Thursday 7th September 2017

EFCC Probe: I’ve Nothing to Hide, Says Onnoghen Commission denies investigating CJN, Justice Kafarati, others Paul Obi and Alex Enumah in Abuja

The Chief Justice of Nigeria (CJN), Justice Walter Nkanu Onnoghen has reacted to a

news report (not THISDAY) alleging that he was under investigation by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) for purported

corruption, stating that he was unaware that he was being investigated by the anti-graft agency. He equally assured the public that he had nothing

to hide and was open to any investigation. The CJN’s statement yesterday came of the heels on a similar rebuttal by the EFCC, stating it was

not investigating some high profile Nigerians, including the Justice Onnoghen, the former Coordinating Minister for the Economy and Minister of Finance, Dr.

Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala, and Minister of Solid Minerals Development, Dr. Kayode Fayemi, among others. Continued on page 53

Kale Explains Why Nigerians Can’t Feel Impact of GDP Growth…

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Thursday 7 September, 2017 Vol 22. No 8176. Price: N250

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Edun: FG is Funding Governance Structures Needed for Ogoni Clean-up Says FDI, private sector critical to sustained economic output Ejiofor Alike The Chairman of the Board of Trustees (BoT) of the Hydro-Carbon Pollution

Restoration Project (HYPREP) in Ogoniland, Mr. Wale Edun has stated that the federal government has properly funded both the governing

council and BoT of HYPREP, the two key elements of the governance structures required for the clean-up of Ogoniland and other impacted sites.

The two structures were set up by President Muhammadu Buhari in line with his promise to implement the UNEP Report, which recommended

the setting up of $1 billion fund to clean-up the oil pollution and ensure the environmental remediation to Ogoniland.

Speaking yesterday on a programme anchored by the Editor and Executive Director Continued on page 8

Non-Academic Varsity Unions Join ASUU, Doctors, Start Strike Monday Ngige: Doctors’ action violates trade dispute, breach of agreement Senator Iroegbu in Abuja There is no end in sight to the industrial action in the social services sector in the country, as the major non-academic staff unions of tertiary institutions in the country, yesterday resolved to embark on an indefinite strike from September 11 if the federal government failed to meet their demands. Should they carry out their threat, they would be joining the Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU) and National Association of Resident Doctors (NARD) whose members have downed their tools, making life unbearable for Nigerians.

The latest strike notice from the non-academic unions came just as the federal government was meeting ASUU and NARD yesterday to resolve the issues leading to their strike. The non-teaching staff's strike action was announced in Abuja at a briefing of the Joint Action Committee (JAC) of the Senior Staff Association of Nigerian Universities (SSANU), the Non-Academic Staff Union of Universities (NASU), and the National Association of Academic Technologists (NAAT). Speaking at the briefing, the chairman of JAC who also Continued on page 10

Lai Mohammed: Exiting Recession Did Not Happen by Accident But FG's Hard Work… Page 50

BACK TO WORK AFTER SALLAH…

President Muhammadu Buhari and his wife, Aisha, when they arrived Abuja yesterday after spending the Eid-el-Kabir holiday in Daura, Katsina State state house

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REMEMBERING OLOROGUN MICHAEL IBRU‌

Mr. Goodie Ibru, Olorogun Oscar Ibru, Mr. Peter Ibru, and Mrs. Cecilia Ibru, during the ďŹ rst memorial service held in honour of the scion of the Ibru business dynasty, the late Olorogun Michael Ibru, held at St. Michael’s Church in Agbarha-Otor community, Ughelli North Local Government Area, Delta State‌ yesterday sylvester idowu

Kale Explains Why Nigerians Can’t Feel Impact of GDP Growth Says there’s a problem with wealth distribution Ndubuisi Francis and Udora Odichimma in Abuja The Statistician General of the Federation, Dr. Yemi Kale has proffered reasons why Nigerians are yet to feel the impact of the economic turnaround, saying that growth in the services sector remained in the negative territory, making it difficult for the citizenry to feel the impact of the slight uptick in economic output. He equally cautioned that the growth that ended the recession was fragile, calling for concerted efforts to sustain growth in diverse sectors of the economy. Kale, who spoke at a media parley in Abuja yesterday, following Tuesday’s official release of the second quarter Gross Domestic Product (GDP) report of the National Bureau of Statistics (NBS), showing that the economy grew by 0.55 per cent after five consecutive quarters of contraction, said: “To say that there’s no growth because you don’t feel it is incorrect, there is growth. It’s up to the government to create policies to ensure that the benefit of growth is spread across properly. “The inability to spread it across properly doesn’t mean the growth doesn’t exist. At the time there is a recession, some people are making huge amounts of money, that is the truth. “The time we were growing at 6 per cent, a majority of the population did not feel it, but those who were feeling it did. “How many Nigerians entered the Forbes Rich List in the last ten years? Did we have Nigerians in Forbes before? It shows that there’s growth in economic activities, it’s just that there’s a problem with the distribution of the benefits across the country,� he explained. Kale noted that it was important to draw a distinction on the various

economic indicators, pointing out that GDP pertains to the output of goods and services in an economy. “A recession is not about the price of your goods, it is not about whether unemployment is going up or down, or if there is quality education; it’s purely your gross domestic product – where your output of goods and services in the economy are going down. “The gross domestic product is an accumulation of 46 different economic activities in Nigeria and the overall number. “Whether positive or negative, will determine whether you are in a recession or out of a recession. Now, within those 46 activities, some sectors will do very well and will be positive, some will do badly, some will be worse off and some will stay the same way they are,� he explained, reiterating that it was important for the country to maintain the positive growth so that it will not relapse into a recession. Kale said though the nation’s economy has exited the recession, the issue of whether or not it relapses was a function of activities in the economy. He equally cautioned that the output that ended the economic contraction was fragile, calling for concerted efforts to sustain the growth trajectory in diverse sectors. Kale observed that the growth recorded by the economy in the second quarter in 2017 does not call for celebration. He said what was important was ensuring that the economy does not slip back into a recession. “I believe that there are three recovery stages: one is you get out of the recession. That is, you are not slumping any longer or you have stopped sinking. “The second stage is the economic recovery; economic recovery to me

means going back to where you were before you started sinking. After that, you can now sustain your growth and grow. “Logically, I did not say that means everything is fantastic and wonderful but that is a big step. At least, the slump has stopped, but we can go back into a recession next quarter. “So you can go positive this quarter and by next quarter you can go negative; it depends on what happens with the economy. So it is not about celebrating that we are out of a recession, it’s about maintaining it, restoring it and then growing. “That’s why most people are saying that the positive growth is a welcome development but they always emphasise that it is a fragile growth, it is not yet strong enough. “So it’s not the right time to relax and say everything is okay, especially when the services sector which accounts for 50 per cent of GDP and is felt more by the public is still negative. “Until the services sector turns positive everybody still has to keep up, and that has to be understood very clearly,� the NBS chief executive said. He added that the positive growth that culminated in the economy exiting the recession was largely oil sector driven, occasioned by increased oil production in the Niger Delta as well as the price increase in the global market. In response to a question on whether the NBS was being political by announcing that Nigeria was out of the recession, Kale dismissed the notion, saying: “I have been the statistician-general for two different administrations led by different parties – the PDP and APC. “In both administrations, I published data, both positive and negative. This administration was the one where we published that

we are in a recession and I was the same person that said we have gotten out of the recession. “So I don’t think there’s any consistency in anything NBS does in terms of politics. The recession announcement came two months to the renewal of my tenure. “Now, anybody that’s political does not come out to tell the government that wants to renew their tenure that you are in a recession and inflation is in double digit. It’s not done. “The fact that the NBS can boldly say we are in a recession and inflation has gone from 9 to 17 per cent, then I don’t think anyone should be in any form of doubt about the integrity and independence of the NBS at this point in time. “It’s totally ridiculous; there’s no basis for that. In every administration, we have released both positive and negative data, we are the ones that published these numbers so you can’t decide when we are political,� he said. Kale pointed out that only a few days ago, the statistical agency said food prices were the highest in nine years, asking rhetorically: “So did APC forget to reach out to me before I published that one?� He emphasised that the NBS can never be political, adding that if the country’s GDP turns negative in the third quarter, it will be reported. Asked to forecast what the third quarter outlook might look like, Kale said: “I don't know; we will wait until we see all the numbers. You can never tell until you have everything. “There is the PMI (Purchasing Managers’ Index) that says the purchasing margins have remained above 50 all this while. If that is correct, fine but then the PMI is looking at it month-by-month, GDP looks at it year-on-year. “And again, 2016 was an extremely horrible year, so it’s not that difficult to compare 2016 and

EDUN: FG IS FUNDING GOVERNANCE STRUCTURES NEEDED FOR OGONI CLEAN-UP of THISDAY Newspapers, Ijeoma Nwogwugwu on Arise News Channel, the broadcast arm of THISDAY, Edun stated that the HYPREP BoT was working with all the relevant stakeholders to develop a world-class framework to measure the achievements of the agency. “We have an escrow account, we have investment advisers, fund managers are in place, we have

technical advisers so that when we are given a list of what else has been done, we can check it properly. “In fact, from the perspectives of the board of trustees, we have funded the governing council, we have funded the budget office and they are yet to apply those funds fully and come back for more,� he said. “But in the meantime, one thing

I like to point out is that the idea is not just that the government or just the joint venture oil companies should fund this clean-up, we expect it to last for years and we expect it to cost huge amounts and so we are putting in place a structure that allows other people, other philanthropists, other institutions – national and international – to also put money in that fund.

“So it is not a project-based organisation that we are handling; it is a fund that can take money at any time and is committed to applying it properly; to applying it prudentially to the job of cleaning up Ogoniland,� Edun explained. Speaking on whether the $1 billion was meant only for the clean-up Continued on page 10

2017. I don’t think any of us here will suggest things are as horrible today as they were this time last year. You might say they are still bad but were they as bad as last year?� On the inflationary pressure brought on by high food prices, Kale explained that if general food prices were much lower, GDP growth would have been higher than 0.55 per cent in Q2 2017. “The reason why GDP growth was 0.55 per cent is because high food prices are affecting consumer spending. It pulled down the overall GDP, so if you bring down the inflation rate, you encourage people to spend more which means they can buy more of these goods and services, which will pull up GDP. “So inflation affects the extent to which your GDP can grow by affecting how much you can spend on the economy. When you reduce inflation, people can spend more, when they can spend more, people will produce more. When manufacturers produce more, they can start hiring people to produce more,� he added. Also commenting on the country’s emergence from the recession, the Minister of Budget and National Planning, Senator Udoma Udo Udoma said the slight recovery was a product of the various policies of the government towards reflating the economy, as encapsulated in the Economic Recovery and Growth Plan (ERGP). He stated that the various policies of the government were yielding fruits, as confidence was returning to the Nigerian economy. Udoma said in a statement by his media aide Mr. Akpandem James that the GDP Q2 report of the NBS was a testimony to the fact that government was moving in the right economic direction. He noted that two major objectives were in focus when the ERGP was launched by President Muhammadu Buhari early this year – to get the economy out of the recession and then put it on the path of sustained inclusive and diversified growth. “Now that we have accomplished the first task, attention will now be on growing the economy as rapidly as we can. “We are happy that people are beginning to see the results of the efforts we have been putting in the last two years to get the economy

back on track and to place it on the path of growth and sustained development,� Udoma was quoted as stating. He added that as the economy continues to grow, people will begin to feel the impact of the growth. The minister pointed out that the major focus of government was to reflate the economy through spending in strategic sectors like infrastructure, agriculture, solid minerals etc., to galvanise economic activities and empower the people. Efforts, he said, have also been concentrated on increasing revenue generation to meet the challenges of the economy, which was why the government has been giving attention, among other things, to the challenges of the Niger Delta region. He, however, admitted that it was still early days, as much more work needed to be done to ensure that the growth is sustained. “Therefore, the government will continue to pursue aggressively the implementation of the Economic Recovery and Growth Plan. Government is also working on improving the ease of doing business to attract more investments. “While appreciating the efforts of all concerned in the drive towards the country’s economic recovery, the minister said the government will require the cooperation of all Nigerians to enhance the recovery rate and ensure the achievement of the objectives of the ERGP,� the statement added.

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Despite Paris Club Refund, Bauchi, Abia, C’River, Four Others Yet to Clear Salary Arrears of Workers Despite the release of the second tranche of the Paris Club refunds to the 36 states in the country, seven of them comprising Borno, Cross River, Anambra, Abia, Enugu, Ebonyi, Gombe and Bauchi have still not cleared the backlog of unpaid workers’ wages in their states. A survey conducted by the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN), showed that many state governments across the federation had utilised the second tranche of the Paris Club refunds they received to clear the arrears of their serving and retired workers’ entitlements. However, in most states where the arrears of salaries, pensions and gratuities has been paid, some civil servants and retirees, especially those in the council areas, were still being owed. The survey indicated that some of the workers and pensioners were owed salaries and pensions for periods ranging between two

and 11 months. The federal government in July released N243.79 billion to the states as the second tranche of the refund, having earlier released N388.30 billion to them in December 2016. The refunds were released following protests by the states against the over-deductions from their Federation Account allocations for external debt services between 1995 and 2002. The federal government had advised the state governments to use between 50 and 75 per cent of their share of the refund to clear the arrears of salaries, pensions and gratuities they owed. The survey showed that 15 of the 22 (68.1 per cent) states surveyed so far had utilised the money in settling the arrears of entitlements while seven had not. Those that had paid are Jigawa, Yobe and Adamawa in the Northeast; Kwara in the North-central zone, all states in the South-south

Minister of Finance, Kemi Adeosun except Cross River, and all states in the South-west. Bauchi, Gombe and Borno in the North-east, as well as Enugu, Anambra and Ebonyi in the South-east, were yet to

offset the arrears. In Jigawa, for instance, Suleiman Kiyawa, Executive Secretary, Jigawa State and Local Government Contributory Pension Scheme, said the state government had cleared the arrears. Kiyawa said the state government paid about N461.4 million as terminal benefits to 339 retirees in the state. Muhammad Ali, a staff of the state Ministry of Local Government and Community Development, said no retired or serving worker in the state was being owed any entitlement. Abubakar Musa, a retired civil servant in the state, said each time a civil servant retired, he/ she collected the entitlements without delay. In Yobe, Baba Malam-Wali, the Secretary to the State Government, SSG, said the state had been paying salaries of its workers as and when due and would continue to do so.

The SSG spoke through his Press Secretary, Shuaibu Abdullahi, in Damaturu. However, payment of entitlements of council workers in the state had been delayed due to a conflict among members of the state Local Government Retiree Screening Committee. Kachallah Goni, the state Chairman of Nigeria Union of Pensioners, NUP, commended the state government for the prompt payment and urged it to intervene in the matter to pave the way for hitch-free settlement of the arrears. On its part, the Borno Government said it approved N6 billion to clear the outstanding gratuities and pensions in the state. However, the concerned workers and retirees were yet to receive the payments at the time the survey was published. Yakubu Bukar, Head of Service and Usman Zanna, Commissioner for Local Government and

Chieftaincy Affairs, respectively said in a statement in Maiduguri that a committee had been constituted to handle it. In Gombe, Haruna Kamara, Chairman, Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) said the state government had not settled the gratuity arrears of some retired civil servants. He said government did not inform the NLC in the state of the release of the second tranche, but organised labour learnt of it via the internet. “The truth of the matter is that nobody from the government of Gombe State consulted us about the funds and how they are going to use it,� he said. Abubakar Umar, a pensioner in the state, appealed to the state government to pay the outstanding gratuities. All efforts to get the Secretary to the State Government (SSG) James Phisagi, to speak on the matter proved abortive.

To eliminate poverty in Nigeria, especially in the North East, Edun said the people should have access to income, adding that this could only be achieved by creating employment opportunities. He advised the government to create the enabling environment for the inflow of investments, stressing that the country’s foreign reserves of $32 billion had also encouraged investments. According to him, the government currently does not have the capacity to borrow because of the country’s debt situation, adding that the money must come from the private sector, foreign direct investments and Diaspora remittances. On whether or not the country should sell some of its oil assets, Edun said that could be an option but the concentration should be on building infrastructure to boost

productivity. He argued that government should not invest directly in infrastructure but should encourage public private partnerships (PPPs), and also make policies that would encourage the private sector as has been successfully done in Lagos State. Edun stated that the sale of oil assets could be looked into as an immediate solution to creating liquidity but added that “what matters most is when that liquidity is achieved, what will be done with it?� He recommended that states should diversify so as to play bigger roles in the economy. According to him, most states were not doing well because they are not viable, stressing that this trend has to be reversed for the states to play bigger roles in the country’s economy.

agreement that was entered into was repudiated by NARD and they embarked on the strike (on Sunday), and we had to contact the leadership of NARD and that of NMA, following which we all agreed to reconvene today. “Therefore, our meeting proposed for November was now moved forward so that we could meet today. “We are meeting today in an atmosphere and an industrial dispute resolution that I don’t think is very fair to the Federal Ministry of Health, even though I am a government minister and I am the chief conciliator. “If the government was wrong I will admit that government was wrong, but if the employee is wrong I will also say so,� he stressed. Ngige, who nonetheless said the meeting would not apportion blame but take a critical look at the grey areas in the agreement, disclosed that at a short meeting of concerned government ministries, departments and agencies held before the commencement of the general meeting yesterday, he was satisfied that active steps had been taken to end the strike by the resident doctors. “I can assure you that before this meeting goes into a technical

session, we had a meeting on the government side and I was surprised that the Ministry of Health, Office of the Head of Service and others had commenced implementation of the agreement. “The Office of the Accountant General of the Federation has prepared the shortfall and forwarded it to the Central Bank of Nigeria for implementation,� he added. The minister was optimistic that the areas of disagreement were going to be settled at yesterday’s meeting so that “the doctors can go back to their patients,� expressing confidence that the doctors’ strike will be the shortest ever. However, the Presidents of NMA and NARD, Dr. Mike Ogirima and Dr. John Onyebueze, as well as the health minister, Prof. Isaac Adewole declined to comment before the meeting commenced. Also present at the meeting, which was still ongoing at press time in the Labour Ministry, were the Chairman, Salaries, Wages and Income Commission, Chief Richard Egbule and representatives of the Office of the Head of Service, Office of the Accountant General, the CBN, and the Federal Ministry of Finance.

E DUN: FG IS FUNDING GOVER N AN CE ST R U CT U R ES N EED ED F OR OGON I C L EAN - U P of oil pollution or could also be deployed to other initiatives such as providing health services and other amenities, Edun said the fund would also be used to intervene in the health sector and also in the provision of drinking water for the people of Ogoniland, whose environment was devastated by oil pollution. “It is holistic, it is comprehensive. So it is for the clean-up of the land by remediation, clean-up of the water, provision of drinking water, restoration of the health of the people of Ogoniland, health intervention, restoration of the means of livelihood of the people as well. “So for the young people, we have training programmes; there are empowerment programmes, as well as standards of restoring agriculture and restoring the fishing industry in Ogoniland.

“It is a comprehensive attempt to really restore the lives of the people,� Edun explained. Edun, an economist and former Commissioner for Finance in Lagos State, also spoke on the second quarter GDP growth recorded in the economy, reversing five consecutive quarters of contraction, especially on the oil and financial services sectors. He noted that the information technology and transport sectors have recorded retarded growth, arguing that with the recovery of the country’s oil production and oil prices, the economy recorded the growth as an oil-based economy, which had suffered when production and crude oil prices were down. Edun added that with the recovery of the oil sector and the possibility of Hurricane Harvey in the US driving up oil prices, Nigeria

would have the liquidity to drive the economy. “With all that, we now have the liquidity to drive the economy forward and that is why we are seeing elements of growth. How this will last is a function of how far we keep doing the same thing. “If we agree that it is liquidity that will has driven us out of recession, then we need to maintain it. When you look at the sources of liquidity for this country, it is a diversified economy – agriculture, industrial services and the private sector all contribute to growth. “The fact is that it is the oil sector that provides the foreign exchange, that provides the liquidity, provides the government revenue and that is where the issue is and I think that is where the focus should be – on trying to maintain what we have done so far, which is improving

the foreign exchange market and at the end of the day, it is all about investment,� Edun explained. He also commended the federal government for the achievement but added that for Nigerians to enjoy better standards of living as targeted by President Muhammadu Buhari, GDP growth would have to be much higher than the 0.55 per cent recorded in the second quarter of the year. “The people in government are working hard and should be commended for what they have achieved so far but if you look at even the remarks coming from the president, they are looking at GDP growth of 0.55 per cent but to my mind, it is definitely not enough because what the president is saying is that he would like to see a situation where the lives of Nigerians will improve,� he said.

N O N-ACAD EMIC VAR SIT Y U N ION S JOIN ASU U , D OCTOR S, START ST R I KE M ON DAY doubles as the President of SSANU, Mr. Samson Ugwoke, vowed that the nationwide strike would be total and comprehensive. Giving details on the intensity of the strike, Ugwoke said: “During the strike, there shall be no provision of services, no matter how skeletal. “Concessions shall not be granted while all our members are to stay at home until further notice, unless as directed by JAC through their respective presidents,� he announced. Ugwoke recalled that the nonteaching staff unions in the Nigerian university system had entered into agreements with the federal government in 2009 on a variety of issues affecting their members and their welfare. According to him, these agreements were feely entered into through the instrumentality of collective bargaining. He said: “Following the agreements, we had for eight years, patiently and understandingly awaited action from government to consummate the terms of the agreements. “Unfortunately, government has not been responsive to these issues and where actions appear to have been taken on any of them, they have been implemented in breach of the agreement. “In between, we had engaged in

various consultations and dialogue with government on the issues at stake. Letters had been written and protests carried out to no avail. “Through various organs of government, particularly the offices of the Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF), Ministry of Education and Ministry of Labour and Employment, we had made representations on our issues which have largely been ignored. “Rather than heed to our demands, matters have continued to get worse. Our universities have continued to deteriorate. The poor governance system in the universities which has brought the universities to their kneels has perpetrated itself to the point that our rankings amongst the comity of world class universities are deplorable,� he decried. Listing the reasons for the strike, the JAC chairman said that they ranged from the non-payment of earned allowances, lack of good governance, poor funding as against the UNESCO recommendation, inadequate infrastructure in universities, abandoned projects, irregular payment of salaries, implementation of CONTISS 14 and 15 for Colleges of Technology to corruption in the university system. Ugwoke listed others to include registration of NUPEMCO (pension management scheme), showing more

commitment and seriousness in the renegotiation of the 2009 FGN/ University unions agreements, and ensuring the headship of non-teaching units by non-teaching staff employed for the purpose of those units, among others. He observed that if an agreement was signed in 2009, and in 2017 they were still demanding for the implementation of the agreement, the non-academic staff unions had been exceedingly patient. “Our patience, however, seems to have run out, particularly when the federal government appears to be toeing the dangerous path of taking the non-teaching staff unions for granted,� he said.

Ngige Upbraids Doctors over Strike But just as the non-academic staff unions in the tertiary institutions served notice of their strike, the Minister of Labour and Employment, Senator Chris Ngige described the industrial action embarked upon by resident doctors in the country as a breach of the agreement reached with NARD and Section 18 of the Trade Dispute Act of the Federation. Ngige stated this yesterday at the resumption of the meeting between the federal government’s

delegation and members of the NARD and the Nigerian Medical Association (NMA). The minister said as the chief conciliator between the Federal Ministry of Health and the doctors, NARD was guilty of reneging on the Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) reached last Thursday, in which the parties agreed to reconvene on November 2, 2017. He said: “The Ministry of Health looks like they were short changed because Section 18 of the Trade Dispute Act of the Federation, 2004, states that once a conciliation starts by the minister, no party is allowed to stage a lockout, neither the employee nor the employer. “It is against this background that I said the Federal Ministry of Health is being short changed. “You will recall that last week Thursday, August 31, 2017, we were here and had a very fruitful deliberation and produced a memorandum of settlement which was a collective bargaining agreement. “And one of the articles there was that NARD should revert to their National Executive Committee and present the agreement with a view to shelving the strike that they had proposed. “But we were surprised that the

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NEWS

Ă?ĂĄĂ? ĂŽĂ“ĂžĂ™Ăœ Davidson Iriekpen Ă—Ă‹Ă“Ă– davidson.iriekpen@thisdaylive.com, 08111813081

Yoruba Leaders Give Condition for One Nigeria, Propose Six Regional Structure Govs, senators, traditional rulers converge on Ibadan today Recommends devolution of 25 items on Exclusive List Gboyega Akinsanmi Despite President Muhammadu Buhari’s recent declaration that the power to restructure lies with the National Assembly and National Council of State, the people and leaders of the Yoruba in the South-west, Kogi and Kwara States and the Diaspora have demanded for a six-regional structure as a condition for an indivisible country. They have also recommended the devolution of 25 items on the Exclusive List in the 1999 Constitution, ranging from customs duties to exchange control, currency, coinage and legal tender, arms, ammunition and explosives, and citizenship, naturalisation and aliens among others. These proposals, among others, were contained in a document titled: ‘Restructuring: The Yoruba Agenda 2017’ obtained by THISDAY ahead of a summit of Yoruba people and organisations scheduled to kick off today at the Lekan Salami Stadium, Adamashingba, Ibadan in Oyo State. The assembly of all governors, members of National Assembly, topmost traditional rulers, youth representatives, opinion leaders, representatives from professional bodies and members of all state Houses of Assembly, among others, would deliberate, ratify and possibly adopt the document today. Under the current federal structure, the document noted that the failure of Nigeria “is evidenced by the highest global percentage of children out-ofschool in excess of 15 million; largest internally displaced

persons (IDPs) in a country not at war and 72 per cent poverty level in 2016 and still increasing.� The document also pointed at the rising incidence of security threats and over 65 per cent unemployment rate, lamenting that internal immigration and displacement were extremely high and with “Lagos being a disproportionate destination, more implications on security and overburdening social services.� Prior to the abrogation of the 1963 Constitution, the document noted that the old Western Region now comprising Ekiti, Ondo, Osun, Ogun and Oyo States, had attained a firm foundation for development. “Poverty levels were below 40 per cent; education access and quality was more than average,� the document stated. Since the military’s incursion into politics, however, it said the South-west “has struggled to maintain this trajectory as a result of an over-centralised unitary pull, which continues to bring the best down to the level of the rest instead of taking the rest up to the level of the best. The South-west is the main victim of this tendency.� Contingent on what it described as a debilitating trend, the document noted that the South-west “now experiences education levels less than average in school certificates and poor health indicators. The region came out poorly in many of the performance indices in primary health care among others.� It added that it was obvious that the country “is tottering on the edge of an abyss as

a result of country-wide disaffection brought about by a dysfunctional unitary structure of governance in a multi-ethnic country,â€? thus recommending that there “must be concerted effort to stem this drift to the precipice by restructuring.â€? To pull Nigeria from the brink, the document outlined 13 proposals, which it described as a summary of contributions of Yoruba groups and as the irreducible minimum to create a just and equitable federation where all nationalities and peoples in Nigeria would live. In sum, it canvassed the need for a people’s constitution delineating the structure of the federation, the scope and limits of the powers of the central government vis-Ă -vis the federating units, the form of government, taxation system that conforms to fiscal federalism, policing in Nigeria and the structure of the courts

including the need to create a Constitutional Court. The document is proposing a federation, which it said, shall comprise six regions and the Federal Capital Territory, Abuja. Also, it proposed that the federal government “shall make laws and only have powers in relations to items specified on the legislative list contained in the Constitution of the Federation.� It is proposing that the six regions “shall be the federating units, which shall each have equal representation at a unicameral federal parliamentary National Assembly,� also recommending that the regions “shall in turn be composed of states.� The document stated that each region “shall have its own constitution containing enumerated Exclusive and Concurrent Legislative Lists regarding matters upon which

the regions and states may act or legislate.� It recommended that contiguous territories, ethnic nationalities or settlements “shall be at liberty through a plebiscite to elect to be part of any contiguous region other than the region in which the current geo-political zone or state boundaries places them.�.Continuing, the document stated: “States, as presently comprised in the geopolitical zones into which they fall, which shall become regions, shall continue to exercise the executive, legislative and judicial functions currently exercised at that level of government. “The states within a region shall determine the items on the legislative lists in the regional constitution for the purpose of government and the administration and provision of common

inter-state social, economic and infrastructure requirements. Residual powers shall be vested in the states. “The power to create states shall be within the exclusive powers of the region, which shall be obliged to create a state provided a plebiscite is conducted following a request by an agreed percentage of the residents of the ethnic nationality within a state. The procedure for conducting a plebiscite and the percentage of any ethnic nationality as well as the definition of ethnic nationality shall be set out in the regional constitution.� The document also defined the power “to create local government and assigns their functions,� which it proposed shall be vested only in the states rather than the region and federal government.

Even If Buhari Runs in 2019, I Will Support Atiku, PROJECT INSPECTION L-R: Gombe State Governor, Ibrahim Hassan Dankwambo, and former Vice President Atiku Abubakar, at an inspection of the Gombe International Conference Centre during a courtesy visit by the former vice president to the governor in Gombe, Gombe...Tuesday. Says Aisha Alhassan The Minister of Women Affairs, Aisha Alhassan, has restated her position that she will support former Vice President, Atiku Abubakar, for the 2019 presidential election. Alhassan, in an interview with BBC Hausa Service, added that even if President Muhammadu Buhari decides to contest in 2019, she would still support Atiku. She said in Hausa: “Atiku is my godfather even before I joined politics. And again, Baba Buhari did not tell us that he is going to run in 2019. “Let me tell you today that if Baba said he is going to contest in 2019, I swear to Allah, I will go before him and kneel and tell him that ‘Baba I am grateful for the opportunity you gave me to serve in your government as a minister but Baba just like you know, I will support only Atiku because he is my godfather. If Atiku said he is going to contest.�

Alhassan, popularly called Mama Taraba, added that she was not scared of being relieved of her job as minister. “If because of what I said, I am sacked, it will not bother me because I believe in Allah, that my time has elapsed that is why. “Baba is not a mad man like those calling for my sack. They have been sending and spreading it that if Baba sees this I will be sacked,� the minister said. A video had been leaked of Alhassan indicating her intention to support the former vice-president in 2019. Although he has not publicly declared his intention, Atiku is believed to be strategising and building a coalition for the 2019 elections. Buhari has also not declared if he will run for a second term despite his health challenges.

BPE to Select New Concessionaire for Trade Fair Complex Recovers N6.5bn debt from Aulic Chineme Okafor Ă“Ă˜ ĂŒĂ&#x;ÔË The National Council on Privatisation (NCP) has mandated the Bureau of Public Enterprises (BPE) to immediately initiate fresh processes for a new concession transaction on the Lagos International Trade Fair Complex (LITFC) which it recently withdrew from Aulic Nigeria Limited. Indicating that Aulic had not remitted to the federal government its financial dues in the concession agreement in the last 10 years, the NCP equally asked the BPE to recover a total of N6, 542,172,000 allegedly owed the government as amount overdue to it from Aulic.

While giving further reasons for its recent decision to revoke the concession agreement it had with Aulic on LITFC, the NCP said nothing other than a protracted breach of various aspects of the lease agreement by Aulic informed its action. It listed several instances that Aulic breached its concession agreements with it, and directed the BPE to ensure that a new concessionaire for the 322-hectares complex along Lagos-Badagry Expressway was concluded within six months. Despite an existing court process on the government disagreement with Aulic over the LITFC concession, the NCP on September 4, announced its

revocation of concession. The development has also thrown up reactions from different stakeholders involved in the complex. But in an explanatory document on the concession disagreement by the NCP which THISDAY obtained yesterday in Abuja, the government allegedly received only about N212 million (N200 million as entry fee, and another N12,731,000 for immovable assets) from Aulic since it took over the complex in 2007, and this is despite the terms of the contract which stated that Aulic will pay N40 billion as concession fee on LITFC over 30 years. The document also noted

that Aulic had in breach of the contract it signed with the government and development plan of the complex, sub-leased parts of the facility to third parties without appropriate approval from the government. It noted that the lawn tennis court and land spaces running into hectares of land were illegally sub-leased by Aulic to Motor Dealers and Allied Products Association; Old Mercedes Trucks Spare Parts and Scrap Metal Dealers Association; Coker Building Materials Dealers Association; and Chinese Engineering Construction Company (CCECC) for an upward of 20 years and huge financial returns to Aulic.

