecloths.

The lodge waiters and chefs are on hand to serve fresh coffee and juice, and eggs are made to order over an open fire. There’s also a handwashing station. It is the most peaceful setting, just being out in the wilderness, overlooking the plains, enjoying breakfast. And the settings vary; it can be under a massive baobab tree, with tables set up and picnic blankets, or on a hill overlooking a scenic spot.”

Industry players around Africa all agree that culinary options are limitless and that the continent is definitely one to watch on the culinary scene in the years to come.

Source: travelweekly.com

34/XTRA

05.05.2017

High-End Etiquette School, the English Manner, Opens in Lagos Solomon Elusoji One of the UK’s most established etiquette, protocol and household management consultancy, the English Manner, has opened shop in Lagos.

Founded in 2001 by Alexandra Messervy, a former member of the Queen of England’s Royal Household and a fellow of the Royal Society of Arts, the English Manner has a presence across continents – the United States, India, China, Dubai, Australia and, now, Lagos.

At an Open House ceremony held last weekend, THISDAY spoke to the Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of the English Manner Nigeria, Modupeola Adeniji, an astute business woman with over 10 years of operational and management experience as a lawyer, and in the oil and gas sector.

“I realised there was a gap in the acquisition of soft skills among Nigerians professionals,” Adeniji said. “But without social intelligence, there’s only so far you can get. I once met someone who lost his dream job because he did

Adeniji

not give one of the company’s top executives a firm handshake, which suggests he did not have enough confidence to make tough decisions.”

Eleven years ago, she started speaking to the English Manner company in London to grant her a franchise to launch its etiquette in Lagos, but they kept saying no. Until last year, when she brought the firm’s Managing Director, Jimmy Beale, to Nigeria and succeeded

in transmuting to him her enthusiasm for an English Manner in Nigeria. “I was always calling them,” she said, “I think that persistence was a trait I got from my mother.”

Now open to business, Adeniji’s English Manner Nigeria is offering a diverse range of etiquette and protocol courses developed with a global touch, from Essential Corporate Etiquette to Public Speaking, Elocution, Interview and Presentation Skills. More interestingly, however, she has introduced a Nigerian and African etiquette course to cater to the idea of culture preservation. “We want to ensure that our young people stay in touch with their roots,” she said.

The range of the school’s training services is vast. But, ultimately, the aim of attending an English Manner course is to give people a competitive edge, a Senior Tutor at the English Manner, Diane Mather, told THISDAY. Mather, who will be involved in training of staff at English Mather Nigeria is formerly a BBC newsreader, who brings years of first-rate communication

and presentation skills. In the mid-eighties, Diana left her successful career in broadcasting to start training in etiquette and media coaching.

In 2005 she was asked to devise a ‘finishing’ programme to improve manners for young ladies and a year later she introduced the first finishing school for gentleman, in Scotland. She works all over the world with a wide-range of clients that include MPs, senators, lawyers and TV presenters as well as organisations such as BT, Royal Sun Alliance, BBC TV, health authorities and privatised utilities. She is the author of seven books, including two for children and her latest 'Secrets of Confident Communicators'.

“Principally, we teach two things: good manners and etiquette,” Mather said. The former deals with kindness, respect and consideration, while the latter encompasses social rules like how and when to request handshakes, dress code, eye contact. “We also teach people how to leave a room so that the last thing you see is their face not their bottom,” Mather quipped.

Canon Strengthens Presence in Nigeria with Launch of New Products Solomon Elusoji Canon has strengthened its presence in Nigeria by launching the new, powerful EOS 5D Mark IV camera and its E-series PIXMA printers.

The Japanese company, renowned for its manufacture of imaging and optical products, had earlier opened its first Nigerian office in Lagos, in October 2016.

The new products were released in partnership with its Nigerian distributors, Jamaica Trading Company.

“Our ‘closer to customers’ strategy has been one of the pillars of our growth in the African market as it has allowed us to better understand the sentiments of our customers, subsequently enabling us to better serve them,” Sales and

Marketing Director B2C, Canon Central and North Africa (CCNA), Somesh Adukia, said, at a press event held in Lagos.

“Our setting up of a dedicated entity in Nigeria last year and the introduction of the new products today is our next step in this strategy by providing the best possible services to our customers in the region.”

He added that the country’s growing population and love for film and photography was driving Canon’s recent aggressiveness. “Nigeria, with the largest population of over 180 million within Africa and high market share has tremendous potential for further growth,” he said. “It is an important hub for the thriving film industry, which Canon can support through its wide range

of tools and services to help people develop their skills and get the best from their images.”

Speaking on the occasion, the Chairman, Jamaica Trading Company, Mahesh B. Lalwani, said its partnership with Canon was driven by the latter’s trailblazing and qualitative strides in imaging technology.

“Jamaica has always supported reliable brands to meet the needs of consumers as well as business customers in Nigeria,” he said. “Canon is a leader in the imaging and business solutions category in terms of technology, performance and range and events such as these not only strengthen business relationships but also serve as a platform to speak and acquaint stakeholders about the industry’s best offerings. The feedback

we received from the event has been positive and we look forward to organising more of such events in partnership with Canon.”

Canon also announced the results of the photo competition #CelebrateAfrica campaign that traced the full life cycle of an image: from the photographer and their camera. The campaign encouraged African residents from all walks of life to share their best images that challenged stereotypes documenting modern stories that went beyond the hoary clichés. An overwhelming 2,790 photo entries from 25 countries across the Africa region were submitted covering themes such as People, Nature and City Life. Maximum entries were received from top three countries of Kenya, Morocco and Nigeria.

Youths Urged to Embrace Skills Acquisition, Multi-Level Marketing to Augment Earnings Peter Uzoho Speakers at at a one-day summit organised

by WealthPlus Community, an arm of Helping Hands International (H2i) have called on youths in the country to leverage on the opportunities in skills acquisition programmes and multi-level marketing businesses to supplement their income and improve their living condition.

Speaking at the one-day summit in Lagos, National Leader, Helping Hands International and Lawyer, Mrs. Orbby Agwuncha, stated that having one stream of income limits people and makes it difficult for one to be more successful. She pointed out that having multiple streams of income helps to stop many societal problems like crime, corruption and hunger. “So if people, particularly the youth can leverage on the opportunities provided by Helping Hands International they will be able to live a responsible life and avoid some of the ills mentioned,” she said.

She said the empowerment platform provided by the organisation has enabled a good number of youths to learn various life skills. “There are people that are doing paints; some are making shoes; some are into fashion design; some are into make-up. A lot of people have opened

Speakers at the Wealthplus Community Summit in Lagos

shops, manufacturing inverters, making beads, and producing liquid soap. Some are into photography and this is really helping them. It takes them off depression and gives them the hope that the future is bright,” Agwuncha added.

Contributing, Head, Renewable Energy, Lagos State Electricity Board, Mrs. Damilola Makindipe,

urged youths to tap from the gains in networking business which she said was an opportunity for growth.

“This kind of business is an opportunity for you to have multiple streams of income. So this gathering is an avenue for us to learn.

It’s an avenue for us to grow; it’s an avenue

for us to make money. So let’s take advantage of it,” Makindipe said.

Also speaking, Nigeria’s Representative at the International Cakes Exploration Society (ICES), USA, and Chief Executive Officer, Honeysuckle Cakes, Mrs. Chineze Ibuoka, who spoke on ‘opportunities in cake making’, enjoined those passionate about cake business to explore and get new opportunities. She revealed that there are so many angles one can make money in cake business. “There’s little hole in small things you can do and you become somebody. When you come into a business that you think is already saturated, know that there are opportunities that you can still explore,” she said.

On his part, Chief Executive Officer, Wealthplus Community and Partner, Helping Hands International, Amb. Divine Sajere, explained that the pain of seeing youths roaming about jobless informed the creation of Wealthplus Community. “What we intend to do is to see that everyone gets empowered. This time around I’m sending a strong message to all church heads and founders to partner with us in this drive.

We’re ready to take empowerment to churches, communities, and to every home until there is absolute change and revolution everywhere,” he noted.

NGE President: Media Should be Treated as a Business, Not as NGOs Ugo Aliogo, Peter Uzoho and Joshua Odebisi The President of Nigeria Guild of Editors (NGE) Mrs. Funke Egbemode, has called on the public and private sector to treat the media as a serious business and not as Non-Governmental Organisations (NGOs).

Egbemode, who disclosed this at the 2017 World Press Freedom Day Programme, organised by the U.S. Consulate in Nigeria, said since the media plays an active role in nation building through its reportage, there was need for other agencies of the state to give it the needed support.

She explained that there is need for the media to advocate, defend, and promote itself, adding that they give priority attention to other

sectors, without making conscious efforts to promote itself.

Egbemode further called on journalists to pay more attention to fact-checking in their reporting and not depend only on the Freedom of Information Act (FOI).

“We need to do better at checking our facts, we need to not just depend on the Freedom of Information Act, we survived without it, so we must not become complacent and say we have applied for information from the Ministry of Information or Defense and then go to sleep. We must bring out that element with which we work and do things the way it ought to be done. We must continue to rely on our skills, the skills we were born with.

Journalism is not just about what you learn

in school, there is a huge element of passion, we have to bring that element to what we do,” she noted.

She added that in the area of gate keeping, the media in Nigeria is doing its best, while noting that media practitioners in Nigeria have the capacity to compete favourably with their counterparts anywhere in the world.

In his remarks, U.S. Consul General, John Bray, commended the Nigeria media for its efforts in promoting accountability and transparency in governance especially during the military era.

“I have seen that you are still the voice of the forgotten, but I have also seen that you have not lost your search for the truth, or your willingness to go wherever the story leads you. In the process, you portray transparency,

accountability and good governance in your country and the United States fully supports your efforts and the freedom of the press, because we believe that an unfettered press is necessary for democracy to thrive.”

He remarked that advances in technology and reliance on social media platforms as sources of information makes the accuracy and objectivity of their reporting critical.

Advising the media on fact checking, Bray added: “You have to get it right. So check and double check your facts before you put out a story, that increases your personal credibility, the reliability of your platform and reduces your exposure to libel. Also be thorough with your research, take a look at every side of a story before you hit send, in short, be objective.”

35/ENTREPRENEUR

05.05.2017

‘Beads Making Gives Me Satisfaction’ Having lived in the United Kingdom for a while, Kehinde Abiola, Chief Executive Officer, Ejide Beads, a prominent beads maker and beauty consultant came back to Nigeria six years ago with a mindset to do exploit with beads. Tucked away in a corner somewhere around Iyana-Ipaja, Lagos State, this self-thought beads jeweller, from her little corner, found her passion and is today doing scintillating beads necklaces of various kinds and standards, which have attracted international audience. She recalled how it all started in this interview with Mary Ekah

Abiola

What informed your business name, Ejide Beads?

Ejide is coined from the vernacular name for twins. The Igbos call it Ejima while the Yorubas call it Ejire. So there is this woman that was so fond of me when I was still a child. She is from Ife. She loved calling me Ejire or Ejiola each time she sees me. I so much loved the name and when I grew up and decided to establish a business, I just coined the business name, Ejide from these names.

Why did you go into beads making?

I was actually in the UK and that was when I started having my kids, I wasn’t really doing anything serious apart from some minor jobs. I wasn’t satisfied with that.

I wanted something that would give me time to be with my kids and also enable me earn a living. It wasn’t easy with kids and work.

So I wanted something that will give me time, satisfaction and then incomes. I have always been creative. I wanted an avenue to explore my creativity and skills. I wasn’t really fulfilled; I just wanted something I could lay my hands on, something skilful that will bring out the creativity in me. So I decided to start learning craft in beads making from a small jewellery shop in Manchester. But I still wasn’t satisfied with the knowledge I got there and so I made up my mind to come back to Nigeria to acquire more knowledge on beads making and design. I didn’t acquire my knowledge on this at a particular place but went to various places and went on learning the skills on my own. Education is a continuous process and if you fail to update yourself, you would be outdated. So I keep learning in the job every day and I am still leaning. I have been into it fully for like six years now. I started at home and by the grace of God, right now I have a workshop/showroom suited in Iyana-Ipaja, Lagos and that is where I operate from.

How has beads making business been generally in Nigeria?

There has been great innovation in beads making and the fashion industry in general.

Beads accessory has gone beyond what it was at the beginning. It has gone global and then people keep improving on it as the days go by through re-innovation and great creativity. In fact, the beads accessory has gone viral at the moment. It is the in-thing right now.

Are you satisfied with what you are doing today and also financially?

I am very much satisfied. Well, not really in terms of monetary satisfaction but just being happy with what I am doing. I have no regrets that I am a beads maker. It gives me time to be a caring and good mother to my children while I also make a living.

What inspires the kind of artistic beads you make?

I’m usually with my drawing pads and pencil at all times. I may just get inspiration while I’m sitting down during one of those quite moments and then I will quickly sketch what comes to my mind and that’s where the inspirations come most times. And other time, inspirations come just from my imaginations. I also get inspired for new designs from the infusion of the works that I have done before; I turn them around and get something more fantastic.

Who are your target audience?

My target audience cuts across people from all walks of life. Most of my clients are abroad and I also have a lot of clients in Nigeria too.

But how exactly do your international clients reach you while you are hidden in a corner here in Iyana-Ipaja?

That’s an interesting question. It’s a global world and then I have my mobile phone, so my clients reach me through my Facebook page: Kenny Abiola Ejide Beads, where they place order for what they want me to make for them while some others come directly to my workshop/showroom at Iyana-Ipaja here and most time, they come to me through referrals, like someone I have designed beads for before and they saw it and loved my job and then ask to be directed to me. I also have customers that do resell in UK, Canada and America. They buy from me in whole sales and then retail the products in their various destinations.

How affordable are you?

I would not say I’m cheap but I’m also not too expensive. I cut in between but if you are reselling, I will give you at cheaper rate than someone who is using it directly.

That means you have to buy in bulk to get my discount. However the price of every bead I design is determined by the kind of beads I use because beads vary and then the time I spend on making a design also determine the amount I sell them. There are some designs that the materials are not too expensive but the effort and time put into the work are tedious and much. But all in all, you can get something very nice for as low as #2,000 to #60,000 and above.

How do you get your materials?

I get most of my materials in Nigeria but a few are imported. But then most of the materials we use are purely made in Nigeria.

I love doing bold jobs and the accessories for most of such jobs are very scarce and expensive too.

Do you also train people?

Yes, I do have apprentices from time to time. They come, learn and within few months they are gone and can be on their

own, then another set comes and on and on it goes that way. In all, I have trained close to 20 people so for.

What does it take to be a good beads maker?

First, you have to have passion for beads making. When you are passionate about what you do, you would go places. And then try to update yourself as often as possible.

I’m so passionate about beads making, it is in me, I love it and that is why I’m able to do fantastic designs like the ones I have here. In fact, beads making gives me satisfaction. I keep learning on the job every day and then I keep myself busy doing one thing or the other each day. So it is either I’m on a group chat learning something new or I’m training some people or I am in the market buying materials for my designs or even selling by products. Be passionate about what you do and then you would go places.

What vision do you have for your beads making business?

My vision for Ejide Beads is that in the next two years, I want to take over the international market and believe that with hard work, I can get there. In the next two years, I want to have a training school, where I can encourage young talented people to live their dreams. I want to have a school where I can have at least 30 people at once, encouraging them to learn a skill and be on their own. They do not have to wait for the white collar jobs because the jobs are not even there.

What informed the choice of your location?

This is where I have found myself and I love it here because it is a quiet place that gives me the ambience to concentrate on my work. Above all, I believe that with time I would move to somewhere more elaborate and better.

36/COLLAGE

05.05.2017

L-R; Member of the Anniversary Committee, Ambassador Dapo Fafowora; Chairman of the committee, Chief Oluyomi Finnih; Provost of the Church, Very Reverend Adebola Ojofeitimi and Mrs Dolapo Coker during the press conference on the sesquicentennial (150th) anniversary of Cathedral Church of Christ, Marina, Lagos...recently ABIODUN AJALA

L-R: Manager Corporate Affairs, Mr.Ken Boyo, Customer Loyalty Officer,Miss Colette Ukamaka, Managing Director NICON Insurance Limited, Mr. Bayode Samuel, hief of Army Staff, Lt. Gen Tukur Buratai, Deputy General Manager Corporate Affairs, Mr. Kunle Adewale and Head Customer Loyalty, Mrs. Ogechi Iwuh, during a courtesy visit of NICON Insurance Ltd team to the Army Headquarters in Abuja…recently

L – R: Vice Chairman God's Kingdom Society ( The Church of the Living God) Egbe Branch, Mr. David Chiabuotu; Station Minister Lagos Zone Brother Kingsley Iriferi; Station Minister, Warri Zone Brother Patrick Ekireghwo ; Assistant Station Minister Lagos Zone Brother Issac Ennang and Secretary Egbe Branch Mr. Peter Edoja during the Doctrinal Service and Thanksgiving in Lagos…. recently JAMES AGORI

L-R; Chief Mike Ukana, Mrs. Adijat Oyanna, Chief Edward T.Lawani, Mrs. Sonia Egure, and SOD Mayaki, at the Easter get-together by the Eshimozoko Family of Igarra in Lagos...recently .

