Saturday 6th May 2017

Again, CBN Boosts Forex Supply with $389 Million In Just 3 Months, Nigeria Spends N760bn on Importation of Petroleum Products

Ndubuisi Francis in Abuja and Obinna Chima

The retail segment of the interbank forex market received a huge boost yesterday as the Central Bank of Nigeria

(CBN) intervened with a total of $388.66 million sold to authorised dealers in that sector of the market.

It also emerged yesterday that about 5.77.06 billion litres of petroleum products

valued at N760.44 billion were imported into the country in the first quarter of 2017.

Yesterday’s figures were the results of the bids submitted by dealers since Tuesday, May 2, 2017.

Confirming the numbers, the Acting Director, Corporate Communications Department at the CBN, Isaac Okorafor, disclosed that $87.885 was for spot sales, while $300.8 million was sold as forwards.

Okorafor further explained that the forwards were sold into three tenors of 30, 45 and 60 days respectively. According to him, the Bank sold $100.95 as 30-day forwards; $110.48 million as 45-day

forwards and $99.37 as 60-day forwards.

While also confirming that the Bank continued with its intervention in the Bureau Continued on page 8

Kogi Governor Threatens to Sack Striking Doctors over Unpaid Salaries... Page 47 Saturday 6 May, 2017 Vol 22. No 8052. Price: N250

www.thisdaylive.com TR

UT H

& RE A S O

N

EFCC: Wife of Suspended NIA DG Bought Ikoyi Flat for N360m Despite Osinbajo's panel, EFCC pursues permanent forfeiture of Ikoyi millions Benneth Oghifo with Agency report The apartment in Ikoyi, Lagos, where $43.5 million was found in April, was bought for N360 million by a company owned

by Folashade Oke, wife of the suspended Director-General of the National Intelligence Agency (NIA).

The Economic and Financial

Crimes Commission (EFCC) said this yesterday at a federal high court in Lagos.

In an affidavit and exhibits tendered to support a prayer for the permanent forfeiture of the money to the federal government, the EFCC said a company called Choba Ventures Limited bought the flat and paid for it between August

and September 2015.

The EFCC said Fine and Country Limited, a real estate firm, was the vendor, and that up till now, despite notices published in newspapers, neither Oke nor Choba Ventures had stepped out to claim the money.

Ayo, husband of Folashade, had claimed before a presidential panel, headed by Vice-President

Yemi Osinbajo that the money belonged to the NIA. There were reports that the money was part of the $285 million withdrawn from the account of an NNPC subsidiary, on the orders of former President Goodluck Jonathan.

According to agency reports monitored in Lagos, in the affidavit filed in support of its

prayer for forfeiture, the EFCC tendered the receipt of payment to Choba Ventures Limited issued

by Fine & Country Ltd, another company.

The agency also tendered a Deed of Assignment between Union Bank of Nigeria plc and Choba Ventures Limited, while the third exhibit is a publication of the order of the court.

Rotimi Oyedepo, EFCC lawyer, said the commission’s finding in the course of investigation leaves no one in doubt that flat 7, Osborne was purchased by Choba Ventures Limited and that the company’s directors are one Ayodele Folashade Oke and her son.

Continued on page 8

Buhari at Juma'at Prayer It’s a religious calling; people should not politicise it, says Adesina Omololu Ogunmade in Abuja Two weeks after he was last seen in the public, President Muhammadu Buhari yesterday participated in Juma'at prayers in Aso Rock mosque.

He was joined by Senator Abu Ibrahim, Senator Umaru Kurfi and the Chairman of Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), Ibrahim Magu, among other personalities.

His appearance in the mosque at 1.20 pm laid to rest insinuations that the president might have been incapacitated following his prolonged absence at the weekly Federal Executive Council (FEC) meetings and his conspicuous absence at last week Juma'at prayers.

Buhari upon appearing in the mosque yesterday, removed Continued on page 8

Osinbajo’s Visit to Delta State AND THE PRESIDENT PRAYS...

Quelled Unrest, Says Okowa… Pg 48 President Muhammadu Buhari and his Chief of Staff, Abba Kyari during the Juma'at prayers ...yesterday

SUNDAY AGHAEZE.

Governors Wives: Drug Abuse Rampant among Northern Women, Youths ...Page 8

2

T H I S D AY SATURDAY MAY 6, 2017

T H I S D AY SATURDAY MAY 6, 2017

3

4

T H I S D AY SATURDAY MAY 6, 2017

, '2 127 &2817 '$<6 , PDNH WKH GD\V FRXQW ZLWK P\ YHU\ KHOSIXO (YHUJUHHQ $FFRXQW

T H I S D AY SATURDAY MAY 6, 2017

5

6

T H I S D AY SATURDAY MAY 6, 2017

T H I S D AY SATURDAY MAY 6, 2017

7

8

SATURDAY, ÍžË&#x153; ͺ͸͚Ϳ Ëž T H I S D AY

PAGE EIGHT

Governors Wives: Drug Abuse Rampant among Northern Women, Youths Senator Iroegbu in Abuja The Northern Governors Wives Forum (NGWF) has raised the alarm over an alleged growing rate of drug abuse by young women and youths in the region.

This is coming as the wife of the President, Hajiya Aisha Muhammadu Buhari yesterday called for a holistic framework to tackle the menace of drug abuse among women and youths saying that it was solely responsible for the increase in school drop-out rate, crimes and violence, escalating in various parts of the country.

The wife of the Niger State governor, Dr. Amina Abubakar Bello in a statement yesterday on the outcome of the recent drug awareness and advocacy training

organised by the NGWF in Abuja, lamented that the problem of drug abuse amongst youths had continued to exacerbate at an alarming rate, with Northern states at the top of the table for the highest cases of drug abuse and addiction.

Mrs. Bello who was the Project Committee Chairperson said: "Over the years, the problem had become very common with women in the North, as it had been reported that an increasing number of mothers and young girls engage in drug/substance abuse; codeine being the most abused among this group.

"The extent of drug abuse in Nigeria had prompted the NGWF to make it one of their intervention priorities. Consequently, we sought to partner with relevant

organisations and stakeholders to curb the menace of drugs and alleviate the several adverse consequences of drug use and dependence in Northern Nigeria."

Aisha Buhari who was represented by the wife of the Speaker of House of Representatives, Mrs. Gimbiya Yakubu Dogara, lamented that drug abuse and addiction had now become a serious health and social issue rendering its user unproductive and dangerous.

Unfortunately, she said, a considerable number of victims of drug abuse were young people and alarmingly women, who if not treated and counselled, will have little chances of development. â&#x20AC;&#x153;I call on private owners of schools to include teaching

against drug abuse in their curriculum, so that children can be enlightened, about the vice to stop the abuse. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Parents need to talk to their children about the dangers of drug abuse which is a lot easier than losing a child to drugs.

Young people need to shun drug abuse and be masters of their destiny,â&#x20AC;&#x153; she said.

Also speaking, the chairman of the Northern Governorâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Forum, Kashim Shettima who was represented by the Secretary to the Borno State Government, Abba Shiwa noted that the issue of the intake of illicit drugs had reached an alarming proportion in Borno state since the invasion of the Boko Haram. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Borno was not known as a drug infected state, nor any

EFCC: WIFE OF SUSPENDED NIA DG BOUGHT IKOYI FLAT FOR N360M The agency said Folashade Oke, to buy the property, gave $1.658 million to Salla Petroleum and Gas Limited which turned out to be a Bureau de Change.

The latter converted the money to naira and credited the account of Fine and Country.

Fine and Country acknowledged the receipt of the money on 27th and 28th of August as well as 2nd and 3rd of September 2015 with a naira equivalent of N360,000,000. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Upon the payment, a Deed of Assignment was then executed between UBN and Choba Ventures Limited,â&#x20AC;? Oyedepo said.

Oyedepo, therefore, urged the court to hold that the commissionâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s submission that the house and the money found in it were reasonably suspected

to be proceeds of unlawful act.

He also urged the court to agree to permanently forfeit the money to the federal government in view of the fact that no one has come forward to lay claim to the money within the 14 days given by the court.

However, according to a source close to intelligence operations said it was not unusual for intelligence agencies to use proxies.

He said: â&#x20AC;&#x153;The property in question procured through a proxy company is legally owned by NIA with relevant documents. If one uses normal civil procedure for security duties then nothing will work.

The details EFCC is given is the normal security ways of doing things.

There must be cover story for all acts. It is normal to use proxy for classified actions. In most cases, the proxies are not even aware of the full details of the assignment they are embarking on. Intelligence agencies use fronts for actions."

The EFCC had during the raid on the Flat last April recovered $43,449,947, ÂŁ27,800 and N23,218,000. The money was kept in iron cabinets and â&#x20AC;&#x153;Ghana must goâ&#x20AC;? bags.

The commission said in coming forward to seek the order for final forfeiture, it had complied with the court directives as contained in the earlier order of interim forfeiture granted by the court by publishing the order in a national daily newspaper.

The commission said it did

not only publish the order of interim forfeiture, it went further to serve the motion and order on the owner of the property where the money in question was found.

Muslim Hassan, the judge, had earlier granted an order of interim forfeiture which must be published in a national daily newspaper to allow anyone interested in the money to come forward within 14 days and show cause why the money should not be permanently forfeited to the federal government of Nigeria.

The anti-graft agency said so far nobody had come forward to show interest in the huge money found.

Hassan has adjourned ruling till 6th of June.

in a statement that whereas it was the desire of the president "to be up and about," he was left without option than to heed his doctors' counsel.

He said full recovery could sometimes be a slow process which he said might require periods of rest and relaxation.

Since the president returned from London on March 10, this year after about 50 days of medical vacation, he had not left the precincts of the Presidential Villa.

Meanwhile, his Special Adviser on Media, Femi Adesina told THISDAY last night that Buhariâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s appearance in the mosque yesterday should not be given political interpretation. â&#x20AC;&#x153;He (Buhari) attended todayâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Jumaat not because he wanted to allay fears about his health condition. It is a religious thing.

We should not give it political coloration. Just as I had said earlier, the President is recovering very well. We should all continue to pray for him.â&#x20AC;?

BUHARI AT JUMA'AT PRAYER tive non-appearance in cabinet and public meetings had created apprehension in the polity that his health condition might have deteriorated.

But in defence of his nonavailability at state functions, his aides had insisted that the president was acting on his doctors' advice "to take things slowly" as he goes through the process of recovery, after a "long period of treatment in the United Kingdom some weeks ago."

Last Wednesday, following his absence at FEC meeting for the third time, the Minister of Information, Lai Mohammed, said the president would continue to rest until he had fully recovered.

This comment further fueled suspicion that the government might be hiding the truth about his state of health from the general public.

Mohammed's declaration was coming few days after his media aide, Garba Shehu, had stated

ALL FOR JAZZ...

L-R: Co-Chairman, Lagos @ 50 Committee, Hon. Habeeb Fasinro; Lagos State Governor, Mr. Akinwunmi Ambode; his wife, Bolanle, and former First Lady of Cross River State, Mrs. Onari Duke during the runway jazz special edition 2017 as part of activities to celebrate Lagos @ 50 at the Eko Hotel and Suites, Victoria Island, Lagos ... recently

relation to drug trafficking, but we have now found ourselves within the region of illicit drug consumption by men, women and children at an alarming rate, and we need help to curb the menace.â&#x20AC;?

Similarly, the chairperson of NGWF, Hajiya Asmau Abdulazeez Yari, said that some of the intervention the forum would carry out will include running an outreach and awareness campaign themed, â&#x20AC;&#x153;Breaking the Culture of Silence: Is your Loved One an Addict?â&#x20AC;? across all Northern States; an establishment of a 24-hour language sensitive helpline and a fundraising dinner to fund the project.

Yari attributed the increase in drug abuse, especially amongst youths to hash environmental

climate and imitation of the developed countries.

She also listed some of the disadvantages of drug abuse to include: ill health, dropping out from school, and other social deviant behaviour.

"We have to do something but we cannot do it alone; we the wives cannot do it alone. We need support to curb the challenge of drug abuse in Northern Nigeria," she said.

According to the founder, House of Recovery, Ms. Hadiza Aliko Mohammed, top among the substance of abuse are: codeine, fuels, cobwebs, cocaine, heroine and marijuana amongst others.

Mohammed said that in addition to the list above, the people involved also used other ingenious ways to abuse drugs.

AGAIN, CBN BOOSTS FOREX SUPPLY WITH $389 MILLION de Change (BDC) segment of the market to meet the needs of low-end users, the spokesman said the Bank remained resolute in ensuring that it supplies enough forex to genuine customers and in the process sustain liquidity in the market.

With this development, he expressed hope that the CBN would inch even much closer to its objective of convergence of the rates in the interbank and BDC segments.

It will be recalled that the CBN in the course of the week intervened in the wholesale and invisibles segments of the market with amounts valued at over $346 million to ease access to foreign exchange by different categories of customers.

However, the naira closed at N391 to the dollar yesterday.

According to analysts at Lagos-based CSL Stockbrokers Limited, the CBN has stayed relentless in its attempts to keep the market awash with FX liquidity.

"Things appear to be playing out in the CBNâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s favour as far as exchange rates are concerned. The spread between parallel and official rates have now narrowed since February and this meets at least one of the CBNâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s objectives. â&#x20AC;&#x153;The CBN has effectively sent a clear signal that there will be no further official rate devaluation, neither will there be a currency float. And with FX reserves still on the rise, we believe the CBN may remain true to its word," they added in a note yesterday.

CBN Governor, Mr. Godwin Emefiele had on Thursday met with President Muhammadu Buhari, following which he disclosed that the president was pleased with the gains recorded in the forex market, following the sustained intervention by the apex bank.

Emefiele said prices of crude oil in the international market which had been hovering between $55 and $56 per barrel had also helped in improving revenue generation and consequently fortified the nation's currency.

"Basically, as it's expected, what we normally do is

from time to time, to brief the President about activities about the Central Bank of Nigeria particularly this time as it relates to the efforts that the Central Bank is making to stabilise the forex 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 and I am saying the parallel market currently stabilises between 380 and 385.

In Just 3 Months, Nigeria Spends N760bn on Importation of Petroleum Products Meanwhile, about 5.77.06 billion litres of petroleum products valued at N760.44 billion were imported into the country in the first quarter of 2017, data just released from the National Bureau of Statistics (NBS) indicate.

According to the statistics, 4.05 billion litres of premium motor spirits (PMS), 1.31 billion litres of automotive gas oil (AGO) and 41.06 million litres of household kerosene (HHK), valued at N566.96 billion, N187.56 billion and N5.92 billion respectively, were imported into the country in the first quarter (Q1) 2017.

The month of March 2017 recorded the highest volumes of PMS, automotive and AGO imports into the country at 1.63 billion and 504.59 million litres while the highest monthly volume of household kerosene (HHK) was imported in January 2017 with 27.82 million litres valued at N4.07 billion.

Statewide distribution of truck-out volume for Q1 2017 showed that 4.81 billion of premium motor spirits (PMS), 1.31 billion litres of automotive gas oil (AGO) and 236.43 million litres of household kerosene (HHK) were distributed nationwide during the period under review.

Further breakdown of the truck-out volume for the period put Lagos leading the pack with a total of 22,883 trucks followed by Kano and Ogun states with 7,633 and 6,442 respectively.

Conversely, Yobe took the rear as the state with the lowest truck-out volume of 229.

9

MAY 6, 2017 ˾ THISDAY, THE SATURDAY NEWSPAPER

RingTrue

Yemi

Adebowale The Impunity of DSS’s Lopsided Recruitment 07013940521 yemi.adebowale@thisdaylive.com

T

he passing-out parade of 479 cadet officers of the Department of State Security (DSS) in Lagos on March 5 witnessed muffle protest by many who were saddened by the fact that the recruitment showed no regard for the nation’s Federal Character law as ingrained in our Constitution. The lopsidedness in the composition of the new officers absorbed into the agency on this day was startling.

For the avoidance of doubt, Section 14, subsection 3 of the 1999 Constitution states: “The composition of the Government of the Federation or any of its agencies and the conduct of its affairs shall be carried out in such manner to reflect the federal character of Nigeria and the need to promote national unity, and also to command national loyalty thereby ensuring that there shall be no predominance of persons from a few states or from a few ethnic or sectional groups in that government or any of its agencies.”

But the Lawal Daura-led DSS disregarded this aspect of our constitution and skewed the recruitment in favour of some states. The difference in the number of slots allocated to each of the 36 states and Abuja is disturbing. Reports have it that 51 newly commissioned cadet officers emerged from Katsina State, while Akwa Ibom and Lagos have only 5 and 7 respectively. The aberration goes beyond the case of Katsina State. A further geo-political breakdown showed that North-west has 165 cadet officers, North-east 100, Northcentral 66, South-west 57, South-south 42

waging vicious campaign of total capture and occupation of all vital security institutions and other juicy economic positions must know that power is ephemeral and that they can’t subject and subjugate forever without the resistance of the rest of the Nigerian population to this enslavement and forceful occupation of national offices and key positions that by constitutional right belongs to each and every Nigerian citizen irrespective of ethno religious beliefs and orientations.”

I don’t know how Daura intends to justify this recruitment scandal. It is even more depressing that the DSS boss has so far refused to offer any explanation for this disrespect for our constitution since the indignity went viral on March 5. The Federal Character Commission has equally been silent on this aberration. I thought that by now, its Daura acting chairman, Shettima Bukar-Abba and South-east got 44. See the table below would have taken appropriate action.

The FCC has clearly failed in its responfor details.

The Human Rights Writers Association sibility of ensuring compliance with the federal character law in recruitment of Nigeria was apropos in calling for into federal ministries, departments and the nullification of this unconstitutional recruitment. HURIWA remarked: “This is agencies.

This morning, I am calling on the a heartless violation of the constitutional principles of federal character and natural Presidency to call Daura to order and redress this unevenness. The constitujustice by officials of the DSS. This longtion is supreme. Those who have sworn standing rape of the Nigerian Constituto protect it must be seen to be doing so. tion would inevitably have significant negative impacts on the unity of this very The National Assembly should also dig highly fragile and fragmented nation-state in and conduct a forensic hearing on this violation of the Federal Character law known as Nigeria. with a view to ensuring equity, fairness “Those who have constituted themand constitutionalism. selves as political demi-gods and are

Craze for Foreign Public Relations Firms For most of this week, I waited for the Federal Ministry of Finance to react to the allegation that it hired a British public relations firm called Africa Practice to manage the campaign of Nigeria’s participation at the just concluded World Bank Spring Meeting in Washington DC, United States. A disavowal did not come. I guess the story is true. Indeed, the Federal Ministry of Finance recruited

a foreign public relations firm. I am surprised that this is happening in an era of “Change.” The Public Relations Consultants Association of Nigeria, who blew the whistle, cautioned the government to respect its own “Buy Nigeria, Save the Naira” campaign. These consultants want Buhari to make Finance Minister, Kemi Adeosun, who led the Nigerian delegation to the Washington DC meeting to explain whether the process of choosing the UK

firm complied with the provisions of the Public Procurement Act, regarding competitive bid from other equally qualified Public Relations Consulting firms.

“It will also be of interest to the Nigerian people to know if the Efficiency Unit of the Federal Ministry of Finance signed off on the payment of the allegedly retainer fee to the PR firm in question,” PRCAN said. It expressed concern that the minister’s action buttressed the insatiable appetite and penchant of Nigerian political office holders for “foreign is better,” cal governments. They are sole signatories and might indeed have confirmed the to the joint accounts with the local governfeeling held in professional circles that ments. Governors sit on the bulk of this Nigerian leaders have no regard for money and send chickenfeed to the local indigenous professionals. governments. So, how will they be able to It has also emerged that Adeosun’s pay teachers? Dickson has to sort out this Trade and Investment counterpart, mess. The suffering and humiliation of Okechuknwu Enelamah had previBayelsa primary school teachers must be ously engaged the services of the same brought to an end. For me, state governUK-based PR firm for an undisclosed ments should take over the funding and management of primary education without amount of money to manage the “Ease of Doing Business” campaign of attaching conditions to it. This is the only the federal government without any way forward for primary education in our competitive bid involving Nigerian dear nation.

PR firms.

Haba! How can all these be happening when this administration has been telling us to look inward and conserve forex? Here, millions of scarce USD is being paid to foreign firms at a Inspector General of Police, Ibrahim Idris, time Nigeria is struggling with forex. through a human rights lawyer, Daniel Omakor, is yet to yield result. An earlier Something is clearly wrong somepetition to the Minna Area Police Comwhere. Many indigenous public relamand did not produce result. tions firms have the competence and This is a clear case of criminal breach of global reach to handle these briefs. I trust, abduction and forceful marriage of a can vouch for this. Their track record minor. I urge the IGP to order a thorough speaks volumes. The Presidency investigation of the matter and immediatemust put a stop to this wastage and ly arrest Yusuf along with the Sharia court ensure that it does not happen again. judge. I sincerely hope that our human Adeosun and Enelamah must be rights activists will join the crusade to free called to order. These ministers must Janet. Child rights activists should stand up key into the “buy Nigeria” campaign. and be counted in this struggle. Where is “Change” must begin with those in the wife of the Niger State governor? Little government.

Janet must be set free.

Seriake Dickson, Please Pay These Teachers Primary school teachers in Bayelsa State are seething. They have not been paid for 10 months. The Bayelsa State chapter of the Nigeria Union of Teachers had embarked on a strike for six weeks at the beginning of the 2016/2017 academic session in September 2016 over these same unpaid salaries.

Governor Seriake Dickson should take urgent steps to pay these hapless teachers.

This governor should stop hiding under the sham excuse that the salaries of primary school teachers are the responsibility of local governments. We all know that state governors hold the keys to the vaults of lo-

Let’s Rise Up and Save Little Janet For those who have not been following the story, little Janet Gambo was early in March abducted and forcefully married by one Nasiru Yusuf of Shudna village in Shiroro Local Government Area of Niger State. Yusuf was entrusted to train her as a tailor. A Sharia Court conspired with Yusuf to carry out the illegal wedding with this minor. The court simply told Janet’s father, Habila Gambo that the minor had converted and embraced Islam and her name had been changed to Zainab and that she had been married to Yusuf. Gambo, who is a farmer in the same community, has been fighting for the return of her little girl in the last two months. A petition he wrote to the

States/No. of Cadets Abia 7, Adamawa 9, Akwa Ibom 5, Anambra 10, Bauchi 23, Bayelsa 7, Benue 9, Borno 16, Cross River 9, Delta 8, Ebonyi 7, Edo 6, Ekiti 12, Enugu 9, FCT 7, Gombe 14, Imo 11, Jigawa 14, Kaduna 24, Kano 25, Katsina 51, Kebbi 16, Kogi 11, Kwara 13, Lagos 7, Nasarawa 11, Niger 11, Ogun 8, Ondo 9, Osun 10, Oyo 11, Plateau 9, Rivers 7, Sokoto 15, Taraba 16, Yobe 12, Zamfara 20

Still On Binge Borrowing I got so many calls last week on my piece on binge borrowing by our governments at all levels. Some, whose state debts were not indicated in the piece, are demanding for the publication of a comprehensive list. These people want to see what their state governors owe. The domestic debt profile of all the 36 states is published below for all to see. The foreign debt profile will follow next week. So, dear Nigerians, peruse the debt profile of your states and ask your governors critical questions.

10

THISDAY, THE SATURDAY NEWSPA P PER ˾ MAY 6, 2017

SUPER SATURDAY

EMMANUEL MACRON

He’s 39, She’s 64: The Odd Couple p Who Could be Running France

Brigitte Trogneux, (not actually Madame Macron) the wife of presidential hopeful Emmanuel Macron

B

ut the man who could become the frontrunner for the biggest gg job j in the country y if he wins the first round of the presidential p election this Sunday y is also known by y another name: “chouchou”. It translates as “teacher’s pet”. p Aged g 39 Emmanuel Macron is handsome and intelligent g and as well as making gp political headlines is also, along g with his glamorous, chic wife Brigitte g g Trogneux, g a frequent q cover star of France’s most stylish y magazines. g So why y the nickname? It comes from the fact that wife Brigitte g is not only y 25 y years older than Macron – but that she used to be his high-school teacher.

The pair p met when Macron was 15 and a pupil p p at the Jésuites de la Providence school in Amiens, northern France. Madame Trogneux g – then known as Brigitte g Auzière – was his literature teacher and ran the theatre club. She was also a 40-year-old y married mother of three – one of her daughters g was even in his class.

Macron quickly q y made an impression p on his teacher.

“In class she always y used him as an example,” p recalled a former pupil. p p “He wrote poems all the time and she read them out.”

Romance blossomed the following gy year when the p pair worked on a school play. “Writing brought us together,” Brigitte g later said.

“It unleashed an incredible closeness. We wrote and

little by y little I was totally y charmed by y his intelligence. g He wasn’t like the others. “Nobody y will ever know at what moment our story y became a love story. That belongs g to us. That is our secret.”

The pair p met when Macron was 15 and a pupil at the Jésuites de la Providence school in Amiens Macron’s p parents, however, were not so enthralled – when he confided that he had feelings g for a member of the Auzière family naturally they assumed he meant Brigitte’s g daughter. g She spends p all her time beside him He asks her q questions and takes her advice When the truth emerged g – that he was in love with her mother – they promptly sent him to finish his studies in

THISDAY, THE SATURDAY NEWSPA P PER Ëž AY 6, 2017

SATURDAY â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;HEâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;S 39, SHEâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;S 64: THE ODD COUPLE WHO COULD BE RUNNING FRANCEâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;â&#x20AC;Ś

Brigitte and Emmanuel Paris. Before he left, he told his teacher: â&#x20AC;&#x153;You wonâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t get g rid of me. Whatever you do, I will marry y you.â&#x20AC;? y He was right. g The pair p spoke p every y day on the phone p and by y the time he was 18, Brigitte g had left her husband and took a teaching g job j in Paris to be with Macron.

They y have been together g ever since and in 2007 tied the knot. At their wedding, g Macron thanked her children for accept ping g their relationship, p adding g that they y were â&#x20AC;&#x153;not a normal couple â&#x20AC;&#x201C; but a couple that existsâ&#x20AC;?.

With Brigitte g by y his side Macronâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s political star has risen spectacularly: p p y after making g a fortune as an investment banker he joined j the Socialist Party y and was appointed pp minister of economy y in 2014, before resigning g g last year y to found En Marche! â&#x20AC;&#x201C; calling g for a y youth-driven â&#x20AC;&#x153;democratic revolutionâ&#x20AC;?. But this increased p profile has piqued public interest in his marriage. g At 64 Brigitte g has become something g of a style y icon. She is regularly g y spotted p on the front row at fashion shows and with her blonde hair, deep p tan, skinny y leather trousers and above-the-knee dresses, she looks more like a model than a schoolteacher.

French newspaper p p Lâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;Express p described her as â&#x20AC;&#x153;rockâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;nâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;rollâ&#x20AC;?, adding: g â&#x20AC;&#x153;Not for a second does she say, I cannot wear short

skirts. Ultra-high g heels, sleeveless dresses, leather trousers, she dares everything.â&#x20AC;? y g Not everyone y is so enamoured of the couple, p however. Although g it has been pointed out that their age p g difference is no more remarkable than that of Donald and Melania Trump p ((albeit in reverse), Brigitte g was recently y satirised on French radio as a â&#x20AC;&#x153;menopausal p Barbieâ&#x20AC;? â&#x20AC;&#x201C; and that â&#x20AC;&#x153;chouchouâ&#x20AC;? nickname has stuck.

In February y their marriage g was even described as a sham designed g to hide the fact that Macron was having g a homosexual affair with Mathieu Gallet, 40, the head of Radio France. go on TV to deny y Macron was forced to g it. â&#x20AC;&#x153;I am who I am,â&#x20AC;? he said. â&#x20AC;&#x153;I have never had anything y g to hide. I hear p people p saying y that I have a secret life or something. g Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s not nice for Brigitte. g Because I share all my y days y and nights g with her she asks me how I manage g it.â&#x20AC;?

For her part p the woman who next month could be Franceâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s fi rst lady y is equally q y uncompromising p g about their unconventional relationship. p â&#x20AC;&#x153;Iâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ve been involved in everything y g at his side for 20 years,â&#x20AC;? Brigitte y g told reporters p in October. â&#x20AC;&#x153;You always y seem surprised p that spouses p are beside their husbands. Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s time for things g to evolve.â&#x20AC;?

Culled from Abroad

11

12

ÍžË&#x153; ͺ͸͚Ϳ˞ THISDAY, THE SATURDAY NEWSPAPER

COMMENTARY

LESSONS FROM AGAINST THE RUN OF PLAY (2) History is crucial to democratic consolidation and nation-building, writes Emmanuel Ojeifo

S

o what are the lessons of Adeniyiâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s book? I can draw only one lesson, with multi-dimensional implications, and that lesson is that history is very crucial to democratic consolidation, to the preservation of memory and to nation-building. In a country where the teaching of history has been totally neglected, and where university departments of history are fast becoming endangered species, we must rediscover the value of telling our stories with a learning curve.

Sadly, what passes for history in Nigeria today is an amalgamation of contested ethnic, religious, regional and partisan prejudices. How can we move forward as a nation if we do not know our past?

In his 2008 book, Why History Matters, the British professor of history John Tosh argues that the study and application of history is a critical resource for the active citizen in a representative democracy. For Tosh, history is essentially about two forms of empowerment. â&#x20AC;&#x153;On the one hand, it can be used to intensify the sense of belonging to a group (be it nation or community) by anchoring it securely in shared narratives of the past. On the other hand, it can empower through enhancing the intellectual resources available to the active citizen.â&#x20AC;? Apart from being an adjunct to national identity and education in citizenship, â&#x20AC;&#x153;the real value of history,â&#x20AC;? according to Professor Tosh, â&#x20AC;&#x153;lies in equipping young people with a distinctive mode of thinking which can be critically applied to the present. Without such a perspective they will have a greatly impoverished sense of the possibilities inherent in the present; they will be unlikely to be able to distinguish between what is ephemeral and what is enduring in present circumstances; and the on-going processes of change unfolding in our own time will be closed to them.â&#x20AC;? â&#x20AC;&#x153;Our national political memory,â&#x20AC;? says Dr Chidi Amuta in his foreword for Adeniyiâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s book, â&#x20AC;&#x153;is short and mostly undocumented, because the political events themselves are suffused in hearsay and myths. Our politicians hardly keep diaries let alone write memoirs. They play it as a game, albeit an unserious one disconnected from any commitment to national history and goals.â&#x20AC;? This is the huge vacuum that Adeniyiâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s book comes to fill in. It will also prompt the key actors of the documented epoch to tell their own version of history, in a way that will elevate and enhance public discourse on leadership, governance, public service and nation building. According to Tosh, â&#x20AC;&#x153;To know that the past can illuminate the contours of the present is to be better equipped to make intelligent decisions about difficult public issues.â&#x20AC;?

Adeniyiâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s book forcefully brings out the lesson that certain things should not be forgotten. In his 2011 Oputa panel book, Witness to Justice, Bishop Matthew Hassan Kukah wittingly crafted the title of the second chapter of his 519-paged book as â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;Do Not Forget To Remember.â&#x20AC;&#x2122; â&#x20AC;&#x153;Nigerians,â&#x20AC;? Kukah argues, â&#x20AC;&#x153;are very forgetful and the result is that this amnesia has contributed to diminishing us as a people.â&#x20AC;? Professor

AFTER ADENIYIâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;S BOOK, NIGERIA CAN NO LONGER REMAIN THE SAME. POLITICIANS MUST LEARN TO PLAY POLITICS WITH DECENCY, HONOUR, RESPECT AND PRINCIPLES; BUT ALSO TO PUT THE LARGER INTERESTS OF THE NATION, OVER AND ABOVE PETTY SELFISH PERSONAL AND PARTISAN INTERESTS

Wole Soyinka captures the same sentiments differently when he says: â&#x20AC;&#x153;We are a nation of short memories.â&#x20AC;? Elsewhere, Soyinka says that, â&#x20AC;&#x153;A people who do not preserve their memory are a people who have forfeited their history.â&#x20AC;? In this light, Adeniyi makes us realise that the battle of memory is a multi-dimensional phenomenon, and because memory shapes life as a whole, the way we choose to relate with those memories is of fundamental significance. That is why the loss of memory is not just the absence of facts; it is the loss of personal identity, family, and friends, indeed, the whole complex of lifeâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s meaning. Our memory liberates us from what Melanchthon, Lutherâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s colleague, called perpetual childhood.

Sadly, as it is often said, the only thing Nigerians learn from history is that they never learn anything from history.

That is why for us, history usually repeats itself as a running mix of tragedy and farce, of hypocrisy and half-truth.

This is perhaps the reason for our continuous repetition of the mistakes of the past. Adeniyiâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s book thus delivers the startling verdict that we cannot continue to be hideous of the lessons of our own troubled history. For Adeniyi, memory becomes a moral imperative, a means of ensuring that we do not quickly forget the past and its lessons, both for political actors and for the country as a whole. The verdict of Dr. Chidi Amuta on this matter cuts across the grain of truth: â&#x20AC;&#x153;Collective amnesia is the hallmark of a bad political culture. Yet, when politicians forget what happened before, the tendency is for them to make the same mistakes over and over. And Nigerian politics suffers from a disturbing epidemic of chronic amnesia. We forget what we choose not to remember in order to take advantage of the loopholes in the present.â&#x20AC;?

In a nation where very little documentation is done to preserve collective memory and the inner workings of politics, Adeniyi has done us a world of service for his unusual insight in painstakingly documenting the core human and institutional factors that shape our political evolution.

Students of politics, history, sociology, law and anthropology, especially the younger generation of Nigerians who aspire to public life in this difficult and complex country, will find the book a ready stimulant for understanding the fascination, dangers, prospects and challenges of public service. As the book continues to generate honest, critical and intelligent conversation on the future of our country Nigeria, â&#x20AC;&#x153;those who seek to understand the pitfalls of power within the context of a multi-ethnic and multi-religious African countryâ&#x20AC;? must also find its hidden lessons.

After Adeniyiâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s book, Nigeria can no longer remain the same. Politicians must learn to play politics with decency, honour, respect and principles; but also to put the larger interests of the nation, over and above petty selfish personal and partisan interests.

Ojeifo is a Catholic priest of the Archdiocese of Abuja

BISI AKANDE AND BUHARIâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;S HEALTH Saleh Joseph Tambari argues that Akandeâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s statement is misguided

F

ormer interim chairman of the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC), Chief Bisi Akande dropped a bomb on Monday, when he issued a statement alleging that some people close to the countryâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s power hub, Aso Rock, are â&#x20AC;&#x153;playing politics with the health of the President.â&#x20AC;?

Chief Akande warned that those who wish to harvest political gains out of the health of Mr. President are mistaken. â&#x20AC;&#x153;This is not 1993,â&#x20AC;? he fumed.

The question begging for answer from Chief Akandeâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s vituperations is who are the people playing politics with the presidentâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s health and is the presidentâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s health condition really as bad as he tried to impress? We know that just on Tuesday, President Buhari was in the office as early as 8:00 am and had an hour-long meeting with the Group Managing Director of the NNPC, Dr. Maikanti Baru. He also attended to the nationâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Attorney General and Minister of Justice, Abubakar Malami.

The wife of the President, Mrs. Aisha Buhari also issued a statement, Tuesday, telling Nigerians that her husbandâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s health condition is not as serious as being exaggerated by mischief makers.

Therefore, why did the former APC Chairman, a party elder and one of few stakeholders that are very close to the president making such a big issue about the presidentâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s health? The answer

is not farfetched, if we look at where the chief is coming from. Like most politicians from the Southwest, Chief Akande joined the APC as a product of one of the defunct legacy parties â&#x20AC;&#x201C; ACN led by Party leader, Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu.

It is therefore safe to conclude that Chief Akande was speaking on behalf of the Jagaban who, unfortunately seem to be jostling to take over power, even when President Buhari is still well enough to discharge his functions. That the president missed Friday prayers and FEC meeting does not translate to incapacity.

Equating the current situation in the Villa to the annulment of the June 12, 1993 elections is to say the least, rolling out political war drums.

If we recall, the nullification of that election in which late Chief MKO Abiola was presumed the winner, drowned the IBB regime and brought in an interim Government led by Chief Ernest Shonekan who, lasted only few months before General Sani Abacha took over.

If Chief Akande is doing a hatchet job for Asiwaju Bola Tinubu, then they are both making a big mistake. Nobody can constitute an interim government when the incumbent president has neither resigned nor is incapacitated. It is most unfortunate that the two senior stakeholders of the party and their co-travellers would contemplate such a disgusting thought of doom

against the president who virtually handed over power to the Asiwaju from day one. All you need is to reflect on federal appointments made so far, and that is in addition to the position of vice-president. Who are those ministers that man the powerful and â&#x20AC;&#x153;juicyâ&#x20AC;? ministries? Of course, they are Tinubu associates.

Tinubuâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s desperation for power did not start today. It could be traced back to the APC pre-merger talks. He courted virtually all the major stakeholders of the party and was able to pin President Buhari to choose him as his running mate, until when as he admitted in the book â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;Against The Run of Play,â&#x20AC;&#x2122; authored by Segun Adeniyi, that Senate President Bukola Saraki and Kaduna State, Governor, Nasir el-Rufai put spanner in his wheel. It is also not a secret that Tinubu is contributory to the conflict between the executive and the National Assembly.

Chief Bola Ahmed Tinubu has been, since May 29, 2015 and continues to be President Buhariâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s political albatross. But he is not alone. The cabal in the Villa headed by the presidentâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s all-powerful nephew, Mamman Daura is also a cog in the presidentâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s wheel of progress. They contributed little to the winning of the APC at the general polls, but have become the major beneficiaries of the Buhari presidency.

They misled the president into believing that he can go it alone; that he won the election not

because of the coalition and contributions of other stakeholders, but by the sheer popularity of the president (SAK). Those who invested their time and money to nurture the APC in their respective states and constituencies have been jettisoned by the president for the cabal. In fact, at one time he told APC Governors that he will not honour their request for appointments, and he didnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t.

It does not therefore come as a surprise now that when he is in need of political support, the APC governors and other senior stakeholders are busy meeting and consulting on life after â&#x20AC;&#x153;an ailing Buhari.â&#x20AC;? like Asiwaju Bola Tinubu, they are also scheming at how to benefit from the presidentâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s poor health condition. The old hawks that dominated the affairs of this country for over three decades â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Obasanjo, IBB and Abubakar reportedly met on Monday in Minna to discuss the presidentâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s health situation.

President Buhari himself does not help matters by running his government at snail speed. It takes forever, for a simple action to be taken or appointments made. He gives the impression as if he is not capable of leading, and in todayâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s world, action speaks louder than words. He should be seen more and act more. Majority of Nigerians are still with him and know that illness does not kill; only those whose time is up that return to their lord from just a simple headache.

Tambari wrote from Kaduna

13

ÍžË&#x153; ͺ͸͚Ϳ Ëž THISDAY, THE SATURDAY NEWSPAPER

INSIGHT

How healthy?