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COMMENT

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

LET SLEEPING DOGS LIE

Alarm bells are ringing all over Nigeria, writes Nnamdi Ebo

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Let sleeping dogs lie� is a a 1995 British film, a psychological thriller in which a disillusioned young man becomes embroiled in a situation far more dangerous than he at first believed it to be. It is a proverb which means to avoid interfering in a situation that is currently causing no problems but might do so as a result of such interference; do not instigate trouble, leave something alone if it might cause trouble. Nigeria has moved towards the edge of the precipice, and teetering on the precipice of political, social and economic anarchy, due to the “absence� or non-recognition of constituted authority. Oil prices plummeted and Nigeria’s mono-cultural economy, which has relied heavily on oil for more than five decades dived into hyperinflation such as have never be witnessed since the great depression in the United States (1929-1939). Nigerian governments failed to translate oil wealth to sustainable growth since Shell Darcy struck oil in Oloibiri in 1956. Oil is a wasting asset and it is too late to do much because Nigeria’s oil wealth is gone! Many towns, villages and communities in the Niger Delta will live with oil spillage, oil pollution and environmental degradation forever. Nigerian governments have already let sleeping dogs lie. The rise of Boko Haram in 2002 was possible because of the nonrecognition of constituted authority. The threat began as a local problem, and grew to engulf Nigeria’s northeast. It took the Nigerian military nearly five years to degrade the terrorists. President Muhammadu Buhari and the Nigerian military say Boko Haram has been crushed. On that score, we should let sleeping dogs lie. One of the major campaign promises of the Buhari administration was to fight corruption, the cankerworm consuming oil wealth, depriving the country of infrastructural development, eating up the national treasury, and depraving sources of information regarding the creation of ill-gotten wealth by ‘10-percenters’ (‘authority stealing’ according to the late Fela Anikulapo Kuti), which hitherto served as measures and/or mirrors for exposing fraudulent wealth creation. Even religious organisations and “Men of God� accept “offerings� wherever it may come from. Has the government fought corruption to a standstill? Dogs rarely stand still, so let sleeping dogs lie. President Buhari went on a three-month medical vacation in London and all hell broke loose. Things started happening at a dizzying rate and Nigeria became a rudderless ship. Acting President Yemi Osinbajo did his best but he could not function fully. His powers were transitory and “all the President’s men� gave halfhearted support. They allowed him a transitory period of transient greatness. In that transient presidential powerlessness, some dangerous, pre-adolescent behaviours coalesced. Prof. Osinbajo confronted the problems. I knew the erudite professor will be handicapped. It takes two to be elected to a presidential ticket, only one has the mandate, despite transfer of power through transmission to the National Assembly. Fulani herdsmen attacks increased, became more deadly and Fulani herdsmen–farmers clashes became the

TO AVOID THE TOTAL DISINTEGRATION OF THE ALREADY HEATED POLITY, IT’S TIME TO WAKE UP THE SLEEPING DOGS FROM SLUMBER

norm. With the speed of light, Biafra separatist movements gathered momentum. The Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) led by Nnamdi Kanu declared no future voting in Anambra and the southeast. The IPOB leader presided over meetings and conducted rallies attracting huge crowds with seeming official trappings – attired/adorned in flowing Igbo kingship regalia with emblems/insignia of defunct Biafra. Nnamdi Kanu inaugurated the Biafra Security Service (BSS) and BSS rhymes with DSS, so, let sleeping dogs lie. In a twinkle of an eye, a hitherto sleeping dog, akin to the 4.4 tonnes atomic bomb dropped by the US Air Force on Hiroshima, Japan, in 1945, was unleashed. I am aware of two divergent quit notices: One, the prerogative of landlords to issue/serve rent-defaulting tenants quit notices to vacate former demised property. Two, the infamous quit notice legislations by Adolf Hitler’s Nazi Germany (1933-1945) issued to Jews, homosexuals, gypsies and other “inferior racesâ€? during Hitler’s rise to power in 1933. On June 6, “Arewa youthsâ€? issued an Igbo quit notice to vacate the north before October 1. On June 10, in solidarity with Igbo, “Niger Delta youthsâ€? issued a Hausa-Fulani and Yoruba quit notice to vacate the south-south before October 1. Are the quit-notice givers “youthsâ€?? Youth is between childhood and adolescence (teenage, 13-19 or 21 years). The quit-notice givers are not teenagers and that is worrisome. Hausa-language hate songs against Igbo started trending online and in the north. Reminiscent of the Hutu-language hate songs against Tutsis that sparked the Rwandan genocide which consumed approximately one million Rwandans in 1994, Nigeria appeared on the verge of the Rwandan dĂŠjĂ vu. Nigerian security forces allowed sleeping dogs to lie – for all quit notices. Panicked, Ohanaeze Ndigbo Youth Council cried out that with N44 trillion investment in the north, the Igbo can’t be driven out. On August 21, President Buhari declared that “. . .every Nigerian has the right to live and pursue his business anywhere in Nigeria without let or hindrance. . .â€? Arewa and Niger Delta “youthsâ€? withdrew their quit notices on August 24 and September 2 respectively. Nnamdi Kanu rejected the Igbo quit-notice withdrawal, commanding Igbo to activate an exodus from the north. The irredentist “Biafranâ€? dared the federal government to arrest him after the federal government approached the federal high court to revoke his bail for violation of its conditions. Arewa told the federal government to arrest Nnamdi Kanu and Nnamdi Kanu asked the federal government why they did not arrest Arewa after they issued the Igbo quit notice. Alarm bells are ringing in Nigeria. The federal government, political office holders and politicians cannot claim ignorance of “absenceâ€? or non-recognition of constituted authority. To avoid the total disintegration of the already heated polity, it’s time to wake up the sleeping dogs from slumber. www.nnamdiebo.com

ON THE EDGE OF DISASTER Oludayo Tade argues that the economy is still increasingly precarious

“My Stomach is with me. When I am full I know� 9ce

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here is a big error of fact in what President Muhammadu Buhari was quoted to have said after meeting with some of his ministers who briefed him on the state of the economy after he returned from the UK. After listening to them, the president expressed happiness on the improvement of the state of economy. I wonder if it is the same economy that I live in that they spoke about because from the shoe wearers’ perspective, the economy of Nigeria has made people mad, creates boredom, makes the previously powerful powerless, the respected to lose respect and the cheerful very angry and deadly. Nigeria’s economy has brought out the beast in many people. In this piece, I employ interpretive analysis of the Abolore Adigun’s (9ce) recently released song titled ‘Economy’ to underscore how popular culture contributes to the present understanding and debate on the true state of Nigeria’s economy. Through this we can appreciate how far Mr. President is from reality. Music is a mirror through which we can feel, view and understand human society and has remained an important interpretive tool relating to environment, relational context and human agitations. Its predictive ability makes musicians wear the gown of philosopher and seer. A few of them have engaged in musical activism when displeased with happenings in their environment. They portray the situation of things by embedding stories which reflect the mood of the majority. Popular music has huge followership in Nigeria and Abolore Adigun popularly called 9ce (Adigun Alapomeji) is no beginner in the business. In what appears as his understanding of the socio-economic quagmire being experienced by Nigerians, 9ce contributes to

the discourse of how excruciating Nigeria’s economy has undermined many aspirations, dampened their spirit and makes them worthless. 9ce avers that the lack of social amenities such as water and light, costly fuel, and lack of money have jointly exacerbate bearable condition and driving people crazy in Nigeria. In order to escape these excruciating conditions, 9ce prescribes listening and dancing to music and keeping hope alive. But central to his song are the consequences of bad economic conditions on the life chances of Nigerians. He listed these as heart attack, high blood pressure, and high level of human insanity. The Chief Medical Director of the University College Hospital Professor Temitope Longe had stated that 35 per cent of people in Oyo State are hypertensive. This increases with the state of the economy as more people find it difficult to fulfil their responsibilities. It is no longer news of rising cases of suicide, baby dumping and other crime types. In 2016, according to National Bureau of Statistics (NBS), a total number of 45,554 crime against persons were reported (rape, manslaughter, murder, physical abuse); 65, 397 cases of crime against properties (stealing, burglary, robbery, receiving stolen properties and house breaking) and 2,695 represented crime against local act. The data of NBS as at June, 2017 on selected food prices shows general increment. Today we buy Beans in Ibadan for N800 per Congo yet the economy is improving. It was beautiful Nubia who had stated in one of his songs that the masses are not asking for too much: they want food, good health, good road, potable water and power. How much has the economy improved without all these qualitatively manifesting in the lives of Nigerians? 9ce says “Economy bad, tomatoes na gold, my people dey worry o�. In the recent data on corruption released by NBS Nigerians stressed that after high cost of living and unemployment, corruption is third most important problem facing the country. This is why 9ce asserts

that “Nothing dey work for Naija anymore. Light no dey I for dey watch football. Ai rowo eran lo je kin je ponmo.� What is working in Nigeria? No good roads, hospitals are bad and the president is still going abroad for this reason, Education is comatose and ASUU is still on strike fighting for the ruling class to release money for public education and not their pockets alone! So what is working? Families are facing terrible moments as many breadwinners cannot get bread for themselves let alone for their families. Organisations are laying off workers. Over 29 million Nigerians are unemployed, increasing the rate of the jobless to about 14.2 per cent. All thanks to the president’s improving economy. But things are working well for political office holders. They still have all they need and still manipulate the minds of the masses to actualise their goals. These political masquerades have started singing the song of 2019 in the ears of the president who hesitates to show qualitative effects of an improving economy on the lives of Nigerians. To use another street term Mr President Enu ose! (Words of mouth achieve nothing without purposeful action). We all know the centrality of power in the economy of a nation. It is the life wire of informal and formal economies. Power generation was around 2,841 megawatts as at July this year. Even in the university, the noise of generators would almost confuse you of your present location as one is likely to think you are in one market centre (no funding from government to do research that can deliver alternative power sources). From Aso Rock down to the local government, we operate generator economy with implications for the fuel consumption and high cost of production. As a result, companies fold up. We all know how soccer unites Nigerians and their loyalty to watching foreign clubs. Even in the midst of economic misfortunes, soccer provides temporary relief but how will you watch when there is no light? You need light for relaxation but

you can’t find it! In the midst of unfulfilled promises, politicians have started drumming 2019 and strategising how they will narcotise Nigerians. Understanding their antics, 9ce articulates that promise and fail are essential characteristics of Nigeria politicians whom he described as political masquerade. Remember their promises about fuel that they said had no subsidy on it? Remember PMB’s promise to amend constitution to devolve powers, duties and responsibilities to states to entrench true federalism? What about the one on amending the constitution to remove immunity from prosecution of elected public officials in criminal cases? Did PMB not promise to amend the constitution to allow for local and state policing system? 9ce supplied the answer thus ‘Promise and fail. So so Charade, If I see your lies, political masquerade.’! Frustrated Nigerians seek hope in religious settings while others pour holy water to find their square roots. In order words, many Nigerians have lost their livelihoods and struggling to get by. Doing prognostic analysis, 9ce believes that in order to escape the harsh socio-economic conditions, music can serve as a way out of the woods. This is true as Paul Cardal noted that “One reason music is better than antidepressants is that if you listen close enough you might feel God telling you everything is going to be ok�. Furthermore, Hoda Hotb avers that “I love Music. For me, music is morning coffee. Its mood medicine. Its pure magic. A good song is like a good meal. I just want to inhale it and then share a bite with someone else� and because listening to good music relieves us of pain and tyranny of conscious thoughts, 9ce music on the economy represents music that paints true economic situation in Nigeria which the Federal Executive Council should listen to. Dr Tade, a criminologist, sent the piece via dotad2003@yahoo.com

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EDITORIAL THE NBS REPORT ON BRIBERY

The report merely confirms that the roots of corruption in the police and judiciary are deep and wide

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he National Bureau of Statistics (NBS) recently released a report on bribery in Nigeria. A total of N400bn was received in bribes by public ofďŹ cials within a period of one year, according to the report which stated further that 32 per cent of Nigerian adults who had contact with public ofďŹ cials between June 2015 and May 2016 had to pay bribes to government workers. The police and the judiciary were rated as some of the most corrupt institutions in the country. While both the police and judiciary have disputed the report, it is nonetheless worrying that the institutions responsible for justice administration in Nigeria are considered the most dishonourable in their conducts. That is why we urge the authorities concerned to go beyond denials to instituting corrective measures. Admitting the full scope of the challenge and exposing the soft underbelly of extant practices that fuel bribery and strengthen the life wire of ďŹ nancial misconduct are necessary preambles to ďŹ nding a sustainable solution. Even before the NBS report, stories about the cesspool of corruption THOSE WHO BRING in the judiciary were SHAME UPON THE rife in the public POLICE AND THE space. There had been JUDICIARY ARE THE SAME numerous allegations, some of them very CUSTODIANS CHARGED weighty, against many WITH MAINTAINING of the nation’s judicial THE INTEGRITY AND ofďŹ cers. Speaking at PRESTIGE OF THE TWO an event organised INSTITUTIONS by the Ikeja chapter of the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA), a former President of the Court of Appeal, Justice Ayo Salami, once told lawyers: “You members of the bar often tell sordid stories or tales of certain high ranking serving or retired judicial ofďŹ cers who act as ‘arrangees’ or couriers of bribe. That is, such are engaged at a fee to reach out to judges to inuence or ‘purchase’ justice in certain sensitive cases.â€? The case of the police is worse. While there were several stories of police ofďŹ cers collaborating with

Letters to the Editor

criminal gangs, not a few Nigerians have had experiences of extortions from some of the notorious ofďŹ cers and men who act in a manner unbecoming of a police force. Demanding bribes from motorists on the roads, collecting money before accused persons are offered bail from their stations aside being deployed as muscle men for rich people, the image of the police is not as edifying as their authorities would want Nigerians to believe. The problem is now compounded with the damaging allegations from a serving senator who, as it is now coming out, may himself be a former police ofďŹ cer.

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

TRUE CHARITY SEEKS NO RECOGNITION

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he natural inclination of man is to seek validation and approval. His need for public endorsement is better explained in the context of the animal kingdom - where gaining respect and admiration enhances survival. This desire for acknowledgment and commendation is in itself healthy, and indeed the motivation for many great human endeavours, but it quickly runs amok if unchecked. There lies the need for introspection and reflection. There comes the need to curtail unbridled ambitions. Every thought, every idea should be thoroughly examined. So that self- seeking cravings are aborted and the less privileged are not exploited, in guise of public donations. In this party of feigned concerns for the downtrodden, no one dons better attires than political office holders or wannabes. Their colours are the brightest and their linen the choicest. By some stroke of magic, market women and street children suddenly become noticeable, weeks to elections. Without hesitation or reluctance, every resource is then mobilised for stomach infrastructure. But those are political jobbers. One needs not take their merry band seriously. Distance should however be maintained, so their illness is not transferred, if contagious. Now to the zealously held and sadly, familiar: The devotion in some temples is high, but more for contests

iven the foregoing, attacking the NBS for a report that merely validated what most Nigerians actually believe will not resolve the problem nor will mounting a media propaganda. The authorities within these institutions must begin to distinguish between all the variants of the pervading malaise, so that appropriate strategies for tackling each can be designed and implemented within the broader framework of values reorientation. This will lead to an eradication of the various forms of graft that the operating environment subtly encourages and nurtures. In the judiciary, there is an urgent need for internal house-cleansing. The crisis of credibility aficting the arm of government has taken a serious toll on the institution whose image in the eyes of most Nigerians is now severely battered. So bad is the situation that some men and women on the bench, including Supreme Court Justices, are being linked with allegations of corrupt practices. Restoring credibility has therefore become very important. As we have highlighted on this page on several occasions, those who bring shame upon the police and the judiciary are the same custodians charged with maintaining the integrity and prestige of the two institutions. It is therefore high time all stakeholders within the police and the judiciary sat down to realistically deal with the issue of bribery that robs the administration of justice in Nigeria of its impartiality, fairness and integrity.

during harvests. Either to appeal to human psychology, or to ensure transparency, anonymity of donors is jettisoned. Names and family donations are published. So the affair, for the vain-hearted, becomes a race to lead the pack. Or to at least match contemporaries, if there is no means. Even those who ordinarily will not donate are forced by that method. The results will be in public glare. So the shame of making no contribution gates many penniless members at home. But despite that narrative, it is not yet a central teaching that acts of philanthropy be trumpeted. The bible in fact speaks to the contrary. One can reason with the way of the world nonetheless. Charitable organisations need to show evidence for donor funds. But if philanthropy is done out of personal account, why draw attention to it? When we gather the hungry, the homeless, the wretched, and take pictures of kind selves as we provide relief, we simply are mocking their sorry state. When we upload those pictures for instagram likes, and in exchange for retweets on twitter, we strip our victims of dignity. Yet, can’t charity be announced so the community can imitate? Certainly it can. But he really must be a peculiar man, that finds no example of good behaviour, but himself. It is good and praiseworthy to be a philanthropist. But it is even better to be a quiet one. Adeyoose Olusola, Ibadan

A COUNTRY OF TWO NATIONS

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igeria is a sovereign country. Niger, to the north of Nigeria, is another sovereign country. Both countries share a geographically-blurred and a culturally-blurred largely unpatrolled border and this is now the heart of the matter from a geopolitical and a geoeconomical standpoints. From all indications that land border is a curse because Niger is easily the poorest country on earth from most identifiable indices: weather and vegetation, education, health, natural wealth, population control, etc. What this means is that unless Nigeria’s economy sustains a double-digit growth pace, population pressures from Niger’s teeming masses and hordes would always arrest what little progress Nigeria

would make. Nowadays, as is always wont to be, a stroll through any of the Northern Nigeria’s cities would reveal an expanding profile of a sub-population group who are obviously illegal residents from Niger and that amongst this group is a disturbing trend of wanton child-bearing, open defecation habits, and watervending with petty kiosk-based trading thrown in the midst. This group is truly expanding rapidly and it is known that their adult members have a knack for Nigeria’s national identity card racketeering. Nigeria has had troubles forging ahead as a single nation and its prospect for growth with a deadweight appendage on its northern border can only be dismal. Sunday Adole Jonah, Department of Physics, Federal University of Technology, Minna

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POLITICS

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

PERSONALITY INTERVIEW

Abdullahi: APC Manifesto is Not for Four Years Only The National Publicity Secretary of the All Progressives Congress, Bolaji Abdullahi, in an interview with journalists rejected the claim that the party has failed to fulfil its promises to voters, saying four years is not enough to implement his party’s programmes. Hammed Shittu was there and presents the excerpts:

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PC has been in power for more than two years now, what is your assessment of the economy under the party? The economy has been quite challenging, given that our economy is largely mono-cultural, depending on the price of crude (oil) in the international market. So, when that falls, it would have direct impact on government spending capacity and the kind of investments the government can make. This has created its own problems and we can see the crash in the value of the naira and the inability of the government to reflate the economy appropriately and all the other challenges; increase in the price of staple commodities, which has direct implication for people and the households. Definitely, it has been a great challenge but as we can see where we are now, is not where we were about a year ago. By the end of last year or beginning of this year, at some point, you would think a dollar would hit N600 and that by now, everything would have gotten out of the reach of the ordinary people but you can see that government having worked so hard, has managed to slow down the situation and the economy has improved and now we are talking about getting out of recession. So, once the economy comes out of recession, you will begin to see improvement in quality of lives of people. It has been very challenging, especially for us in the party, who watch our government with all the promises we made; struggle with the economic situation the way that we didn’t envisage. But we believe that things are improving now. We acknowledge that there are still difficulties; people are still experiencing a lot of hardship. But we are hopeful that with time, all of this will get better. The opposition still believes the government has not done enough to revamp the economy. I can tell you that I’m one of the people, who believe that two years on, we shouldn’t even be talking about what PDP did and did not do. I believe that after two years we have been in power, we cannot continue to appear like we are blaming PDP for everything. Nigerians knew that PDP was no longer acceptable to them, that is why they voted PDP out and voted APC in. But be that as it may, I think if you create a problem and other people are trying to solve it, I think the least you could do is to at least keep quiet, not continue to lay claim to any superiority. The economy of Nigeria did not collapse. If you recall even before the last administration of President Goodluck Jonathan, Nigeria has started borrowing money to pay salaries. And so many people including former CBN Governor, Professor Charles Soludo, our own Sanusi Lamido Sanusi, warned at a time that whoever takes over from Jonathan is going to face a very tough time running the economy. It wasn’t the APC that created the situation. So, APC inherited a situation and tried to make the best of what we have found. Then, you also have to ask yourself, the kind of revelation that is coming forward. EFCC has reported how much money it has recovered in loots. Then, you ask yourself. How did it happen. How did it happen that so much money can be stolen from the system? Those must have implication for the economy. If an individual is said to forfeit permanently amount to the tune to £17millon, the kind of figures we are hearing is even difficult to wrap your mind around it. So, if you take those kinds of money out of an economy, it must have an impact. How did it happen that those monies were stolen

You can’t just say because you have recovered money, then you can decide whatever you want to do with it. It will have to be re-appropriated by the National Assembly. Only the National Assembly can make law on spending. So, it is only when they make law to spend that the executive can spend

Abdullahi.... PDP should keep quiet

under a PDP government and they created a situation and you are now saying that people destroyed the economy. If APC destroyed the economy by doing what we are doing, what did PDP do by allowing the kind of mind boggling stealing that happened in the last two years, repair the economy? I think it is ridiculous some of these arguments we hear. But I don’t think it is one of the conversations I want to indulge in, saying that PDP did this and that, because that is what they want to happen. I think they should focus on what the job of opposition is. My worry is that I listen to a lot of PDP statements and I read them, I have this disturbing feeling that it is driven largely by vengeance. On true level, these people took us out of power and then we want to go back as quickly as possible. Or these people were very good in propaganda, let us use the same weapon and let us throw the same propaganda. I see vengeance in most of their communications. But I think they should remember that we have a country. Last week or so, when Mr President hosted both parties, APC and PDP, he said that much. That we need a country first before we can even claim to belong to a political party. To everyone’s commendation, PDP Caretaker Chairman, Senator Ahmed Makarfi, said the same thing, that opposition is not a license to madness. Even though we are in opposition, we have a duty to support our government and our country. I think that is a spirit. So, if he is saying that, I think his party men need to listen and see the need for us to support the government. The mandate the APC has is not two years, it is four years; we are just midway. So, they should wait until after the four years. So, if we don’t perform, Nigerians know what to do. The APC-led government has been prosecuting war against corruption since it came on board. What is your assessment of anti-corruption agencies? You heard the Chairman of EFCC saying how

much money they have recovered and how much prosecution they have secured. To that extent, I think they have done well. For me, I would still wonder in spite of EFCC, ICPC and all that, it was possible for the kind of stealing that happened to happen in the first place. Because if you are saying you have recovered so much amount of money, we must also ask how was it possible for people to steal that amount of money in the first place. I think it is important for us to support the EFCC and strengthen their capacity to prevent that kind of looting from happening. I don’t think it does us enough good whether in terms of public relations as a country, to allow people to steal then we still have to work in terms of recovering the loots. I think if our institutions are robust enough, we should be able to prevent that level of stealing. There is a level that you tamper with the system that an alarm must go off. So, if the alarm refuses to go off, then something is fundamentally wrong. How can someone steal billions of dollars from an economy and nothing will give, how can someone buy all those properties that they are recovering now, that they are now forfeiting and there was no alarm in the system? That is a disturbing sign. If you have a car and you have that car with hand break on, and there was no alarm, then you should be worried. So, if something is wrong with the system, there must be an alarm, that something must go off, that would say something has gone terribly wrong here. So, if there was no warning system or alarm, and that kind of stealing was possible in the first place, then it is a major problem. At the rate it is going, and with all the recovered money, will APC be able to fulfil all its promises to the electorate? Don’t forget that this money recovered would have to revert to the treasury and it has to be re-appropriated by the National Assembly. You can’t just say because you have recovered the money, then you can decide whatever you want

to do with it. It will have to be re-appropriated by the National Assembly. It is only the National Assembly that can make law on spending. So, it is only when they make law to spend that the executive can spend. On the second issue whether we have done well enough to satisfy ourselves whether we have delivered on our promises, I think we are still two years on, let us see, we will continue to work hard. For us as a political party, our role is to continue to support our government, encourage our government and hold the political environment stable so that our government can focus on what they need to do. But we cannot say that within four years you fulfil all your electoral promises and everything in your manifesto. Don’t forget, a manifesto is not a four-year programme. Whatever government promises to do, it is a derivation of what is contained in your manifesto. Don’t forget that PDP had its manifesto. Inspite of the PDP’s manifesto, President Goodluck Jonathan had his transformation agenda, which did not cover everything in the PDP manifesto, ditto Yar’adua with seven-point agenda, which did not cover everything in the PDP’s manifesto. So, I believe that President Muhammadu Buhari has his own priorities and those priorities are very clear; I will create jobs for young people, especially using agriculture and solid minerals; I will fight Boko Haram and enhance security in the country, and I will fight corruption. Those are the three cardinal promises that he made. If you want to call it three-point agenda, you are welcome. If he is able to deliver on these three, I think he (Buhari) would go home satisfied that he has delivered on his election promises. But as far as our manifesto is concerned, I think that is why we have a manifesto based on whatever we are able to do in three years, we go back to the people, and say give us another opportunity to continue, and I hope that by then we would be able to convince Nigerians that we have done enough to get another mandate.

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T H I S D AY ˾ THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 7, 2017

POLITICS

Tumsah: North-east Rehabilitation, a Difficult Task The Vice Chairman of the Presidential Committee on North-east Initiative, Tijani Tumsah in an interview withBolajiAdebiyi,Iyobosa UwugiarenandWaleAjimotokan highlightsthedifficultiesinbringing norlmacy to the war-torn zone which covers about 25 per cent of the nation’s landmass. Excerpts:

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resume back to flagship school of Chibok this year. This has not been done before, we are trying to make sure that happens. That is the secondary school that was attacked by the insurgents. So, we have instituted some programmes around the school. We are hoping that by the end of next month, schools will resume. And with the Save Schools Initiative programme, we have consistently been doing more internal evaluations to revive schools that are housing students from the North-east region, particularly, Bornu, Adamawa and Yobe States, who are enjoying scholarship paid by PCNI in conjunction with the Save School Initiative by Gordon Brown and the Nigerian government. That is going on very well. We are hoping that about 95-98 per cent of them will graduate.

hat exactly is the mandate of the PCNI? The Presidential Committee on North East Initiative (PCNI) is mandated to coordinate all efforts in the North-east to identify gaps and also identify those that can fill those gaps. That we have been able to do substantially because prior to this time, there were many people in the field doing many things in various places. But now we are able to sit and coordinate what intervention each player is doing and where it is doing it and what the target is. To that effect, you are able to see where nobody is playing, improving on the lives of the IDPs and community and direct any gap filling measure that you need to do to fill into that area. For instance, earlier this year, there was a gap for foodstuff, which PCNI filled by getting food stuff and supply to the various states of the North-east. We have to fulfil our coordinating role, ensure that there is a monthly coordination meeting of all major stakeholders to discuss the situation as of that month and see what progress we have made in the month and where there are gaps still we need to coordinate and plug. That is the major achievement. Could you share with us some of the strategic interventions you have made in fulfilling your mandate? First of all, I mentioned the interventions in the food absence programme in the North-east and we filled in that gap. We had advocacy in Bama, which we did to take care of the IDPs that were in Bama camps. And we worked with a local based NGO, which was a coalition of about 200 doctors, nurses, and auxiliary health workers, to deliver health care facilities and health care functions to people in IDP camps in Bama at that time when there was a serious need for that. We have engaged with, for instance, the Gowon Centre to do outreach on hepatitis in Bornu and Yobe States. This is to ensure that children and health workers themselves were not infested with hepatitis, which had grown to almost a deplorable proportion. We have relations with Yobe State government and have concluded on the need to re-establish the secondary health care facilities in the state. We have done same with Bornu and we have almost finished forwarding the items that were donated by the international community to those states also, including Adamawa, Bornu and Yobe. You are to provide resources for the rebuilding of those structures that were destroyed by Boko Haram,. Have you been able to do that? Well, we have done quite a few things in conjunction with the state governments. There are things we do with local NGOs and CPOs. There are things we do straight on. For example, the Victims Support Fund has been able to build major public structures in Damboa, Bama, Bornu and Adamawa. So, like I said, our main activity is to see how we can commence development, institution recovery and find out who can be able to do that and how we can go ahead and complement that gap filling functions with the resources that we have. To that effect we have also engaged with a lot of partners, NNPC and other oil companies operating in Nigeria, who have indicated that they are going to help. We are working on a framework now with the oil companies to see how that will happen. They have made various commitments. We are very encouraged that going forward, you will see quite a few improved interventions on health recovery, infrastructure, education, energy, agriculture, women empowerment and general entrepreneurship activities in the region. Inspite of billions of naira that had gone into the North-east, problem still persists.

Tumsah...As long as there is insurgency there is a problem.

Are there measures in place to ensure the situation does get out of hand as it did sometimes ago? The humanitarian issues arose from the circumstances of that time. As the military made advances into areas that were not reachable in the past, you had to deal with the recovery of people, who had been under siege for a long time without access to food, and whose children had no access to nutritive components of life building. To that effect, we had to work tirelessly to make sure those items were delivered. We had a medical outreach, the major purpose of which was to make sure that the severely malnourished children as well as the entire population was reached. But as the military made advances, we had issues of dealing with people who were dying of hunger and children who were suffering from severe malnutrition. Do you have challenges getting those relief materials to the victims because what we

However, insurgency affects efforts at rehabilitation because of the international conventions that say that you can’t take people from safety to harm

heard in the past was that some materials originally meant for the victims were diverted? What we do is to work in partnership. We are not taking any body’s job. What we do is work with NEMA, the states’ emergency management agencies, and also work with NGOs to do these things in harmony. Now, whether there are items found in the market, I am not in a position to indicate that right now. There have been stories, some confirmed, some unconfirmed, but where they have been confirmed I know punishment had been meted out. The actual position is that 99 per cent of the food reach the victims. But just recently, there was a report that portrayed the humanitarian crisis as very bad in spite of the efforts by your agency to intervene. The crisis at hand is that about 2.5 million people are displaced and less than 10 per cent of them are in camps; most of them are in host communities. Many of these host communities are not too endowed with resources. So you have a situation where you have to service both the host communities and the camps. Now, 10 per cent is actually a large number. Five per cent is actually the number of those sequestered in the camp and most of them are actually in those states. Have you done an inventory of children that were out of school? Can you give us an idea of how many children are back in school now that the military have restored some order? I cannot give you the actual number of children back in school because we are now in between school period. May be towards the end of September, we will be able to know from the registration process the resumption rate. But, like I said, we try to see that schools are also rebuilt and ready for occupation by students. The North-east has the largest number of out of school children, even before the insurgency. So, any progress we make towards that is an improvement. We are at the helm of trying to make sure that students

How many people and communities have been rehabilitated and resettled? I cannot easily give you that now. What can be done is to say this community is safe. However, insurgency affects efforts at rehabilitation because of the international conventions that say that you can’t take people from safety to harm. Return is based on recovery of space. It also means you cannot return somebody if he doesn’t wish to go back. What we try to do is to make where he wants to return to safe, attractive and support him with economic engagement that will probably make him stay where you want him to stay. So, we are in a continuous process. The entire region is not in one condition. There are variety of dynamic movements in the affected states and within those three states you have situations in each local governments of the status of people at any given point in time. Our job is to make sure that for this motley of activities that we are having across the board, we are able to cushion the effects of return, encourage return within the guidelines of the conventions that are guiding return. Recently there was a resurgence of Boko Haram activities. Has it in any way compounded your attempt to perform your mandate? As long as there is insurgency there is a problem. So, we have to work within the success of the federal government in terms of giving support and working with the military to certify which areas are safe for return and giving protection to the people from those areas to return. We are considering aggregating communities so that they are easier for people. This is now in our long-term programme where disparate communities are housed within areas that can be properly protected by the military, the police or the national security apparatus. Recently, Cameroon repatriated some of the refugees that were living across the border to Nigeria, how has that compounded the rehabilitation efforts of your agency? We have a tripartite agreement now that indicates that Cameroon will return the numbers of Nigerian refugees that are in Cameroon. And we have to make sure that we are ready when they do come back. For those that have come, including those forced to return, we are now having to deal with multiple issues of how to provide them with shelter and feed them. And in conjunction with the refugee commission, NEMA and Bornu State government, we are doing as much as we can to ensure that at least they are housed in, the first instance, in a place that is safe and that they have shelter and food until their longer term needs are met. Now with the expectation of the roughly 70,000 refugees coming back from Cameroon, the tripartite agreement among Nigeria, Cameroon and the United Nations Commission for Refugees, has set up a technical working group, with PCNI also as a member, to sort out the modalities of receiving and housing them properly.