DAN UKANA

L-R; Chairman TPT International, Adetokunbo Modupe; President African Public Relatons Association, Yomi BadejoOkusanya; ,Shalom Okonmah;the celebrant, Joseph Okonmah,and,President/Chairman Governing Council,NIPR, Dr Rotimi Oladele @ the 50th birthday annivesary of Okonmah in Lagos....recently

L-R: Past District Governor, Rotary Club Nigeria, Dr. Harry Ladapo; acting Chief Medical Director, Dr. Richard Adebayo; All Star President, Rotary Club of Iponri, Dr. Keneth Uwajeh and the incoming District Governor, Dr. Wale Ogunbadejo, during a grand-breaking donation of 1million naira cheque to support mental health intervention,

by Rotary club of Iponri, Lagos…..recently KOLA OLASUPO

Mr. Daniel Tochukwu Kwesiaku and his bride Onyinye Chisom Okoli during their traditional marriage at Umuekwe Village, Orsumoghu, Anambra State... recently

37/PERSPECTIVE

05.05.2017

Ajimobi’s Unrelenting Initiatives to Make Oyo New Economic Hub

Ajimobi

Akin Oyedele That the country’s economy is currently experiencing a downturn, a situation largely precipitated by a reversal of oil fortunes, is no longer news. No thanks to decades of overreliance on a monolithic economy and the utter relegation of agriculture, once the country’s cash cow. Since this reality jolted everybody into retrospection, the federal and state governments have gone back to the drawing board to explore other means of revenue generation aimed at rejigging the floundering economy. Quite unsurprisingly, agriculture, the stone spurned by the country’s builders has now become the capstone of the building, nay the beautiful bride. At the end of a two-day national economic council retreat held in March, last year, it was agreed that each state should make specific commitments to crops in which it has comparative advantage and request Federal Government’s intervention.

As a firm believer in the ability of the country to scale the pervading economic precipice, Oyo State Governor, Senator Abiola Ajimobi, had since the inception of his jinx-breaking second term taken several remedial steps to regenerate the state’s economy. Such pragmatic steps include the repositioning of the state’s Board of Internal Revenue Service to halt the hemorrhage and loopholes within the system. The move was also intended to expand the state’s tax remittance base by capturing companies currently evading this statutory obligation.

The governor also strengthened the Bureau of Investment Promotion and Public Private Partnership to make business easier for prospective investors coming to the state, apart from mulling over granting of tax holiday to core investors. Other incentives being dangled at investors are easy acquisition of land and procurement of Certificate of Occupancy in record time. The end result of these efforts will begin to manifest in the foreseeable future. And this will add fillip to the governor’s determination to grow the state’s internally generated revenue from the current N1.6 billion to about N5 billion in the next three years.

In furtherance of his multipronged approach to buoying the earnings of the state, the governor had embarked on foreign trips, not only to woo investors, but to understudy models that have helped other countries to get out of the mire.

For starters, Oyo State is blessed with a vast landmass measuring 27,249 square kilometres and a population of about 10 million people, among which is a working population of 4.3m.

The state is also proud to be a reservoir of skilled and unskilled labour ready to feed existing and potential industries. The large concentration of agriculture research institutes in Oyo is also a blessing capable of providing the needed intellectual support for the projects, including the renowned International Institute of Tropical Agriculture (IITA).

Agriculture is the main occupation of the people of Oyo State. The climate in the state favours the sustainable cultivation of crops like maize, yam, cassava, millet, rice, plantains, cocoa, palm produce, cashew, soya beans, leafy vegetables, poultry and aquaculture among others, in commercial quantities. In fact, Oyo is the largest producer of cassava in the country, while the state is located in a strategic business hub that serves as a gateway to the Northern and Southern parts of the country.

It is therefore, not fortuitous that the governor had made the exploitation of the agriculture value chain the fulcrum of his second term economic blueprint. Ajimobi is taking the bull by the horns to liberate the state from economic stagnation triggered by the dwindling revenue allocation from the Federation Account.

Last year’s two-day NEC retreat in Abuja had coincided with the inauguration of a major agriculture initiative by the governor, tagged AgricOyo, which suggests that the governor had long before the FG’s initiative envisioned the agriculture rebirth. The initiative is targeted at creating one million direct jobs across the agriculture value chain.

Before the launching, the governor had met separately with large gatherings of key stakeholders at different fora, including traditional rulers who are believed to be custodians of lands, agric experts and investors to harvest their input, ideas and suggestions.

The launching, which was strategically

held at Paago, an agrarian community in Oke Ogun area of the state, attracted investors, outgrowers, beneficiaries, institutional partners, outtakers, traditional rulers, and top officials of the state.

At the event, the governor said that the project would reduce overdependence on oil, create wealth, alleviate poverty, encourage productivity, create jobs and bring about the overall socio-economic uplift of Oyo State.

He told the gathering that farming was very profitable and vowed to do everything possible to make it attractive in Oyo State to diversify the state’s economy.

It was this passion that inspired the governor to lead a delegation to Dublin, the capital and largest city of Ireland, in March, last year.

The trip was principally aimed at partnering investors in the areas of agriculture, tourism, employment generation and regional development strategies, as well as information communication technology (ICT) and business process outsourcing. The choice of Ireland was informed by the country’s status as a leading agricultural exporter. Not only this, Ireland is the second largest exporter of software in the world and a major tourist destination.

The governor’s trip was a follow-up to an earlier one by a delegation from Oyo State to the Irish government in December 2015.

The delegation was then received by a team led by the country’s Minister of Agriculture, Food and the Marine, Mr. Simon Coveney. The discussions then centered on ICT, tourism and agriculture. To further cement the relationship, the Irish Ministry of Agriculture, Sustainable Food Systems Ireland and International Development Ireland Limited, in conjunction with Enterprise Ireland, invited the governor to Dublin last year to explore opportunities for collaboration between the country and Oyo State.

Similarly, in August last year, the new agriculture initiative of the state received a boost with the proposed investment by an Australian agro-processing company, which has since acquired 50 hectares of land in the Oke Ogun area of the state.

The new entrant thus swelled the list of Australian companies that have already entered into partnership agreement with the state government in mining, agriculture, education

and vocational training.

To underscore the preparedness of the company to hit the ground running, the company’s promoters had visited the governor in company with the Australian High Commissioner to Nigeria, Mr. Paul Leymann, in his office.

Lehmann had announced at the meeting that the governor’s earlier visit to Australia had brought about fruitful agreement between his country and the state for mutually beneficial returns.

The envoy said, “The visit of your team to Australia is quite appreciated and we are delighted to assure you that the relationship would enhance development in agriculture, mining and industry in Oyo State.”

In another development, late last year, the state government sealed a partnership agreement with a Chinese conglomerate, China Polaris, estimated at about N636bn ($2bn), for the establishment of a free trade zone for the manufacturing of automotive products, solar power generation, among others.

The first phase of the project comprising five factories and estimated to cost about N159bn ($500m) is expected to commence by the end of the first quarter of 2017, while the entire project has a two-year completion period.

Tagged the ‘Polaris-Pacesetter Free Trade Zone,’ the project occupies a thousand hectares of land along the Lagos-Ibadan Expressway, Ibadan, and has been described by the governor to be 'the new hub of the African economy' when completed.

In his avowed commitment to bequeath a lasting legacy on the state and to leave it more prosperous than he met it, Ajimobi has not taken his foot off the pedal as he continues to crisscross the globe in search of genuine investors that share his vision for the state.

It is expected that as soon as these efforts begin to crystalize, the state economy will be revitalized and the citizens will be better for it. But then, as the saying goes, Rome was not built in a day, indicating that patience and support of the citizens are key factors to the successful implementation of Governor Ajimobi's grand industrialization designs for Oyo State.

Oyedele is Senior Special Assistant (Media) to Oyo State Governor

38/OPINION

05.05.2017

Commitment to Post-Service Welfare: The Lagos State Government’s Example Benson Akintola It is morally reprehensible for any employer to neglect or refuse to plan and cater for the retirement benefits of its employees who gave the prime of their active years to the employing institution.

William A. Ward is credited with the following epigram: “Before you speak, listen. Before you write, think. Before you spend, earn. Before you invest, investigate. Before you criticise, wait.

Before you pray, forgive. Before you quit, try.

Before you retire, save.”

Before the 2004 Federal Pension Reform Act, most state governments and companies in the Federal Republic of Nigeria operated under the Defined Benefits Pension Scheme, popularly referred to as the ‘Pay as You Go’ scheme. This scheme relied on methods that utilised the parameters of length of service to determine the final emoluments of employees. The benefits were thus easily calculated by employees.

Broadly speaking, employees, who had spent five to nine years in service were entitled to a lump sum payment referred to as gratuity, while those who had spent 10 years and more were entitled to both the gratuity and monthly pension payment.

That model woefully failed as a result of the inability or willful refusal of employers to budget for and/or properly utilise funds to service pension obligations.

In the case of the Lagos State Government, it has planned and cater for the retirement benefits of its employees who gave the prime of their active years to the employing institution. The Lagos State Government under the amiable Governor Akinwunmi Ambode has consistently demonstrated its commitment to the post-service welfare of its officers.

The vehicle for demonstrating the commitment of the state has been the Lagos State Pension Commission (LASPEC) which was established as a corporate entity to regulate, supervise and ensure the effective administration of pension matters in the Lagos State public service. The

Ambode

passage of the law itself was in response to the new model and standards of pension administration formulated under the federal Pension Reform Act 2004. Without an iota of doubt, LASPEC has performed brilliantly and commendably in discharging the trust entrusted to its care.

The effective administration of pension matters in the Lagos State public service is an area where the Lagos State Government, through the instrumentality of LASPEC which has demonstrated its virtuous moral compass.

Under the administration of Governor Ambode, in particular, the Lagos State Government has faithfully honoured its obligations under the Lagos State Contributory Pension Scheme Law (“the Law”). Such that, on Friday and just it the State has always done, presentation of bond certificates was made to the 38th batch of retirees from the Lagos State Public Service. This, indeed, is a milestone for our dear Lagos State.

Furthermore, it is a positive history that, the Lagos State Government has been consistently winning the National Pension Commission’s

award for the Best Pensions Compliant State in the Federation. We aim to maintain this rating by continuing and improving on the timely payment of all pensions and other applicable benefits to our retiring workers upon disengagement from service.

LASPEC has also been responsible for the fulfillment of the wider objectives of the Law as espoused under section 4 of the Law. These include the assistance of all persons in the employment of the State Government to save towards their retirement; ensuring that persons who leave or retire from the Public Service of the state receive their terminal or retirement benefits as and when due; establishing and monitoring the adherence to the rules and regulations for the administration and payment of retirement benefits in the Public Service of the state; establishment of the group life policy in respect of death benefits for employees who die while in service; administration of Retirement Bonds for employees with past service benefits; and establishment and maintenance of the Redemption Fund from which the liability of the bond payments would be made.

In the implementation of these schemes by the Lagos State Government through LASPEC, it is on record that successes have been recorded. In spite of the onerous funding obligations under the Contributory Pension Scheme (CPS), the administration of Governor Akinwunmi Ambode has been dogged in meeting the funding obligations.

The state government has never failed to remit monthly contributions into the Retirement Savings Account (RSA) of workers and, as at March, 2017, about N78,592 billion had been credited into employees’ Retirees Savings Accounts maintained by our 10 (Ten) Pension Fund Administrators.

The state has also been consistent in setting aside funds for the payment of accrued rights as provided for in the Pension Reform Law such that the state government has paid accrued pension rights of about N61 billion since the

commencement of the Retirement Benefit Bond Certificate Presentations in 2010. Last week Friday, a total number of 311 retirees will have their RSAs credited with accrued pension rights of N1.6 billion, made up of gratuity and pension benefits under the Defined Benefit scheme for employees who transited into the Defined Contributory Scheme.

With the institution of such elaborate schemes by the state government, it is not surprising that retiring public officers now look forward to retirement with more confidence and joy.

This is how it should be. The state government through LASPEC will continue to ensure that public service retirees not only get what is due to them statutorily, but also continue to receive, through other agencies and programmes further and additional support and assistance that will add value to their lives in retirement.

Among others promises, Governor Ambode in his inaugural speech said: “I shall run an open government of inclusion that will not leave anybody behind. No matter your age, sex, tribe or any other status as long as you reside in Lagos, we will make Lagos work for you.” Thus, Lagos State retirees can take joy in the fact that they are not, and will not be left behind in the scheme of things by the state government under Governor Akinwunmi Ambode.

The retirees have all served in various capacities and sectors to make life better for the people of the state and, in retirement, the state’s commitment is to assist them in making the right choices that will enable the attainment of financial comfort during retirement. They must embrace the joys and challenges of this new phase of life. One thing that will stand you in good stead is the readiness to take advise from competent and reliable sources. In this respect, the retirees are enjoined to contact LASPEC or even the Ministry of Establishments, Training and Pensions should they require clarifications or advice regarding the modalities surrounding their retirement matters.

Akintola, is the Lagos State Commissioner for Establishments, Training and Pensions

LEKANFATODU HEADS-UP

Email lekantodun@yahoo.com

Tel 07058069255

Expelling a Journalist and Other Presidency Blunders Undoubtedly, the last thing President Muhammadu Buhari wants to put up with now are blunders that will bring unnecessary attention to how well he should be performing in managing the country.

But it really appears some of the President’s aides are oblivious of this fact; and of the danger of the failure to oversee the affairs of citizens that are almost completely disillusioned with the government.

The recent report on the expulsion of the State House correspondent of the Punch newspaper, Mr. Olalekan Adetayo, over some stories on the President’s health and the lull in the Presidency which were credited to the journalist and published by the Punch is one of those grave blunders that should have been avoided by the President’s handlers. And that's because such actions will always do more damage than good to the government.

Adetayo was reported to have incurred the anger of Mr. Bashir Abubakar, the President's Chief Security Officer (CSO), for rendering journalistic accounts of the activities in the Presidency under the following headlines in his paper: ‘Seat of power’s event centres going into extinction’ and ‘Fresh anxiety in Aso Rock over Buhari’s poor health’.

The evidently overzealous CSO thought, from his obviously sentimental perspective, that the reporter didn’t do justice to the portrayal of the picture of the events within the seat of power in the reports. He as such thought Adetayo should be severely punished for performing his duties in line with his professional ethics rather than observing the rules and wishes

Buhari

of those in power by serving the public tons of “alternative facts”.

So for Adetayo’s failure to succumb to the desires of the powers-that-be, his press accreditation tag was retrieved and he was expelled from the State House. The CSO further issued strong orders that Adetayo should not be allowed into the State House anymore.

That’s unfortunately, in the CSO’s thinking, the best way to strengthen wrinkles with a journalist; and to feed him with appropriate news items for publication.

That said, the backlash from the wider public on the incident would be a great lesson on the expected conduct from those in government who usually forget that the positions they are holding are at the expense of the general public.

Furthermore, this if one of the instances when the citizens have become so embarrassed by the quality of communication and interactions or the lack of it amongst people serving even in the same government.

Clearly, the reaction of the spokesperson to the president, Mr. Femi Adesina, was suggestive of poor internal communication and exchanges and total disregard for rules and roles amongst the men and women of the President.

Shortly after the incident was made public, Adesina came on his twitter handle to say that the media office of the Presidency was not contacted before the reporter was expelled.

In addition, Adesina said President Buhari was committed to press freedom.

"We weren't consulted in the media office by the CSO before he expelled The Punch reporter. President Buhari is committed to press freedom.

"An amicable solution would be found to The Punch reporter matter. President Buhari does not intend to muzzle the media in any way," he concluded.

The fact is it has long been observed that the officials of this government are seriously struggling to unify their purpose and harmonise their actions. This appalling development has made the government a laughing stock in many quarters and also

fuelled the determination of purveyors of falsehood and merchants of fake news who continue to propagate negative impressions of the government to the detriment of the whole nation.

There’s no doubt that discordant messages and porous communication strategies from the top officials of this government largely contributed to the antics of those spreading fake news on the death of the president while he was away on medical vacation in London.

This disorganisation amongst the officers of President Buhari was also the reason Nigerians were totally confused and their important plans were disrupted due to the conflicting information that was dished out on the travel ban imposed by the new American President, Donald Trump.

While the Senior Special Assistant to the President on Foreign Affairs and Diaspora, Abike Dabiri-Erewa, warned Nigerians at the time that the United States was not a suitable destination for Nigerians, the Minister of Foreign Affairs, Geoffrey Onyeama discredited the advise and insisted that Nigerians should disregard unsolicited advise that was not coming directly from his ministry.