May Day: Beyond Symposia and Parades

Lai Mohammed and Jollof Rice War

T

he Minister of Information and Culture, Alhaji Lai Mohammed appeared on a live CNN programme anchored by Richard Quest recently. During the interview, Alhaji Mohammed was asked which country makes the most delicious Jollof rice in Africa. To the surprise and disappointment of many Nigerians, (or maybe not) the minister said â&#x20AC;&#x153;Senegalâ&#x20AC;?.

It was like a hot slap across the face of many Nigerians who bothered with his response. Richard Quest came back after the commercial break to clarify that what the minister heard was â&#x20AC;&#x153;which country did Jollof rice originate fromâ&#x20AC;?? Well, Nigerians will find it hard and impossible to forgive or forget this kind of â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;mishearâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;.

The discussion has been on the front burner for a long time now to the extent that it is always on the â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;menuâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; when the citizens of different countries in West Africa, especially Nigerians and Ghanaians, engage in some sort of debate regarding which country does better in music, dance, food, making women happy, etc. Nigeria had always carried the day on the Jollof rice issue, until the minister joined in the debate and gave the prize to Senegal!

Interestingly, Senegal has never, to the best of this writerâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s knowledge, claimed any superior taste in this delicacy. So, how did the minister end up with Senegal as his first choice and not his country Nigeria? To cut him some slack, the honourable minister was right as regards the origin of Jollof rice for according to a Wikipedia source, Jollof rice is from the Senegambia region.

That said, a different look into this pot of controversy obviously puts Alhaji Lai Mohammed in the [hot] soup: he is supposed to be in the frontline of the campaign for buy and use madein-Nigeria goods as part of the efforts to, at least, strengthen the naira. As the chief marketing officer of Nigeria, therefore, the minister is always expected to appreciate the sensibilities of image making efforts of his country, and the issues in the public sphere, especially this kind of issue that borders on national pride. How he missed that opportunity comes with a different cost to the burning collective issues of our national life!

Anyway, the Jollof rice debate rages online. Feast on the comments below from a Nigerian, a Ghanaian and a Senegalese. Gideon Aduku, a Ghanaian who lives in Ghana wrote on April 8, 2015, â&#x20AC;&#x153;According to a lot of sources, Jollof rice is originally called Benachin which in Wolof means â&#x20AC;&#x153;one potâ&#x20AC;?.

The info on Wikipedia was recently updated stating that Jollof has Nigerian roots, which is strange because the Wolof people are sometimes referred to

as Jolof people. I strongly believe Jollof originates from Senegal/Gambia because of its name of course and if Nigerians or we Ghanaians can explain exactly why it is called that, it would very much help. As it stands now, no one has actual evidence except a sense of national entitlement that Jollof rice originates from their country. It would be difficult to point out the exact country of origin because of the lack of reliable documented information and for the fact that most of the people who answer or will answer may be biased. Please letâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s be honest guys.

But I must add: the origin of the dish does not determine the final taste, because I can confidently say to you, after years of painstaking research, that Jollof from Ghana is the best.â&#x20AC;?

Defe Aleladia, a Nigerian who lives in Houston, Texas USA: â&#x20AC;&#x153;In the earliest days of civilisation, when man first set foot on the beautiful, wide and rich landscape we call Africa, the gods and goddesses of old endowed their people with a gift known as Jollof.

Sacred and holy, the people protected Jollof with all their might and selected a group of a certain lineage to guard and protect the secrets of Jollof.

Victor Ikem, Lagos

M

ay Day has become synonymous with the history of struggles by owners of labour wage earners in the capitalist money economy controlled by owners of capital and means of production. It is against this backdrop that every country within the capitalist orbit performs the annual ritual of speeches and display of fanfare while the real issues of exploitation, pejorative work place and declining workersâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; wages and welfare suffer at the back bench.

This yearâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s May Day ritual seems a drastic shift when one takes a reflective appraisal of the theme of the symposium that has become an integral part of the annual ritual over time. Considering the arrays of labour activists on the list of invited guest speakers and discussants for this yearâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s symposium, we noticed a paradigm shift in tone and commitment to plan of action. The cerebral Professor Omotoye Olorode presented the guest lecture while the indefatigable Femi Aborisade and Professor Member Genye are discussants respectively.

Professor Olorodeâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s paper titled â&#x20AC;&#x153;Labour Relations in Economic Recession : An Appraisal â&#x20AC;&#x153; was a bombshell detonated to wake the working class from its slumber since the return to democracy.

T H E S AT U R DAY N E W S PA P E R EDITOR SHAKA MOMODU DEPUTY EDITOR YEMI ADEBOWALE MANAGING DIRECTOR ENIOLA BELLO DEPUTY MANAGING DIRECTOR KAYODE KOMOLAFE CHAIRMAN EDITORIAL BOARD OLUSEGUN ADENIYI EDITOR NATIONâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;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: ďŹ rst name.surname@thisdaylive.com

It was also a scathing castigation of the Nigeriaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s ruling class that regrouped under another retired General on another political platform to continue to rule Nigeria. He equally reminded the Nigeria Labour Congress that while acknowledging with approval the ongoing anti-corruption war recognises the need for a definitive agenda for economic revival of 2015.

He also reminded the union centres (NLC/TUC) to revisit the formal position of the NLC on the dynamics of the neo-liberal crisis. He affirmed that the trade union movement is best placed to provide leadership in building a just society and sustainable democracy in Nigeria. He assured that, working towards a planned economy is the ultimate alternative. He urged that we want to see an end to industrial backwardness, mass poverty, illiteracy, the collapse of health and social services and institutions, foreign economic dependency, gross exploitation of labour and political dictatorship and instability.

He further stressed that we envision an economy founded on twin-pillars of state-led industrialisation and agricultural development within the context of holistic national development plan. In conclusion, he gave variegated definitions of recession and causes as he tied it to APC Change Agenda and the unchanging agenda of the Nigeriaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s ruling class. He therefore stripped all the confusion and illusions that Nigeriaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s ruling class formations, intellectuals and their media have erected and imposed on the masses of the Nigerian people and itself. He confirmed that the labour movement in Nigeria has insisted from the late 1970s that the agenda of the ruling class and international capital had consistently remained antagonistic to that of the working class people of Nigeria.

He lamented the plight of local productive capacity in the country as shown by the conspiracy that deliberately mismanaged and destabilised Ajaokuta Steel Complex and others established as a foundation of industrialisation of Nigeriaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s economy.

He takes us on a retrospective reflection to recall successive speeches during regime change in Nigeria to grapple with the class character of the ruling class. That capitalist liberal democracy is only but a purgative mechanism that expels a clique of public treasury looters with another through party politics.

Comrade Ogbu A. Ameh, author of â&#x20AC;&#x153;In The Struggleâ&#x20AC;? and Editorial Member, Socialist Worker

14

T H I S D AY SATURDAY MAY 6, 2017

37

416

44

519

- &(" &% &% & %% ) +( +! &) ( ) -) ) %&- ) &- % &% ( % '# * &($) &##&- % &% *) , (/ )+ )) +# # +% % &, ( &+%*( ) % * (( *&( ) % #+ % * % * % &$ )* )* % %*( # +(&' # )* &(* ( % * % * * * ) * ## % * )*&( ) % .' ( % ) & +% () (, &$$+% * ) )' ##/ & * ( % &%* % %* - # &, ( % ))+ ) & * / % -&(# , %*) * * $ ** (

#& # -) %* (* %$ %* , (/ +#*+( , (/ % # --- ( ) *,

15

THISDAY, THE SATURDAY NEWSPAPER Ëž ÍžË&#x153; ͺ͸͚;

NEWS

News Editor Ă&#x2019;Ă&#x2039;Ă&#x2014;Ă?Ă?Ă&#x;Ă&#x2013;Ă&#x2039; Ă&#x2018;Ă&#x152;Ă&#x; ͸Î&#x20AC;͚͚͞ͿͽΠÎ&#x20AC;͚͸ Ě&#x2122;sms only) Email Ă&#x2039;Ă&#x2019;Ă&#x2039;Ă&#x2014;Ă?Ă?Ă&#x;Ă&#x2013;Ă&#x2039;Ë&#x203A;Ă&#x2122;Ă&#x2018;Ă&#x152;Ă&#x;ĚśĂ&#x17E;Ă&#x2019;Ă&#x201C;Ă?Ă&#x17D;Ă&#x2039;ĂŁĂ&#x2013;Ă&#x201C;Ă Ă?Ë&#x203A;Ă?Ă&#x2122;Ă&#x2014;

UNICEF: 3,900 Nigerian Children Died from Boko Haram Crises

Senator Iroegbu in Abuja and Michael Olugbode in Maiduguri The United Nations Childrenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Fund UNICEF has said that no fewer than 3900 children have been killed in north-east Nigeria as a result of combined actions of Boko Haramâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s insurgency in the region and security forces.

This is as seven persons were reported killed in a suicide attack on Konduga, a Borno town, the police said on Friday. Two of the dead were suicide bombers while the rest were victims.

The police in a statement by the Assistant Public Relations Officer in charge of Borno Police Command, Murtala Ibrahim stated that two of the dead were suicide bombers and the other five were innocent citizens.

This is the conclusion of the first â&#x20AC;&#x153;Report of the Secretary-General on children and armed conflict in Nigeriaâ&#x20AC;? (S/2017/304), released on Thursday, which documents the impact on children of the severe deterioration of the security and humanitarian situation in the country between January 2013 and December 2016 â&#x20AC;&#x153;With tactics including widespread recruitment and use, abductions, sexual violence, attacks on schools and the increasing use of children in socalled â&#x20AC;&#x153;suicideâ&#x20AC;? attacks, Boko Haram has inflicted unspeakable horror upon the children of Nigeriaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s north-east and neighbouring countries,â&#x20AC;&#x153; declared Virginia Gamba, Special Representative of the Secretary-General for Children and Armed Conflict.

Gamba however, commended the Government of Nigeria for the measures already adopted and their collaboration with the UN to improve

I SHARE IN YOUR GRIEF...

L-R: The deceased son, Oluwatofarati; widow, Ronke; and daughter, Abisola, with Oyo State Governor, Senator Abiola Ajimobi, during the interment of the late DirectorGeneral of the Development Agenda for Western Nigeria, Mr. Dipo Famakinwa, at the Ikoyi Vault and Gardens, Lagos... on Friday.

PHOTO: Governor's OďŹ&#x192;ce the protection of children. She called upon the authorities to ensure that all boys and girls were provided with the necessary support and services to facilitate their reintegration into their communities.

She said: "During the reporting period, attacks by Boko Haram on

communities and confrontations between the group and security forces resulted in at least 3,900 children killed and 7,300 more maimed. Suicide attacks became the second leading cause of child casualties, accounting for over one thousand deaths and 2,100 injuries

during the reporting period. The Secretary-Generalâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s report strongly condemns grave violations against children committed by Boko Haram and urges the group to cease all such violations immediately.

"The UN verified the recruitment and use of 1,650 children. However,

estimates indicate that thousands more could have been recruited and used by Boko Haram since 2009, with credible accounts of children as young as four years old associated with the group."

She said that testimonies from children separated from Boko

Haram indicate that many were abducted, but that others joined the group due to financial incentives, peer pressure, familial ties and for ideological reasons. In some instances, parents gave up their children to obtain security guarantees or for economic gain.

Ondo, Ogun, Lagos Attacks: Military At Last, Chime Formally Joins APC, Continues Raid on Militants' Hideouts Rules Out Rift with Nnamani Emmanuel Addeh in Yenagoa The Military said on Friday that it was continuing its operations in Ajakpa, Ese-Odo local council, Ondo State, to rout militants who had been using the area as a base to launch attacks in Ondo, Ogun and Lagos States.

Yesterdayâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s update followed the killing earlier in the week, of wanted Ossy Ibori and several of his men during a violent encounter with soldiers attached to the Joint Taskforce, Operation Delta Safe, in the creeks of Ese-Odo. Ibori, 40, and his gang, the military said, were responsible for the abduction of some staff and students of Lagos State Model College, Igbonla , Epe, the kidnap of three school girls at Babington Macaulay Junior Seminary School in Ikorodu , the abduction of four Landlords in Isheri and the forcible seizure of the Oniba of Ibaland, Oba Goriola Oseni.

The gang also carried out several bank robberies in Lagos and Ogun, killed an army captain and two policemen in Ikorodu and murdered a pregnant woman and

his baby during an operation in Festac, Lagos State. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Following that successful operation, our troops carried out a raid operation to clear remnants of miscreants/militant camps, shrines and hideouts used as safe haven were cleared. It is believed that they are proceeds of criminality. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Meanwhile, arrests were made and some quantities of items of munitions were recovered. It was believed that remaining militants fled when their leader was killed in action. â&#x20AC;&#x153;But we will continue to maintain our presence in the general area in order to deter and apprehend all unrepentant criminals terrorising the peace loving people of the communitiesâ&#x20AC;?, Rear Admiral Apochi Suleiman, Commander of OPDS, told journalists at a media briefing in Yenagoa, the JTF headquarters yesterday.

He also announced the reopening of the waterways in the area which was blocked by the militants, and vowed to go after the remaining followers of the late Ibori. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Our troops have also successfully unblocked Ajakpa - Bolowo

waterways which had been blocked

by Ossy Ibori's gang for the past 4 months.

It is now cleared and opened for free flow of water navigation by the general publicâ&#x20AC;?, Rear Admiral Suleiman said.

Against the earlier reported death of one soldier during the operation, the Commander disclosed that the actual number could not yet be ascertained, stressing that the militants opened fire on his men , some of whom were still receiving treatment in military hospitals.

He added, â&#x20AC;&#x153;I condole with the families of our fallen heroes, who paid the supreme price in the course of maintaining peace and security in this operation. They were dedicated, gallant, laden with vigour and determination to protect their fatherland. I assure you that their sacrifice will never be in vainâ&#x20AC;?

Flanked by commanders of the Maritime, Land components of the taskforce, the police, officials of the Department of State Services and the Prisons Service, the Commander acknowledged that many of the militants had fled, but added that the military was going after them.

Christopher Isiguzo in Enugu Barring any unforseen circumstance, former Governor of Enugu State, Sullivan Chime will today (Saturday) formally register as a member of the All Progressives Congress (APC), a party he had already vowed to facilitate its victory in the state by 2019.

The former governor had sometime in March resigned his membership of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) even as he declared the party dead in view of the leadership crisis that engulfed it since the inception of the present administration.

Checks by THISDAY showed that party leaders in the state led by the chairman, Dr. Ben Nwoye are in high spirit to receive the former governor into the party like they did to other notable politicians including former Senate President, Ken Nnamani and governor of old Anambra State, Senator Jim Nwobodo.

Chime had during a pre-defection press briefing vowed to ensure that his new party clinched the governorship of the state. He also disclosed that he had no personal rift with his

predecessor, Chimaraoke Nnamani.

He however did not spare the Deputy Senate President, Ike Ekweremadu who he accused of sponsoring protests and campaign of calumny against him with the sole intention of stopping his inevitable defection to the APC. He also used the forum to dismiss as false and mischievous, recent claims

by Ekweremadu that he did not provide appointments to people from his Aninri council during his reign as governor.

The former governor maintained that â&#x20AC;&#x153;if things continue this way in 2019, I can assure you that APC will be in government. APC will take over government in Enugu State; what I cannot tell you now is who the candidate will be but anybody running as PDP candidate will be wasting his time. â&#x20AC;&#x153;There is going to be an election in Anambra State this year and the PDP may not even have a candidate; the Anambra election will teach them a lesson. Every serious politician in Anambra has already moved; I expect Peter Obi to end up in APC if he still wants to be politically active. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Letâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s not speculate what will

happen between now and then but I can assure that the change has come to Enugu State; PDP is now part of history in Enugu State.â&#x20AC;?

Chime, who spoke on a wide range of issues, equally decried the level of negative media reports against him, which he insisted were totally sponsored.

He said: â&#x20AC;&#x153;In about four weeksâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; time, it will be exactly two years since I left office. Between then and now, a lot has been said about me, mostly negative. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Most of the stories were being sponsored by whoever. I decided to stay away not just from the media but from politics. But events have formed me out from retirement. â&#x20AC;&#x153;A lot has happened and not too long ago, I announced my resignation from that party, the PDP. Technically, you can say I left the party but actual fact, the party left me. â&#x20AC;&#x153;The party left me because the party introduced to me in 1999 no longer exists; that party no longer exists; that party was badly run down, mismanaged; the party abandoned its constitution that used to guide us.

The party eventually came to where it is today- dead. It is no longer a functional party.

16

T H I S D AY SATURDAY MAY 6, 2017

...introducing

LIFE LESSONS WITH AYO AROWOLO

“TREAT YOUR ...

AS YOUR MOST IMPORTANT ASSET”

It could be costly to learn from your own errors, Would you you not rather learn from the mistakes of the masters, those who have accomplished you struggling omplished what yo ou are strugg gling to make happen.

Grab your own copy of every Sunday, ay, as w wee feature weekly, uncommon kly, unco ommon lessons from those who h have av ve seen seen it it all. alll.

Find out who o our mystery guest guesst is is tomorrow! tomorrrow! www.thisdaylive.com

Plus

LOUD WHISPERS pg. 20 POLSCOPE pg. 22 TRAVEL pg. 24 AUTO pg. 26 GLOBAL SOCCER pg. 29 FASHION FILE pg. 41

Athanasius Achonu

I Became a Soldier at the Age of Nine

18

THISDAY, THE SATURDAY NEWSPAPER MAY 6, 2017

PLUS

As a Young Man I Beat Up Six Policemen for Bullying Kids His signature beard is unmistakable in the crowd; always dressed to the nines in his trademark traditional attire, designed by his Hausa wife.

And that comes with other expensive designer accessories that ooze class, style and panache.

His style is classy. Senator Athanasius Achonu doesn’t betray any sign of being a power broker.

A workaholic whose vision is to attain the right attitude and altitude; the strength of his vision, coupled with the drive to succeed pushed him to contest the senatorial seat in his native Imo State with a view to economically and culturally revolutionise his constituency. He tells Adedayo Adejobi about how he became a soldier at the age of nine, the story behind his signature beard, love for fast cars, luxury designer brands, marriage and fatherhood The Achonus

A

s a notable stakeholder in the Peoples Democratic Party, a major issue is the internal wrangling in the party. Will PDP ever get out of this quagmire?

Democracy is at play.

PDP is the only democratic party, because it’s not owned by anybody.

During any transition, there is always a tussle for power. When the party stabilises, it will run very smoothly. As president, you are the party leader. When you are no longer president, you are a floor member.

As chairman, you are the most powerful person in the party; but the moment your tenure expires, you become a floor member. That is why there is tussle for power.

The infraction has thrown up many issues that have brought up innovations to make one marvel. For Sheriff, I am surprised; even Makarfi is not the chairman of the Peoples Democratic Party. I have confidence that the right thing would be done.

The party is supposed to be a strong opposition, but it seems to have lost its voice?

PDP is a strong party. APC (All Progressives Congress) is in disarray and not united. Look at what they did to Bola Ahmed Tinubu despite his efforts. He gave them victory and they side-lined him.

Within the core North, they are divided.

I don’t have any fear at all although they have been rigging elections. Look at what happened in Edo State, Ondo State and

even my own election in which I defeated my opponent in his own polling booth; they turned everything around. I brought results from all polling units certified

by INEC showing that I won. This is a country where my opponent stopped my election, chartered a tipper loaded with thugs that surrounded a government institution like INEC and harassed people.

He even said it publicly. We have him on video with the police commissioner present, with INEC officers threatening to strike again should they not let him know who was going to conduct the election.

The police investigated, found him guilty but he hasn’t been prosecuted.

If you are to analyse the current administration’s anti-corruption crusade, what will be your position?

The APC is an ad hoc arrangement where ministers are selected as compensation for those who made getting into power possible. In doing that, the President believes in a particular inner caucus. We waited so long time for that ministerial list and thought Buhari would bring in technocrats. When the list came out, everybody was disappointed.

We’ll think by now he would have compensated those people adequately. If he doesn’t do something dramatic for this country, then he would have failed. I have a lot of respect for his wife. She raised the alarm early enough and I am happy his family is intact. I am looking forward to a re-shuffling that would put square pegs

in square holes and move this country forward. Nigeria has abundant intelligent people, and I can tell you the Vice President made some intelligent moves.

Why does an Igbo Presidency seem so far-fetched?

It will divide Nigeria completely and explode this place. The Igbo have a right to be President if they want. Nigerian Igbo must be president, if not, there would be no Nigeria and that is the sentiment on the ground. I was a soldier at the age of nine and now I can’t do it anymore. Can’t you see that boys are coming out to be shot and killed? They don’t care; because what are you living for when you do not have any right as a human being? There is no need to live. They don’t know how to keep it until it explodes.

Away from politics, how will you describe your childhood and what shaped you?

Let’s wait till my book comes out. I don’t want to expose it yet.

What is the story behind your signature beard?

I was trapped in Paris. During that time when there was so much snow in Paris and planes were not taking off. I went from London to Milan to look at the company that was building my furniture.

When I got there, I was trapped and couldn’t fly back to London from Milan for two days. I had travelled with only one

cloth, so I used bed sheet to cover myself while the hotel dry-cleaned the cloth for the next day. As I couldn’t continue, I boarded a train to Paris thinking that I would cross through the English Channel of the underground train where I stopped because everywhere was frozen. So I was stuck. One of my cousins in London then used his car to bring my luggage to Paris.

He even had to use ferry to transport his car to Paris. By the time he got to me, I had started growing bears and he liked it.

I also looked into the mirror and I liked it so I just trimmed it. Immediately I got home, my daughter said I shouldn’t shave it because she loved it. I said, okay if my daughter loves it who am I? I have to keep it. My wife also fell in love with it and I said then it is complete. This means that they wanted me to look like an old man, most especially my wife. I don’t know whether it is because of her Fulani and Islamic background.

What does it feel like being a father and a husband?

Family is everything. My wife has not been here with me for up to three weeks, and this has turned my life upside-down because it has been all work and work.

I don’t sleep at nights because I am always on Face-time with her in America.

Although it was the climax when my blood pressure rose sharply at the time I was thinking whether or not to go to the United Kingdom. If I don’t see or talk to my kids, I fall sick. Maybe my parents

MAY 6, 2017 ˾ THISDAY, THE SATURDAY NEWSPAPER

19

PLUS

Achonu in the warm embrace of family

Family is everything. My wife has not been here with me for up to three weeks, and this has turned my life upside-down because it has been all work and work. I don’t sleep at nights because I am always on Face-time with her in America.

Although it was the climax when my blood pressure rose sharply at the time I was thinking whether or not to go to the United Kingdom. If I don’t see or talk to my kids, I fall sick. Maybe my parents were married forever and the harmony in my family is unbelievable. I think it has to do with the background because my family members were so close Without My Wife and Children, Life is Upside-down for Me were married forever and the harmony in my family is unbelievable. I think it has to do with the background because my family members were so close.

When you see your kids what do they remind you of your childhood?

It is not the same thing because I grew up with Biafra, with bombs falling all over the place. I grew up trying to design and that was how I became innovative. I can bring solutions to almost every problem.

At the age of nine, I designed a bunker that was under a cassava mound a child can stay and breathe. The wife of a native doctor in my village came to our farm and she was hearing voices, she screamed and started running and shouting ‘ghost, ghost!’ We then came out from the ground trying to rush to her that we were the ones but she screamed the more.

You come across as a creative person what caused that?

My ex-wife used to think I was crazy when we were married because every 3am, I would wake up and begin to wonder why people couldn’t see solution to a problem. Instead, they beat around the bush and I got so angry and sometimes would start crying because it looked so stupid. I then wondered if such people were educated. We’ve seen people who lived in England and America shouting

Nigeria is not doing well. The moment they get home, they get worse. That is why you have Boko Haram. Can’t you see Islamic states in other places are not condemning Western education? The people are tired of seeing the problem and educated ones are supposed to know better.

Could your restless spirit be what spurred you into politics?

I was wondering why there is kidnapping, Boko Haram and the likes. I decided to explain to my person that there are good people who will come and work and deliver the goods and that if we stop electing criminals every four years, our society will begin to improve. That is why I ran for the Senate.

There has been disquiet among the judges over the proposed appointment of lawyers in the Supreme Court?...

In every society when you have challenges, you begin to look for solution.

I am sure this is done so that judges would be able to sit up. There is a lot of corruption in the judiciary and there are credible people there also. That is why you have renowned lawyers that are men of integrity and have proven themselves and the society respects them. There is nothing wrong in appointing them as judges. I don’t think judges should fight it. It would

make the judiciary sit up. We want people who can’t be bought in the Court of Appeal and the Supreme Court. Before, when you see a judge you would tremble. You could not stand anyhow before a judge in the olden days.

You have so much hope in this country even when the odds are against it. Why? Nigeria is one of the richest countries on earth. There is no mineral resource that we don’t have. It is just for us to come together and change the mediocre leadership and that is all. We have thinking people we can put in the right position.

Is there anything you would like to change about your childhood if you had the chance?

Even if I come to the world 10 times, I would not have had any regret. I believe everything that happened to me is an act of God and it has always moved and made me stronger. Even the things that people felt would drag me down always make me stronger. I want my lovely daughter to grow up to be a very strong personality, to champion the course of people’s freedom of choice and equal opportunities. We have a movement called ‘Freedom Train’.

Where did you get your die-hard spirit from and how did you cope as a child?

I was a rebel but only for good causes.

The two fights I ever had in my life in the public were in school. One was with the

labour prefect who was – and still is – a very good friend. He beat up a young boy because the boy wasn’t doing his bidding.

He was wrong and I fought him and knocked him down. The next time was when a policeman used his baton to beat one boy in Jos. I felt it and thought it was me they hit and I fought the six policemen.

I didn’t know what I was doing. In fact, they wanted to dismiss the policemen because they asked how many people beat them and they said it was only me.

You have a penchant for the arts.

When I was in class three, I ran away to become a singer in secondary school. My family came to bring me back. I love music and hope I would be playing and singing with my children. I have my own band with full complement of instruments. On the other side in the parlour, you will see a saxophone, a guitar and a violin.

Which of the instrument do you love most?

I want to play the saxophone; I love it so very much.

So what kind of music do you listen to?

Everything; I listen to good music; once it is good for the soul, it is good for me.

But orchestral groups do come and play here for me.

20

THISDAY, THE SATURDAY NEWSPAPER ˾ MAY 6, 2017 with JOSEPH EDGAR (09095325791)

LOUD WHISPERS

Oba Rilwan Akiolu

Oba Rilwan Akiolu: In His Majesty’s Defence As I am writing this piece, the news of the fire outbreak at the Oba’s palace is being reported. You see, the Oba who I hold in the highest esteem caused a mini-firestorm when it was reported that he snubbed my friend, His Royal Majesty, the Ooni of Ife. People who do not understand these things went up in arms calling for the Oba’s head. But the person who was alleged to have been snubbed has come out to restate his highest respect for the Oba of Lagos and his throne. You see, we like wahala too much in this country or why would such an incident which could have gone unnoticed cause so much rancour and debate amongst the citizenry as if the snub would solve the problems in the country?

Busybodies became emergency historians, coming out with all sorts of ratings and rankings showing the Ooni’s position in the hierarchy of kings with the Oba of Lagos not even appearing on most lists. One list even went ahead to publish their salaries and in all of these lists, my annoyance was the absence of the seat of the Dukedom of Shomolu. If I start my own now, they will say I am a terrorist. But today, it’s not about me, but about the need for us as a people to learn how not to dwell on trivialities and focus on the more pressing issues of nation building. While on this matter, let me restate my admiration for the Ooni and the way he handled the snub. In Shomolu, we call people like His Majesty, ‘ogbologbo’. I tell you, if you watch the video, you will see the speed with which he backed off from the Oba of Lagos. Go back and watch in slow motion, you will see how as he moved towards the Oba and the Oba raising his hand, the Ooni with full speed, quickly turned and headed for his seat. If not that we are all amebos and olofofo, we could have all missed it, because the Ooni was very swift and calculating. Another thing again that impressed me was the smile that was etched on his face as he made his detour without breaking a sweat. What I thought would be of more interest to people was the Baba who used his whitegleaming Agbada to clean the chair the Ooni was to seat on before he embarked on his now futile attempt at greeting the ‘Owner of Lagos’ and all the lagoons that come with it. For me, this was a storm in a tea cup and we should not have wasted our time as a nation on this matter. The Oba’s people and his admirers have given so many reasons for this action and I think the most accepted one was the one that talked about glaucoma. Yes, that is the one I have chosen to believe, the Oba did not see who was coming towards him. Next time the very beautiful Olori, the one who is cousin to my friend Jennifer should go in first for the greetings. With that, I believe we would not have issues like this that has even caused the naira to crash further. Yeye.

Covenant University: A Joke Gone Bad You see, me I have never believed in this school or what it stands for. I have visited the school, interacted with its students and even dated a few. The stories of wanton limitations to the statutes of liberty and other freedoms etched in our constitution continue to intrigue me. If you meet these students you will pity them. That place is a glorified secondary school run with archaic laws that would make inmates at the famed Kiri Kiri prisons shudder with fear. The

President Buhari

Lai Mohammed

Segun Adeniyi: Let us Ignore that Book Don’t mind me o, this headline is aimed at catching your attention. You see, the idea is to get you to send me a signed copy of this very seminal book or otherwise how would I get you to do that if I do not get your attention with this catchy but utterly misleading headline? You see, Mr, Adeniyi, you and one man they used to call Chidi Emutchay and Ndaeyo Uko who used to write for The Guardian those days are the people who inspired me into wanting to be a columnist and today I have overtaken you guys with the level of influence I wield in this our chosen field. Just go and ask them in Shomolu. Seriously, I have always admired your writings especially the sweet-flowing style in which you deliver your usually wellthought out contexts. Sir, I used to know Mßadam, when she was working in an insurance firm in Lagos.

She is light in complexion, tall and beautiful. I have even met you before, yes na at the Musa Yar’Adua Centre in Abuja. You were wearing one tight, blue jeans like that and a white T-shirt with glasses on your face. We talked about everything and you hugged me telling me that I was a great writer and that you saw a Nobel in my future. Well, I think after me, you are

reported case of the suspension of students for not attending a church programme once again brings to light this issue of how the school is being run. Granted, it is an institution built on very strong Christian ethos and the students are pre-warned before getting their admissions, but this should not in any way mean that basic freedoms of movement, association and in some cases speech be limited for whatever reasons. To the best of my knowledge, a university campus should be a centre for the fluid inter-flow of ideas and thoughts from all perspectives in a bid to build, mould and expose its students. One school

the greatest living columnist and essayist of your generation, you remain the singular most influential thinker that has come out of your village and I am sure you will continue to wield so much influence and power for a long time to come. Or how do you explain the way people who are usually very hard to get sitting down and telling you all these things that are in your book? The level of access you have shown in this book can only come from juju. See the people you spoke to, Kai, Tinubu, Jonathan, all these heavy weights and juggernauts falling all over themselves to speak to you. You remain my hero and although I am a better writer, you have won my respect and complete adulation. It is in this regard, that I am now officially requesting for a signed copy of your book or why do you think I have been hailing you like this? Please if you do not mind, let me know how to come and collect the book, my brother in-law is on standby to meet you anywhere in this world to collect the book. Sir, if you do not mind, before releasing the Book, kindly ask him to take a picture of you with the book for my archives. Well sir, while awaiting your speedy response, let me say congratulations and well done.

of thought should not be forced down their throats simply because they have chosen this particular school to attend. So why would an Easter programme be compulsory and why should abstaining lead to such draconian punishment as reported.

The school and its regulatory bodies must guarantee the basic freedoms of every citizen no matter his persuasion or affiliation. The students must be free to worship and associate without any compulsion whatsoever. For me, a university with time for lights out especially at the female hostel is not a university. The government should seize this opportunity to look critically at

these issues especially as it concerns the freedoms in and around the female hostel of this school urgently. A panel should be set up to look at the matter and I promise, I will be the first to make a submission; we must liberate not only the students of Covenant University from the shackles of pseudo-judaistic limitations, we must pay specific attention to the immediate and urgent lifting of all restrictions that surround the female hostel and its occupants.

Na that one concern me.

President Buhari : Your Health Comes First Let me first start by sending you my very best wishes. I was the happiest person when I saw news reports just as I was about to write this that you are back on the beat and you had even held some meetings. My Lord, please do not listen to these people talking all over the place o. Your health matters and should come first. You are not a superman o, you remain as human as the rest of us and as such any small headache must be treated o. Do not listen to people o, if you want to work from your toilet as long as it will augur well for your health, please you can gladly work from there. All these noise makers, in their private businesses when they fall ill, they take days off, do not appear in the office and yes, take files home. So why should your own be different? Baba, please do not joke with your health o. Take your doctors’ advice anytime they give it, take your medication, rest and spend more time in the other room as long as you want. You cannot solve all the problems of Nigeria in four years, Abeg take am slowly, corruption will not finish today, na our culture. Meanwhile, have you tried ‘agbo’? It works wonders o. The next time you feel under the weather just try it mixed with the strongest kaikai and you will see the wonderful effect. Sir, you will live long for us. Did I just sound sycophantic?

Lai Mohammed, Richard Quest and the Case of the Stolen Jollof Rice The question was who makes the best jollof rice and the answer caused a major national upheaval. Well, this Richard Quest and his funny ways sef. Why would he ask that kind question in the first place? Is that what he came here to do? If that is it, he should not come again o. But seriously, the answer to that question was wrong in so many ways. First, Senegal does not even come into the ranking when the question of jollof rice comes up. I swear, the answer is Ghana. Simple. You guys can shout and jump up and tear your clothes as much as you want to, the answer is simply Ghana.

There is nothing patriotic about this at all, the truth must be said. As one who has eaten in a lot of bukas across the west coast of Africa and suffered for it with regular bouts of cholera and dysentery, I want to state equivocally that the Ghanaian version gives me less dysentery than the other ones. The Nigerian version while still tasteful depending on who is cooking comes second with fewer times in the toilet and the Senegalese version comes a distant fourth after the Liberian version which in my mind’s eye contains more condiments than the rest with nothing to show in the taste. The next time, Richard or anybody wants to know anything about local food or buka restaurant, he should ask the real experts and not uncle Lai. Where is Olisa Adibua in all of this?

T H I S D AY SATURDAY MAY 6, 2017

21

22

THISDAY, THE SATURDAY NEWSPAPER Ëž Y 6, 2017

POLSCOPE

with Eddy Odivwri eddy.odivwri@thisdaylive.com 08053069356

Who Needs a Consultant to Clear Grass?

I

t was Malcom X, the Black American activist who once asked: â&#x20AC;&#x153;Why do otherwise wise men become foolish when they join government?â&#x20AC;?

I have followed, with good interest, the grass cutting saga involving the suspended Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF) Mr David Babachir Lawal. The latest exposĂŠ on it is the final report of the senate ad hoc committee which investigated the humanitarian crisis in the north east.

If Nigerians were shocked that the sum of N270 million was used to clear grass in a certain IDP camp in Yobe State, they are now perplexed hearing now that indeed, the sum of N450 million was paid into the Eco Bank account of Lawalâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Rholavision Engineering Ltd, by five different companies which got grass cutting contracts from the suspended SGF. Whatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s more, N200 million had to be separately paid to Lawalâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s company, Rholavision Engineering Ltd, as consultancy fee for the grass cutting contract. Yes, N200 million! And I ask: what kind of consultancy service does a grass cutter need? Is it to teach and guide the grass cutter on how to position the blade of the mower? I scarcely can understand why a grass cutter needs a consultant.

It was further revealed that Josmon Technologies, which got the first grass cutting contract, eventually got another one. And that between March 29, 2016 and April 20, 2016, Josmon Technologies transferred the sum of N317 million to Rholavision Engineering (Lawalâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s company) after clinching grass cutting contracts worth N530.6 million.

Whoever knew that grasscutting is even more lucrative than oil and gas exploration!

The only thing that probably explains the oddity of this contract bureaucracy is that there is intent to defraud the federal government.

It is remarkable that Mr Lawal, an engineer, again shunned the invitation of the senate committee to come defend himself, before the final report was written. I therefore cannot wait to hear what Lawalâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s defence will be on the greasy details of the grass cutting scandal.

It is also stunning to see the figure of N18 million transferred to Rholavision bank account by Messrs Adamawa Boreholes Ltd after collecting contract of N54.8 million said to have been used to â&#x20AC;&#x153;renovateâ&#x20AC;? seven classrooms in Yeskule Girls Secondary School, Michika, in Adamawa State. Gosh! If that much can be used to RENOVATE seven classrooms, how much will be required to build a new school altogether?

Yet one JMT Global Technology Ltd was also said to have kicked-back the sum of N30 million (from its Zenith Bank account number 114357188) to Rholavision Eng Ltd, for the â&#x20AC;&#x153;rehabilitation/renovationâ&#x20AC;? of Adamawa at the cost of N199.4 million.

Yet again, another company which got a contract of N145 million, transferred N71 million to Rholavision account and also transferred another N13 million to Lawalâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s private account at Diamond Bank (account number 0003004417).

One thing clear from all these kick-backs is that the Due Process office is not working. Is it not clear that the contracts are

Lawal so mindlessly over-inflated? Or else how and where will those contractors find as much as they refunded to Lawal and his company?

And that is one bane of government. Money enough to do seven kilometers of road is often used to do just one, that is if the one kilometer gets done at all.

And just as an aside, why is there no federal character applied to the beneficiaries of government contracts? How come no company from the south got any of the Lawalâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s bonanza, sorry, contract? At least in Dasukiâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s â&#x20AC;&#x153;ATM regimeâ&#x20AC;?, it was spread round the entire country.

Did you notice that while just N2 million was spent on the welfare (food and clothing) of the IDPs, N200 million was spent on grass cutting consultancy? Pray, which one is more important to the dying IDPs: a grass-free surrounding or food?

Did we not hear that many of the IDP children were dying out of hunger and malnutrition? Yet a man called David (!) chose to consult on grass cutting for the hungry, not offering them food and water.

The Senator Shehu Sani-led committee had revealed further that apart from the sordid grass cutting deal, Lawal had used his office to commit several breaches, using his 13 bank accounts to run the deals. We must thank the â&#x20AC;&#x153;technologyâ&#x20AC;? of Bank Verification Number (BVN) for unearthing the owners of

those 13 bank accounts.

I am sure that a little more forensic audit of the activities of Mr Lawal while in office would reveal a few more abuses.

The alleged despicable acts of Lawal puts a huge question on the choices President Muhammadu Buhari made in constituting the members of his government. As Shakespeare puts it, â&#x20AC;&#x153;No manâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s construction can be found on his faceâ&#x20AC;Śâ&#x20AC;?

Nobody expected him to pick angels, because there are none among humans, but hey, not one with such odious tendencies, especially for a government that made the fight against corruption a cardinal prism. Was it that Lawal has been so clever all along to shield his fraudulent tendency from Buhari while they remained friends? Or was it Buhari that was just care-free?

Was it the office that corrupted Lawal or was he patently and fundamentally corrupt before he was appointed?

Ordinarily, one would have thought that the first set of appointees of Buhari (which included Lawal) will or should be people of unimpeachable character.

It is perhaps true that President Buhari is a loner in the much-talked about fight against corruption.