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THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 7, 2017 Ëž T H I S D AY

FEATURES

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

Celebrating the Aba Festival Igarra, the administrative headquarters of Akoko-Edo Local Government Area of Edo State was agog recently when its residents rolled out the drums to celebrate the 228-year-old Aba festival. Adibe Emenyonu who witnessed the event, writes

Massive crowd at the Aba festival in Igarra, Akoko-Edo LGA, Edo State...recently

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urrounded by gigantic rocks of the Kukuruku hills, seemingly in defiance of the laws of gravity is a site to behold. Amidst these rocks is the land of Igarra, the administrative headquarters of Akoko-Edo Local Government Area of Edo State. According to oral tradition which has been published by many among whom is Ajayi Avoveme Alabi, the people are the only tribe that speak Ethno, a dialect derived from Ebira that is spoken around Kogi State. Besides, "they are the only stock that speaks the language in the whole of Akoko-Edo Local Government Area and in the entire state," said Avoveme. Apart from the rocky sites in Igarra, the place is home for a lot of cultural festivals. Though there are many festivals in Igarra, the most significant and prominent of them all is the Aba festival which is celebrated every six years and every seven years going by the native calendar. One of the things that make the Aba festival tick is because of its tie to the age grade system which according to the Otaru of Igarra, HRH Oba Emmanuel Adeke Saiki II, are seven in number. Opa-Operewun (primary), who function as the youngest between the ages of 18-21 and seen during the new yam festival parading themselves to show fitness. The second group is Opa-Ajorupa (secondary) that takes the responsibilities of clearing public places like market, foot paths and digging of grave of the dead. The next in line, the Otaru stated is the Opa-Enebete (Labour of Junior group) bestowed with the responsibilities of making arrangement for the interment of the dead. This is followed by Opa-Enetenioku (Foremen of Adult group) who dress the corpse for burial, carry the dead body to the graveyard. Next in line is the Opa-Aturoga (Senior Group or Supervisors) who coordinate the activities of age group one to four which is below them in hierarchy, beside understudying and assisting the (Opoga) age grade number

six in performing their legitimate duties and rights. After that you have the Opa-Oga (Managers or Management team) saddled with the responsibilities to share what is to be shared in the community materially or devolution of functions. They also arrange sittings at any general meeting at family kindred and community levels, maintaining peace, law and order. The last as gathered is the Opoze (Directors or Policy Makers group), they are the last age group in Igarra who take care of the day-to-day administrative duties. They enact and enforce laws in the community. It is this last group (Opoze) that graduates into the Elders' Council known as Azebani

To emphasise the signiďŹ cance of the festival to the people and Government of Edo State, Governor Godwin Obaseki who declared the festival open on August 25, 2017, said his administration would take advantage of the appeal of cultural events such as Aba festival to strengthen the existing unity among Igarra people and the state in general

which necessitated the beating of the Aba Drum, making it the most prominent of all "Irepa festival". It heralds the initiation or transmutation of the Opoze Age group to a higher class in the society. This became the reason why the entire length and breadth of Igarra was agog as 650 members of the Opoze age group were initiated into the Azebani (Council of Elders. One of those elevated is Dan Ukana, a senior photo journalist with THISDAY newspapers). Six years ago, as a member of the Opoze age group, Ukana, another veteran journalist with the Daily Times, Joe Obende; and Chris Adamhagbo, Registrar, Ambrose Alli University, Ekpoma, were among the people that stood on a nearby rock, watching their elders elevated to the Elders' Council. Today, these men together with others now enjoy the privilege of becoming elders of Igarra. Apart from that, the ceremony is quite tasking as those who are initiated into Azebani (Elders Council) are required by custom and tradition to cook for members of their respective family. The food is usually pounded yam, with Ogbolo, Okro, Egusi soups as the case may be throughout the ceremony. This is usually done for four days beginning from the eve of the festival, to the day of the festival proper and beyond. At every circle, families gather in groups to be entertained by the celebrant within their respective and immediate families. The delicacy is usually pounded yam served in big serving plates in conjunction with varieties of soup and meat as big as the human head. One striking thing about the consumption is that the food is also shared among the different age groups in the family who will take their portion to one corner and begin to dip hands jointly into one bowl of pounded yam and soup to eat. Thereafter, the meat is shared amongst them with excitement and admiration. "It signifies oneness and the bond that exists among members of that family," Ukana

enthused. To further show the importance indigenes of the town ascribe to the Aba festival, a United States of America-based Igarra citizen, Nasiru Adekoye who is also a celebrant, said he moved his family members home to be part of the celebration. He told THISDAY that "I was here six years ago as a member of the Opoze age grade. Today, I am very grateful to God for getting to this age (Azebani). Besides, I grew up here and I am a native, and so there is no way I will not come." In furtherance of that oneness and happiness that pervades the land, family members file out to escort their relations to the venue of the ceremony where the initiates will be required to stay at a particular location waiting for the sound of the 'Aba Drum'. At the sound of the drum, they (the initiates) who all wore white materials, from their caps, dresses and shoes, symbolising purity file out singularly dancing and singing round a big rock (agigibobo), mounted by the drummers to the admiration of all which signified their initiation. As soon as this is done, they file out and are led back home by their relations to continue in the pounded yam merriment. Explaining the rituals that accompanied the ceremony, the custodian of the Aba drums, the oldest from Aziakuta Opoporiku family, said before an Igarra man celebrates the Irepa festival which elevates him to Azebani (Council of Elders), he must have served his community successfully in various capacities for at least 35 years. He said the Opoze age group is more unique because it is the centre of attraction in all the Irepa festivals for making the laws and enforcing them years later which he said called for celebration. Explaining further, he said on the day of the festival, no other persons is allowed to go out on white attire irrespective of status in the society except the Opoze celebrants who will climb the sacred Opoporiku hills (community cultural headquarters).

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FEATURES This is a beautiful culture that needs to be celebrated by the people of lgarra as well as all Edo people and should be a rallying point for all of us so that we can collectively woo more tourists to come and invest in the state and enjoy our rich cultural heritage

Custodians carrying the Aba drums during the Aba festival...recently

Family head of Aba drums custodians on a horse ride at the initiation ground

Celebrants dancing round the Iretuba cultural stone

According to him, this special day is preceded in the evening of the previous day the shooting of ceremonial dance guns and cannons, first in the compound the Odovidi (leader of the age group) who must be the oldest celebrant from Aziakuta Opoporiku family by 2p.m. and followed by other celebrants by 4p.m. Confirming this, Ajayi Avovome Alabi in her narration stated: "The morning of the festival is usually heralded with tremendous entertainment of food and drinks, usually prepared by the major celebrants, the graduating Opoze age group to Azebani, Council of Elders. The major delicacy is usually pounded yam, which every celebrant prepares for members of his family and kindred. Assorted

drinks and bush meat go with the eating. After this, each family member will escort the celebrant, Ofumamo." Continuing, she said the celebrants and their family members clad in immaculate white 'agbada', shoes and caps to match will assemble at designated places to dance to Ofumamo. For instance, Alabi pointed out that celebrants from Uffa will gather at Uneh, enroute to Ofumamo who will be joined there by Utua colleagues before moving in the same convoy to meet their counterparts from Ugbogbo at Somorika junction at Ugbogbo for the great trek to Ofumamo, venue of the initiation. "It is mandatory that celebrants usually dress in immaculate white agbada attire

with bells/white horsetail, caps and shoes to match as a matter of honour. At Ofumamo, the Aba drums which must have been set at the ready at Iretuba - a cultural stone at the centre of the area by the custodians (Eziakuta Opoporiku family), are beaten for the celebrants to dance from where they are specially gathered," she narrated. In his contribution, the festival as told by Ozioruva Aliu, a journalist with The Guardian Newspaper and an indigene of the town, is as old as 228 years. According to him, the festival started as a celebration of victory by hunters over the initial settlers of the land who were dwarfs in nature in the land known today as Etuno (Igarra). He said the age grade system was a deriva-

tion of the administrative system from the aborigines (midget) size settlers who were over powered by the warriors that founded (Etuno) Igarra. "The Aba festival is the most spectacular singular event in the celebration of the Irepa festival. It is the highest crowd pulling of all Irepa festival events. It marks the climax of activities as it indicates the end of a sevenyear traditional administrative tenure and the beginning of the new one.� To emphasise the significance of the festival to the people and Government of Edo State, Governor Godwin Obaseki who declared the festival open on August 25, 2017, said his administration would take advantage of the appeal of cultural events such as Aba festival to strengthen the existing unity among Igarra people and the state in general. Obaseki who was represented by his deputy, Hon. Philip Shaibu, further said that the festival would receive more attention from his administration so that it can boost the economy of the state. “This is a beautiful culture that needs to be celebrated by the people of lgarra as well as all Edo people and should be a rallying point for all of us so that we can collectively woo more tourists to come and invest in the state and enjoy our rich cultural heritage," Obaseki said. In his remarks, the Chief of Staff to the Edo State governor, who is an indigene of Igarra, Mr. Taiwo Akerele, said the event was significant to the people of lgarra especially those graduating from one age group to another. He explained that the festival was a unifying event for the people of lgarra, adding that the grand finale is the beating of the Aba drum. Akerele's statement is an eloquent testimony that beyond the pavilion where the dignitaries such as legislators, state commissioners, traditional rulers, community leaders elders and other invited guests sat, one could see youths, women, children in different colourful costumes, singing, dancing, merry making, exchanging goodwill, expressing pride of those transiting from one age group to another at the sound of the Aba drums. Speaking on the festival also, Chairman Central Organising Committee, Obed Alli, explained that the festival was rated by energy giant, Total E&P in 2006, as the sixth most indigenous cultural festival in West Africa. According to him, 'The uniqueness and distinct appeal of Aba festival have earned it a prestigious place on the country’s festival league table, as corporate bodies, governments and individuals jostle to be a part of it and this year’s is no different." Little wonder the corporate world was not left out in the celebration as some of them like Guinness Nigeria Plc and Nigeria Brewery Plc, mounted musical stands and other variety of shows, ostensibly to sell their products. Other vendors from within and outside the state were not also left out as they cashed in on the celebration to make brisk business. For instance, all the hotels in and outside Igarra; from Auchi to Ibillo, Enwan, Ojirami Dam up to Dangbala and Ossoso ,were not only fully booked, but one way or the other, joined visitors to the rhythmic dance steps of Igarra people, their songs which the age-long sounds of the Aba drums symbolises.

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L-R Past President, Rotn Lanre Fasehun, Rotn Sola Akinsiku; Past Asst. Governor Rotn Akin Olawore And The Immediate Past President Rotn Olaitan Ojuroye At The Rotary Club Of Ikeja Golden Jubilee Anniversary Celebration Held At The Airport Hotel, Ikeja, Lagos State....Recently

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L-R; Awujale of Ijebuland, Oba Sikiru Kayode Adetona; Mr. Folu Aderibigbe of Globacom, and Olori Kemi Adetona, at the grand ďŹ nale of Ojude Oba Festival, sponsored by Globacom in Ijebu Ode, Ogun State.... recently

L-R: A customer, Sir Joe Anosikeh; Chief Executive, Stanbic IBTC Asset Management (SIAML), Bunmi DayoOlagunju; and Executive Director, SIAML, Babalola Obilana; during a Stanbic IBTC ClientsĂ­ Engagement Forum in Port Harcourt.. recently

L-R : Group Executive Director ,NIPCO Plc ,Alhaji Abdulkadir Aminu ;Group Managing Director ,NIPCO ,Venkataraman Venkatapathy ;Chairman , House Committee Petroleum Resources Downstream ,Comrade Joseph Akinlaja ;Managing Director ,NIPCO ,Sanjay Teotia and Hon. Onyererei Chukwudi during the legislators oversight visit to NIPCO in Lagos...recently

L-R: Secretary to Delta State Government, Mr. Festus Agas; Governor of Delta State, Dr. Ifeanyi Okowa; Executive Vice Chairman, Proton Energy, Mr. Oti Ikomi; and Project Manager, Proton Energy, Mr. Femi Adebule, at the Proton Energy meeting with the Governor for a 150mw power plant in Asaba. recently

L-R: Representative of Senate President, Alhaji Saka Onimago, Kwara State Governor, Dr. Abdulfatah Ahmed, Deputy Chairman, House of Reps. Committee on Army, Hon. Princess Olufunke Adedoyin and GOC 2 Division, Nigerian Army, Major General Chukwunedum Abraham during the commissioning of Olomu-AgoOru- Court road project in Omu Aran Irepodun LGA. Kwara State...recently

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Group Business Editor ChikaAmanze-Nwachuku Email: chika.amanzenwachukwu@thisdaylive.com 08033294157, 08057161321

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Quick Takes InďŹ nix Note 4, Note 4 Pro Launched

UNRAVELING THE HIDDEN TREASURE

L-R: Minister of Solid Minerals Development, Dr. Kayode Fayemi; Managing Director Bank of Industry (BOI), Mr. Olukayode Pitan and Minister of State for Solid Minerals, Abubakar Bawa Buari, during the signing of Memorandum of Understanding with the management of the Nigerian Artisans and Small-Scale Miners (ASM), Financing Support Fund, in Abuja...recently

Danbatta: Ubiquitous Broadband Will Enhance Socioeconomic Growth Stories by Emma Okonji The Executive Vice Chairman and Chief Executive of the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC), Prof. Umar Garba Danbatta has said that ubiquitous broadband spread across the country will boost socio-economic development and growth in the country. The NCC boss has also assured Nigerians of government’s efforts to surpass the 30 per cent broadband penetration target by 2018. Danbatta made the pledge sequel to doubts expressed by industry players that Nigeria may not achieve the broadband target by 2018. He cited poor implementation of the broadband plan, since its

ICT inception in 2013. The federal government, through the Ministry of Communications, had in 2013, released a five-year national broadband plan for Nigeria. The target was to achieve 30 per cent broadband penetration by 2018, with the intents and purposes to digitally empower Nigerians to have full benefits of eCommerce business by having access to the internet at the speed of light, and at relatively low cost. While most Nigerians are indifferent about broadband accessibility, cost and speed, Danbatta insisted that government has done so much to boost broadband penetration

in Nigeria, adding that further efforts from government would lead to ubiquitous broadband access across the country, which he said, the country needed to enhance her socio-economic development and broadband roadmap. Highlighting the Commissions’ programme towards broadband penetration achievement, at a recent technology event in Lagos, Danbatta said: “Broadband has become a key priority of the 21st Century, and its life-changing capability for enabling socio-economic growth makes it an essential tool for empowering people, creating an environment that nurtures technology and service innovations, which triggers positive change in general business

processes. “It is believed that increased adoption and use of broadband in the next decade and beyond will be driven by the extent to which broadband-supported services and applications are not only made available to, but are also relevant and affordable for consumers. “Consequently, the Nigerian Communications Commission made broadband penetration the flagship of its 8-Point Agenda. The International Telecommunications Union (ITU), and UNESCSO had since 2010, established the Broadband Commission whose reports have shown that broadband access in every country is key Continued on page 24

Trade Report Identifies Online Tool As Catalyst for SME Business To help businesses succeed in the new mobile economy, business owners need to understand their current environment, and take full advantage of the available online tools to excel. This was the view of the ‘Future of Business Survey’, a unique window into the new digital and mobile economy, created by the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD), FaceBook and the World Bank, for international trade reporting. In September 2016, the OECD, World Bank, and Facebook collaborated to launch the ‘Future of Business Survey’, a new source of information on small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs).

IT Having operated for one year, the group, this week, released its latest report from the investigation carried out to determine how online tools play a role in SMEs’ ability to trade internationally and, consequently, to grow. To respond to these issues, the group added a new module to the Future of Business Survey over the period March-May 2017, from which they obtained responses from 49,081 SMEs globally. Analysing the key findings of the report, the group said, consistent with past results, SMEs that trade internationally are more confident and more

likely to increase jobs. The report also revealed that most SMEs, who export goods and services, rely on online tools to trade internationally. Nearly half of exporting SMEs, about 45 per cent report that more than 75 per cent of their international sales depend on online tools. SMEs attribute growth in revenue, resources, and employees to their use of online tools to trade internationally, since about 58 per cent of exporters agree that using online tools for selling internationally has increased their revenue. The survey however discovered that International trade is a challenge to SMEs, and only a minority of SMEs trade

internationally. Almost half of exporters, about 48 per cent identified “selling to foreign countries� as a challenge, the report said. The Future of Business Survey is a collaboration between Facebook, the OECD and the World Bank to provide monthly data on the perceptions, challenges, and outlook of online Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs). The survey includes questions about perceptions of current and future economic activity, challenges, business characteristics and strategy. The target population consists of the 60 million SMEs that have an active Continued on page 24

Ă˜Ę¨Ă˜Ă“Ă˘ Ă’Ă‹Ă? Ă‹Ă˜Ă˜Ă™Ă&#x;Ă˜Ă?Ă?ĂŽ ÞÒĂ? Ă–Ă‹Ă&#x;Ă˜Ă?Ă’ Ă™Ă? Ă“ĂžĂ? Ă˜Ă?ĂĄ ÙÞĂ? Ă?Ă?ĂœĂ“Ă?Ă? Ă?Ă—Ă‹ĂœĂžĂšĂ’Ă™Ă˜Ă? ËŠ Ă˜Ę¨Ă˜Ă“Ă˘ ÙÞĂ? Ͳ Ă‹Ă˜ĂŽ ÙÞĂ? Ͳ ĂœĂ™ åÓÞÒ Ă‹ Ă?ÞãÖĂ&#x;Ă? ËŠ ĂšĂ?Ă˜Ë›ËŞ Ă’Ă? Ă–Ă‹ĂžĂ?Ă?Ăž ĂŽĂ?Ă Ă“Ă?Ă? Ă?ĂœĂ™Ă— Ă˜Ę¨Ă˜Ă“Ă˘ Ă“Ă? ÞÒĂ? Ă—Ă™Ă?Ăž Ă‹Ă˜ĂžĂ“Ă?ÓÚËÞĂ?ĂŽ Ă?Ă—Ă‹ĂœĂžĂšĂ’Ă™Ă˜Ă? ĂŁĂ?Ăž ÞÙ ĂŒĂ? ĂœĂ?Ă–Ă?Ă‹Ă?Ă?ĂŽ ÞÒÓĂ? ĂŁĂ?Ă‹Ăœ Ă‹Ă˜ĂŽ Ă“Ăž Ă“Ă? ÞÒĂ?Ă—Ă?ĂŽ ËŠÍł Ă—Ă“Ă˜Ă&#x;ĂžĂ?Ă? Ă?Ă’Ă‹ĂœĂ‘Ă? Ͱͳ͎ Ă—Ă“Ă˜Ă&#x;ĂžĂ?Ă? ÞËÖÕ˪ Ă? ÞÒĂ? ÙÞĂ? Ă?Ă?ĂœĂ“Ă?Ă? ĂœĂ?Ă—Ă‹Ă“Ă˜Ă? Ă‹ Ă‘Ă‹Ă—Ă? Ă?Ă’Ă‹Ă˜Ă‘Ă?Ăœ Ă“Ă˜ Ă“ĂžĂ? ĂšĂœĂ™ĂŽĂ&#x;Ă?Ăž Ă—Ă‹ĂœĂ•Ă?ĂžËœ ÞÒĂ? Ă˜Ă?ĂĄ ÙÞĂ? Ͳ Ă?Ù×Ă?Ă? åÓÞÒ ÞÒĂ? Ă?ÞãÖÓĂ?Ă’ Ă?ÞãÖĂ&#x;Ă? ËŠ ĂšĂ?Ă˜ËŞË› Ă’Ă? ĂšĂ?Ă˜ ÙʼĂ?ĂœĂ? Ă‘ĂœĂ?Ă‹Ăž Ă?Ă&#x;Ă˜Ă?ĂžĂ“Ă™Ă˜Ă‹Ă–Ă“ĂžĂŁ Ă?Ă™Ăœ Ă˜Ę¨Ă˜Ă“Ă˘ ÙÞĂ? Ă&#x;Ă?Ă?ĂœĂ?Ëœ Ă“Ăž ËÖÖÙåĂ? Ă“Ăž Ă&#x;Ă?Ă?ĂœĂ? ÞÙ ÞËÕĂ? ĂŽĂ™ĂĄĂ˜ Ă˜Ă™ĂžĂ?Ă?Ëœ Ă?ĂœĂ?Ă‹ĂžĂ? Ă?Ă’Ă™ĂœĂžĂ?Ă&#x;ĂžĂ? Ă‹Ă˜ĂŽ Ă‹Ă–Ă?Ă™ Ă?Ă•Ă?ĂžĂ?Ă’ Ă?Ă‹Ă?Ă“Ă–ĂŁ Ă™Ă˜ ÞÒĂ? Ă˜Ă™ĂžĂ? Ă&#x;Ă?Ă“Ă˜Ă‘ ÞÒĂ? ĂšĂ?Ă˜Ë›

Ă˜Ę¨Ă˜Ă“Ă˘ Ă“Ă˜ĂžĂ?Ă‘ĂœĂ‹ĂžĂ?ĂŽ ÙÞÒĂ?Ăœ ĂžĂ?Ă?Ă’Ă˜Ă™Ă–Ă™Ă‘ĂŁ Ă“Ă˜Ă˜Ă™Ă Ă‹ĂžĂ“Ă™Ă˜ Ă“Ă˜ ÞÒĂ? Ă˜Ă?ĂĄ ÙÞĂ? Ă?Ă—Ă‹ĂœĂžĂšĂ’Ă™Ă˜Ă?Ëœ Ă“Ăž Ă“Ă? ĂšĂœĂ?̋ÚËĂ?Ă•Ă?ĂŽ åÓÞÒ Ă?Ă’Ă‹ĂœĂ‘Ă? Ͳ˛͎ ĂĄĂ’Ă“Ă?Ă’ ĂšĂœĂ™Ă Ă“ĂŽĂ?Ă? ÞÒĂ? Ă›Ă&#x;Ă“Ă?Ă•Ă?Ă?Ăž Ă?Ă’Ă‹ĂœĂ‘Ă? åÓÞÒ ÖÙå à ÙÖÞËÑĂ? Ă‹Ă˜ĂŽ Ă’Ă“Ă‘Ă’ Ă?ĘŠĂ?Ă“Ă?Ă˜Ă?ĂŁËœ Ă?Ă›Ă&#x;ÓÚÚĂ?ĂŽ åÓÞÒ ĂŒĂ“Ă‘ ĂŒĂ‹ĘľĂ?ĂœĂŁ Ă–Ă“Ă?Ă? Ă™Ă? Ͳ͹͎͎ ĚŽ Ͳͳ͎͎ Ë› Ă’Ă?Ă?Ă? Ă?Ă?Ă‹ĂžĂ&#x;ĂœĂ?Ă? ËÖÖÙå ÞÒĂ? ÙÞĂ? Ͳ ÞÙ Ă?Ă’Ă‹ĂœĂ‘Ă? Ă?Ă‹Ă?Ăž ĂĄĂ“ĂžĂ’Ă“Ă˜ Íł Ă—Ă“Ă˜Ă&#x;ĂžĂ?Ă? ÞÙ ÞËÖÕ Ă?Ă™Ăœ Ͱͳ͎ Ă—Ă“Ă˜Ă&#x;ĂžĂ?Ă?Ë› Ă’Ă? Ă˜Ę¨Ă˜Ă“Ă˘ ÙÞĂ? Ͳ Ă‹Ă˜ĂŽ ÙÞĂ? Ͳ Ă“Ă? Ă‹Ă–Ă?Ă™ ÞÒĂ? Ę¨ĂœĂ?Ăž Ă˜Ę¨Ă˜Ă“Ă˘ Ă?Ă—Ă‹ĂœĂžĂšĂ’Ă™Ă˜Ă? ÞÙ ĂŒĂ? ĂšĂœĂ?̋ÚËĂ?Ă•Ă?ĂŽ åÓÞÒ ÞÒĂ? Ă–Ă‹ĂžĂ?Ă?Ăž Ă˜ĂŽĂœĂ™Ă“ĂŽ ;˛͎ Ă“Ă˜Ă?Ă&#x;Ă?Ă?ĂŽ åÓÞÒ ÞÒĂ?

Ă˜Ę¨Ă˜Ă“Ă˘ ËŠ Ͱ˛͹˪˛ Ă’Ă? ÙÞĂ? Ͳ Ă‹Ă–Ă?Ă™ Ă?Ù×Ă?Ă? åÓÞÒ ÙÞÒĂ?Ăœ Ă™Ă&#x;ĂžĂ?ĂžĂ‹Ă˜ĂŽĂ“Ă˜Ă‘ Ă?Ă?Ă‹ĂžĂ&#x;ĂœĂ?Ă? Ă?Ă&#x;Ă?Ă’ Ă‹Ă? ͳ˛; Ă?Ă?ĂœĂ?Ă?Ă˜Ëœ ÍŻÍą ĂŒĂ‹Ă?Ă• Ă?Ă‹Ă—Ă?ĂœĂ‹ åÓÞÒ ĂŽĂ&#x;Ă‹Ă– Ă?Ă™Ă–Ă™Ăœ Ă–Ă‹Ă?Ă’Ëœ Íś Ě‹Ă—Ă?Ă‘Ă‹ ÚÓâĂ?Ă–Ă? Ă?ĂœĂ™Ă˜Ăž Ă?Ă‹Ă—Ă?ĂœĂ‹Ëœ Ă?ÞË̋Ă?Ă™ĂœĂ? ͯ˛͹ ä Í´Í˛ĂŒĂ“ĂžĂ? ĂšĂœĂ™Ă?Ă?Ă?Ă?Ă™ĂœËœ Ă“Ă˜Ă‘Ă?ĂœĂšĂœĂ“Ă˜Ăž ĂœĂ?Ă?Ă™Ă‘Ă˜Ă“ĂžĂ“Ă™Ă˜Ëœ Ͱ˛ͳ Ă™Ă&#x;Ă?Ă’ ĂšĂ‹Ă˜Ă?Ă–Ëœ ÍŻÍ´ Ęś ͹Ͱ Ëœ åÓÞÒ Ă?Ă˘ĂšĂ‹Ă˜ĂŽĂ‹ĂŒĂ–Ă? Ă?ĂžĂ™ĂœĂ‹Ă‘Ă? Ă?ÚËĂ?Ă? ÞÙ ÍŻÍ°ÍśĂ‘ĂŒ Ă‹Ă˜ĂŽ Íą Ë› ÙÞÒ ĂŽĂ?Ă Ă“Ă?Ă?Ă? Ă‹ĂœĂ? Ͳ Ă?Ă˜Ă‹ĂŒĂ–Ă?ĂŽËœ Ă‹Ă?Ă?Ă™ĂœĂŽĂ“Ă˜Ă‘ ÞÙ ÞÒĂ? Ă—Ă™ĂŒĂ“Ă–Ă? ĂšĂ’Ă™Ă˜Ă? Ă?Ă™Ă—ĂšĂ‹Ă˜ĂŁË›

VISA Appoints New GM for W/Africa Ă–Ă™ĂŒĂ‹Ă– ÚËã×Ă?Ă˜ĂžĂ? Ă?Ă™Ă—ĂšĂ‹Ă˜ĂŁ Ă“Ă?Ă‹ Ă˜Ă?˛˜ Ă’Ă‹Ă? Ă‹ĂšĂšĂ™Ă“Ă˜ĂžĂ?ĂŽ Ă–Ă&#x;ĂĄĂ‹Ă•Ă?Ă—Ă“ Ă•Ă&#x;Ă˜Ă?Ă‹Ă˜ĂŁĂ‹ Ă‹Ă? ÞÒĂ? Ă˜Ă?ĂĄ Ă?Ă˜Ă?ĂœĂ‹Ă– Ă‹Ă˜Ă‹Ă‘Ă?Ăœ Ă?Ă™Ăœ Ă?Ă?Ăž Ă?ĂœĂ“Ă?Ă‹Ëœ Ă?ĘĽĂ?Ă?ÞÓà Ă? Ă?ÚÞĂ?Ă—ĂŒĂ?Ăœ ÍŻËœ Ͱ͎ͯ;˛ Ă–Ă&#x;ĂĄĂ‹Ă•Ă?Ă—Ă“ Ă”Ă™Ă“Ă˜Ă? Ă“Ă?Ă‹ Ă?ĂœĂ™Ă— Ă™Ă˜Ă?ĂŁ ĂœĂ‹Ă—