Just imagine! These are people serving in the same government and representing same Nigerians.

Basically, it will ultimately be to the benefit of this government if it's principal officers started paying close attention to avoidable pitfalls that will trouble its over-burdened shoulders and disturb the peace of our president.

T H I S D AY FRIDAY MAY 5, 2017

39

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T H I S D AY • FRIDAY, APRIL 5, 2017

CITYSTRINGS

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

A Royal Visit Adibe Emenyonu writes on the visit of the Benin Monarch, Oba Ewuare II to Auchi kingdom with a message of unity in Edo land

T

he visit was long expected.

Therefore, when the news was sent via all communication channels, the palace of Otaru of Auchi was filled up the next day.

Among the personalities that graced the occasion include the 32 traditional rulers in Edo North senatorial district.

The Otaru of Auchi, His Royal Highness, Alhaji Aliru Momoh Ikelebe III, who played host to Oba Ewuare II, was supported by other traditional rulers from Edo North, among whom were HRM, Alhaji (Dr.) A.Y.E. Dirisu JP, (OON), Okuokpellagbe of Okpella, HRM, Dr. G. O. Egabor OON, Okumagbe of Wappa Wanno, HRM, Alhaji Aliyu K. Danesi, Oba Danesi II, Aiodongie of South-Ibie, HRM, Peter Abalume Osigemeh, Onweweko of Okpekpe, HRH, Alhaji Jackson Dauda A Etohana, Ogieavianwu of Avianwu, HRH, Oba A.A. Obaitan JP, Olososo of Ososo; HRH, Alaji D.Y.E. Kanoba JP, Esiegbai of Ekperi, HRH, Alhaji K.I. Omogbai, Ogieneni of Uzairue; HRH, Oba E.A. Saiki, Otaru of Igarra, HRH, Alhaji S. Elabor, Clan Head of Ivbiaro; HRH, Alhaji Jimah Awudu, Ukor of Iheivbe, alongside others.

Also at the event was the immediate past governor of Edo State, Comrade Adams Oshiomhole; the incumbent deputy governor, Hon. Philip Shuaibu, Hon. Pally Iriase, member, representing Owan Federal Constituency and his other colleagues from the area; the senator representing the zone, Senator Francis Alimikhena, among others.

Auchi is the headquarters of Edo North district. Therefore, the Oba as the paramount ruler of the state, deserves to be revered, more so as he is the permanent Chairman, Edo State Council of Traditional Rulers.

This was why the town of Auchi became agog as people from all walks of life including the lowly, defied the scourging sun and headed to the palace of the Otaru, just to

have a glimpse of his Majesty.

The visit came exactly six months after the coronation of Oba of Benin Kingdom, HRM, Omo N’ Oba N’ Edo Uku Akpolokpolo Ewuare II, who led a delegation of Benin chiefs to the palace of the Otaru of Auchi Kingdom, His Royal Highness, Alhaji Aliru Momoh Ikelebe III, for a thank you visit.

The tour also provided His Royal Majesty, Oba Ewuare II, the opportunity to rub minds with about 32 Edo North traditional rulers.

But to the average inhabitant of the area, the Oba visit was very significant to them in the sense that the visit made them witness the first rain fall of the year. To them therefore, the presence of the Oba of Benin brought them the blessing of the rain.

According to one Mallam Audu, a resident of Auchi, he said they have been praying for rain for a very long time noting that the presence of the Oba of Benin, Oba Ewuare II to Auchi has brought the first rain to the people. “This rain is a blessing,” he said.

Deputy governor of Edo State, Shuaibu, said, “It has been difficult to have rain in this zone. Your presence has brought rain.”

In his speech, Oba Ewuare II said, “Edo North will continue to be blessed with good

Oba Ewaure II who was presented with gifts of two tortoise whose ages were placed at 117 years said he was in Edo North to rally traditional rulers in the area to support his initiative on youth empowerment and job creation

Oba Ewuare II of Benin Kingdom (left) discussing something of interest with his host, Otaru of Auchi, HRH, Alhaji Aliru Momoh Ikelebe III, at the latter’s palace…recently

R-L: Former Information Minister, Prince Tony Momoh, Pro Chancellor University of Jos and Yerima of Auchi Sacreed Kingdom, HRH Alhaji A.Y.E. Dirisu, Okuokpelagbe of Okpella, HRH Oba E.A. Saiki II, JP Otaru of Igarra and the Otaru of Auchi, Alhaji Aliru Momoh

weather and you will be rewarded with good harvest this year.”

Oba Ewaure II who was presented with gifts of two tortoise whose ages were placed at 117 years said he was in Edo North to rally traditional rulers in the area to support his initiative on youth empowerment and job creation.

The Benin monarch urged the traditional rulers to key into the agricultural policies of Governor Godwin Obaseki by making land available to investors when the need arises.

He told them to encourage youths in their

respective domain to go into agriculture for increased food production.

His words, “traditional rulers are encouraged to promote tree planting in their domain for forest regeneration and conserving of the environment.

“The state government is partnering with investors and it’s providing incentives for them in agriculture which will at the long run create employment. Encourage your youths to take advantage of this initiative.

“We are taking steps to restore sanity to our villages and towns by stamping out activities of Community Development

41

T H I S D AY • FRIDAY, APRIL 5, 2017

CITYSTRINGS

Oba Ewuare II (right) discussing with the immediate past governor of Edo State, Mr. Adams Oshiomhole, at the palace of the Otaru of Auchi, when the former paid a thank you visit to traditional rulers in Edo North

R-L; Edo State deputy governor, Mr. Philip Shuaibu and retired Chief Judge of Edo State, Princess Constance Momoh

The Amini masquerades entertaining at the event

Associations. Their activities have been criminalised. Support this crusade and stamp them out of your domains.”

Speaking on behalf of Edo North Traditional Rulers, Otaru of Auchi, HRH Aliyu Momoh, Ikelebe III said they were all in support of Oba Ewaure II initiatives.

Earlier in his welcome address, the Otaru of Auchi described the visit of the Oba of Benin to Edo North as practical characteristics of a visionary leader that no doubt “inspires but cements the bond that hold all Edo people together.”

According to Otaru, “The entire traditional rulers, prominent leaders, son and daughters of Edo North say to you in salutation of prayer, Oba Ghato Kpere-Ise (The king shall live long. Amen)!”

The two tortoise (117 years) presented to Oba Ewuare II during his visit to Otaru of Auchi

The Otaru while recalling the historic and memorable coronation that had remained unequalled in contemporary world because of the glamour, told Oba Ewuare II how grateful they are to God for the world acclaimed most colourful regalia and splendour which can only come from God’s royal crown.

He likened the ascension of the Oba to the world acclaimed historic throne of the Oba’s forebears as part of the coincidence of two most outstanding gentlemen emerging simultaneously on the rulership scene in Edo State and the other being a new governor.

The Auchi monarch noted that both illustrious sons took inheritance of office from the foremost well accomplished and celebrated predecessors, “the first, Omo N’Oba N’Edo

Uku Akpolokpolo, Oba Erediauwa whose ancestral throne you occupy now and the second, the immediate past governor of Edo State, Comrade Adams Oshiomhole who during his tenure demonstrated pursuance of excellence in all works of Edo State.”

The Otaru commended the visionary initiative of the Oba in land administration as most outstanding which he noted is being appreciated not only in the state, but a symbolism for Nigeria, adding that his bold visions as they relate to land administration in the state will take the youths of the state out of life of laziness, strife and inglorious conduct.

The Otaru also urged the Oba to lead the struggle to include functions of traditional rulers in the Nigerian Constitution.

The Otaru while recalling the historic and memorable coronation that had remained unequalled in contemporary world because of the glamour, told Oba Ewuare II how grateful they are to God for the world acclaimed most colourful regalia and splendour which can only come from God’s royal crown

42

T H I S D AY • FRIDAY, MAY 5, 2017

BUSINESS/MONEYGUIDE

Why Eight Banks Avoided CBN FX Ban Nume Ekeghe Transparency, continuous engagement, proper documentation and promptness in sending returns of unutilised foreign exchange (FX) to the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) were main the factors that worked for the eight banks that escaped the apex bank’s sanction from its small and medium enterprises (SMEs) FX window, a banking industry source informed THISDAY yesterday.

The lenders that escaped the banking watchdog’s hammer were Access Bank Plc, Diamond Bank Plc, Fidelity Bank Plc, Heritage Bank, Jaiz Bank, Sterling Bank Plc, Unity Bank Plc and Zenith Bank Plc. But

the following day GTBank, United Bank for Africa Plc and FirstBank were readmitted. Also, yesterday, Stanbic IBTC and Keystone Bank were readmitted.

Speaking on the development, Sterling Bank’s Group Head, Treasury & Financial Institution, Kehinde Wole – Olomojobi, said transparency, continuous engagement and promptness in sending returns of unutilised FX to the CBN worked in favour of the eight banks.

Citing as example Sterling Bank where she just assumed duties, Wole –Olomojobi said the lender usually engaged the CBN to clarify issues and made sure that any FX not utilised were returned immediately to the Apex bank and same

communicated officially.

She said: “What the CBN wants is transparency and professionalism at the highest level.

They want to make sure that you use the FX for the purpose it is meant for and all documentations are complete.

At Sterling Bank, we return the FX we do not need and get the requisite Naira refund from the CBN.” Narrating her previous perception of Sterling Bank as an outsider, Wole –Olomojobi who has garnered over 19 years’ experience in the industry, said she initially perceived Sterling Bank as an ‘old school’ institution but when she became a staff, it was a different thing entirely.

Banks Urged to Diversify Portfolio, Fund MSMEs Obinna Chima The Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) has advised banks and other financial institutions to diversify their portfolios and lend more to the Micro Small and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) sector which is seen as the backbone of the economy.

CBN Governor, Mr. Godwin Emefiele who said this at a three-day Financial Institutions Training Centre (FITC) training programme on “Movable Asset Lending for Financial Institutions in Nigeria,” in Lagos recently, said access to finance was essential for private sector growth and development in any economy and it remains a major constraint to all developing economies like Nigeria.

Emefiele, who was represented by the Registrar, National Collateral Registry (NCR), Mainasara

Muhammad, said in addressing this financing gap, the CBN collaborated with the World Bank / International Finance Corporation (IFC) Group, to established the Secured Transactions and National Collateral Registry.The registry, he said, will improve access to finance for MSMEs while maintaining a strong prudent lending policy and promote Sound Financial System in Nigeria. Also speaking at the event, Managing Director, FITC, Lucy Surhyel Newman, said the IFC and CBN have continued to support FITC in its plans to build competencies in the financial sector. She said that over the recent past five years, IFC has contributed immensely to the competencies of bank directors, FITC staff and associates in terms of corporate governance, board leadership, as well as

the emerging collaboration on Environmental and Social Risk Management (ESRM).“The movable asset financing course, is targeted at heads of credit and risk management; loan portfolio managers/officers, heads of SME Lending, heads of collection/enforcement, loan recovery manager/officers, heads of legal departments, as well as those transiting to such roles in Deposit Money Banks (DMBs), Development Finance Institutions (DFIs), Primary Mortgage Institutions (PMIs) and Infrastructure Banks (IFBs),” she said.

Newman said most stakeholders in the Nigerian financial system and socio-economic studies recognised that MSMEs, are critical to socio-economic development and contribute over 60 percent of GDP in emerging economies.

Shareholders Approve Fidelity Bank Dividend Payout Shareholders of Fidelity Bank Plc yesterday unanimously approved the dividend payout the bank’s management had earlier declared.

The approval was given at the bank’s 29th annual general meeting held in Lagos.

Shareholders of Fidelity Bank Plc are to receive a dividend of N3.9 billion for the year ended December 31, 2016. The dividend translates to 14 kobo per 50 kobo share.

Commenting on the bank’s performance, the National Coordinator Emeritus, Independent shareholders Association of Nigeria, Mr. Sunny Nwosu,

commended the performance of the bank, just as he projected an improved performance this year. ‘‘We are happy that Fidelity Bank is delivering value to shareholders despite the challenges in the environment.

I am sure that with the new chairman, there would continue to be innovation from the bank,” he said.

Reacting to the comments by the shareholders, the Chairman of Fidelity Bank, Mr. Ernest Ebi, pledged that the bank would continue on the path of growth.

He also expressed optimism that with positive developments in the economy, the bank would

perform better this year. Ebi assured the shareholders that the bank would consolidate on its retail banking business.

“The headwinds are gradually going away and we can see light at the end of the tunnel.

With the government now having an Economic Recovery and Growth Plan (ERGP), I think that is good news for businesses.

Consequently, our priority remains to de-risk the business by way of very disciplined risk managemen.

Using our technology, we would drive effective service delivery for our customers in 2017,” he added.

UBA Introduces Mobile Banking Solution In line with its determination to dominate Africa’s mobile banking space with the introduction of cutting edge technology-driven products and services, United Bank for Africa (UBA) Group has introduced a full-fledged banking platform, tagged ‘UBA Magic Banking’ which is enabled by dialling *919# within Nigeria.

The USSD code *919# enables customers to do a multitude of tasks such as: open UBA accounts, transfer funds to UBA and other banks, buy airtime, pay bills and access a mini statement. Speaking about the product, the Bank’s Group

Head, Consumer and Digital Banking, Dr. Adeyinka Adedeji stated: “Not only does this code work on all phone types, it is fast and convenient and does not require data on the phone to send money. It also allows a higher transaction limit of up to N1m per day with the UBA Secure Pass (formerly token).”

Dwelling on the specifics, Adedeji noted that to send money to a UBA account for example, the user should dial *919*3# from their phone number registered with UBA and follow the simple steps prompted by the phone.

Also, by dialing *919*32#, the

customer can send money to a UBA Prepaid Card and to other banks by dialing *919*4#.

You can top up your airtime by dialing *919*Amount# and third party top-up can be done with *919*Phone number*Amount#.

For a full range of services, a customer will dial *919# The Group Managing Director, UBA Plc, Mr. Kennedy Uzoka also noted that the introduction of the new products was in line with the ank’s policy of democratising banking on the continent by reaching out to the unbanked through technology driven platforms that are simple, efficient and user friendly.

MARKET INDICATORS MONEY AND CREDIT STATISTICS

(MILLION NAIRA)

DECEMBER 2016 Broad Money (M2)

23,840,392.42

-- Narrow Money (M1)

11,520,166.67

---- Currency Outside Banks

1,820,415.90

---- Demand Deposits

9,699,750.76

-- Quasi Money

12,320,225.75

Net Foreign Assets (NFA)

9,353,504.03

Net Domestic Assets(NDA)

14,486,888.39

-- Net Domestic Credit (NDC)

26,970,297.97

---- Credit to Government (Net)

4,595,579.89

---- Memo: Credit to Govt. (Net) less FMA

7,436,917.79

---- Memo: Fed. and Mirror Accounts (FMA)

-2,841,337.90

---- Credit to Private Sector (CPS)

22,374,718.08

--Other Assets Net

-12,483,409.58

Reserve Money (Base Money)

5,837,322.41

--Currency in Circulation

2,179,174.28

--Banks Reserves

3,318,344.71 • Source - CBN

MANAGED FUNDS Month

December 2016

Inter-Bank Call Rate

10.39

Minimum Rediscount Rate (MRR) Monetary Policy Rate (MPR)

14.00

Treasury Bill Rate

13.96

Savings Deposit Rate

4.18

1 Month Deposit Rate

8.53

3 Months Deposit Rate

8.80

6 Months Deposit Rate

10.23

12 Months Deposit Rate

10.76

Prime Lending rate

17.09

Maximum Lending Rate

28.55 • Monetary Policy Rate - 13%

OPEC DAILY BASKET PRICE AS AT, WED, 3 MAY 2017 The price of OPEC basket of thirteen crudes stood at $48.34 a barrel on Wednesday, compared with $48.97 the previous day, according to OPEC Secretariat calculations. The OPEC Reference Basket of Crudes (ORB) is made up of the following: Saharan Blend (Algeria), Girassol (Angola), Oriente (Ecuador), Rabi Light (Gabon), Iran Heavy (Islamic Republic of Iran), Basra Light (Iraq), Kuwait Export (Kuwait), Es Sider (Libya), Bonny Light (Nigeria), Qatar Marine (Qatar), Arab Light (Saudi Arabia), Murban (UAE) and Merey (Venezuela).

SOURCE: OPEC headquarters, Vienna

43

T H I S D AY • FRIDAY, MAY 5, 2017

MARKET NEWS

SEC Intervenes in Ikeja Hotels, Appoints Interim Board Goddy Egene and Nosa Alekhuogie The Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) has announced the dissolution of the board of Ikeja Hotels Plc due to unresolved internal crisis involving some majority shareholders of the company.

SEC said in a statement yesterday that this “proactive measure has become necessary in order not to allow the

warring parties take certain actions that would give them an advantage over one another.”