If the allegations against Lawal are established, it would have proven that indeed, there is a Judas among every twelve.

Worse still, many Nigerians believe that there is a Lawal in almost all government officials; many of whom are seeking the slightest opportunity to undo government for their own selfish benefits. So, how many Lawals are yet lounging around in government offices and cabinets? Will their day ever come?

With the likes of Lawal permeating every sector of the economyâ&#x20AC;&#x201D;private and public, it is not difficult to understand why Nigeria is still where it is. With just one fellow netting over N500 million from one government project (PINE), how can a nation grow and develop?

Those who have spoken eloquently about the strengthening of institutions will now begin to understand that such so-called institutions are also prone to insider abuses, implying therefore that the human element in every institution cannot be discounted or ignored. Put differently, the institutions do not exist in a vacuum. They are as virile and strong-willed as the human operators allow them to be.

How else can an institution be, if not the very engine room of government: the secretariat of the federal government!

But a cankerworm gets into such an institution and begins to disable the very system it is meant to build and protect.

Nigerians are awaiting the report of the Prof Yemi Osinbajo-led committee which investigated the allegations leveled against Lawal, leading to his suspension.

What the government does or fails to do with the Lawalâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s case will define the difference between the APC and the ousted PDP. Except the Osinbajo committee finds something redeeming of Lawal and his office, then the Adamawa-born fellow might be heading for prosecution and possible jail, if the governmentâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s avowed fight against corruption will neither defer to friends nor foes. Nigerians are waiting and watching.

Let Buhari Go Treat Himself

I

am not one of those who will so quickly call for President Buhariâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s resignation on account of his health because I know that everybody and anybody is susceptible to falling ill.

Those who have been clamouring for Mr President to step down do so either out of mischief or because of our Yarâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;Adua experience.

Yes, the president is sick, but I believe he can and will get well again to con-

Buhari

tinue his service to the country.

I do not believe the presidency has however been transparent enough about the health of the president. As a public votary, the issues of the health of a president is or should not be such a classified information. Nigerians, for instance, do not know what the president is suffering from? What is he sick of?

Apart from the first medical trip he had when he complained of ear pain, we do not know the present ailment which has remained pretty serious.

In managing the information about the presidentâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s health, Nigerians do not have to be lied to. There is nothing wrong with telling Nigerians the status of the presidentâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s health.

Until he admitted, upon his return from the last trip that he had never been as sick all his life, most of the governmentâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s publicists had regaled us with the claim of â&#x20AC;&#x153;our president is hale and heartyâ&#x20AC;?.

The absence of the right and true information in the public domain, fuels rumours and conjectures.

I am sure Mr President hastily returned from the last trip even when he had not fully recovered, apparently to satisfy the pressure for him to return and take over the mantle of leadership.

He had rightly transmitted power to his deputy who filled in the gap most brilliantly for the 49 days that Mr

President was away. It is said that the ubiquitous â&#x20AC;&#x153;cabalâ&#x20AC;? wanted Buhari return at all cost so he can reclaim his power.

This must have been for the selfish interest of the members of the cabal.

Were it not so, do they not know that the health and well being of the president is of paramount importance than his hold on power?

Since March 10 when the president returned from medical trip to the UK, he had hinted that he would soon be back for a medical follow-up. This is almost two months after. Why has he not returned? Perhaps it wouldnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t have been necessary if Mr President had shown signs of full and perfect recovery.

But he has not. In fact, he has had only measured public appearances since then.

For three full weeks now, he has failed to preside over the weekly Federal Executive Council (FEC) meeting. Two weeks ago, we were told, heâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;d henceforth work from him as he had been told to â&#x20AC;&#x153;slow downâ&#x20AC;?.

Yes, he may slow down, but the affairs of this nation cannot either slow down or be held down on account of Mr Presidentâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s health. He should hand over properly to his deputy again and go and take care of his health without demur.

If, as it appears, he cannot get appropriate medical treatment in Nigeria, he should go to wherever he can find it,

even Cuba, and get well.

He should ignore the scheming of his acolytes who want him stay put here so they can exercise the privileges of power.

The Vice President, Yemi Osinbajo, had shown competence and capacity when he held the forte last February and March.

He not only demonstrated knowledge of what to do, he also showed loyalty to his boss. In fact, the Nigerian economy received a breather while he called the shots. Being an active VP is not the same as being an acting president. The power matrix in both cases are different. He can be trusted again to do even greater works. Buhari and his handlers must put national interest above narrow selfish interest and let Mr President go and treat himself.

I watched a video clip yesterday on WhatsApp where former Presidents Olusegun Obasanjo, Abdulsami Abubakar were lifting Buhari (dressed in Super Eagles kit and clutching a football), in a stretcher, out of the field of play, with Buhari assuring them that â&#x20AC;&#x153; I assure you guys that I can finish this Gameâ&#x20AC;?. Yes, I believe, with him that he will complete this tenure and possibly another, if God so wishes. But he has to do what he ought and timeously too. He should go treat himself. His office will be waiting but the tasks of governance cannot wait a second.

23

THISDAY, THE SATURDAY NEWSPAPER Ëž AY 6, 2017

THE ALTERNATIVE with Reno Omokri Lai Mohammedâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Jollof Lies

T

hat Lai Mohammed has reduced himself from minister for information to minister for explaining why President Muhammadu Buhari does not attend to official duties is now obvious!

Instead of busying himself generating ideas for the betterment of Nigeria, he is more concerned with generating excuses for Buhariâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s failure!

Why has Lai done this to himself? Why has he turned himself into the Southern end of a bull?

And when CNNâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Richard Quest gave him an opportunity to redeem himself by asking him the leading question, â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;which country makes the best jollof riceâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;, Lai Mohammed proved how irredeemable he is by saying, and I quote, â&#x20AC;&#x153;I want to say Senegal.â&#x20AC;? Really! Senegal.

Is Lai Mohammed now the minister of information for Senegal?

And to make matters worse, Lai tried to spin the storm that came after his disappointing response by claiming that he misunderstood Mr. Questâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s question.

If Lai can misunderstand such a simple question, then it falls into question his capability for the job he holds.

Perhaps when you have a jollofless Lai as information minister and French graduate as agriculture minister, even jollof rice runs away to Senegal! Is this sycophancy taken too far? This is the same Lai Mohammed that said Fulani herdsmen come from Mauritius, a country that is in the Indian Ocean and shares no land border with Africa. The same Lai Mohammed that told us in January that President Muhammadu Buhari is perfectly healthy. I hear that even satan is praying for Lai to go to heaven because he fears he will lose his seat if he comes to hell!

And Lai does not seem to realise the extent of the damage he has done to Nigeriaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s image. If I were the Senegalese government, I will feature Laiâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s answer to Richard Questâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s question as a publicity advertisement for the Senegalese tourism industry on CNN and other global media.

It almost seems that since Muhammadu Buhari became our President, it is not only foreign investors that are divesting from Nigeria. Even jollof rice has divested to Senegal. In fact, as Jollof rice has divested, we must not forget that the minister of agriculture had announced plans to import grass from Brazil so Herdsmen will be comfortable. You see, even grass had divested from Nigeria to Brazil!

But on second thoughts, perhaps we owe Lai an apology. He is right after all. Jollof RICE originates from Senegal. It is jollof LIES that originate from Nigeria through Lai Mohammed.

In fact, I want to play a game called Name Your Favourite Jollof LIE that Lai has cooked. I will start. My favourite is the lie that one masquerade can create 1000 jobs. What is yours? Send me an email of yours to reno@renoomokri.org or tweet it at me using the hashtag #NameYourFavouriteJollofLIE! But on a more serious note, Laiâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s most recent misadventure should prompt the federal government to do some introspection because incidences like this are too commonplace with this administration that one may be forgiven if he thought we

48hoursafterAnthonyJoshuaTKOâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ed WladimirKlitschkotobecomethe undisputedheavyweightchampionof theworldonApril29,2017,theNigerian governmenthadnotcongratulatedhim.It wasnotuntilSenatorBenMurray-Bruce tweetedaboutitthathecongratulatedthe championpugilist.IhopeLaidoesnotthink AnthonyisfromSENEGAL!!Youneverknow withthisBuhariadministration!Andthis derelictionofdutyfromLaiMohammedis moretellingwhenyouconsiderthatNigerians donotreallyknowwhatishappeningwith theirgovernment.Whethertrueorfalse, wehearaboutacabalgoverning.Executive CounciloftheFederationmeetingseither donotholdorwheretheyhold,littleto nothingisdonebecausethePresidentis notthere. ItiseitherLaitellsusthatthe Presidentisrestingondoctorsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;adviceor thatheisworkingfromhome.Beingthatthe Presidentâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;sofficeis5minutesfromhishome (Ihavewalkeditmyself)onebeginstowonder whatLaiMeshewhenhesaysthatPresident MuhammaduBuhariworkedfromhome.

Buhari

were being governed by people who do not know much about Nigeria.

For instance we have a President who told the Telegraph of U.K. that Nigerians are â&#x20AC;&#x153;criminalsâ&#x20AC;?, a lying information minister who thinks Nigerian jollof rice originates from Senegal, a French graduate agriculture minister who wants to import grass for Fulani Herdsmen while Nigerians have no food, a minister of finance that wants to tax Nigerians who own homes in London, a minister of internal affairs who thinks the job of uniformed military officers is to shine his shoe in public, a pot-bellied minister of transport whose only major achievement is inaugurating what the previous administration built, and a Science and Technology minister whose publicly stated ambition is to produce pencils in two yearsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; time - in fact, maybe the whole government should just go to Senegal along with our jollof rice!

And God keeps giving Lai Mohammed opportunities to redeem himself and his government and he keeps failing to live up to his title as the chief-image maker for the government.

48 hours after Anthony Joshua TKOâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ed Wladimir Klitschko to become the undisputed heavy weight champion of the world on April 29, 2017, the Nigerian government had not congratulated him. It was not until Senator Ben Murray-Bruce tweeted about it that he congratulated the champion pugilist. I hope Lai does not think Anthony is from SENEGAL!! You never know with this Buhari administration!

And this dereliction of duty from Lai Mohammed is more telling when you consider that Nigerians do not really know what is happening with their government.

Whether true or false, we hear about a cabal governing. Executive Council of the Federation meetings either do not hold or where they hold, little to nothing is done because the President is not there.

It is either Lai tells us that the President is resting on doctorsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; advice or that he is working from home. Being that the Presidentâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s office is 5 minutes from his home (I have walked it myself) one begins to wonder what Lai Meshe when he says that President Muhammadu Buhari worked from home.

And Laiâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s comments betray the disconnect in this government. Lai tells us that the President needs to rest on doctorsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; orders, yet the minister of transport, Rotimi Amaechi, only this week said the President was fit enough to govern and re-contest in 2019.

Speaking as a guest on Channels Televisionâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Hard Copy, Mr. Amaechiâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s exact words were: â&#x20AC;&#x153;The president is fit enough to govern and if he makes the decision to run again, if he does, I donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t think there is anything wrong in supporting him.â&#x20AC;?

So who should we believe between Amaechi and Lai? And then the minister of communications, Adebayo Shittu, joined the fray by saying: â&#x20AC;&#x153;We would urge him to seek re-election because it is only once in a while that you get a father figure for a nation to move forward and attain greatness. He is unlike former President Goodluck Jonathan, who never, with due respect, symbolised anything for the country.â&#x20AC;?

Barrister Adebayo Shittu says Muhammadu Buhari is like a father to Nigerians and Goodluck Jonathan was not. How sad that we forget history so soon! Between â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;the dog and baboon will

be soaked in bloodâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; and â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;my ambition is not worth the blood of any Nigerianâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;, who sounds like a father?

Instead of Buhariâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s minister to pray for his health, they are prodding him on to seek re-election in 2019. Learn from Abacha and Yarâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;adua. Do not tempt God! I just thank God that there are men who fear God like Chief Bisi Akande in the APC. While Amaechi, Kachikwu, Shittu and Oyegun are playing God, Akande this week released a statement that he â&#x20AC;&#x153;weptâ&#x20AC;? because of the state of Buhariâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s health.

What did Jesus say in Mark 8:36? â&#x20AC;&#x153;What shall it profit a man, if he shall gain the whole world, and lose his own soul?â&#x20AC;? The enemies of Buhari are those who are encouraging him to cling to power instead of clinging to his health!

If I were President Muhammadu Buhari, I will sack Amaechi and Shittu for pressuring me over 2019 at a time I should focus on my health. Except the aim is to kill me. It is taken that every sane man intends the reasonable consequence of his actions.

What is the reasonable consequence of pressuring a man who is too sick to work full time or attend mosque to start contemplating the rigours of a re-election campaign? The reasonable consequence will befall Buhariâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s enemies, not Buhari. Amaechi, Shittu and Oyegun are Buhariâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s biggest enemies!

In all these, what I find alarming is the silence of both Tunde Bakare and Father Mbaka. Pastor Tunde Bakare and Reverend Father Ejike Mbaka, who knew you guys could be so silent. You used to be so talkative!!! Sometimes it seems as if God made Muhammadu Buhari to be President purposely to expose the hypocrisy of some people.

These guys were so narky under the previous administration but now it seems the cat has got their tongue. What a pity.

But there is a silver lining. Vice President Yemi Osinbajo is a man who has won my heart for his conduct and carriage in office. President Buhari could not have made a better choice!

Just take in the comment he made while addressing â&#x20AC;&#x153;The Platformâ&#x20AC;? at Covenant Christian Centre in Lagos. On May Day 2017, Professor Osinbajo said, â&#x20AC;&#x153;And by the way, we all know that Nigerian jollof rice is the best!â&#x20AC;? And in just one sentence, Vice President Professor Yemi Osinbajo exposed Lai Mohammed for the liar he is.

This is why even though I pray for President Muhammadu Buhari, I am quite satisfied that Nigeria is safe in the hands of Osinbajo. Osinbajo understands what it is to lead a nation. After Lai embarrassed Nigeria over jollof rice, President Buhari kept mute, but Osinbajo has redeemed Nigeriaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s image. God bless Professor Yemi Osinbajo!

Renoâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Nuggets

Noah built the Ark when it was sunny. You canâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t prepare for adversity during adversity. You prepare for it during prosperity.

While you are building your ark, haters will laugh at you. Donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t waste anger on haters. When they annoy you, use the anger as energy to achieve more. It will annoy them more than your anger. And always remember that the world wonâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t understand you if you try to explain yourself with words. Your only explanation they will understand is your success #RenosNuggets Reno Omokri is working on his book, Facts Versus Fiction: The True Story of the Jonathan Years: Chibok, 2015 and Other Conspiracies, is set for release in June.

24

THISDAY, THE SATURDAY NEWSPAPER Ëž ÍžË&#x153; ͺ͸͚;

by OMOLOLA ITAYEMI omolola.itayemi@thisdaylive.com 08054699602

TRAVEL&LEISURE

Six Reasons Why Domestic Tourism Must Thrive Ă&#x201C;Ă&#x17E;Ă&#x2019; Ă&#x17E;Ă&#x2019;Ă? Ă&#x2039;Ă&#x201C;Ă&#x153;Ă&#x2039; Ă?Ă&#x2013;Ă&#x2122;ĂĄĂ&#x2013;ĂŁ Ă&#x2039;Ă&#x161;Ă&#x161;Ă&#x153;Ă?Ă?Ă&#x201C;Ă&#x2039;Ă&#x17E;Ă&#x201C;Ă&#x2DC;Ă&#x2018;Ë&#x153; Ă&#x2014;Ă&#x2122;Ă&#x153;Ă? Ă?Ă&#x2039;Ă?Ă?Ă&#x201C;Ă&#x2DC;Ă&#x2039;Ă&#x17E;Ă&#x201C;Ă&#x2DC;Ă&#x2018; Ă?Ă Ă?Ă&#x2DC;Ă&#x17E;Ă? Ă&#x2039;Ă&#x153;Ă? Ă?Ă&#x2019;Ă&#x2122;ĂĄĂ&#x201C;Ă&#x2DC;Ă&#x2018; Ă&#x;Ă&#x161; Ă&#x2122;Ă&#x2DC; Ă&#x17D;Ă&#x2122;Ă&#x2014;Ă?Ă?Ă&#x17E;Ă&#x201C;Ă? Ă&#x17E;Ă&#x2122;Ă&#x;Ă&#x153;Ă&#x201C;Ă?Ă&#x2014; Ă?Ă&#x2039;Ă&#x2013;Ă?Ă&#x2DC;Ă&#x17D;Ă&#x2039;Ă&#x153; Ă&#x2039;Ă&#x2DC;Ă&#x17D; Ă&#x17E;Ă&#x2019;Ă? Ă&#x201C;Ă&#x2018;Ă?Ă&#x153;Ă&#x201C;Ă&#x2039;Ă&#x2DC; Ă?Ă&#x;Ă&#x201C;Ă?Ă&#x201C;Ă&#x2DC;Ă? Ă&#x201C;Ă? Ă&#x2DC;Ă&#x2122; Ă&#x17D;Ă&#x2122;Ă&#x;Ă&#x152;Ă&#x17E; Ă&#x2039;Ă&#x17E;Ă&#x17E;Ă&#x153;Ă&#x2039;Ă?Ă&#x17E;Ă&#x201C;Ă&#x2DC;Ă&#x2018; Ă&#x201C;Ă&#x2DC;Ă&#x17E;Ă?Ă&#x153;Ă&#x2DC;Ă&#x2039;Ă&#x17E;Ă&#x201C;Ă&#x2122;Ă&#x2DC;Ă&#x2039;Ă&#x2013; Ă&#x153;Ă?Ă Ă&#x201C;Ă?ĂĄĂ?Ë&#x203A; Ă&#x;Ă&#x17E; Ă&#x152;Ă?Ă?Ă&#x2122;Ă&#x153;Ă? ĂĄĂ? Ă?Ă&#x2039;Ă&#x2DC; Ă?Ă&#x;Ă?Ă?Ă?Ă?Ă?Ă?Ă&#x;Ă&#x2013;Ă&#x2013;ĂŁ Ă?Ă?Ă&#x2013;Ă&#x2013; Ă&#x201C;Ă&#x2018;Ă?Ă&#x153;Ă&#x201C;Ă&#x2039;Ă&#x2DC; Ă&#x17E;Ă&#x2122;Ă&#x;Ă&#x153;Ă&#x201C;Ă?Ă&#x2014; Ă&#x152;Ă&#x153;Ă&#x2039;Ă&#x2DC;Ă&#x17D; Ă&#x17E;Ă&#x2122; Ă&#x17E;Ă&#x2019;Ă? Ă&#x2122;Ă&#x;Ă&#x17E;Ă?Ă&#x201C;Ă&#x17D;Ă? ĂĄĂ&#x2122;Ă&#x153;Ă&#x2013;Ă&#x17D;Ë&#x153; ĂĄĂ? Ă&#x2014;Ă&#x;Ă?Ă&#x17E; Ă&#x2039;Ă&#x17D;Ă&#x17D;Ă&#x153;Ă?Ă?Ă? Ă&#x17E;Ă&#x2019;Ă? Ă&#x17D;Ă&#x2122;Ă&#x2014;Ă?Ă?Ă&#x17E;Ă&#x201C;Ă? Ă&#x2014;Ă&#x2039;Ă&#x153;Ă&#x2022;Ă?Ă&#x17E; Ă&#x161;Ă&#x2122;Ă&#x17E;Ă?Ă&#x2DC;Ă&#x17E;Ă&#x201C;Ă&#x2039;Ă&#x2013;Ë&#x153; Ă?Ă?Ă?Ă&#x;Ă&#x153;Ă? Ă&#x17E;Ă&#x2019;Ă? Ă&#x152;Ă&#x;ĂŁĚ&#x2039;Ă&#x201C;Ă&#x2DC; Ă&#x2039;Ă&#x2DC;Ă&#x17D; Ă?Ă&#x2122;Ă&#x2DC;Ă?Ă&#x201C;Ă&#x17D;Ă?Ă&#x2DC;Ă?Ă? Ă&#x2122;Ă? Ă&#x201C;Ă&#x2018;Ă?Ă&#x153;Ă&#x201C;Ă&#x2039;Ă&#x2DC;Ă? Ă&#x201C;Ă&#x2DC; Ă&#x17E;Ă&#x2019;Ă? Ă?Ă?Ă?Ă&#x17E;Ă&#x2122;Ă&#x153; Ă&#x2039;Ă? ĂĄĂ?Ă&#x2013;Ă&#x2013; Ă&#x2039;Ă? Ă&#x2018;Ă?Ă&#x17E; Ă&#x201C;Ă&#x2018;Ă?Ă&#x153;Ă&#x201C;Ă&#x2039;Ă&#x2DC;Ă? Ă&#x17E;Ă&#x2019;Ă?Ă&#x2014;Ă?Ă?Ă&#x2013;Ă Ă?Ă? Ă&#x17E;Ă&#x2122; Ă&#x152;Ă? Ă&#x161;Ă&#x153;Ă&#x2122;Ă&#x;Ă&#x17D; Ă&#x2122;Ă? Ă&#x17E;Ă&#x2019;Ă?Ă&#x201C;Ă&#x153; Ă&#x2019;Ă?Ă&#x153;Ă&#x201C;Ă&#x17E;Ă&#x2039;Ă&#x2018;Ă?Ë&#x203A; Omolola Itayemi ĂĄĂ&#x153;Ă&#x201C;Ă&#x17E;Ă?Ă? Ă&#x2122;Ă&#x2DC; Íž Ă?Ă&#x2039;Ă?Ă&#x2122;Ă&#x2DC;Ă? ĂĄĂ&#x2019;ĂŁ Ă&#x17D;Ă&#x2122;Ă&#x2014;Ă?Ă?Ă&#x17E;Ă&#x201C;Ă? Ă&#x17E;Ă&#x2122;Ă&#x;Ă&#x153;Ă&#x201C;Ă?Ă&#x2014; Ă&#x2014;Ă&#x;Ă?Ă&#x17E; Ă&#x17E;Ă&#x2019;Ă&#x153;Ă&#x201C;Ă Ă?

T

ourism is a major employer of labour and generates revenue for government as seen in other countries. It is a major contributor to their GDP. With Nigeriaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s huge population, it will be foolhardy for us not to harness such. Domestic Tourism will no doubt enhance job creation, poverty alleviation and revenue generation and reposition Nigeria as the preferred tourism destination in Sub-Saharan Africa, offering diverse world class tourism products geared towards contributing to the GDP through a transformation driven policy.

While not discountenancing international tourism, the need to advocate domestic travel is very important because it further unifies Nigerians as citizens of a country and helps us know more about our diverse cultures.

Tourism is one product that can educate us more about our country. We need to inform more; Nigerians need to be told that Nigeria is a destination to be appreciated.

What the government needs to do is ensure better travel infrastructure and quality services when travelling by land, water or air across Nigeria, in order to afford a holiday within Nigeria.

Tourism ensures that investments in tourism infrastructure benefit the poor in the locality where they are sited while empowerment of women, youths and the underprivileged through tourism entrepreneurship would receive high priority. In this instance, organising our clusters will come naturally.

Tourism is the only activity that can put the federal and state government in charge of tourist spots on their feet.

Thanks to top events, some states have taken their tourism spots and sites a notch higher by rehabilitating or building them to international standards. There are uncountable resort centres with state of the art facilities in Nigeria which can match others in the world.

Ikogosi Warm Springs Resorts, Inagbe Resorts and Lâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;Meridien Ibom Golf Resort are some

Inagbe grand resorts in Lagos

of them. Also, the tourism event calendar is becoming more robust as each year goes by attracting more regional and international participation.

Osun Osogbo festival, Calabar Festival, Mare Festival, Lagos Food Festival, Gidi Fest, Eyo festival, Black Heritage Festival are events that have proved that they could attract foreign tourists. Domestic travel is not completely unattractive as seen with events like Osun Osogbo and Calabar festivals where locals travel to where these events take place.

Nigeria has a better advantage over so many other countries to benefit from tourism. We have the advantage of population. Tourism contributes 10% to the global GDP but as at now, Nigerian is not fully benefiting from tourism like other countries.

Security issue is not peculiar to us. Israel has been dealing with terrorism since 1946 and there one of the top destination when it comes to religious tourism.

We have 36 states and the FCT, but some few states are facing this problem, do we

now stop it because of these states? Go to Egypt and see how tourism is still striving in spite of their crises.

Tourism is still going on there just as in Kenya, Gambia and Senegal.

However, from modern airports to well managed vacation spots and tourist sites to affordable hotel rates and excellent customer service, we need to get it right. When it comes to spending oneâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s hard-earned money, no one wants excuses or near-misses when one can get a better deal.

Imoke: Nigerian Tourism Needs Nigerians to Thrive The Lagos Leather

T

he former governor of Cross River State, Liyel Imoke says Nigerians must be involved for tourism to thrive in the country.

He was speaking at the Nigerian Association of Tour Operators, (NATOP), AGM Conference 2017 held recently at Renaissance Hotel, Ikeja, Lagos. In 45 minutes, and using Destination Cross River as case study, â&#x20AC;&#x153;the tourism governorâ&#x20AC;? dissected the problems facing Nigeriaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s tourism, which keeps it from reaching its full potentials.

And being a practical man, Imoke identified how they can be solved. He said: â&#x20AC;&#x153;Tourism in Nigeria is absolutely unregulated...if we must be honest, we are not a tourism country. â&#x20AC;&#x153;There must be inter-agency collaboration for the industry to gain the much needed traction; essentially, policies and laws must be backed by the required implementation.â&#x20AC;?

Citing Cross Riverâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s many tourist products-#Obudu Ranch Resort, #Tinapa FTZ and Obudu #Mountain Race, among others, he argues that they were all brilliant initiatives that were stifled by a not-so-ideal system of federalism.

Also speaking at the ceremony, the Director General of the Nigerian Tourism Development Corporation (NTDC), Folorunsho Coker, has reiterated the fact that Nigeria is the cheapest holiday

Fair Debuts

T

L - R: Ikechi Uko, Sen Liyel Imoke in a handshake with Folorunsho Coker. Behind are Minister of Information, Culture and National Orientation, Alh Lai Mohammed, President NATOP, Nkereuwem Onung and Gabe Onah at NATOP AGM 2017

available to its citizens. He also stressed the need for the citizen to explore domestic tourism.

Coker said: â&#x20AC;&#x153;We need to package tourism in a simple manner that the average Nigerian can understand. If we donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t package it, individuals cannot take advantage of it. We understand the product better; we are the most critical audience and

will demand better value for our money. At N400 to $1, we are better of spending our naira here as that will make the holiday cheaper and affordable.

Accommodation, transport, food and drinks will be cheaper to spending dollars outside. That aside, we are also boosting our economy and strengthening our currency by reducing the pressure on it.

he Lagos Leather Fair, the first of its kind, is scheduled to hold from the 2nd to 4th of June, 2017, at the Federal Palace Hotel, Lagos.

The fair, a private initiative, is borne out of the need to draw attention to the untapped possibilities within the leather industry, identify the current challenges and discuss possible innovative solutions to move the industry forward.

Furthermore, in concurrence with the Made in Nigeria initiative, the fair also seeks to promote leather designers, provide training for artisans, and improve the quality of finished products.

The fair will host about 50 emerging and established leather designers as well as the ModainPelle Academy, a training institute in Milan, Star Machines, a supplier of leather equipment and machinery, some tanneries from Kano and some members of the Aba cluster.

THISDAY, THE SATURDAY NEWSPAPER ˾ MAY 6, 2017

25

EXPRESSION

MEDIAGAFFES

Face, Not Tribal, Marks

EBERE WABARA

T

HISDAY Front Page of April 29 welcomes us today: “Beaming with smiles and….” Yank off ‘with smiles’ which is encompassed in ‘beaming’. “…leaving devastations in (on) their trail” “PDP, APC trade blames over insecurity in Akwa Ibom” (DAILY SUN Headline, April 21) ‘Blame’ is uncountable.

“The Honourable Minister, Federal Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development, Chief Audu Ogbeh (OFR) and The (sic) Minister of State, Senator Heineken Lokpobiri (another comma) wish to invite all state Commissioners of (for) Agriculture….”

(Full-page public announcement by the Federal Ministry of Agriculture and rural Development, signed by Dr. Bukar Hassan, Permanent Secretary) “Moses moves Chelsea to Promise (Promised) Land” (Sporting Sun Front Page Bold Headline, May 1) “Students leaving with their luggages after the bomb attack.” Get it right: ‘Luggage’ is non-count.

“Can the CBN defend the naira” Economic renaissance: this headline needs a question mark.

“15 passengers drown as vehicle plunges into river” The victims could not have drowned inside the bush! Therefore, delete ‘into river’ “Aside the need to breath (breathe) fresh life into the brands, Guinness had competitions in (on) all fronts to contend with.”

“Rivers: Developing economic potentials

BY

(potential or potentialities” “Your eminence, as you mark your eight (eighth) anniversary on the throne….”

“Lagosians raise alarm (the alarm)” “Imoke flags off 10th Carnival Calabar Dry Run” Instead of ‘flag off’, use ‘inaugurates’ “We also seize (take/use) this opportunity to congratulate you and your entire (all your) family for (on/upon) your humanitarian contributions….” Please note that ‘seize an opportunity’ is a piece of Americanism.

“Vandalisation, major threat to regular power supply” Vandalism of the English language must stop!

“The recent Presidential approval for Grass Root (sic) Sports Development in….”

(Full-page advertisement by National Lottery Trust Fund) This way: grassroots sp orts…. “…and the police has (have) no right to abridge them.”

“As law abiding citizens the campaigners did the right thing….” A rewrite: As lawabiding citizens, the campaigners did….

(Take note of the hyphen and comma).

“Unfortunately (a comma) the heart rendering (heart-rending) plight of the over 200 students of the Government Secondary School, Chibok….” “,,,he speaks on the opportunities inherent in mobile apps and how start-ups can harness same (the same).”

“American mid term (mid-term) elections: Democrats eat (bite the) dust” “Rivers PDP at a crossroad” Politics: at a/the crossroads “He achieved this fit (feat) by always striving for excellence.” “Leke, Akeem root for Eagles call up” Sports: Eagles’ call-up

“Cycling Federation thumbs-up (thumbs up)….”

“41 insurgents killed, as troops (troops’) deployment continues” “Seventy-six years in the life of a man is a major milestone especially for one who has left indelible records in (on) the political landscape of our great country.” (Full-page advertorial by Orlu Zonal Political Leaders Forum signed by HE (sic) Chief Achike Udenwa (Leader) and Chief Chyna Iwuanyanwu, Secretary) Yank off ‘major’. And this: Leaders’ Forum “Estranged first wife escapes death by the whiskers” Top stories: by a whisker “Uyo bubbles as Jonathan commissions (inaugurates) Akwa Ibom Stadium” “Eagles battle ready (battle-ready) for Ghana” “Empowering women to achieve their potentials” Already treated!

The following three blunders are from a full-page advertisement by the Niger Delta University, Wilberforce Island, Bayelsa State: “The Niger Delta University invites applications from suitable (suitably) qualified candidates for the following vacant posts….”

“A Good University Degree (unnecessary capitalization) preferable (preferably) masters in a relevant….” This aptly explains why our educational standard is not just falling, but has collapsed almost irretrievably!

FEEDBACK “APC gives quit notice (the notice to quit) to PDP” (AJAYI LAWRENCE, 08054674477) WHO or whom? “Who is fooling who” is correct while who is fooling whom is incorrect. Fowler’s usage bible (A Dictionary of Modern English Usage) has taken a stand.

ewabara@yahoo.com, 08055001948

‘Whom’ has been declared an obsolescent word (going gradually out of usage) except in dative case: by whom/for whom/to whom/through whom/with whom etc.

Note well: who is who in Nigeria. Who is who in Africa, etc. Keep it up.

TRIBAL marks or face marks? Last week, Chief Olusegun Obasanjo gleefully and humorously told the media that he had three identity cards: his international passport, national identity card and his ‘owu’ “tribal” (face) marks. He was obviously misled by NIMC’s National Identification Enrolment form which asks for your physical features that include height, gender, hair colour, tribal marks (instead of face marks). Simply put, these NIMC officials are language barbarians! (The last intervention by Baba BAYO OGUNTUNASE, a renowned language activist, shortly before his demise last weekend…may his soul rest in peace)!

“THE party will continue to inspire confidence in all party faithfuls (faithful)” (Full-page advertorial by Cross River State PDP Stakeholders) The faithful (already plural) are believers in a particular religion, or loyal supporters of a political party.

(STANLEY NDUAGU, 08062925996) “MANY people who are soliciting for this consensus….” ‘For’ is needless.

(SUNDAY ADESINA ROYALSON, Abuja, 08065615799), “Then, the shoes were parked with cotton wool or paper.…” There is a difference between ‘pack’ and ‘park’.

“For a man who took the gospel of exclusive breast-feeding to grassroot (grassroots) level.…”

INSIGHT

Innovative Leadership in Lagos Raising Hope Crusoe Osagie highlights some of the intelligent steps taken by the Lagos State Government in its urban renewal projects that inspire hope that purposeful leadership may still exist in the country

“N

igeria is a nation at crossroads.” That is how CNN anchor, Richard Quest, put it in a recent chat with a few journalists in Lagos.

For the widely travelled and highly experienced journalist, Africa’s largest democracy must take crucial decisions across varied segments of the society urgently or miss the opportunity to ride the waves of greatness which only seldom gathers in the lives of nations.

“Nigeria is at crossroads and the people’s views are at crossroads,” he said.

“And two words have been repeated by nearly every CEO or leader of thought I have met since I have been here and they are: leadership and corruption,” he added.

Quest could not have been more apt. Unfortunately, this same bifurcated problem, over generations, has stood in the way.

If leadership and corruption are the problems crippling the country and its is going to take leadership the solve the problem, then your guess is as good as mine that Nigeria may have to run around these endless circles for many years to come. Conversely however, the unfolding governance pattern in Lagos today seems to spark flickers of hope and stir cautious optimism.

Bus terminals Lagos in the past two years or so, seems to show any keen observer that it takes more than just availability of material resources to drive development that actually impact the lives of people, especially the teeming majority.

Many may not have given a serious thought to the fact that the biggest problem the people living in Lagos had to deal with was commuting.

The average Lagosian spent at least four hours of every day just moving between their homes and places of work.

Atrip from Ikeja to Victoria Island during

health hazards, drudgery and general unproductivity.

By the effective deployment of a sound masstransit system, which did not take so long and did not cost much, Lagos significantly dealt with the problem of unbearably lengthy travel time.

The problem of congested traffic in Lagos are certainly not completely over, but some smart leaders, evidently are doing something about it.

Retro-reflective stickers

Ambode work hours before Governor Akinwunmi Ambode came to power in the state used to take around two hours. Today, unless there is an unusual incident on the road, if you set from Ikeja by 7am you will be in Victoria Island in one hour.

As great as this achievement which has saved millions of man hours hitherto wasted in Lagos traffic might appear, greater still is the measure deployed to attain this achievement.

How come nobody thought about building those terminals at the various bus stops on the stretch between motorways and the Thirdmaniland bridge? Although I do not have the figures of the amounts spent set up those terminals, I can confirm that they have been silver bullets in terms of their effectiveness.

This is what good leaders do. They act first in the best interest of the majority.

About 80 per cent of the population in Lagos move daily from the Mainland to the Island (what Americans refer to as down-town) and they go through hell doing this daily, leading to a lot of problems including traffic robberies,

Moving around Lagos, any patriotic Nigerian would be frustrated to see the perpetual damage of public property especially by motorists.

After the Light-up Lagos project which Ambode also masterfully implemented came on stream, hundreds of street-light poles erected have been knocked down by the regular commuter buses (Danfo), articulated trucks bearing petroleum products or containers and some private vehicles. Most of these damage happen late at night Kerbs and concrete pavement separating two sides of the roads within the state have not been spared from these wreckage.

Sadly also, several persons have also been maimed and killed in these accidents.

While there may be a serious need to set up a taskforce that will be charged with the responsibility to apprehend people who tear down government property in order to deal with the purely negligent, and ensure that they pay fines that would deter them in the future and be useful in the repair of the damage they caused, Ambode has thoughtfully began the handling of the problem in a manner quite uncommon among leaders in Nigeria.

His thinking apparently is, before you hold people to account, you must at least try to ensure you take steps that could help prevent the destruction from happening in the first place.

This is the point where the effort to deploy Retro-reflective stickers, which are passive yet sublime, on most of the streetlight poles and other structures on the roads stands out.

The next time you drive through the Third mainland bridge during the day or at night, just

take a close look at the poles that stand on the middle of the road and you will notice small stickers that appear red and white in colour.

When the light from your car is beamed against these stickers at night, it produces a unique luminous reflection, which stands out and can hardly be missed.

These stickers are already in place in several other major roads in the country including: Oba Akinjobi Street, Old Secretariat, Sasegbon Street,Works Road,Oduduwa Way, Oduduwa Crescent,Remi Fani-Kayode, Joel Ogunaike and Adekunle Fajuyi Street, all in the GRA, Ikeja.

Others are Herbert Macaulay Way 1and 2, Hussey Street, Alakija Street,University Road and Saint Finbarrs College Road all in the Yaba area of Lagos.

There is also Kudirat Abiola Way, Opebi-link Road, Opebi Street, Mobolaji Bank-Anthony Road, Simbiat Abiola Road, Kodesho Road, Sobo Arobiodu Road, Mobolaji Johnson Way, Governor’s Road, House of Assembly Road, Nurudeen Olowopopo, Allen Avenue, Aromire Road, Toyin Street, podo Road, Olowo Street, Oba Akran Avenue, Obafemi Awolowo Road, Lateef Jakande Road and Surulere Industrial Road among several others. With this innovative idea helping drivers see better at night to identify points where there are barriers, anyone who still goes ahead to knock down and destroy government facilities on the road would be fully liable.

The Ojodu Berger Marvel Living around Ojodu Berger, it would be most irresponsible to discuss Ambode’s hopebreeding leadership effort without mentioning the commendable infrastructure complex into which a one-time shack called Ojodu Berger has been transformed.

For those who have not been to Lagos in the past year or so, watch carefully to avoid being ferried beyond your destination if you intend to end your trip at Ojodu Berger. It now looks like a completely different place from what it used to be just over 12 months ago.

26

THISDAY, THE SATURDAY NEWSPAPER Ëž ÍžË&#x153; ͺ͸͚;

ESSENTIAL SKILLS with STEPHEN DIESERUVWE (Director General, Delta State TraďŹ&#x192;c Management Authority (DESTMA)

Driving Mirrors and Blind Spots Driving Mirrors and Blind Spots hendriving,youneedyourmirrors to observe what is happening all around your vehicle. Most modernvehicleshavethreemirrors,an interiororrearviewmirrorandtwo exteriorordoormirrors;oneonthe nearside(right-hand)door,whichisthemirrornearestto thekerb,andoneontheoffside(left-hand)door.

When adjusting your mirrors, you need to sit in your normal driving position, to ensure that they are set up forthebestpossibleviewbehindandtothesides.Adjust yourmirrorssothatyourequiretheminimumofhead movementtogetagoodviewoftrafficbehind. Agood adjustmentfortheexteriororside/doormirrorsistoset them so that when you lean forward slightly, you can seethesideofyourvehicle.