Ă˜ĂžĂ?ĂœĂ˜Ă‹ĂžĂ“Ă™Ă˜Ă‹Ă–Ëœ ĂĄĂ’Ă?ĂœĂ? Ă?Ă’Ă? ĂĄĂ‹Ă? Ă?Ă‹ĂŽ Ă™Ă? Ă˜Ă‘Ă–Ă™ĂšĂ’Ă™Ă˜Ă? Ă?ĂœĂ“Ă?Ă‹Ë›

Ă˜ Ă’Ă?Ăœ ĂœĂ™Ă–Ă?Ëœ Ă–Ă&#x;ĂĄĂ‹Ă•Ă?Ă—Ă“ ĂĄĂ“Ă–Ă– Ă–Ă?Ă‹ĂŽ ÞÒĂ? ĂžĂ?Ă‹Ă— ĂŒĂ‹Ă?Ă?ĂŽ Ă“Ă˜ Ă‹Ă‘Ă™Ă? ÞÙ ĂŽĂœĂ“Ă Ă? Ă?Ă™ĂœĂ? ĂŒĂ&#x;Ă?Ă“Ă˜Ă?Ă?Ă? Ă‘ĂœĂ™ĂĄĂžĂ’ Ă“Ă˜ Ă“Ă‘Ă?ĂœĂ“Ă‹Ëœ Ă‹Ă—ĂŒĂ“Ă‹Ëœ Ă’Ă‹Ă˜Ă‹Ëœ Ă“ĂŒĂ?ĂœĂ“Ă‹ Ă‹Ă˜ĂŽ Ă“Ă?ĂœĂœĂ‹ Ă?Ă™Ă˜Ă?Ë› Ă’Ă? ĂĄĂ“Ă–Ă– ĂŒĂ? ĂœĂ?Ă?ĂšĂ™Ă˜Ă?Ă“ĂŒĂ–Ă? Ă?Ă™Ăœ Ùà Ă?ĂœĂ‹Ă–Ă– Ă?ĂžĂœĂ‹ĂžĂ?Ă‘ĂŁ Ă“Ă˜ ÞÒĂ? ĂœĂ?Ă‘Ă“Ă™Ă˜Ëœ Ă“Ă˜Ă?Ă–Ă&#x;ĂŽĂ“Ă˜Ă‘ ĂŒĂ&#x;Ă“Ă–ĂŽĂ“Ă˜Ă‘ Ă–Ă™Ă˜Ă‘Ě‹ĂžĂ?ĂœĂ— ĂœĂ?Ă–Ă‹ĂžĂ“Ă™Ă˜Ă?Ă’Ă“ĂšĂ? åÓÞÒ Ă?Ă–Ă“Ă?Ă˜ĂžĂ?Ëœ ĂœĂ?Ă‘Ă&#x;Ă–Ă‹ĂžĂ™ĂœĂ? Ă‹Ă˜ĂŽ ÙÞÒĂ?Ăœ Ă•Ă?ĂŁ Ă?ÞËÕĂ?ÒÙÖÎĂ?ĂœĂ? ÞÙ ĂŽĂœĂ“Ă Ă? ÞÒĂ? Ă‹ĂŽĂ™ĂšĂžĂ“Ă™Ă˜ Ă™Ă? Ă?Ă‹Ă?Ă’Ă–Ă?Ă?Ă? ÚËã×Ă?Ă˜ĂžĂ?Ë› ĂšĂ?Ă‹Ă•Ă“Ă˜Ă‘ Ă‹ĂŒĂ™Ă&#x;Ăž ÞÒĂ? Ă‹ĂšĂšĂ™Ă“Ă˜ĂžĂ—Ă?Ă˜ĂžËœ ĂœĂ?Ă?Ă“ĂŽĂ?Ă˜ĂžËœ Ă“Ă?Ă‹ Ă?Ă&#x;ĂŒĚ‹ Ă‹Ă’Ă‹ĂœĂ‹Ă˜ Ă?ĂœĂ“Ă?Ă‹Ëœ Ă˜ĂŽĂœĂ?ĂĄ Ă™ĂœĂœĂ?Ëœ Ă?Ă‹Ă“ĂŽËœ ËŤ Ă? Ă‹ĂœĂ? Ă?âĂ?Ă“ĂžĂ?ĂŽ ÞÙ ĂĄĂ?Ă–Ă?Ù×Ă? Ă–Ă&#x;ĂĄĂ‹Ă•Ă?Ă—Ă“ ÞÙ ÞÒĂ? Ă“Ă?Ă‹ ĂžĂ?Ă‹Ă—Ë› Ă’Ă? Ă“Ă? Ă‹ Ă–Ă™Ă?Ă‹Ă– Ă—Ă‹Ă˜Ă‹Ă‘Ă?Ăœ åÓÞÒ Ă‹ ĂšĂœĂ™Ă Ă?Ă˜ ĂœĂ?Ă?Ă™ĂœĂŽ Ă™Ă? Ă?Ă&#x;Ă?Ă?Ă?Ă?Ă? ĂĄĂ™ĂœĂ•Ă“Ă˜Ă‘ åÓÞÒ Ă‹ ĂŒĂœĂ™Ă‹ĂŽ ĂœĂ‹Ă˜Ă‘Ă? Ă™Ă? Ă?ÞËÕĂ?ÒÙÖÎĂ?ĂœĂ? Ă“Ă˜ ÞÒĂ? Ę¨Ă˜Ă‹Ă˜Ă?Ă“Ă‹Ă– Ă?Ă?ĂœĂ Ă“Ă?Ă?Ă? Ă“Ă˜ĂŽĂ&#x;Ă?ĂžĂœĂŁËœ Ă“Ă˜Ă?Ă–Ă&#x;ĂŽĂ“Ă˜Ă‘ åÓÞÒ ĂœĂ?Ă‘Ă&#x;Ă–Ă‹ĂžĂ™ĂœĂ? Ă‹Ă˜ĂŽ Ę¨Ă˜Ă‹Ă˜Ă?Ă“Ă‹Ă– Ă“Ă˜Ă?ÞÓÞĂ&#x;ĂžĂ“Ă™Ă˜Ă?Ë› Ă’Ă? Ă“Ă? Ă‹Ă–Ă?Ă™ Ă‹ Ă?ĂžĂœĂ™Ă˜Ă‘ Ă‹Ă˜ĂŽ Ă?Ă&#x;Ă?Ă?Ă?Ă?Ă?Ă?Ă&#x;Ă– ĂšĂ?ÙÚÖĂ? Ă–Ă?Ă‹ĂŽĂ?ĂœË› Ă“Ă‘Ă?ĂœĂ“Ă‹ Ă“Ă? Ă™Ă˜Ă? Ă™Ă? ÞÒĂ? Ă—Ă™Ă?Ăž Ă?Ă˜ĂžĂ’Ă&#x;Ă?Ă“Ă‹Ă?ÞÓĂ? Ă‹Ă˜ĂŽ Ă?Ă&#x;Ă?Ă?Ă?Ă?Ă?Ă?Ă&#x;Ă– ËÎÙÚÞĂ?ĂœĂ? Ă™Ă? ĂžĂ?Ă?Ă’Ă˜Ă™Ă–Ă™Ă‘ĂŁ Ă“Ă˜ Ă?ĂœĂ“Ă?Ă‹Ëœ ĂšĂœĂ?Ă?Ă?Ă˜ĂžĂ“Ă˜Ă‘ Ă’Ă&#x;Ă‘Ă? Ă™ĂšĂšĂ™ĂœĂžĂ&#x;Ă˜Ă“ĂžĂ“Ă?Ă? Ă?Ă™Ăœ Ă&#x;Ă? ÞÙ ÎÓÑÓÞÓäĂ? Ă?Ù××Ă?ĂœĂ?Ă? Ă‹Ă˜ĂŽ Ă?Ă™Ă˜Ă˜Ă?Ă?Ăž Ă—Ă“Ă–Ă–Ă“Ă™Ă˜Ă? Ă—Ă™ĂœĂ? ĂšĂ?ÙÚÖĂ? ÞÙ ÞÒĂ? Ă‘Ă–Ă™ĂŒĂ‹Ă– Ă?Ă?Ă™Ă˜Ă™Ă—ĂŁË›ËŹ ĂœĂ“Ă™Ăœ ÞÙ Ă’Ă?Ăœ Ă–Ă?Ă‹ĂŽĂ?ĂœĂ?Ă’Ă“Ăš ĂœĂ™Ă–Ă? Ă‹Ăž Ă™Ă˜Ă?ĂŁ ĂœĂ‹Ă—Ëœ Ă?Ă’Ă? Ă’Ă‹ĂŽ Ă‹ ĂžĂ?Ă˜Ě‹ĂŁĂ?Ă‹Ăœ Ă?ĂžĂ“Ă˜Ăž åÓÞÒ Ă?Ă˜Ă“ĂžĂ’ Ă‹Ă˜Ă•Ëœ ĂĄĂ’Ă?ĂœĂ? Ă’Ă?Ăœ ĂœĂ?Ă?ĂšĂ™Ă˜Ă?Ă“ĂŒĂ“Ă–Ă“ĂžĂ“Ă?Ă? Ă?ĂšĂ‹Ă˜Ă˜Ă?ĂŽ Ă?Ă‹Ă–Ă?Ă? Ă‹Ă˜ĂŽ Ă—Ă‹ĂœĂ•Ă?ĂžĂ“Ă˜Ă‘ Ă?ĂžĂœĂ‹ĂžĂ?Ă‘ĂŁËœ Ă‹Ă? ĂĄĂ?Ă–Ă– Ă‹Ă? Ă—Ă‹Ă˜Ă‹Ă‘Ă?Ă—Ă?Ă˜Ăž Ă™Ă? ÞÒĂ? ĂŒĂœĂ‹Ă˜Ă?Ă’ Ă–Ă“Ă‹ĂŒĂ“Ă–Ă“ĂžĂŁ Ă‹Ă˜ĂŽ Ă‹Ă?Ă?Ă?Ăž ĂšĂ™ĂœĂžĂ?ÙÖÓÙĂ?Ë›

Chi Introduces New Product Ă’Ă“ Ă“Ă—Ă“ĂžĂ?ĂŽ Ă’Ă‹Ă? Ă“Ă˜ĂžĂœĂ™ĂŽĂ&#x;Ă?Ă?ĂŽ Ă‹ Ă˜Ă?ĂĄ ĂšĂœĂ™ĂŽĂ&#x;Ă?Ăž Ě‹ Ă™Ă–Ă–Ă‹Ă˜ĂŽĂ“Ă‹ Ă’Ă™Ă?Ă™ Ă‹Ă–Ăž ĂœĂ“Ă˜Ă•Ëœ ÞËÑÑĂ?ĂŽ ËŤÍąĚ‹Ă“Ă˜Ě‹ ÍŻ Ă™Ë ËŹ ÞÙ ÞÒĂ? ĂŁĂ™Ă&#x;ÞÒ Ă?Ă™Ă˜Ă?Ă&#x;Ă—Ă?Ăœ Ă?Ă?Ă‘Ă—Ă?Ă˜Ăž Ă™Ă? ÞÒĂ? Ă—Ă‹ĂœĂ•Ă?Þ˛ Ă?ÞËÞĂ?Ă—Ă?Ă˜Ăž Ă“Ă?Ă?Ă&#x;Ă?ĂŽ ĂŒĂŁ ÞÒĂ? Ă?Ă™Ă—ĂšĂ‹Ă˜ĂŁ Ă?ÞËÞĂ?ĂŽ ÞÒËÞ ÞÒĂ? Ă˜Ă?ĂĄ ĂšĂœĂ™ĂŽĂ&#x;Ă?Ăž Ă“Ă? Ă‹Ă˜ Ă“Ă˜Ă˜Ă™Ă Ă‹ĂžĂ“Ă Ă? ĂšĂœĂ™ĂŽĂ&#x;Ă?Ăž ÞÒËÞ Ă?Ă™Ă—ĂŒĂ“Ă˜Ă?Ă? Ă?Ă’Ă™Ă?ÙÖËÞĂ?Ëœ Ă—Ă“Ă–Ă• Ă‹Ă˜ĂŽ Ă—Ă‹Ă–Ăž Ă“Ă˜ ĂžĂœĂ?Ă˜ĂŽĂŁ ÚËĂ?Ă• Ă?ÓäĂ?Ă?Ë› Ă?Ă?Ă™ĂœĂŽĂ“Ă˜Ă‘ ÞÙ ÞÒĂ? Ă?ÞËÞĂ?Ă—Ă?Ă˜ĂžËœ Ă“Ăž Ă?Ă‹Ă˜ ĂŒĂ? Ă?Ă™Ă˜Ă?Ă&#x;Ă—Ă?ĂŽ Ă“Ă—Ă—Ă?ĂŽĂ“Ă‹ĂžĂ?Ă–ĂŁ Ă‹Ę°Ă?Ăœ ÙÚĂ?Ă˜Ă“Ă˜Ă‘ Ă‹Ă˜ĂŽ ĂŽĂ?Ă–Ă“Ă Ă?ĂœĂ? Ă“Ă˜Ă?ĂžĂ‹Ă˜Ăž Ă™Ăœ Ă?Ă’Ă‹ĂœĂš Ă˜Ă&#x;ĂžĂœĂ“ĂžĂ“Ă™Ă˜ ÞÙ Ă?Ă™Ă˜Ă?Ă&#x;Ă—Ă?ĂœĂ?Ë› Ă’Ă? ĂšĂœĂ™ĂŽĂ&#x;Ă?Ăž ĂĄĂ‹Ă? Ă?Ă‹Ă“ĂŽ ÞÙ ĂŒĂ? Ă‹Ă? Ă‹ ĂœĂ?Ă?Ă&#x;Ă–Ăž Ă™Ă? ÞÒĂ? ĂŒĂœĂ‹Ă˜ĂŽËŞĂ? Ă?Ă™Ă˜ĂžĂ“Ă˜Ă&#x;Ă?ĂŽ ĂœĂ?Ă?ÙÖà Ă? ÞÙ ĂšĂœĂ™Ă Ă“ĂŽĂ? Ă?Ă™Ă˜Ă?Ă&#x;Ă—Ă?Ăœ Ă?ËÞÓĂ?Ă?Ă‹Ă?ĂžĂ“Ă™Ă˜Ëœ ĂŒĂŁ ÙʼĂ?ĂœĂ“Ă˜Ă‘ Ă?Ă&#x;ĂšĂ?ĂœĂ“Ă™Ăœ ĂšĂœĂ™ĂŽĂ&#x;Ă?Ăž Ă Ă‹Ă–Ă&#x;Ă? ÞÒËÞ Ă‹ĂŽĂŽĂœĂ?Ă?Ă?Ă?Ă? Ă?Ă™Ă˜Ă?Ă&#x;Ă—Ă?Ăœ Ă˜Ă?Ă?ĂŽĂ? Ă“Ă˜ ĂžĂ&#x;Ă˜Ă? åÓÞÒ Ă?Ă’Ă‹Ă˜Ă‘Ă“Ă˜Ă‘ ĂžĂœĂ?Ă˜ĂŽĂ?Ë› ËŠËŞ Ă™Ă–Ă–Ă‹Ă˜ĂŽĂ“Ă‹ Ă’Ă™Ă?Ă™ Ă‹Ă–Ăž ĂœĂ“Ă˜Ă• Ă“Ă? ĂœĂ“Ă?Ă’ Ă“Ă˜ Ă Ă“ĂžĂ‹Ă—Ă“Ă˜Ă? Ă‹Ă˜ĂŽ Ă—Ă“Ă˜Ă?ĂœĂ‹Ă–Ă?Ëœ ÞËÕĂ?Ă? Ă‹ĂĄĂ‹ĂŁ ÞÒĂ? Ă’Ă‹Ă?Ă?Ă–Ă?Ă? Ă‹Ă˜ĂŽ Ă“Ă˜Ă?Ă™Ă˜Ă Ă?Ă˜Ă“Ă?Ă˜Ă?Ă? Ă“Ă˜Ă Ă™Ă–Ă Ă?ĂŽ Ă“Ă˜ ĂšĂœĂ?ĂšĂ‹ĂœĂ“Ă˜Ă‘ Ă’Ă™Ă?Ă™Ě‹ĂŒĂ‹Ă?Ă?ĂŽ ĂŒĂ?Ă Ă?ĂœĂ‹Ă‘Ă? ĂŽĂœĂ“Ă˜Ă• ÞÒĂ? ĂžĂœĂ‹ĂŽĂ“ĂžĂ“Ă™Ă˜Ă‹Ă– ĂĄĂ‹ĂŁË› Ă?Ă“ĂŽĂ?Ă? ÞÒĂ? Ă?Ă™Ă˜Ă Ă?Ă˜Ă“Ă?Ă˜Ă?Ă?Ëœ Ă“Ăž Ă“Ă? Ă‹ Ă‘ĂœĂ?Ă‹ĂžËœ Ă?ËÞÓĂ?Ă?ĂŁĂ“Ă˜Ă‘ Ă‹Ă˜ĂŽ Ă?Ă&#x;Ă˜Ă?ĂžĂ“Ă™Ă˜Ă‹Ă– ĂŒĂ?Ă Ă?ĂœĂ‹Ă‘Ă? ÞÒËÞ Ă?Ă‹Ă˜ ĂŒĂ? Ă?Ă™Ă˜Ă?Ă&#x;Ă—Ă?ĂŽ Ă‹Ăž Ă‹Ă˜ĂŁ ÞÓ×Ă?Ë›

“Cybersecurity is more than a challenge for government as it poses a huge obstacle to our digital transformation/digital Nigeria agenda�

Minister of Communications, Adebayo Shittu

24

T H I S D AY Ëž Ëœ Íľ Í°ÍŽÍŻÍľ

DANBATTA: UBIQUITOUS BROADBAND WILL ENHANCE SOCIOECONOMIC GROWTH

MAN Backs Introduction of Product Authentication Scheme

to any development agenda. Our agenda aligns with the importance accorded to broadband across the world.� Broadband is a catalyst for social and economic transformation in this era of Information and Communications Technology (ICT). Nigerian’s target for broadband penetration by 2018 is 30 per cent, and the Commission recognises its prime responsibility in the actualisation of the national broadband plan target, Danbatta added. He stressed that while the broadband penetration is estimated at 21 per cent, the Commission is convinced of surpassing the 30 per cent broadband penetration by 2018, through various measures put in place such as: development of regulatory framework for broadband penetration; setting up of broadband implementation monitoring committee; issuance of wireless broadband license; and enabling more wireless broadband frequency and services on offer.

The Manufacturers Association of Nigeria (MAN) has thrown its weight behind the Standards Organisation of Nigeria (SON)’s plan to introduce a product authentication scheme, describing it as being in the collective interest of manufacturers and consumers alike. President of MAN, Chief Franks Jacobs gave the assurance during a consultative meeting with the Director General of SON, Mr. Osita Aboloma in Lagos. According to the MAN President, the introduction of such scheme to assure the quality of products on offer to consumers in Nigeria was long overdue given the negative economic effect of faking, cloning and counterfeiting, particularly on certified local products. Chief Jacobs decried the situation where a product is supposedly doing so well in the market without its manufacturer reaping the benefits of his investment due to faking, cloning and counterfeiting, while consumers also get short changed in the process. The MAN President acknowledged the huge responsibility that the mandate of SON confer on the organisation, particularly the need to assist local manufacturers excel on a continual basis, in order to grow the Nation’s economy and provide gainful employment to its teeming youths. He alluded to the need for all relevant agencies of government to harmonise their activities at the country’s entry points in order to effectively fight the influx of substandard products into Nigeria. Jacobs stressed that the con-

TRADE REPORT IDENTIFIES ONLINE TOOL AS CATALYST FOR SME BUSINESS Facebook business page and includes both newer and longer-standing businesses, spanning a variety of sectors. A random sample of firms, representing the target population in each country, Nigeria inclusive, is selected to respond to the Future of Business Survey each month. With more businesses using online tools each day, the survey provides a lens into a new digital economy and, in particular, insights on business owners, in relation to considerable policy interest. When the survey was initially launched in February 2016, it included 22 countries, but today, it includes 42. The 42 Future of Business countries now represent economies accounting for 40 per cent of the world’s population and 73 per cent of global GDP.

Group Business Editor

Ă’Ă“Ă•Ă‹ Ă—Ă‹Ă˜Ă¤Ă?Ě‹ ĂĄĂ‹Ă?Ă’Ă&#x;Ă•Ă&#x; AgriBusiness/Industry Editor

Ă™Ă˜Ă‹ĂžĂ’Ă‹Ă˜ äĂ? Comms/e-Business Editor

Ă—Ă—Ă‹ Ă•Ă™Ă˜Ă”Ă“ Capital Market Editor

ÙÎÎã Ă‘Ă?Ă˜Ă? Senior Correspondent

Ă‹Ă’Ă?Ă?Ă— Ă•Ă“Ă˜Ă‘ĂŒĂ™Ă–Ă&#x; (Advertising) Correspondents

Ă’Ă“Ă˜Ă?ĂŽĂ&#x; äĂ? (Aviation) Ă“Ă˜ĂŽĂ‹ ĂœĂ™Ă•Ă? (Labour) ĂœĂ™Ă—Ă™Ă?Ă?Ă–Ă? ĂŒĂ“Ă™ĂŽĂ&#x;Ă˜ (Maritime) ÔÓÙĂ?Ă™Ăœ Ă–Ă“Ă•Ă? (Energy) Ă‹Ă—Ă?Ă? Ă—Ă?ÔÙ (Nation’s Capital) ĂŒĂ“Ă˜Ă˜Ă‹ Ă’Ă“Ă—Ă‹ (Money Mkt) Ă’Ă“Ă˜Ă?Ă—Ă? Ă•Ă‹Ă?Ă™Ăœ (Energy) Reporters

Ă&#x;Ă—Ă? Ă•Ă?Ă‘Ă’Ă? (Money Market) Ă™Ă?Ă‹ Ă–Ă?Ă•Ă’Ă&#x;ÙÑÓĂ? (Cap Mkt)

Jonathan Eze

tinuous influx of substandard products into the country is negatively affecting MAN members in particular. This according to him, underscored the need for SON’s active involvement in the execution of the recent Presidential Executive Orders, to assure the quality of all imports into Nigeria. Also speaking at the occasion, MAN Director General, Mr. Segun Ajayi, said the association’s members across the nation look up to SON for the provision of relevant and up to date standards. According to him, availing

the expertise of SON personnel to Nigerian Manufacturers will ensure continual improvement in the competitiveness of their products for local consumption and export. He commended the existing robust collaboration between the two organisations which according to him, has always provided avenues for clarifying issues of mutual concern. Speaking earlier, Aboloma, described MAN members as strategic stakeholders in standardisation and quality assurance in Nigeria, which he said, necessitated the

consultative meeting at SON instance. He disclosed that a products authentication scheme is soon to be introduced to assist consumers confirm the genuineness of products before purchase and thus have value for their money. Other advantages of the scheme according to him will include assurance to genuine manufacturers and importers of their products on sale in the Nigerian market. The SON DG stated that the product authentication scheme will effectively fight the cloning, faking and counterfeiting of

genuine products by providing necessary information to guide consumers’ purchase decisions in the market. “Without patronage, the purveyors of substandard, faked, cloned and counterfeited products would have no market for their products� he said Aboloma stated that the organisation has engaged the services of an internationally renowned security printing outfit on the implementation of the scheme, leveraging on their vast experience in implementing similar programs successfully in many other countries.

COURTESY VISIT

Nigeria Social Insurance Trust Fund (NSITF), Risk Managers Association of Nigeria (RIMAN) member, Jumai Adinoyi-Samson; CRO Coronation Merchant Bank & RIMAN Council Member, Magnus Nnoka; RIMAN Board Chairman & Director of Risk Management, CBN, Ms. Folakemi Fatogbe; DG Securities and Exchange Commission, Mr. Mouinir H. Gwarzo; RIMAN Board Member & Director OFISD, CBN, Mrs. Tokunbo Martins; Executive Secretary RIMAN, Victor Olannye; CRO SEC, Okey Umeano; and Acting Board Secretary, SEC, Mr. R C. Karawusa, during a courtesy visit by members of RIMAN to the SEC DG in Abuja ‌ recently

Glo Canvasses National Pan African Towers Gets NCC’s Nod on Unity at Ojude Oba Festival Collocation Stories by Emma Okonji The 2017 Ojude Oba Festival, which took place at the weekend, in Ijebu Ode, Ogun State, was a rally point for Globacom to seek national unity among Nigerians. Being the main sponsor, Globacom, used the occasion to call for deepening of unity in the country through intense learning of the histories, culture and traditions of the federating communities by youths. The call was contained in a goodwill message by Globacom’s Chairman, Dr. Mike Adenuga Jr., who observed that the theme of the 2017 celebration, Ojude Oba: A Rich Heritage For Ijebu Unity, was a confirmation of the truism that traditions, cultures and religious beliefs were necessary ingredients that would weld peoples and races throughout the history of mankind. “We also wish to appeal to all Nigerians irrespective of ethnic and religious persuasions to do all within their capabilities to strengthen that cord of unity that has always bound us together. We owe the present generation and posterity the responsibility to join forces with men and women of goodwill to sustain the renewed drive towards the historical and cultural renaissance of our

country,� Adenuga said. He stated that Globacom’s sustained partnership with the Ojude Oba Festival Committee was in tandem with its commitment to constantly be at the forefront of major initiatives aimed at accentuating the best of Nigeria’s cultures, values, desires and traditions. He expressed satisfaction with the rising profile of Globacom as the biggest corporate promoter of Arts including celebration of traditions, cultures and desires of Nigeria, adding that the company will continue to support Ojude Oba Festival and sustain provision of world-class voice and data infrastructure that would enable all Nigerians to communicate seamlessly within the nation and across the world. The Awujale of Ijebuland, Oba Sikiru Kayode Adetona, eulogised Globacom and its Chairman for their support for the festival without fail in the last eleven years. According to the paramount ruler, Globacom will be rewarded by posterity for its unalloyed commitment to the promotion of indigenous arts and culture, which are germane to growth and development in the life of the nation. He subsequently prayed for greater successes for the company in all its endeavour.

The Nigerian Communication Commission (NCC) has given approval to Pan African Towers Limited (PAT) to operate as a telecommunications collocation company in Nigeria after a rigorous process and presentation to the regulatory body on the company’s grand vision for Nigeria mobile operators. The company applauded the NCC as a regulator with integrity, while describing the approval as thorough. The approval was communicated to the company by NCC in a letter signed by the Executive Vice Chairman, Prof. Umoru Garba Danbatta. The Pan African Tower company said it would have operations in over 10 African countries, and commence operations in Nigeria immediately, following the approval from NCC. Plans are on-going to launch in Cote d’ Ivoire and Sierra Leone before the end of the year and Liberia, Gambia, Guinea and Senegal planned for 2018, the company said in a statement. THISDAY gathered that the company is already negotiating to acquire about 850 towers in Nigeria from some local companies hosting all the telecommunications

operators in Nigeria and plans to construct an additional 1,500 strategically located build-to-suite sites in the next two years. PAT’s innovative business model will enable it to charge lease rate in each countries’ local currency on all new build to suite sites across Africa; a move that will be most welcome by several operators who are groaning under the existing rate structure. The management team of PAT has among them over 100 years of combined experience in the telecommunication and tower industry. The Nigerian collocation sector of the telecoms industry is currently dominated by two to three operators controlling over 90 per cent of the sector, hence the urgent need for healthy competition. This is in line with the efforts made by the regulator to address the need for service improvement and increased operational efficiency thus creating value for subscribers who are plagued with persistent network quality problems and call drops. This will also prevent anticompetitive activities in the collocation sector which is to the detriment of both

operators and subscribers and may lead to business collapse of some operators. The new tower company is expected to use green technology to reduce cost and help accelerate broadband penetration which is necessary for economic development and poverty reduction. The sub-Saharan Africa has 125,000 towers out of which 45,000, about 36 per cent is currently owned by TowerCos, an additional 95,000 towers are required to meet the growing need for broadband services leaving a huge market yet to be tapped for PAT in Africa which has its strategic thrust as ‘ Think Africa Act Local’. Director at PAT, Mr. Sohail Haider, said: “The NCC approval is a welcome development and will serve as a relief to the operators in Nigeria and across Africa who have been craving for more competition in that sector. PAT is well positioned to achieve that goal. According to recent reports from NCC, Nigeria needs about 80,000 base stations to achieve the smart Nigeria initiative, using 4G/5G technology, but currently has much less than 50,000 base stations.�

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Repositioning Financial Services for Digital Transactions

The evolution of new technologies has caused a lot of disruptions in the financial ecosystem, a situation that demands a new strategic approach to addressing the new wave of digital transactions, writes Emma Okonji Digitalisation is driving disruption and re-shaping the future across payments, banking, trade and commerce, consumer and retail industries, healthcare and other industries, leading to convergence and collocation within some sectors. The increasingly converging and interconnected sectors are rapidly adapting to new market realities and a landscape that is rapidly being redefined and dominated by FinTech disruptors. Data, for example, is essentially becoming a competitive weapon in the hands of discerning players, and more than ever before, collaboration is increasingly becoming the key to survival. Based on the increasing rate at which convergence is taking place, occasioned by the increasing rate of financial technology (FinTech) disruptions, Interswitch, a digital payment solution company, has initiated a lofty idea to host a two-day Interswitch Connect Tech/Payment conference in Lagos, from 14th to 15th of September 2017, designed to bring together, the entire digital financial ecosystem to discuss, debate and evaluate the future of digital transactions, amid threats from FinTech disruptors. Disruptions in the digital space New technologies emanating from FinTech companies are fast changing the old ways of digital payment, thus causing healthy and unhealthy transactions in the financial ecosystem, which many players see as threat to digital transactions. FinTech is an industry composed of companies that use new technology and innovation with available resources to compete in the marketplace of traditional financial institutions and intermediaries in the delivery of financial services. Over the time, their technology solutions have been embraced and adopted by some players in the financial ecosystem, while some players still see some of the solutions as big threat to digital transaction. A recent survey report released by PricewaterhouseCoopers (PwC), raised deep concerns over possible disruption of Nigeria’s financial service sector by the FinTech players. According to the report, the Nigerian retail banking and payments sectors would be the most disrupted by a group of new companies building financial technology solutions. The PwC survey, which was conducted around 50 Chief Executive Officers (CEOs), and industry leaders across various segments of Nigeria’s financial services industry with additional insights and proprietary data obtained from DeNovo, PwC’s Strategy and Platform, focused on the FinTech innovation. The report concluded that FinTech solutions could cause a great deal of disruption in the country’s financial services market. According to the report, FinTechs are redrawing the competitive financial services landscape and blurring the lines that define players in the sector. Their offerings range from competing financial services such as alternative lending, to additive solutions atop existing banking services, to enabling technologies for the banks themselves. “Capitalising on the latest mobile, cloud and digital technologies, Nigeria is increasingly becoming home to many FinTech firms that are trying to shake up the banking value chain,� the report said. Findings from the survey by PwC also revealed that Nigerian financial services players see changing customer needs as the top impact FinTechs have on their business, with up to 60 per cent of respondents indicating that up to 40 per cent of financial services business will be at risk of standalone FinTechs by 2020. Presenting the report in Lagos, Associate Director and Co-FS Advisory Lead at PwC Nigeria, Adedoyin Amosun, said: “From our survey, retail banking and funds transfer have the highest likelihood of disruption at 92 per cent and 85 per cent respectively. Underwriters were of the view that insurance brokerage, Auto and Life insurance stand an equally high likelihood of disruption at 77 per cent. While

Digital payment tools

the threats of disruption is quite appreciated, our respondents also noted the opportunities FinTech adoption will bring especially as seen in the unlocking of opportunities for more revenue sources and reduce operational cost. A sizeable number also believe that Fintech adoption will improve customer retention and product differentiation.� The threat According to Amosun, majority of respondents from traditional financial industry players believed that part of their business is at risk of being lost to standalone FinTechs, up to 92

New technologies emanating from FinTech companies are fast changing the old ways of digital payment in the ďŹ nancial ecosystem, which many players see as threat to digital transactions. Over the time, their technology solutions have been embraced and adopted by some players in the ďŹ nancial ecosystem, while some players still see some of the solutions as big threat to digital transaction

per cent in the case of banks. Also banks ranked loss of market share at the top FinTech related threat, closely followed by increased pressure on margins. One of the ways in which FinTechs are able to do this is by significantly shrinking operating costs. Other FS incumbents ranked information security and privacy concerns as the key FinTech threat to their business. Analysing the survey report, Advisory Partner and Chief Economist, PwC Nigeria, Dr. Andrew Nevin, said: “FinTechs are empowering customers by providing services that are delivered via technology applications on customer’s mobile devices. This allows consumers conveniently initiate and complete transactions, connect to third party entities and access information without restrictions.� All over the world, the increasing momentum of FinTechs and their success is challenging financial services players to devise a spectrum of strategic responses. However, not all FinTechs pose the same threats or offer opportunities. “In some cases, FinTechs will be viewed as enablers to traditional innovation and continuous improvement. In others, it presents a series of disruptions and threats as they continue to make inroads into banks’ traditional territory by offering a competitive service or product,� Nevin said. Taming threats with Interswitch Connect Some experts have suggested that implementation of a customer-centric model focused on offering products and services that truly addresses customer’s needs and supports the completion of transactions through multiple accessible and connected channels, will be ideal to address concerns of those who feel threatened by FinTech solutions. Many experts are of the view that financial players must have to proactively approach the FinTech challenge with a clearly articulated strategy rather than the current approach of adopting reactionary measures. “Incumbents also need to identify the threats and opportunities that are most relevant to their business and explore ways they can build, acquire or partner with FinTechs for the capabilities they lack,� they said. In the midst of the confusion, the organisers of Interswitch Connect have said the conference will discuss various strategies that will rest the fears of most financial players, as they relate to FinTech disruptions.

According to the organisers, the two days conference would feature keynote presentations, panel discussions, breakout workshops, case study presentations and product demos from the leading innovators and Original Equipment Manufacturers (OEMs) in the financial services industry, culminating in the Interswitch Connect Gala night where people would unwind, network and recognise key partners and clients. The conference promises to be the first of its kind and will incorporate thought leadership within the ambits of the payments/fintech space with the keynote delivered by futurist and award winning author, Brett King. The scope of the conference will be extended to include top OEM partners such as Thales, ACI, Stratus & Finastra and other knowledge partners such as PwC, MISYS, Kantar TNS, as well as Ecosystem partners including AfreximBank and TRANSSION Holdings. OEM Partners will also have an opportunity to present their solutions to the target audience. Budding FinTech ecosystem Some experts are of the opinion that FinTech should be groomed to provide financial services that will bring about healthy disruptions in the financial ecosystem, in order for it to gain traction and potentially locate Nigeria on the global map as a FinTech hub. They are equally calling for collaboration between FinTech companies and the financial institutions, that will bring about the right mix of technical skills, capital investments, government incentives, regulatory framework and an entrepreneurial and innovative mind-set, as the catalyst needed to establish FinTech as a key enabler of financial services in Nigeria. The past three years have been formative for the Nigerian FinTech sector and saw the emergence of numerous FinTech start-ups, incubators and investments. Building a strong FinTech ecosystem where startup will engage in external partnerships with financial institutions, universities, research institutions, technology experts and government institutions is expected to facilitate growth and innovation in the FinTech sector, according to expert views. The plan to hold the Interswitch Connect conference, will help address all grey areas and fears envisaged by financial players, as regards the perceived threat to business, posed by FinTech players.