According to the SEC, to forestall chaos in the organisation, the Commission and other distinguished personalities, had previously held various meetings with the existing board towards resolving the crises but the company continues to be plagued with unhealthy corporate governance practices in disregard with the Code

T H E MAIN BOARD

DEALS

MARKET PRICE

of Corporate Governance for public companies. SEC added that as a public company, it is paramount that the activities of the company are conducted within the confines of existing corporate governance regulations in the Nigerian capital market, to ensure the protection of minority shareholders and other investors.

“Having failed to resolve its lingering crisis, the Commission in exercise of the

N I G E R I A N QUANTITY TRADED

STO C K

VALUE TRADED ( N )

Daily Summary as of 22/02/2016 Printed 22/02/2016 14:36:10.010

Daily Summary (Bonds) No Debt Trading Activity Daily Summary (Equities) Activity Summary on Board EQTY AGRICULTURE Crop Production OKOMU OIL PALM PLC. PRESCO PLC Crop Production Totals Livestock/Animal Specialties LIVESTOCK FEEDS PLC. Livestock/Animal Specialties Totals AGRICULTURE Totals CONGLOMERATES Diversified Industries A.G. LEVENTIS NIGERIA PLC. TRANSNATIONAL CORPORATION OF NIGERIA PLC U A C N PLC. Diversified Industries Totals CONGLOMERATES Totals CONSTRUCTION/REAL ESTATE Infrastructure/Heavy Construction JULIUS BERGER NIG. PLC. Infrastructure/Heavy Construction Totals Real Estate Development UACN PROPERTY DEVELOPMENT CO. LIMITED Real Estate Development Totals CONSTRUCTION/REAL ESTATE Totals CONSUMER GOODS Beverages--Brewers/Distillers CHAMPION BREW. PLC. GUINNESS NIG PLC INTERNATIONAL BREWERIES PLC. NIGERIAN BREW. PLC. Beverages--Brewers/Distillers Totals Beverages--Non-Alcoholic 7-UP BOTTLING COMP. PLC. Beverages--Non-Alcoholic Totals Food Products DANGOTE SUGAR REFINERY PLC FLOUR MILLS NIG. PLC. HONEYWELL FLOUR MILL PLC NASCON ALLIED INDUSTRIES PLC N NIG. FLOUR MILLS PLC. TIGER BRANDED CONSUMER GOODS PLC Food Products Totals Food Products--Diversified CADBURY NIGERIA PLC. NESTLE NIGERIA PLC. Food Products--Diversified Totals Household Durables VITAFOAM NIG PLC. Household Durables Totals Personal/Household Products P Z CUSSONS NIGERIA PLC. UNILEVER NIGERIA PLC. Personal/Household Products Totals CONSUMER GOODS Totals FINANCIAL SERVICES Banking ACCESS BANK PLC. DIAMOND BANK PLC ECOBANK TRANSNATIONAL INCORPORATED FIDELITY BANK PLC GUARANTY TRUST BANK PLC. SKYE BANK PLC STERLING BANK PLC. UNITED BANK FOR AFRICA PLC UNION BANK NIG.PLC. UNITY BANK PLC WEMA BANK PLC. Banking Totals Insurance Carriers, Brokers and Services AIICO INSURANCE PLC. CONTINENTAL REINSURANCE PLC CONSOLIDATED HALLMARK INSURANCE PLC LASACO ASSURANCE PLC. AXAMANSARD INSURANCE PLC N.E.M INSURANCE CO (NIG) PLC. UNITY KAPITAL ASSURANCE PLC WAPIC INSURANCE PLC Insurance Carriers, Brokers and Services Totals Micro-Finance Banks NPF MICROFINANCE BANK PLC Micro-Finance Banks Totals Other Financial Institutions AFRICA PRUDENTIAL REGISTRARS PLC CUSTODIAN AND ALLIED PLC FCMB GROUP PLC. STANBIC IBTC HOLDINGS PLC UNITED CAPITAL PLC Other Financial Institutions Totals FINANCIAL SERVICES Totals HEALTHCARE Pharmaceuticals FIDSON HEALTHCARE PLC

powers conferred on it by the Investment and Securities Act, 2007 to protect investors and the integrity of the securities market, hereby approves the appointment of an interim board for the company with Chief Anthony Idigbe, SAN as interim Chairman” SEC said.

Meanwhile, the stock market recorded gains for the fifth consecutive trading session as investors continued to take position in large cap stocks on

6 6 12

30.00 34.00

12,629 11,640 24,269

374,530.15 421,345.20 795,875.35

19 19 31

1.25

1,078,511 1,078,511 1,102,780

1,358,964.30 1,358,964.30 2,154,839.65

5 68 13 86 86

0.77 1.13 20.47

33,500 6,740,423 65,995 6,839,918 6,839,918

25,070.00 7,635,453.96 1,344,425.15 9,004,949.11 9,004,949.11

13 13

41.50

31,970 31,970

1,409,214.78 1,409,214.78

5 5 18

5.20

28,901 28,901 60,871

154,716.48 154,716.48 1,563,931.26

6 24 7 98 135

2.85 118.85 20.00 99.00

190,900 53,000 15,200 429,541 688,641

528,079.00 6,201,924.95 293,757.00 42,728,789.84 49,752,550.79

9 9

168.50

166,476 166,476

28,285,937.95 28,285,937.95

54 38 6 12 1 29 140

5.61 19.00 1.37 6.86 6.65 1.27

2,120,306 314,421 40,000 119,863 433 3,285,739,119 3,288,334,142

11,610,520.13 5,953,792.96 55,716.00 842,442.48 2,736.56 4,074,348,894.07 4,092,814,102.20

11 54 65

17.86 700.00

18,825 98,360 117,185

329,518.50 68,567,962.00 68,897,480.50

11 11

4.46

99,050 99,050

420,455.00 420,455.00

13 21 34 394

21.90 28.00

36,887 133,117 170,004 3,289,575,498

820,034.75 3,737,067.92 4,557,102.67 4,244,727,629.11

82 51 21 25 200 41 16 147 11 15 67 676

4.10 1.49 15.60 1.21 16.70 1.07 1.76 2.95 5.30 0.63 0.98

3,962,506 2,163,396 278,470 790,900 4,847,312 1,969,858 1,204,932 8,586,418 39,752 501,617 5,920,564 30,265,725

16,210,255.82 3,314,106.88 4,136,459.40 958,864.34 80,963,793.44 2,115,552.11 2,087,767.85 25,302,954.71 205,645.40 316,018.71 5,813,502.17 141,424,920.83

14 8 2 3 7 10 1 1 46

0.80 0.90 0.50 0.50 2.06 0.76 0.50 0.50

200,107 276,500 5,004,000 1,000,000 351,540 327,285 37,708,135 10 44,867,577

160,838.67 251,350.00 2,502,000.00 500,000.00 720,728.80 245,325.31 18,854,067.50 5.00 23,234,315.28

1 1

1.08

4,760 4,760

4,950.40 4,950.40

31 7 105 7 20 170 893

2.46 4.00 0.85 14.15 1.31

1,149,464 27,041 31,257,120 38,035 708,255 33,179,915 108,317,977

2,830,722.84 104,002.06 26,613,309.20 537,985.34 931,556.31 31,017,575.75 195,681,762.26

27

2.69

614,065

1,572,223.05

the exchange. Consequently, the Nigerian Stock Exchange AllShare Index (NSE ASI) closed 0.20 per cent higher to settle at 26,166.80, reducing the year-todate decline to 2.6 per cent.

Also, the market capitalisation added N18 billion to close at N9.Investors gained N18.0bn as market capitalization rose to N9.0 5 trillion. The positive close was majorly driven by gains in Nigerian Breweries Plc, Zenith Bank and International

Breweries Plc. A total of 26 stocks advanced while 15 declined. International Breweries Plc led the price gainers with 9.3 per cent trailed by Fidson Healthcare with 9.1 per cent, while NAHCO appreciated by 4.8 per cent.

Conversely, Stanbic IBTC Bank Plc led the price losers with 9.6 per cent, while Unity Bank Plc shed 7.4 per cent. AXA Mansard Insurance Plc went down by 4.5 per cent.

E XC H A N G E

MAIN BOARD GLAXO SMITHKLINE CONSUMER NIG. PLC. MAY & BAKER NIGERIA PLC. NEIMETH INTERNATIONAL PHARMACEUTICALS PLC Pharmaceuticals Totals HEALTHCARE Totals ICT IT Services TRIPPLE GEE AND COMPANY PLC. IT Services Totals ICT Totals INDUSTRIAL GOODS Building Materials ASHAKA CEM PLC BERGER PAINTS PLC CAP PLC CEMENT CO. OF NORTH.NIG. PLC PORTLAND PAINTS & PRODUCTS NIGERIA PLC LAFARGE AFRICA PLC. Building Materials Totals Electronic and Electrical Products CUTIX PLC. Electronic and Electrical Products Totals Packaging/Containers BETA GLASS CO PLC. Packaging/Containers Totals INDUSTRIAL GOODS Totals OIL AND GAS Energy Equipment and Services JAPAUL OIL & MARITIME SERVICES PLC Energy Equipment and Services Totals Integrated Oil and Gas Services OANDO PLC Integrated Oil and Gas Services Totals Petroleum and Petroleum Products Distributors CONOIL PLC ETERNA PLC. FORTE OIL PLC. MOBIL OIL NIG PLC. TOTAL NIGERIA PLC. Petroleum and Petroleum Products Distributors Totals Exploration and Production SEPLAT PETROLEUM DEVELOPMENT COMPANY LTD Exploration and Production Totals OIL AND GAS Totals SERVICES Automobile/Auto Part Retailers R T BRISCOE PLC. Automobile/Auto Part Retailers Totals Courier/Freight/Delivery RED STAR EXPRESS PLC Courier/Freight/Delivery Totals Printing/Publishing LEARN AFRICA PLC Printing/Publishing Totals Transport-Related Services AIRLINE SERVICES AND LOGISTICS PLC NIGERIAN AVIATION HANDLING COMPANY PLC Transport-Related Services Totals Support and Logistics CAVERTON OFFSHORE SUPPORT GRP PLC Support and Logistics Totals SERVICES Totals EQTY Board Totals Daily Summary (Equities) Activity Summary on Board ASeM CONSUMER GOODS Food Products MCNICHOLS PLC Food Products Totals CONSUMER GOODS Totals ASeM Board Totals Daily Summary (Equities) Activity Summary on Board PREMIUM FINANCIAL SERVICES Banking ZENITH INTERNATIONAL BANK PLC Banking Totals Other Financial Institutions FBN HOLDINGS PLC Other Financial Institutions Totals FINANCIAL SERVICES Totals INDUSTRIAL GOODS Building Materials DANGOTE CEMENT PLC Building Materials Totals INDUSTRIAL GOODS Totals PREMIUM Board Totals Equity Activity Totals

DEALS

MARKET PRICE

QUANTITY TRADED

VALUE TRADED ( N)

32 4 6 69 69

25.33 0.94 0.69

551,998 16,020 597,000 1,779,083 1,779,083

13,903,164.18 15,299.40 412,110.00 15,902,796.63 15,902,796.63

1 1 1

1.69

500 500 500

805.00 805.00 805.00

16 9 4 6 10 31 76

24.00 9.30 35.78 8.62 3.36 80.50

110,727 40,229 26,700 142,300 299,900 14,373,223 14,993,079

2,707,053.97 362,501.29 992,680.00 1,227,076.00 966,480.00 1,157,057,077.16 1,163,312,868.42

6 6

1.51

134,500 134,500

204,240.00 204,240.00

5 5 87

50.00

24,529 24,529 15,152,108

1,165,135.50 1,165,135.50 1,164,682,243.92

2 2

0.50

24,262 24,262

12,131.00 12,131.00

90 90

3.47

3,827,573 3,827,573

13,288,632.05 13,288,632.05

21 7 8 21 7 64

18.34 1.84 342.00 150.00 145.00

81,125 100,300 20,300 16,295 13,699 231,719

1,505,034.50 182,832.00 6,595,470.00 2,396,080.60 1,959,692.96 12,639,110.06

33 33 189

318.00

389,934 389,934 4,473,488

124,037,602.56 124,037,602.56 149,977,475.67

1 1

0.50

941 941

470.50 470.50

5 5

3.80

32,870 32,870

127,756.40 127,756.40

13 13

0.89

624,500 624,500

538,430.00 538,430.00

1 22 23

2.29 4.00

4,588 251,094 255,682

10,001.84 1,001,583.80 1,011,585.64

1 1 43 1,811

1.68

10,000 10,000 923,993 3,428,226,216

16,000.00 16,000.00 1,694,242.54 5,785,390,675.15

2 2 2 2

1.21

270,464 270,464 270,464 270,464

327,261.44 327,261.44 327,261.44 327,261.44

306 306

11.45

13,929,679 13,929,679

159,605,439.23 159,605,439.23

278 278 584

3.74

10,438,552 10,438,552 24,368,231

39,515,087.18 39,515,087.18 199,120,526.41

35 35 35 619 2,432

139.83

38,770 38,770 38,770 24,407,001 3,452,903,681

5,304,666.00 5,304,666.00 5,304,666.00 204,425,192.41 5,990,143,129.00

2 2 2 2 2 10 10 10

2,330.00 2.33 6.02 11.09 18.07

3,000 20 20 20 15 3,075 3,075 3,075

6,986,000.00 46.70 120.20 221.80 270.65 6,986,659.35 6,986,659.35 6,986,659.35

Daily Summary (ETP) Exchange Traded Fund Name NEWGOLD EXCHANGE TRADED FUND (ETF) VETIVA BANKING ETF VETIVA CONSUMER GOODS ETF VETIVA GRIFFIN 30 ETF VETIVA INDUSTRIAL ETF Exchange Traded Fund Totals ETF Board Totals ETP Activity Totals

44

T H I S D AY • FRIDAY, MAY 5, 2017

MARKET NEWS

Nigerian Breweries Shareholders Laud Performance, Approve Dividend

Goddy Egene Shareholders of Nigerian Breweries Plc have commended the board and management of the company on the 2016 financial performance that led to the payment of N28.8 billion dividend. The shareholders, who spoke at the 71st annual general meeting (AGM) of the company held in Lagos, noted

that the company’s performance in spite of the challenging operating environment, showed its resilience.

For instance, Chief Sola Abodunrin and Chief Shotunde Shopeju expressed confidence that the company remains in good stead to weather the present storm and deliver good returns to shareholders in the future.

“I congratulate the company for remaining strong even in

A Mutual fund (Unit Trust) is an investment vehicle managed by a SEC (Securities and Exchange Commission) registered Fund Manager.

Investors with similar objectives buy units of the Fund so that the Fund Manager can buy securities that willl generate their desired return.

An ETF (Exchange Traded Fund) is a type of fund which owns the assets (shares of stock, bonds, oil futures, gold bars, foreign currency, etc.) and divides ownership of those assets into shares. Investors can buy these ‘shares’ on the

the storm. The shareholders are happy that the company is always coming up with new initiatives to bring good harvest and returns,” Shopeju said.

Another shareholder, Pastor Williams Adebayo from Abeokuta, Ogun State, congratulated the company for the 70th year anniversary and hailed it for creating jobs for thousands of Nigerians through its local

floor of the Nigerian Stock Exchange.

A REIT (Real Estate Investment Trust) is an investment vehicle that allows both small and large investors to part-own real estate ventures (eg.

Offices, Houses, Hospitals) in proportion to their investments. The assets are divided into shares that are traded on the Nigerian Stock Exchange.

GUIDE TO DATA: Date: All fund prices are quoted in Naira as at 03May-2017, unless otherwise stated

sourcing initiatives.

The proposal for shareholders to receive their either as cash or additional shares was also approved by the shareholders.

Speaking at the meeting, the Chairman of Nigerian Breweries, Chief Kola Jamodu, informed the shareholders that the company has declared a total dividend of N28.2 billion, which translates to N3.58 per share. Shareholders have the

option to choose between a cash payment or the conversion of their dividend to ordinary shares with the approval of the scrip issue.

According to him, the operating environment in 2016 was very challenging especially from an input cost, foreign exchange and purchasing power perspectives.

“Our volume growth was in the mid-single digit region,

coupled with the price increases that we implemented positively impacted our revenue growth.

The positive results we achieved in 2016 were helped in no small measure by our Cost Leadership Agenda through which we focused on being better with revenue management, optimizing costs and a continuous process of consumer value engineering,” he said.

Offer price: The price at which units of a trust or ETF are bought by investors.

Bid Price: The price at which Investors redeem (sell) units of a trust or ETF Yield/Total Return: Denotes the total return an investor would have earned on his investment. Money Market Funds report Yield while others report Year- to-date Total Return.

NAV: is value per share of the real estate assets held by a REIT on a specific date.