Theinteriororrearviewmirrorusuallyhasananti-dazzle position.Whendrivingatnight,youcanusetheanti-dazzle topreventbeingdazzledordistractedbythefullbeam lightsoftrafficbehindyou.Whentheanti-dazzleisset, althoughyouwillbeabletoseethelight,thedazzlewill begreatlyreduced.

Function of Mirrors Yourdrivingmirrors,firstly,giveyouaviewoftheroad behindyouandtothesides.Secondly,theyenableyou tokeepuptodatewithwhatishappeningbehindand tothesidesofyourvehicle.Thirdly,yourdrivingmirrors help you to make safe and sensible driving decisions, basedonthepositionandspeedofothermovingvehicles.

Theinformationyougatherfromyourmirrorsisessential for overall safety. If when you check your mirrors you find that there is a problem behind, you may need to changeyourdrivingplans.

ThisformsthebasisoftheMirrorsâ&#x20AC;&#x201C;Signalâ&#x20AC;&#x201C;Manoeuvre (MSM) routine which is absolutely essential for safe driving.TheManoeuvrepartoftheroutineissplitinto: Positionâ&#x20AC;&#x201C;Speedâ&#x20AC;&#x201C;Look(PSL).Seethefullexplanation oftheMSM/PSLroutinebelow: TheMSM/PSL-routineisfundamentaltosafedriving.

Itshouldbeusedeverytimeyouintendtochangeyour speedorposition.Youmuststarttheroutinesufficiently inadvanceofyourplannedmanoeuvretoallowyourself plentyoftimetoactonwhatyouseeinyourmirrors.

MSM stands for Mirror-Signal-Manoeuvre. The Manoeuvre part is then extended to mean PositionSpeed-Look(PSL). r .JSSPST DIFDL ZPVS NJSSPST UP BTTFTT UIF TQFFE BOE positionoftrafficbehindyou. r 4JHOBM JG OFDFTTBSZ ZPV TJHOBM UP XBSO PUIFS SPBE userswhatyouintenddoing,givethecorrectsignal. r .BOPFVWSF B NBOPFVWSF JT BOZ DIBOHF JO TQFFE ordirection.

TheManoeuvreelementisbrokendowninto: r 1PTJUJPO UBLF VQ UIF DPSSFDU QPTJUJPO GPS UIF NBOPFVWSF youareabouttoundertake. r 4QFFE TFMFDU UIF TVJUBCMF HFBS BOE TQFFE GPS UIF manoeuvreyouareabouttoundertake. r -PPL MPPL UP TFF JG JU JT TBGF UP DPOUJOVF TheLookelementisfurtherbrokendowninto: r -PPL XIBU DBO ZPV TFF r "TTFTT XIBU BSF ZPVS PQUJPOT r %FDJEF EFQFOEJOH PO XIBU ZPV DBO TFF r "DU FJUIFS DPOUJOVF XJUI UIF NBOPFVWSF PS XBJU TwoTypes of Mirror Therearetwotypesofmirrorfittedtomotorcarsâ&#x20AC;&#x201C;flat andconvex.Inmostcars(butnotall)theinteriormirror is flat and the exterior or door mirrors are convex. Flat mirrors do not distort the pictures of the road behind, which makes it easier to judge the speed and distance of traffic behind you. Adjust your interior or rear view mirrorsothatyougetthebestpossibleviewthroughthe rearwindow,especiallytotheoffside,withoutmoving yourhead.Whenyouseeavehicleintheslightlycurved, convexmirroritmayseemfurtherawaythanitactually is.Although convex mirrors give a wider field of view thanflatmirrors,theimageisslightlydistorted,andwill make the image you see to appear to be farther away.

This is why you should always use both your interior anddoormirrorstogetatruepictureoftheroadbehind.

To be continued Stephen K. Dieseruvwe

W

R-L: Corporate Sales Manager, Mr. Suresh Mordani; Marketing Manager, Olawale Jimoh; and Vice President, Kia Motors Nigeria, Mr. Olu Tikolo, at the unveiling of the all-new Kia Sportage in Lagos... recently

Kia Motors Nigeria Unveils 2018 Kia Sportage Stories by Bennett Oghifo

K

ia Motors Nigeria unveiled the allnew Kia Sportage at a launching and media parley with motoring journalists, held at its showroom, in Victoria Island, Lagos, during the week.

The unveiling of the all-new 2018 Kia Sportage marks one of the most anticipated moments for Kia and its teeming customers in 2017, officials of the company said.

The fourth-generation new Sportage compact SUV is a show-stopper, considering its attractive design, a range of advanced technology features and greater quality.

The all-new Sportage builds on the success of its predecessor model, having been revamped with an innovative and sophisticated package and premium technology features.

Kiaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s new interior is significantly upgraded

with high quality materials and modern design to improve comfort and convenience of pasTFOHFST BOE ESJWFST &OHJOFT BOE USBOTNJTTJPOT have also been updated, ensuring enhanced efficiency and performance.

"DDPSEJOH UP UIF (SPVQ .BOBHJOH %JSFDUPS Kia Motors Nigeria, Jacky Hathiramani â&#x20AC;&#x153;the development of the next-generation Sportage began with an in-depth analysis of market trends to best suit the needs of consumers.

The thoughtful design, innovative packaging, premium materials, powerful engine and state-of-the art technology all translate into a stunning modern masterpiece of SUVs.â&#x20AC;?

Hathiramani stated that, â&#x20AC;&#x153;we are confident that the all-new Kia Sportage will take the entire auto industry by storm, not least because of its brave and handsome design but also its reengineered technology for optimum performance.â&#x20AC;?

He said Sportage boasts of a high, comfortable ride, acres of space for stuff, kids, pets, and

off-road ability.

The new model is a bit longer than the old one â&#x20AC;&#x201C; 1.6 inches, with a wheelbase 1.2 inches longer - so there is more room in the back while UIF ĂĄPPS JT B CJU MPXFS NBLJOH GPS FBTJFS FOUSZ Sportage is the new king of the urban jungle with more than enough power to safely and smoothly navigate city roads along with a perfect combination of contemporary style and sporty appeal.

0MV 5JLPMP 7JDF 1SFTJEFOU ,JB .PUPST /JHFSJB pointed out that the aesthetic improvements in design and improved functionality of the all-new Sportage is expected to once again accelerate Kiaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s market progress and open a brand new chapter in the companyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s history of pioneering the compact urban SUV segment.

The anticipation and excitement for the fourth generation Sportage is expectedly high and we cannot wait for the world to enjoy the dynamic contemporary sophistication of our all-new compact SUV, he said.

Ferrari is Developing Most Hardcore V8 Model

F

errari is reportedly developing a hardcore (50 TFU UP UBLF PO UIF VQDPNJOH 1PSTDIF (5 "VUPDBS SFQPSUT UIF 'FSSBSJ (50 will launch next year and serve as a USBDL GPDVTFE WFSTJPO PG UIF (5# Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s basically a replacement for the Ferrari 458 Speciale and will retain the 3.9-liter twin-turbo 7 FOHJOF GPVOE JO UIF (5# #VU UIF FOHJOF T PVUQVU DFSUBJOMZ XPO U TUBZ UIF same. Performance will be boosted to around 700 horsepower and plenty of interior components will be removed, such as sound deadening in the FOHJOF CBZ UP IFMQ SFEVDF XFJHIU 0UIFS MJHIUXFJHIU upgrades include thinner glass for the windshield and side windows, lighter ceramic brakes and forged wheels.

That means curb weight should be under 3,086 pounds (1,400 kilograms), allowing it to go zero-to-62 mph (0-100 km/h) in a little more than 2.7 seconds.

Look for more aggressive bodywork to improve aerodynamics, while new software for the Side 4MJQ "OHMF $POUSPM XJMM NBLF UIF (50 FWFO more ready for the track.

Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s now believed that recent spy photos of a 488 (5# UFTUJOH XJUI DBNPVĂĄBHF JT BDUVBMMZ B QSPUPUZQF GPS UIF (50 SBUIFS UIBO B NVMF GPS B OFX 'FSSBSJ %JOP 'PS OPX XF MM KVTU IBWF UP XBJU QBUJFOUMZ GPS 'FSSBSJ UP DPOĂ SN UIF (50 T EFWFMPQNFOU

(Source: Autocar)

2017 Nissan PathďŹ nder

%JSFDUPS (FOFSBM %FMUB 4UBUF 5SBGGJD .BOBHFNFOU "VUIPSJUZ %&45."

%SJWFS 5SBJOFS BOE 3PBE 4BGFUZ $POTVMUBOU &NBJM TEJFTFSVWXF!HNBJM DPN **Tel:+2348167814928

THISDAY, THE SATURDAY NEWSPAPER Ëž ÍžË&#x153; ͺ͸͚;

27

Weststar Partners World PR Media for Mercedes-Benz Beauty

A

Mercedes AMG GT concept

Mercedes AMG GT Concept Ready for Production Stories by Bennett Oghifo

M

ercedes-AMG has confirmed the GT Concept is heading to production.

The Mercedes-AMG GT Concept made its debut in March at the 2017 Geneva Motor Show, previewing a four-door model injected with the AMG GTâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s DNA. Speaking to Automotive News, Mercedes-

AMG chairman Tobias Moers spoke about the GT Concept, confirming a production version will arrive in 2018 and a plug-in hybrid model will be â&#x20AC;&#x153;not far beyond.â&#x20AC;?

So at first, the four-door GT model will be available with a conventional powertrain before AMG adds the German automakerâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s EQ Power+ electrified technology to the model.

And donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t expect the production GT Concept to be the only electrified model in MercedesAMGâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s future lineup.

Moers also said plug-ins will eventually

find their way across AMGâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s portfolio and pure electric vehicles are also in the works. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Yeah, why not? Because we are not able to change the future,â&#x20AC;? he said. â&#x20AC;&#x153;We have to adapt to these new requirements and regulations, and we have to move forward and find new innovative solutions.â&#x20AC;?

Mercedes-AMG is also working on a hypercar dubbed â&#x20AC;&#x153;Project Oneâ&#x20AC;? and that should arrive by the end of 2018.

s part of the activities centered on supporting locally manufactured merchandises especially in the world of beauty, Weststar is pleased to announce the partnership with â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;World PR Mediaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; for Mercedes-Benz World PR Beauty Business week. Its maiden edition is scheduled to hold from 17th to19th May 2017 at the Mercedes-Benz Center, Gottlieb Daimler road, Ikate (third roundabout), Lekki.

Mercedes-Benz is known for its unique luxury stylingandaesthetics,whichisalsoapplicabletothe ever-evolving,dynamicbeautyindustryasthereisa constantsearchfornewwaystorepresentthisvibrant and expanding lucrative sector.At Mercedes-Benz, one key secret to success as well as maintaining the topspotasoneofthebestautomobilemanufacturers in the world is providing state of the art luxurious vehicles while preserving an outstanding quality of mobility, service and safety.

Lovers of Mercedes-Benz as well as beauty enthusiasts are invited to witness the exhibition of various beauty products and services while taking a tour around the luxurious vehicles in the showroom.

The three-day event is focused on the â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;Shea Butter Innovationâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; and is geared towards enlightening stakeholders with the latest trends in the beauty industry.

Mercedes-Benz as a brand encompasses beauty in all forms, from the inside out, while maintaining premium service, distinctive design philosophy and the implementation of the most advanced technology. In line with this enthusiasm, we are pleased to announce this partnership, said Mr. MirkoPlathMD/CEO,WeststarAssociatesLimited AuthorizedGeneralDistributorforMercedes-Benz, Chrysler, Dodge, Jeep and RAM in the federal republic of Nigeria.

(Source: Automotive News)

2019 Ford Ranger Spied

F

ord has been caught doing some high-altitude testing for its upcoming Ranger midsize pickup.

Expected to debut in 2018 as a 2019 model, the upcoming Ranger will be specially made for North America, rather than just selling the global version of the truck in the US. The truck seen in these photos is a global Ranger serving as a mule for the U.S.-spec version, so you can expect the styling to change significantly when the Ranger debuts.

The small truck is expected to borrow

styling cues from the larger F-150.

Under the hood, a full range of EcoBoost four- and six-cylinder turbocharged engines are expected to be offered, while a small diesel is also rumored to be in the cards for this small truck.

Fordâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s new 10-speed automatic transmission is also likely to find a home in the new Ranger though itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s not clear as to which engine it will be paired.

The Ranger will come back on the scene to challenge the new crop of midsize trucks that is now on the market, including the redesigned Chevy Colorado and Toyota Tacoma.

2019 Ford Ranger

What is the PSI of Your Tyres?

I

nflation irregularities from the survey conducted on the conditions of tyres nationwide was identified as accounting for 78percent of tyre maintenance problems.

Today, I wish to beam my searchlight on inflation irregularities which is directly tied to what is known as PSI(POUNDS PER SQUARE INCH).AccordingtoAssistantCorpsMarshalKayode Olagunju,â&#x20AC;&#x2122;â&#x20AC;&#x2122;maintainingcorrecttyreinflationpressure helps optimize tyre performance and fuel economy.

Correct tyre inflation pressure allows drivers to experience tyre comfort, durability and performance designed to match the needs of the vehiclesâ&#x20AC;Śâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;â&#x20AC;&#x2122;His survey findings shows that only 30percent of total tyres surveyed had correct PSI while the remaining 70percent had wrong PSI.Afurther breakdown also shows that 34percent of the private vehicles tyres checked had correct PSI , 24percent of commercial vehicles tyres also had correct psi, while 41percent of government vehicles tyres recorded correct psi.

Theimplicationisthatgovernmentsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;vehiclesdrivers are mindful of their tyres gauge than private and commercial vehicles drivers and this is made worse by the dangerous role played by vulcanizers and car owners who should know better.

Let me however focus on a piece I did last year captioned, VULCANIZERS BLUNDERS which captures vividly what obtains across board except for a handful of vulcanizers who through continuous training and retraining have upped their game throughimprovedknowledgeintheirtrade.Majority

SAFE DRIVING with

JONAS AGWU

amnipr, mcipr,mprsa,arpa (Corps Commander) Corps Public Education OďŹ&#x192;cer Federal Road Safety Corps. + 2348033026491

however,stilloperatewiththeirStoneAgeknowledge which is based on guess work at the detriment of the safety of the vehicle owner and occupants. The value ofcorrecttyrepressureandthelawinmostdeveloped countries mandates that all vehicles manufactured from 2008 must be equipped with automatic tyre pressure monitoring system (atpms). This device monitors tyre pressure situation every second and alerts the driver through a monitor on the dashboard about any tyre that has incorrect pressure in it so that the driver will take action before it is too late.

Let me inform you that there are shocking blunders by vulcanizers based on an experience I had with a vulcanizer paints a grim picture of the danger all motoristcouldbefacingondailybasis.Myvehiclehas tyrepressurespecificationof35psibythemanufacturer.

One day, I drove into a vulcanizers shop to pump up one of my tyres. After pumping, the vulcanizer got 35psi reading on his pencil tyre gauge. I checked with

my dial tyre gauge to confirm his reading and got a whooping 60 psi. I asked him to check again with his own gauge. Again he got 35 psi while mine still read 60 psi. Why the huge differences in reading?

Who was right?

The first blunder is that most vulcanizers use the worst tyre gauge-the pencil gauge-that malfunctions easily when subjected to heavy usage. How? This gauge has a calibrated piston that is pushed by air that comes out from the tyre when connected to the valve stem. The extent to which the piston is pushed depends on the pressure in the tyre. The higher the pressure, the farther the piston will be pushed and the higher the reading. On fortunately, with heavy usage (as in everyday application by the vulcanizers), the hole through which air passes to activate the piston can be constricted by dust coming out from unprotected valve stem of the tyre and also by the rust due to moisture from the damp air coming out from the tyre.

With the air passage so narrowed, the amount of air passing through it no more corresponds to the air pressure in the tyre and so a faulty reading results.

Worse still, when this happens, there is no way the userwillknow.Itwillstillbegivingreadingbuthighly incorrect readings. That was the case with vulcanizer i had the encounter with.After i explained to him why his gauge was the one at fault, he did not agree saying he had been using the gauge for long and never had any problems with it. Because of the seriousness of the issue, i had to prove to him conclusively that he

was wrong and endangering the lives of innocent road users. We had to get a brand new pencil gauge that has not been compromised by dust and rust.

When it was used to gauge my tyre, the reading corresponded exactly to what i got with my gauge.

He had no more argument and willingly complied with my demand to submit the dangerous gauge to me because i insisted that he must not use it again.

This type of gauge is also affected by temperature, humidity and altitude. So the readings got at different locations and weather conditions could differ substantially. Not only that, most vulcanizers use this type of gauge, they use it on daily basis and for years. The one used by the vulcanizer mentioned above had signs of abuse and over use all over it. It is the same story north, east, west, and south. But why do the vulcanizers use this type of gauge? Essentially because it is the cheapest gauge in the market.

The second blunder is that Not only that the vulcanizers use the pencil type of gauge, the use one gauge for all tyre pressure. Using one gauge for all pressure measurements is a blunder. Why? Every gauge has a calibration range designed for a certain pressure group and will only be accurate when used for such pressure group. Gauges are accurate when used to measure pressures whose values fall within the middle range of the gauge. For instance, if you have a gauge with range 0-60psi, the middle range is 30psi. This gauge will accurate for pressures whose values fall around 30psi. So pressures that should be measured with this gauge should be about 25-35psi.

Gaugeofrange0-100psishouldbeusedforpressures of 45-60psi or close. Gauge of range 0-160 should be used for pressures of 75-120psi.

28

THISDAY, THE SATURDAY NEWSPAPER Ëž ÍžË&#x153; ͺ͸͚Ϳ

FAMILY HEALTH

Investigations in Female Fertility Treatment

with

BOBO BODE -KAYODE

lifeissuesfromwithin@yahoo.com, .Cel, ͸Î&#x20AC;͸ͽ͝͝Ϳͺ͝ͽ͞

T

he human body is a very complex system, and there is certainly no single and concrete way of finding out what could actually be wrong, when there is a general feeling of ill health.

It is also more worrying, when a particle complaint, could be an indirect pointer to another ailment in an adjoining organ or part of the body.

At a point when a woman desires to get pregnant, all her senses are geared towards achieving this desire. I see a male as a gamete deliverer and a female as a receiver of such vital gamete, providing a conducive incubator, environment for a baby to be formed, nurtured and born. This is an enormous task.

So with these understanding, what should be your focus when you and your partner , go to see your doctor, when you have both tried several times , to get pregnant , and you are not able to do so ?

How usual is it to have problems conceiving?

80% of couples who have regular sexual intercourse (that is, every two to three days) and who do not use contraception will get pregnant within a year. The majority of the remaining 20% achieve a pregnancy within two years of trying.

An estimated one in seven couples has difficulty conceiving. There are several possible reasons why it may not be happening naturally. In men, a fertility problem is usually because of low numbers or poor quality of sperm.

Women become less fertile as they get older.

For women aged 35, about 95% who have regular unprotected sexual intercourse will get pregnant after three years of trying. For women aged 38, only 75 % will do so. The effect of age upon menâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s fertility is less clear. Your lifestyle can affect your chances of conceiving, particularly if you are a heavy smoker and are significantly over- or underweight.

Problems affecting women include damage to the fallopian tubes and endometriosis and erratic or absent ovulation.

Sometimes infertility problems can be due to a combination of factors. In a third of cases, a clear cause is never established.

The first step then is for you to book an appointment to see a doctor you can trust and confide in.

A fertility doctor is your target. This is important because, if you do not trust or confide in your doctor, you have actually created a gap in your treatment process.

At a time when you walk into the clinic, empty yourself of all predetermined thought out line of treatment. Approach the doctor you have chosen with confidence , and a mind of no holding back of vital information.

Why is this necessary ? this is so vital because, if you hold back vital information about yourself, you could actually be leading your doctors thought process down the wrong path.

The clinic would collect vital information from you about yourself and your partner.

The female most of the time is the primary focus for investigation.

Interactions would be r "SF ZPV TUJMM PWVMBUJOH This is important ascertain that you are still producing and releasing eggs at all.

It is therefore important that your ovulation should be assessed by measuring your hormones that are responsible for ovulation .

Blood test during your period to check for hormone imbalances â&#x20AC;&#x201C; measurement of FSH (follicle stimulating hormone, LH (luteinising hormone) and oestradiol. This test can also identify possible early menopause as a cause of subfertility. r "SF ZPV TUJMM IBWJOH ZPVS NPOUIMZ QFSJPET this is important because, you need to have a monthly flow, as an indication that your hormones and uterus are still in sync in the reproductive process.

The duration and frequency is important.

This would then necessitate measuring your hormonal levels. Your fertility Hormonal profile would be measured. These include, FSH,

PROGESTERONE, LUTEINISING HORMONE, PROLACTIN, E1, E2, OESTRADIOL. r )BWF ZPV IBE BOZ 45% T This is important. Current or recent Chlamydial infections can be the reason that you are unable to get pregnant. Chlamydial infections could be latent, with or without symptoms. Therefore , you would be asked to do a chlamydia test blood . r 6MUSB TPVOE TDBOT This would be done to see the state of your tubes and womb and the surroundings , cervix and vagina.

A 3D or 4D colour scan would give a very good clear picture of you anatomy.

3D Aquascans check for physical anomalies in the uterus. Newly-formed embryos tumble along the fallopian tubes and land on the walls of the uterus where they implant. If there are any physical impairments such as scarring, fibroids or polyps where the embryo tries to implant, the doctor will need good information from the scan to assess whether these can be ignored or whether surgery is required to improve the chances of a successful pregnancy.

This can also be carried further, by doing a more directed minor diagnostic procedure. r )ZTUFSPTDPQZ This is a very simple painless procedure, whereby a fine microscope is passed into your body, to have an internal assessment of your full reproductive organs. The procedure would give in-depth visual assessment. It is a modern and very effective method of fertility assessment. r %ZF UFTU This can be done along with the hysteroscopy, to assess the state of your fallopian tubes. A harmless coloured dye is flushed through your fallopian tubes, to check for a spill. A spill would indicate that your tubes are open and healthy. While a reflux would indicate that your tube are blocked. r "OUJ .VFMMFSJBO )PSNPOF \".)^ Blood test results, particularly AMH, can also give valuable information about hormone levels and how they reflect ovarian age and the reproductive cycle. They are also useful if the woman has a known medical condition where her blood test

Blood test results, particularly AMH, can also give valuable information about hormone levels and how they reďŹ&#x201A;ect ovarian age and the reproductive cycle. They are also useful if the woman has a known medical condition where her blood test levels are likely to aďŹ&#x20AC;ect her fertility

levels are likely to affect her fertility.

The amount of eggs you have in your ovaries would be measured. This is important because every woman from birth has a certain number of eggs that can produced by your ovaries.

When this is measured in your blood, it gives the pointer as to the possibility of you being able to produce eggs at all. This is so important, especially with older women, and repeated failed egg collection, because it helps in a quick decision to be taken as to whether , you can use your own eggs or use donor eggs. This helps to save time wasting.

I have seen patients arguing as to whether it is important or not, because of the high cost of this test.

With most of these basic tests done , you must then bear these vital information behind your mind : When am I most fertile? r "OUSJBM GPMMJDMF DPVOU Antral Follicle Counts, also in 3D, are used to assess a womanâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s ovarian reserve by counting the small follicles produced each month. This scan gives a woman valuable information about her chances of success with any treatment as influenced by her ovarian age. If she is younger the test can, as interpreted by a doctor, suggest to a woman that she has some time yet before her natural fertility starts to decline.

'PS B XPNBO UP HFU QSFHOBOU r JOUFSDPVSTF NVTU UBLF QMBDF BSPVOE UIF UJNF when an egg is released from the ovary r UIF TZTUFNT UIBU QSPEVDF FHHT BOE TQFSN have to be working at optimum levels r UIF GBMMPQJBO UVCFT NVTU CF PQFO BOE IFBMUIZ r &HHT MJWF BOE DBO CF GFSUJMJTFE GPS m IPVST after being released, r BOE TQFSN DBO TUBZ BMJWF BOE BDUJWF JO ZPVS body for 12â&#x20AC;&#x201C;48 hours after ejaculation, so you donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t have to have intercourse at the exact moment of ovulation to get pregnant. r *U KVTU UBLFT POF TQFSN UP GFSUJMJTF UIF FHH GPS you to become pregnant. Although millions of sperm are released upon ejaculation, few survive the journey through the cervix, uterus and fallopian tubes. r *G GFSUJMJTBUJPO EPFT OPU UBLF QMBDF PS JG UIF fertilised egg does not attach itself to the endometrium lining of the uterus, it breaks down, the endometrium is shed and you have a period.

The bottom line is that , with a clearer explanation and understanding of what these basic tests can do assisting you and your fertility specialist in taking decisions very quickly , with a view to getting the problem solved as quickly as possible.

THISDAY, THE SATURDAY NEWSPAPER â&#x20AC;¢ JUNE 16, 2011

GL GLOBAL GLO LOB OBA BAL OB BAL S O OC OCC CC CCE CER SOCCER SO OCCER CCER A

WEEKLY PULL-OUT

06.05.2017

FEUD TO FRIENDS PAGE. 29

Victor Anichebe: Gone Down with Black Cats

30

THISDAY, THE SATURDAY NEWSPAPER • MAY 6, 2017

GLOBAL SOCCER

Gone Down With Black Cats

Victor Anichebe could not rescue Sunderland last Saturday as a win at home against Bournemouth could have kept alive their faint hopes of survival. Losing meant they have been relegated to the Championships. With hope of Super Eagles’ call-up a seeming mirage, Kunle Adewale writes about options available for Anichebe

W

hen Victor Anichebe’s name was excluded from the 23-man Super Eagles’ list to the 2010 World Cup in South Africa by the then national team coach, Lars Lagerback, on the ground that he was nursing an injury, which his club denied; many Nigerians cried foul over the exclusion of the then Everton of England striker. By the next mundial in Rio four years on, his wish to wear the jersey of the national team did not attract sympathy as spate of injuries denied him of regular shirts for his club.

To revive his dwindling career, Anichebe signed a deal with Sunderland until the end of the 2016/17 season after being without a club following his release by West Bromich

Albion.

However, the striker over the weekend fired blanks as his troubled club finally got relegated from the Premier League to the English Championships following terrible season under David Moyes as they were beaten by AFC Bournemouth at the Stadium of Light.

"I have a lot of good friends here and everyone knows that I know the manager really well. He brought me through as a young player and was a big factor in me coming here.

"I had a few options in England and Europe but the manager was a huge pull for me. He knows me inside out and I feel like he can get the best out of me," added Anichebe.

Before joining Sunderland, the 28year old Nigerian had only played

professionally for two other clubs, Everton and West Brom – spending a decade at the former right from the youth team. He was signed from Everton September 2013 and played 63 times for West Brom, scoring nine goals.

In a telephone chat with former Nigerian international, Friday Ekpo, he opined that China would not be a bad idea for Anichebe considering that he was prone to injury and an opportunity to make some money before finally calling it quits.

“The English Championship is very competitive and tough too. For a player to thrive there you must be 100 per cent fit and tough. So it’s not suitable for a player that is prone to injury. It’s just unfortunate that such is the lot of Anichebe because he had

a very bright future coming up.

“Not every footballer will get to its height, some due to injury and others to loss of form. It’s always very sad when injury knocks out life out of the career of a player,” Ekpo noted.

For another former Nigerian international, Paul Okoku, it is a shame the way Anichebe’s football career turned out after a promising career.

“Anichebe had all the potential to be a great player but injury never allowed him.

If you look at the way he started, if not for injury he would have been one of the top players in world football today. Any other player would have bowed out long ago, but not Anichebe. He is a fighter and really gave it a real fight. But what can one do when a nagging injury would not allow you play?

“Anybody that has been following his

31

MAY 6, 2017 • THISDAY, THE SATURDAY NEWSPAPER

GLOBAL SOCCER

career would not be really surprised at his decision to go as a free agent to Sunderland last season. It is shame that injury did not allow him to do what he knows how to do best. Maybe he would have added bite to Super Eagles attack in Nigeria’s last two World Cups if he had been fully fit,” the 1984 Africa Cup of Nations silver winner pointed out.

In the summer of 2014, Anichebe underwent surgery for a persistent groin injury that would hamper him during the 2014/15 campaign. The injury flared up in December 2014, but he shrugged it off and appeared to enjoy a new lease of life when Pulis was appointed as Alan Irvine's successor and scored in the 7-0 FA Cup hammering of Gateshead in January 2015, in what was Pulis' first game in full control of the team.

Pulis picked him on a regular basis and used him as a substitute in the first game of the 2015/16 season. But the Welshman was not enamoured with Anichebe's overall fitness as evidenced in his exile from the team.

Big Vic was not seen again until late September when he started the 3-0 Capital One Cup defeat at Norwich as a holding midfielder. Another three months elapsed before Anichebe, capped 11 times by his country, returned to the pitch against Newcastle.

A flurry of substitute appearances materialised early in 2016, but Anichebe did little to rescue his career or earn a new contract.

Popular with his teammates if not the fans, Anichebe left having scored nine goals in 63 games.

Before the 2014 World Cup in Brazil, former national team coach, Stephen Keshi, was toying with the idea of persuading Anichebe to end his international exile and the former Everton man was then not ruling out a comeback for the finals in Brazil.

“Right now, I’m playing well, feeling fit, strong and helping my team in the situation we are currently in at the moment. If I continue to play well from now to the end of the season, then we can take it from there. I’m grateful the coach says he is willing to give me

a chance, but I think everybody in Nigeria and around the world knows what I can do. Yes, the World Cup only comes once every four years and it could be my last opportunity – this is something I’m aware of but I haven’t spoken to anybody,” Anichebe said then.

In his last appearance for the Super Eagles, a 2-0 win over Madagascar in 2011, he suffered a groin problem.

Since then he has opted to concentrate on securing regular first-team football at club level. That decision has led to criticism from some Nigeria supporters but Anichebe rejects any suggestions he does not care about the country.

"I believe I have some good fans in Nigeria that understood and respected my decision to concentrate on getting fit," the footballer stated.

"Some players would have just joined the team, not in great condition but for personal gains. I see the bigger picture in things and it's worked for me. Nigeria also won the Nations Cup in 2013 and we got to discover other talents that we may not have got the chance to see.

"So any 'fan' that sees me as unpatriotic is just being unfair because if you check the meaning of patriotism it's the love and devotion you show for your country and I love Nigeria. I grew up in England but only see myself as a Nigerian and my long-term objective is a lot bigger than this because I hope to give back to my country.

"Football has given me a great platform but my aim is to help young people in Nigeria, so to say I'm not patriotic is ludicrous."

Anichebe is also keen to make it clear he did not decide to withdraw from international duty because he failed to make the World Cup squad four years earlier.

"I must commend the players that got Nigeria to last year's World Cup because I did the same thing a few years ago," he said.

“But then I played a friendly game and got man of the match in nearly every newspaper in Nigeria yet I still didn't go to South Africa, which was a shame and a great disappointment.

Right now, I’m playing well, feeling fit, strong and helping my team in the situation we are currently in at the moment. If I continue to play well from now to the end of the season, then we can take it from there I’m grateful the coach says he is willing to give me a chance, but I think everybody in nigeria and around the world knows what I can do.

Yes, the world cup only comes once every four years and it could be my last opportunity – this is something i’m aware of but I haven’t spoken to anybody

But I held no grudges and still returned to play for Nigeria before I suffered an injury. What happened in 2010 showed that some decisions obviously have no logic but that's life at times.

"The break has helped me to stay fit and enabled Nigeria the chance to discover other players."

Anichebe was born in Lagos but raised in Liverpool, made his Nigeria debut in 2008 after switching allegiances from England but missed out on selection for the 2010 World Cup. He played several times after the tournament in South Africa but then made himself unavailable to focus on his club career.

32

THISDAY, THE SATURDAY NEWSPAPER • MAY 6, 2017

GLOBAL SOCCER

Wenger, Mourinho Bury Differences Ahead of Top-Four Quest Arsene Wenger and Jose Mourinho have never hidden their disdain for each other and with their clash on Sunday in a game the outcome would shape their Champions League qualification, with Manchester United and Arsenal lying fifth and sixth respectively on the Premier League table. However, the two gladiators have expressed their willingness to put their rivalry behind and extend hands of fellowship

I

t is a sign of the times that these two great rivals once fighting for supremacy at the summit of English football reconvene at Emirates Stadium on Sunday in a desperate scrap for fourth place.

A scramble for the final Champions League qualification berth is a far cry from the blood and thunder battles Arsenal and Manchester United contested either side of the Millennium; an era embodied by the brutal physical and verbal confrontations between Patrick Vieira and Roy Keane.

The ferocious intensity of these encounters has subsided somewhat as firstly, the Gunners and subsequently United have both found themselves struggling to sustain a title challenge.

This weekend’s encounter is likely to be attritional for the wrong reasons; Arsenal are badly out of form and low on confidence while United are fatigued and depleted from a brutal run of fixtures, the latest of which had them travelling back from Spain late on

Thursday after a 1-0 win over Celta Vigo in their Europa League semi-final, first leg.

Although the two clubs have spent considerable sums in recent times, the quality of their current squads suggest they live firmly in the shadow of their respective former greats: Francis Coquelin versus Ander Herrera somehow does not quite have the same ring to it.

Aaron Ramsey is, however, well versed in the history of this fixture. “They were exciting games,” he reflected. “A few more tackles were let go in those days. Everyone was looking forward to that battle and there was normally a red card to show for it.

“They showed how passionate they were to try and win this game and how much it meant to them and the team to get a result. They wanted to get one over on each other so that’s what made it so exciting.

“Man Utd against Arsenal is a massive game no matter what the circumstances. It just shows how tight the Premier League is now with more teams fighting for the championship. Even though we are still off that a little bit with United, it is still a massive game.”

With Granit Xhaka set to miss out due to an ankle injury, Ramsey is expected to line-up in central midfield alongside Coquelin or perhaps Mohamed Elneny against United.

The Welshman was part of the team that thrashed United courtesy of a devastating first-half blitz in this fixture last season and he also scored the winner on the previous occasion Arsenal emerged on top in 2011.

In recent times Arsenal have been guilty of underperforming in big games for some time. Last month’s FA Cup semi-final success over Manchester City was an anomaly and Wenger has come under mounting pressure to walk away from the club during a run of eight defeats in 16 matches across all competitions.

Meanwhile, Wenger has claimed he is prepared to bury the hatchet with longterm adversary, Mourinho, ahead of tomorrow’s clash. The pair has been embroiled in a long-running feud ever since Mourinho first arrived in English football to take charge of Chelsea in 2004.

Mourinho has previously labelled

Wenger a “voyeur” and a “specialist in failure” while Wenger made their rivalry physical in October 2014 when the Frenchman pushed his counterpart on the touchline during a league game at Stamford Bridge.

Wenger had a similarly tempestuous relationship with Sir Alex Ferguson for years before age seemingly mellowed their rivalry.

When asked by Standard Sport whether something similar could soon happen with Mourinho, the 67-year-old replied: “I am open always in life for everything, you know, for peace. But what is important when you are a competitor is that you give absolutely everything to win the next game.

“We (Ferguson and Wenger) have respect. I think I try to respect everybody and I do not want to make a case of any person. I think it is important that I focus on my own team, the performance of my team and forget all the rest.” Both Arsenal and United require victory at Emirates Stadium to sustain their hopes of a top-four finish, with Wenger demanding a response

33

MAY 6, 2017 • THISDAY, THE SATURDAY NEWSPAPER

GLOBAL SOCCER Premier League Chelsea Tottenham Liverpool Man City Man Utd Arsenal Everton West Brom Southampton Bournemouth Leicester Stoke Watford Burnley West Ham Crystal Palace Hull Swansea Middlesbrough Sunderland

34 34 35 34 34 33 35 34 33 35 34 35 34 35 35 35 35 35 35 34

43 49 29 28 26 22 20 -4 -5 -13 -12 -13 -18 -14 -15 -10 -31 -29 -19 -34

81 77 69 66 65 60 58 44 41 41 40 40 40 39 39 38 34 32 28 21

34 34 34 34 34 34 34 34 34 34 34 34 34 34 34 34 34 34 34 34

48 44 43 24 19 13 20 8 9 0 -5 -17 -15 -8 -14 -26 -31 -25 -44 -43

84 75 74 67 64 59 56 55 49 46 43 41 41 39 38 30 29 25 19 14

Seria A Juventus Roma Napoli Lazio Atalanta Milan Inter Fiorentina Torino Sampdoria Udinese Cagliari Chievo Sassuolo Bologna Genoa Empoli Crotone Palermo Pescara

Premier League TODAY Man City Bournemouth Burnley Hull City Leicester Swansea

from his team following last weekend’s insipid 2-0 defeat at north London rivals Tottenham.

However, Mourinho says there were already no hard feelings as far as he was concerned ahead of the Emirates Stadium clash. “He doesn’t need to make peace. He doesn’t need to because there are no problems,” he told a pre-match press conference. “In the last match at Old Trafford we shook hands before, after. I remember that I still met him in the corridor for the press confer-

ences, we shook hands again. He doesn’t need to make peace. “When there is peace, I don’t have a problem. I am a big boy, I am in football all my life, and I know that a problem on the pitch is not a problem anymore the next day. So for me, no problem at all, and I think he will be very pleased that I am going to change my team to play against Arsenal, so I think he will be very happy with me.”

United will travel to the Emirates Stadium still trailing fourth-placed Manchester City by a point, with Arsenal a further five points back with a game in hand.

Messi: Ban Lifted after Appeal

L

ionel Messi is free to represent Argentina in their World Cup qualifiers after his four-match international ban was overturned on appeal.

The 29-year-old Barcelona forward was suspended for directing "insulting words" at an assistant referee during a 1-0 win over Chile in March.

He missed one match - Argentina's 2-0 World Cup qualifying loss to Bolivia..

A FIFA appeal committee said while his behaviour was "reproachable", the evidence was not sufficient.

He will now be available for matches against Uruguay, Venezuela and Peru as Argentina fight to secure a place at next summer's World Cup finals in Russia.

A fine of 10,000 Swiss francs

(£7,800) was also lifted.

During the Chile game, Messi was caught on camera venting his anger at an assistant who signalled he had committed a foul.

He was not shown a card at the time.

The FIFA appeal committee concluded "the evidence available was not sufficient to establish" an infringement had occurred.

"The appeal committee nevertheless underlines the importance of always showing respect to the match officials, stressing that such a principle is essential in football and any unsporting conduct that may be contrary to the principles of fair play cannot be accepted," it said in a statement.

Messi had faced missing Argentina's next three qualifiers, but will now be available for all four of their remaining four matches.