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Big Data and Marketing The huge possibilities of big data and its potential for the advertising and marketing industry came to the fore at the maiden edition of the Brandcrunch Learning Session. Adedayo Adejobi highlights experts’ views that Nigeria must embrace data as a more scientific way to marketing At the maiden edition of the Brandcrunch Learning Session held recently, experts reasoned that marketing practitioners in Nigeria must embrace data as a more scientific way to marketing that works and prevents marketing/customer mismatch. As the world is going digital, big data and Artificial Intelligence is taking over virtually everything as demonstrated by the concept of internet-of-things (IoT). The use of big data for marketing purpose becomes inevitable as people leave trail of data behind in almost every action they take as every smart thing around us generates data. The learning session with the theme: ‘Marketing in the Era of Big Data: The Changing Paradigm’, becomes necessary according to O’Lekan Babatunde, Convener and Publisher, Brandcrunch Nigeria, in order to keep the industry at the forefront of innovation, development and trends in the global marketing and allied industries. “As a veritable platform for the exchange of ideas, learning and profitable information, we have taken it upon ourselves to engender discussions and facilitate sharing of ideasâ€?, Babatunde explained, adding that “the Nigeria marketing industry should not be caught napping as the era of Big Data dawns on everyoneâ€?. Opening his presentation, the lead speaker, Bayo Adekanmbi, Chief Transformation Officer, MTN fast-forwarded to 2013, painted the picture of what sales and marketing will look like with use of big data. He said: “It‘s the year 2030, at a hypermarket in Oshodi. I am here for my shopping and I thought that because I was a returning customer, the human-sized welcoming robot at the front door might greet me by my first name. Impressive! I had learned that robots have special sensors that can swiftly detect a person‘s fingerprint and match it against a database of well over 14 million other customers in a split second for precision identificationâ€?. According to Adekanmbi, “a data scientist, thetraditional definition of the customer through psychographic and demographic classifications has changed with the advent of big data. Big Data enhances “robotic sellingâ€? which can offer me “my personalised offer of the week which included a package of ten different attractive offers that reflected my very personal preferences and up until then unexpressed needâ€?. Such offers will be grabbed with open arms as they are made with precision though up until then, they were unexpressed.â€? Other possible scenarios which are already happening in other climes as painted by the speaker is that in continuation of the “sellingâ€? the robot advises the customer on his car insurance, the weather and congratulates him on his son’s birthday. The customer is stunned and dazed as he is advised to proceed to a counter for a special offer which he finds out is on point. The bank is linked as a loan proposition is announced to customer by the customer service. Querying if the above picture is a nano -segmentation or some sort of open-world marketing, Adekanmbi emphasised its reality as he confirmed that 35% of amazon.com revenue is generated by its recommendation engine. Driving home the reality and functionality of Big Data, he sampled the MTN IoT’s algorithmic cow rearing concepts, which embeds a SIM in the animal and makes it a browse-able destination. This is done to stem cattle rustling problem. He said: “IoT connects all manner of end-points, unraveling a treasure trove of data. Ubiquitous networks and device proliferation enable access to a massive and growing amount of traditionally silo-ed information. Analytics and business intelligence tools empower decision makers as never before by extracting and presenting meaningful information in real time, helping us be more predictive and reactiveâ€? Speaking on the implication of massive data, Adekanmbi noted that there is “cross-industry shifts and data disruption ‌every business is becoming a data businessâ€?. According to him, “Big Data has changed a lot of things today, ability to connect to the consumers, read their minds, have insight to

Culled from Obix Technology what they need and when they need it have taken over.� “Facebook the largest social media in the world creates no contents; Alibaba the largest online retailer has not inventory; Uber the largest transport company in the word has no physical cars but they all relied on data and give the consumers what they need and when they need�, he noted. The implication of this, he further noted is that the traditional definition has shifted, industry delineation is becoming blurry and the basis of competitiveness is changing at the speed of light The Data Scientist maked it clear that the 4Vs of Big Data is changing the age-old 4Ps of marketing – Product, placement, promotion and QSJDF *OTUFBE EBUB DFOUSJD r1FSTPOBMJTBUJPO r1BSUJDJQBUJPO r1FFS 1FFS BOE r1SFEJDUJWF Modeling are taking over. As the data era dawns on Nigeria and the advertising industry, the speaker pointed out that the future of advertising lies in 4’s. These 4’s are: Scientists – Apply advance approach to collate and analyse patterns of the behavior from data sources, and drive targeted strategies; Strategists – create aligned category, brand and customer engagement strategies focused on the customer experience and guided by the brand purpose; Story Builders –shape and evolve compelling stories and content to engage external and internal customers , underpinned by the key insights from culture and data analysis; Socialisers – socialise new experiences ideas and content externally and internally and evolve through continuous two-way conversations. In some climes, robotic creativity and algorithm media planning are already being deployed in the media and marketing space with companies like Samsung already cloud sourcing its creative briefs. For instance, eyeka.com has over 350,000 creatives ready take on briefs from any part of the world. Eyeka, a cloud company and its likes are taking businesses away from brick and mortal agencies. Opening his presentation on the same theme but drilling it further down to “The Human face of big data�, Steve Babaeko submitted that data is the new oil of the world today. In line with the Bayo’s paper, he noted that “the world is generating massive data every second; we leave data trails every day.� According to Babaeko, by 2020, data volume will be 40 Zeta byte, all the grains of sand in the world multiplied by 75! Quite alarming! Drilling it down to the marketing industry, Babaeko explained that the Big Data via small data, affects the marketing sector through analytics, Attributing and Algorithms. He however, noted that the consumers’ behavior is changing, it is therefore important for the marketers and

advertising agencies to know the consumers and connect to their eco-system. So Babaeko’s posers to the advertising industry include – Do we know today’s consumers?; Are we connected to the new eco-system or how connected are we? When are we going to pivot? According to him what used to be popular may no longer be relevant; practitioners in the marketing communications industry need to extend and explore the value chain in content and platform to be relevant to a more contemporary people/ market. He uses the example of Fracis Odega, who has recorded great movies but remains largely unsung. He was taken up by former Etisalat, connected to the new digital eco-system and he became an instant star. Also critical to the speaker is the issue of “retooling our people to prepare for the switch over�, as a way to survive what he describes as “tech invasion� or “Techpocalypse�. As part of the retooling, he reckons a situation in which scientists, engineers, tech guys will be employed to work in agencies. According to him, practitioners are used to silos, this he said, explains the widening knowledge gap between the client and agency, therefore, the onus is on us to keep catching up and be more curious. In the discussion session, the moderator, Emilia Asim-Ita, Senior Consultant, Strategy & External Relations, ThistlePraxis Consulting, taking off from the observable challenges of big data of its unsavoury effects on people especially in jobs, people are vulnerable to lose their jobs because machines are taking over, Artificial Intelligence is taking over! She challenges the speakers. In the speakers’ reactions to Emilia’s call for caution, Babaeko noted that Big Data has answered a lot of questions as to what is to be done in the area of Medical, Engineering, Agriculture, Banking and Social lives but is it is also important to note that there are aspects that call for concern. Babaeko said as human beings we must take control. Still playing the devil’s advocate, Emilia also pointed out that there are tendencies that cyber security and consumer security are at risk; consumers are afraid to lose their privacy ignited some reactions. Reacting to the issue of privacy and cyber security, the lead speaker explained: “Every scientific design has its positive and negative aspects, but there is general responsibility and ethics required by people to curtail it and it is important to give adequate information to consumers on what is been done with their data, why it is important? so as to feel secured and inclusive�. According to him, Artificial Intelligence (AI) is like a demon, man must be in control.� A consumer protection advocate and a discus-

sant at the event, Mrs. Sola Salako-Ajulo, observed that there is disconnect between consumer and service providers or marketers. She said: “Customers service people feel customers are left with no option but to accept what they are given�. However, drawing from the speakers’ presentations, Shola was excited that Big Data is taking over because it’s now speaking to the needs of consumers. She maintained that “Either educated or not, a consumer needs something that can speak to his needs�, but she cautioned: “The problem with big data is eroding on consumers’ privacy because there is no structure to protect consumers’ privacy.� CEO, CopyCoach, another discussant, Boye Adefila also argued that adaptability is important in this era to stay in tune with technological developments including Big Data related issues. Though, not a techie expert but he noted passionately that “customers’ service is being sacrificed and there is a gap between Technology and Customer service�, He however called for moderation and ethics to guide the customer service functions even in the big data era. CEO, Lucent, also a discussant, Mr. Lampe Omoyele, while responding to the common place insinuation on the unavailability of data to work with in the country, differed from that position, claiming instead that “there is lot of data in Nigeria but the issue is how to interpret and integrate it appropriately and derive suitable insights. According to him, research companies must know that data interpretation is essential in order to derive insight to what consumer needs.� The faculty and the panel however agreed that there is a thin line between security and privacy. They posited: “Do you release your data for security planning and cover or hold unto it and be vulnerable? Yes, there will be job losses but one can convert through skill building across industries/professions. The challenge to all is what you are doing to retool so that you can be relevant because new jobs will also be created, keep yourself relevant.� They also noted that there will always be gaps but human beings will survive. The Brandcrunch Session which held under a convivial atmosphere at prestigious Renaissance Hotel, GRA Ikeja, saw a select high profile mix of audience that cut across industries – marketing, engineering, data scientists, social commentators among others, passionately listening through the entire presentations by the high profile faculty and discussants. The highly interactive learning session brought to the fore, the prospects of Big Data for humans’ lives and businesses; the fears and the way forward with intelligent comments and questions by highly discerning audience.

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Lawani: HP is in Nigeria for the Long Term The Retail Account Manager, Central Africa of HP Inc, Mr. Tolulope Lawani, in providing details of the newly launched HP Ink Tank Series in Nigeria and the value they bring to the market place, told Emma Okonji that his company’s business in Nigeria is designed for the long term. Excerpts: What are the peculiar features of the HP DeskJet GT 5810/5820 All-in-One printer that would distinguish them in the market? The products were developed based on our market experience and consumer feedback. They feature a high-capacity ink tank system that delivers excellent quality at an extremely low cost per page. Also, the process of replenishing the ink is clean and easy to handle with the HP spill-free refill system. This feature goes a long way in ensuring seamless and uninterrupted workflow and higher productivity. The inking system is designed in such a manner that you will get crisp and sharp text, vibrant graphics, reliability and so much more. Another major innovation is the ease with which you can print. Rather than physically move to the printer, you have the convenience of printing from a smartphone or tablet through the GT 5820 model. What are the other features that distinguished them from others? Other features of these products are that they have sharper lines, darker blacks, and reduced smudging on coloured papers, thus producing top quality printing and documents. By using the original HP inks, the user is assured of durable colour photos that resist water and fading, ensuring that photos and documents are preserved for several decades. Let me also add that the products are easy to monitor and maintain. They are designed with the intention that human intervention and the disruption that they can cause are highly minimised. Just automate the process and it will independently give you the desired result. It is consistent and durable, ensuring high-quality results for everyday documents and photos. It also has capacity for borderless printing for brochures, flyers, photos and much more. Today’s printing technology is determined by high operational speed. Can that be said of the DeskJet GT 5810/5820 All-in-One printer? The HP DeskJet GT 5810/5820 All-in-One printer can be set up in record time. The system is designed to be up and running in minutes, whereas similar products by our competitors do take up to 40 minutes to set up to print for the first time. Our products come with an Original HP GT51 black ink bottle that enables prompt set-up and printing. Another icing on the cake is that you have a one-year commercial hardware warranty, 24-hour, seven days a week web and technical support in our care centres across the country. Our overarching intention in designing these products is to ensure exceptional output no matter what you print. The key functions of this amazing product can be described in four words - print, copy, scan, wireless. What particular segment of the market are you targeting with the new products? A wide variety of market segments can use the products. However, they are ideal for high-volume users as well as small and micro-businesses that need low-cost, highvolume printing. Take the instance of someone who runs a business centre at a university campus, where there is high demand for volume and prompt delivery. These products will ensure that documentation, whether they are projects, thesis, tests, designs, and even books, among others, are quickly done and in good numbers. The 5820 also offers easy mobile printing options for users who want the freedom to print from their smartphones or tablets. What specific features underline the coinage - Ink Tank Series? The HP DeskJet GT 5810/5820 All-in-One comes with a set of three original HP GT52 colour ink bottles, plus an original HP GT51 black ink bottle that enables prompt set-up

Lawani

and printing. The high-yield HP GT51/52 ink bottles are specifically designed for high-volume printing. Original HP inks are

The products were developed based on our market experience and consumer feedback. They feature a highcapacity ink tank system that delivers excellent quality at an extremely low cost per page. Also, the process of replenishing the ink is clean and easy to handle with the HP spill-free refill system. This feature goes a long way in ensuring seamless and uninterrupted workflow and higher productivity

specially formulated to work with the all-in-one, which ensures that printing is simple and reliable, with amazing results every time. The additional enhancement in the ink supply capacity underscores what we have dubbed the Ink Tank Series. What is the print capacity? The product has the capacity to print up to 8,000 colour pages and 5,000 black and white pages. It is that high. Whether you are a big or small business or even a startup, you will find the printer very adaptable to your need. The HP’s unique spout design prevents ink from filling past the tank’s maximum fill line. All you have to do is simply plug the bottle into the ink tank and let it drain; there will be no squeezing or spilling. In essence, this feature prevents the messy overflow of ink and enables you to produce quality print-out all the time. There are no cartridges. By having the opportunity to print for a longer period of time without having to replenish the ink, you will agree with me that there will be significant improvement in the workflow and level of productivity. You are also availed the opportunity to monitor ink levels with transparent ink tanks, which ensures that you can easily replenish whenever you like, thus preventing a disruption of the workflow. So, the transparent ink tanks allow you to print with confidence. Note also that the customised icon enables you to monitor the number of copies printed. Can you throw more light on what you mean by ‘low cost per page’? Since you can easily see the ink levels and replenish when it’s convenient, you will avoid the extra cost of cleaning the mess resulting from a spill-over as well as a reduction in output due to disruption in the workflow.

Also, as earlier indicated, the products can deliver up to 8,000 printouts in the colour set or up to 5,000 printouts in black. Based on the principle of economy of scale, the cost of printing per page reduces as more copies are printed, simple. Our products are developed to match the needs of the various segments of the economy, and that includes price affordability. Where can customers buy these products in Nigeria? We have a network of distributors, dealers and vendors spread across Nigeria. There are, of course, thousands of stores across the country where you can purchase our products, including the HP DeskJet GT 5810/5820 All-in-One printer. Our major sales dealers and stores are located in Lagos (Ikeja, Ikoyi, Victoria Island), Port Harcourt, Abuja Kano, Ibadan, Enugu, and Warri, among other cities. There are also numerous authorised HP service centres in the country. How is the country’s massive population enhancing sales of your products in the market place? Nigeria being the largest population in Africa and the second largest economy, its growth potential remains high and the country still represents a real market opportunity for us. As I said earlier, we are here for the long term. As a development partner, HP will remain steadfast in supporting the growth and development of Nigeria. We must also acknowledge that every business needs to have a clear understanding of the environment or economy where it operates and must undertake a review of its operational template when the need arises if it hopes to compete and be profitable. Nigeria is an emerging economy with enormous potential.

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BUA’s $600m Cement Plant as Economic Booster Raheem Akingbolu writes on the economic significance of the newly inaugurated cement plant in Edo State by the BUA Group and how it has affirmed the company’s brand promise Close to three decades after entering the Nigerian market as a commodity trader, the BUA brand seems to have fought and won the greatest battle of its life, following the successful inauguration of the newly established three million tons OBU cement plant at Okpella, Edo State. The new plant was a confirmation of the promise made by the company when it first started production of cement from its three million metric tons per annum cement plant at the location that it would follow up with an expansion. According to the company, the new plant is worth over $600 million. Vice President Yemi Osinbajo, who was a special guest of honour at the event, admitted that Nigeria’s economic emancipation and growth must be private sector-led and driven, for the country to get the desired result. He also stated that there is no public sector resource that can match the resources, drive and commitment of the private sector. He emphasised that provision of enabling environment for industrial investment is the cornerstone of the Buhari administration’s economic policy. While commending the project and its economic benefits for the state and the country, Osinbajo pointed out that its construction would boost the Nigerian economy. He said: This enterprise typifies our expectations as a government. In the Economic Recovery and Growth plan which was launched by Mr. President on the 5th of April, 2017, he made it clear that Nigeria’s economic emancipation and growth must be private sector-led and driven. I’m also happy to note that in the construction of the power production facility for this plant, the BUA group has used the most modern and efficient gas turbines which combines low and economical running cost with a very high degree of reliability,’’ The vice president expressed his satisfaction that the plant is a wholly Nigerian enterprise, especially as the planning, the execution and successful establishment of the industrial complex were done by a Nigerian and by a Nigerian team. He commended the Edo Governor, Godwin Obaseki, and the immediate past governor, Adams Oshiomhole, stating that their business friendly policies and preparedness to back private sector initiatives is an excellent demonstration of how to grow the economy and create jobs in the process. According to him, nation building is never judged by the number of new projects or fresh ideas, but by what will complete and sustain well years after. Earlier, the Executive Chairman of the company, Abdulsamad Rabiu had stated that if things work out as projected by the players in the cement sub-sector of the manufacturing sector, Nigeria would be able to save $2billion by the year 2018. The BUA Boss said the company delved into cement production in 2008 with highest stake in Cement Company of Northern Nigeria, (CCNN) and the acquisition of Edo Cement. He also announced the construction of another three million metric tonnes capacity plant close to Obu by SINOMA and will be commissioned next year. He said: “Today marks an important milestone for us. It is not only for us as BUA but the Nigeria cement industry and Nigeria economy in general. As we witness the official commissioning of the 3million metric tonnes Obu cement plant as well as the groundbreaking of the second line of our 3mt plant. “The journey of the Nigeria integrated cement manufacturing has seen Nigeria move from a nation of 3million metric tonnes of production capacity to a country that will have 45 million tonnes of cement manufacturing capacity by next year. We are planning about a 24 increase in capacity,’’ According to Samad, the recent achievement in the sector has not only made Nigeria self sufficient but a self exporter of cement. He added that the cement sub sector

The cement plant

represents over 90 percent of the Nigeria mining sector and employs some 40,000 people directly and over 2million people indirectly. “The success and impressive efficiency of the first line which in its first year of operation was over 90 percent returns of capacity utilisation made made BUA to commence the construction of the second line of 3million tonnes. We are completing another Greenfield project in Sokoto which is 1.5mtpa which cost over $300 million. By the time we are done the combined capacity of our cement plant both in Sokoto and in Edo will be about 8million tones,’’ he added. How it all started Like few Nigerian brands that have become household names in the market, BUA Group entered the market about three decades ago, as a trading company but with the ambition of becoming a solid brand that would command respect in many sectors. From day one, its handlers were able to know early enough that branding was much more than just a cool logo or well-placed advertisement. Promoters of the BUA Group followed a simple rule of branding: they started small with their branding and didn’t forget to focus on their target niche and audience first. They also crafted a clear expression of what their company was most passionate about. This obviously explains why they entered the market as a trading company, majorly dealing in steel, rice, cement and flour importation. Within a short time, the group turned to a major integrated manufacturer of these products locally and started creating thousands of jobs for Nigerians. Since consumers are always quick to identify with brands they can trust, BUA became a respected brand in many sectors. Today, the brand can be defined by many positive attributes. Apart from taking BUA from strength-tostrength by contributing enormously to the growth of the Nigerian economy, the management of the company has worked very well in line with government’s specifications to promote global practice in the country. Expansion BUA Group has, over the past few years, embarked on a series of strategic acquisitions as well as organic expansion, which has seen its business portfolio expand to include the Cement Company of Northern Nigeria (CCNN), Edo/

OBU Cement, Lafiagi Sugar Company, BUA Flour Mills, BUA Sugar Refinery, BUA Pasta, BUA Ports and Terminals and BUA Estates amongst other agribusiness holdings. As at the time the company entered, trading was quiet different in the country as compared to now. It was very difficult because access to funding and foreign exchange were both very challenging. However, it was also quite lucrative as not many companies were able to compete. This is where BUA got it right. The fact that it chose to participate early is believed to have assisted the company in starting its manufacturing concerns. The first of these business initiatives was to set up a flour plant in Lagos, driven by huge demand for flour. At the moment, the company has the flour mills, the pasta plants, a sugar refinery in Lagos and the vegetable oil processing mills and the cement and sugar projects that will soon be inaugurated in Port Harcourt. Just recently, the company started production of cement from its three million metric tons per annum cement plant in Obu, Okpella, Edo State, which is currently the only operational cement plant in Edo State. It followed up with last week’s 3.5million metric tons production line. Medium Term Strategy Having established itself as a household name, a source close to the group recently revealed to THISDAY that its strategic focus will now be to diversify to business areas with greater potential for export where the sourcing and utilisation of foreign exchange is less. This is necessary, according to the source, because most of the materials needed for production can be sourced locally, while also positioning its current line of foods, mining and infrastructure business for market leadership. Just recently, the group announced the divestment of its flour business to Olam International in a deal worth $275m. The agreement signed with Olam, according to the management of BUA, marked a major milestone in the group’s medium-term strategy. Over the years, the group had run one of the largest and most efficient flour milling businesses in Nigeria and the management appears to have confidence in the value it will add to the buyer’s operations. Implementing Government’s Policy Another factor that has helped the growth of

the brand is the understanding of the body language of the government and consumers. For instance, as part of strategic plan to effectively implement government’s policy on backward integration in the manufacturing sector of the Nigerian economy, BUA Group has since embarked on rapid expansion of its sugar plantations in Kwara and Kogi states. At the moment, extensive work is said to be ongoing in Lafiagi, Kwara State, with over 20,000 hectares, while it also has another 50,000 hectares of farmland in Bassa, Kogi State. These two operations form the fulcrum of its backward integration programme for sugar and it is believed that this will further reduce the country’s dependence on imported raw sugar while supporting the value chain in sugar production within Nigeria. Cement Business Similarly, recent developments have shown that the BUA Group is working towards replicating the successes recorded through the deep integration of its cement operations. With most raw materials for cement currently being sourced locally, the group has been able to scale up operations significantly with minimal dependence on foreign exchange, and if information available is anything to go by, it will soon start exporting to neighbouring countries from both the Obu and Sokoto plants, which are currently undergoing 3.5million metric tons Per Annum(MTPA) and 1.5million MTPA capacity expansions respectively to bring the group’s cement production capacity to around 10 million MTPA by 2018. If this happens, then it is easy to conclude that BUA Group will be one of the top-five companies in Nigeria within the next few years. Present Business Climate in Nigeria At various fora, the group has consistently emphasised its support for the work being undertaken by government to involve the private sector in ensuring that all legal and regulatory frameworks are effectively in place to boost the real sector of the Nigerian economy. Nigeria is the most populous country in Africa with around 180 million people. That means a lot of opportunities with adequate resources and a huge market. Apart from investment in the oil sector of the economy, there are other resources in Nigeria that can definitely contribute more to the economy.

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Airtel, NetCare SA, 82 Others Beat Entry Deadline for The SERAs The organisers of the sustainability, enterprise and responsibility awards otherwise known as The SERAS CSR Awards Africa have announced a list of eighty –four organisations that beat the deadline for the submission of entries for the 2017 edition. According to a statement issued by the company, the list of organisations include Fidelity bank, GTbank, Diageo, Lafarge, Sahara Energy, Shell, Chevron, Tolaram group, 9Mobile, FCMB and FrieslandCampina. Others are; Multichoice, Access Bank, NetCare SA, SOSA SA, Airtel, Nigerian Breweries, NCC, Safaricom, iSON group and CocaCola. According to media officer of The SERAS, Mr. Michael Ogunbanwo, “We are indeed delighted at the quality of par-

ticipation thus far. Noteworthy for us is the fact that we have so many first time entrants for The SERAS this year. For us, this clearly is an indicator of the wide acceptability of the worksTruContact CSR Nigeria- initiators of the awards, in promoting and standardising corporate social responsibility and sustainability in Nigeria and Africa. We have continued to receive enquiries from organisations from other parts of Africa seeking to participate. This informed our decision to extending the deadline for entries coming from the southern and eastern Africa regions till September 10th, 2017. Next stage would be the verification exercise which would see us going to the fields to verify and authenticate claims made

by entrants and also gather visual materials for the judges’ panel.� The annual awards, which first held in 2007, was said to have since grown to become the prime corporate awards promoting and measuring corporate social responsibility and sustainability in Africa. Key industry stakeholders rate it as the industry gold standard recognition for impactful investment in CSR and sustainability. Though in its eleventh cycle, the tenth edition saw participation from organisations from across Africa such as Angola, Uganda, Kenya, South Africa, Botswana and Ghana for the first time. The theme for the 2017 awards is-Transformational Sustainability: From Social Responsibility to Social Impact.

Media Seal, Bytesize, Join Worldwide Partners Media Seal, formerly Starcom Media, one of Nigeria’s leading specialist companies and her sister agency, Bytesize Limited, a digital company, providing end-to-end digital marketing services, have joined Worldwide Partners, (WPI) Worldwide Partners is a global collective of marketing services providers who share an independent spirit and entrepreneurial drive to build commerce through connectivity, creativity and collaboration. With this strategic move, Media Seal and Bytesize would be leveraging on huge global resources derived from the collective competencies and capabilities of 65+ agencies in over 45 countries. While announcing the partnership in Lagos, Group Managing Director, Rosabel Group, Ayo Oluwatosin, explained that “the partnership with WPI is one of a kind in the Nigerian market as it is different from the traditional affiliation with holding companies.

Essentially, the WPI network operates a unique business model that leverages on the collective strength of every partner agencyfor the full benefits of our clients.� According to Oluwatosin, there is an in-depth level of synthesis among partner agencies, giving rise to the robustness of marketing solutions and not just media. Speaking on the partnership, Lisa Kettman-Kervinen, Executive Director of EMEA, Worldwide Partners said, “the partnership is to connect, collaborate and to drive each other’s businesses.� She added that like other partners, Media Seal and Bytesize have become shareholders in WPI global network. For Senator Akin Odunsi, Chairman, Rosabel Group, “the partnership becomes necessary because, our businessis global in nature and we need to have a partner that has dynamic global view of the marketing communications business.� It will be recalled that Starcom Media recently

rebranded to Media Seal. This decision the management said,is part of a larger strategic goal aimed at repositioning the business for sustained market leadership in the unfolding new global play. Over the past 17 years, Media Seal has become synonymous with delivering insight- driven strategies within the bounds of high ethical standards. According to the Group Managing Director, it is time to rebrand this winning team for greater efficiency and to take advantage of the market. Media Seal and Bytesize in collaboration with her network agency, would work with clients in creating memorable consumer experience across diverse media platforms. Over the years, the agency has won numerable awards from campaigns that have positively impacted clients’ businesses. Beyond that, accolades have been won also in recognition of our business processes, Oluwatosin stated.

NBC Hosts Energy Efficiency Network Project Workshop Non-alcoholic industry giant and manufacturers of Coca-Cola Products, Nigerian Bottling Company Limited (NBC), has hosted the fifth workshop of the pilot Energy Efficiency Network (EEN) for industries in Nigeria. The workshop took place in the Ikeja Plant of NBC recently and witnessed the presence of industry stakeholders and participants from other companies participating in the network and engaging in series of practice-driven discussions focused on energy efficiency and aimed at supporting the participating companies to identify opportunities for sustainable energy cost saving initiatives. Speaking at the workshop, Director General, Manufacturers Association of Nigeria (MAN), Mr. Segun Ajayi-Kadiri, underscored the need for energy efficiency in the sector, stating that energy cost account for up

to 40% of production cost in some sectors in the economy. He identified efficient energy consumption as critical factor for sustainable and profitable business. On his part, the NBC Country Manufacturing Director, Anthony Njenga noted that, “Energy efficiency is embedded in the company’s strategy to protect the environment and be a sustainable business, hence the Company is pleased to participate in this pilot Energy Efficiency Network (EEN) for industries in Nigeria by NESP� The pilot Energy Efficiency Network project was organised by the Nigerian Energy Support Programme (NESP) in collaboration with the Manufacturers Association of Nigeria (MAN) and the Nigerian Association of Chambers of Commerce, Industry, Mines and Agriculture (NACCIMA). The successful implementation of the initia-

tives discussed at the Energy Efficiency Network (EEN) will go a long way to increase productivity, improve competitiveness, supports sustainability, reduce environmental carbon footprints, whilst helping industrial enterprises to reduce the already high cost of production due to energy cost. Participating companies that took part in the EEN which ran from February – August received technical support to implement an energy management system based on ISO 50001, the international standard for energy management, which was recently adopted and published by the Standards Organisation of Nigeria (SON) as a Nigerian Industrial Standard (NIS/ISO 50001). The other participating companies were BEL Papyrus Limited, Conserveria African Limited, Cormart Nigeria Limited and Vitafoam Nigeria Plc.

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T H I S D AY THURSDAY SEPTEMBER 7, 2017

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Telecoms Consumer Year Records Success, Says NCC Stories by Emma Okonji The declaration of the year 2017 as the ‘Year of Telecom Consumer’ by the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) has continued to record more success stories. The Executive Vice Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of the telecoms regulatory body, Prof Umar Garba Danbatta, made the disclosure while receiving a delegation from

Kano University of Science and Technology (KUST), led by the Deputy Vice Chancellor Administration, Dr. Abdulhadi Aminu, during a courtesy visit to NCC in Abuja recently. The NCC, on March 15, this year, launched the year of telecom consumer campaign programme designed to give concrete expression to the centrality of the consumer in the telecom ecosystem. Since then the commission had embarked

on aggressive enlightenment drive to educate and empower the consumers of the industry. The key components of the campaign include: Creation of greater awareness on service quality; Facts on electromagnetic fields radiation; Do not disturb (DND) Code 2442, which consumers can use to stop unsolicited text messages; and the NCC’s toll free line - 622 through which consumers can reach the commission in cases

where service providers fail to resolve their complaints. “This year has been dedicated to the telecoms consumer, and we’ve been busy from the beginning of the year, trying to educate the telecom consumers on how to protect themselves from unwholesome practices by the operators, especially the unsolicited text messages, as well as raising awareness on our toll free complaint line. “We have noticed a remark-

able improvement in the level of activation of the facility as well as the level of awareness about 622 toll free complaint line. We have the statistics. The successes are there for all to see,� he told the visitors,� Danbatta said. Speaking further, the NCC boss, who congratulated the university on attaining full accreditation status in all academic programmes, however, assured Nigerians that the commission

would continue to be equitable and consider national spread in its ICT interventions in the country. Leader of the delegation commended the NCC boss for his outstanding role in the development of both the telecoms and educational sectors of the country. Danbatta was the Acting Vice Chancellor of the university, before he was appointed the EVC and Chief Executive of NCC in August 2015.

CFAtech Startups Forum Harps on Scalable SME Business The need for technology startups and entrepreneurs to run their Small and Medium Enterprise (SMEs) businesses efficiently, successfully and also ensure business scalability, were the focus of this year’s CFA Startup Hangout, organised by CFAtech, in collaboration with Infographics and SB Telecoms, the developers of TAMS Software. The August 2017 edition of CFA’s Startups Hangout had in attendance startups and entrepreneurs who were empowered with life experiences of the chief executives of both collaborating companies. The Chief Executive Officer of SB Telecoms and Devices, Afolabi Abiodun, and the Chief Executive Officer of Infographics, Chinenye Mba-Uzoukwu, provided critical information of

value to attendee startups to run their businesses efficiently, successfully and in a most scalable manner. Abiodun narrated an intriguing story of how he started running a thriving recharge card business which landed him into indebtedness of about N26 million. He said fleeing to Ghana afterwards cooled off his heels from the pursuing creditors after which he returned to Nigeria to face the problem squarely, with a view to resolving it. “I was close to my grandmother and thanks to the influence of her, she was one who contributed, in no small measure, to the initial capital of my business, as well as supplied the collateral that I used in standing for the loan,� Abiodun said.