DAILY PRICE LIST FOR MUTUAL FUNDS, REITS and ETFS MUTUAL FUNDS / UNIT TRUSTS AFRINVEST ASSET MANAGEMENT LTD aaml@afrinvest.com Web: www.afrinvest.com; Tel: +234 1 270 1680 Fund Name Bid Price Offer Price Yield / T-Rtn Afrinvest Equity Fund 137.92 138.63 8.66% Nigeria International Debt Fund 223.52 224.52 3.91% ALTERNATIVE CAPITAL PARTNERS LTD info@acapng.com Web: www.acapng.com, Tel: +234 1 291 2406, +234 1 291 2868 Fund Name Bid Price Offer Price Yield / T-Rtn ACAP Canary Growth Fund 0.71 0.72 1.98% AIICO CAPITAL LTD ammf@aiicocapital.com Web: www.aiicocapital.com, Tel: +234-1-2792974 Fund Name Bid Price Offer Price Yield / T-Rtn AIICO Money Market Fund 100.00 100.00 17.17% ARM INVESTMENT MANAGERS LTD enquiries@arminvestmentcenter.com Web: www.arm.com.ng; Tel: 0700 CALLARM (0700 225 5276) Fund Name Bid Price Offer Price Yield / T-Rtn ARM Aggressive Growth Fund 12.58 12.96 1.86% ARM Discovery Fund 295.66 304.57 2.95% ARM Ethical Fund 22.55 23.23 0.94% ARM Money Market Fund 1.00 1.00 15.84% AXA MANSARD INVESTMENTS LIMITED investmentcare@axamansard.com Web: www.axamansard.com; Tel: +2341-4488482 Fund Name Bid Price Offer Price Yield / T-Rtn AXA Mansard Equity Income Fund 112.74 113.54 7.19% AXA Mansard Money Market Fund 1.00 1.00 17.33% CHAPELHILL DENHAM MANAGEMENT LTD investmentmanagement@chapelhilldenham.com Web: www.chapelhilldenham.com, Tel: +234 461 0691 Fund Name Bid Price Offer Price Yield / T-Rtn Chapelhill Denham Money Market Fund 100.00 100.00 0.00% Paramount Equity Fund 10.01 10.27 6.96% Women's Investment Fund 88.88 91.15 5.06% CORDROS ASSET MANAGEMENT LIMITED assetmgtteam@cordros.com Web: www.cordros.com, Tel: 019036947 Fund Name Bid Price Offer Price Yield / T-Rtn Cordros Money Market Fund 100.00 100.00 18.14% FBN CAPITAL ASSET MANAGEMENT LTD invest@fbnquest.com Web: www.fbnquest.com; Tel: +234-81 0082 0082 Fund Name Bid Price Offer Price Yield / T-Rtn FBN Fixed Income Fund 1,065.58 1,066.69 5.50% FBN Heritage Fund 115.90 116.69 3.87% FBN Money Market Fund 100.00 100.00 17.51% FBN Nigeria Eurobond (USD) Fund - Institutional $107.77 $108.58 4.75% FBN Nigeria Eurobond (USD) Fund - Retail $107.43 $108.25 5.14% FBN Nigeria Smart Beta Equity Fund 117.66 119.14 4.40% FIRST CITY ASSET MANAGEMENT LTD fcamhelpdesk@fcmb.com Web: www.fcamltd.com; Tel: +234 1 462 2596 Fund Name Bid Price Offer Price Yield / T-Rtn Legacy Equity Fund 1.02 1.04 9.57% Legacy Short Maturity (NGN) Fund 2.70 2.70 5.18% FSDH ASSET MANAGEMENT LTD coralfunds@fsdhgroup.com Web: www.fsdhaml.com; Tel: 01-270 4884-5; 01-280 9740-1 Fund Name Bid Price Offer Price Yield / T-Rtn Coral Growth Fund 2,268.30 2,295.64 2.69% Coral Income Fund 2,225.94 2,225.94 5.78% GREENWICH ASSET MANAGEMENT LIMITED assetmanagement@gtlgroup.com Web: www.gtlgroup.com ; Tel: +234 1 4619261-2 Fund Name Bid Price Offer Price Yield / T-Rtn Greenwich Plus Money Market Fund 100.00 100.00 17.45% INVESTMENT ONE FUNDS MANAGEMENT LTD enquiries@investment-one.com Web: www.investment-one.com; Tel: +234 812 992 1045,+234 1 448 8888 Fund Name Bid Price Offer Price Yield / T-Rtn Abacus Money Market Fund 1.00 1.00 17.09% Vantage Balanced Fund 1.79 1.81 6.47% Vantage Guaranteed Income Fund 1.00 1.00 17.47%

LOTUS CAPITAL LTD fincon@lotuscapitallimited.com Web: www.lotuscapitallimited.com; Tel: +234 1-291 4626 / +234 1-291 4624 Fund Name Bid Price Offer Price Yield / T-Rtn Lotus Halal Investment Fund 1.02 1.04 3.56% Lotus Halal Fixed Income Fund 1,019.39 1,019.39 3.63% MERISTEM WEALTH MANAGEMENT LTD info@meristemwealth.com Web: http://www.meristemwealth.com/funds/ ; Tel: +234 1-4488260 Fund Name Bid Price Offer Price Yield / T-Rtn Meristem Equity Market Fund 10.14 10.21 4.88% Meristem Money Market Fund 10.00 10.00 16.30% PAC ASSET MANAGEMENT LTD info@pacassetmanagement.com Web: www.pacassetmanagement.com/mutualfunds; Tel: +234 1 271 8632 Fund Name Bid Price Offer Price Yield / T-Rtn PACAM Balanced Fund 1.10 1.12 11.47% PACAM Fixed Income Fund 10.56 10.62 1.58% PACAM Money Market Fund 10.00 10.00 16.87% SCM CAPITAL LIMITED info@scmcapitalng.com Web: www.scmcapitalng.com; Tel: +234 1-280 2226,+234 1- 280 2227 Fund Name Bid Price Offer Price Yield / T-Rtn SCM Capital Frontier Fund 114.46 115.44 12.44% SFS CAPITAL NIGERIA LTD investments@sfsnigeria.com Web: www.sfsnigeria.com, Tel: +234 (01) 2801400 Fund Name Bid Price Offer Price Yield / T-Rtn SFS Fixed Income Fund 1.29 1.29 3.62% STANBIC IBTC ASSET MANAGEMENT LTD assetmanagement@stanbicibtc.com Web: www.stanbicibtcassetmanagement.com; Tel: +234 1 280 1266; 0700 MUTUALFUNDS Fund Name Bid Price Offer Price Yield / T-Rtn Stanbic IBTC Balanced Fund 1,890.71 1,900.48 3.23% Stanbic IBTC Bond Fund 157.12 157.12 2.05% Stanbic IBTC Ethical Fund 0.79 0.80 3.25% Stanbic IBTC Guaranteed Investment Fund 196.30 196.30 5.04% Stanbic IBTC Iman Fund 132.70 134.52 2.25% Stanbic IBTC Money Market Fund 100.00 100.00 18.03% Stanbic IBTC Nigerian Equity Fund 7,561.18 7,646.38 -0.31% UNITED CAPITAL ASSET MANAGEMENT LTD unitedcapitalplcgroup.com Web: www.unitedcapitalplcgroup.com; Tel: +234 803 306 2887 Fund Name Bid Price Offer Price Yield / T-Rtn United Capital Balanced Fund 1.16 1.18 8.88% United Capital Bond Fund 1.28 1.28 15.74% United Capital Equity Fund 0.66 0.67 0.80% United Capital Money Market Fund 1.11 1.11 11.71% ZENITH ASSETS MANAGEMENT LTD info@zenith-funds.com Web: www.zenith-funds.com; Tel: +234 1-2784219 Fund Name Bid Price Offer Price Yield / T-Rtn Zenith Equity Fund 10.47 10.66 8.49% Zenith Ethical Fund 11.58 11.70 6.04% Zenith Income Fund 17.68 17.68 6.97%

REITS

NAV Per Share

Yield / T-Rtn

11.41 126.01

1.01% 1.65%

Bid Price

Offer Price

Yield / T-Rtn

8.11 75.63

8.21 77.03

-7.59% -0.21%

Fund Name FSDH UPDC Real Estate Investment Fund SFS Skye Shelter Fund

EXCHANGE TRADED FUNDS

Fund Name Lotus Halal Equity Exchange Traded Fund Stanbic IBTC ETF 30 Fund

VETIVA FUND MANAGERS LTD Web: www.vetiva.com; Tel: +234 1 453 0697

Fund Name Vetiva Banking Exchange Traded Fund Vetiva Consumer Goods Exchange Traded Fund Vetiva Griffin 30 Exchange Traded Fund Vetiva Industrial Goods Exchange Traded Fund Vetiva S&P Nigeria Sovereign Bond Exchange Traded Fund

funds@vetiva.com Bid Price

Offer Price

Yield / T-Rtn

2.86 6.17 12.15 16.98 135.90

2.90 6.25 12.25 17.78 137.90

3.93% -12.16% 1.23% 8.29% 4.60%

The value of investments and the income from them may fall as well as rise. Past performance is a guide and not an indication of future returns. Fund prices published in this edition are also available on each fund manager’s website and FMAN’s website at www.fman.com.ng. Fund prices are supplied by the operator of the relevant fund and are published for information purposes only.

FRIDAY MAY 5, 2017 • T H I S D AY

INTERNATIONAL

45

CHANGE OF NAME email:foreigndesk@thisdaylive.com

Prince Philip to Step Down from Carrying Out Royal Engagements The Duke of Edinburgh is retiring from royal duties this autumn, Buckingham Palace has announced.

Prince Philip, who turns 96 in June, made the decision himself and the Queen supported him, a spokesman said.

“I’m sorry to hear you’re standing down”, one man told him at a royal lunch on Thursday. “Well, I can’t stand up much,” the duke quipped.

The duke will attend already

scheduled engagements between now and August but will not accept new invitations.

The Queen “will continue to carry out a full programme of official engagements”, the palace said.

The duke carried out 110 days of engagements in 2016, making him the fifth busiest member of the royal family, according to Court Circular listings.

He is patron, president or a member of more than 780 organisations and will continue to be associated with them, but “will no longer play an active role by attending engagements”, Buckingham Palace said.

In the statement, the spokesman said the duke “may still choose to attend certain public events from time to time”.

Hours after the announcement,

French Election: Macron Takes Action over Offshore Claims The French presidential race frontrunner, Emmanuel Macron, has filed a lawsuit over online rumours that he has a secret bank account in the Caribbean.

The news came after the centrist, pro-EU candidate was regarded as having come out on top in the final TV debate ahead of Sunday’s run-off vote.

His far-right adversary, Marine Le Pen, referred to the claims in the debate.

Mr Macron’s lawsuit targets right-wing websites.

“We will not hesitate to prosecute for defamation anyone who repeats this false information,” an aide to Mr Macron told AFP news agency.

During Wednesday night’s

televised debate, Ms Le Pen referred to the online claims.

“I hope that we will not find out that you have an offshore account in the Bahamas,” she said to Mr Macron, the centrist, pro-EU candidate.

He replied: “That is slander.”

Judicial sources quoted by AFP said prosecutors in Paris had opened an investigation following a complaint from Mr Macron.

Speaking on French radio on Thursday, Mr Macron said the “fake news and lies” were from “sites, some of which were linked to Russian interests”.

His supporters say some of the sites have supported US President Donald Trump.

Mr Macron and Ms Le Pen traded insults for more than two hours, arguing over terrorism, the economy and Europe.

Ms Le Pen lambasted him on his record as economy minister in the Socialist government - a post he quit to form his En Marche! movement.

The National Front candidate accused him of being “the candidate of savage globalisation” and said his version of France “is a trading room, where it will be everyone fighting for themselves”.

In turn, Mr Macron said Ms Le Pen had openly lied, proposed nothing and exaggerated the concerns of the public.

Prince Philip was at his 26th public engagement of 2017: a service and lunch for members of the Order of Merit at St James’s Palace.

At the reception, the duke quipped to mathematician Sir Michael Atiyah that he “can’t stand up much”.

CHANGE OF NAME I formerly known and addressed as ANYALECHI OLUCHI ANESTECIA, now wish to be known and addressed as ECHEREBO OLUCHI ANESTESCIA. All former documents remain valid. The general public should take note.

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The general public should take note.

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46

T H I S D AY FRIDAY MAY 5, 2017

T H I S D AY FRIDAY MAY 5, 2017

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48

T H I S D AY • FRIDAY, MAY 5, 2017

WORLD OF ISLAM

Edited by: MJO Mustapha Email deji.mustapha@thisdaylive.com

Shaban a Time of Avoidance of Heedlessness Sadullah Khan/IslamiCity

Sha’ban is the eight month of the Islamic lunar calendar; the month that precedes Ramadan. The literal meaning of the word Shaban is something that is successively developing or uninterruptedly increasing. This is a month in which the Prophet incessantly fasted.

Many are Oblivious of the Value of this month ‘A’ishah, the wife of the Prophet (pbuh) said, “I never saw the Prophet fasting (voluntary) fast more in any other month than that of Shaban. He used to fast throughout the month.” [Al-Bukhari]When the Prophet was asked why fasted so much in Sha’ban; the Prophet replied; “There is a month between Rajab and Ramadan of which many people are neglectful; it is the month in which deeds are raised (for evaluation) to the Lord of the universe, and I love to be in a state of fasting when my deeds are taken up for evaluation.” [an-Nisa’i] From this hadith we learn that …

• the Prophet fasted consistently in Shaban. The reason for that fast being that deeds are elevated for evaluation, • and the best condition to have one’s deeds evaluated is in a state of fasting.

Here we keep in mind the words of the Prophet pertaining to the special nature of the ‘ibadah of siyam/fasting; “Every deed of a human being is for himself except fasting; it is for me and I will personally reward that”. [al-Bukhari] We also made to realize the importance of recognizing our accountability for our deeds. Each of us need to reflect on the verse; ”O You who proclaim Faith! Be sincerely dutiful to Allah, and carefully consider what you have sent forth for the morrow. Be sincerely conscious of Allah, for surely Allah is well-informed of all your deeds.

[Qur’an 59:18] Historical Events on the 15th of Sha’ban: 1. The Qiblah or direction for salah was changed from Masjid-ul Aqsa (in Jerusalem) to the “Ka’bah” at Masjid-ul-Haram (in Makkah) two years after hijrah

on the 15th of Shaban.

2. There is tradition/hadith documented in the Sunan of ibn Majah and the Musnad of Imam Ahmed bin Hanbal, which is not of the highest degree of authenticity; in which an incident occurred on the 15th night of Shaban in the Prophet’s time while he was in Madinah. The Prophet’s wife, ‘Aishah narrates that she woke up in the middle of the night and found the Prophet away from home. She looked for him and found him at the graveyard and upon being questioned by her, he said that this the night that Allah forgives; hence the name Layla-tul Bara’ah (Night of Forgiveness). Though this incident is reported in a weak tradition; there are undoubtedly authentic ahadith that testify to the significance of Nisf Sha’ban.

Reference to Nisf Sha’ban in authentic narrations Let us reflect on one such authentic hadith regarding Nisf Sha’ban and consider the lessons we learn from it.

The companion Mu‘ath ibn Jabal narrated that the Prophet, (pbuh) said: “On the night of mid-Shaban, Allah looks at His creation and forgives all of them except for the polytheist and the quarrelsome or hateful person.” [At-Tabrani] [Classed as sahih by foremost Salafi hadith scholar, Shaykh Nasiruddin Albani in his Silsilah Al-Sahahah] Three things we gather from authentic hadath regarding Nisf Shaban 1. There is definitely a significance to the night as the Prophet particularly mentioned it. Little wonder that among the many great scholars who have emphasized the significance of Nisf Shaban include Imam al-Shafi’, Imam al-Awza’i, Imam Suyuti, Imam ibn Taymiyah (in his Majmoo’ al-Fatawa ibn Taymiyah and Iqtida’ al-sirat al-mustaqim ) and Imam Nawawi.

2. The second point to note is the forgiveness of Allah. We acknowledge the words of the Prophet, “All human beings commit wrong and the best of those who sin are those who repent. [Tirmidhi]. We are thus reminded in the Qur’an… ” Ask your Lord to forgive you your sins, and turn towards Him in repentance, for surely, my Lord is a Dispenser of Grace, Most

Loving.” [Q 11:88-90] Therefore, let us all heed the promise and the invitation of the Divine...

“O my Servants who have transgressed against their souls! Despair not of the Mercy of Allah, for Allah forgives all sins: for He is Oft-Forgiving, Most Merciful. [Q 39:53] Besides asking forgiveness, let us also be forgiving; “If you pardon, reconcile and forgive; surely Allah is Most Forgiving, Most Merciful.” [Qur’an 64:14] 3. The third point referred to in the hadith is the warning to neither be mushrik nor mushaHin. Shirk: We are reminded in surah Luqman, that “shirk is indeed a tremendous wrong” [Q 31:13] and we are further warned in surah an-Nisa’ that “Allah forgives all sins except shirk, for shirk is a most sinful forgery.” [Q 4:48] There are basically two categories of shirk: 1. Shirk-ul-Akbar - major shirk, which entails associating or equating anything in any way to Allah.