Argentina are fifth in their group of 10, with the top four qualifying automatically and the fifth team going into a play-off.

v v v v v v

Crystal Palace Stoke City West Brom Sunderland Watford Everton

12:30 15:00 15:00 15:00 15:00 17:30

v v

Southampton 13:30 Manchester Utd 16:00

MONDAY Chelsea

v

Middlesbrough

Romelu Lukaku Harry Kane Alexis Sánchez Diego Costa Sergio Agüero Zlatan Ibrahimovic Dele Alli Eden Hazard Jermain Defoe Joshua King Christian Benteke Mane

Everton Tottenham Arsenal Chelsea Man City Man Utd Tottenham Chelsea Sunderland Bournemouth Palace Liverpool

G LO B A L S O C C E R ASSISTANT EDITOR KUNLE ADEWALE WAHAB AKINTUNDE THISDAY ON SATURDAY EDITOR SHAKA MOMODU DEPUTY EDITOR YEMI ADEBOWALE THISDAY NEWSPAPERS EDITOR-IN-CHIEF/CHAIRMAN NDUKA OBAIGBENA

Barcelona l Madrid Atletico Sevilla Villarreal Bilbao Sociedad Eibar Espanyol Alavés Celta Vigo Malaga Valencia Las Palmas Real Betis Deportivo Leganés Sporting Granada Osasuna

35 34 35 35 35 35 35 35 35 35 34 35 35 35 35 35 35 35 35 35

71 53 40 18 24 13 6 9 -2 -5 -8 -7 -11 -14 -19 -20 -23 -32 -46 -47

81 81 71 68 63 62 61 54 50 48 44 42 40 39 37 32 30 24 20 19

31 31 31 31 31 31 31 31 31 31 31 31 31 31 31 31 31 31

62 25 26 30 1 1 -17 6 -4 7 -3 -6 -16 -11 -19 -29 -21 -32

73 63 58 57 46 45 44 42 42 41 41 36 35 33 33 33 29 24

Bundesliga Bayern Leipzig Hoffenheim Dortmund Hertha Bremen Freiburg Köln B’gladbach Schalke Frankfurt Leverkusen Augsburg Mainz Wolfsburg Hamburger Ingolstadt Darmstadt

Spanish La Liga Fixtures

SUNDAY Liverpool Arsenal

Hot Shots

La Liga

20:00

24 21 19 19 18 17 17 15 14 14 14 13

TODAY Sporting Atlético Barcelona Granada SUNDAY Alavés Valencia Deportivo Malaga MONDAY Leganés

v v v v

Las Palmas Eibar Villarreal Madrid

12:00 15:15 17:30 19:45

v v v v

Bilbao Osasuna Espanyol Celta Vigo

11:00 15:15 17:30 19:45

v

Real Betis

19:45

Serie A Fixtures TODAY TNapoli

v

Cagliari

17:00

Juventus SUNDAY

v

Torino

19:45

Udinese

v

Atalanta

11:30

Chievo

v

Palermo

14:00

Empoli

v

Bologna

14:00

Genoa

v

Inter

14:00

Lazio

v

Sampdoria

14:00

Pescara

v

Crotone

14:00

Sassuolo

v

Fiorentina

14:00

Milan

v

Roma

19:45

Inter

v

Napoli

19:45

Bundesliga Fixtures TODAY Dortmund

v

Hoffenheim

14:30

M’gladbach

v

Augsburg

14:30

Frankfurt

v

Wolfsburg

14:30

Munich

v

Darmstadt

14:30

Ingolstadt

v

Leverkusen

14:30

Hertha

v

Leipzig

17:30

MANAGING DIRECTOR ENIOLA BELLO

SUNDAY Hamburger

v

Mainz

14:30

DEPUTY MANAGING DIRECTOR KAYODE KOMOLAFE

Freiburg

v

Schalke 04

16:30

34

THISDAY, THE SATURDAY NEWSPAPER • MAY 6, 2017

GLOBAL SOCCERR\\OTHER SPORTS

Djokovic

L-R: Cletus Onyebuoha, Marketing Manager, Coca-Cola Nigeria; Victor Ikepba, ex-international footballer; Mrs. Akinba Aduke, Representative for the Minister of Education; Mallam Ibrahim Mohammad, President, Nigeria School Sports Federation (NSSF); and Soji Omoigui, Senior Brand Manager, Colas, Coca-Cola Nigeria, during Chairman of Energy and Mineral Resources (EMR), Seye Fadahunsi the 2017 COPA Coca-Colapress conference held at the National Stadium, Surulere presenting the trophy to Team Oyo Lagos recently

Djokovic Splits with Coaching Crew Novak Djokovic has announced he has split with his entire coaching team.The former world No 1 and 12-time Grand Slam winner hopes his "shock therapy" will help him achieve better results.

Djokovic said he had mutually agreed with his coach Marian Vajda, fitness coach Gebhard Phil Gritsch, and physiotherapist Miljan Amanovic to end their successful and long-term partnership after last month's Masters tournament in Monte Carlo.

"I am forever grateful to Marian, GG and Miljan for a decade of friendship, professionalism and commitment to my career goals. Without their support I couldn't have achieved these professional heights," said the Serbian on in a lengthy post on his website novakdjokovic.com.

"I know they completely dedicated themselves and their lives to help me achieve my dreams and they were always my driving force and wind on my back. It was not an easy decision, but we all felt that we need a change."

The 29-year-old, whose 122-week reign at the top of the rankings was ended by Andy Murray in November last year, says he is keen to find his "winning spark" again.

"I want to continue raising the level of my game and stamina and this is a continuous process. I enjoy this journey, it feels like I am starting something new again and I love this challenge.

I am a hunter and my biggest goal is to find the winning spark on the court again."

Djokovic, who is due back on court at this week's Madrid Open, added that he will take his time before deciding on his new coach.

"I want to find a way to come back to the top stronger and more resilient. I have so much faith in this process and that's why I will take time to find the right person who I can connect with professionally.

"I have been on the tour long enough to know how to manage daily routines and I don't want to rush my decision.

I will be on the tour alone for a while with the support of my family and management. I will inform the public when I find the right person, but for now, I thank you for your support and understanding."

Continental Basketball League Celebrates Lagos @ 50 with ‘May Madness Tourney’ In celebration of 50 years of Lagos State, Continental Basketball League has rolled out a Basketball Challenge tagged the ‘May Madness Tournament’ billed to tip off on May 12 at the Teslim Balogun Arena in Lagos.

Four Cities across Africa will play host to six teams; Eko Kings, Lagos City Stars, and Lagos Warriors from Lagos, the other African teams are; Libreville Izobe Dragons from Gabon, Abidjan Raiders from Abidjan and Yaoundé Giants from Cameroon.

The tournament which is expected to commence from May 12 to June 4, will

tip off with the Lagos Challenge. Teams will go head-to-head against each other in one of the most anticipated basketball challenges ever in the history of Africa, thereafter the teams will embark on a road trip to the capital of Cameroon, Yaoundé, tagged Yaoundé challenge from May 22-24.

The best of basketball will hit the court on May 27 and 28 for the tournament’s All Star weekend, where Celebrities will play against Basketball veterans, and youth players ,three pointers will be flying, and the backboard may break during the Slam Dunk contest.

And it all comes down to the top four teams who will meet in Libreville, Gabon, June 3 and 4 for the Final Four and Championship game.

Lagos, the commercial capital of Nigeria and the most cosmopolitan state in the country where people of every tribe, race and creed reside peacefully.

No doubt, there is a lot to look forward to in the month of May.

Button SaysIt’sa Dream ReturningtoMonacoGP Jenson Button says returning to F1 for the Monaco GP is a "dream" any driver would want to live, despite feeling as though he has "done my time" in the sport.

Six months after beginning what is still expected to lead to a full F1 retirement, Button will make what stands as a one-off return with McLaren in Monaco later this month while Fernando Alonso competes at the Indianapolis.

Speaking in an interview with Ted Kravitz which will air in Sky Sports, Button says he could not turn down

the request and that his "excitement" is now building.

"Of course when the chance came to race in Monaco I was going to take it," said Button at McLaren's Woking headquarters.

"I don't want to be racing in Formula 1 for a whole season because I've done my time in Formula 1. I've loved most of my career, but it was time for me to have a break. But to come back for the Monaco Grand Prix, that is just the dream for a racing driver.

"Coming in for a one-off race in

Monaco, the most glamorous grand prix on the calendar, that excitement is back. It comes back when you do a one-off race."

Button and McLaren decided against the 37-year-old driving the MCL32 for the first time at the Bahrain test last month, with the 2009 world champion instead working on the car in the team's simulator.

"There is so much more to learn again, but you jump into the simulator and after five laps it's like 'oh, okay, I've still got it then!'" said Button.

Groves Relishes Fourth World Title Challenge George Groves welcomes the "biggest pressure" of his career as he bids to finally become a world champion at the fourth time of asking. He will vie for the vacant WBA super-middleweight championship against Fedor Chudinov on May 27.

He twice fell short against Carl Froch for the world title before also losing to Badou Jack, but Groves insists that his best chance will come later this month.

"Fourth attempt, but the right time," he told Sky Sports News. "Some people

thought it was a foregone conclusion that I would beat Badou Jack but I was fighting away from home on a Floyd Mayweather card. I ended up losing a split decision, but this time it's in the UK. "Chudinov's style; he's a very tough eastern European fighter but I feel that I've got the beating of him. He hasn't boxed anyone as good as me."

Since losing his third world title challenge against Jack in Las Vegas, Groves has joined forces with trainer Shane McGuigan who

also oversees Carl Frampton and David Haye. Groves has strung together four consecutive wins under McGuigan's stewardship, most notably against Martin Murray.

"I wanted some fights to work with Shane first, before having another world title attempt," Groves said.

"Timing-wise, it's right. We've had a good, solid year with four wins. Against Martin Murray, it was a big win that put me back in the picture on the British scene.

Copa Coca-Cola

Driving Nigeria’sTeen Football Development The 2017 edition of Coca-Cola’s grassroots sports initiative, COPA Coca-Cola has officially kicked off with over 100,000 teens registered by the Nigerian School Sport Federation, NSSF, across 36 states of the federation including the Federal Capital Territory, Abuja.

"Football is more than just a game; it is a passion that a lot of teens connect with because of the emotion and excitement that is associated with it. Football gives them an identity and a chance to learn leadership skills. When they play, they give everything for the game. They sweat; push hard on the pitch and give their all. What better way to encourage their passion, than to provide them with a platform that helps them harness their skills in the game while also rewarding their passion for the game,” Cletus Onyebuoha, Marketing Manager, Coca-Cola, stated.

It is an open secret how growth of Nigerian football has been hindered by lack of commitments to grassroots development. At the moment, the country has an insignificant number of football academies in the country to nurture several hidden talents.

There is also very little being done in offering proper initiatives that would encourage the interest of young people in the sport, which explains why the country continues to lose so many young talents.

Over the years, COPA Coca-Cola has made huge difference in the lives of many young people, by connecting and engaging teens with the prospect of attaining their football dreams whilst also encouraging them to bond, form new friendships and acquire significant social skills through team involvement.

In this year’s edition of the tournament themed “COPA CocaCola Gives You More,” participation has been expanded to 5,000 schools across the 36 states of the federation including the FCT, Abuja, a quantum leap from the 2016 games which had 3,000 secondary schools from 32 states.

Furthermore, the beverage giant has stepped up on the reward for players by introducing an Education Trust Fund worth N22 million for each player that makes it to the top three positions.

“At the national level, players in the top three teams and the top schools will benefit from an education trust fund totaling N22 million as well as cash prizes totaling N2 million respectively.

There is also the golden boot for highest goal scorer, plaque for MVP, Golden gloves for best goal keeper and a trophy for the national winner,” Onyebuoha d.

He noted that the Education Trust Fund was included to cater for their educational needs just so to ensure that they are better prepared for their future.”

There is also the promise of football pitch makeovers worth over five million naira in total, for the winning team in all the 36 states and FCT, Abuja.

Certainly these are the best of times for Nigerian teens to take advantage of the competition, enjoy the best of football experience which COPA Coca-Cola offers as well as get rewarded for their football passion.

Bademosi U-19 Cricket: Ukpong, Fadahunsi Hail Team Oyo South West representative on the board of the Nigeria Cricket Federation, Okon Ukpong has hailed the Oyo State team at the just concluded Jide Bademosi U-19 Cricket tournament held at the Liberty Stadium Cricket Oval, Ibadan.

Team Oyo were in devastating form at the tournament as the Runsewe Sulaimon captained team defeated all comers to the trophy. Lagos, Ogun and Osun were the other teams at the competition.

Reacting to the outcome, Okon who was tournament co-ordinator said he was not surprised at the exploits of the Oyo state team.

“We have a very healthy cricket culture in the state and Ibadan in particular. You see these kids, they train with the Indians here and we have a developmental programme which engages them at very early age. We monitor their growth and development", he said Ukpong said he was looking forward to the second edition which he projected would be tougher because other states would be better prepared, as“From what we saw, they now know it is no child's play.”

THISDAY, THE SATURDAY NEWSPAPER Ëž Í´Ë&#x153; Í°ÍŽÍŻÍľ

35

INSIGHT

Alleged One million Disparity in the 2015 Kano Elections Results Abdullahi Usman

T

he much anticipated launch of one of the first in the series of publications on the 2015 general elections titled, â&#x20AC;&#x153;Against the Run of Play: How an incumbent president was defeated in Nigeriaâ&#x20AC;?, has come and gone. As part of the build up to its public presentation in Lagos on Friday, April 28, 2017, several print and online media outlets provided their readers with snippets, in the form of serialised sections of the book, which further heightened public expectation ahead of its formal launch.

Following from these serialized snippets, a number of the principal actors featured in the book, who had cause to disagree with claims made by certain individuals in different chapters of the book, have offered their own perspectives and counter narratives to some of the accounts, while some major foreign missions also issued statements absolving their respective countries of any complicity in the electionâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s outcome, as claimed. One of such issues raised is a rather curious claim relating to an alleged huge disparity in the election results from Kano in respect of the two sets of elections conducted by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) on Saturday, March 28, 2015; i.e. the presidential and National Assembly elections.

Much as one would ordinarily have preferred to steer clear from making any comments on this matter, it is highly imperative that issues like this, which have already been captured in book form for posterity, are promptly clarified, lest they become accepted as the gospel truth by generations to come.

Before I get to the specifics of the claim proper, however, it is important that I drop an important disclaimer: this intervention represents nothing more than an effort at setting the records straight, using verifiable figures from officially declared results of those elections. It is not an attempt at joining issues with anyone in particular, especially in view of the public standing of some of the individuals involved.

It is also not meant as a challenge to the author of this important publication regarding the accuracy of the figures quoted, as he was merely reproducing information relayed to him and verified over several interview

sessions with the respective respondents in the course of compiling the book. I will, therefore, try as much as possible to avoid making direct reference to any individual or political party by name, even as nobody who has either read the book, or followed the news leading up to its formal launch, will be left in any doubt as to the real identity of the personalities and/or entities involved.

In the introductory section on pages 17 and 18 of the 221-page book, reference was made to a potential disparity of one million votes in the declared election results from Kano State, as reported, inter alia; â&#x20AC;&#x153;Go and check the results from Kano. The presidential election and that of 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 millionâ&#x20AC;?. In the same introductory section, a friend and former colleague in the electoral commission described this as â&#x20AC;&#x153;nothing particularly specialâ&#x20AC;?, and went on to explain, amongst others, that the alleged scenario in Kano was a â&#x20AC;&#x153;general trend (across the country) as many voters were more interested in the presidential election than in other electionsâ&#x20AC;?, even though he was not specifically recorded as having disputed that outrageous disparity as projected in the distorted claim he was referring to.

While not necessarily disagreeing with the above submission regarding possible voter preferences with respect to different elections, it is very important to stress, for the purpose of emphasis, that 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. This is particularly necessary, in view of the fact that similar reasons had earlier been adduced to explain away an identical situation that occurred during the disputed 2003 general elections, where the total votes cast in respect of the presidential election in Ogun State exceeded those of the governorship election by a whopping 618,017 votes, even though both elections were held at the same time, with each voter issued with the two sets of ballots simultaneously.

For the records, the two elections in reference were conducted simultaneously nationwide

on March 28, 2015, with National Assembly election here referring to the election for the positions of Senator and House of Representatives member in each stateâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s three Senatorial Districts and stipulated number of Federal Constituencies respectively. Therefore, in essence, three separate elections were simultaneously conducted on the said date, comprising the presidential election, representing a single election for the position of president nationwide; senatorial election, made up of three seats per state, and; House of Representatives election, where the number of seats up for grabs varied from state to state.

As a result, for the purpose of comparing the number of people that voted in the presidential election with the voter turnout in each of the two other distinct National Assembly elections in any state, we must first individually arrive at the total number of votes cast in each of the two separate National Assembly elections in that state. And, to do that, the three Senatorial Districts vote tallies must necessarily be added together to get the cumulative number in respect of the senatorial election in the entire state, while the total number of Federal Constituencies in respect of the House of Representatives seats contested for in that state (which happens to be 24 in the case of Kano) must equally be tallied together to arrive at the grand total. The three can then be compared to see if there is any disparity amongst them, before we can then begin to talk about what the probable reasons for such a disparity - if any - might possibly be.

As we may recall from our elementary school mathematics lessons, the part cannot be greater than the whole. Consequently, the reference to 1.8 million as the total number of people that voted in the presidential election in Kano cannot logically be correct, in a situation where one of the 14 presidential candidates alone secured over 1.9 million votes in that same election. In truth, therefore, the total number of votes cast in the 2015 presidential election in Kano State was 2,172,447, as captured on INECâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s official results collation document, the Presidential Election Summary of Results From States â&#x20AC;&#x153;Form EC 8D (A)â&#x20AC;?, 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.

This figure is broken down as follows: party/ candidate with the highest number of votes scored a total of 1,903,999 votes; party/candidate that came second scored 215,779 votes; the remaining 12 parties/candidates cumulatively scored a total of 9,043 votes (which made it essentially a two horse race), giving the total valid votes as 2,128,821, while the number of rejected votes stood at 43,626, representing 2.01% of total votes cast. Total number of registered voters in the state was 4,943,862, while number of accredited voters was 2,364,434, with the difference of 191,987 between this figure and total votes cast accounted for by those that failed to show up and cast their vote after accreditation (which, as we may recall, was conducted separate from voting).

The rejected votes as a percentage of total votes cast of 2.01% for Kano is not dissimilar to that of many other states that recorded large voter turnout across the country during that election. Examples of such are Kaduna (total votes cast - 1,650,201), Rivers (1,584,768 votes), Katsina (1,481,714 votes), Delta (1,284,848 votes) and Akwa Ibom (1,028,551 votes) with rejected votes percentages of 1.98%, 1.22%, 2.17%, 1.33% and 1.12% respectively. The overall rejected votes percentage nationwide stood at 2.87% of the 29,432,083 total votes cast, compared to 3.19% recorded during the 2011 general elections (total votes cast - 39,469,484), which serves as indicator to the probable success of the massive voter education program that preceded the 2015 general elections.

In terms of the two National Assembly elections, both of which also ended up as a two horse race between the two leading political parties in the country, the breakdown of INECâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s officially declared results in respect of votes scored by the two major parties as published in various national dailies (i.e. excluding rejected votes and the cumulative votes scored by the other competing parties in the election) across the three Senatorial Districts and 24 Federal Constituencies in the state are as follows: â&#x20AC;&#x201C;â&#x20AC;&#x201C;Abdullahi Usman (usmanabd@gmail. com) PA to former INEC Chairman

PERSPECTIVE

Adeniyiâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Book and how History Will Judge Jonathan, Obasanjo in Nation Building Comrade Newton Chigozie

T

here are obviously two people who have been enthusiastically celebratory since last week, when a new book on the 2015 elections entitled, â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;Against the Run of Playâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; was unveiled. One, understandably so, is the chairman of THISDAY editorial board Segun Adeniyi who has every cause to savour the widespread attention his latest effort is receiving across the nation.

The other is ex-President Olusegun Obasanjo, a main respondent in the book. His excitement is also not strange because of his proclivity to cling on every straw to massage his vaunted ego and promote his usually exaggerated fantasy on his questionable heroism and patriotism.

As the confessed lead undertaker, exuberant for his kill in the failed Jonathan return in 2015 elections, with all the caustic reversals of our collective fortunes as Nigerians, many Nigerians thought his magical prescription of AOBJ (any other but Jonathan) is fully tested and should be rested.

But we are sourly mistaken. This much is apparent going by the trending fusillades from Obasanjo to Jonathan, so royally captured in Adeniyiâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s new book which is currently trending.

In this captive narratives of pre-2015 elections role players, betrayers and conspirators, Obasanjo who squeezed the final fatal shot on the Jonathan project is still reveling to cremate the body and possibly spread the ash on his farm

Obasanjo for his ultimate spot of fun. Really?

In this same book, Obasanjo harboured no qualms in dramatically denying any fore knowledge of late President Yarâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;adua ailment prior to his election, yet refused to allow him rest in peace as he went ahead to insinuate scorn on him â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;as a fickle and feeble person widely known to be ruled by his manipulative wife.

Not done, Obasanjo descended a base lower by graphically adorning President Jonathan as â&#x20AC;&#x153;incurably inept, who cleverly appropriated

Boko Haram malaise as his ATM to our national treasury alongside his lieutenantsâ&#x20AC;? Etcetera.

These are the mirthless toxins with which a former president and chancellor of his University serenades his colleagues in the public place, ironically those he boasts of playing the unchallenged godfather to locate, profile and recruit.

We are appalled and scandalized that a greying past president who has a farm, a university and infact the only presidential library in this country, is not famed for the development ideas he generates, food he produces or scholarships he endowed to mitigate our dire national emergencies, but rather a profound faculty for unravelling persons he helped make and those that made him.

This is why Nigerians must wake up, and I purposefully urge them to so do now, to completely and totally ignore him. We have seen and tasted enough of his â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;mixes and potionsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; notorious for absence of elementary positive potency.

His latest offerings and explanations on that book â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;Against the Run of Playâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; are no less useless to our development as a people. They are soiled excuses where apologies should have been neater, tasteless gravitas where decency would have been braver. It is sadly pointless to stay glued to a masquerade whose habitual entertainment is build and destroy, raise and cut down, nurture and neutralize.

Of course former president Jonathan is not a man without sins of political missteps. He does

have enough, but obviously less perilous than our high horse Judge Advocate. Jonathan gave his word that his victory in 2015 is not worth the blood of any Nigerian, he kept it. He had executive powers but never used it to sabotage our electoral process. Rather he entrenched Nigeria in the comity of growing democracies.

He never gagged the judiciary or the legislature. He respected free speech. He energized Nigerian democracy the way no other has done or attempted by organising the best elections yet. He quit the scene noiselessly and went into personal hibernation without fuss or fury.

He is not throwing tantrums left right and centre to pull down individuals or legacies.

What then is the heck?

What are Obasanjoâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s comparisons to these sterling records? Obasanjo derobed his vice president publicly, demystified the institutions of the National Assembly, cowed the judiciary, denied assent to Freedom of Information Bill, compromised the electoral body INEC, stunted opposition, ruined our national assets, and above all moved in to mow down our democracy through an illegitimate third term bid. Of course it failed, but not without dragging the nation deeper into the gorge of corruption with the Ghana-Must-Go bags of bribe money displayed openly on the floor of the National Assembly. Charming credentials indeed for the then â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;trending father of a new Nigeriaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;. â&#x20AC;&#x201C;â&#x20AC;&#x201C;Comrade Chigozie is President, Network for National Development (NENADEV)

36

THISDAY, THE SATURDAY NEWSPAPER Ëž ÍžË&#x153; ͺ͸͚;

FAIRGROUND

When Azuh Arinze Unveiled the CEOâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;S Bible

with

AZUKA OGUJIUBA

azuka.ogujiuba@thisdaylive.com

T

he CEOâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Bible, the over 800page two-volume compendium written by Azuh Arinze, Publisher/Editor-in-Chief of YES INTERNATIONAL! Magazine, was presented to the public on, March 24, at the Nigerian Institute of International Affairs, in Lagos amidst pomp and circumstance.

Chaired by former APCON Chairman and GMD of SO&U Advertising, Mr. Udeme Ufot, the book reviewer was Dr. Tunji Olugbodi of Verdant Zeal while the special guest of honour was the Minister of Transportation, Rt. Hon. Rotimi Chibuike Amaechi, represented by NIMASA DG, Dr. Dakuku Peterside.

Other notable faces at the star-studded book presentation were Apostle Anselm Madubuko of Revival Assembly; Bishop Isaac Idahosa of Illumination Assembly; Dr. Larry Izamoje of Brila FM; Prince Bisi Olatilo of Biscon Communications; Mr. Steve Babaeko of X3M Ideas; Mr. Emeka Oparah of Airtel; Mr. Yomi BadejoOkusanya of CMC Connect; Mr. Tokunbo Modupe of TPT International; Mr. Mudi Enajemo of Mudi Africa; Mr. Uche Nnaji of Ouch; Mr. Adewale Adegbaiye of Kijipa; Mr. Kachi Onubogu of Promasidor; Mr. Kunle Onime of MPC International; Mr. Charles Aigbe of Fidelity Bank; Sir Gbenga Badejo of GBC Consulting; property merchant, Eunice Efole and other renowned businesswomen like Dr. (Mrs.) Quincy Ayodele of Quincy Herbals, Alhaja Tai Elemesho-Okesanjo of Montai and Deaconess Bolanle Oginni of Blessed Water.

From the media came Mrs. Funke Egbemode, President, Nigerian Guild of Editors and MD, New Telegraph; Mr. Steve Nwosu, DMD of The Sun Newspapers; Mr. Kunle Bakare, CEO of Encomium Weekly; Mr. Mayor Akinpelu, Publisher, Global Excellence; Mr. Mike Awoyinfa, former MD of The Sun Newspapers; Mr. Loye Amzat, Publisher, News of the People; Mr. Mike Effiong, Editor, Ovation, among many others. Chief Tony Onyima and Mr. Aniekan Umanah, both former Commissioners for Information in Anambra and Akwa Ibom States respectively, equally attended.

Showbiz stars were, of course, not left out. Among those that were around to celebrate with the author were the Elegant Stallion and songster, Lady Onyeka Onwenu; Bonsue fuji maestro, Adewale Ayuba; king of comedy, Ali Baba; alongside five of his colleagues, Okey Bakassi, Tee A, Koffi, Teju Baby Face and Gbenga Adeyinka, who also anchored the event.

Then, dashing star actor cum producer, Saint Obi as well as fellow actor and model, Arinze Okonkwo, Mama Taiwo Ajai-Lycett and Ngozi Zack-Orji. Top film makers and Ejiro brothers, Zeb and Chico, were equally there. Likewise the organizer of the popular Abuja Film Festival, Fidelis Duker and Teco Benson.

Kicking off right on time, the book presentation, which was spiced up with so much fun and fanfare, equally attracted legal giant and National Legal Adviser, All Progressives Congress, Dr. Muiz Banire, SAN; human rights lawyers, Monday Ubani, Richard Akinnola and Adindu Ugwuzor as well as Hon. Funmi Tejuosho, former Deputy Speaker, Lagos State House of Assembly and Hon. Tunde Braimoh, current Chairman, House Committee on Media, Lagos State House of Assembly.

The CEOâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Bible is a compendium of sorts; an inspiring expose with 90 incisive and exclusive interviews with major players across professions.

It took the author five years to put together the materials. The book has continued to garner wide acclaim. According to Mr. Biodun Shobanjo of Troyka Holdings who wrote the Foreward, â&#x20AC;&#x153;It is a book whose time has comeâ&#x20AC;?.

Dr. Larry Izamoje, Mr. Yomi Badejo-Okusanya, Dr. Tunji Olugbodi, Ms. Eunice Efole, Sir Azuh Arinze, Mr. Udeme Ufot, Mrs. Anna Azuh, Dr. Dakuku Peterside and Lady Onyeka Onwenu during the unveiling of CEOâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Bible at the event.... recently

Mr. Azuh Augustus, Sir Azuh Arinze, Dr. Dakuku Peterside, Dr. Tunji Olugbodi and friend

Mr. Uche Nnaji and DJ Jimmy Jatt

Dr. Adewale Ayuba, Sir Azuh Arinze and Mr. Ehi Braimah

Ms. Eunice Efole, and guest and Mr. Steve Nwosu

Dr. Larry Izamoje, Lady Onyeka Onwenu and Sir Azuh Arinze

Mr. Ikem Okuhu, Sir Azuh Arinze and Mr. Steve Babaeko

Mr. Yomi Badejo-Okusanya, Mr. Gbenga Adeyinka, Sir Azuh Arinze and Mr. Adewale Adeowo

Mr. Emeka Oparah, Mr. Richard Akinnola, Mr. Mike Awoyinfa and Mr. Chris Nwandu

And for Dr. Dakuku Peterside of NIMASA, â&#x20AC;&#x153;The CEOâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Bible is one of the most treasured reference books in our recent history.â&#x20AC;? Mr. Simon Kolawole, Publisher, The Cable, described it as â&#x20AC;&#x153;a business school on its own,â&#x20AC;? while former MD of

The Sun Newspapers, Mr. Mike Awoyinfa summed it up as â&#x20AC;&#x153;A great compendium, a reference book for any one that wants to acquire wisdom.â&#x20AC;?

Mr. Emeka Oparah of Airtel was, however, very dramatic in his descrip-

tion. Hear him: â&#x20AC;&#x153;Forget that MBA programmeâ&#x20AC;Śgrab The CEOâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Bibleâ&#x20AC;?.

Now on sale throughout the country, a set, comprising Volumes 1 & 2, goes for N5000 and could be delivered at no extra cost anywhere in Lagos.

Mr. Azuh Amatus, Bishop Isaac Idahosa, Mr. Zeb Ejiro,

37

THISDAY, THE SATURDAY NEWSPAPER Ëž ÍžË&#x153; ͺ͸͚;

FAIRGROUND

The movie BUSTED â&#x20AC;&#x153;A Lone Roadâ&#x20AC;?

N

ow, this two sisters who have gradually grabbed their niche in the Nigerian movie industry, Face Onu is the executive producer and Lisa her younger sister is the producer of the movie. This sisters are delectable and very artistic minded, apart from the producer of the movie Lisa is also an actress. Lisa has featured in a few movie. This movie has shown Lisaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s prowess in the industry.

All about Busted Is this a controversial love story in the modern-day world? The things and acts that are classified abomination to a certain society have suddenly become the trend of the modern-day technology era. Queen Edwards, a girl born into a decent home where her fatherâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s strictness and motherâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s ignorance led her into the arms of a maid whose consolation changed and switched her entire life style. All grown up now and

unknown to her parents, she (Queen) started having affairs with several ladies and breaking their hearts as she was a player. In the course of this lifestyle she eventually meets and falls in love with Blessing; another beautiful young lady who willingly surrendered to the same lifestyle due to the peer pressure and also to sponsor her education and support her family. The drama begins when the Nigerian Law passed a bill in the constitution against public display of same sex affection or the act of same sex marriage. Ignoring the biblical belief and what the society thinks of them, the law becomes their tussle which leads to the test of their love. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Bustedâ&#x20AC;? is written and produced

by Face Onu and it stars renowned Nollywood actors: Liz Benson, Kate Henshaw, Lisa Onu, IK Ogbonna, and Paul Obazele amongst others. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Bustedâ&#x20AC;? will be premiered on the 21st of May 2017, at Lagos Oriental Hotel by 7:00pm.

Face Onu (Executive Producer, Busted) and Lisa Onu (Producer)

AU Unveils 2017 AFRIMA Calendar in South Africa The African Union Commission, AUC, has formally unveiled the 2017 All Africa Music Awards, AFRIMA calendar at the World Media unveiling event held on Tuesday, May 2 at The Maslow Hotel, Sandton, South Africa.

The ceremony was attended by AU officials, members of the International Committee of AFRIMA, past AFRIMA winners and nominees from Southern African, media executives in Southern Africa and other stakeholders in the creative/entertainment industry in Africa.

During the unveiling, President/Executive Producer, AFRIMA, Mr. Mike Dada made known that the first activity on the continental awards event calendar would be submission of entries, which opens globally on Monday, May 8 and submission closes on Monday, July 17, 2017.

Dada advised artistes, managers, producers, record label owners, video directors, publicists and entertainment/ music journalist to submit their works or those of their artistes within the stipulated timeline in order to stand a chance at the awards. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Irrespective of how popular an artiste or their works are in Africa, failure to submit for the awards means their chances of being nominated for AFRIMA 2017 is practically non-existent,â&#x20AC;? Dada pointed out.

While delivering the African Union opening address at the event, Head of

L-R: Angela Martins, Head of Culture, African and Union and Yoel Kenan, CEO, Africori, Digital Music Solutions

Culture Division, African Union Commission, Ms. Angela Martins, thanked the government of the Republic of South Africa and the people for receiving the AUC and AFRIMA for the calendar unveiling.

She added: â&#x20AC;&#x153;We would like to hail the All Africa Music Awards initiative for the laudable impact it has for its three editions (2014, 2015 and 2016). AFRIMA has

been able to mobilise millions of people and renowned artistes from the five regions of Africa.â&#x20AC;?

Speaking further about the partnership with the All Africa Music Awards, AFRIMA and the African Union Commission, Ms Martins said: â&#x20AC;&#x153;We wish to thank AFRIMA for allowing us to popularize this continent policy tool on its platforms and we call upon all of you here present

to assist in popularizing these continental tools.â&#x20AC;?

Some of the attendees during the unveiling were African music stars such as: Wax Dey; Sjava; Buffalo; Mi Casa; Busiswa; The Soil; Heavy K; Ugly Priddy; Cindy Munyavi and Fungisia, among others. Other music industry stakeholders present included: MD, Africori Digital Music Solutions, Mr. Yoel Kenyan; MD, Content Connect International, Mr. Munya Chanesta; Group Manager, Africa Sales and Marketing, Sun International, Ms. Jennifer Beattie; Director, Vth Season Management and Ms. Ninel Musson to name a few.

The All Africa Music Awards, AFRIMA, is a music property developed to celebrate, reward and showcase the rich musical culture of Africa, stimulate conversations among Africans and between Africa and the rest of the globe about the great potential and values of the African culture and artistic heritage for the purpose of creating jobs, reducing poverty, calling attention of world leaders to Africa and promoting the positive image of Africa to the world.

AFRIMA is centred on the promotion and marketing of African music and is by far the largest gathering of such magnitude of stakeholders in Africa. Hosting of this event is earnestly sought by different African countries due to the great leveraging opportunities that the platform provides.

Industry Stakeholders Commends â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;Slow Countryâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; At Premiere

T

he award-winning action movie â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;Slow Countryâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; was greatly commended by industry stakeholders present at its premiere last night, May 1st at the Genesis cinemas, Lekki.

Film director, screenwriter and film producer Lancelot Imasuen gave kudos to Eric Aghimien for his latest movie â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;Slow Countryâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;.

He stated that both the movie and its cast were impressive.

Actress Belinda Effah in her comment on the movie immediately after the premiere stated that it was a great movie.

BBNaija Bassey Ekpenyong who was also present at the premiere could not get over how excellent the movie was. According to him â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;The movie is an excellent one; I was fully concentrated on watching it that I couldnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t even eat my popcornâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;

Others at the premiere not only commended the director and the entire cast and crew of the movie, but also stated that the movie was not just phenomenal, but it was also a breath of fresh air from the usual Nollywood movies.

The premiere was also attended by celebrities, filmmakers and top executives like Emem Isong, Linda Ejiofor, Sambasa Nzeribe, Wole Ojo, Kiki Omeili, Olumide Oworu, Richard Brutus, Tonikan, Ademola Adedoyin, Judith Audu, TK Ahmed, Christina Martin, Daniel Oriahi, Nkubi Wazobia and many others.

The movie which has been described as the most believable action movie in Nollywood follows the story of Kome, a homeless teenage mother, who in a bid to cater and secure a good life for her son Peter sought refuge in the arms of a drug kingpin Tuvi.

The kingpin ushers her into the world of

prostitution and drug trafficking.

However, when faced with a serious dilemma and the sudden return of her ex-boyfriend Osas who desperately wants to win her heart, having abandoned her for seven years, she gets fed up and attempts to break free.

She pleads with her boss to let her quit the underworld, but he is not ready to let go of his most trusted cash cow.

The action movie stars amazing and talented actors like Ivie Okujaiye-Egboh who played the role of Kome, Sambasa Nzeribe who played Tuvi, the drug kingpin, Tope Tedela as Osas, and Majid Michel as Inspector Dave. Others are Richard Brutus as Brasko, Gina Castel as Ola, Adebayo Thomas as Peter, Victor Eriabie, Imoudu â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;DJ Moeâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; Ayonete, and Shola Thompson-Adewale.

The movie will make its cinema debut on May 19th.

Eric Aghimien and Majid Mitchel

38

THISDAY, THE SATURDAY NEWSPAPER ˾ Í´Ë&#x153; ͺ͸͹Ϳ

Í´Ë&#x153; ͺ͸͹Ϳ ˾ THISDAY, THE SATURDAY NEWSPAPER

39

40

Ë&#x153; Ëž AY 6, 2017

WRITERSâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; WORLD

A Look at Fast-growing Independent Publishers

BISI DANIELS bisi.daniels@thisdaylive.com Blog: www.bisidaniels.com, 08050220700

As highlighted last week, some self-published authors are smiling to the banks and so are some independent publishers. In this review by Jim Milliot and Claire Kirch, almost half of the companies on this yearâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s list of Publishers Weekly posted triple-digit gains between 2014 and 2016. It is a good resource material for authors

F

ive of the 11 publishers on this yearâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s list posted triple-digit revenue gains in 2016 compared to 2014, and two publishers saw their revenue shoot over the $10 million mark in the past year.

Cottage Door Press: This Company that had the biggest gain on this yearâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s list was founded in 2014, but it didnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t sell its first book until 2015. Cottage Door Press, which publishes childrenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s books, released 18 titles in 2015 and another 82 titles last year. It plans to publish 50 in 2017. Between 2014 and 2016, the press also doubled in personnel, from nine to 19 employees, and it is preparing to move from Barrington, Ill., to a larger facility in the Chicago suburb of Deerpark.

Cottage Doorâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s 2016 revenue skyrocketed 558% from the previous yearâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s figure. The publisherâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s debut list in 2015 focused on titles for babies and toddlers up to age three, but the publisher intends to expand its target audience to include four- and five-year-olds, beginning with a line of titles published in partnership with the Smithsonian Institution.

Though Cottage Door is a young company, its apparent overnight success might be due to the fact that most of its staff are childrenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s publishing industry veteransâ&#x20AC;&#x201D;most notably its founder, Richard Maddrell, who served until his retirement as president of Publications International. Cottage Doorâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s creative team conceives, designs, and produces the pressâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s list with the assistance of freelance illustrators. The emphasis, says marketing manager Melissa Tigges, is on high-quality books that are â&#x20AC;&#x153;on top of current trendsâ&#x20AC;?â&#x20AC;&#x201D;such as STEM and STEAMâ&#x20AC;&#x201D; and â&#x20AC;&#x153;hot formats,â&#x20AC;? including padded board books, lift-a-flap, touch-and-feel, books that make sounds, and books made with engineered paper.

Every Cottage Door book has a removable sticker it calls the Early Bird Learning Guide: the sticker informs the buyer of the bookâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s appropriate age range and which skills the child is developing when that particular book is read. â&#x20AC;&#x153;We believe in educating and entertaining both children and their grown-ups,â&#x20AC;? Tigges said. â&#x20AC;&#x153;We choose artwork and language that interests, informs, and stretches their growing minds.â&#x20AC;?