EMPOWERING TECHNOLOGY STARTUPS

L-R: CEO InfoGraphics, Chinenye Mba-Uzoukwu; CEO SB Telecoms and Devices, Afolabi Abiodun; his wife, Mrs. Abiodun and Presenter, Tech Trends on Channels Television and the convener of the CFA’s Startups Hangout, Chukwuemeka Fred Agbata Jnr (CFA), during the startups’ Hangout in Lagos...recently

THE ENTREPRENEUR’S BEST FRIEND Succeeding in Family Business Life must go on, even after the irreplaceable have departed. So businesses and organisations should be ready to continue when important figures leave. Yet this is something many fail to grasp. There may be many reasons why senior executives, and chief executives in particular, fail to prepare properly for their departure, and perhaps end up staying too long in the post as a result. Having worked hard to get to the top, the last thing that many will want to think about is their successor. Exercising power may have an intoxicating effect on leaders. They may form an exaggerated sense both of their competence and their indispensability and then fail to detect much merit in anyone else around them. Do you know that only 30per cent of family owned businesses survive the transition process between predecessor and successor? And although these statistics may seem disheartening, family owned businesses are said to out perform non-family companies. As a little girl, I was once told that it is the dream of every entrepreneur to handover operations of his/her business to competent people before full retirement. Although I am nowhere around the age of retirement, I finally understand why succession is very important. In short, some people start businesses as to create a legacy or means of income for generations to come. Today, you will learn why some succession plans fail and how to avoid them as you plan for retirement. Reasons Why Succession Plan Fails in Family Business: Successor’s Lack of Interest

It’s quite embarrassing to admit that I have had conversations with people who are being groomed to take over businesses they do not care about in any way. This automatically means that such businesses are setup to fail in the next generation. If you are thinking of handing your business over to the next generation, you must study your successor closely and be sure that this person has genuine interest in your business and industry trends. Does your successor take time to read about the industry? Or ask questions about your leadership Sucessor Not Trained for Leadership A major mistakepredecessor’s make is handing the business over based on emotions and not logic. How many years has your successor worked in that business? What is their knowledge of how things are/ should be done? What is your organisational structure and how have they climbed up the ladder of leadership? Lack of Exit Strategy As the owner of the business you must also have an exit strategy and must communicate openly about your succession plans. This must be done years before succession takes place. Your successor must be trained and informed of all roles in the company. They must also be educated on key decisions made by the management that have had either a positive or negative effect on the organization. Successor With No Education Education is key; never assume that your successor knows a lot about the business even if they work with you daily. Occasionally, ask questions to text their

Debbie Larry-Izamoje knowledge, send them out to represent you during meetings so industry leaders and your key stakeholders get used to the new face and name of your successor It should also be noted that just someone is a relative should not automatically qualify them to hold a position in the business. They should have the necessary qualifications to work in the organization e.g. university degree, work permit etc. Key Strategies to Ensure Your Family Business Success: Keep Communication Open Communication in any business is key but arguably more important in family businesses. Your succession plan must be tied to your business plan. You must communicate with the person and prepare the necessary documents for succession. You must also communicate with employees so they are aware of the changes that will happen in five to 10 years, which is the recommended succession plan timeframe. You must also communicate with members of your family so they understand what your succession plans are. Come up with a system that benefits all members of the family. If your successor has the least amount of shares in the business this might have a negative effect on his/her performance in the long run therefore come up with a scheme that benefits all parties. Get Professional Help So many people have handled succession well, from Fords to Rembrandt, the Dantata organisation and much more. Your business can be part of this list of succession is planned properly. Ask your lawyer, business and financial consultants

for assistance during this process if you feel stuck. Keep Good Financial Data The downfall of many family businesses succession plan is not having solid data. Have a single point of contact to manage the finances before handing over. You’ll need to bring in a qualified accountant if you don’t have. You may cringe at the cost for this, but the difference between a good accountant and a bad one is the difference between knowing exactly where you are on the road and trying to drive with a mud-covered windshield. Lastly about finances, ensure that you have all needed funds to retire. Once your succession plans are in place, the next thing to do is watch from afar. About the Author Debbie Larry-Izamoje AKA The Entrepreneur’s Best-Friend, holds a BSc in Information management from the University of Sheffield, United Kingdom and Msc in management from University College London (UCL). She has also secured certificates in user innovation from Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) and Innovation and strategy from Harvard University. She is on a mission to raise a generation of young established or soon to be established professionals who are more vocal about business difficulties while providing solutions through public speaking, article writing, training, workshops and coaching. She is the founder of Image Boosters a Communications and strategy agency aimed at assisting SME’s, with core services in social media management and business strategy consultation.

Website: www.imageboosters.com.ng Instagram: @dee_larry @imageboosters_ Email: contactus@imageboosters.com.ng or debbie@imageboosters.com.ng, 08050464111 (text only)

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Olam Nigeria: Adding Value to a Vital Chain To help ensure food security in the country in support of the Federal Government’s Agricultural Transformation Agenda, Olam Nigeria is poised to unveil a $150 million integrated poultry facility in Kaduna in September. Some selected journalists visited the facility ahead of the planned unveiling. Abimbola Akosile reports

T

o feed a nation, it takes a sincere, committed government and much more. And when it comes to feeding the above 170 million citizens and residents in Nigeria, it takes a combination of crucial inter-related factors. When the more than 195 member-countries adopted the 17 global Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) at the landmark 70th United Nations General Assembly in September 2015 in New York, the private sector was enjoined to rally round their home governments to help realise the Goals and 165 targets. This is because no government can singlehandedly ensure food security for its citizens; not in the Third World or the Western developed countries. The role of the private sector comes into play because of the tight efficiency and financial muscle available in the sector, which can be leveraged beyond mere corporate social responsibility. Local Scenario For long, poverty and hunger have featured prominently among the myriad challenges facing Nigeria’s development process, and it is no longer news that millions go to bed hungry on a daily basis. The Federal Government, especially under the current administration is yet to tackle this challenge successfully, although it has prioritised agriculture as a major pivot to diversify the economy and generate more non-oil revenue. Aside the fact that agriculture reported employs around 75 per cent of the country’s labour force, there has been an upsurge in agri-processing and greater involvement of the private sector in agricultural sector financing, leading to the emergence of agripreneurs (agricultural entrepreneurs). Olam Intervention At the Olam Integrated Breeding Farms, Hatchery and Feed Mill in Kaduna, which was reported to have cost the agri-business company around $150 million out its total investment of up to $1 billion so far in the country, the emphasis was on automation and state-of-the-art technology. In a media facility tour coordinated by top Olam officials including the Vice President & Head Corporate and Government Relations, Mr. Ade Adefeko; Business Head, Animal Protein, Dr. Vinod Kumar, Mishra, and the Corporate Affairs Manager, Damilola Adeniyi, THISDAY got a first-hand inkling of the scope of investment made by the conglomerate, and what it would actually take to ensure food security and even export in the poultry business in Nigeria. Below are some of the interventions: Animal Protein Demand According to Olam, “Due to population growth, urbanisation and changing food preferences, we expect a steady increase in the demand of Animal Proteins. This demand was hitherto being met through imports of frozen poultry and fish, but the progressive government policies to phase out such imports makes it imperative that local productive capacity of poultry farming and aquaculture scales up quickly to meet this demand.� Olam, with its strong Nigerian heritage, has identified animal feed & protein, as a win-win opportunity supporting import substitution, rural self-employment and food security and is committing over $100m of fixed capital investments in the first phase. Poultry Sector Devt The company noted that the poultry industry in Northern Nigeria is seriously constrained by the availability and quality of day-old-chicks (DOC). According to the officials, at full capacity, Olam’s breeding farms and hatchery will produce over 1 million high-quality layer and broiler DOC every week, which will reach the farms in Northern Nigeria within a very short period of time and hence, offer low mortality and better chick health. “The Northern markets are dependent on

Olam integrated feed mill in Kaduna, vital for poultry production commercial feed supplies from South, resulting in a high delivered price. By adding a large feed milling capacity (300,000 TPA‌expandable in Phase- 2) in the Northern region, Olam will be able of offer competitively-priced and speciallyformulated feeds to meet the requirement of local poultry farmers�, it added. Enhancing Local Crops At full Phase-1 capacity, Olam’s feed mill will utilise around 180,000 Metric Tonnes of corn and 75,000 MT of soybeans. This additional demand, the company noted, will encourage local farmers to increase the acreage and investment in farming these crops. Olam intends to create over 50,000 MT of in-house storage capacity, along with similar level of outsourced storage facilities, which will help in price stabilisation and hence, better realisation for farmers. It will also enhance food security. The company also wants to collaborate with Federal, State and non-governmental agencies to introducing better farming practices for these crops, thereby increasing farm yields and improving crop profitability. Developing Partnerships Olam revealed that it is working with the Kaduna State Government to develop a model for supplying poultry proteins (eggs and meat) for its school-feeding program at below-market

prices. It will also work with the neighbouring communities to create a Corporate Responsibility and Sustainability (CRS) agenda covering education, health and sanitation. “Olam plans to set up solar power generation facilities on site to meet a part of its energy needs, thereby reducing the usage of fossil-fuel based energy. The site will have an integrated rainwater harvesting program to meet its water requirements�, the company revealed. Upscale Hatchery According to experts, to ensure the success of the One Child + One Egg = 5.5 million eggs under the federal government’s School Feeding Programme, over a billion eggs would be needed in a calendar year of 200 days. Also, the President of the Poultry Association of Nigeria, Dr. Ayoola Odutan, has that while the local demand for frozen chicken is above two million metric tonnes annually; Nigerian farmers are only able to produce 300,000 metric tonnes, leaving a wide gap of more than 1.7 million metric tonnes. This leaves room for smuggling to fill the gap, and according to reports, smuggled chicken accounts for 1.2 million metric tonnes annually. To help fill this yawning gap, Olam is developing a hatchery that would be able to turn out 1,500,000 eggs per week in successive batches. The eggs are sourced from Olam breeding farms

ABIMBOLA AKOSILE under the tightest bio-security measures, with a very high rate of hatchability. These eggs and the day-old-chicks, which processing are supervised by selected veterinarians, are to be sold to backyard farmers for poultry production and supply of meat all year round, outside religious festivals, according to the Olam officials. Positive Philosophy Olam has a vision to recruit young vets; fresh from schools, engage and train them through a diamond programme for two years after which they will be evaluated and placed on a loan scheme to become individual entrepreneurs in their various field of farms specialty. Also, according to Vinod, Olam is not contesting with the backyard farmers for poultry production. “Olam is not a foreign company coming in to kill the small farmers off. Olam is a Nigerian company�. Vinod, who preferred adequate local food security before export, revealed that the company’s focus is to empower local farmers and groom entrepreneurs. With the intervention of Olam and other big private sector players in the country’s agribusiness industry, more jobs would be provided and there would be increased revenue and income, with corresponding ripple effect on farmers, traders and other agricultural stakeholders. In Nigeria, that is a noble cause.

RANDOM THOTS Unifying Factor Ă˜ ÞÒĂ? Ă?Ă™Ă–Ă–Ă™ĂĄĂ“Ă˜Ă‘ Ă‹Ă?Ă?Ă?ĂœĂžĂ“Ă™Ă˜Ëœ ÞÒÓĂ? ĂœĂ?ĂšĂ™ĂœĂžer stands to be corrected. More than ͔͑ ĂšĂ?Ăœ Ă?Ă?Ă˜Ăž Ă™Ă? Ă‹Ă–Ă– Ă“Ă‘Ă?ĂœĂ“Ă‹Ă˜Ă? Ă‹ĂœĂ™Ă&#x;Ă˜ĂŽ ÞÒĂ? Ă?Ă™Ă&#x;Ă˜ĂžĂœĂŁ Ă‹Ă˜ĂŽ ĂŒĂ?ĂŁĂ™Ă˜ĂŽ ĂĄĂ?ĂœĂ? Ă?Ù×ÚÖĂ?ĂžĂ?Ă–ĂŁ Ă&#x;Ă˜Ă“ĂžĂ?ĂŽ Ă“Ă˜ Ă?Ă™Ă?Ă&#x;Ă? Ă‹Ă˜ĂŽ Ă‹Ă?ĂžĂ“Ă™Ă˜ ĂŒĂ?ÞåĂ?Ă?Ă˜ ͖˛͖͑Ú× Ă‹Ă˜ĂŽ ͙Ú× Ă™Ă˜ Ă™Ă˜ĂŽĂ‹ĂŁËœ Ă?ÚÞĂ?Ă—ĂŒĂ?Ăœ Í•Ë› Ă“Ă‘Ă?ĂœĂ“Ă‹Ă˜Ă? Ă“Ă˜ ÞÒĂ?Ă“Ăœ Ă—Ă“Ă–Ă–Ă“Ă™Ă˜Ă?Ëœ Ă“ĂœĂœĂ?Ă?ĂšĂ?Ă?ÞÓà Ă? Ă™Ă? ĂœĂ?Ă–Ă“Ă‘Ă“Ă™Ă&#x;Ă?Ëœ Ă?ĂžĂ’Ă˜Ă“Ă?Ëœ Ă?Ă™Ă?Ă“Ă‹Ă–Ëœ Ă“Ă˜Ă?Ù×Ă?Ëœ Ă‘Ă?Ă™Ă‘ĂœĂ‹ĂšĂ’Ă“Ă?Ă‹Ă– Ă‹Ă˜ĂŽ Ă?Ă?Ă™Ă˜Ă™Ă—Ă“Ă? ĂŽĂ“ĘĽĂ?ĂœĂ?Ă˜Ă?Ă?Ă?Ëœ ĂšĂœĂ?Ă?Ă“ĂŽĂ?Ă˜ĂžĂ“Ă‹Ă– Ă’Ă?ËÖÞÒ Ă?ÞËÞĂ&#x;Ă?Ëœ Ă?Ă?Ă˜Ă‹ĂžĂ™ĂœĂ“Ă‹Ă– ĂœĂ?Ă?Ă‹Ă–Ă–Ëœ Ă?Ă˜Ă&#x;Ă? ĘŽĂ™Ă™ĂŽĂ“Ă˜Ă‘ Ă‹Ă˜ĂŽ Ă‹Ă?Ă?Ă‹ Ă?Ă?Ă Ă?ĂœËœ Ă’Ă‹ĂŽ Ă‹ Ă?Ă™Ă—Ă—Ă™Ă˜ Ă?Ă™Ă?Ëœ Ă‹Ă˜ĂŽ Ă‹Ă–Ă– Ă?Ă™ĂœĂžĂ? Ă™Ă? Ă’Ă‹ĂžĂ? Ă?ĂšĂ?Ă?Ă?Ă’Ă?Ă?Ëœ Ă?ĂžĂ’Ă˜Ă“Ă? Ă‹Ă‘Ă“ĂžĂ‹ĂžĂ“Ă™Ă˜Ă? Ă‹Ă˜ĂŽ ÚÙÖÓÞÓĂ?Ă‹Ă– ĂœĂ“Ă Ă‹Ă–ĂœĂŁ ĂĄĂ?ĂœĂ? Ă?Ă?Ăž Ă‹Ă?Ă“ĂŽĂ?Ë› Ă’Ă? Ă?Ă‹Ă&#x;Ă?Ă? Ă™Ă? ÞÒÓĂ? ĂŒĂ™Ă˜ĂŽĂ“Ă˜Ă‘ ĂĄĂ‹Ă? Ă?Ă–Ă?Ă‹ĂœË? Ă›Ă&#x;ËÖÓʨĂ?Ă‹ĂžĂ“Ă™Ă˜ Ă?Ă™Ăœ ÞÒĂ? Ă™ĂœĂ–ĂŽ Ă&#x;Ăš Ă?Ă™Ă?Ă?Ă?Ăœ ÞÙĂ&#x;ĂœĂ˜Ă‹Ă—Ă?Ă˜Ăž Ă’Ă™Ă–ĂŽĂ“Ă˜Ă‘ Ă“Ă˜ Ă&#x;Ă?Ă?Ă“Ă‹ Ă“Ă˜ ͓͙͑͒˜

Ă‹ Ă?Ù×ÚĂ?ĂžĂ“ĂžĂ“Ă™Ă˜ ĂĄĂ’Ă“Ă?Ă’ Ă“Ă‘Ă?ĂœĂ“Ă‹ Ă?Ă‹Ă“Ă–Ă?ĂŽ ÞÙ Ă—Ă‹Ă•Ă? Ă“Ă˜ Í“Í‘Í’Í• Ă‹Ę°Ă?Ăœ ĂŽĂœĂ™ĂšĂšĂ“Ă˜Ă‘ ĂšĂœĂ?Ă?Ă“Ă™Ă&#x;Ă? ĂšĂ™Ă“Ă˜ĂžĂ? ÞÙ ĂšĂ?ĂœĂ?Ă?Ă“Ă Ă?ĂŽ ËŠĂ—Ă“Ă˜Ă˜Ă™ĂĄĂ?ËŞ Ă“Ă˜ Ă?Ă™Ă?Ă?Ă?ĂœË› Ă˜ĂŽ Ă˜Ă™ĂĄ Ă?Ă™Ă&#x;Ăœ ĂŁĂ?Ă‹ĂœĂ? Ă–Ă‹ĂžĂ?ĂœËœ ÞÒĂ? Ă?ÞËÕĂ? ĂĄĂ‹Ă? Ă’Ă“Ă‘Ă’Ă?Ăœ Ă‹Ă˜ĂŽ Ă˜Ă‹ĂžĂ“Ă™Ă˜Ă‹Ă– ĂšĂœĂ“ĂŽĂ? ĂĄĂ‹Ă? Ă‹Ăž Ă?ÞËÕĂ?Ë› Ă’Ă? Ă Ă?Ă˜Ă&#x;Ă? Ă™Ă? ÞÒĂ? ĂŒĂ‹ĘľĂ–Ă? Ă‹Ă‘Ă‹Ă“Ă˜Ă?Ăž Ă‹ Ă?Ă‹Ă—Ă“Ă–Ă“Ă‹Ăœ Ă?Ă™Ă? ĂĄĂ‹Ă? ÞÒĂ? Ă˜Ă‹ĂžĂ“Ă™Ă˜Ă‹Ă– Ă?ÞËÎÓĂ&#x;Ă— Ă“Ă˜ Ă‹Ă™Ă&#x;Ă˜ĂŽÄ€Ëœ Ă‹Ă˜ĂŽ ÞÒĂ? Ă‹Ă—Ă?ĂœĂ™Ă™Ă˜Ă“Ă‹Ă˜Ă? Ě™ Ă?ĂœĂ“Ă?Ă‹Ă˜ Ă‹ĂžĂ“Ă™Ă˜Ă? Ă&#x;Ăš ĂŽĂ?Ă?Ă?Ă˜ĂŽĂ“Ă˜Ă‘ Ă?Ă’Ă‹Ă—ĂšĂ“Ă™Ă˜Ă?Ěš ĂĄĂ?ĂœĂ? Ă™Ă&#x;Ăž ÞÙ Ă‘Ă?Ăž ÞÒĂ?Ă“Ăœ ÚÙĂ&#x;Ă˜ĂŽ Ă™Ă? ĘŽĂ?Ă?Ă’ Ă‹Ă‘Ă‹Ă“Ă˜Ă?Ăž ÞÒĂ? Ă&#x;ĂšĂ?Ăœ Ă‹Ă‘Ă–Ă?Ă? Ě™Ă˜Ă‹ĂžĂ“Ă™Ă˜Ă‹Ă– ĂžĂ?Ă‹Ă—Ěš Ă?Ă™Ă–Ă–Ă™ĂĄĂ“Ă˜Ă‘ ÞÒĂ? Ă?Ă™ĂœĂ—Ă?ĂœËŞĂ? Í•Ě‹Í‘ Ă’Ă&#x;Ă—Ă“Ă–Ă“Ă‹ĂžĂ“Ă™Ă˜ Ă“Ă˜ ĂŁĂ™Ëœ Ă•ĂĄĂ‹ ĂŒĂ™Ă— ÞËÞĂ? Ă”Ă&#x;Ă?Ăž ĂžĂ’ĂœĂ?Ă? ĂŽĂ‹ĂŁĂ? Ă?Ă‹ĂœĂ–Ă“Ă?Ăœ ĂŽĂ&#x;ĂœĂ“Ă˜Ă‘ ÞÒĂ? Ę¨ĂœĂ?Ăž Ă–Ă?Ă‘Ë› Ă™Ăœ ĂœĂ™Ă&#x;Ă‘Ă’Ă–ĂŁ ÞåÙ Ă’Ă™Ă&#x;ĂœĂ?Ëœ Ă’Ă&#x;Ă˜Ă‘Ă?Ăœ ĂšĂ‹Ă˜Ă‘Ă?Ëœ ÚÙà Ă?ĂœĂžĂŁËœ Ă•Ă“ĂŽĂ˜Ă‹ĂšĂšĂ“Ă˜Ă‘Ëœ ÚÙÖÓÞÓĂ?Ă‹Ă– ĂœĂ“Ă Ă‹Ă–ĂœĂŁ Ă‹Ă˜ĂŽ Ă?ĂžĂœĂ“Ă•Ă? Ă‹Ă?ĂžĂ“Ă™Ă˜ ĂĄĂ?ĂœĂ? Ă?Ă?Ăž Ă‹Ă?Ă“ĂŽĂ? ĂŒĂŁ Ă?ÓÞÓäĂ?Ă˜Ă?

Ă&#x;Ă˜Ă“ĂžĂ?ĂŽ Ă“Ă˜ Ă™Ă˜Ă? Ă‘Ă™Ă‹Ă–Ëœ Ă‹Ă˜ĂŽ Ă‹Ăž ÞÒĂ? Ă?Ă˜ĂŽËœ ÞÒĂ? ĂœĂ?Ă–Ă“Ă?Ă? Ă‹Ăž ÞÒĂ? Ă™Ă&#x;ĂžĂ?Ù×Ă? Ă‹Ă—Ă™Ă˜Ă‘ Ă“Ă‘Ă?ĂœĂ“Ă‹Ă˜Ă? Ă‹Ăž ÒÙ×Ă? Ă‹Ă˜ĂŽ Ă“Ă˜ ÞÒĂ? Ă“Ă‹Ă?ĂšĂ™ĂœĂ‹ ĂĄĂ‹Ă? ĂšĂ‹Ă–ĂšĂ‹ĂŒĂ–Ă? Ă‹Ă˜ĂŽ Ă“Ă˜Ă?Ă?Ă?ÞÓÙĂ&#x;Ă?Ë› Ă™Ă?Ă?Ă?Ăœ Ă“Ă? Ă‹Ă˜ĂŽ ĂĄĂ“Ă–Ă– Ă‹Ă–ĂĄĂ‹ĂŁĂ? ĂŒĂ? Ă‹ Ă&#x;Ă˜Ă“Ă?ĂŁĂ“Ă˜Ă‘ Ă?Ă‹Ă?ĂžĂ™ĂœËœ åÓÞÒ Ă Ă“Ă?ĂžĂ™ĂœĂŁ ĂŒĂœĂ“Ă˜Ă‘Ă“Ă˜Ă‘ Ă?Ă—Ă“Ă–Ă?Ă? ÞÙ ÞÒĂ? Ă&#x;Ă˜Ă?Ă—Ă“Ă–Ă“Ă˜Ă‘ Ă?Ă‹Ă?Ă?Ă? Ă™Ă? Ă‹Ă˜Ă‘ĂœĂŁ Ă?ÓÞÓäĂ?Ă˜Ă?Ë› Ùå ÞÒËÞ ÞÒĂ? Ă—Ă‹Ă”Ă™Ăœ Ă™ĂŒĂ?ÞËĂ?Ă–Ă? ÞÙ Ă“Ă‘Ă?ĂœĂ“Ă‹ËŞĂ? Ă›Ă&#x;ËÖÓʨĂ?Ă‹ĂžĂ“Ă™Ă˜ Ă?Ă™Ăœ Ă&#x;Ă?Ă?Ă“Ă‹ Ă’Ă‹Ă? ĂŒĂ?Ă?Ă˜ Ă–Ă‹ĂœĂ‘Ă?Ă–ĂŁ ĂŽĂ?Ă‹Ă–Ăž ĂĄĂ“ĂžĂ’Ëœ ĂžĂ?Ă—ĂšĂ™ĂœĂ‹ĂœĂ“Ă–ĂŁ Ă?Ă™ĂœĂ‘Ă™ĘľĂ?Ă˜ Ă“Ă?Ă?Ă&#x;Ă?Ă? Ă‹ĂœĂ? ĂŒĂ™Ă&#x;Ă˜ĂŽ ÞÙ ĂœĂ?Ă?Ă&#x;ĂœĂ?Ă‹Ă?Ă?Ë› Ă? Ă™Ă˜Ă–ĂŁ Ă?Ă&#x;Ă?Ă’ Ă—Ă‹ĂžĂ?Ă’Ă?Ă? ĂĄĂ?ĂœĂ? ÚÖËãĂ?ĂŽ ĂŽĂ‹Ă“Ă–ĂŁ ÞÙ Ă’Ă?Ă–Ăš Ă‘ĂœĂ?Ă‹ĂžĂ?Ăœ ĂŒĂ™Ă˜ĂŽĂ“Ă˜Ă‘Ëœ Ă?Ă‹Ă—Ă‹ĂœĂ‹ĂŽĂ?ĂœĂ“Ă?Ëœ Ă‹Ă˜ĂŽ ĂšĂ‹ĂžĂœĂ“Ă™ĂžĂ“Ă? Ă?Ă?ĂœĂ Ă™Ă&#x;Ăœ Ă‹Ă—Ă™Ă˜Ă‘ Ă‹Ă–Ă– Ă?ÓÞÓäĂ?Ă˜Ă?Ë&#x;ĂĄĂ“Ă?Ă’Ă?Ă&#x;Ă– ĂžĂ’Ă“Ă˜Ă•Ă“Ă˜Ă‘ -Abimbola Akosile

33

T H I S D AY Ëž Ëœ ÍľËœ Í°ÍŽÍŻÍľ

Ëš

State governors flanking Vice President Yemi Osinbajo at a recent meeting in Abuja

Can State Peer Review Boost Devt? Many analysts believe the 36 states in Nigeria can face up to their responsibilities and various development challenges through peer review assessments among the states themselves. Their thinking is that those states which cannot generate enough internal revenue to pay even salaries can learn best practices from their counterparts around the country in areas of committed leadership and development strategies. Can state peer review boost development in Nigeria? THE FEEDBACK

Abimbola Akosile * It most certainly can. This type of healthy competition was what led the relatively steady development recorded in the then twelve States of Nigeria. No state wanted to be left behind; the governors were left unchanged for long periods of time, some of them up to nine years. The governors competed positively, which led to a lot of innovation, firsts, and borrowing ideas from one another during this period. - Mr. Buga Dunj, Jos, Plateau State * Yes, this would make for a healthy competition, checks and learning opportunities from high performance states e.g. how is Lagos State achieving sustainable results; what did Cross River do right that our state can model?, and so on. - Ms. Nkeiruka Abanna, Lagos State * Indeed state peer review can boost development because there are states that are weak in revenue generation and cannot even pay salaries of their workers. If they can take away pride and learn best practices from their counterparts around the country in areas of committed leadership and development strategies, this will truly boost greater development within states and strong unity as support is given to those that seek development with the aim of building or developing Nigeria. - Hon. Babale Maiungwa, U/Romi, Kaduna * Yes, a typical example is the joint Lagos and Kebbi rice we are eating presently, known as Lake Rice. - Mr. Yusuf M.B.O, Nda Aliu, Kwara State * Learning from other states that are doing well is quite a good practice; there are urgent needs to also conduct ‘self-assessment’ questionnaires and introduce same common party manifestoes that may cover state’s sectors of the economy. We can also have spelt-out developmental programmes and projects which will comprise democratic, political, corporate and economic governance, management, and socio-economic development. Even the developing countries learn from the developed and fast-growing nations of the world through different programmes e.g. the Millennium Development Goals which were eight goals with measurable targets and clear deadlines for improving the

Yes, it can:

11

No, it cannot:

1

Others:

2

Radical tip:

Healthy rivalry!

Number of respondents:

14

Male:

11

Female:

3

Highest location:

Lagos (7)

lives of the world’s poorest people. To meet these goals and eradicate poverty, leaders of 189 countries signed the historic declaration at the United Nations Millennium Summit in 2000 and also the African Peer Review Mechanism (APRM) which was a mutually agreed instrument, voluntarily acceded to by the member states of the African Union as a self-monitoring mechanism. It was founded in 2003. The mandate of the APRM is to encourage conformity in regard to political, economic and corporate governance values, codes and standards, among African countries and the objectives in socio-economic development within the New Partnership for African Development (NEPAD) structure. - Mr. Michael Adedotun Oke, Founder Michael Adedotun Oke Foundation, Apo, Abuja * Yes, peer review will definitely boost development in Nigeria. States which cannot generate enough internal revenue must learn therefrom best practices from their counterparts in areas of committed leadership and development strategies. - Miss Apeji Patience Eneyeme, Badagry, Lagos State * It cannot bring development, as some states only wait at the end of each allocation to go to Abuja to collect funds and might not expend such funds judiciously for the purpose meant for e.g. bailout fund. Up till date some governors are yet to pay or clear staff salaries, pension and gratuities to pensioners after several meritorious years of service e.t.c. and no house, accommodation, food, medical treatment for the family, which is a problem because

of recession. Restructure the country into six regions so that all the regions will start afresh in competition, as development has stagnated. Peering among states is worse, like moving from frying pan to fire. - Mr. Dogo Stephen, Kaduna State * Yes, the 36 states in Nigeria can face up to their responsibilities and various development challenges through peer review assessments among the states themselves because those unable to meet up will learn from experience, observation and by taking the bull by the horn. This will boost committed quality leadership, standard development strategies and reformed policies. - Mr. Apeji Onesi, Lagos State * The usefulness or otherwise of state peer review is something I’m trying to wrap my mind around. The African Union (AU) has something similar. Leaders of nations in Africa are supposed to help one another keep to the right path in terms of true democratic governance and what have you. - Mr. E. Iheanyi Chukwudi, Brainchild Academic Resources, Apo, Abuja * Of course peer review should boost development. If it doesn’t, then there is something fundamentally wrong. The peer review process/mechanism will enable states learn from each other, discover and leverage on where a state has comparative advantage. Where a state is weak, you can learn from your strong peers. The peer review structure will also allow states share their visions and plans, pool resources together to achieve such plans and visions. The whole essence of the peer review system is for ‘us to win together’. Unfortunately, indolence, envy, lack of vision, corruption, and other primordial sentiments have stopped us from getting the benefits derivable from it. - Mr. Biodun Aiyegbusi, Engineer, Lagos State * It should be able to where there is a desire to perform, which would spur the desire to learn. - Mrs. Jennifer Nkiruka Abraham, Lagos State * The answer is yes. Smart ones (States) have engaged in what we call study tours to exchange best practices and learn from each

other. Kano and Lagos States under Fashola and Kwankwaso are good examples in the area of IGR. - Mr. Boniface Kassam, Development Expert, Bauchi State * Yes, it is possible. This present structure does not give room for hard work and competition that will lead to development and self-sustainability - Mr. Etop Ukutt, Photojournalist, Lagos State * Absolutely yes! If only those several nonperforming states can bury their misplaced pride and learn from other more prosperous and development-oriented counter-parts, there would be equitable development around the country. But that would be easier said than done, because the yardsticks to determine development are potential bones of contention. - Mr. Olumuyiwa Olorunsomo, Lagos State