2. Shirk-ul-Asghar - minor shirk. The Prophet (pbuh) said; “Of the fear I have the most fearful is that you will engage in shirk-ul-asghar.” He was asked what is shirk-ul-asghar, he replied “doing things for show”.

[Musnad Ahmed] Ikhlas - sincerity is thus essential for any action. As the Prophet said “Actions are judged by intentions”.

Sincere intention thus supersedes any action, because there could be ostentation or ulterior motives in an outward action. The Prophet thus reminded us that, “Allah does not judge you by your physicality or your appearances; He rather looks at (the sincerity of) your heart and (the goodness of) your deeds. [Muslim] The Prophet also said; “Successful indeed are those who are sincere in faith, whose hearts are pure, whose tongues are truthful, who have inner contentment and whose character is upright.”[Musnad Ahmed] MushaHin: We are also warned in the hadith not to be of the mushaHin; that is, those who are excessively argumentative and hateful. Allah says in the Qur’an .

“Among people there are those whose talks about affairs of the world may impress you, and they call Allah to witness what is in their hearts, yet they are severely argumentative. [Qur’an 2:204].

Prophet Muhammad (pbuh) thus warned, The most disliked of people on the estimation of Allah are those most argumentative. [Bukhari].

Reflect a Culture of Kind Consideration So let us avoid argumentation, harbor no hate and rather be more loving. Wise ones have said; “imbue yourselves with the qualities of Allah”. The qualities of the Divine and those characteristics pleasing to the Divine are indeed the best qualities to imbibe and to nurture. Allah is al-Wadad - Most Loving and a believer should imbibe these qualities and manifest it at a human level. It is in this spirit that our beloved Prophet (pbuh) advised; The Prophet said, The peak of reasoning after accepting faith in the Divine is being affectionate towards people, and doing good to others, irrespective of their being pious or sinful. [Bayhaqi] Take heed of the lessons of Shaban Our learned admonish us; Rajab has passed and Shaban has entered; successful are those who successfully prepared themselves with proximity to Allah in Rajab for Ramadan; but now that Shaban has entered, people are heedless/neglectful.

On the night of Nisf Shaban, leading to the special month of Ramadan; let us acknowledge that the right thing to do is always the best thing to do. Let us do all forms of good with the best of intentions; and avoid any form of evil in all of its dimensions. Realize that our deeds are evaluated and that we will be held accountable. Let us not be argumentative and hateful, let us rather be loving and compassionate. In keeping with the name of Shaban, the ever increasing, May Allah increase us in goodness and heed the Prophetic advice (as documented by Tibrani); “Do not engage in any act unless it is good; do not say anything unless it is beneficial.”

FRIDAY MAY 5, 2017 • T H I S D AY

49

NEWS

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

Shell to Invest $25bn in Nigeria, Others Kachikwu: No interest charges incurred on unpaid cash calls

Chineme Okafor Royal Dutch Shell has announced it will invest an estimated $25 billion this year in all its oil and gas operation across the world, including Nigeria.

It also said it was expecting to generate $10 billion in cash flow from the delivery of some of its new projects by 2018.

The company stated this in its first quarter 2017 financial results released yesterday. The report also showed that Shell netted an income of $2.2 billion during the quarter under review.

Shell, with operations in more than 70 countries, is Nigeria’s oldest oil producing partner, holding various joint venture and production sharing contracts with the Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation (NNPC) and other foreign oil companies.

The company only recently announced the resumption of oil production at its 225,000 barrels per day (bd) Bonga Floating Production Storage and Offloading (FPSO) field in Nigeria’s deepwaters.

According to the company, which is also involved in a new deepwater project – the $13.5 billion Zabazaba deepwater project located in Oil Prospecting Lease (OPL) 245 – the repair of Bonga would ensure sustained production and reduce unscheduled production deferments.

The company’s net profit, it said, doubled in the first three months of 2017, as rebounding oil prices and refining gains helped boost its revenue.

According to the report, Shell generated a cash flow of $9.5 billion in the quarter, up 13

fold from a year earlier, and the strongest among some of its rivals in the industry.

“We saw notable improvements in upstream and chemicals, which benefited from improved operational performance and better market conditions,” said Shell’s chief executive, Ben van Beurden.

Meanwhile, the Minister of State for Petroleum Resources, Dr. Ibe Kachikwu, has disclosed that beyond the discount secured

by the country on the $5.1 billion joint venture cash call debt it owes international oil companies (IOCs), it also got an interest charge waiver for the five-year period it would take it to repay the debt.

Kachikwu stated this in an interaction with journalists at the 2017 edition of the annual Offshore Technology Conference (OTC) in Houston Texas.

He said: “The Federal Executive Council (FEC) had

approved the ministry’s proposal and the concurrence of the National Economic Council (NEC) had been obtained to begin payments and the ministry on behalf of NNPC engaged the IOCs and secured a discount of 25 per cent with each JV partner on the pre-2016 cash call arrears resulting in a final settlement in the sum of $5.1 billion payable from incremental production from the JV assets over a five-year tenor without

any interest charges during the period.

“In addition, the 25 per cent discount will not qualify for tax deductions. The sustainable funding of the JVs will lead to an increase in national production from the current 2.2mbpd to 2.5mbpd by 2019, while the immediate effect of the new cash call policy will increase net federal government revenue per annum by about $2 billion.”

FG Appoints Lufthansa, Five Others Advisers on Establishment of National Carrier The federal government has appointed advisers to help it set up a national airline and develop its aviation infrastructure - currently seen as a barrier to economic growth - to create a hub for West Africa, the Minister of State for Aviation, Hadi Sirika said on Wednesday.

Sirika said a group of six firms including German carrier Lufthansa would advise the government on setting up an airline, an aviation leasing company and a maintenance hanger, and on creating concessions to run the country’s airports.

A cabinet meeting chaired by Vice President, Yemi Osinbajo, had approved N1.52 billion ($4.99 million) of funding for the project, he added.

President Muhammadu Buhari, who promised a national airline when campaigning for election, did not attend the weekly meeting, fuelling concerns about the state of his health.

Decades of neglect and lack of investment have left

Nigeria with low-quality infrastructure that is seen as a hurdle to prosperity and the government has already said that upgrading it will require private investment.

The government set up a committee on establishing a national airline in 2015, in fulfillment of the campaign promises which brought Buhari’s All Progressives Congress (APC) to power.

An APC transition paper seen by Reuters in 2015 had proposed merging a dozen debtladen airlines on the books of state-owned “bad bank” Asset Management Corporation of Nigeria (AMCON) into a single carrier that would partner with a global airline to serve the West and Central African region.

The single carrier would include Nigeria’s biggest airline, Arik Air, which AMCON took over in February.

AMCON has said it has no plans to convert Arik into a national carrier and that the government has no interest in doing so other than to ensure that the airline continues to fly.

Nigerien President Reschedules Visit to Buhari The President of Niger Republic, Mahamadou Issoufou, has rescheduled his proposed visit to President Muhammadu Buhari.

A statement issued by the Special Adviser to the President on Media and Publicity, Mr. Femi Adesina, last night indicated that the re-scheduling was at the instance of the visiting president.

“The visit of President Issoufou of Niger Republic to President Buhari scheduled for Friday, May 5, 2017, has been put forward.

“The rescheduling is at the instance of President Issoufou

who has another domestic engagement,’’ the release said.

The statement, according to the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN), said all arrangements had been concluded for President Buhari to receive his Nigerien counterpart and his delegation at the forecourt of the Presidential Villa.

It added that the delegation and host had intended to attend the Juma’at prayers together as well as lunch before the lastminute postponement.

The statement said a new date for the visit would be announced in due course.

TRADE DELEGATION VISITS...

L-R: Parliamentary Vice Minister for Foreign Affairs, Japan, Shunsuke Takei; Minister of Finance, Mrs. Kemi Adeosun; and Japan’s Chief Executive Officer for Europe, Middle East and Africa, Masahiro Kuwahara, during the official visit of Japanese trade and investment groups to the minister in Abuja....yesterday Enock Reuben

Kogi Court Sentences Two Cattle Rustlers to Death by Hanging Yekini Jimoh in Lokoja Two kingpins of a notorious cross border cattle rustling syndicate, Muhammed Laal Jauro and Yusuf Sanni, have been sentenced to death by hanging by the High Court of Kogi State sitting in Okene.

The two convicts were charged yesterday before Hon. Justice Josia Majebi of the Okene division of the High Court of Justice on a four-count of criminal conspiracy to commit armed robbery, criminal conspiracy to commit criminal homicide and culpable homicide, all of which contravene sections of Penal Code.

Justice Majebi found the cattle rustlers guilty on all the four-count charge despite their plea of non-

guilty to the offences.

The prosecution witnesses had told the court that sometimes in January, 2006, one Dauda Abdullahi made a report of the gruesome murder and theft of the cows of one Haruna in one of the farm centres in Okene.

He also told the court that upon further investigation, the accused persons were arrested at Ajase-Ikpo in Kwara State while their leader, Awaijo Wetti, was still at large as at the time of the prosecution.

He said the convicts admitted committing the offences together with the said leader when they narrated how they regrouped and subsequently macheted their victim to death in his farm and

eventually stole his cows which they took to Ajase-Ikpo before they were apprehended.

The first accused person, Muhammed Lawal Jauro’s confessional statement which was corroborated by the second, Yusuf Sanni, was relied upon by the court to arrive at its verdict.

They both stated how they and their other gang members conspired to commit the crime in December 2015.

Consequently, the court sentenced them to 28 years each on the first three counts and sentenced them to death by hanging on the fourth charges of culpable homicide.

“By the said pieces of evidence, I hold that the prosecution has satisfactorily established the death

of the deceased and that same was caused by the accused persons.

I hold that the prosecution has proved all the ingredients of each of the heads of charge against the accused persons thereby raising presumption of guilt against them in respect of all the heads of charge.

“It will amount to flying in the face of the evidence before the court to believe the story of the accused persons that they have no knowledge of the commission of the offences and the exhibits tendered except their handsets.

To believe same is to believe the holiness of a Bishop hanging a talisman on his neck,” said Justice Majebi while pronouncing the court’s verdict.

Despite Listing on Order Paper, Senate C’ttees Fail to Lay 2017 Budget Damilola Oyedele in Abuja The Senate Committees on Appropriation and Finance yesterday failed to lay the 2017 budget, despite listing it on yesterday’s Order Paper.

Listed as item one, under the presentation of reports section, the Chairman of the Appropriation Committee, Senator Danjuma

Goje (Gombe Central), and his finance counterpart, Senator John Enoh (Cross River Central), were scheduled to lay the report of the Joint Committee on Appropriation and Finance on the Appropriation Bill 2017.

The Leader of the Senate, Senator Ahmed Lawan, said the Senate committees were meeting with the counterparts in the House

of Representation, while plenary was going on in both chambers, to harmonise and make some final adjustments to the budget document.

“I have also equally been informed that, by the grace of God, definitely, the 2017 Budget will be laid next Tuesday. Having said this, Mr. President, distinguished

colleagues, I will move that we stand down presentation of this report to Tuesday, the next legislative day,” Lawan said.

Presiding, the Deputy Senate President, Senator Ike Ekweremadu, noted that the budget report was billed to be laid ahead of consideration, yesterday.

He appealed to Nigerians for understanding.

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President’s Long Sick Leave Fuels Power Grab Fear The Nigerian leader’s absence yesterday from his third cabinet meeting in as many weeks has heightened fears about his health and whether close allies might

be profiting from his illness.

President Muhammadu Buhari, 74, has barely been seen since returning in March from seven weeks of medical leave in

FG Inaugurates FRC Board, Seeks Improved World Bank Ranking Olawale Ajimotokan in Abuja The Minister of Industry, Trade and Investment, Dr. Okechukwu Enelamah, yesterday inaugurated the Board of the Financial Reporting Council of Nigeria (FRC).

The board is made up of 23 members and has Adedotun Sulaiman as the Chairman and Daniel Asapokhai as the Executive Secretary/CEO. Enelamah said the reconstitution of the council was significant given the critical role of the FRC in ensuring that economic agents in Nigeria produce and publish high quality financial information that underpin the efficient working of the capital markets and the overall economy.

President Muhammadu Buhari had on January 9, 2017, appointed Sulaiman and Asapokhai to work with a new board that would chart a new direction for FRC towards effective and efficient delivery of the council’s mandates.

FRC is responsible for developing and publishing accounting and financial reporting standards to be observed in the preparation of financial statements of public entities in Nigeria.

Its duty is also to ensure the highest standards among auditors and other professionals engaged in the financial reporting process and enhance the credibility of financial reporting.

“The inauguration of a new FRC board will help restore full board oversight to the council and thereby enable the organization to carry out its mandates more effectively,” Enelamah said.

The minister reiterated Nigeria’s desire to create an enabling environment for investment, saying government is irrevocably committed to moving Nigeria up at least 20 places in the global Ease of Doing Business Rankings conducted by World Bank and attaining the 100th position by the time the mandate of the present government terminates in 2019.

Nigeria made the top 100 ranking but has since slid down the pecking order as it is presently ranked 169.th Enelamah said investors would only take the country seriously if there is marked improvement in its ease of doing business rating which is tied to an environment that gives investors and other stakeholders increased confidence that their interests are protected.

Sulaiman, who expressed gratitude to the president for appointing him, said the council would raise the quality of financial reporting and corporate governance international benchmark.

He said the FRC, going forward, would be more consultative, less belligerent and less controversial in the discharge of its statutory duty without being any less firm, assertive, authoritative and effective.

London, where he was treated for an unspecified illness.

His wife, Aisha, played down the extent of her husband’s health problems in a series of tweets on Tuesday night in which she said that his “health is not as bad as it’s being perceived” and that he “continues to carry out his responsibilities.”

Despite Mrs Aisha Buhari’s reassurances, the president failed to attend the meeting of the federal executive council, which was held as usual within walking distance of the presidential villa.

“All he is doing is following his doctors’ advice to rest enough,” Lai Mohammed, the information minister, said.

On his return from Britain Mr Buhari said that he had never been so ill and alluded to having had a blood transfusion, but further details about his condition remain closely guarded. He has now missed three successive

cabinet meetings, a prayer session last Friday and one of his grandson’s weddings on Saturday.

A group of politically unaligned members of civil society urged Mr Buhari this week to “heed the advice of his personal physicians by taking a rest to attend to his health without any further delay”. One of the signatories, the political analyst Jibrin Ibrahim, told The Times yesterday that he was worried the president, whose reputation for honesty belies that of many Nigerian politicians, was being manipulated. “The real concern is that people around him might be blocking him from getting treatment abroad, for selfish reasons,” Ibrahim said.

Asked what those reasons might be, Ibrahim said: “Pecuniary. If the president is not on top of things then all sorts of deals could be being

done.” He said that there was “suspicion, but we have no proof of this, they might be making money behind his back”.

Some diplomats believe that close allies of Mr Buhari, a Muslim from the north, are motivated by keeping the presidency away from the vice-president, Yemi Osinbajo, a Christian from the south, with an eye to the next election, due in two years. “Getting Buhari to anoint a northerner as his successor for 2019 is their only goal,” one diplomat said, adding that Mr Osinbajo’s well-received performance during Mr Buhari’s seven-week absence had only “hardened their resolve”.

Wole Soyinka, the Nigerian Nobel laureate, has called on the president to reveal the nature of his condition and has likened Mr Buhari’s stance to that of President Trump on his tax returns.

The uncertainty over Mr Buhari’s health comes at a difficult time for Nigeria, which is under severe pressure from low prices of oil, its primary export, and internal security problems including those posed

by Boko Haram terrorists and food shortages in the northeast.

Many Nigerians remain concerned about potential political turmoil given the similarities to events in 2009 when President Yar’Adua, a Muslim from the country’s north, left for medical treatment in Saudi Arabia. He was never seen in public again and died soon after his return to Nigeria in May 2010.

He was replaced in the intervening period by his vicepresident, Goodluck Jonathan, a Christian from the south, who went on to win the 2011 election.

•Culled from The Times of London

CAN Lists Conditions for Peace in Southern Kaduna Adedayo Akinwale in Abuja The Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) yesterday donated N8 million worth of relief materials to the victims of Southern Kaduna crisis, while it also gave some conditions to be met by the government before peace could return to the affected areas.

The CAN President, Rev. Samson Ayokunle, gave the conditions while addressing journalists in Kaduna.

He stated that President Muhammadu Buhari would be perceived as a sectional president if he continues to sideline other groups that make up the country.

According to him, “We came here because we realised what you people are passing through.

We may not have much to give you physically, but identifying with you will tell you that you are not alone in this situation.”

He added: “Until people of Southern Kaduna have their peace, Nigeria will not have peace. It is the duty of the government to ensure that Southern Kaduna and other part of the country struggling with herdsman are brought under control.