Callisto Media: Ever since it released its first list in 2012, it has relied on the same formula for success: increasing title production, selling more copies per title, and broadening distribution.

Those goals were achieved in 2016, according to v-p for marketing Holly Smith, and revenue jumped by 111% compared to 2015. Last yearâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s revenue soared 286% above the 2014 figure, and the company surpassed the $10 million sales level last year.

Smith says that in 2016, Callisto had some â&#x20AC;&#x153;extremely successfulâ&#x20AC;? frontlist releases, including Instant Pot Electric Pressure Cooker Cookbook, Kid Chef, and The Whole 9 Months.

And, she adds, the publisherâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s backlist, now at 383 titles, has become a â&#x20AC;&#x153;very strong component of our success as well.â&#x20AC;? New areas for Callisto, which continues to use data analytics to spot consumer trends, include parenting and kids, fitness, and self-help.

Europa Editions: The popularity of Elena Ferranteâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Neapolitan Quartet has increased steadily over the past few years, propelling a sales gain of 156% in 2015 over 2014 and another 47% revenue rise in 2016. Editor-in-chief Michael Reynolds acknowledges the importance of Ferrante to the 12-year-old companyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s success, but he notes that the balance of its list, focused on publishing authors from all over the world in the British and North American markets, has also contributed to its growth.

The companyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s backlist has performed solidly, with two titles that Europa released in 2015, The Distant Marvels and The Popeâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Daughter,

continuing to sell well into 2016. Frontlist books that did well last year included The Natural Way of Things, Shelter in Place, and The Life of Elves

by Muriel Barbery, whose The Elegance of the Hedgehog was one of Europaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s first hits.

Reynolds thinks the success of Ferranteâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s series has helped Europaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s entire list gain more visibility in the market, but he also believes the company is doing a more effective job marketing its books.

Title output has remained around 29 per year, and its four-person American office shares staff (designer, financial officer, production manager, and typesetter) with Edizioni E/O, its sister company in Rome.

Greystone Books: Canada Greystone has flourished since it was relaunched as an indie press in 2013, when former publisher Rob Sanders led a consortium that bought the imprint from its bankrupt parent company. With Sanders as publisher, the press, which is best known for its books on nature and the environment by authors from Canada and elsewhere, has grown its revenue. Its 2016 sales were more than double the 2015 figure, and were up 253% compared to 2014.

Greystone, which counts among its 14 employees a U.K.-based publicist to promote books and authors there, attributes its success to a focus on international sales. According to sales and marketing manager Jen Gauthier, â&#x20AC;&#x153;Publishing worldwide is a key strategy.â&#x20AC;?

A glance at Greystoneâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s top sellers also reveals a savviness about making acquisitions that appeal to a broad market. Almost every year, the

publisher has released a bestseller, beginning with 2013â&#x20AC;&#x2122;s pictorial chronicle of devastating floods in Alberta in partnership with the Calgary Herald.

The Flood of 2013 has sold 55,000 copies to date.

In 2015 Greystone acquired North American English-language rights to the German bestseller Gut: The Inside Story of Our Bodyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Most Underrated Organ by Giulia Enders, which has sold 90,000 print copies and 24,000 e-books to date.

But it was a 2016 release that caused Greystoneâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s sales to skyrocket this past year: The Hidden Life of Trees by Peter Wohlleben, originally published in Germany, was translated into English and released simultaneously in North America and in the U.K. The Greystone edition has sold 240,000 copies worldwide (150,000 in the U.S.). The press hopes to keep up the momentum by releasing another book by Wohlleben, The Inner Life of Animals, in November.

Page Street Publishing has continued its rapid sales growth since it was launched in 2013

by Will Kiester. The pressâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s revenue was 31% higher in 2016 than in 2015 and up 117% from 2014. Page Streetâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s early success has helped to propel more success, as Kiester says he feels confident reinvesting in the company by continuing to add new employees and titles.

In fact, Page Street expects more increases in the next few years and is upping its title count to around 70 for 2017. Earlier this year, the company hired Kristen Nobles to head its effort to establish a new childrenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s book list. Kiester hopes the list â&#x20AC;&#x153;will serve as a significant growth engine starting

in late 2018 and hitting its stride in 2019.â&#x20AC;?

In 2016, Page Street expanded beyond cookbooks, its core focus, to other lifestyle subjects.

Kiester says A Touch of Farmhouse: Easy DIY Projects to Add a Warm and Rustic Feel to Any Room was a good example of a book â&#x20AC;&#x153;outside of our comfort areaâ&#x20AC;? that performed very well, even selling out shortly after its release in December.

He notes that he is prepared to slow Page Streetâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s growth if he believes the quality of its products is starting to decline, but adds that â&#x20AC;&#x153;that hasnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t been the case to date.â&#x20AC;?

Diversion Books has undergone quite a metamorphosis since Scott Waxman launched the company as the e-book publishing arm of his literary agency in 2010. Diversion was spun off as its own company several years ago and signed with Ingram Publisher Services in late 2014, and the addition of print publishing and distribution components sparked a 84% increase in revenue in 2016 compared to 2014.

The lack of quality backlist e-book rights to acquire, combined with the resurgence in print sales and the decline in digital sales, convinced Waxman that more changes were needed. So in late 2015 he hired Jaime Levine as Diversionâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s publishing director, and Levine began a program to put out 50â&#x20AC;&#x201C;60 frontlist books annually in both print and digital formats. Waxman says the change in strategy yielded immediate dividends last year, with a doubling of print sales compared to 2015 offsetting a 30% decline in e-book sales.

Last year also saw the launch of two new divisions of Diversion: EverAfter Romance and Radius Book Group. EA is a print distribution service that offers bestselling indie authors the chance to reach more bookstores, Waxman explains. It works on a royalty-split model and requires authors to deliver ready-to-print book files and handle their own marketing.

According to Waxman, authors are joining EA due to â&#x20AC;&#x153;its flexible modelâ&#x20AC;&#x201D;authors can retain digital rightsâ&#x20AC;&#x201D;as well as the potential for significant bookstore distribution through IPS.â&#x20AC;?

EA distributed close to 500 titles in 2016 (both new and backlist books) and plans to release roughly the same number in 2017. It accounted for about 40% of Diversionâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s revenue last year, and Waxman is looking for a 50% increase in revenue in 2017.

Waxman describes RBG as a â&#x20AC;&#x153;high-end custom imprint serving entrepreneurial authors who want to self-publish by partnering with a top-tier publisher.â&#x20AC;? It offers full-service publishing but not Ă la carte services. He hired Mark Fretz in February as editorial director and is looking to increase sales in the unit more than 300% in 2017 over last year.

Haymarket Books is a nonprofit publisher of political and social justice titles that celebrated its 15th anniversary last year. In an October PW profile, marketing manager Jim Plank attributed Haymarketâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s recent success to its commitment to â&#x20AC;&#x153;putting out books that speak to the current moment.â&#x20AC;? These include one of its all-time top-sellers, 2014â&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Men Explain Things to Me by Rebecca Solnit.

Since the election of Donald Trump as president in November, Haymarketâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s sales have, Plank says, â&#x20AC;&#x153;shot through the stratosphere,â&#x20AC;? with such frontlist releases as Solnitâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s The Mother of All Questions, which has already sold almost 20,000 copies in paper since its March release. Solnitâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s earlier work, Hope in the Dark, which was originally published after the 2004 election, has sold 32,000 copies in paperback and 5,000 digital copies since November. (In addition, Haymarket gave away more than 31,000 Hope e-books as part of a promotion.)

The press finished 2016 with a 21% revenue increase over the previous year and a 67% gain compared to 2014. And Haymarket is off to a good start in 2017, with net revenue to date of almost $700,000.

41

MAY 6, 2017 ˾ THISDAY, THE SATURDAY NEWSPAPER

FASHION FILE

Tiskies- Ready to Wear

Collection-Chic

42

THISDAY, THE SAT A URDAY NEWSPA P PER Ëž MAY 6, 2017

By Azuka Ogujiuba g j azuka.ogujiuba@thisdaylive.com

FASHION FILE

Tiski Tiskieskies-- Ready Ready to o Wear Collection We Collection-- Chic C Chic Tiskies Global, a Nigerian g fashion & fabric manufactu uring g brand whose niche is the use of Ankara fabrics designed d g and p produced exclusively y by y the brand, for the brand in Nigeria; g in creating g contemporary p y and trend co onscious designs for the modern woman who loves fa ashion.

Tiskies unveils itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s ready y to wear lookbook calledCHIC. It is a collection of pieces C p designed g for the woman who loves colour, p w prints, style y and most importantly p y liikes to look chic. The collection appeals pp to various styles y a woman needs for work, social events and everyday look k.

S Shoot Credits Creative Direction & Styling: Rhoda Ebun @rtfcomC p pany P Photography: Kola Oshalusi @insigniamedia Makeup: Modupe M p Olusanya y @bukekayoo Hair: Esther Tom @game_of_fros H Models: Nikki Anyansi M y @nikkiandtees, Alexandra Nwokedi @alexnwokedi N

43

THISDAY, THE SATURDAY NEWSPAPER • MAY 6, 2017

WITH

MARKET PLACE

OMOLABAKE FASHOGBON 08033621009

L-R: Managing Director, FTI Consulting, Mr. Joel Kibazo; Co-head Emerging market, London Stock Exchange Group, Mr. Ibikun Adebayo; Partner, Pricewater Coopers (PwC), Mr. Andrei Ugarov; and Chief Executive Officer, Diamond Bank Plc, Mr. Uzoma Dozie, at the West Africa Launch of the London Stock Exchange Group’s “Companies to Inspire Africa” Report, held in Lagos...recently

L-R: General Manager, RB West Africa, Rahul Murgai; Representative, World Health Organisation, Dr. Rex Mpazanje; Minister of Health and Chairman, 2017 World Malaria Planning Committee, Prof. Isaac Adewole and Executive Secretary, PMGMAN, Dr. Obi Adigwe, at a ministerial press briefing co-sponsored by Reckitt Benckiser in commemoration of the 2017 World Malaria Day in Abuja,recently

Doubts Trail Proposed Relocation of $1trn Computer Village Stakeholders in the Computer Village market have expressed doubts over the planned relocation of the market from Ikeja, the capital of Lagos State, to Kantagwa market in Abule Egba.

This is coming as the Lagos State government recently revisited the issue with a promise to set to work soonest on it.

It will be recalled that talks on the movement of the market began under the administration of former governor of the state, Babatunde Fashola, with N500 million already mapped out for the project, which was not implemented.

However, the present administration has said that there was no going back on the project as plans were already afoot to convert the new site to a world-class ICT Park.

Some traders in the market however told Market Place that they don’t see the relocation project becoming realisable.

An impecable source who wouldn’t want his name in print said that some forces in the market who were not in support of the move had been obstructing the project through settlement and dialogue with government.

He said ”I don’t see it coming, let government be saying its own, that is how they will be saying it from now till tomorrow but l don’t want to assure you that it will be executed.

There are so many rich individuals in the market who have been pressing button to influence government decision to see that the plan does not see light.

“Can’t you see that since they have been

Suntrust Bank, ICD to Introduce Noninterest Product Nigeria’s first financial technology commercial bank, Suntrust Bank Nigeria Limited (SBN), has finalised deal with Islamic Corporation for the Development of the Private Sector, (ICD ) to woo customers with a non-interest banking product to be added to its array of offerings in the market.

The decision was reached just as ICD, which is a private arm of Islamic Development Bank Group (IDBG) and the fintech bank inked an agreement to establish a new non-interest banking window via SBN in Nigeria.

The Chief Executive Officer of ICD, Mr. Khaled Al-Aboodi noted that in line with ICD’s mandate to support economic development and promote the development of the private sector in its member countries by providing financial facilities and investments, the two institutions were determined to collaborate and facilitate information and expertise exchange in order to develop effective cooperation to implement the project and establish a window that incorporates non-interest banking products and services in Nigeria.

“We look forward to strengthening mutual efforts in establishing the non-interest window and move a step forward in achieving one of ICD’s main objectives to promote Islamic finance in our member countries”, he stated.

Chief Executive Officer of SBN, Mr. Muhammad Jibrin, added , “We realise the many benefits of our close collaboration. By establishing the new window, we will diversify our banking offer and will attract investors not only from Nigeria but also from the Islamic Development Bank Group member countries, and we consider ICD as our strategic partner in those countries.”

mentioning it, it has not gone beyond the announcement, this one that they are revisiting it again, I’m sure some people in the market will by now be planning to meet with the authority”.

When asked if he was ready to relocate, he said soberly, “let God’s will be done.

Anywhere they see, they should take us” However, when the Lagos State Commissioner for Physical Planning and Urban Development, Mr Wasiu Anifowoshe met with the representative of Computer and Allied Product Dealers of Nigeria, CAPDAN, on Thursday, he hinted that the planned project was for the future as there were no immediate considerations to move the market now.

Earlier, CAPDAN had expressed anger for

Coca-Cola Emerges Most Innovative Multinational Soft drinks giant, Coca-Cola Nigeria, has been declared the most innovative multinational company in Nigeria at the 2017 edition of BusinessDay Top 25 Most Innovative Companies and Institutions Awards.

The company was considered worthy of the honour as a result of its milestone achievement in pioneering the bottles-to-fibre recycling operation in the country.

The PET bottle initiative was delivered in 2005 in partnership with Alkem Nigeria Limited, where a PET bottles collection and buyback system was developed and expanded to several cities across the country and the recovered bottles are recycled into synthetic fibre which serves as valuable raw materials for the textile, furniture and bedding industries, among others.

Among other innovations that qualified Coca-Cola for the awards were its 5Alive Pulpy Orange, which was not just the first and only Nigerian made juice with pulp but produced in Nigeria’s first hot-fill line. Other were the inimitable Share-a-Coke marketing campaign and the more recent, the launch of ‘Taste the Feeling’ campaign in 2016 that was created on the Lagos lagoon.

Receiving the award,the firm’s Public Affairs and Com-

munications Director for West Africa, Clem Ugorji, expressed gratitude to the award organisers on the initiative.

According to him,the company had leveraged on the success of the recycling programme to lead the establishment of the Food and Beverage Recycling Alliance, a platform it was steering along with Nestle Waters, Nigerian Breweries and Seven-Up Bottling Company to promote industry collaboration and scale up the programme for national coverage.

The Publisher/Chief Executive Officer of BusinessDay Newspaper, Mr. Frank Aigbogun also commended the company including other award winning companies for their doggedness inspite of economic challenges while also adding values to the society.

He added that the awards team had taken pains to ensure that winners in various categories were selected through merit expressed by the observation of due care in all qualifying criteria.

Other companies nominated alongside Coca-Cola Nigeria in the Most Innovative Multinational Company Award category are Guinness Nigeria, LafargeHolcim and AJEAST. The event was attended by top organisations in Corporate Nigeria as well as top government dignitaries.

not being carried along in the relocation deal which it warned could be detrimental to the overall motive.

The National President of CAPDAN, Ahmed Ojikutu who was neither in support nor against the movement urged the state government not to exempt the body from the relocation process at any stage.

He said “if the government fail to carry us along, the expected impact of the exercise may not be felt.There are many shops in Allen Avenue which is full of activties. If the market eventually takes off in the new site without carrying our members along, most of the traders and engineers will secure a space in Allen Avenue and continue with their business, the implications of which the new site will be begging for attention.”

Skye Bank Woos Women Skye Bank Plc has stepped up its empowerment initiative for women with the launch of Webinar 2.0, for the Skye Pearl subscribers.

Webinar 2.0 is a programme that offers women real value as it takes into account the needs and concerns of women in their quest to actualise their potentials either as entrepreneurs, professionals or stay-at-home mums.

Group Head, Retail Banking, Skye Bank, Mr. Ndubuisi Osakwe, explained that the new programme was necessary following the success of webinar 1.0 which came before.

“The bank is committed to empowering women entrepreneurs across various sectors of the economy, that is why we offer knowledge and networking opportunities, market linkages and access to finance in ways that clearly reflect the attitudinal difference between men and women which are critical dependencies for business success.”

The programme held on Facebook Live with the speakers engaged the participants on the topic of discourse: ‘Technological adoption: The New Normal for Business Optimisation and Economic Growth.

Osakwe added that the initiative was targetted mainly at women who own small and medium enterprises (SMEs) seeking to leverage technology to scale and optimise their business.

“Skye Pearl Initiative is anchored on six pillars namely: capacity building, information, networking, empowerment, mentoring, and access to finance aimed at projecting Pearl Woman as someone who is “precious, informed, connected, evolving and a role model,” he said.

44

T H I S D AY, T H E S AT U R D AY N E W S PA P E R Ëž Í´Ë&#x153; Í°ÍŽÍŻÍľ

EVENTS

A

renowned technocrat, Dr. Oluwole Oluleye, gave out his daughter, Tinuola Adueze Oluleye, to U.S. based Joseph Nwagbo Okoye in a ceremony attended by creme de la creme of the society. The wedding ceremony was held at the Cathedral Church of Advent Life Camp with reception at the International Conference Center, all in Abuja. Here are the pictures of some of the personalities who graced the occasion.

Photosgrahs by Godwin Omoigui

L-R: Parents of the Bride, Dr. Oluwole Oluleye (l) and wife, Mrs.Patty Oluleye

The couple, Mr. Joseph Okoye and the wife, Mrs. Tinuola Okoye

L-R: Parents of the Bridegroom, Engr. Christian Okoye (l) and wife, Mrs. Anicia Okoye

L-R: Senator Adefemi Kila and wife, Funmi

L-R: Mrs. Busola Ladipo (l) and Ms. Temitope Oluleye

L-R: Sir. Onny Nwanna, Mrs Rose Nwanna and Chief Chris Enendu

L-R: Mr. Yemi Oluleye and wife, Mrs. Margret Oluleye

Alaaye of Efon , Oba Emmanuel Aladejare and Olori Roseline Aladejare

General (rtd) Tunde Oluleye (l) and wife, Mrs.Toun Oluleye

Dr. Hobson Nnebe (r) and wife, Mrs. Chinwe Nnebe

45

T H I S D AY, T H E S AT U R D AY N E W S PA P E R ˾ Í´Ë&#x153; Ͱͮͯ͵

EVENTS

L-R: Oby Igadan, Bissie Okoye,Comfort Nwankwo and Ogo Moore

L-R: Mr. Temidayo Oluleye and Lara Oyelakin

L-R: Chief Anyi Okoye, Deputy Governor of Anambra state, Chief Nkem Okeke and Chief Micky Okoye

L-R: Mr. Dayo Oyinsola and wife, Mrs. Yemi Oyinsola

L-R: Professor Tunde Adeniran, Oluwole Oluleye and Senator Femi Kila

L-R: Mrs. Ihuoma Kanu, Mrs. Uju Okoye and Mrs. Nneka Okoye

L-R: Mrs. May Mbu and Husband , Mr. Patrick Mbu

L-R: Engr. Kunle Mokuolu, Chairman of the occasion , Chief Charles Mbanefo and Wife , Irene Mbanefo

L-R: Mrs. Joy Okoro and Mr. Oduche Okoro

L-R: Sheye Ayileka, Namina Kamara and Lara Oyelakin

46

THISDAY, THE SATURDAY NEWSPAPER Ëž ÍžË&#x153; ͺ͸͚;

NEWSXTRA

In Brief Encomiums as MMA2 Turns 10

GreaterWashingtonExpress(GWX),akeyandleadinglogisticscompanyin Nigeria,hascongratulatedtheBoard,ManagementandStaďŹ&#x20AC;ofBi-Courtney Aviation Services Limited (BASL), operators of the Murtala Muhammed Airport Terminal Two Lagos (MMA2), for successfully managing of the facility in line with global best practice in the past 10 years. MMA2, operated under the Public-Private Partnership concession agreement between the Federal Government and BASL, a member of The Resort Group, is the ďŹ rst successful privately-funded Design, Build, Operate and Transfer (DBOT) airport terminal in Nigeria. It was inaugurated in 2007 by former President Olusegun Obasanjo. GWX Board and management in a statement congratulated Bi-Courtney for the successful pioneering of Public, Private Partnership (PPP) initiative in airport management in the country and setting the pace for airport and allied businesses growth in Nigeria. It also lauded the BASL management for consistently keeping the sprawling terminal in international standard since inception in 2007. â&#x20AC;&#x153;MMA2 is indeed a great success story of a pioneering PPP initiative in the aviation industry in Nigeria.

Cross River Postpones LG Elections

TOWARDS FOOD SECURITY...

L-R; Central Bank Governor, Mr. Godwin EmeďŹ ele; Senate President, Dr. Abubakar Bukola Saraki; and Kwara State Governor, Dr. Abdulfatah Ahmed and Peit Dutoit of Valentine Chicken during the Inspection of Tsonga Commercial Farming in Tsonga, Edu LGA....Friday

UNTH Carries Out 300 Open Heart Surgeries in 14 Years Christopher Isiguzo in Enugu

The University of Nigeria Teaching Hospital (UNTH), Enugu, says it has successfully carried out Open Heart Surgeries (OHS) on at least 300 persons since the recommencement of the programme in the hospital in March 2013.

Of the number, only three were completely carried out by the hospital's local team while the remaining were done by surgeons from the United States and the United Kingdom and facilitated by the Vincent Obioma Ohaju Memorial (VOOM), foundation, a non-governmental charity organisation based in the United States.

A Nigerian-born United Kingdom

based Paediatric Surgeon; Dr. Ikenna Omeje is the lead surgeon for the 15th session.

Also, Open Heart Pobic International, an Italian based non-governmental organisation (NGO) had signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) with the hospital to use its facilities for free open heart surgeries on children for the next five years.

The organisation, whose officials have arrived Enugu are expected to take off with their mission on May 8, adding that about 20 children with various cases of heart diseases would be attended to during the 14-day exercise.

This is coming as the hospital again raised the alarm that about

two per cent of the nationâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s population may be living with Surgically Amenable Conditions, and asked governments at all levels to earmark resources to arrest the situation before it degenerates to an alarming level.

Briefing newsmen at the hospital on the resumption of the 15th session of the programme from which a total of 20 patients including 10 children are expected to benefit, the UNTH Chief Medical Director, Dr. Christopher Amah, said already, three children had been operated on, while others were waiting for their turns.

He also disclosed that an additional 80 patients including 50 children and 30 adults were also

on the waiting lists.

Amah reiterated his earlier stance that the hospital would want to carry out at least 100 open heart surgeries annually if enabled by funding, noting that because of the huge financial involvement in carrying out the exercise coupled with the fact that most people with heart related diseases were poor, most people were yet to take advantage of the exercise in the hospital. â&#x20AC;&#x153;I can tell you that if we have improved funding, we can even handle 200 cases per annum and this will save this country huge sums of money that ordinarily would have left the country through capital flight,â&#x20AC;? he said.

UNICEF Donates N47m for Sokoto Rural Water Programme Mohammed Aminu in Sokoto

The United Nations Children's Fund(UNICEF), Friday said it had provided N47. 3 million to support the Rural Water Supply and Sanitation Programme in Sokoto State.

It also donated vehicle, computers and cameras to the State Rural Water Supply and Sanitation Agency(RUWASSA).

The Chief of Field Office, UNICEF Sokoto Zone, Mr. Mohammed Mohiuddin, made this known while handing over the materials to Governor Aminu Tambuwal at Usman Faruk Secretariat in Sokoto.

He stated that in addition,

UNICEF had provided technical assistance to the State Government on procurement, contract management, implementation and monitoring for the provision of water supply and sanitation infrastructure in rural areas.

Mohiuddin said the initiative was aimed at partnering with Government in accelerating access to water and sanitation for all people in the state, as it commenced the mission of achieving sustainable development goals (SDG-6) by 2030.

He posited that the UNICEF Sokoto Field Office had been working with RUWASSA for implementation of Community

Led Total Sanitation (CLTS) model in 122 communities to be certified as "Open Defecation Free (ODF) in Tangaza local government area of the state.

The Chief of Field Office also said UNICEF had supported the state to provide access to safe water in 30 communities of Tangaza local government area through rehabilitation of 44 water facilities.

"UNICEF developed a system for water safety planning, household water treatment and hygiene promotion aimed at improving health outcomes in Tangaza local government area.

"We therefore recommend that Sokoto State government can scale

up these model water supply and sanitation interventions to cover other local government areas of the state through state funding," he said.

He reaffirmed the commitment of the Agency to continue to support the state government in the areas of maternal and child health, nutrition, polio, basic education, social protection as well as water sanitation and hygiene programmes.

Responding, Governor Aminu Tambuwal, expressed gratitude to UNICEF for the gesture, promising that the vehicle and other materials would be utilised for the purpose it was meant for.

Michael Okpara University Moves to Sack 460 EmmanuelUgwuinUmuahia The fate of 460 workers of the Michael Okpara University of Agriculture, Umudike (MOUAU), Abia State now hangs in the balance as the management of the institution has set in motion the process of sacking them on the ground that the last administration employed them without following due process.

Already the university management has stopped payment of salaries of the affected workers and asked them to reapply to undergo fresh screening

in what is seen as a subtle way of offloading the workers. â&#x20AC;&#x153;There is bit of a mess that need to be sorted out,â&#x20AC;? the Public Relations officer of MOUAU, Mrs. Adanma Odefa said, adding that the problem was created by â&#x20AC;&#x153;the Professor Hillary Edeoga administration (which) hired over 460 people improperly without going the through the right procedure. â&#x20AC;&#x153;We have this 460 people who were given temporary appointment and the procedure usually is when a staff has a temporary appointment, it elapses automatically after one year if it is

not renewed.

The appointment of staff in question elapsed on February this yearâ&#x20AC;?.

However a staff of the institution who preferred not to be named, told THISDAY that â&#x20AC;&#x153;what we are witnessing now is the triumph of a section of the academic staff that are hell bent on rubbishing everything that Prof Edeoga did including the job opportunities he created for hundreds of peopleâ&#x20AC;?.

He said that a group of academic staff who were anti-Edeoga had been mounting pressure on the Vicechancellor, Professor Francis Otunta

to sack the affected workers in order â&#x20AC;&#x153;to save money to pay the lecturersâ&#x20AC;?.

The affected staff, who are dubbed â&#x20AC;&#x153;temporary workersâ&#x20AC;?, got to know about their uncertain fate following a circular dated April 28th 2017, signed by the University registrar, Dr. Azubuike C. Nwokocha.

In the circular the registrar stated: â&#x20AC;&#x153;Following the resolution at the family meeting held on the 27th April 2017, all staff on temporary appointment and whose appointment had lapsed are hereby requested to apply for renewal of temporary appointment.

TheCrossRiver StateIndependent ElectoralCommission(CROSIEC)has postponedthelocalgovernmentelectionsoriginallybilledforJune17,this year.TheCommissionstatedthattheelectionwasshiftedindeďŹ nitelydueto ongoingContinuousVotersRegistration(CVR),oftheIndependentNational Electoral Commission (INEC), from April 27 to July 25 this year. However, the commission did not announce a new date for the election which would haveledtotheemergenceof196councilors,and18localgovernmentcouncil chairmen. Thepostponementwasannouncedthroughapressstatement issued by the chairman of the Commission, Dr. Mike Ushie.The statement readinpart:â&#x20AC;&#x153;Thisbecamepertinentbecauseoftheconcernsraisedduring the Commissionâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s stakeholders meetings across the state on the fate of thosewhoattainedvotingageandareawaitingregistration.Asalawabiding andlisteningCommission,werealisedtheneedtoaccommodatealleligible votersforaparticipatory,free,fair,transparentandcrediblelocalgovernment elections in the state.The Commission has accordingly consulted with all political parties/stakeholders on the decision and call for understanding.

â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;Partner to Enhance Domestic Tourismâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;

DirectorGeneraloftheNigerianTourismDevelopmentCorporation(NTDC), Mr.FolorunshoCokerhasaskedallstakeholdersinthetourismindustryto worktogethertopromotedomestictourisminthecountry. Cokersaidthis while addressing members of the Federation ofTourism Associations of Nigeria(FTAN),ledbytheAssociationâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;sPresident,ChiefTomiAkingbogun, who paid him a courtesy visit at the Corporationâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s headquarters in Abuja, onWednesday. TheNTDCboss,saidtourismasagreatemployeroflabour, â&#x20AC;&#x153;Weneedtostartwithinourdomain,focusingonconsumptionofourassets, promotionanddevelopmentofdomestictourism,whichwillcreatemultiple eďŹ&#x20AC;ectonjobcreationandpovertyalleviationâ&#x20AC;?.Heemphasisedthat,â&#x20AC;&#x153;tourism identitywouldgoalongwaytoprojectthecountrypositivelybutďŹ rst,itmust beginwithus.â&#x20AC;?HestressedtheneedtopackageNigeriafortourists,within and outside the country, while describing music, entertainment, fashion, cuisinesandreligionaspartofgoodtourismassetsthecountryisendowed with, which will boost the Nigerian tourism industry.

Glo's Professor Johnbull on DomesticWorkers

ViewersoftheentertainingTVDramaSeries,ProfessorJohnbull,sponsored

by Globacom, were this week taken on an emotional voyage as the new episode drew attention to the indecent treatment of domestic workers.

In the new episode titled Life Jacket, Globacom said â&#x20AC;&#x153;the scenes in this episode drew the emotions of viewers as they beheld the inhuman treatment house maids and other domestic servants are subjected to. Most domestichandshaveturnedtothelifejacketsofthevarioushomeswhere theywork;doingvirtuallyeverythingandatthesametimenotbeingtreated well by their various masters. The implication of this is that often times, most of the gory news we read about the seeming wickedness of these domestic hands are self-inďŹ&#x201A;icted pains and injuries by those who should have treated the domestic hands as normal human beings that they are.

Life Jacket therefore, is a way of drawing attention to the plights of these endangered members of the community", Globacom reiterated.

Nnokwa Union Business Forum Holds Today

The Nnokwa Progressive Union, Lagos branch, will hold the second series ofitsbusinessforumtodayatthetownâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;sciviccentre,UnubiStreet,Ejigbo, Lagosbeginningfrom9:00am.AccordingtotheUnioninastatementbythe PublicitySecretaryoftheorganisingcommittee,Mr.VictorEze,thethemeof thebusinessforumisâ&#x20AC;&#x153;growingsmallandmediumsizedbusinessenterprise intodayâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;sNigeriaeconomy:Challenges,Opportunitiesandthewayforwardâ&#x20AC;?.

The Union said seminar papers will be presented by representatives of FidelityBank,FCMBandBankofIndustry(BOI),InvestmentandTrustLtd, amongothers.Itissaidtheeventisopentothepublic,asbusinessmenand womenfromwithinandoutsidethetownwerefreetoattend.Participants will have the opportunity to exhibit their products and services in a mini trade fair immediately after the seminar.

Polio: Ekiti Immunises .5m Children

No fewer than 579,540 children under the age of ďŹ ve were immunised against polio in Ekiti State during the First Round of the National immunisation Plus Days carried out recently. The Director of Primary Health in the Ekiti State Primary Health Care Development Agency, Dr. Joshua Ileke who made this known in Ado â&#x20AC;&#x201C;Ekiti, on Friday during a meeting of stakeholders in the State health sector, said the ďŹ gure represents 87 per centcoverageofthe667145childrentargeted inthe177wardsacrossthe state. He disclosed that Emure Local Government recorded the highest coverage in the state with 95 percent immunization coverage while Ekiti West recorded the least per cent coverage with 66 percent during the exercise.Commendingstakeholdersfortheirsupportinachievingthelevel ofsuccessoftheexercise,Ilekesolicitedgreatersupportandcooperation from school teachers, traditional rulers, religious and opinion leaders as wellasotherstakeholdersforthesecondroundoftheexercisescheduled to hold between May 6th and 9th this year.

THISDAY, THE SATURDAY NEWSPAPER Ëž ÍžË&#x153; ͺ͸͚;

47

Kogi Govt Threatens to Sack Striking Doctors over Unpaid Salaries Yekini Jimoh in Lokoja The Kogi State government on Friday threatened to sack any staff under the state health sector and adopt the policy of â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;no work no payâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; if they fail to resume work.

The threat which was contained in a circular signed by the state acting head of service Mrs. Hannah Lawal dated 4th May, 2017 indicated that the state government was doing whatever was needful to make sure that all salary arrears of cleared officers were paid within the shortest possible time without any further.

Recall that, the Kogi State

chapter of the Nigeria Medical Association (NMA) on April 3rd, directed its members to embark on an indefinite strike over governmentâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s failure to pay doctors salaries.

The circular with Reference number HCS/MISC/COR/01/ VOL.III/643 to the State Secretary National Association of residents Doctors reads in parts. â&#x20AC;&#x153;I have been directed to inform all the staff under the Kogi State health Sectors that, the State Government is doing whatever is needful to make sure that all salary arrears of cleared officers are paid within the shortest possible

time without any further delay. â&#x20AC;&#x153;It is equally noteworthy for every Union to know or realise that the best way to resolve any issue is through peaceful dialogue and not strike action. â&#x20AC;&#x153;In view of the foregoing, any Staff of Kogi State that decides to go on strike is hereby notified that he/she will have his/her job at stake. â&#x20AC;&#x153;The policy of â&#x20AC;&#x153;No work no payâ&#x20AC;? will be adopted for any worker that embarks on Strike Actionâ&#x20AC;?.

Meanwhile, barely 48 hours after the Kogi State chapter of the Nigeria Medical Association

directed its members to go on strike; health activities have been grounded in most hospitals owned by the Kogi State government across the state.

When our correspondent visited the Kogi State specialist hospital Lokoja, the ever busy male and female wards, Surgical ward, Labour ward, Children ward, Maternity Ward, Dental Ward and Eye clinic, Accident and Emergencies ward were empty.

It was discovered that, no doctor was on ground to attend to patients hence the need to discharge them for other private hospitals in the state.

UNDP to Spend US$4 million in 2017 on North East Michael Olugbode The United Nations Development Programme is spending US$4 million in the troubled Nigeria Northeast in the cause of 2017.

Speaking to journalists on Friday in Maiduguri, Joerg Kuehnel, the UNDP Regional Coordinator and Head of Maiduguri Sub-Office, said the donor agencies of the United Nations agency and it's contributing partners had budgeted over 4 million US dollars this year, 2017 to achieve its targeted programmes in the North-East.

Kuehnel lamented that the organisation had faced some challenges so far in actualising its objectives and meeting its targets in the troubled region.

He said some of the challenges included the understanding of the scope of the crisis in the Lake Chad Basin, problem of poverty of the populace affected by the insurgency, delay in recognising what really the Boko Haram crisis was on time and security challenges as most communities were inaccessible.

He said even at now most areas targeted and designed to be covered

were inaccessible and unsecured because Boko Haram insurgents were going into hiding despite the successes of the Nigerian military efforts and sacrifices in the fight against insurgency and terrorism in the troubled region.

He explained further that the continual explosions and attacks by the insurgents on soft targets also remained a great challenge due to the social, economic and political reasons, suggesting that economic opportunities to address the crisis and finding ways to design alternatives to handle the insurgency had become complicated.

Kuelnel said the issue of coordination of the humanitarian partners under the United Nations in linking them together for the intervention programmes had been a great challenge and also prioritising where interest should be targeted first to address the Boko Haram crisis was a great challenge to the UNDP. However, he said, with progress recorded, governments had invested and agreed on what to do, partnering with humanitarian partners to achieve a lot towards overcoming the Boko Haram crisis in the North East zone.

Police Barricade Entrance to Plateau PDP Secretariat Seriki AdinoyiinJos

PROMOTING TOURISM...

L-R: Mr. G.S Balogun, CEO Tarzan Boats Lagos, DG (NTDC), Folorunsho Coker and Chief Tomi Akingbogun at the corporation oďŹ&#x192;ce on the partnership between FTAN and NTDC towards promoting Domestic Tourism

World Economic Forum Obaseki Receives List Seeks Action on Africa of Political Nominees John Iworiwithagenciesreports The World Economic Forum (WEF) has called for action on key issues that will drive the African economy.

Participants at the forum which took place in Durban, South Africa yesterday stressed the need for Africa to move beyond theory and planning.

Pointing out that the â&#x20AC;&#x153;time for action has arrivedâ&#x20AC;?, they argued that the phrase â&#x20AC;&#x153;Africa Risingâ&#x20AC;? should be amended to â&#x20AC;&#x153;Africans Risingâ&#x20AC;? â&#x20AC;&#x201C; to reflect the enormous potential of the continentâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s human capital They argued that Africaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s first priority should be to embark on what they called â&#x20AC;&#x153;a path of sustained, sustainable and inclusive growthâ&#x20AC;?

The Deputy President of South Africa, Cyril M. Ramaphosa in his closing address at the WEF stated that the fundamental imperative for Africa was to pursue inclusive growth, which would transform it from the continent of potential to the continent of prosperity.

Ramaphosa called on the continentâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s leaders to think hard about â&#x20AC;&#x153;the type of Africa we are going to leave for future generations.â&#x20AC;?

His words: â&#x20AC;&#x153;Will it be a place of ashes or of half-baked solutions, or

will it be a product of leadersâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; best efforts to be responsive and responsible to their citizens? We must lead with respect and dignity. We are trustees and guardians of the continent for future generations.â&#x20AC;?

According to him, a comprehensive reform of the approach to education was one of the first calls to action.

Promotion of science and innovation must be central to learning, as must broadening access for all, but especially for girls and young women. And education cannot be the preserve of an emerging middle class, thus perpetuating inequality.

On his part, the Group Chief Executive Officer, Transnet, South Africa Siyabonga Gama noted that there was a real sense of urgency in Africa.

Gama suggested that governments should be run as if they were large corporates with constant monitoring of performance in hitting targets, bold decision making and the removal of impediments that slow down growth.

He argued that the priorities are to integrate Africaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s five economic zones into one giant economic marketplace. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Integral to this is a major drive to build infrastructure and powergeneration capacityâ&#x20AC;?, he added.

The Professor Dennis Agbonlahor-led screening committee on Political Appointments, on Friday, presented its report on the nomination of Special Advisers (SA) and Senior Special Assistants (SSA) to the Edo Governor, Mr Godwin Obaseki.

Presenting the report to the governor at the Edo State Government House in Benin, Agbonlahor, Chairman of the committee, described the screening process as innovative and democratically driven.

He said the committee had earlier submitted its report on the recommendations for the appointment for Commissioners to the governor three weeks ago.

Elucidating on the statistics of the nominees, he said: â&#x20AC;&#x153;We received 11 applications for the positions of Special Advisers, we recommended 6 nominees; two each from the three senatorial districts in the state. Out of the six, two are female; which represents 33% of the nominees. â&#x20AC;&#x153;We used the same criteria to screen the SSAs. We received 150 applications and after interview with the leaders of the various

Local government Councils and the applicants when necessary, we nominated 54 people.

Agbonlahor added that ten distinguished Edo sons and daughters found qualified to work with the present administration were also included in the report.

Receiving the report of the political nominees, the governor commended the committee members for adhering to the principles and criteria set up for the screening process.

Obaseki said that the screening process was necessary to allow people at the grassroots participate in the selection of political leaders.