Next Week: Can Local Govts FulďŹ l Citizens’ Aspirations? Ă™Ă?Ă‹Ă– ÑÙà Ă?ĂœĂ˜Ă—Ă?Ă˜Ăž Ă‹ĂœĂ?Ă‹Ă? Ě™ Ă?Ěš Ă‹ĂœĂ? ÞÒĂ? Ă?Ă–Ă™Ă?Ă?Ă?Ăž ÞÓĂ?ĂœĂ? Ă™Ă? ÑÙà Ă?ĂœĂ˜Ă—Ă?Ă˜Ăž ÞÙ ÞÒĂ? Ă‘Ă?Ă˜Ă?ĂœĂ‹Ă– ÚÙÚĂ&#x;Ă–Ă‹Ă?Ă? ĂŒĂ&#x;Ăž ÞÒĂ? Ă?Ă–Ă?Ă?ĂžĂ?ĂŽ Ě™Ă?Ă?Ă–Ă?Ă?ĂžĂ?ĂŽËŁĚš Ă?Ă™Ă&#x;Ă˜Ă?Ă“Ă– Ă™Ă?Ă?Ă“Ă?Ă“Ă‹Ă–Ă? Ă™Ă?ĂžĂ?Ă˜ ĂŒĂ?Ă‹Ăœ ÞÒĂ? Ă—Ă‹Ă”Ă™Ăœ ĂŒĂœĂ&#x;Ă˜Ăž Ă™Ă? Ă‹Ă˜Ă‘Ă?Ăœ Ă‹Ă˜ĂŽ ËÞÞËĂ?Ă•Ă? Ă?ĂœĂ™Ă— Ă‹Ă˜Ă‘ĂœĂŁ Ă?ÓÞÓäĂ?Ă˜Ă?Ë› Ă˜Ă‹Ă–ĂŁĂ?ĂžĂ? ĂžĂ’Ă“Ă˜Ă• ÞÒÓĂ? Ă“Ă? ĂŒĂ?Ă?Ă‹Ă&#x;Ă?Ă? ĂŽĂ?Ă?ÚÓÞĂ? Ă’Ă&#x;Ă‘Ă? Ă—Ă™Ă˜ĂžĂ’Ă–ĂŁ Ă‹Ă–Ă–Ă™Ă?Ă‹ĂžĂ“Ă™Ă˜Ă? Ă?ĂœĂ™Ă— ÞÒĂ? Ă?Ă?ĂŽĂ?ĂœĂ‹ĂžĂ“Ă™Ă˜ Ă‹Ă?Ă?Ă™Ă&#x;Ă˜Ăž ÞÙ ÞÒĂ? Ă–Ă™Ă?Ă‹Ă– Ă?Ă™Ă&#x;Ă˜Ă?Ă“Ă–Ă?Ëœ ĂŽĂ?Ă Ă?ÖÙÚ×Ă?Ă˜Ăž ĂšĂœĂ™Ă‘ĂœĂ?Ă?Ă? Ă‹Ăž ÞÒĂ? Ă‘ĂœĂ‹Ă?Ă?ĂœĂ™Ă™ĂžĂ? Ă“Ă˜ ĂŒĂ™ĂžĂ’ Ă&#x;ĂœĂŒĂ‹Ă˜ Ă‹Ă˜ĂŽ ĂœĂ&#x;ĂœĂ‹Ă– Ă‹ĂœĂ?Ă‹Ă? Ă“Ă? Ă?ÖÙå Ă‹Ă˜ĂŽ Ă?ĂœĂœĂ‹ĂžĂ“Ă?Ë› Ă™ ĂŁĂ™Ă&#x;Ëœ Ă?Ă‹Ă˜ ÞÒĂ? Ă–Ă™Ă?Ă‹Ă– Ă?Ă™Ă&#x;Ă˜Ă?Ă“Ă–Ă? Ă’Ă?Ă–Ăš Ă—Ă?Ă?Ăž Ă‹Ă˜ĂŽ Ă?Ă&#x;Ă–Ă?Ă“Ă–Ă– Ă?ÓÞÓäĂ?Ă˜Ă?ËŞ ĂŽĂ?Ă Ă?ÖÙÚ×Ă?Ă˜Ăž Ă‹Ă?ĂšĂ“ĂœĂ‹ĂžĂ“Ă™Ă˜Ă?ËŁ Ă? ĂŁĂ?Ă?Ëœ ÒÙåˣ Ă–Ă?Ă‹Ă?Ă? Ă—Ă‹Ă•Ă? ĂŁĂ™Ă&#x;Ăœ ĂœĂ?Ă?ĂšĂ™Ă˜Ă?Ă? ĂŽĂ“ĂœĂ?Ă?ĂžËœ Ă?Ă’Ă™ĂœĂž Ă‹Ă˜ĂŽ Ă?Ó×ÚÖĂ?Ëœ Ă‹Ă˜ĂŽ Ă?ÞËÞĂ? ĂŁĂ™Ă&#x;Ăœ Ă?Ă&#x;Ă–Ă– Ă˜Ă‹Ă—Ă?Ëœ ÞÓÞÖĂ?Ëœ Ă™ĂœĂ‘Ă‹Ă˜Ă“Ă?Ă‹ĂžĂ“Ă™Ă˜Ëœ Ă‹Ă˜ĂŽ Ă–Ă™Ă?Ă‹ĂžĂ“Ă™Ă˜Ë› Ă?Ă?ĂšĂ™Ă˜Ă?Ă?Ă? Ă?Ă’Ă™Ă&#x;Ă–ĂŽ ĂŒĂ? Ă?Ă?Ă˜Ăž ĂŒĂ?ÞåĂ?Ă?Ă˜ ÞÙÎËã Ě™ Ă?ÚÞĂ?Ă—ĂŒĂ?Ăœ Íľ Ęś Ă™Ă˜ĂŽĂ‹ĂŁËœ Ă?ÚÞ ÍŻÍŻĚš ÞÙ abimbolayi@yahoo.com, greatbimbo@gmail.com, abimbola. akosile@thisdaylive.comË› Ă?Ă?ĂšĂ™Ă˜ĂŽĂ?Ă˜ĂžĂ? Ă?Ă‹Ă˜ Ă‹Ă–Ă?Ă™ Ă?Ă?Ă˜ĂŽ Ă‹ Ă?Ă’Ă™ĂœĂž ĂžĂ?âÞ Ă—Ă?Ă?Ă?Ă‹Ă‘Ă? ÞÙ 08023117639 Ă‹Ă˜ĂŽËšĂ™Ăœ 08188361766 Ă‹Ă˜ĂŽËš Ă™Ăœ 08114495306Ë› ÙÖÖËÞĂ?ĂŽ ĂœĂ?Ă?ĂšĂ™Ă˜Ă?Ă?Ă? ĂĄĂ“Ă–Ă– ĂŒĂ? ĂšĂ&#x;ĂŒĂ–Ă“Ă?Ă’Ă?ĂŽ Ă™Ă˜ Ă’Ă&#x;ĂœĂ?ĂŽĂ‹ĂŁËœ Ă?ÚÞĂ?Ă—ĂŒĂ?Ăœ ͯͲ

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BUSINESSWORLD

DEVELOPMENT

Movement hitches after the rains at Airways bus-stop, Apapa, Lagos

ABIMBOLA AKOSILE

FG Commences Implementation OGP Process, as Three States Declare Interest Adedayo Akinwale in Abuja The Federal Government has revealed that the implementation of Open Government Partnership (OGP) in order to increase openness in governance while also preventing and detecting corruption as commenced, even as three states; Kaduna, Anambra and Kano have formally declared interest to participate. The OGP is an international multi-stakeholder initiative which brings together government and civil society organisations to ensuring that government activities are open rather than being shrouded in secrecy. The Attorney General of the Federation and Minister of Justice, Abubakar Malami disclosed this at the training of members of open alliance

organised by the African Centre for Leadership, Strategy and Development (Centre LSD) in Abuja recently. The AGF, who was represented by Special Adviser, Justice Section Reform, Barrister Julie Ibekaku -Nwogu, noted that the implementation of the National Action Plan (NAP) that was co-created by the civil societies and government has commenced in earnest. This, according to him, has led to progress and success stories recorded in several areas, including open contracting, led by the Bureau for Public Procurement (BPP), open budgeting, led by the Ministry of Budget and Planning and Budget Office, beneficial ownership transparency, led by the Corporate Affairs Commission (CAC) among others.

The minister stressed that the two recently signed executive bills both on the promotion of ease of doing business and also on the Voluntary Assets Declaration Scheme (VAIDS) by Vice President Yemi Osinbajo speak to two commitments (4 and 5) in the NAP. Malami revealed, “ let me also inform you that the three the States- Kaduna, Anambra and Kano have formally decided to join the OGP. I am particularly delighted about the participation of the states because they are the tier of government that is closer to the people. It is our view that increased openness at the state level will impact more directly on the benefits that citizens will derive form good governance.� Earlier, the Director of the Centre, Dr. Otive Igbuzor said

the OGP process was started in 2011 by eight countries , noting that presently more than one third of humanity are engaged in this process. According to him, “for Nigeria, the problem is that the resources that we have not translated into services for citizens and President Muhammadu Buhari understood that one of the major problem is corruption. So, the OGP is meant to promote openness, transparency and accountability in the use of resources. He added that, “the challenge is the citizens of Nigeria, government and indeed everyone need to have a change of mindset and a change of orientation to implement its transformative commitment, (fourteen of them), government has made and that resources of

the country will deliver services to the people.� Igbuzor stated that it has been shown all over the world that when citizens engaged, then transparency, accountability and openness would increase, stressing that it was a commendable move that government has signed up to the OGP. The Executive Director emphasised that it was a good thing that CSOs and government are coming together to make a commitment to improve transparency and accountability in Nigeria using different methodologies including physical transparency; adding that “the way we get our money through budget and the way we spend through procurement must be open.

“Corruption thrives when there is no information, through doing specific things to prevent corruption, through having beneficial ownership register, so that we know who owns what and if you own what cannot be accounted for by your income then we can know that corruption has taken place,� he said. The Co-Chairman of OGP, Mr. Edet Ojo said the training provides the opportunity to CSOs to put in place reforms they have been clamouring for over the years through the OGP implementation. He said for a long time governance has been left to the government alone, stressing that the CSOs have realised that it wasn’t working and that it was time to try a different approach.

CSO Advisory C’ttee Showcases Achievements in Anti-Corruption Project Initiatives Abimbola Akosile The Civil Society (CSO) Advisory Committee for the European Union (EU) funded Project, ‘Support to Anti-Corruption in Nigeria’ has commended the significant achievements recorded under the initiative. The committee also noted that the impressive work done under the project contributed to the visibility of Nigeria’s anti-corruption crusade and highlighted the need for human rights observance in the fight against corruption. In a statement signed by the Committee’s Chairman, Mr. Olanrewaju Suraju, at the end of its 11th and final meeting held recently in Lagos, the Committee expressed satisfaction with the successes achieved by the project and suggested that efforts be made by the various implementing organisations to sustain the project initiatives. The statement said the meeting was briefed on the activities undertaken under the project by the implementation team from the United

Nations Development Programme (UNDP) and representatives of 10 CSOs that received grants to carry out various anti-corruption activities. It noted that a total of 11 quarterly CSO Advisory Committee meetings were held throughout the lifespan of the project and that the meetings continued to align with the activities articulated under Outcome 3 of the project and its overall strategic objectives. The statement said 100 CSO representatives were trained and prepared to participate in the grants process and that a number of the trained CSOs prepared result-oriented proposals, out of which 10 were selected for the award of grants by a Grant Award Committee to conduct anti-corruption activities. The successful grantee Organisations were then supported to implement activities highlighted in their individual grants applications. It stated that: “The results show that the grantees did impressive work on advocacy and public engagement, capacity building, education and youth empowerment, budget tracking, policy

development and ICT for corruption prevention.� Particular instances are the results recorded by the New Generation Girls and Women Development in Ekiti State where 3,710 inschool youths pledged to uphold integrity in all their dealings; 730 PTA members were reached during the dialogue with PTA members and the culture of silence was broken such that people (children, youths and adults) discussed corruption and its effect openly in public places, schools and homes. Also the Self Help Development Facilitators in Imo State trained and assisted 25 CSOs to submit tracking reports based on the 2016 Imo State budget and to take part in capital projects tracking in the 14 LGAs with 40 postings verified. Lastly, the African Network for Environment and Economic Justice in Delta State through the grant has gained the recognition of the Nigerian government for their work on the UNCAC review process and implementation. This has also led to the inclusion of ANEEJ as part of the Nigeria official delegation to

the expert meeting on the management and disposal of recovered and returned assets in support of sustainable development, in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia. The UNCAC Coalition International Secretariat in Berlin through a statement also commended the Nigerian government for including civil society as part of the Nigerian government official delegation, to the expert meeting in Addis Ababa held from February 14 to 16, describing it as the first of its kind. The grant support fostered an increase of CSOs participation in the UNCAC review process in Nigeria as the number of CSOs who participated at the country visit grew from 3 during the 1st review to 6 during the 2nd review. The UNCAC international coalition also recognised ANEEJ leading role in mobilising CSOs to participate in the 2nd UNCAC review circle in Nigeria. NOTE: Interested readers should continue in the online edition on www.thisdaylive.com

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BUSINESSWORLD

DEVELOPMENT QUOTE OF THE WEEK

“Our energiesandresourcesshouldn’tbespentagainon the debate aboutdivision. Our manifestdestinyistobe agreatnation,notto beanation where we are talkingabout division.Wemustfocusourtime,ourenergiesandourresources on beingthatgreat nation thatGodhascalledusto be.Thisisanationthatwill showforth in culture, in technologyandincommerce,God’sinvestmentin the blackrace� - VICE-PRESIDENT YEMI OSINBAJO SAN SPEAKING IN ABUJA

Lawmaker Presents N20m Cheque to Empower Epe Rural Women Funmi Ogundare

Stakeholders Endorse Establishment of Training School, Adoption of CERPAC Scheme Abimbola Akosile Diplomats, stakeholders and Chief Executives of Immigration of the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) have thrown their weight behind the setting up of a training school to be located in Nigeria, and also the adoption of Nigeria’s Combined Expatriate Resident Permit Aliens Card (CERPAC) within the West African sub-region. The Comptroller General of the Nigeria Immigration Service (NIS), Mr. Muhammad Babandede, who addressed stakeholders at a recently concluded all-encompassing stakeholders’ meeting in Abuja, noted that the meeting was aimed at reviewing inherent irregularities while improving its data sharing strategies within the 16 member nations. Before the signing of the official version of the report and its recommendation by the ECOWAS Heads of Immigration at the inspection of its CERPAC facilities, Babandede harped on the need for immigration agencies across the sub-region to work closely towards delivering smooth intelligence gathering. The ECOWAS Immigration heads however called for the setting up of a committee to implement a strategy on the ECO visa within timely framework convergence, stressing that all major airports in the region should be linked simultaneously with the database of the International Police Organisation (INTERPOL) and fool-proof biometrics as driven by CERPAC. Addressing the media executives on the upgrade of the 36 resident permit centres for expatriates and aliens coming into Nigeria, the Chairman of CONTEC Global Group, Dr. Benoy Berry, said the recent unveiling of the centres to 36 was done with the view to seamlessly monitor and keep track of expatriates and foreigners contributing to the development of the country. He said, “The adoption and introduction of the CERPAC technology across the subregion will help check illegal immigrants, terrorism and compliance to immigration

L-R: NIS CG Babandede; Chairman, ECOWAS Head of Immigration and CGI of Togo, Mr. Simtaya Djohena, and GM Contec Global, Mr. Gerald Daminet, during a visit of ECOWAS Heads of Immigration to CERPAC Centre, Abuja...recently control measures.� According to Berry, government’s effort at introducing visa on arrival for all foreign nationals would further boost its robust framework for the ease of doing business, stressing that the synergies would eradicate the hitherto bureaucratic bottlenecks hindering the influx of foreign investors into the country. He commended the NIS for the robust application of the CERPAC technology which has been institutionalised at Nigeria’s airports. In a remark, ECOWAS Head of Division, Free Movement and Migration, Mr. Tony Luka Elumelu, noted that growth and development within the region is premised on the

implementation of ECOWAS free movement, protocol effectiveness, border management, data management and sharing, regional coordination, as well as monitoring and reporting among others. According to him, the importance of the exchange of specimens of travel documents amongst members states to aid clearance and check fraudulent use of travel documents, maintaining that all travellers (including minors) should be issued travel documents by immigration authorities while ECOWAS should adopt a common approach for the protection of children to monitor and combat abuse and human trafficking.

No fewer than 135 women in Epe Constituency were recently presented with a N100,000 cheque each, under the Hon. Wale Raji Women Economic Empowerment Scheme (WESS) to enable them start their own businesses. The loan scheme, undertaken to the tune of N20 million, was carried out in partnership with the Lagos State Employment Trust Fund (LSETF). In its first phase, the women went through a one-week training programme on book and record-keeping as well as managing their businesses, among others, got interest-free loans, to pay back at their own convenient time. In his remarks, the member representing Epe Constituency in the House of Representatives, Wale Raji, said the initiative is a fulfilment of his electoral promises to the people on women empowerment, adding that in the course of his campaign his attention was drawn to the fact that they are economically disadvantaged. “One of the reasons is lack of access to funds for their businesses. Many of them resorted to borrowing at a very high cost and I promised to put in place a loan scheme that will be interest-free and will be at convenient repayment terms. I decided to enter into collaboration with the LSETF to put together an interest-free revolving loan fund to the women.� While advising the beneficiaries to make the best use of the funds as a way of encouraging others, Raji said though he has enjoyed the cooperation of the electorates in the constituency, addressing poverty among the people has been the major challenge. “For the beneficiaries, the fund is for their business, they should not use it for aso-ebi. It is to liberate them economically and I think they will take to the advice and make use of the funds. We will continue to do whatever we can to alleviate poverty among the people,� he said. The South-west Women Leader of All Progressives Congress (APC), Chief Kemi Nelson, said if well utilised, the women can have a minimum turn-over of N10,000 monthly and still have enough to do business. She also advised the women not to use the fund for aso-ebi, saying, “It is also not to be given to their husbands. They should get serious with it and become financially independent. Other politicians can also emulate Hon. Wale Raji by looking back to see how they can enhance the lives of the electorates.� Some beneficiaries at the programme thanked the Raji for his initiative, saying it would go a long way in impacting their lives. A beneficiary, Mrs. Taiwo Shittu thanked Raji for his initiative, saying that he has been able to impact the lives of the women in Epe community. “The women in the community have been set up. I really thank him for what he has done for Epe division as far as women are concerned,� she said, adding that the seminar they attended was meant to help them raise capital and do other tangible things with it. “It is going to be an addition to the market women. We all attended the training and it really helped especially the book-keeping aspect of it. It will enhance the standard of living of the women in the community so that they will not have to be sitting at home and expecting their husbands to bring anything for them,� she added.

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T H I S D AY THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 7, 2017

HEALTH & LIFESTYLE

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

Multiple IVF Cycles as Panacea to Infertility While some infertile couples settle for a single IVF cycle in their quest to have babies, but often get disappointed at the outcome, the World Health Organisation believes that women below the age of 35 need to undergo at least two cycles, and recommends three for women above 35 to improve their chances of success, Martins Ifijeh reports

“

Many infertile couples stop fertility treatments prematurely because they think of Invitro Fertilisation (IVF) as a single shot to having a family, an idea that has made couples discouraged at completing their treatments.” These were the words of Professor Scott Nelson, the author of a research study that focused on how to achieve successful fertility treatments, recently published in the Journal of the American Medical Association. Nelson believes the wrong assumption by couples with fertility issues has made many lose chances at having their own children because they believed if their single IVF treatment didn’t work, then they are very likely not to be successful at the second, third or even the sixth cycles. He is of the opinion that most fertility clinics have operated under the assumption that couples who have completed three or four unsuccessful IVF cycles are less likely to benefit from future cycles, adding that this recent revelation may alter how fertility clinics inform patients and/or whether they recommend multiple treatment cycles. According to the study, which was done in the United Kingdom by Nelson and a team of researchers, 156,947 women who received 257,398 IVF between 2003 and 2010 were analysed, and this showed that the average live birth rate for couples participating in multiple (even up to six) IVF cycles was as high as 65.3 per cent He said other important findings from the study are that, “women under the age of 35 years are the most likely to benefit from a six-cycle regimen; women 40-42 years (using their own eggs) had a 31.5 per cent live birth rate at the multiple cycle mark; women older than 42 years (using their own eggs) had live birth rate greater than four per cent on multiple cycles; maternal age was irrelevant with the use of donor eggs, giving women 35-years and older the same success rate as women in the under 35 years bracket.” He explained that those planning to undergo IVF or have already experienced two or more unsuccessful IVF cycles should regroup and schedule consultations with their fertility specialists if they are determined to have

While IVF is not cheap any where in the world, the idea of purchasing a cycle at one time is more expensive than the cost of the same number of cycles when purchased in packages. For couples to maximise their chances of successes, they should rather opt for multiple cycle than single cycle which is usually the case among couples

Infertility is treatable

babies of their own. “One of the benefits of undergoing multiple cycle is that most fertility clinics offer discounted rates for a set number of multiple IVF cycles, typically around three or four. In response to these findings, clinics might expand their discounts. These plans are structured in different ways so you will have to choose the one that makes the most sense for your age, number of eggs retrieved, number of fertilised embryos, among others. ‘’We need to stop thinking of IVF as a single shot at having a family and think of several cycles as the standard. For most couples –and certainly those women younger than 40 years, and those of any age using donor eggs – two thirds will achieve a live birth after five or six treatment cycles. This will take, on average, two years and is similar to rates that couples conceiving naturally take in one year.” Nelson added: ‘’Clinical commissioning groups should be funding at least three cycles across the board - just look at the impact they can have for families. The study included 156,947 women in the UK who received 257,398 IVF ovarian stimulation cycles. The chance of success differed markedly with age, with women under 40 having a 68 per cent chance of a baby within six cycles, compared to just 32 per cent for women aged 40-42, and 11 per cent for those over 42,” he emphasised. Co-author, Professor Debbie Lawlor of the

University of Bristol, said: “As the number of treatment cycles increased, the cumulative rate across cycles increased up to the ninth. Clinicians often dissuade couples from further treatment cycles when they have had one with no eggs retrieved, or imply that results from one such cycle indicate very low chance of future success. Our results suggest that is not the case,” he said. In addition to Nelson et al’s study, the World Health Organisation (WHO) has also recommended that women below 35 years of age should undergo at least two IVF cycles, while those above 35 years should undergo three or more IVF cycles, as this increases chances of having their babies, an idea they believed is most helpful in avoiding premature treatments, which often times leave couples disappointed since the single IVF cycle has a lower chance of success compared to multiple cycles. WHO says fewer than half of women will have a successful pregnancy on their first round of IVF. “It is better for couples to prepare their minds on how many cycles they can settle for rather than going for one at a time,” the health body says. Advanced Reproductive Care, a fertility initiative in the United States believes while IVF is not cheap anywhere in the world, the idea of purchasing a cycle at one time is more expensive than the cost of the same number of cycles when purchased in packages, adding

that for couples to maximise their chances of successes, they should rather opt for multiple cycle than single cycle which is usually the case among couples. A fertility awareness website, www.winfertility.com described fertility treatment as an unpredictable journey in which infertile couples are unable to tell what the future holds, whether they will only need a single IVF cycle, or they will need two attempts or even four. According to the website, the best chances of succeeding on first IVF cycle depends on age and whether the woman is using her own eggs or using donor eggs from a younger woman; what kind of treatment the reproductive endocrinologist prescribes; the fertility centre’s expertise, and luck/fate/divine intervention, among others. “It’s not completely controllable by any means, or else everyone would get pregnant on their first IVF cycle. But there are indicators that may help you plan, and there are discounted plans to help couples manage payment. “Fertility peaks in most women in their early 20s and begins to decline gradually in their late 20s. Fertility declines much more rapidly around age 35. At age 40, the woman’s chances of getting pregnant in any given month is about five per cent. Right off the bat, you can see that Invitro Fertilisation greatly increases your chance of getting pregnant as you get older,” the website says.

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T H I S D AY THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 7, 2017

NEWS

UNICEF: 3.6 Million People Live without Basic Water Services in N’East Kuni Tyessi in Abuja The United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF) has revealed that as a result of insurgency in the North-east, 3.6 million people live without basic water services, even as more than 180 million people lack basic drinking water in countries ravaged by conflict or unrest. Also, it disclosed that 75 per cent of water and sanitation

infrastructure has been damaged or destroyed in the conflict- affected area of the same region. In a press statement signed by its chief communication specialist, Ms. Doune Porter, UNICEF’s global chief of Water, Sanitation and Hygiene (WASH), Sanjay Wijesekera, said children suffer most as a result of the conflicts with attendant consequences of preventable ailments such as

malnutrition and potentially fatal diseases like cholera. He said, “Children’s access to safe water and sanitation, especially in conflicts and emergencies, is a right, not a privilege. ”In countries beset by violence, displacement, conflict and instability, children’s most basic means of survival – water – must be a priority. “In far too many cases, water

and sanitation systems have been attacked, damaged or left in disrepair to the point of collapse. When children have no safe water to drink, and when health systems are left in ruins, malnutrition and potentially fatal diseases like cholera will inevitably follow,” Wijesekera said. The statement said “People living in fragile situations are four times more likely to lack

basic drinking water than populations in non-fragile situations according to a recent UNICEF and World Health Organisation analysis. Of the estimated 484 million people living in fragile situations in 2015, 183 million lacked basic drinking water services. ”In conflict-affected areas in North-east Nigeria, 75 per cent of water and sanitation infrastructure has been dam-

aged or destroyed, leaving 3.6 million people without even basic water services.” Furthermore, it stated that “In famine-threatened North-east Nigeria, Somalia, South Sudan and Yemen, nearly 30 million people, including 14.6 million children, are in urgent need of safe water. More than five million children are estimated to be malnourished this year, with 1.4 million severely so.”

PMGMAN: FG’s Policies Will Lead to Export of Nigerian Medicines Martins Ifijeh The Pharmaceutical Manufacturers Group of the Manufacturers Association of Nigeria (PMGMAN) has expressed optimism that the recent Executive Orders given by Vice-President Yemi Osinbajo on the Support for Local Content in Public Procurement will lead to export of Nigerian medicines abroad. Stating this during the 4th Nigerian Pharma Manufacturers Expo in Lagos recently, the Chairman of the group, Okey Akpa, said the executive order directs the mandatory patronage of locally manufactured medicines by all government ministries, departments and agencies, adding that the policy is expected to accelerate the growth and development of the local pharmaceutical manufacturing sector “This will in turn assure national medicines’ security, as well as boost self sufficiency in the production of medicines. Other positive outcomes associated with these policies include the stimulation of considerable employment in the sector. The policy will also lead to increased inflow of Foreign Direct Investment as well as facilitate the export of Nigerian

medicines to neighbouring countries. “Another recent development that demonstrates the efficacy of our new partnership model is the Public-Private Partnership, signed by the federal government with a local firm to produce vaccines in Nigeria. While signing the agreement on behalf of the government, the Minister of Health, Professor Isaac Adewole, stated that the need to ensure medicines’ security for the nation was a key factor that underpinned the partnership. There is robust evidence to show that this concept was developed intrinsically by PMGMAN,” he added. He said the new integrated partnership model has also begun to achieve results internationally, adding that the local pharmaceutical industry is committed to continuing the production of high quality and affordable medicines as well as creating employment and contributing to national development. We therefore look forward to your partnership and support as critical stakeholders, to ensure our important industry continues to play its critical national role, as well as reaches its full potential.

HMOs Have Capacity to Boost Healthcare Delivery, Says Hygeia CEO

Kuni Tyessi in Abuja

For improved and affordable healthcare services to Nigeria’s teeming population, especially in assisting healthcare facilities in getting paid for services rendered and in ensuring less burden to beneficiaries of the services, Health Management Organisations (HMO) are said to be key. The Chief Executive Officer of Hygeia, Mr. Obinnia Abajue, stated this when he held its Providers’ Conference in company of some of its partners in Abuja. The conference was steered towards creating an open platform for feedback from its stakeholders and healthcare service providers. He emphasised that most beneficiaries of healthcare services cannot afford to pay the cost in its entirety, hence the need for HMOs to work with hospitals and find ways to balance the needs of the providers and that of the enrollees. While stating that healthcare

services must be paid for, as they are certainly not free and are commodities that are expensive everywhere in the world, Abajue lamented that several Nigerians do not know and understand the significance of HMOs and what they stand for, as well as what they stand to benefit. He explained that HMOs are private establishments that have been set up to act as intermediaries between individuals and the providers. He added that they aggregate demand to be able to channel them to providers in a way that they sustain it more. He said: “Healthcare is not cheap. It is expensive everywhere in the world. Someone has to pay for it because it is certainly not free. If you try to pass the cost ultimately to the beneficiaries, most people can’t afford it and we have to work for hospitals who are themselves businesses trying to stay profitable and alive and see a way that balances the needs of the providers and enrollees who pay for the services ultimately.

L-R: President, Pharmaceutical Society of Nigeria, Ahmed Yakasai; Excutive Secretary, Pharmaceutical Manufacturers Group of Manufacturers Association of Nigeria (PMG-MAN), Dr Peter Adigwe; and Chairman, PMG-MAN, Dr. Okechukwu Akpa, at the 4th Nigeria Pharma Manufacturers Expo in Lagos recently

Dala Orthopaedic Hospital Handles 480 Spinal Cord Injuries Annually Ibrahim Shuaibu in Kano The Management of Dala Orthopedic Hospital Kano has expressed concern over increasing cases of Spinal Cord Injury (SCI) in the state, saying the hospital is receiving no less than 480 cases annually. The Chief Medical Director of the Hospital, Dr Nuhu Salihu said on Tuesday that the hospital was receiving 10 cases weekly, 40 monthly and 480 cases annually. “The case of spinal cord injury was on the raise in Kano since 1985 and seven out of every 10 patients were victims of accident. Because of the increasing cases of SCI, the hospital has resolved to build a 100-bed capacity centre for SCI patients”. Speaking at the World Spinal Cord Day celebration organised by Rebuilding Hopes on Wheel Initiative (RHOWi), the chief medical director noted that the major cause of the injury in African countries was accident, while in the developed countries it was largely caused by degenerating changes. “Initially, we have only 8-bed Spinal Cord Injury unit in the hospital but courtesy of the increasing cases of injury, we have converted our 30-bed ward into SCI centre pending the completion of the 100-bed centre which is the first of its

kind in the country.” He cautioned members of the public especially those that have no First Aid knowledge to avoid handling victims of accident, advising that, Whenever there is an accident, people around should avoid engaging themselves in the first aid. Rather they should inform experts who will handle the situation professionally. This will greatly help in reducing cases of SCI not only in Kano but in the whole country.” In her address also, Hajiya Amina Audu, founder of the initiative, said RHOWi was established to assist patients of spinal cord injury in the state, saying “The nature of our sickness needs special care and we will not just fold our hands while our relations are up and doing to improve our lives. “We are facing serious challenges including lack of funds, scarcity of some drugs, lack of proper care and befitting rehabilitation centre. The life of SCI’s patient is full of complications and needs someone that will take care of him.” She said the initiative had series of programmes that were aimed at improving the lives of patients of spinal cord injury in Kano, however, she said the programmes could not be achieved without the help of government and individuals.

‘Cedarcrest has Saved Nigerians from Medical Tourism Abroad’ Martins Ifijeh The Medical Director, Cedarcrest Hospitals, Dr. Felix Ogedegbe, has stated that the hospital’s healthcare initiative has played a critical role in saving many Nigerians from embarking on medical tourism abroad. Stating this during the inauguration of a branch of the hospital in Lagos, he said the hospital’s specialised services have made the country to now earn foreign exchange as patients from neighbouring African countries now patronise the hospital. “We have patients from neighbouring countries that come here for treatment. Some patients previously operated abroad unsuccessfully, have had to be re-operated here in Cedarcrest. Our operations in Abuja, Lagos and Port Harcourt have catered for nearly 40,000 new patients and over 70,000 returning patients over the last 10 years, saving the country huge amounts in foreign exchange.” He further said since inception in 2008, Cedarcrest hospitals have been at the forefront of promoting the local availability of world class healthcare to Nigerians. “Why really do our people need to go abroad at great costs when we have the capacity to do so

much at home?” Ogedegbe queried. He pointed out that Cedarcrest has grown in leaps and bounds from a mono specialty 12-bed hospital in Garki, Abuja. “We commenced operations in Port Harcourt working out of the Shell Hospital in 2009, became multi-specialty in 2010 and opened the first Lagos hospital in Ikeja in 2012. Today, we boast of about 110 beds. Our flagship purpose built is now 95 per cent complete with trauma centre, major radiologic modalities including MRI, CT scan, digital X rays, bone densitometry, USS and modern admission wards.” On his part, the Lagos State Commissioner for Wealth Creation and Employment, Mr. Babatunde Durosinmi Etti, commended the management of the hospitals for establishing a branch of the hospital in Lagos. He said the establishment of an arm of the hospital in Lagos aligns with the strategic roadmap of the administration in Lagos which has the health and welfare of all its citizens at heart. He enjoined Lagosians to take advantage of the qualitative healthcare delivery that the hospital, through its specialised services, is bringing to the state.