“So, peace in Southern Kaduna is a task that must be accomplished. Those troubling Southern Kaduna must be brought to book, and prosecuted. Their

gun must be taken away and sources of weapons prosecuted.

If government fails to prosecute them, it is not sincere. These are the conditions that government must fulfilled.”

Ayokunle therefore encouraged them not to lose hope, and not to think of retaliation, rather they should make their cause God. The CAN president emphasised that what could lead to peaceful co-existence was justice to all, pointing out that not the one with just talks but with action.

“Mutual respect for people of all ethnic groups and all religions.

It is when we do all these that we can do pilgrimage together.”

When asked when CAN is going to sit with the president and discussed with him, he stated: “We have seen the Vice president and if the door opens again we will see them. But you know that currently the president of the country has not has time to see CAN. To be a president of the nation, no group in the country should be sidelined otherwise he will continue to be a sectional president and that will go in history against him as a president who is not broad-minded who decided to sideline a group of people.... anyway it is not necessary to see him but it will be beneficial to the nation,” Ayokunle noted.

TIME TO PAY DIVIDEND

L-R; Company Secretary, Custodian and Allied Assurance Plc. Mr. Adeyinka Jafojo; Chairman, Dr. Omobola Johnson; and the Managing Director/CEO; Mr. Wole Oshin, at the 22nd annual general meeting of the company in Lagos...Wednesday Sunday Adigun

APC Targets N1.2bn Monthly Revenue from Membership Dues Onyebuchi Ezigbo in Abuja The All Progressives Congress (APC) has perfected a strategy to rake in the sum of N1.2 billion monthly from dues collection as part of efforts to generate funds internally.

The party which has been experiencing funding challenges, hopes to overcome it through a newly acquired software system which enables it to deduct the sum of N100 monthly from the members’ airtime as they recharge their mobile telephones.

Speaking on the efficacy of the initiative, the National Treasurer of the party, Alhaji Ibrahim Gwagwarwa, said the software was designed in such a way that N100 would be deducted from each members mobile phones automatically from airtime recharge at the

end of every month.

According to him, the sum of N1.2 billion was arrived at based on the of registered APC members currently put at 12 million.

The treasurer, whose office is warehousing the software, also stated that the party’s National Executive Committee (NEC) has approved the electronic system for membership dues collection.

He said the party was making arrangement to decentralise the installations to make it easy for members to be captured in all the geopolitical zones.

However, THISDAY gathered that the leadership of the party is delaying the commencement of the initiative due to general disenchantment among the party members over the poor reward system in the ruling party.

A source told THISDAY that

when the plan to tax members was mentioned to the state chairmen during a recent meeting, it elicited negative reactions as they complained that most of the members were left out of consideration in federal appointments so far made by the President Muhammadu Buhari administration.

The National Treasurer also stated that the party expects to generate income from two other ways, namely levies and donations.

He said in line with the template developed for the exercise, ministers and senators as public office holders on the platform of the party are expected to make a payment of N100,000 monthly as levies, while governors and other chieftains of the party are expected to make donations to the party.

These payments also would be captured by the party’s electronic system once they are paid through the banks into the party’s bank accounts.

On the advantages of the system, the national treasurer stated that it would make for accountability as all the monies that come into the party would be captured in the system.

He also stated that the system would show with ease members who are financially up to date in their financial dealings with the party.

“The party would look at the financial record of anybody who wants anything from the party in the system and only those who make financial contributions to the party would be considered,” he said.

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ExxonMobil Suspends Workers over Dec 2016 Violent Protests Company’s workers insist on indefinite strike Ejiofor Alike in Lagos and Okon Bassey in Uyo Mobil Producing Nigeria Unlimited, an affiliate of ExxonMobil, has suspended some workers who allegedly threatened the lives of other staff and damaged the company’s property in the December 16, 2016 protest.

THISDAY gathered that the suspension of some of the

workers for one month, pending the outcome of the investigation into their alleged roles in last year’s violent protest, has fuelled a fresh three-day warning strike by the workers.

The workers, however, alleged that their three-day warning strike was in protest against the alleged flouting of the local content Act by the company and sacking of Nigerian workers, among other

Jubilation in Jigawa as Court Releases Lamido on Bail Ibrahim Shuaibu in Dutse The commercial and administrative activities were momentarily brought to a halt yesterday immediately after the Magistrate Court in Dutse granted former Governor of Jigawa State, Alhaji Sule Lamido, bail.

Lamido was sent to Kiyawa prison on Tuesday by the Chief Magistrate of court 22, Muhammad Lamin, after he was brought before the court by the Zone 1 Police Headquarters, Kano.

At the state secretariat, workers hurriedly closed for the day and began celebration and praying to God for the release of the ex-governor whom they regard as “Leader of the masses.”

It was also learnt that majority of the politicians loyal to the PDP and some factions of the APC also joined hundreds of the people to celebrate Lamido’s freedom.

Lamido was also led by hundreds of cars and motorcycles in a motorcade to his country home in Bamaina of Birnin Kudu Local Government Area of the state.

It was also learnt that food vendors along Kiyawa, Bakin Kasuwa and Danmasara roads offered free foods and drinks to the people as part in their solidarity with the former governor’s release from prison.

Most of the people who spoke with THISDAY explained that during Lamido’s tenure, there were developmental projects, booming commercial activities,

among others.

Malam Adamu Shuwarin said: “We are seriously regretting the coming of this administration because they do nothing other than witch-hunt opponents.”

However, before his release on self-recognition, Lamido arrived the court amid heavy security, with a happy face.

The prosecutor, Ikenna Ekpunobi, had argued that the former goveernor should not be granted bail as he could jeopardise the peace in the state.

The magistrate, Lamin, disagreed with the counsel, and rejected a police report tendered allegedly linking the former governor to violence by his supporters.

The counsel to Lamido, Felix John, argued that his client remained innocent until proven guilty.

He said the evidence upon which the former governor was being tried was documentary and as such, there was no witness to influence. He said Lamido, being a former governor, could not jump bail. The magistrate ruled that the charge against Lamido - inciting violence - was bailable.

He said: “There is no evidence before the court that if the accused person is granted bail, he will jump bail and no evidence other people will commit similar offence, and that the accused will jeopardise peace of the state.”

The Chief Magistrate therefore adjourned the case to July 5 for further hearing.

Nigerian Breweries’ MD Set for New Role in Heineken Group

Obinna Chima

The Nigerian Breweries Plc yesterday announced that its Managing Director/CEO, Mr. Nicolaas Vervelde, will complete his assignment in the company on June 16, 2017 to take up a new role within the Heineken Group outside Nigeria.

The Head of Corporate Affairs Adviser, Nigerian Breweries Plc, Kufre U. Ekanem, explained in a statement that in anticipation of and preparatory to assuming his new role, Vervelde submitted a letter of resignation to the Board of Directors at a meeting held on May 3.

“The board accepted the resignation which will take effect on June 16, 2017 and has informed the Nigerian Stock Exchange of the development. Having previously served on the Board as a nonexecutive Director, Mr. Vervelde rejoined the board on August 1,

2010 as Managing Director/CEO and has successfully managed the affairs of the company ever since. “ The company has recorded several laudable milestones with Mr. Vervelde at the helm of affairs including the expansion of its operations through the acquisition of additional breweries. Through a twin agenda of cost leadership and market leadership supported by innovation, the company also expanded its portfolio of brands while equally focusing on internal efficiencies. The company ensured a consistently good return on investment for its shareholders throughout his tenure despite the recent challenges of the operating environment,” the statement added.

It also revealed that the board of Nigerian Breweries has immediately commenced the process of identifying a replacement for Vervelde and would make an announcement in that regard in due course.

issues.

The workers under the aegis the Petroleum and Natural Gas Senior Staff Association of Nigeria (PENGASSAN) had also threatened to embark on an indefinite strike last Monday if nothing was done to address the lingering issues.

However, a top official of the company told THISDAY off record yesterday that the workers’ grievances were as a result of the one-month suspension slammed on workers who threatened the lives of others and damaged the company’s property in December 2016.

According to the official, the disciplinary action was part of the recommendations of the committee set up by the Minister of State for Petroleum, Dr. Ibe Kachikwu, to look into the workers’ grievances.

“Part of the committee’s recommendation was that the company was at liberty to set in motion, disciplinary actions against the workers who damaged the company’s property and threatened the lives of others. Every staff of the company signed a commitment to shun violence in the workplace.

They are employees of the company first before becoming union leaders and members. The other things recommended by the committee have been implemented. The company is now implementing the recommendation on disciplinary action and those who participated in the violent protest have been suspended for one month with pay to enable the company investigate their roles and come up with final decision. But because these guys feel that they are union members and

are above the law of the company, they became angry and brought up the issues that have been resolved and embarked on fresh strike,” the official explained.

But the Vice Chairman, Exxonmobil branch of PENGASSAN, Mr. Gbenga Ekundayo, had alleged that the oil company was in the practice of disengaging Nigerian workers and replacing them with expatriates, thus encouraging capital flight.

Ekundayo accused the company of breaching the agreement reached after the interventions of Kachikwu, the national union and other stakeholders.

Meanwhile, the Akwa Ibom State branch, of PENGASSAN yesterday announced plan to embark on indefinite strike in the state.

Also, the oil and gas association has passed a vote of no confidence on the Managing Director of ExxonMobil, Mr Paul McGrath, for the suspension of workers in the oil company.

The decision to embark on the strike and the vote of no confident on McGrath were reached by members of the PENGASSAN after their congress and protest march held at the vicinity of Mobil Producing Nigeria (MPN), Lagos gate in Ibeno Local Government Area of the state.

The resolution of the association was made available to journalists yesterday at a press briefing held in Mkpanak, Ibeno Local Government Area of the state by the National Deputy President of PENGASSAN, Mr. Jude Chidinwaogu.

HONOUR FOR HARD WORK

L-R: Director, Ideas Designed Executed, Ravi Kumart; MD/CEO Sujimoto, Sijibomi Ogundele; and Director, Ideas Designed Executed, Suresh Muniswamy, at the 10th Hotelier Summit where Ogundele was honoured with the Hospitality Honorarium Grand 2017 Award in Johannesburg, South Africa..recently

Supreme Court to Hear PDP Leadership Tussle Suit May 25 Alex Enumah in Abuja The Supreme Court will on May 25 hear the applications brought by the two factions of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) laying claim to the leadership of the party.

The Senator Ahmed Markafi faction of the party is challenging the validity of the Court of Appeal’s judgment which affirmed Senator Ali Modu Sheriff as the authentic National Chairman of the PDP. During yesterday proceedings which was presided over by Justice Musa Mohammed Dattijo, the PDP (appellant) as well as the 1st respondent (Sheriff) and Adewale Oladipo (2nd respondent) secured leave of the five-man panel to regularise their processes.

While Wole Olanipekun (SAN) appeared for the appellant, Akin Olujimi (SAN) appeared for Sheriff and Oladipo, Nelson Ani

announced appearance for the 3rd respondent (INEC) just as Mohammed Ndayako represented the 4th respondent.

Also fixed for hearing that same day, is a motion dated March 21, filed by Lateef Fagbemi, challenging the competence of the appeal filed by the appellant.

Lateef had told the court that he filed the motion on behalf of the PDP (Sheriff-led national executive committee), insisting that he is the authentic National Chairman of the PDP, going by the judgment of the Court of Appeal, Port-Harcourt.

Fagbemi claimed that, “it was wrong for an appeal to be filed at the Supreme Court without consulting the Chairman of the party.

“The person I am representing is not interested in the appeal, and I am here based on the judgment of the Court of Appeal which

recognised Sheriff as National Chairman of the PDP.” He pointed out that the judgment has not been set aside and no order for stay of execution has been obtained, adding that if Markafi faction must appeal the matter, it should be on the platform of an interested party and not as PDP. However, the panel posed the following questions to him to justify whether or not he should be entertained.

“What entitles you to be heard in this appeal? And was the decision of the Court of Appeal secured ex-parte?, the panel asked.

Fagbemi, however, told the court that he was in the matter on the instance of Sheriff, who according to him is the validly known national leader of the PDP and has asked him to discontinue the appeal.

But he admitted that the judgment obtained at the appellate

court was not via an ex-parte order.

Supporting Fagbemi’s position, Olujimi stated: “It is important to decide on the competence of the appellant/applicant because PDP was respondent at the Court of Appeal.”

Meanwhile, describing Fagbemi’s motion as “a storm in a tea cup,” Justice Dattijo granted him seven days to file and serve his written address in support of his motion on parties, while five days were given to Olanipekun to reply.

In addition, the panel gave 14 days to the 1st and 2nd respondents to file and serve their counter affidavit on the appellant.

The Makarfi-led faction had filed an appeal at the Supreme Court to challenge the decision of the Court of Appeal, which affirmed Sheriff faction as the authentic leadership of the PDP.

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CCT Trial: Saraki to Make No-case Submission Alex Enumah in Abuja

Senate President, Dr, Bukola Saraki, has told the Code of Conduct Tribunal of his intention to make a no-case submission in the false asset declaration charges slammed on him by the federal government since 2015.

Saraki, through his counsel, Paul Erokoro, informed the tribunal that he would need the complete record of proceedings since 2015 when the case started to enable him make his no-case submission in line with provisions of the law.

The decision of Saraki to make a no-case submission came as the federal government formally concluded its trial after calling four witnesses and tendering several documents to establish a case of false asset declaration against the defendant.

Mr. Rotimi Jacobs (SAN) who had handled the prosecution since inception did not object to the decision of the defendant to

file a no-case submission on the grounds that the defendant has a right to do so.

He, however, pleaded with the tribunal to take into consideration the fact that the trial has spanned nearly two years.

Responding, the Chairman of the tribunal, Mr. Danladi Umar, after consultation with parties in the matter, fixed June 8 for the tribunal to adopt written submission expected to be filed and exchange by counsel in the suit.

At the resumed trial yesterday, a prosecution witness, Bayo Dauda, staff of a commercial bank had informed the tribunal that the documents allegedly used for foreign transaction were not in possession of the bank.

He stated that all efforts to locate the documents were unsuccessful because the transaction took place long time ago.

Besides, the witness further said he has no address of any property bought by Saraki with the alleged

foreign remittances.

He, however, admitted that Saraki like any other customer, took loan three times from the bank and had also repaid the loans in line with the agreement.

The witness informed the tribunal that the defendant apart from not defaulting in the payment of the loan, also complied with other terms of the loan which included submission to the bank, the title documents purchased with the loan.

Dauda further added that Saraki had equally procured comprehensive insurance on the properties purchased with the loan. The federal government in 2015 shortly after Saraki’s emergence as Senate President, dragged him before the tribunal, accusing him of failure to declare his asset in line with the law.

The government had amended the charges against the Senate President four times before closing its case.

Senate Restricts Cameramen from Covering Proceedings Damilola Oyedele in Abuja The Senate has announced the further reduction of television cameramen covering the proceedings of the upper legislative chamber from 13 to 6, a decision which led to the boycott of yesterday proceedings by all press corps television cameramen.

The television stations approved by the Senate bureaucracy are the Nigerian Television Authority (NTA), Africa Independent Television (AIT), Channels Television, Silverbird Television and in-house New Age Television.

The development is coming a day after the World Press Freedom day, where Senate President, Bukola

Saraki, addressed the members of the Senate Press Corps at the press centre, and assured them of all necessary cooperation in the discharge of their duties.

The Chairman of the Senate Press Corp, Mr. Cosmas Ekpunobi, in a letter addressed to the Chairman of the Senate Committee on Media and Public Affairs, Senator Abdullahi Aliyu Sabi, brought the matter to notice of the attention of the leadership of the Senate.

Ekpunobi recalled that at a recent meeting, the Clerk of the Senate, Mr. Nelson Ayewo, had raised issues of misconduct among some press corps members.

“The leadership of the Senate Press Corps however accepted to

call our erring members to order and get back to the Clerk for further action. We expected the Clerk to also rescind his decision pending the outcome of our meeting with the cameramen today,” he said.

He added that similar attempts to restrict the number of cameramen covering the proceedings of the House of Representatives was resolved through dialogue.

“We do not also want to subscribe to certain insinuations in some quarters that the new policy is another step to gag journalists covering the upper chamber especially as the Senate President paid us a visit last Wednesday to celebrate the World Press Freedom Day,”

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FRIDAYSPORTS

Group Sports Editor Duro Ikhazuagbe Email duro.ikhazuagbe@thisdaylive.com

No Movement for Eagles in May FIFA Ranking Duro Ikhazuagbe Lack of activities since Super Eagles last friendly game with Senegal in London has resulted in Nigeria’s static rating at 40th spot in the latest FIFA Ranking for the month of May released yesterday.

Eagles stay rooted to the same fifth spot they occupied in the continent last month behind Egypt, Senegal, Cameroon and Burkina Faso While reacting to the ranking, Super Eagles Media Officer, Toyin Ibitoye, told THISDAY that there was nothing to worry about as the ranking was a reflection of what happened in the month under review.