He said â&#x20AC;&#x153;we must involve people at the grassroot level to participate in the process of nominating people they believe will represent their interest to work in government.

He also said the committee was set up to listen and review the compliant of those who felt they were left out of the political screening process.

He assured that before the end of the month, political nominees would be appointed in the state.

What would have resulted into a serious bloodbath was yesterday averted by the Police as it led other security operatives to barricade the Plateau state secretariat of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) occupied by the Senator Ahmed Makarfi faction of the party, thereby averting a clash between the faction and that of the Ali Modu Sheriff.

The security operatives comprising men of the Nigerian Police and the Nigeria Civil Defence Corps (NCDC) took over the secretariat as early as 7:00 am, preventing human and vehicular movement in and out of the of the premises along Yakubu Gowon way, Jos. It was gathered that the Police got a wind of an impending clash between the two factions as the Sheriff faction planned to forcefully take over the secretariat from the Makarfi group.

Meanwhile, the Makarfi faction,

which considered the move as illegal, mobilised members to the secretariat for a counter action.

On arrival, the state Chairman of the Makarfi-led faction, Honourable Damishi Sango, was allowed access into the secretariat with his supporters by the Police.

Sango, who exonerated Sheriff from the fracas, told his audience that those behind the move by the rival faction in the state were â&#x20AC;&#x153;the power that be in the state.â&#x20AC;?

He said, â&#x20AC;&#x153;There is no basis for any faction on the Plateau, a congress was conducted and winners emerged without any rancour. I want to believe that some people in the other party are the ones sponsoring this group; their intention is to get our secretariat sealed. And they are doing that because of the forthcoming local government elections; they are not prepared, but we are fully prepared, I want to advise them that sponsoring crisis in PDP will not give them victory.

Group Chides Ortom Over Suswams Arrest, Call for His Immediate Release GeorgeOkohin Makurdi A group under the aegis of PDP Strategic Reformation Group (PSRG) has accused the Benue State Governor Dr. Samuel Ortom of masterminding the continued detention of former governor of the state, Gabriel Suswam by officials of the Department of State Security Services DSSS even as it called for his immediate unconditional release.

Leader of the group and former member of the Benue State House of Assembly Honourable Kenneth Iyo, made this known during a press conference it held in Makurdi today.

He described as undemocratic and barbaric the continued detention. of Suswam for over two months without charging him to court over what he said was trumped- up charges saying, it negated the principle of fair hearing and rights of citizens as enshrined in the Nigerian constitution.

He said that the main reason for the desperation to have the immediate

governor incarcerated was target at clipping the wings of the PDP ahead of the local council elections in the state scheduled for June 3rd, 2017.

He said the PDP had in the past one year been growing owing to the abysmal style of governance been witnessed in the state under the Ortom led administration and hence the fear of it been rejected at the polls by the Benue electorates. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Recall that the former. governor of Benue state .Gabriel Suswam was arrested by the DSS February 25TH 2017 exactly 57 days today without being charged to court or released on bail, that is a government that is fighting corruption.

The continued detention of Suswam amounts to a violation of his fundamental human rights as stipulated in the constitution of the federal republic of Nigeria as various acts and articles of the African charter on human and peopleâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s rights and laws of the federal republic of Nigeria.

48

THISDAY, THE SATURDAY NEWSPAPER Ëž ÍžË&#x153; ͺ͸͚;

Ugwuanyi gets Most Studentfriendly Governor Award

BRAINSTORMING FOR EDUCATION...

L-R: Head, Meadow Hall Junior School, Miss Rita Ekpenyong; Executive Director, Academic AďŹ&#x20AC;airs, Meadow Hall Group, Mr.Ola Opesan; Former Minister of Education and former Vice President of the World Bank, Dr. Oby Ezekwesili; Executive Director, Business AďŹ&#x20AC;airs, Meadow Hall Group, Mr. Charles Imevbore; and Meadow Hall Foundation Board member, Mrs. Rae Onerhime at the Meadow Hall Foundationâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Education Convention held recently in Lagos

Osinbajoâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Visit to Delta State Quelled Unrest, Says Okowa Omololu Ogunmade in Abuja

Delta State Governor, Dr. Ifeanyi Okowa yesterday paid a thank you visit to Vice President Yemi Osinbajo in Abuja, saying Osinbajoâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s visit to the state in his days as acting president restored peace in Delta State.

Okowa, while answering questions from journalists after meeting the vice-president, also linked Osinbajo's peace moves in Niger-Delta to the passage of a bill authorising the establishment of Maritime University in Okerenkoko, Delta State by the Senate on Thursday.

He also hailed the commit-

tee constituted by the federal government to work out the modalities for the take-off of Maritime University in October, this year, describing it as a right step in the right direction.

"If you find out in the past few months, there has been peace in Delta State. So, I wanted to appreciate his (vicepresident) visit to Delta State because that definitely helped us in the peace process and just yesterday, the bill for the Maritime University, Okerenkoko, passed third reading at the Senate. That is definitely a very strong plus for us.

"We are also aware that a

committee has been set up led by the Minister of Education.

My deputy governor is part of the committee to work out the processes to enable the Maritime University take-off in October. It's a step in the right direction. So, I came to appreciate him and to discuss some other issues with him," Okowa said.

The governor also said he was aware that the Minister of State for Petroleum Resources, Dr. Ibe Kachikwu and the Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation (NNPC) were currently working out the process for the take-off of modular refineries in Niger

Delta.

"I think the process is being put in place. You realise that the President has talked a lot about it and I believe the Minister of State for Petroleum Resources and the Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation (NNPC) have been working in that direction.

You know it's not something that you can just bring up all in one day or in one month. "I believe that the processes are being put in place to ensure that we have some of them in some of our communities, in the creeks and in the Niger-Delta generally," he added.

Ohanaeze Ndigbo Warns Against Bank of Industry, NCAC Plan to Frame Ekweremadu Seal N300m MoU on Arts Bennett Oghifo and Emmanuel Ugwu inUmuahia The Enugu State Chapter of Ohanaeze Ndigbo has warned of dire consequences from it if the Presidency and the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) went ahead with their alleged plan to frame the deputy Senate President, Sen. Ike Ekweremadu.

This is as the Youth wing of the socio-cultural body has commenced sensitization for the Igbo to obtain voters registration cards and be ready for future elections.

The group, in a statement yesterday, signed by Chief Chiedozie Alex Ogbonnia, President Ohanaeze Ndigbo, Enugu State Chapter said, â&#x20AC;&#x153;Our attention has been drawn to the revelation by a patriotic Nigerian on the plot allegedly being hatched by the Presidency and the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) to frame up the Deputy President of the Senate, Senator Ike Ekweremadu with the intention of bringing him to public opprobrium and remove him from office. â&#x20AC;&#x153;The kernel of this revelation is a plot to plant huge amounts of foreign currencies and firearms in the residence of the Deputy Senate President and use that as guise to arrest and detain him. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Even when the EFCC has denied such plot, we

have reasons to believe that such plot is feasible going by the sequence of events that has taken place since June 2015.â&#x20AC;?

They said the denial by the EFCC notwithstanding, â&#x20AC;&#x153;we wish to warn, in the strongest terms possible, that the Enugu State Chapter of Ohanaeze Ndigbo will not sit idly by and watch our son being maligned; oppressed or ridiculed by the Presidency or the EFCC. In the event of this plot being put into action, the people of Enugu State will mobilise in their numbers to resist such barefaced blackmail. â&#x20AC;&#x153;We are not unmindful of the fact that this plot gained currency with Senator Ekweremaduâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s role in perfecting the bail conditions of Nnamdi Kanu, the leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPoB), who was granted bail recently with stringent conditions. â&#x20AC;&#x153;For the avoidance of doubt, Senator Ekweremadu did what he was supposed to do in the circumstance as a firm believer in the rule of law and justice.

May we reiterate our strong resolve to resist any plot against Ike Ekweremadu in the manner that has been revealed. A word is enough for the wise.â&#x20AC;?

The group said there had been previous attempts to bring the Deputy Senate President to disrepute, stating

From Olawale Ajimotokan and Senator Iroegbu in Abuja

The Bank of Industry (BOI) yesterday signed a Memorandum of Understanding with the National Council for Arts and Culture (NCAC) to promote the art industry in Nigeria.

The value of the partnership entered into between the Acting Managing Director of BOI, Waheed Olagunju and Director General NCAC, Otunba Olusegun Runsewe is put at N300 million. It will allow the bank to lend to arts entrepreneurs and stakeholders in the creative industry at a single digit rate over a medium and long term.

Minister of Information and Culture, Lai Mohammed, who was later presented with a copy of the MoU lauded the agreement, saying it would create 200,000 jobs in the sector and similarly serve as a catalyst for the development of the country's craft industries.

The Minister commended Runsewe for putting together ''this momentous event'' just a few days after assuming office as the NCAC DG, and also thanked Olagunju for his support for the Creative Industry.

Olagunju noted the partnership would add value to Nigeriaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s natural endowment, diversify the economy and achieve inclusive economic growth by using local contents and labour.

He stressed that officials of the bank would be on ground to ensure that the disbursed loans are well utilised, adding that the bank would partner with traditional rulers to support the arts industry by replicating the role played by the late King of Thailand, Bhumibol Adulyadej, whose support allowed arts to thrive in the South-east Asian country. â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;â&#x20AC;&#x2122;Some countries earn billions of dollars from the production of handcraft. For instance, Thailand earns between $4-5billlion annually from the export of handcraft. Through this agreement, we will link our entrepreneurs with foreign market and propel the handicraft industry in Nigeria to the level that has been attained internationally,â&#x20AC;&#x2122;â&#x20AC;&#x2122; Olagunju said.

Runsewe described that the partnership as a new dawn for the country in its bid to promote culture as the new oil and create jobs for a mass of unemployed people.

The National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS), Enugu State chapter, yesterday, honored Governor Ifeanyi Ugwuanyi as â&#x20AC;&#x153;the Most Student-friendly Governorâ&#x20AC;? in the country, in recognition of his humble disposition, visionary leadership and commitment to the welfare of the students in particular and youths in general.

The award was presented to the governor at the Enugu State Students Mentorship Summit tagged, â&#x20AC;&#x153;A Day with the Governorâ&#x20AC;?, which was organised by the state chapter of NANS to mentor the students and youths on sensitive issues bothering on their future and proffer sustainable ways of developing the society, through innovations, good behavior and entrepreneurship.

Counseling the students after receiving the award, Gov. Ugwuanyi, who was overwhelmed with emotions, tasked them to be law abiding, disciplined and respectful and to remain obedient to their respective school authorities and to other legitimate authorities in the society.

The governor also educated the

students on the need to participate in the ongoing voter-registration exercise to give them franchise in the forthcoming elections and equally advised them to â&#x20AC;&#x153;vigourously and vehemently resist any attempt by anyone to use you as thugs or agents of violence during elections because that is neither your purpose nor position in the societyâ&#x20AC;?.

The students through the stateâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s NANS Chairman, Comrade Chidi Ilogebe, noted that the maiden edition of the summit was historic, saying that its aims and objectives will go a long way to impact positively on the lives of the students and youths as pillars of the society as well as actualize the needed rapid reforms in this 21st century educational system.

Comrade Ilogede commended Gov. Ugwuanyi for the love he has for the students and his uncommon leadership style which has brought peace and development in the state, adding that â&#x20AC;&#x153;for the first time in history, the Enugu State Governor, dignitaries and heads of institutions will sit down in the same venue and discuss with students representatives/leaders on sensitive issues bothering themâ&#x20AC;?.

Anambra 2017: Group Shops for Obiano's Replacement Opposition to the second term bid of Governor of Anambra State, Chief Willie Obiano appeared to have begun to be gathering momentum within the Anambra North Senatorial district where the governor is from as prominent politicians from the senatorial district have begun to strategise on how to produce replacement for the governor from the zone.

The politicians who converged on the St. Andrew Youths Hall, Onitsha on Thursday, unanimously condemned the alleged under performance of the incumbent governor adding that the zone had more competent candidates who would do better when elected.

In the run up to the November Governorship election in the state, several politicians from across the other two senatorial zones of the state have signified intention to contest the election. The candidates cut across all the prominent parties including ruling All Progressive Party (APGA), All Progressives Party (APC) and Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) among others.

At the meeting which was chaired

by Chief Sylvanus Ohaemesi some of the aspirants eyeing the Awka Government House seized the opportunity to make public there governorship ambition. Among them were a former Secretary to the State Government, Ambassador Oseloka Obaze, Dr. Alex Obiogbolu, Chief Chike Obidigbo, Mazi Okechukwu Akaneme among others.

In his opening remarks, Chief Ohaemesi noted that the ANUF was formed in April 2016 and comprised of twenty concerned citizens from Anambra North senatorial zone who were worried over the imbalance in elections and governance in the state. He also commended a former governor of the state, Mr. Peter Obi ensuring that Anambra North Senatorial Zone got a short at the government house He also stated that the group had put in place the structure to ensure that the zone retain the governorship seat come November but with a different candidate order than the incumbent governor even as he added that he was aware of complaints of poor performance trailing the incumbent. â&#x20AC;&#x153;ANUF was founded in April 2016 based on equity and fairness and we

have put in place a structure that will ensure that Anambra Senatorial Zone is not booted out of power in November on account of poor performance by the incumbent. We believe the zone has several competent and capable politicians and should be allowed to field a different candidate to complete the second term of the two terms

THISDAY, THE SATURDAY NEWSPAPER • MAY 6, 2017

49 WITH

MARITIME BITS

JOHN IWORI

08057763164

L-R: Secretary General, Black Sea Memorandum of Understanding (MoU), Huseyin Yuce; Secretary General, Abuja MoU, Mfon Ekong Usoro; Secretary General, International Maritime Organization (IMO), Ki Tack Lim; Secretary General, Caribbean MoU, Jodi Munn-Barrow; and the Secretary General, Mediterranean MoU-------- at the third Joint Ministerial Conference of Paris and Tokyo MoU on Port State Control, Vancouver, Canada…recently

L-R: Managing Director, Port Notel Limited, Mr. Victor Akpanika explaining something of interest to the Director General, Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency (NIMASA), Dr. Dakuku Peterside at the third Association of African Heads of Maritime Administrations (AAMA) in Abuja...recently

Before FG Throw Another N34bn Into River Niger Dredging The dredging of River Niger, to say the least, has become a thorn in the flesh of Nigeria, nay Nigerians. This is not unconnected with the fact that huge amount of money running into several billions has been sunk into the dredging of River Niger project with little or nothing to show for it. In fact, successive administrations at the centre often see the dredging of River Niger as its cash cow.

For instance, former President Umaru Yar’adua spent not less than N34 billion on the same project during his tenure.

What did Nigeria, nay Nigerians gained from the N34 billion out of the N44 billion Yar’adua sunk into the dredging of the River Niger? Even the multibillion naira Onitsha River Port is in ruins several years after it was formally unveiled with pomp and pageantry. Yet the Federal Government wants to spend more money into what it called “maintenance dredging” of the

same river. If the former president can be excused for spending that huge sum of money into a project that has no timeline and definite date of completion at a time of boom, why should it put more money into what it called “maintenance dredging” in the wake of the recession in the economy.

The Federal Government revealed that it will save over N24 billion as it commences maintenance dredging of River Niger from Ajaokuta to Onitsha. The dredging exercise will cover a distance of 162 kilometres from Ajaokuta, Kogi State to Onitsha, Anambra State.

This was disclosed during the official flag off of the dredging exercise along Ajaokuta waterways channel. It expressed belief that the exercise which will be done by the Nigeria Inland Waterways Authority (NIWA) will not only boost trade in Kogi State but also its environs.

The Minister of Transportation, Right

Peterside: Why We Hosted AAMA The Director General of the Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency (NIMASA) Dr. Dakuku Peterside has given reasons why Nigeria hosted the Association of African Heads of Maritime Administrations (AAMA) in Abuja re3cently.

Peterside who is presently the Chairman of AAMA argued that for Nigeria to successfully diversify its economy there is need to advance the nation’s maritime interest, being a sector capable of taking over from oil as the country’s leading revenue earner in the nearest future.

The NIMASA helmsman who made this assertion at the 5th Nigeria Transport Awards and Lecture in Lagos, said that the benefits of the oil and gas sector and other vibrant economic impacting sectors cannot be reaped without shipping, as the sector provides the wheel upon which trade thrives.

This was evident at the just concluded hosting of the AAMA by NIMASA in conjunction with the International Maritime Organisation (IMO).

“Our hosting of the AAMA Conference is to ensure we become a leading voice in Africa’s maritime sector advancing Nigeria’s global maritime goals. We intend to coordinate the sector and make it devoid of piracy and other crimes at sea”, The DG said.

Peterside who was represented at the event by the agency’s Director of Administration and Human Resources, Mr. Akin Akinyosoye said that the maritime sector is of critical significance to the Nigerian economy, particularly, given that the nation is endowed with a vast coastline as well as navigable inland waterways adding that Nigeria is strategically placed on the Atlantic coast of West Africa.

His words: “Shipping is essential to the proper operation of any country’s economy and a vital part of a nation’s transport infrastructure, it is no gain saying that a Nation such as ours blessed with about 853km coastline and 200 nautical miles exclusive economic zone apart from the abundance of mineral resources that are domiciled in every nook and cranny of our country needs to be harnessed through shipping to create a positive economic impact”.

He stated that the agency was working assiduously to ensure that the country’s maritime domain is safe and secure for shipping activities, hence the Agency is leading the charge in coordinating other African Nations to tap into maritime opportunities across the continent.

Hon. Rotimi Amaechi who stated this at the ceremony said: “I was told that the last dredging exercise cost N44 billion and the federal government was only able to pay N34 billion. With the flag-off of this maintenance exercise that will be done by NIWA, the government will be saving that N34 billion. NIWA will use N10 billion and the remaining N24 billion will be channelled to other sectors of the economy like the construction of road from Abaaji to Lokoja.

The minister also ordered NIWA to include two items in the 2018 budget. These are the purchase of bigger dredger and allowance for staff of NIWA separate from their salary.

On the surface, the idea of embarking on the maintenance dredging of River Niger looks good. In fact, it is very attractive.

Contracts will not be awarded but the dredger of NIWA and its staff will be used to carry out the maintenance dredging of the River Niger in the months ahead. However,

Rector MAN Oron Counsels Staff The Acting Rector of the Maritime Academy of Nigeria (MAN), Oron, Akwa Ibom State, Mr. Mkpandiok Mkpandiok has counselled workers in the premier maritime training institution on the discharge of their statutory roles and responsibilities.

Mkpandiok charged them to adhere to set standards in the discharge of their functions, pointing out that this was the only way to project the academy as a centre of excellence in maritime training and education.

“Every employee must be an active participant in the actualisation of the academy’s restructuring effort”, he said.

Mkpandiok who stated this this during the academy’s one week quality assurance audit in Oron noted that his administration would do its best to restore the prestige as well as the glory of the academy.

He explained that the one-week exercise complied with the global maritime watchdog’s, International Maritime Organisation (IMO) requirement for Nigeria to remain on the White List.

While praising the Quality Assurance Audit Committee and the Department of Quality Control for the commitment, he said based on the special nature of training at the academy, the curriculum would be reviewed to incorporate those aspects that would aid compliance with the 2010 amendments to the Standards of Training, Certification and Watch-keeping Convention at the various levels of seafaring.

Mkpandiok called on directors of schools and heads of departments to work assiduously towards the

review of their curricula while appealing to the internal auditors not to fail in criticising constructively.

“We must adhere to standards when discharging our responsibilities and add value to make our cadets to be competitive in the global market,” he said.

The Head of Quality Control and Servicom, Mr. Thlawur Dunya commended the management and staff for their cooperation during the exercise just as he appealed to school directors and heads of departments to take note and act fast on any non-conformity observed in their schools or departments.

He stated that the IMO memberstate audit scheme was intended to provide a comprehensive and objective assessment of how effectively it administered and implemented those mandatory IMO instruments covered by the scheme.

The IMO audit became mandatory since January 1, 2016 to determine the extent to which all member states would give full effect to the obligations and responsibilities contained in a number of the IMO treaty instruments.

The mandatory IMO instruments included in the scope of the scheme cover Safety of Life at Sea (SOLAS 1974 and its 1988 Protocol); Prevention of Pollution from Ships; Standards of Training, Certification and Watch-keeping for seafarers (STCW 1978); Load Lines (LL 66 and 1988 Protocol); Tonnage Measurement of Ships (Tonnage 1969); and Regulations for Preventing Collisions at Sea (COLREG 1972).

Nigerians, especially critical stakeholders in the maritime industry and beyond need to put their eyes and ears on the ground before this become another wild goose chase.

If Nigerians did not care when Yar’adua spent N34 billion, they should care now that we are in recession. They should ask pertinent questions, otherwise Nigerians will be holding the short end of the stick.

For instance, it is really true that the Federal Government will save over N34 billion in the dredging of River Niger? What is the cost benefit analysis of the project? These NIWA staff that will be involved in the project will they be able to look at their superior in the face and insist that the right thing should be done? Against the backdrop of the civil service rules, will they be able to look at the Managing Director of NIWA, Mr. Boss Mustapha or Amaechi and take the right decision without the fear of being redeployed, transferred or sacked?

NPA Doles out Food Items to Host Communities The Nigerian Ports Authority (NPA) has doled out food items to its host communities in Rivers State.

The food items include bags of rice, bags of beans and gallons of groundnut oil.

It said the donation was part of the measures it has put in place to reach out to the people in its host communities.

The host communities are spread across three Local Government Areas of the oil and gas rich state.

They include Onne, Ogu and Eleme communities. They are the host communities to Onne Port Complex, Onne, Rivers State.

The authority said the donation of the food items were part of its corporate social responsibility (CSR).

A statement issued by the NPA, Onne Port Complex, Port Harcourt, Port Public Relations Manager, Mrs. Barbara Ejemeh Nchey-Achukwu said the food items were coming at a critical time when “Stomach Infrastructure Policy” in parts of the country is now gaining acceptance in view of the current economic recession in the country.

Handing over the food items to the paramount ruler and clan head, Onne, HRH King Dr. J.D Osaronu, the Port Manager, Onne Port, Alhassan Ismaila Abubakar said he was at the Palace of Onne Monarch, on behalf of the NPA Managing Director, Ms Hadiza Bala Usman to personally hand over the food items sent by her from Lagos.

“Your Royal Highness, my Managing Director sent me here to greet you. She appreciates you and the co-operation of your people (Onne) towards NPA in Onne and all the companies doing business at Onne Port area”, he said.

The Port Manager stated that the items were part of the way NPA management is using to show appreciation to its host communities, for the ongoing cordial relationship/ peaceful environment.

“The chief executive officer of Nigerian Ports Authority thanks you and the good people of Onne. She urges you to continue to maintain peace and solicits for women, men and youths of Onne to remain on the same peace – page’’, Abubakar added.

THISDAY, THE SATURDAY NEWSPAPER • MAY 6, 2017

50

PERSPECTIVE The Nigerian Senate: Performance, Even in Midst of Storm Olalekan Alabi

T

he Nigerian Legislature as an arm of government and particularly the institution of the Senate has always been a subject of major discuss within the Nigerian polity. Time and time again, the only news we hear about the upper legislative chamber is that of one indignity or the other which is apparently below what the legislative arm was originally designed for.

The main idea behind legislative functions in a democracy is to ensure quality laws and policy-making process, accountability and oversight through effective checks on executive absolutism in the exercise of governmental tasks and their sworn constitutional responsibilities.

The National Assembly has not been without its fair share of troubles. Historically, right from the inception of the Fourth Assembly, starting with the case of Evans Enwerem who was alleged of perjury and age falsification and who was eventually impeached by his colleagues to the days of Chuba Okadigbo, who was also impeached for gross misconduct and abuse of office and the later days of the leadership of Anyim Pius Anyim leading to the fourth Assembly alone parading 3 Senate presidents within a space of 4 years.

The Fifth Assembly between 2003 and 2007 had Adolphus Wabara as its initial Senate President resigning due to allegations of corruption and had the tenure completed by Ken Nnamani. The 6th and

Saraki

the 7th assemblies were in no way too different from the past ones, with David Mark, the Benue State born legislator leading the pack as the only man, till date to lead the Senate twice. Ordinarily one would have expected that the Senator David Mark - led tenure would achieve so much in terms of motions and bills because of the consistency of the leadership, but nay, it was the

story of one politicking over the other that remained predominant throughout course of the eight years. The current 8th National Assembly has naturally tolled the line of its predecessors in respect of different distractions, politicking and sundry issues as it has over ten members facing one probe or the other by the different anti - corruption agencies ranging from the Economic and

Financial Crimes Commission to the Code of Conduct Tribunal and even the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency. But one thing remains clear, the insistence of Dr. Abubakar Bukola Saraki, current chairman of the national assembly to withstand these distractions and forge ahead in the constitutional duties of representation, oversight and law making.

To a school of thought, the legislature remains the more important of all three organs of government as it is the laws made by the legislature that are interpreted and enforced by the judicial and executive arms respectively. The amendment and promulgation of salient bills such as the Railway Act, Electoral Act, Agricultural Credit Guarantee Scheme, Public Procurement Act, JAMB Act, Insurance Act, Whistle Blowers Act, Anti - Facial Mutilation Act as well as interventions on important matters such as on the REMITA TSA, MTN, ASUU et al are major pointers to this.

Though these distractions has made it impossible for many Nigerians to focus on the numerous motions, bills and policies directions which the legislature has spent time on towards affecting the lives of the common man positively and the focus of the 8th Senate on performance over petty politicking, the fact remains that the sincere intentions of Dr. Bukola Saraki in leading the legislative arm under this dispensation is visible and without doubt, history beyond 2019 will remember him quite well for this.

- Olalekan Alabi, a Public Affairs analyst writes from Ikeja, Lagos.

Paris Club Refund and Ugwuanyi’s Deserved Workers’ Award Louis Amoke

A

t the behest of President Muhammadu Buhari, the federal government announced the decision to release about N522.74 billion in the first tranche of the Paris Club refund to the 36 states of the federation to enable them meet pressing financial obligations such as the payment of salaries and pensions arrears, mixed reactions of excitement, doubt, suspense and speculation greeted the move.

When, thereafter, the refund was successfully released to states for disbursement in line with the purpose, it became a subject of controversy as accusations and counter accusations, denials/ clarifications over the sincerity of some states to properly manage the refund, rented the air.

For instance, it was reported that seven governors were under investigation by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) for allegedly diverting the funds. There were also a plethora of other allegations, denials and clarification especially from the Nigerian Governors Forum on alleged mismanagement of the Paris Club refund.

On the modalities for the funds’ disbursement, it was reported that the federal government, among other criteria, directed that a minimum of about 50 per cent of the funds should be devoted to the payment of salaries and pensions, in line with its plan to stimulate the economy vis-à-vis consumer demand.

In Enugu State, where Governor Ifeanyi Ugwuanyi holds sway, unlike in other states bogged with such controversies, he had prior to the accusations, mapped out strategies on how to transparently disburse the N3.9 billion allocated to the 17 local government areas of the state from

the Paris Club refund in the best interest of the beneficiaries.

Consequently, it is on record that the governor, immediately after receiving the fund, constituted a disbursement committee made up of all relevant stakeholders, such as representatives of the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC); National Union of Local Government Employees (NULGE); Association of Local Government of Nigeria (ALGON), state’s Ministry of Finance, state’s Local Government Pension Board and Local Government Service Commission, among others.

In further adherence to the principles of transparency and accountability, the governor also included representatives of the Independent Corrupt Practices and other Related Offences Commission (ICPC) and Directorate of State Services (DSS) in the committee.

It is pertinent to also note that although the federal government had requested that at least 50 per cent of the refund should be used for the payment of outstanding salaries and pensions, Gov. Ugwuanyi in deference to the plight of the Local Government workers and pensioners in the state were passing through owing to backlog of unpaid salaries and pensions, directed that 100 per cent of the fund be used for the payment of their arrears.

The governor, who was recently conferred with an award of “The Most Labour-friendly Governor in the History of Enugu State”, by the workers of the state, in recognition of his administration’s development strides and commitment to their welfare, despite the severe economic crisis in the country, did not stop at that.

He also directed that all payments be made through bank cheques, in the spirit of transparency and accountability, and equally requested for a full scale verification of the beneficiaries to avoid any form of manipulation or injustice.

The visibly blissful workers, who came out en masse to honuor Gov. Ugwuanyi at the 2017 May Day celebration, noted that the award was also in appreciation of the governor’s sustained harmonious industrial relationship with the state workforce, such as regular payment of salaries, pensions and other allowances on or before the 25th of every month, when many other states could not do so, and his administration’s prudent and transparent management of the Paris Club refund, especially the use of the fund to offset the arrears of LG workers’ salaries and some pensions arrears in the 17 councils of the state, among others.

They also appreciated the governor for always identifying with them, saying that “Governor Ugwuanyi is the only governor who has attended the May Day celebration consecutively since the inception of his administration.”

At the ceremony, which climaxed in a match past by all the unions, it is pertinent to appreciate the delightful experience of the workers, including the governor, who witnessed for the first time, the pensioners of the state participating in the exercise in a joyful mood.

On the Paris Club Refund’s disbursement chart, the committee agreed that the LG workers will get 75 per cent of the refund, representing full payment of their arrears, while the pensioners will get 25 per cent.

One is therefore, impressed to note that the commencement of the payment of arrears of LG workers’ salaries in Enugu State. The committee’s secretary, Hon. Innocent Eze was on hand to confirm that workers in Nsukka Local Government Area, which he noted, had the highest months of outstanding salaries in the 17 local government areas of the state, were the first to receive their 14 months salary arrears.

The first to applaud Ugwuanyi’s sense

of transparency, accountability, and magnanimity in the management of the Paris Club refund to the state, was the state leadership of National Union of Local Government Employees (NULGE).

The union, through its chairman, Comrade Kenneth Ugwueze had commended the governor for his wisdom and concern in approving the use of 100% of the refund for the settlement of all the outstanding salaries of Local Government workers in the State and some arrears of LG pensioners. The body described the governor’s decision as a true demonstration of his commitment to their welfare, adding that it had not only brought succor to them but also hope.

Recently, the Bishop of the Diocese of Enugu North (Anglican Communion), Ngwo, Enugu State, the Rt. Rev. Sosthenes Eze, while conferring on Gov. Ugwuanyi, an award of Transformational Leader of the Year for Infrastructural Development to commemorate the Diocese’s 100 years of preaching the gospel, noted that the governor had shown uncommon love to the less privileged through his administration’s grassroots development initiatives by extending massive development to the most-neglected areas in the rural communities.

He added that Ugwuanyi was developing grey areas where past governors did not develop, saying that “the governor has discovered the most-neglected areas of the state and has taken development to these areas”.

With all these, and many other narratives in mind, one is proud to state that Ugwuanyi’s passion for the people’s well-being is unbeatable and a reflection of his passionate disposition and uncommon leadership style, which confirms his stance that Enugu State, is in the hands of God. On this note, I wish the workers a happy May Day Celebration in arrears!

–Amoke, writes from Enugu State

51

THISDAY, THE SATURDAY NEWSPAPER • MAY 6, 2017

PERSPECTIVE AfDB, African Economies, Insights and Strategies for Development Arize Nwobu Acs

O

n May 22-26, 2017, the African Development Bank Group will hold its 17 Annual Meetings in Ahmedebad, India, with the central theme, ‘’Transforming Agriculture for Wealth Creation in Africa.’’ Earlier, in April, AfDB President, Dr Akinwunmi Adesina and his team went on a four-day official visit to India, ‘’to set the stage for improved cooperation between the development bank and India, as well as India’s relation with Africa in general’’. During the visit, the Dean of African Diplomatic Corps in India, Ambassador, Alen Tsesaye Woldemariam of the State of Eritrea, commended AfDB’s ‘’steadfast commitment for a better Africa’’, even as Adesina noted that ‘’India’s experiences are relevant to Africa’s development’’.

Between 2000-2010, noted as the ‘’Indian Decade’’, Africa’s economic relations with India recorded remarkable growth, with India as the dominant partner. By 2013, Africa accounted for 16 per cent of India’s Foreign Direct Investment (FDI), worth US$13.6billion, while Africa’s FDI to India was five times higher at US$65.4billion, representing 26 per cent of the country’s total inward FDI of which a large proportion, reportedly, came through Mauritius because of the double taxation avoidance agreement (DTA) signed between India and Mauritius.

AfDB, under Adesina, is focused on a five-point agenda christened ‘’5-Highs’’, namely, ‘’Light up and Power Africa’’, ‘’Feed Africa’’, ‘’Industrialize Africa’’, ‘’Integrate Africa’’ and ‘’Improve the Quality of life for the People’’. The ‘’5-Highs’’ are a build up on the existing AfDB’s ten years strategy (TYS)- (2013-2022), entitled, ‘’At the Centre of Africa’s Transformation’’, which focuses on achieving inclusive growth, transiting to green growth through five operational priorities- infrastructure development, regional economic integration, private sector development, governance and accountability and skills and technology, and with special emphasis on gender, fragile states and agriculture and food security.

Over five years to 2015, AfDB has deployed US$5.5billion in investments in the agriculture sector, with a portfolio of 6000 agriculture projects, to develop value chain infrastructure, and boost agriculture yield and productivity, introduced fertilizers technologies, new seeds varieties, built irrigation systems and roads, and invested in transportation corridors to link producers to urban markets, and reportedly, recorded 97 per cent rating on its agriculture projects, above average.

However, it has been observed by experts that the ‘’agriculture miracle’’ that has transformed other developing countries has not been experienced by Africa. Also, the continent has failed to industrialize in the twenty five years

Kemi Adeosun since the first African Industrialization Day. Reports show that, in 2010, sub-Sahara Africa’s average share of manufacturing value added in GDP was 10 per cent, unchanged from the 1970’s, and manufacturing output per person was about one third of the average for all developing countries while manufactured export per person is about 10 per cent, all of which contributed to over 42 per cent of the population living below the US1.25 poverty line and around one in four people in sub-Sahara Africa being unnourished.

The developments had prompted AfDB, the Brookings Institution and the United Nations University-World Institute for Development (UNN-WIDER) to come together to answer the question why there is so little industry in Africa.

The take off point to evolving solutions to the challenges of African economies is the realization that African economies remain largely factor-driven. The World Economic Forum’s Global Competitiveness Report divided countries into three stages, namely, 1, Factordriven economies, ‘’where countries compete on the basis of price as they buy and sell basic products, 2, Efficiency-driven economies, ‘’where growth is based on the development of more efficient production processes and increased product quality’’, 3, Innovationdriven economies, ‘’where companies compete by producing and developing new and different products and services by using the most sophisticated process.’’

Most developed economies are innovationdriven, while BRIC nations (Brazil, Russia, India and China) are efficiency-driven, though

China competitiveness is noted to be ahead of others and fast-driving to the innovation stage. Also, South Africa is fast driving towards maturity stage with world class infrastructure, a prerequisite for poverty reduction.

Factor-driven economies do not rule the world, thus African economies need to evolve essential and adaptive policy options and strategies to transit from being factor-driven to efficiency-driven. They need to embrace innovations across various facets, including their financing systems, entrepreneurial strategies, education, leadership, existing inimical cultures, and also embrace technology through strategic partnerships with developed economies.

As noted by Peter Howitt, ‘’economies that cease to transform themselves are destined to fall off the path of growth’’, and growth need to be inclusive and matched with development which entail increase in citizens quality of life, measured by literacy rates, poverty rates, environmental quality, life expectancy and freedom of expression.

The importance of the financial system cannot be overemphasized. It is the axle on which the wheel of economy revolves. A robust financial system correlates macro-economic stability needed to effectively power economic growth. African economies need an effective combination of development banking, vibrant capital markets and a net work of commodity exchanges to redefine their financing structures and catalyze faster and greater industrial growth and achieve sustainable development.

African economies need to re-invent their economies and evolve dominant market-based financing structures to catalyze industrial growth faster. The capital market is one of the most important factors of funding infrastructure with strong socio-economic impact.

As noted by the International Finance Corporation (IFC), the private arm of the World Bank, had noted that ‘’Africa cannot adequately address its enormous development financing needs with existing funding sources. The private sector through local capital markets can help bridge the financing gap.’’

At an International conference on the capital market, in Kigali, in 2015 Jingdong Hua, IFC Vice President and Treasurer, also noted that, ‘’vibrant capital markets are the foundations for accelerating and sustaining economic development of any economy’’.

The mechanism of the capital market optimally allocates capital, and catalyzes industrial growth faster and helps economies to achieve inclusive growth through greater job opportunities among other benefits. Research reports show that countries with more liquid stock markets enjoy faster growth rates of real per capita GDP over subsequent years as they increase economy wide mobility of productive resources.

The expansion of the capital market has been

a major factor for consistent growth in India; the Indian economy is characterized by its vibrant equity and debt markets. South Africa also has vibrant capital markets, and Malaysia was transformed after it implemented two capital market master plans which were launched by the Prime Minister.

Also, Africa needs a crop of entrepreneurs, like Aliko Dangote , Africa’s richest man , and such others, whose mind sets are conditioned to start local and think global, and who would later list their businesses on the stock exchange to access a large pool of long term capital with flexible funding options, and imbibe culture of best practices towards building African conglomerates or multinationals, and facilitate the spread of national wealth through public share ownerships. Most of the best businesses in developed economies are listed on their stock exchanges.

For the transformation of the agriculture industry in Africa, the role of commodity exchanges is central. Commodity exchanges are very important to economic development; they boost farming by stimulating demand for produces, and increases survival and prosperity among farmers, serve as the wheel of commerce and economic development and makes economies more efficient. It has been reported that advanced economies would not have been where they are in the past 100 years without commodity exchanges.

As noted by, John Page, Senior Fellow, Global Economy Development, ‘’there is need for market improving solutions, Africa need to develop a network of viable privately-owned commodity exchanges as has been effectively used in Brazil, US, Chile, Argentina’’. South Africa is also operating successful commodity exchanges.

Besides transforming their financing mechanisms, African economies need other such innovations in their leaderships and elite culture, which demands value re-orientation, and creative destruction of technological innovations and functional education. The values cherished by most leadership in Africa are highly materialistic and uninspiring, and the elites tend to organize their societies for their benefits, all of which contribute to widen the gap between the rich and the poor and reinforce the culture and vicious cycle of poverty.

As the AfDB Group, one of the prides of Africa, prepares to convene for its 17 Annual Meetings in Ahmedebad, India, with a focus on Agriculture development in Africa, these and other such critical factors that can spur growth and sustainable development in Africa may also be considered as part of their deliberations for the greater benefit of Africa.

–Arize Nwobu Acs, is, Assistant Director/ Head, Research and Technical, Chartered Institute of Stockbrokers, Lagos. He wrote via arizenwobu@yahhoo.com Tel 08033021230

Garlands for Lalong on Plateau Peace Building Yakubu Dati

A

ccording to the popular former American President, John Kennedy, “ Peace is a daily, a weekly, a monthly process, gradually changing opinions, slowly eroding old barriers, quietly building new structures “ Governor Simon Bako Lalong of Plateau State appears to be translating this sage saying into reality. Little by little, he is building structures towards sustainable peace. From the regular payments of emoluments to civil servants, to the injection of 24,000 metric tons fertiliser to farmers at subsidised rates, and the establishment of two zonal police commands in Bukuru and Pankshin, the underlying message is one – peace building.