“I think it is nothing to worry about. In the month reviewed, nothing happened and there were no friendly games and no official games,” stressed Ibitoye.

The Super Eagles spokesman while admitting June is going to be a busy month for the senior national team, hinted that Nigeria is preparing for the challenges ahead. “We are ready for the challenges coming up next month. It is going to be very busy for us; we will be going to camp to train ahead of the qualifiers for the AFCON 2019 and the

World Cup 2018 matches.

He justified Eagles ranking for last month that has been sustained in the current ranking for May. “Last month’s assessment by FIFA is justifiable because it has been a quiet month for the teams in international front,’’ Ibitoye noted.

Nigeria’s foes in next month’s Africa Cup of Nations qualifier, South Africa remain stagnant at 64th in the world and 12th in the continent.

The same inactivity that led to no movement in Africa also affected the global rankings as there was no movement in the top 20 places.

Overall, Brazil sits at the apex of the world with 1672 points, while Argentina is second with reigning world champions Germany in third place.

The next Coca-Cola/FIFA ranking will be published on 1 June 2017.

AFRICA’S TOP 10 1 Egypt 2 Senegal 3 Cameroon 4 Burkina Faso 5 Nigeria 6 Congo DR 7 Tunisia 8 Ghana 9 Cote d’Ivore 10 Morocco

Super Eagles maintained last month’s position of 40th globally and 5th in Africa in the May FIFA Ranking released yesterday

Anthony Joshua, Tyson Fury Super-fight Set for April Next Year Anthony Joshua could get his long-awaited grudge match with Tyson Fury in April 2018 with the promoters of both fighters already teeing up the showdown.

Seconds after AJ’s thrilling 11th-round win over future hall-of-famer Wladimir Klitschko, the new heavyweight king called out the former champ.

Fury was seven stone overweight and will not be AJ‘s next victim – especially with Klitschko pushing for a rematch – but he claims his current training camp is working.

And that is music to the ears of Joshua’s matchmaker Eddie Hearn, who can’t wait to return to the 90,000 Wembley stadium for another massive

event.

Hearn told UK’s the Mail: “There is nothing I or AJ would want more than to see Tyson back in the ring.

But it won’t be next. Tyson just won’t be ready.

“Physically he is not at the races and he has a lot to resolve in terms of his doping hearing and getting his licence back.

“As it stands, I think the best chance of a Fury fight is April 2018, at Wembley.

That depends on a successful defence in October or November.

“Rest assured, if we can make it happen, we will make it happen.

“I believe Wladimir is keen (to do the rematch). If he is then it is a sequel people

would definitely want to see.

“I’m sure Wlad believes he nearly had AJ out of there and I know that AJ wants to iron out some mistakes and do a better job next time.”

Fury is in Marbella training – and acting up - with fellow traveller and middleweight world champion Billy Joe Saunders, who defends his title in July.

The 28-year-old has insisted he is finally on the comeback trail and he is working on getting his boxing licence back from the British Boxing Board of Control.

If he succeeds then his promoter, Frank Warren, wants a tune-up fight on that card with a view to having his man ready for that April super-fight.

Bundesliga: Dortmund Hosts Hoffenheim in Week 32 Cracker The German city of Dortmund will this weekend explode as top contenders in the German Bundesliga battle for supremacy with Borussia Dortmund hosting visiting TSG 1899 Hoffenheim in the week 32 of the matches this weekend.

The Dortmund side, 4th and hoping for a home victory is currently trailing Hoffenhiem in the 3rd position.

With coach Thomas Tuchel ever ready to propel his strikers, Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang, Ousman Dembele, Marco Reuse, and Alexandre Isak to match against the visitors, the team from North Rhine-

Westphalia, so far appears to have an edge over the visitors though Hoffenheim is ahead with a point.

Their last clash on December 16, 2016 ended in a draw. The head-to-head of their last five meet shows Dortmund with two wins and three draws.

However, Hoffenhiem have been tremendous this season.

A fifth division side in 2000, the club made a remarkable advance to the German football league system top tier Bundesliga in 2008 with the financial backing of alumnus and software mogul Dietmar Hopp.

Analysts believe the

Nagelsmann factor accounts for the upswing in fortunes of the team. They believe that since he took over from Huub Stevens in February last year, the 29-year-old has taken TSG from the relegation battle to the fight for Europe, Football viewers can enjoy the best of the German Action on StarTimes World Football Channels 244 and 254 by 2:30pm on Saturday.

Speaking on these coming sporting actions, Acting Brand and Marketing Director, StarTimes, Mr. Qasim Elegbede, said its commitment to delivering quality sporting content to its subscribers.

Cheprot Seeks to Make History at Okpekpe Race Kenya’s Simon Cheprot will be hoping to make history as the first man to successfully defend the men’s title when the fifth edition of the IAAF Bronze Label Okpekpe International 10km Road Race gets underway next weekend in Okpekpe near Auchi in Edo State.

Last year, Cheprot won the men’s title in 29:48 seconds to become the third Kenyan to win the men’s title in four editions.

Cheprot is one of the elite athletes confirmed for this year’s race and will now have the chance to achieve what fellow countrymen Moses Masai (2013 winner of the inaugural edition of the race) and Alex Korio (2015 winner) failed to accomplish.

Born on July 2,1993,Cheprot

is a gold level 10km runner and holds a personal best of 27.41 seconds and has consistently broken 28 minutes in the race since he ran 27.57 seconds in 2012.

In March last year he was sixth at the IAAF/Cardiff University World Half Marathon Championships held in Cardiff, Wales where he ran 28.00 minutes in the first 10 kilometres of the race before coming to take the Okpekpe title two months later.

Meanwhile, organisers of the only IAAF label 10km road race in Africa in 2017 have restated their readiness to organise a bigger and better event next Saturday.

Race Director, Zakari Amodu, has said that the first and only race in Nigeria to be a member of the Association

of International Marathons and Distance Races (AIMS) will live up to its billing as one of the prestigious road races in the world.

“Everything is set for a good race,” begins Amodu. ‘The IAAF have set requirements for us to follow as a bronze label event and I can tell you we have met all the requirements and have even moved several steps higher,” he continued.

“What we are waiting for is just for the race day to be here so that we can put into practice all we have been doing in terms of keeping to the requirements.

“We have met the requirement concerning the number of elite athletes that must be present for a bronze label event. In fact we have met the requirement for a gold label event.”

S’Africa Names Baxter as New Bafana Coach The South African Football Association (SAFA) and SuperSport United have agreed terms on the release of coach Stuart Baxter from the Pretoria-based team to Bafana Bafana at the end of the current PSL season.

Baxter will be officially unveiled as the Head Coach of Bafana Bafana by SAFA President Dr Danny Jordaan upon his return to South Africa from CAF and FIFA commitments.

The SuperSport coach will meanwhile, continue to fulfill his coaching responsibilities at the club for the remaining four ABSA Premiership fixtures as well as the Nedbank Cup and Confederation Cup. SAFA and SuperSport have

agreed to work together to ensure that the Baxter gets time off post the final league match on 27 May to prepare Bafana Bafana for the upcoming AFCON 2019 qualifying match against Nigeria on the weekend of 9-11 in Uyo. SuperSport United CEO Stanley Matthews wished Baxter the best of luck for his second term as Bafana Bafana head coach, but stressed that the focus right now is still on SuperSport retaining the Nedbank Cup and finishing in the Top Four of the League.

“We obviously did not want to lose Stuart as our Coach.

He has done a great job in getting us to the competitive level we expect as a Club, however, we also understand

that Stuart would like to have a final go at competing at a FIFA World Cup and that would be a fantastic achievement for the country as a whole,” said Matthews.

“But right now our focus, and that of Stuart’s, has to be on a strong finish to the League, becoming the first club to retain the Nedbank Cup and to fight our way through the group stages of the CAF Confederation Cup. So we are glad this matter is now settled and we can all focus on the job at hand which is meeting our football targets for this season and planning ahead for next season.”

SAFA is also pleased that the matter has finally been settled.

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MISSILE Mohammed to State House Reporter

“The answer to your first question is absolute bunkum. It is absolutely untrue that he is being fed. He was in the office yesterday as you all reported.

“And if the doctors say he should take a rest, because they think he’ll recover faster, then he ought to rest rather than forcing himself to work when he is not fit to work.”

– Minister of Information and Culture, Lai Mohammed reacting to a question from State House reporters who wanted to confirm rumours that President Muhammadu Buhari’s health had deteriorated to the point he was being spoon fed.

AKINOSUNTOKUN DIALOGUE WITH NIGERIA

akin.osuntokun@thisdaylive.com

Restructuring or Military Dictatorship

A

re there Nigerian observers who hold the opinion that military dictatorship had served Nigeria well? Is there an objective basis to hold the belief that the net effect of military rule on Nigeria is positive and beneficial? Is there any legacy of military rule that holds the potential to serve Nigeria well? If the answer is generally no then why do we insist on holding to its most debilitating baggage?- the restructuring of Nigeria from four well-appointed regions into the liability of a politically and economically bankrupt thirty six states.

Nonetheless, beyond the impulse to criminalise the totality of the legacy of military dictatorship I am quite open to suggestions that run contrary to the prevalent negative perception of military rule in Nigeria. And I will lead the way in drawing attention to one such suggestion. Up till the mid-70s, there was a political school of thought, which postulated a potential utility of benevolent dictatorship to foster political stability and development in Africa and the third world.

The Africa-wide experience and sequence of the’ revolution of rising frustration’ following the ‘revolution of rising expectations’ quickly eroded the legitimacy of post-independence (civilian class) nationalist governments that inherited the mantle of political leadership from the colonial masters. This disenchantment and loss of public confidence typically rendered African societies prone to seeking recourse and salvation in military rule intervention.

It was within this framework of military Messianism that the January 15th 1966 coup was initially situated before the intervention spun out of control and acquired a catastrophic momentum.

The execution of the coup suffered the fatal flaw of ethno regional lop-sidedness and thereby lent itself to the interpretation of a realpolitik ulterior motive; of inter-ethnic power struggle rather than the advertised motive of nationalist idealism. Thus the original posturing of Nigerian nationalism of the first coup transmogrified into a balance of terror contestation for political ascendancy. There is, albeit, a crucial distinction between the January 1966 coup and the counter coup that followed seven months later-the former intended itself as the harbinger of reformist nationalist government; whilst the latter reacted to stake a claim to political control and hegemony over Nigeria-beyond which it was not clear on the next step to take.

The subsequent escalation of this agenda to incorporate the governance of Nigeria was an afterthought-that was allegedly prompted by the counsel and guidance of the British government. The important clarification here is that following the tradition established by the counter coup of 1966, military governance of Nigeria became one in which aspiration for good and effective governance was ultimately secondary and subordinated to the overriding primary motive of the retention of political power and control.

In varying degrees, this is the syndrome that has come to define Nigerian governance since

Buhari 1966. In the workings of the post-civil war ideology of the unity and stability of Nigeria (as an end unto itself), political hegemony and control is promoted and prioritised over the effective and good governance of Nigeria. For instance, the below par governance performance of the incumbent presidency of Mohammadu Buhari will find considerable explanation within this matrix.

A uniquely deleterious manifestation of this syndrome is the elastic apathetic tolerance of the Nigerian public to poor governance.

It is within the purview of this tradition that explanations will be found for the poverty of Nigerian governance especially under military rule. It explains the perfunctory attitude and sometimes outright indisposition of Nigerian government towards good governance.

Perhaps the most consequential legacy of this poverty was the exponential restructuring of Nigeria from the well-appointed four regions of the first republic to the subsisting thirty six states-that have morphed into agents of Nigeria’s underdevelopment.

At the level of theory, it is plausible to argue that the reduction and multiplication of Nigerian states into any number of units portend no negative consequences for development under military dictatorship as it does for federalism and constitutional democracy. And the formulation of Nigeria’s governance problem as reducible to leadership quality rather than structural dysfunction makes sense, only if Nigeria were to remain under the dispensation of military rule. Within the context of the unified top-down command culture of the military, good or bad governance will likely take a cue from the good or bad leadership quality at the top of the military hierarchy. A committed and visionary military dictator has the potential to reproduce himself in the quality of his appointees (as military governors) who are absolutely answerable to his direction and supervision. The powers exercised by such governors are a delegated

authority of the military leader. Not so for constitutional democracy.

To illustrate, let us employ President Mohammadu Buhari and the present constitutional dispensation. First in contrast to what obtains under military dictatorship, all the thirty six state governors are not his employees and appointees and are to a considerable extent autonomous of him in the exercise of their constitutionally derived powers. So right from the onset he is in no position to determine the quality of those who would emerge as governors (assuming he is a good role model). Secondly, in the good conduct or misconduct of their political office they are not answerable to him. Third there is the recurrent expenditure cost implication of the legislative arm of government- that is absent under a military rule.

At the moment, only a putative restructuring of Nigeria into bigger political units (like the present six zone nomenclature) portends similar salutary effects. The resultant considerably larger political unit is bound to generate a stiffer and keener competition for political leadership culminating in a superior quality of state actors. By dint of the same logic, the political leaders are going to be subjected to a commensurately extensive public scrutiny and accountability. The thesis of the ‘economies of scale’ postulates that the larger the scope of production, the lower the unit cost of production. In the political arena this translates into cheaper governance cost resulting from the consolidation of the hitherto replicative cost of governance infrastructure and recurrent expenditure into just one unit.

Taken together these allied emanations will inevitably work together to produce more efficient utilisation of resources, less corruption and greater governance accountability.

Contrariwise, spread over thirty six states, the resources available are overstretched and the little that is available per state is gobbled up in a culture of crippling graft and corruption; recurrent expenditure of running a replicative paraphernalia of government; and outright waste.

Amongst others, Buhari was elected under the banner of anti-corruption crusader and the maturing lesson Nigeria has come to learn is that even if he were so disposed, his capacity to deliver on this score is to a large extent circumscribed by the dysfunctional abuse of the rule of law. In a manner of speaking and without extenuating the embarrassing incompetence of his present incumbency, this is the consequential difference between the quality of his first and second coming.

Under military rule, appointed public officials including military governors are only corrupt to the extent to which corruption is tolerated by the leader of the military government. No such potential mitigation exists within civilian rule dispensation. The corollary here is the near impossibility of attaining sustained socio political development (with the present thirty six states structure) in any other political milieu than a dictatorship.

Short of accommodating ourselves to an untenable dictatorship regime, the beckoning

golden recourse is the adoption of the logic behind the enactment of Nigeria’s independence constitution. The 1960 constitution remains, over and above other subsequent poor imitations and subversions, a valid claimant to the pronouncement of the preamble ‘we the people of Nigeria’. Since 1966 we have not had a combination of political leaders who embodied the will and aspiration of Nigerian peoples in the manner that the trio of Obafemi Awolowo, Ahmadu Bello and Nnamidi Azikiwe does-all of who subscribed to the 1960 constitution. And in terms of the maximisation and optimisation of national resources, it is not in contention that any phase of Nigeria’s history rivals the 1960-66 era.

I have yet to come across any informed Nigerian observer who believes that the big size of Nigeria is a liability and not an asset. Why then do we not apply the same logic internally and consolidate the states into bigger more viable units? Now, regardless of the enduring utility of restructuring for all Nigerians, the truth is that it carries unpalatable short term implications for some of us. Cognisant of this, the realistic way to proceed is to clarify such implications and address them in a give and take manner that mitigates the envisioned adversity. For instance, rather than push for the immediate application of fiscal federalism, we can freeze the extant revenue allocation formula for the next ten years-time enough for each unit to find its feet. Restructuring must not be amenable to the interpretation of a loss for some and win for others. It has to be and must be seen to be a win-win situation for us all.

FROM THE ARCHIVES-SECRET 1958 MEMO OF ALLAN LENNOX BOYD ‘Tafawa Balewa is openly anti-Communist, he is under no illusions about the difficulties of the task facing both himself and the country, and his policy is likely to be as pro-Western as the narrow Muslim outlook of his principal Northern supporters will allow. In his Party hierarchy he is only deputy to the leader, the vain and pompous Sardauna of Sokoto, Premier of the Northern Region’.

‘In the West the grant of Regional selfgovernment has on balance been justified.

The Action Group Government, led by the Premier, Chief Awolowo, have proved reasonable and competent administrators and, although with the steady run-down of the cadre of overseas officers there is bound to be some decline in standards of administration, the advanced educational programme of the Region should in time provide sufficient replacement’.

‘I understand that at the Federal elections late next year the Northern People’s Congress and the N.C.N.C. (who are normally kept apart by mutual suspicion and by Northern dislike of Dr. Azikiwe), alarmed by the determination and organising ability of the Action Group, are likely to combine to keep the Action Group out of power. Such a combination would offer no great reassurance for competent or courageous Federal Government’.

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