The just concluded maiden Joscarnival made a strong statement on the return of peace on the plateau. In more peaceful climes, very few public officers can take a walk round their immediate constituency without fear of the unknown. Lalong alongside his quiet and caring wife, Regina walked eight kilometers in the heart of Jos to grace the carnival. Apart from the physical fitness so apparent from

this exercise, a bold message of return of peace reverberated through the land. As he waved back at residents from rooftops and windows, it was clear that he is the man of the people.

Peace has indeed returned While labor unions in other climes are in the trenches embarking on aluta continua for workers’ salaries, Lalong’s Plateau has become the darling of comrades. Recently, he was presented with an award for payment of workers and pensioners by Ibrahim Khaleel, National President of local government unions (NULGE). Shortly after, The Nigerian Union of Pensioners (NUP) also shortlisted Gov. Lalong for award at its 10th quadrennial conference. According to its spokesman, Comrade Bunmi Ogunkolade, he is among the six out of the 36 governors and who do not owe pensioners in their states. For Trade Unions known for bringing states to standstill, such commendations are not “based on logistics”.

The return of peace is manifest from the influx of people into the State. Jos is not only regaining its lost glory as land of peace and tourism, but is becoming a favorite destination for conferences and retreats. In the past

few weeks for instance, Jos played host to 3,000 participants for a weeklong event organised by the Association of National Accountants of Nigeria (ANAN). Similarly about 200 children were at the Rayfield Golf Club to participate in a weeklong Children’s Golf tournament. Furthermore the state is still savoring the weeklong retreat by Sokoto State led by Governor Aminu Tambuwal, Sultan of Sokoto, members of the State Executive council, boards and parastatals. These guests, their drivers, their friends and their cars require upkeep. Hoteliers, taxis and food vendors are smiling to the bank. As the visitor’s needs for shelter, food, leisure and recreation are catered for; the city’s informal sector is brimming with activities. The petrol stations, fruit vendors, mai suyas, are all scrambling for a piece of the action.

The upsurge of human traffic and patronage is stretching the capacity of the 120 hotels in Jos to its limits. Little wonder, more hotels are springing up every day as vehicular traffic has replaced the former ghost town.

The attraction to the city as a result of the peace, alongside timely payments of salaries has culminated into a boisterous local economy. These economic activities generate

employment opportunities for the teeming youths. Those with entrepreneurial skills also find expression from the multiple business opportunities so provided. Most observers attribute the peace being enjoyed in Jos to the engagement of youthful energies into profitable enterprise. When the youths are engaged therefore, it diminishes their attraction to criminality and deviant behavior.

To many observers, the superlative performance of the Plateau United football club on top of the table of the Nigeria Professional Football League (NPFL) is not by accident.

The peace at home has provided a great tonic for the boys to do exploits on the field of play.

As a sportsman himself, Gov. Lalong knows how it works.

The rousing reception received by Efe, winner of Big BrotherNaija, by the Government and people of Plateau has redefined the state as home of peace and tourism.

As Gov. Simon Lalong marks another birthday, his vision of making Plateau a haven for peace, tourism and hospitality is being achieved one step at a time.

–Yakubu Dati, was a former Commissioner in Plateau can be reached on yakubudati@gmail. com

52

THISDAY, THE SATURDAY NEWSPAPER • MAY 6, 2017

POLITY

Alaibe’s Panacea for Peace in the Niger Delta James Etokakpan

T

he Niger Delta region is arguably the most crisis-prone area in the country, second, perhaps, to the North East region that has in the past six years or so been devastated by insurgency perpetrated by Boko Haram terrorists. But while insurgency in the North East is a recent phenomenon, the crisis in the Niger Delta dates back decades, though assuming alarming proportions in the last 13 years, with the introduction of armed militancy.

The consequences of insurgency have been largely in form of destruction of lives and displacement of persons, with the term, internally displaced persons (IDPs), featuring more prominently in our national vocabulary now than before. There has been destruction of infrastructure and the environment, too. But these consequences have been confined mostly to one part of the country, with little or no impact on the rest of the country, economically and politically, except for the social problem of having IDPs migrate outside the region to areas as far as Abuja and Edo State.

The past crisis in the Niger Delta has had negative consequences on the economic life of a country that depends solely on the oil that is derived from the region. That is why, as the rather sarcastic joke goes, when the Niger Delta sneezes, the entire country catches cold.

The country has had several bouts of cold from the activities of militants in form of destruction of oil facilities and installations, which reflected in drastic cut in oil production and export and, consequently, low income from oil exports. The economic loss came to a record low last year when the price of oil in the international market plummeted to about $35 a barrel. And the country, with daily production capacity of 2.6 million barrels, found itself struggling to produce up to one million barrels, with estimated loss of up to 60

Alaibe per cent revenue to the activities of militants, during the period.

It is against this background that we must all welcome the peace that has reigned thus far in the Niger Delta for the greater part of the first quarter of this year and till date. The immediate benefits of this peace to the nation could be seen in the uninterrupted production activities that have gone on in the region, with the country meeting its daily production target of over two million barrels per day.

And, thanks to the relatively better oil price that has remained above $45 per barrel in the international market, the country is realizing more revenue from the commodity than it did for the greater part of 2016. This is evident in the increase in federal allocations to the three tiers of government in recent times.

The economic benefits that accrue from the current peace in the Niger Delta region is a pointer to what the country can achieve from

a sustained and permanent atmosphere of peace, if efforts are geared towards that goal.

There is every reason to believe that the current peace in the region can be permanent.

TImi Alaibe, a former managing director of the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC), was widely reported recently as having given some tips in a television interview on how the current peace in the Niger Delta can be sustained. There is, perhaps, no Nigerian better placed than Alaibe to suggest the panacea to the problems that have beset the region for over five decades, which have defied all the interventionist programmes of successive governments. In his position as chief executive officer of NDDC, he designed the Niger Delta Development Master Plan that was meant to serve as the blueprint for the systematic and sustained development of the region.

The Master Plan, hopefully the document that provides answers to the challenge of achieving lasting peace in the region, was launched by the administration of Olusegun Obasanjo. It has since remained locked up in some cupboard in Aso Rock, where it is predictably gathering cobwebs. The Buhari administration does not require another ceremony of re-launching it. The administration can begin implementation of the document without much ado. The aim would be to capitalize on the current peace in the Niger Delta by winning the hearts of the people of the region with initiatives that would ensure the peace does not snap at some point in the future.

Among the suggestions Alaibe made in the Master Plan is the involvement of oil communities in the protection of oil assets and installations and, most importantly, inclusion of the communities in the sharing of oil proceeds. This would give them part ownership of oil facilities with a greater sense of responsibility for their security.

Alaibe believes apart from involving oil communities in the protection of assets and

sharing of oil proceeds, the government’s plan to convert illegal refineries that dot the region into modular refineries would not only open more revenue streams for the government, but would also create jobs for unemployed youths in the region who see militancy as the only means of survival. He achieved the feat of disarming, demobilizing and rehabilitating about 26, 000 militants under the Amnesty Programme of the late president Umar Musa Yar’Adua, as his special adviser on the programme. He therefore knows what he is talking about.

An idle man’s brain is the devil’s workshop. Any programme that would put jobs in the hands of jobless youths of the Niger Delta – whether modular refineries or an amnesty programme that would get them established in various vocations – would solve the problem of militancy in the region by half.

The current recession brought about by the country’s dwindling fortunes from over-reliance on oil has necessitated a shift of focus to other areas such as agriculture and solid minerals. With stability in the Niger Delta, uninterrupted production and export of oil, and the corresponding increase in monthly allocations from sustained revenue, there would be enough resources available to the federal government to develop those two critical sectors, which are capable of generating equal amount of revenue as oil, if not more, especially with the interest shown in those areas by local and foreign investors.

Perhaps now is the time for the country to achieve what it failed to achieve when it jettisoned agriculture as its main foreign exchange earner at the discovery of oil. Now is the time to achieve diversification of the revenue base, which has remained a mirage for successive governments. The journey to achieving that must begin with sustained efforts at ensuring the current peace in the Niger Delta remains unbroken.

–Etokakpan writes from Uyo

Goualin: We’re Out to Expose Anomalies in Our Politics

G

the Republican Party. His name is Senator Rubbio. He is a bit mature. Then, in the Democratic Party, Sanders is a great senator.

He contested against Clinton. The man has something upstairs. I want to see a Nigeria whereby we would see our candidates from both parties participating in debates. We are no longer interested in candidates coming forward and thinking that they can hijack the seat of our nation’s leadership like our presidency. Of course, yes, our presidency is not for sale. And that is what La Lumiere is all about. We want to shine the light. Light in French means ‘Lumiere’. We are shining the light on these areas for the common man to understand.

eorge Goualin, a former senatorial aspirant for Lagos Central district on the platform of Peoples Democratic Party and co-convener of La Lumiere, a non-governmental organisation, was a chieftain of the defunct Action Congress. In this interview with FEMI OGBONNIKAN, Goualin examines some fundamental geopolitical issues in the country. Excerpts: How did you come about the organisation, La Lumiere?

Who told you about La Lumiere? And how did you get that information? It means you have your ears to the ground. Interesting!

La Lumiere is an organisation that aims at enlightening the average Nigerian voters. We want to enlighten the electorate, not a situation when you have some group of people and they say, this is the person we are voting for and they want people to go along that way, without even knowing why they are voting for him. We want to cancel that. We want to make the people know why their votes are valuable and count, and mostly how significant it is in the process of choosing the president for the nation. It is a very important process that we must not allow to fail. Look at what happened in America, Trump and Clinton. Trump is now in school, trying to understand what international diplomacy is all about. He is in school now trying to understand that the senate is very powerful. So, he is now trying to negotiate with the senate in order to pass some bills into law. He never knew that before and he was fighting with everybody in the Republican Party. But now he has to calm down because they are going to show him where the power is. This is the thing they are facing. We must grow in Nigeria. We want a true change, true proactive change that will bring about real development. We are the big hope of Africa, the largest black nation in the world.

La Lumiere is an organisation that is proNigeria, a nationalist organisation that wants to see this country prosper and grow. We are not biased and we don’t have anybody in mind that we love that we are supporting. But we are supporting our motherland. She has given a

Goualin lot to us. If you read through our brochure you would see what we mean.

Now that the 2019 general elections timetable has been released by INEC, how do you think the selection criteria for the presidential election should be?

First of all, intra-party democracy has to improve. With my colleagues we have analysed these things together and have come to understand that people have been imposed by the aristocratic class upon us. The common man does not have a right to participate in the primary process of choosing his own leader; even names of delegates are written by political parties when they are not elected. So, the common man is being disenfranchised. At the primary level of party politics, we don’t even get the opportunity to see these aspirants debate among themselves. We want to see what they have on their heads or the intelligence that they have. We just want to know.

We saw the American presidential primary and it was very hot. There is a young man that I even liked so much the way he talked in

How would you assess the influence of money in the country’s politics?

With the presence of the social media and growth of intelligence among our people, especially the youth, money will start losing its value. That is why we are going to act as checks and balances. We know that there is going to be a lot of money to be used but we are going to be saying the truth. We will dig for information far back into so many years and we would tell people about who the candidate is. People would find about you and we would say the fact. We are not going to fight anybody but we are going to say the truth for our people in this nation to know and know who really to vote for. If you have done well in the past we would say the truth about you, that you have done well.

In the case of Nigeria of today, whether you like it or not the North still has another term of four years to spend.

Please, can you expatiate on this?

Ok, would you agree with me that it is possible that the present president may not get a second term? The northern politicians may want to bring another candidate from another party who would probably win and get an eight-year advantage. And if they do that, it is not anybody’s fault. The election of president is usually for eight years period and if they win the second term election, probably they may be there for the four years of the former president plus eight years of a

new president and everything will boil down to 12 years.

Which geopolitical zone in the North do you think should produce the next president?

I can give you an idea, based on my political understanding. Cash is not going to play any role in 2019 because there is going to be checks and balances system coming like educational enlightenment to the average voter, because it is the common man that is suffering right now. He is the one buying a bag of rice at the rate of N18, 000. The common man is now buying a litre of kerosene for N243. We know what is happening within the society. The common man is looking for a messiah right now. He is looking for somebody that would come and make these things cheaper and easily affordable and available. We are not interested whether you are from the North or South but because of the political demography that we have, the northerners would not want let the power to go yet, and I don’t know if I am correct. So, in considering your question, I am thinking that the North-east has a better chance producing the next president.

Why North-east?

I think the reasons are these. The North-east has not produced anybody since 1963. The last time they came close to the presidential position was Tafawa Balewa. The last time they had another person was the vice president and that was Atiku Abubakar who is from Adamawa State. And he is the Turaki of Adamawa. But if you look at the North-west, they have produced many presidents, like Umaru Yar’Adua, General Muritala Mohammed. Alhaji Shehu Shagari, General Muhammadu Buhari (twice), General Sani Abacha.

But while the North-west has produced a lot, the North-east has suffered, from Maitasine and, presently, Boko Haram, and they have been the black sheep of our national family.

They have suffered a lot of destructions. They have been like a rejected stone, the pariah of the North. But the thing that is so funny is that the North-east and the south-eastern blocs are having problems and I don’t know why the eastern blocs of our nation are having this problem.

53

THISDAY, THE SATURDAY NEWSPAPER • MAY 6, 2017

TOURISM

Rivers State: Nigeria’s Tourism, Investment Destination provides a platform for profitable crop and fish farming for local and international investors to exploit. ndowed by nature as the naThe tourism industry has been robustly tion’s treasure base, Rivers State nurtured to attract other Nigerians and is blessed with vast deposits foreigners to the state. Beach resorts, of oil and gas, two functional the New Port Harcourt Pleasure Park, seaports, an international airan international airport, two seaports, port, revived rail network, vast good network of roads and railway line, arable land, enhanced security network tourists have found Rivers State attracand business-friendly environment. Rivers tive. Governor Wike, since assuming the State is Nigeria’s undisputed tourism and leadership of the state, has created an investment destination. atmosphere that promotes tourism.

The security framework in the state Electricity supply in the industrial has been deliberately developed by the regions of the state has been marvelous as Governor Nyesom Wike’s administraa result of the presence of Gas Turbines at tion to ensure the growth of the oil and Afam and Omoku. The power situation gas industry. Massive international and has been made more attractive by investindigenous investments in this sector ments of Governor Wike in the indepenhave made Rivers State the headquarters dent electrification of key public facilities of oil and gas in the country. in the state, just to free up generated The access to extensive arable land, electricity for business purposes. water resources, and two of the largest Business concerns interested in investfertilizer production plants in the couning in other mineral resources will find try, backed by an agricultural policy that out that Rivers State is a destination of favours public private partnership model choice. It has several solid minerals in for commercial agriculture, Rivers State commercial quantity.

Access to quality healthcare in Rivers State is guaranteed. From tertiary Medicare to primary healthcare, investors are assured of access to high class medical professionals and facilities. The Braithwaite Specialist Memorial Hospital, Port Harcourt has been upgraded by the Wike administration, while the University of Port Harcourt Teaching Hospital and hospitals owned by international oil and gas companies are open to those in need of quality healthcare services.

In Nigeria, Port Harcourt is the home of decent, classy hotels. Visitors troop into the city on a daily basis, just to enjoy the warmth, hospitality and friendship of Rivers people. Recent high-profile developments by the Wike administration have strengthened Rivers State’s position as a national hub for hospitality.

Connection into Rivers State is the easiest in the country. It boasts of all forms of transportation; air, road, railway and marine transportation. The international airport, two seaports and the railway have created avenues in and out of the state.

Port Harcourt

Port Harcourt looking good

Simeon Nwakaudu

E

This is a fertile land for manufacturing.

The Trans-Amadi Industrial Layout has been upgraded by the Wike administration to attract local and international investors to the state. Investors are trooping into the state to take advantage of the business-friendly climate.

Return on investments in Rivers State is the best in the country. Investors have access to ready-made local and international markets to sell their products while the Wike administration has strengthened the security architecture and offered tax reliefs/holidays to woo new investors to the state.

If you are yet to be in Rivers State for your lifetime investments, you are missing out on the best opportunity. Rivers State at 50, is being led by a Golden Governor who has Midas touch. With the transformation on ground by Governor Nyesom Ezenwo Wike, investors will enjoy an era of financial bliss for choosing Rivers State. Make that wise choice today.

This is a new Rivers State, Nigeria’s outstanding centre of profitable investment.

PHOTO NEWS

L-R: CEO, Renaissance Capital Nigeria, Temi Popoola; MD/CEO, Financial Derivatives Company Limited, Bismarck Rewane; Divisional Head, Market Development and Regulation, FMDQ OTC Securities Exchange Jumoke Olaniyan; and GMD/CEO, Access Bank Plc, Herbert Wigwe, at the Access Bank Plc 2017 FX seminar in Lagos...recently

L-R: Chief Digital Officer, Alat, Mr. Dele Adeyinka; Chairman Board of Directors, Wema Bank Plc, Mr. Yinka Asekun; MD/CEO, Wema Bank Plc, Mr. Segun Oloketuyi, and Deputy Managing Director of the Bank, Mr. Demola Adebise, at the launch of Wema-Alat Digital Bank at Victoria Island, Lagos...recently

L-R: Secretary to the first biennial congress of Arch Cathedral, Mr. Dele Vincent; Provost, the African Church Arch Cathedral Bethel, Ven. Adebayo Ologun; Primate, Most Rev. (Dr.) Emmanuel Udofia; his wife, Evang. Ene and the People’s Warden, Col. Akinsola Aboyade-Cole (rtd), during the opening ceremony of the first biennial congress of the African Church , Arch Cathedral Bethel in Lagos...recently PHOTO: KOLAWOLE ALLI

L-R: Head, Communications/Digital Media, Naija Malls, Mr. Paul Ezendoli; Director, Mrs. Toyin Oghoetuoma; Chief Operation Officer(COO), Mrs. Veronca Ajiboye; and Head Strategist, M & Countrymen Communications, Mr. Ayokunle Idowu, during the launch of a brand new e-commerce: NaijaMalls in Lagos...recently PHOTO: Yomi Akinyele

54

THISDAY, THE SATURDAY NEWSPAPER Ëž Íž, 2017

PEOPLE

Esther Ijewere-Kalejaiye

Many People Donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t Like My Openness about Rape Esther Ijewere-Kalejaiye, the Olabisi Onabanjo University-trained sociologist, came to the limelight when her foundation, WAR, an acronym for Walk Against Rape, organised a walk against abuse and rape of women.

It became an annual event that sees women and men from all spheres of life walking for miles to denounce rape in the society. Her NGO is an advocacy initiative created to lend a voice for the victims of rape and demand justice against perpetrators. It is endorsed by the Lagos State Ministry of Women AďŹ&#x20AC;airs and Poverty Alleviation. She speaks with Azuka Ogujiuba about her projects

T

ell us about your childhood?

I grew up with a single mum of three. Independence and giving are some of the dynamics that my mother taught us. She made me realise the power of giving from an early age. We have a strong belief that you should always support people no matter what, with what you have. My mother taught us to give to people as much as you could and show support to people. I influence the world with my giving spirit and my affinity for change. Iâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;m also influencing the world through some of my projects like Women of Rubies. I fight against rape and stigmatisation that comes from being raped through my orgaisation. I also empower women through the Women of Rubies Initiative.

Is there a story behind your passion for children with respect to rape and abuse of any kind?

My passion for humanity and my inability to withstand any form of injustice or violence against women inspired the initiative. So far, itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s been a worthwhile journey. I love when everyone is given a chance to be heard in the society What inspired you to start Rubies Ink Initiative?

The inspiration behind the creation of Rubies Ink is to lend a voice to voiceless women and girls in the society by adding value to their lives. There are so many deserving women and young girls seeking for opportunities. Our vision is to continue to make the right platforms available for them through our projects and activities. We work to give them an enabling environment where

their voice is not only heard but attended to. As an organisation, we believe in equal opportunity for everyone

people just misunderstand my kind gesture.

You reach out to a woman; you want to support her career and the next thing is sheâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s thinking you want to take up her You have been supported by different space or you want to take her crown Lagos State Government parastatals. How away from her. Through my Women of effective has this been for your social Rubies platform, I bring success stories programmes? of exceptional women to the front burner It has been highly effective. I must say and itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s very sad when you have one thing that since 2009, the Lagos State government, in mind and the person has other ideas. through its Ministry of Women Affairs Another thing is criticism. A lot of people and Poverty Alleviation, the Ministry of donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t like my openness about rape and the Education, the Ministry of Youth and Social way I continually address it openly. I have Development down to the local government learnt and mastered the art of handling level, has contributed to the success of our these challenges programmes. The Ministry of Women Affairs, . for example, has been partnering with us What age brackets do you target since the inception of our Walk Against when you go out for your sensitisation Rape campaign in 2010 and they also take programmes? up most of the cases reported to us while Our target audience majorly are teens and we follow it up to a conclusive end. I really they cut across all our projects must appreciate the Lagos State government for continually opening their doors and You are a mother of two. How collaborating with us every time. have you been able to juggle between motherhood and your social programmes How are you able to generate funds effectively? to run your various initiatives and Well, it has not been easy but family programmes? comes first so I try as much as possible For several years, I used my personal to spend quality time with my children. I funds. Those were the start-up years and manage my time effectively but I do not most brands only want to identify with compromise family time for work. known organisations. Luckily, things are different now as we have brands sponsoring If you are able to do more for the our projects an also considering our media society, what would you do? platforms viable enough to advertise and I would do everything possible to make showcase their work. All these took many the society a better and safe place for years of personal investment and also work- women and children, especially abused ing very hard to make the vision believable. and vulnerable women. One of my biggest dreams is to be able to set up Help Centres What challenges have you faced as a in every local government. A place where social advocate? women can get counselling, medical support One of the biggest challenges is when and also justice. And also a place close to

I would do everything possible to make the society a better and safe place for women and children, especially abused and vulnerable women. One of my biggest dreams is to be able to set up Help Centres in every local government. A place where women can get counselling, medical support and also justice. And also a place close to where they reside and can walk into freely when they ďŹ nd themselves in any negative situation

where they reside and can walk into freely when they find themselves in any negative situation.

Which person in your life or in the world inspires you to do more?

My mother. This is because she had every reason under the sun not to bring me to the world, but against all odds she did and made sure I became the woman I am today.

My mum is my biggest inspiration and also doubles as my supporter. She believed in me.

55

MAY 6, 2017 ˾ THISDAY, THE SATURDAY NEWSPAPER

ENCOUNTER Jones Anaele

Imo Medical Mission USA is Giving Back to Society Imo indigenes in the US under the umbrella of the Amaimo Community US was home Easter with a full medical team to heal the sick; something that brought joy to beneficiaries and their relatives. Sir Chukwunyere Jones Anaele, President Amaimo Community USA, who led the medical mission, a delegation that treated cataract, glaucoma, fibroid, hernia and a host of other health complications tells Nduka Nwosu why the association is glad to give back to society Anaele

C

an you give a brief on the Amaimo Community USA? Amaimo Community USA is an umbrella organisation of all sons and daughters of Amaimo residents in the US. It is a not-for-profit organisation whose dual aim is to cater to the interests of its members in the US as well as seek ways of making our presence felt through inputs on how to move our community forward through ideas, suggestions in local government or community affairs as well as make financial contributions and application of our professional know-how in moving the people forward. We listen to what happens at home and seek for ways of adding value to the solution of our problems.

That way we move progressively to the next destination Can you tell us what you have done in recent times?

We listen to what happens at home, the distance between us and the people at home notwithstanding. Health management is an important aspect of a useful existence. A lot of people do not have the resources to manage their health especially with reduced income, joblessness and old age. Many people resign themselves to death arguing that it is better to die than live in pain and penury. So, we tried to re-write the situation by organising a medical mission.

We had the last one in 2013 before the current one which has just ended. The people had serious issues of picking their bills. A lot of our people could not afford adequate medical attention. So as an organisation based in the US we organised the medical mission to heal the sick people of Amaimo. Amaimo US had to raise funds, equipment and medication and used the Easter holidays to execute the project.

How would you rate the two missions in terms of delivery?

I was not a part of the 2013 mission but those who participated confess that the 2017 event outclassed that of 2013. For example, we had 160 eye and other medical surgeries and there was no single casualty. We hired equipment from an organisation in the US. In collaboration with a local organisation known as Imo Foundation, we created theatres where these surgeries were carried out. You could hear confessions from the beneficiaries who were obviously elated at the new life that was open to them. The Imo Foundation gave us part of their theatre to carry out most of the eye surgeries. We had a huge number of patients and they all

received the benefits of modern medicine. You could hear them confessing that they went to hospital for treatment but because of the high bills they could not be treated; now a burden of many years has been finally cleared. I wish you had come to Amaimo to see what happened.

Were some of the eye surgeries related to blindness?

There were major cases of cataract and glaucoma. Everything went well.

When they were transported home, people were hugging them, the reactions from relations and the regaining of one’s sight showed a huge difference has been made in their lives. It was a huge success and the people were happy.

What other forms of treatment took place?

There were cases of hernia, fibroid, lumps et al. Nothing was held back. A lot of people now have lumps all over their bodies and we do not know why.

These patients for lack of funds to pick their bills stayed back at home. We encouraged them to come out and they had comprehensive tests before surgery. The list of ailments was extensive but the medical team handled them all successfully.

Back in the US everyone has access to medicare. What is the secret?

The secret is the government which ensures everyone desiring medical attention gets it without being turned back. If you cannot pick the bill, you still get treated and bill settlement comes later. Medical attention in the US is very expensive but the government ensures the process is well implemented such that people are not turned back. I understand it is not the same case here in the country and that if you don’t have the money no one takes care of you. It is not meant to be so. One other thing that we observed is that there is a lack of education regarding the rules of good health. It does not cost anything to do that. There should be concerted effort to let people hear and know what it takes to keep fit. Teaching people how to manage their health is very important. Preventive health is the ideal thing, it is better than the complex case that is death threatening.

In the past folks relied on food from the farms but these days it looks like the vogue is to patronize the fast foods.

This is dangerous suggesting that farm gate returns such as vegetables and fruits are getting leaner and inaccessible. These natural foods helped our parents. I was told the governor instructed that there should be a return

to the old ways of farming and I was glad to observe that a lot of farmlands have been cultivated even in the urban areas. In the days past our ancestors fed on the returns from the farms and these are healthy intakes for good living Did your association devote time to educating the people on the advantages of preventive medicine?

The government can do that by putting out educational facilities aimed at educating and helping the people.

There is need to leave behind a medical team or personnel to handle this. I don’t think this will cost a fortune like politics. We understand what politics is but health is much more than politics and it is important that the budget should substantially address this issue of Medicare.

Does the association advise or contribute to the ideals of good governance to government?

The organisation is non-political and we do not want to be seen as such.

By way of advice what would you tell the government?

What I would tell the government is that there is a lot of health centres built all over the place. The best thing is to equip these medical centres that will help to handle all emergency cases for the elite who still want to pursue their treatments overseas. If properly equipped and managed well these centres will go a long way to avoid cases of deaths where bread winners leave a helpless offspring behind. So it is pertinent to equip these abandoned or poorly equipped medical centres.

Do you intend someday to build a clinic or hospital in the name of the association?

That is a worthy idea. In this trip we bought some equipment.It is very ideal to think along the line of setting up a clinic or hospital so that when we are ready for a mission all we need to do is hop into the aircraft with our kits and with our medical personnel do whatever we can do. This project is a doable one for the future. It makes sense to have such a clinic or hospital we can call our own.

Can you say more on the Imo Foundation and its activities?

I learnt in some quarters that the Imo Foundation is the brain child of the current governor. The foundation has been useful to us and other missions coming into Imo State. Apart from providing some transportation, there were other logistic supports and one of our own who is the medical director as

well as the director general, an amiable person, were part of the success story of the mission.

How have you been able to contribute in other areas of life affecting the indigenes?

We were actively involved in putting in place a security apparatus in the stormy days of kidnapping, armed robbery and related security issues. We provided logistics, built a bank kit and provided uniforms for the vigilante group. We are looking at the education sector as well. Some of the schools are dilapidated with poorly equipped infrastructure. The classrooms are littered with pot holes. We are thinking of helping raise infrastructure standards for these schools.

Are you constrained by funds?

We are. If everyone were to participate in the activities, we would go a long way. That is a challenge because some of the Amaimo indigenes like many other Nigerians are indifferent to what happens here because when they visit home once or twice, they feel depressed and disappointed at the state of things. Raising funds however is no problem for members of the association. Besides the US government offers support to organisations that carry out humanitarian activities and registered as non-profit, as long as transparency is the hallmark of such organisation.

Oftentimes items such as drugs are tax free on purchase. The US government is keen on helping those who help themselves. For example the drugs used by the mission were purchased at greatly reduced costs.

Do you think Nigeria is ripe to operate a homeland security like the US? It is a wise thing to do because it is saddening to see those who visited on holidays or even locals being felled by the bullet of armed robbers or kidnapped for a ransom. This has to do with joblessness because if people have jobs they will not get involved in nefarious activities In the 1980s there was the brain drain syndrome. Do you think it is time for these great minds, creative and talented Nigerians, to come back home and participate in nation building?

Absolutely; people want to come back but bad roads, poor water facilities and lack of electricity discourage them.

It is not a bad idea except that each time some of these Nigerians returned home they were disappointed at the poor state of infrastructure in the country.

TR

Saturday, May 6, 2017

UT H

& RE A S O

N

Price: N250

MISSILE Akande on Buhari’s Health

“There are two challenges facing the country today. The first and most critical is the health of the President which, unfortunately, is a development beyond his control and for which we did not prepare. The second is the disorder and lack of cohesion between the National Assembly and the Presidency.”

– Chief Bisi Akande, former Interim Chairman of the ruling All Progressives Congress, reacting to President Muhammadu Buhari’s health challenge.

PENDULUM Dele Momodu

dele.momodu@thisdaylive.com

Do Our Youths Really Know What They Want

F

ellow Nigerians, I’m very sorry if I’m starting my weekly epistle with what may seem a rhetorical question today.

Columnists are ordinarily expected to throw up certain questions from time to time and proffer answers. Let me confess right away that I may not be able to do so in this piece. My pessimism comes from the fact that my generation of youths complained against these same leaders and although some of us have managed to gain some ascendancy the truth is the older generation I am talking about still seem to call the shots! A sobering and telling indication of this is the recent picture of three of our previous leaders, Generals Abdulsalam Abubakar, Ibrahim Badamasi Babangida and Olusegun Okikiola Obasanjo, along with Otunba Fasawe, meeting in Minna to decide on the fate of the present leadership of our dear country.

One would wonder why these geriatrics, the last of whom was in power 10 years ago should think that they have any role to play in determining the future course of the country and its restive youths when they are collectively mainly responsible for the dire situation that we find ourselves today. The challenges of the 20th century are so diverse and distinct from those of the 21st century and these leaders are simply relics to be placed firmly in the realms of history and not that they should be part of our future. That they deign to have any semblance of influence to determine that future demonstrates the depths we have plumbed as a nation. Given this sorry state of affairs, my mission is only to establish a dialogue or start a debate on what our youths really want and hope that this would help us find a workable solution to the many challenges confronting our youths today.

It is not uncommon to see, hear or feel our youths grumbling and lamenting and groaning about how they have been short-changed by the older generation. I recently wrote about how most of those controlling Nigeria today started holding leadership positions in their twenties and thirties. That is no longer news.

Some have been in, out and around power for the past 50 years or more. And they are not about to quit no matter the loudness of moans and grunts coming from our desperate or disillusioned young ones.

I truly wish I could understand the problem and its solution but it is so tough and confusing that I sincerely doubt if there is any clear-cut answer. The inspiration for this piece came all the way from Durban, South Africa, at the World Economic Forum, where the former President of Ghana, John Dramani Mahama, received thunderous and resounding ovation for his contributions during several of the sessions he participated in. One of the most important sessions he attended and addressed was the one on youth inclusion in power and politics. The conclusion is that there are too many things our youths want and it is practically impossible to have them all. The one they complain the most about is the most difficult to achieve. It is how to seize or wrest power from a generation they believe has become overbearing, overpowering and ancient. This is the crux of the matter.

There is no doubt that the youths want political power by all means but it is not so simple to attain. They must participate as contestants and as voters and remain focused and passionate all the way. If you don’t join a political movement you may never appreciate the process and procedure of becoming a leader. Our youths cannot sit down at home arms, akimbo and expect power to drop on their laps, just like that. It takes time to build

Dele Momodu, former President John Mahama and Tony Elumelu at the World Economic Forum in Durban, South Africa, last Thursday one’s profile and brand. It takes loads of money to fund campaigns. There is no short-cut to power. How many of our youths are willing to contribute or commit the little they have or can afford the harsh realities of political life and the drudgery and scrounging that goes with it.

The youths in other countries make donations to political parties and the political process and become stakeholders in the political milieu. As veritable investors, they would always have a say in how they are governed.

When potentially good leaders stand up as candidates, the young ones are the first to shoot him down. I can confidently use myself as an example. Not many youths believed I was serious and determined to win the Presidential election in 2011. Everyone was qualified except an experienced and versatile journalist who was also a publisher. My roadmap was simple.

I believed that on my own accord, and with God’s guidance and help, I had built a successful brand. I was not tainted or tarnished by being part of the failed political class like most of my opponents who had achieved nothing but failure from the governmental experience that they trumpeted. My view was that since we perennially complained about the abysmal failures and corruption in our body polity, let us jettison our major political parties and start or develop new ones. I strongly believed our salvation belonged in forming new parties or rebuilding a few reasonable ones. I made substantial contributions to Labour Party, National Conscience Party and even KOWA. Till today, I have never been a member of KOWA Party.

The reason I supported KOWA was because I saw people of like minds I genuinely admire in it, especially my big brother, Alhaji Fola Adeola. This is how it should be. How I had wished we had many young ones willing and ready to make similar sacrifice for the sake of our country.

In 2011, I was greatly inspired by the emergence of Barack Obama in America, as the first black President. It was a miracle that I thought could be replicated in Africa. But I was told by my peers that I was a day dreamer. The same people who clamoured for youth participation

in politics were the ones who treated us with disdain. I chose a 26 year old man, Ohimai Godwin Amaize, as my National Campaign Coordinator but many could still not see the statement I was trying to make. We had a parade of some accomplished Nigerians at the time but many preferred to maintain the status quo. I was almost certain that one of us, or a combination of us, Nasir El-Rufai, Donald Duke, Nuhu Ribadu, Usman Malami, Yunusa Tanko, Fola Adeola, Awwal Tukur, Oby Ezekwesili, Pat Utomi, or Dele Momodu would be massively supported in order to correct the faulty Nigerian trajectory but I was very wrong.

I interacted with all but we were not able to make appreciable progress.

I went all the way, even if only as a symbolic gesture. Those who should applaud my guts for trying at all were more interested in dissing me and my family. One reporter wrote nonsense about my wife not voting for me despite the fact that it was in broad day light that we voted in different polling booths. But that is the tragedy of our generation. We prefer to trivialise serious issues and amplify mundane topics. Just imagine where Nigeria would have been if we had assembled some of our best eleven in 2011.

What Nigeria needs is a sort of bloodless ethical revolution. The youths would have to do it now or we will all remain in this terrible quagmire. We talk and sermonise about almost anything and everything but do nothing about the terrible conditions we face. Those who are serious about doing something are often told to get lost. We prefer our oppressors to our liberators. It pains me to the marrow that at a time the world was savouring the euphoria of an Obama, we did not seize the initiative.

Anyone who tried to replicate the same Obama magic at home was rebuffed and treated with disdain. They would tell him he can’t do it.

They would discourage and disparage him.

Some would prefer to queue behind the same people they alleged stole their money. They would do this for money that would barely buy them a meal handed over from the filthy lucre that they incessantly complain about. They

would defend the old as experienced people who can be trusted and entrusted with power.

But if their experience was that good and useful, how come we have found ourselves in this “peculiar mess” in Nigeria with no solution in sight? We have continued to move from frying pan to fire.

Let’s examine what else the youths want so desperately apart from power. The youths want good jobs but these jobs are not readily available. And where and when available many of the applicants are not employable. What President Mahama did in Ghana was to tilt Ghanaian education in the direction of vocational studies. The reason was simple. Why do we keep mass-producing graduates like popcorns when the ones before them and the generation beyond would never be able to get the jobs of their dream? Many go to school to read courses that may not bear fruits. The jobs that are readily available hardly find enough hands on ground. More often than not, nations are in dire need of capable artisans and innovators.

Every country, whether developed or developing requires its youths to be a mix of artisans, technicians, scientists and IT personnel and computer whiz kids. A good example of the youth employment conundrum in Nigeria is the case of students that are rushing to read irrelevant courses and yet expect to find jobs in other disciplines pronto.

There are no easy roads to getting jobs whether good or bad. It is only a man who has one job in hand who can complain and then proceed to seek another. A man who has none would have to manage the one that he can land in hand, especially if he or she is from my kind of background, the proletariat. It takes time to create jobs and spread opportunities. But the youths need the jobs like yesterday. Mahama thought he had a perfect solution by investing heavily in infrastructure development but this would become his albatross. The youths said they were hungry and needed food before anything else. The same seems to be the case of the youths in Nigeria who would seem to prefer to be fed rather that acquire the skills of how to feed people.

Any continent with the type of infrastructure deficit that we suffer in Africa is already in big trouble. It is always a Catch-22 situation. There can be no jobs without adequate preparation for facilities. The facilities cost an arm and a leg. Mahama built or revamped many hospitals, schools, new roads, airports, and so on hoping to secure the future of the youths but he ended up eating his pounded yam as boiled yam.

The youths kicked vehemently and got him out of power. It is one of the ironies of life that doing great work is no longer enough. You have to balance it with stomach infrastructure.

It is a major lesson for leaders out there that the youths are not interested in long tales, all they want is instant results with talismanic effects. Unfortunately, if they are to better their lot the youths must first learn patience and understanding. They must appreciate that ‘panda’ can never be gold no matter how much it is burnished!

It is obvious that the problems we confront in the world today are grave. As 2019 approaches in Nigeria, this question would have to be asked and adequately addressed by our youths. What do they want for themselves? Self-governance or handouts and hand-me-downs? May God make our youths see clearly on how to set themselves free from the bondage of the aged and the past. No one can do it better and faster than our younger generation. The time for them to act and claim what is their right is now!

Printed and Published in Lagos by THISDAY Newspapers Limited. Lagos: 35 Creek Road, Apapa, Lagos. Abuja: Plot 1, Sector Centre B, Jabi Business District, Solomon Lar Way, Jabi North East, Abuja .

All Correspondence to POBox 54749, Ikoyi, Lagos. EMAIL: editor@thisdaylive.com, info@thisdaylive.com. TELEPHONE Lagos: 0802 2924721-2, 08022924485. Abuja: Tel: 08155555292, 08155555929 24/7 ADVERTISING HOT LINES: 0811 181 3086, 0811 181 3087, 0811 181 3088, 0811 181 3089, 0811 181 3090. ENQUIRIES & BOOKING: adsbooking@thisdaylive.com