T H I S D AY THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 7, 2017

38

HEALTH

HEALTH MATTERS

goketakinrogunde@gmail.com

By Goke T. Akinrogunde 07036777348; 07029126776

Tetanus: A Deadly But Highly Preventable Disease

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not immunized against it, especially in the older generation born before the 1960s when tetanus vaccine was yet to be incorporated as routine vaccination in infants and young children, or in people who have failed to maintain adequate immunity with active booster doses of vaccine.

etanus is one deadly but easily preventable disease condition – done via vaccination. But for those not vaccinated, it comes not just as a potential killer but also comes embarrassing with its various manifestations of locked jaw, spasm, uncontrollable body stiffness, funny facial expression, body posture etc. The salient point to note here is that tetanus is dangerous; it kills so easily and cheaply too. I have had cause in the past to narrate cases of close relative and friends who fell to tetanus, like play, like play. As old as time Tetanus was well known to ancient people who recognised the relationship between wounds and fatal muscle spasms. The word “tetanus” is derived from the Greek word tetanos meaning “taut”, and teinein to “stretch”. Tetanus is an infectious disease caused by contamination of wounds from bacteria that live in the soil. The causative bacterium Clostridium tetani is an organism capable of living many years in the soil in a form called a spore. According to historical documentation, the bacterium was first isolated in 1899 by Japanese physician, ShibasaburoKitasato, while he was working in Germany. Kitasato also found the toxin responsible for tetanus and developed the first protective vaccine against the disease. Mode of transmission Tetanus occurs when a wound becomes contaminated with tetanus bacteria spores. Infection follows when spores become activated and develop into bacteria that multiply and produce a very powerful toxin (poison) that affects the muscles. Tetanus spores are found throughout the environment, usually in soil, dust, and animal waste. The usual locations for the bacteria to enter the body are puncture wounds, such as those caused by rusty nails, splinters, or insect bites. In a similar manner, burns and any break in the skin are also potential entryways for the bacteria. It is important to note however that tetanus is acquired through contact with environment; it is not transmitted from person to person. The disease results in severe, uncontrollable muscle spasms. The earliest sign is “locked jaw” muscle spasms of the face, causing the disease to sometimes be called “lockjaw disease.” In severe cases, the muscles used to breathe can develop spasm, causing a lack of oxygen to the brain and other organs that can potentially lead to death. The disease pattern The tetanus bacteria produce the toxin (poison) tetanospasmin, which is responsible for causing tetanus. Tetanospasmin binds to motor nerves that control muscles, enters filaments that extend

Symptoms The main feature of tetanus is muscle rigidity and spasms. In generalized tetanus, the initial complaints may include any of the following: Irritability, muscle cramps, sore muscles, weakness, or difficulty swallowing are commonly seen. Facial muscles are often affected first. Trismus or lockjaw is most common. This condition results from spasms of the jaw muscles that are responsible for chewing. A sardonic smile (devilish-looking) -- medically termed risussardonicus -- is a characteristic feature that results from facial muscle spasms. Muscle spasms are progressive and may include a characteristic arching of the back known as opisthotonus. Muscle spasms may be intense enough to cause bones to break and joints to dislocate. Severe cases can involve spasms of the vocal cords or muscles involved in breathing. If this happens, death is likely, unless medical help (mechanical ventilation with a respirator) is readily available. Tetanus is easily preventable

from nerve cells to the muscle fibers, and travels in the along the nerve fiber until it reaches the body of the motor nerve in the spinal cord or brainstem. Then the toxin migrates into the synapse (small space between nerve cells critical for transmission of signals among nerve cells) where it binds to presynaptic nerve terminals and inhibits or stops the release of certain inhibitory neurotransmitters. Because the motor nerve has no inhibitory signals from other nerves, the chemical signal to the motor nerve of the muscle intensifies, causing the muscle to tighten up in a huge continuous contraction or spasm. If tetanospasmin reaches the bloodstream from the wound site, it can be deposited in many different presynaptic terminals resulting in the same effect on other muscles. Immunisation altered tetanus spread In developed countries, because of widespread immunisation and careful wound care, the total annual number of cases has come so low, averaging about 40 cases per year in USA for example. However, the case in underdeveloped countries

of Africa, Asia, and South America is different, here, tetanus is far more common. The annual worldwide incidence is between 500,000-1 million cases. The majority of new cases, however on worldwide basis, are in the newborn in their first month of life i.e. neonates. The disease can come in four different patterns: r (FOFSBMJTFE UFUBOVT DBO BGGFDU BMM TLFMFUBM muscles. It is the most common as well as the most severe form of the four types. r -PDBM UFUBOVT NBOJGFTUT XJUI NVTDMF TQBTNT at or near the wound that has been infected with the bacteria. r $FQIBMJD UFUBOVT QSJNBSJMZ BGGFDUT POF PS several muscles in the face rapidly (in one to two days) after a head injury or ear infection. Trismus (“lockjaw”) may occur. The disease can easily progress to generalized tetanus. r Neonatal tetanus is similar to generalized tetanus except that it affects a baby that is less than 1 month old. This condition is rare in developed countries. Tetanus may develop in people who are

Any wound is a serious case The point to note here is that if one has a wound, one should seek medical attention immediately. It is particularly important in those not immunized or have not had the booster dose in the last 5-10 years, any open wound is at risk of developing tetanus. It is especially important to visit a hospital if the wound is large, crushed, or heavily contaminated, any victim of such must go to the nearest hospital for evaluation. Occasionally, both a tetanus booster (toxoid) and tetanus antibodies are required if the wound that is assessed to be tetanus-prone. Tetanus antibodies are reserved for people with incomplete immunizations with a tetanus-prone wound. And in cases where a wound cannot be recalled to have occurred but nevertheless one experiences trouble swallowing or have muscle spasms in the facial muscles, such a case must see a doctor immediately because one can never tell, it could be an incipient tetanus showing the earliest signs. Anyhow one looks at it, for tetanus, it will always be correct knowing that “prevention is many times better and cheaper than attempted cure”. Tetanus-related death is avoidable. Get immunized / immune-boosted today – it is free.

Inside the Hospital Despite deadly, tetanus is easily preventable Permit me to share my worries with you. I have been married for five years without a child. All efforts to conceive over these years have proven abortive; please I will appreciate your guide on the matter Thanking you for your early response. Vero, Dear Vero, Your inner worries are well convened in this mail. One thing however is the fact that infertility and sub-fertility cases are quite common and you need not feel that yours is exceptional. As a matter of fact there are cases with worse bearings – vis-à-vis many more years than five years without an issue after

getting married; and somehow they carried on until the point when the situation turned for good – now having children. For one, you need to get it clear that it takes two to tango; in this wise, it means that both the male and female partners must have proper fertility health profile before conception can take place. Data collection worldwide had it that, in infertility cases, men and women were found wanting or deficient in materials and conditions necessary for effective fertility processes. Interestingly, research findings in some centers even postulate that in these days of epidemic sub-fertility / infertility, it is a ratio 50:50, for both male and female partners. One thing I know for sure is that unlike what was the case years back, most cases of infertility can now be cured per medical

interventions. First line intervention can come in the mode of mere counseling about when (and sometimes how) to have intercourse while monitoring the ovulation process in the woman. Generally, baseline and advanced investigations of both partners would have sufficed before commencing monitoring. Where either of the partners is found inadequate with the instituted investigations, appropriate intervention are advised and administered where financial means is not an issue. From personal interaction, I have come across partners whose mode of work-engagements was traced as the major reason for the delay at conceiving. Imagine what “modern” day capitalist work engagement has done to families, with a

number of families condemned to living apart recurrently, couples finds themselves ‘partnering’ hundreds kilometer (and some over the seas) apart, perhaps only available for one or at most twice sex intercourse in a month (or in months) no thanks to job-engagements. In these types of scenario, even when we found that both partners have medical indices good enough to conceive, it wasn’t surprising that this was not the case, since to get pregnant, one must have sexual intercourse with appropriate timing. In the light of the foregoing, I am inclined to suggest that proper workup investigations by appropriate medical practitioners, with requisite experience and expertise, would assist your case. I encourage you to give it a trial. Best wishes

39

T H I S D AY THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 7, 2017

HEALTH

Eliminating Mother-to-Child Transmission of HIV in Nigeria Despite Nigerian Government’s target to eliminate mother-to-child transmission of HIV by 2016, over 60,000 children are still being infected yearly in the country. Odimegwu Onwumere writes on need to tackle the scourge head on

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fair skin-tone pregnant woman expected to be in her mid 20s refuses to give her name or where she resides as this writer accosts her in June this year for an interview at a hospital in Port Harcourt, the capital of Rivers State. All that she could say was that she’s tired of taking HIV drugs and would not bother about the status of the unborn child even as her doctors were counseling her to the contrary. Her stance was without a doubt one of the reasons that formed the view of the then Dr. Goodluck Jonathan-led federal government to launch the national elimination of Motherto-Child Transmission of HIV (eMTCT) Plan 2015-2016, in Abuja, on November 13, 2014. In spite of this, there’s a bloodcurdling data of January 2016, suggesting, “Nigeria currently accounts for 55 per cent of the new HIV infections in West, Central Africa Region (WCAR), and with 3.4 million people living with the virus. “Nigeria is regarded as the country with the second highest burden of HIV in the world after South Africa. Currently, an estimated 60,000 new HIV infections are recorded among children in the country yearly.” Regardless of this, the National Agency for the Control of AIDS (NACA), described the launch of eMTCT, as being in affirmative with the Global Plan towards putting out HIV infections among children by 2015, as according to a statement by a Director General of NACA, Prof John Idoko. Idoko said: “Achieving the eMTCT is inextricably linked with and directly contributes to the Millennium Development Goals (MDGs), especially MDG 3 (gender equality), MDG 4 (reduced child mortality), MDG 5 (improved maternal health) and MDG 6 (combat HIV/ AIDS). “This positions eMTCT as an important part of the maternal and child health and the overall development agenda... You are aware that the President’s Comprehensive Plan For HIV/AIDS (PCRP), was launched in 2013 and this marked a major commitment by the government to accelerate the implementation of key interventions against HIV, including eMTCT.” Upon the ‘germane progress’ the government said it recorded in the purging of Mother-to-Child Transmission of HIV, Jonathan was yet befuddled about the transmission from mother to child. He hinged his fears on the fact that the scourge had gone out of the control of the health sector and had drastically endangered the economies and developmental hard works of many countries in the world that included those in sub-Saharan Africa. “With over three million people living with HIV, Nigeria has one of the highest burdens of HIV in the world. It is a matter of concern that more than half of the people living with HIV in Nigeria are women, and young people, within the productive age group,” Jonathan said in 2014. According to him, “The 2010 National Sentinel Survey for pregnant women attending antenatal

60,000 Nigerian children are infected with HIV annually

care in Nigeria recorded a HIV prevalence of 4.1 per cent, while the population survey carried out in 2012 observed a HIV prevalence of 3.4 per cent. Only about 61 per cent of pregnant women attended antenatal care in 2013 and only 36 per cent delivered in health facilities.” But for another pregnant woman, Margret James, 30, taking her drugs is a routine thing she has not failed to do. James speaks out that her consciousness was built after the initiation of the eMTCT Plan 2015-2016. However, James is expected to deliver a child free of HIV through the birth canal, not Caesarean Section (CS), her doctors say. For Lucy Iwho, 35, her three children were born HIV-negative. She says that she detected her status earlier and has been conscious with her drugs, good diet and nutrition. During the event of 2014, upon that Nigeria Government said that it was committed to the execution of the plan to eliminate Mother-toChild Transmission of HIV by 2016, it was yet afraid to realise the plan by crying out loud that support from international partners had flattened in the last three years. Government was at a point skeptical of some international partners plodding and pulling-out of funding aid for some facets of HIV services in the country. This formed the views of Jonathan, saying, “I, therefore, call on government at all levels, the private sector and civil society organisations to support the federal government in sustaining a robust response to HIV in Nigeria... Together we

shall end the AIDS epidemic among children.” The presidency nonetheless did not solely rely on international donors; there was the release of fund for the implementation of the President’s Comprehensive Response Plan for HIV and AIDS (PCRP). But on November 30, 2016, the government of Muhammadu Buhari through the Federal Ministry of Health developed another National Operational plan for the Elimination of Mother-to-Child Transmission of HIV (2017-2018), cried about lack of funds amongst others that characterised the programme. The Assistant Director, HIV/AIDS Division, Ministry of Health, Dr. Deborah Odoh, disclosed this at the National Conference on HIV Prevention in Abuja. According to her, the programme was aimed at curtailing the spread of HIV by 2030. It was observed that in the bid to end the Prevention of Mother-to-Child Transmission (PMTCT) of HIV, it was marred by speculations that the initiative had to address the availability of Anti-Retro Viral (ARV) drugs for HIV positive pregnant women, said the source. Checks revealed that “Nigeria had been one of the first to adopt each revision of guidelines recommended by World Health Organisation (WHO)... and wanted to use available resources to reach more pregnant women with the WHO recommended Option B alternative” since the PMTCT started in 2002. According to Odoh, “We are intensifying efforts to source funds in order to bridge the gap created by the dwindling resources

and support for PMTCT services in Nigeria. Advocacy to governors, lawmakers, the Ministry of Finance and the Ministry of Budget and Planning is being carried out by the Minister of Health to ensure that key activities are captured in the 2017 budget.’’ In his bid, Jonathan wanted Nigeria to be like Cuba where the World Health Organisation in July 2015, acknowledged as the first country in the world to eliminate Mother to Child Transmission of HIV, eMTCT, and syphilis. According to media reports, “WHO DirectorGeneral Dr Margaret Chan recognised that the elimination of transmission of a virus is one of the greatest public health achievements possible.” But in 2011, the government of Jonathan said that it recorded germane progress in the purging of Mother to Child Transmission of HIV. Dr. Jonathan as President said that the number of HIV counselling and testing sites augmented from 1,357 in 2011 to 7, 075 in 2013 while 8, 202,124 people were tested for HIV and they knew their statuses. Through the Subsidy Re-investment Programme (SURE-P) and other programmes, the Jonathan government initiated Health Systems Strengthening in order to realise the elimination of Mother-to-Child Transmission of HIV in the towns and villages of the country. The government said it partnered with international bodies for the realisation of the scheme. Yet, those who know better say that Mother-to-Child Transmission is on the rise in 2017.

Institute Inducts HMO MD, Others as Life Members Martins Ifijeh The Institute of Directors, (IOD) has inducted the Managing Director Clearline Health Management Organisation, Dr. Isaac Akinsefuni Akintunji and two other executive directors of the organisation as as permanent members of the body. They are Dr. Babatunde Ladele and Rev. Oladapo Kolawole. Akintunji, is a medical

doctor, trained in Nigeria, United Kingdom and the United States. After graduating in medicine at College of Medicine, University of Lagos in 1977, he was at Royal Air Force Institute of Aviation Medicine UK, Kings College of the University of London UK and the Civil Aerospace Medicine Institute, Oklahoma, USA for specialised Aviation Medicine training. He obtained the Advanced

Management Certificate of the Administrative and Staff College of Nigeria (ASCON). Worked at various times with the Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation and the Nigerian Airports Authority where he set up the medical department and worked for many years retiring as the Director of Medical Services for the Federal Airports Authority in 2004. On his part, Oladele, a

consultant family physician and anaethesiologist is the executive director in charge of operations and medical services at Clearline. He trained as a medical personnel at both University of Lagos and Benin. He is a member, associate fellow and fellow of several professional bodies such as Health and Managed care Association of Nigeria (HMCAN), American College of Physicians Executives

(ACPE), West African College of Physician, Guild of Medical Directors of Nigeria, Nigerian and West African Society of Anaethestists, among others. Kolawole, a Fellow Chartered Institute of Accountants (FCA)and Associate Member Chartered Institute of Taxation of Nigeria (ACTI) is the Executive Director Finance and Accounts. He is a product of ObafemiAwolowo University Ile-Ife and trained

at AbassJimoh& Co (Chartered Accountants) Lagos. He has wide range experience in accounting and taxation for both private and public enterprises with the accounting firm. He left the firm to set up his own outfit Kolawole Samuel Oladapo & Co (Chartered Accountants) in 2006. He later joined Clearline International Limited (HMO) as a Consultant and rose to become an executive director.

T H I S D AY Ëž Ëœ ÍľËœ 2017

40

BUSINESS/MONEYGUIDE

Saraki: Collateral Registry, Credit Reporting to Boost MSMEs Damilola Oyedele Senate President, Dr. Abubakar Bukola Saraki has said that the new legislations - Secured Transactions in Movable Assets Act and the Credit Reporting Act - passed by the National Assembly last June and immediately signed into law by then acting President Yemi Osinbajo will support the growth of micro, small and medium sized enterprises (MSMEs) through increased bank lending and reduce bank exposure to loan defaults through pre-examination of credit worthiness for would

be borrowers. Under the law, potential borrowers can now register assets other than land and property as collateral to secure a loan. Also, one can register his/her automobile or other worthy assets. Securing financing through loans has long been a problem for Nigerian entrepreneurs. Most MSME owners must rely on personal savings or loans from family and friends to launch their business ventures. The new law, also known and the Collateral Registry Act, allows banks to increase lending to MSMEs, while not negatively impacting their balance sheets.

Saraki who hailed the passage and the opportunity for economic and MSME growth the new laws afford Nigerians stated that “this is a win-win situation for our economy and society.� “The private sector, the federal government and the National Assembly worked together to create the enabling environment for MSMEs to grow, diversify the economy and increase employment. “We should all be proud of delivering a law that will allow many people to provide for their families and community,� he added.

BoI, AADFI Hold Peer Review on DFIs Senator Iroegbu Ă“Ă˜ ĂŒĂ&#x;ÔË The Bank of Industry (BoI) has concluded plans to host delegates from over 100 countries aimed at peer review of the performances as well as standard of Development Finance Institutions (DFIs) in Africa. The Managing Director of BoI, Mr. Olukayode Pitan, disclosed this yesterday in Abuja when the organisers of the event, Association of African Development Finance Institutions (AADFI) paid him a courtesy visit. Pitan said that Nigeria had put necessary security and logistics arrangements in place to ensure successful hosting of the 2017 AADFI conference. He said that hosting of the conference, especially this year that focuses on peer reviews

of DFIs of over 100 countries would be of immense benefit to BoI and Nigeria. He added: “There will be so many takeaways from the forthcoming conference like the peer review that the BoI will be doing with about 100 other countries. “We will also use the opportunity to network with other DFIs , learn how to be creative with funds, learn best practices, collaborations and exchanges. It will create opportunities for further trade and commerce.� Speaking further, Pitan stated that the BoI is one of the most successful DFIs in Nigeria. “Our rating is AA+ and we take risks in Nigeria that most DFIs cannot take,� he said. Earlier, the Secretary-General/ Chief Mission, AADFI, Mr. Joseph Amihere, commended BoI’s

plan to host the forum, which he noted was a prestigious event that requires enormous sacrifice. Amihere noted that AADFI is owned by government of various countries with heavy participation of countries in Europe, US and other parts of the world. According to him, the Institute is the only organisation in Africa with observer status in the World Bank. He said that this year’s forum in Nigeria would be used for reviewing of the AADFI document aimed strengthening their mandate functions on Asset Loan Management and sound policy management of financial institutions. To this end, he said the peer review was to “examine ratings of all the DFIs of all the countries and grade them�.

FirstBank Partners Visa on Mobile Payment Solution FirstBank of Nigeria Limited in partnership with Visa has introduced a mobile payment solution – mVisa. This mobile solution allows customers pay for goods and services by scanning a QR code using the FirstMobile App on their smart phones. A statement from the bank explained that under this platform, payment goes straight from the consumer’s FirstBank account into the merchant’s account and provides real-time notification to both parties. It explained that the launch of mVisa adds to the seamless multiple payment channels

FirstBank customers enjoy and customers with the FirstMobile app can now make payments from their FirstBank accounts at merchants’ locations where mVisa logo is displayed. According to the Group Head, E-Business, First Bank of Nigeria Limited, Chuma Ezirim, the bank would continue to put customers first by leading the industry in the use of technology to provide convenient and fast banking solutions. “mVisa further promotes our digital approach by delivering omni-channel experience to all our customers, while enhanc-

ing our existing offerings,� he reiterated. Furtherore, the statement described mVisa as a payment solution fully integrated into the Firstmobile app to support business transactions and lifestyles of FirstBank customers. “Existing users of the Firstmobile application can update their banking app from Google Play store, Blackberry World and Apple store to enable them access this service while FirstBank account holders who do not have the Firstmobile app yet can simply download the app and begin to enjoy this service instantly.�

Fidelity Bank Extends Support to Hospital in Bauchi Fidelity Bank said it is touching lives and impacting positively on communities in Nigeria with its Fidelity Helping Hands Project (FHHP), an initiative that enables the bank and its staff to carry out corporate social responsibility (CSR) interventions. According to Fidelity Bank, last week was the turn of a community in North-eastern part of the country to benefit from the philanthropy initiative, when its staff donated hospital equipment and renovated the maternity and child welfare clinic in Kofaran, Bauchi State. The renovated health centre was unveiled by the bank’s Managing Director/Chief Executive Officer, Fidelity Bank

Plc, Mr. Nnamdi Okonkwo. Okonkwo, who was represented by the Regional Bank Head, North-East Region, Fidelity Bank Plc, Dr. Musa Tarimbuka noted that the bank takes great pride in entrenching the culture of true and responsible citizenship among its staff. The bank chief, according to a statement, said government alone cannot solve all of societal problems and called on private sector organisations and corporate bodies to lend their support to government, particularly as it relates to the provision of basic infrastructure and social amenities. “Giving is a culture at Fidelity Bank and we will continue to

encourage this. Under the FHHP initiative, the bank matches 100 per cent whatever amount that is contributed by staff to fund CSR projects of their choices. “This project was funded by the combined contributions of individual staff members of Bauchi Main Branch and the bank,� he added. Also speaking at the event, Chairman, State Primary Health Community Development Agency, Bauchi State, Adamu Ibrahim Gamawa commended the laudable effort of Fidelity Bank. “Corporate and nongovernmental organisations must emulate the pace setting initiative of Fidelity Bank towards promoting societal development� Adamu said.

Saraki

MARKET INDICATORS DECEMBER 2016 -- Narrow Money (M1)

11,520,166.67

---- Currency Outside Banks

1,820,415.90

---- Demand Deposits

9,699,750.76

-- Quasi Money

12,320,225.75

Net Foreign Assets (NFA)

9,353,504.03

Net Domestic Assets(NDA)

14,486,888.39

-- Net Domestic Credit (NDC)

26,774,684.47

---- Credit to Government (Net)

4,595,579.89

---- Memo: Credit to Govt. (Net) less FMA

7,436,917.79

---- Memo: Fed. and Mirror Accounts (FMA)

-2,841,337.90

---- Credit to Private Sector (CPS)

22,374,718.08

--Other Assets Net

-12,483,409.58

Reserve Money (Base Money)

5,837,322.41

--Currency in Circulation

2,179,174.28

--Banks Reserves

3,318,344.71 Ëž Ă™Ă&#x;ĂœĂ?Ă? Ě‹

MONEY MARKET INDICATORS (%) December 2016 Inter-Bank Call Rate

10.39

Monetary Policy Rate (MPR

14.00

Treasury Bill Rate

13.96

Savings Deposit Rate

4.18

1 Month Deposit Rate

8.53

3 Months Deposit Rate

8.80

6 Months Deposit Rate

10.23

12 Months Deposit Rate

10.76

Prime Lending rate

17.09

Maximum Lending Rate

28.55

Ëž Ă™Ă˜Ă?ĂžĂ‹ĂœĂŁ ÙÖÓĂ?ĂŁ Ă‹ĂžĂ? Ě‹ ͯͲϹ

OPEC DAILY BASKET PRICE AS AT TUESDAY, 5 SEPTEMBER 2017

The price of OPEC basket of fourteen crudes stood at $50.82 a barrel on Tuesday, compared with $50.20 the previous day, according to OPEC Secretariat calculations. The OPEC Reference Basket of Crudes (ORB) is made up of the following: Saharan Blend (Algeria), Girassol (Angola), Oriente (Ecuador), ZaďŹ ro (Equatorial Guinea), Rabi Light (Gabon), Iran Heavy (Islamic Republic of Iran), Basra Light (Iraq), Kuwait Export (Kuwait), Es Sider (Libya), Bonny Light (Nigeria), Qatar Marine (Qatar), Arab Light (Saudi Arabia), Murban (UAE) and Merey (Venezuela).

˾ THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 7, 2017

41

Nigeria’s top 50 stocks based on market fundamentals

6-Sep-17

5-Sep-17

% Change

Capitalisation

EPS

P/E

P/S

Div. Yld

Price/ Book Value

Table 1 Market Statistics Mkt Indicators

Open 5-Sep-17

NSE All Share Index NSE Market Cap (N'Trillion)

35,403.92 12.20

35,609.07 12.27

0.58% 0.58%

149.18 11.62

150.14 11.69

0.65% 0.65%

01 Dangote Cement Plc

207.12

205.00

1.03%

3,529,429,893,723.60

13.34

15.95

4.93

3.76%

4.40

02 Nigerian Breweries Plc

182.60

180.10

1.39%

1,447,853,822,148.80

3.58

51.23

4.64

1.96%

8.77

03 Guaranty Trust Bank Plc

38.51

39.00

-1.26%

1,133,394,711,916.24

4.49

8.79

2.78

4.48%

2.16

1,220.00

1,220.00

0.00%

967,040,627,440.00

10.00

122.02

5.32

2.38%

31.32

05 Zenith Bank Plc

23.76

23.10

2.86%

745,980,692,355.36

4.13

5.52

1.41

7.89%

1.02

Table 3 Top 5 Gainers

06 Stanbic IBTC Holdings Plc

39.01

38.52

1.27%

390,100,000,000.00

2.85

14.20

2.59

0.25%

2.88

Stock

07 Ecobank Transnational Incorporated

18.00

17.95

0.28%

330,291,921,870.00

0.68

26.61

0.56

3.44%

0.53

08 United Bank for Africa Plc

8.87

9.01

-1.55%

321,799,398,476.14

1.99

4.81

0.91

6.26%

0.78

09 Access Bank Plc

9.91

9.90

0.10%

286,676,198,863.21

13.18

0.76

0.76

5.50%

0.64

68.39

68.39

0.00%

271,540,925,107.55

0.03 2,338.93

3.81

1.90%

6.49

482.00

465.98

3.44%

266,695,570,866.00 -82.02

-5.88

4.21

3.30%

0.71

12 Lafarge Africa Plc

52.80

54.14

-2.48%

240,498,815,568.00

3.71

15.36

1.18

5.26%

1.04

13 FBN Holdings Plc

6.02

5.98

0.67%

216,089,662,607.84

0.16

35.99

0.35

2.55%

0.35

14 Dangote Sugar Refinery Plc

13.05

13.19

-1.06%

156,600,000,000.00

2.01

6.92

0.77

3.60%

2.19

15 Unilever Nigeria Plc

38.05

37.75

0.79%

143,954,422,312.50

0.81

49.26

2.17

0.13%

12.95

16 Guinness Nig Plc

87.39

79.27

10.24%

131,599,568,749.32

-3.06

-25.17

1.12

4.16%

2.94

17 International Breweries Plc

35.57

35.57

0.00%

117,176,446,889.60

0.02 1,642.11

4.58

0.68%

11.11

233.00

233.00

0.00%

79,108,588,021.00

43.58

5.43

0.28

5.92%

3.41

6.53

6.60

-1.06%

78,586,061,377.82

0.29

23.59

0.18

10.95%

0.43

20 Flour Mills Nig. Plc

29.00

29.00

0.00%

76,102,878,423.00

3.71

7.82

0.14

6.90%

0.72

21 Forte Oil Plc.

49.70

49.70

0.00%

64,733,310,819.10

3.66

13.66

0.50

6.90%

1.38

22 Okomu Oil Palm Plc

65.64

65.64

0.00%

62,614,652,400.00

5.15

12.75

4.36

0.15%

3.68

166.00

167.50

-0.90%

59,858,813,492.00

22.61

7.69

0.67

4.14%

2.92

90.30

90.00

0.33%

57,845,309,778.90 -21.86

-4.21

0.52

2.39%

5.47

1.30

1.33

-2.26%

50,337,296,652.50

-0.03

-43.98

0.83

0.00%

0.57

30.87

30.87

0.00%

40,748,400,000.00

-2.89

-11.83

0.32

4.39%

0.64

1.31

1.30

0.77%

37,940,987,256.52

0.39

3.54

0.26

11.68%

0.21

13.00

13.00

0.00%

34,442,698,914.00

0.91

14.26

1.88

4.23%

4.28

1.03

1.06

-2.83%

29,654,130,669.78

0.18

5.86

0.27

8.57%

0.35

14.50

14.60

-0.68%

27,852,533,611.50

3.37

4.44

0.38

6.68%

0.38

1.18

1.13

4.42%

27,329,258,982.24

-0.29

-4.02

0.13

0.00%

0.12

32 PZ Cussons Nigeria Plc

25.94

27.30

-4.98%

25,940,000,000.00

5.69

4.73

1.87

0.37%

0.72

33 Glaxo Smithkline Consumer Nig. Plc

21.00

21.01

-0.05%

25,113,406,248.00

3.02

6.95

1.67

1.43%

1.50

34 Cap Plc

34.50

34.50

0.00%

24,150,000,000.00

2.17

15.89

3.54

3.33%

16.77

35 FCMB Group Plc

1.10

1.10

0.00%

21,782,981,859.10

0.09

13.13

0.13

8.93%

0.12

36 Custodian And Allied Insurance Plc

3.50

3.60

-2.78%

20,586,524,682.50

1.06

3.35

0.51

3.93%

0.64

37 Mansard Insurance Plc

1.95

1.95

0.00%

20,475,000,000.00

0.25

7.57

0.96

2.63%

0.99

10.90

10.90

0.00%

20,472,402,236.00

-0.64

-18.74

0.70

10.77%

2.15

39 Wema Bank Plc

0.51

0.51

0.00%

19,672,977,701.31

0.07

7.59

0.37

0.00%

0.41

40 Honeywell Flour Mill Plc

2.05

2.01

1.99%

16,256,905,198.90

-0.40

-5.19

0.35

7.62%

0.50

41 Continental Reinsurance Plc

1.45

1.45

0.00%

15,040,479,252.40

0.30

4.51

0.54

8.96%

0.69

42 Cement Co. Of North.Nig. Plc

8.90

9.00

-1.11%

11,184,432,117.40

1.29

6.96

0.70

1.11%

0.90

43 Skye Bank Plc

0.63

0.64

-1.56%

8,744,589,888.30

-2.93

-0.21

0.05

49.18%

0.08

44 Wapic Insurance Plc

0.50

0.50

0.00%

6,691,369,126.00

0.18

2.78

0.85

6.00%

0.41

45 Unity Bank Plc

0.56

0.55

1.82%

6,546,029,247.52

0.19

3.16

0.08

0.00%

0.08

46 Resort Savings & Loans Plc

0.50

0.50

0.00%

5,664,866,202.00

0.03

17.71

3.72

0.00%

1.94

47 UACN Property Development Co. Limited

2.91

2.91

0.00%

5,001,562,485.45

-0.90

-3.23

0.79

24.05%

0.15

48 Nigerian Aviation Handling Company Plc

3.01

3.10

-2.90%

4,888,898,437.50

0.36

9.51

0.69

5.88%

0.85

49 Fidson Healthcare Plc

3.11

3.18

-2.20%

4,665,000,000.00

0.50

6.46

0.41

1.56%

0.69

50 AIICO Insurance Plc

0.55

0.57

-3.51%

3,811,612,464.00

1.48

0.38

0.14

8.93%

0.45

04 Nestle Nigeria Plc

10 Presco Plc 11 Seplat Petroleum Dev. Co. Ltd

18 Total Nigeria Plc 19 Oando Plc

23 Mobil Oil Nig Plc 24 7-Up Bottling Comp. Plc 25 Transnational Corporation Of Nigeria Plc 26 Julius Berger Nig. Plc 27 Fidelity Bank Plc 28 National Salt Co. Nig. Plc 29 Sterling Bank Plc 30 U A C N Plc 31 Diamond Bank Plc

38 Cadbury Nigeria Plc

TOTAL

11,690,566,636,438.90

TOTAL MARKET CAP

12,273,475,784,608.10

% OF MARKET CAP Annotation - MA* = Simple Moving Average

95.25%

Thisday BGL 50 Index Thisday BGL 50 Market Cap (N'Trillion)

Open 5-Sep-17

Guinness Nig Plc Diamond Bank Plc Seplat Petroleum Dev. Co. Ltd Zenith Bank Plc Honeywell Flour Mill Plc

79.27 1.13 465.98 23.10 2.01

Close 6-Sep-17

Change %

Close Change % 6-Sep-17 87.39 1.18 482.00 23.76 2.05

10.24% 4.42% 3.44% 2.86% 1.99%

Table 4 Top 5 Losers Stock

Open 5-Sep-17

PZ Cussons Nigeria Plc AIICO Insurance Plc Nigerian Aviation Handling Company Plc Sterling Bank Plc Custodian And Allied Insurance Plc

Close Change % 6-Sep-17

27.30 0.57 3.10

25.94 0.55 3.01

-4.98% -3.51% -2.90%

1.06 3.60

1.03 3.50

-2.83% -2.78%

Market halts losing streak with 0.58% appreciation Market pulse on the Nigerian Stock Exchange (NSE) today - Wednesday, September 6th, 2017 ended positive as the market closed green. This was further highlighted by positive performance from the NSE Subsectors: Banking, Consumer Goods and Oil & Gas (Save Insurance). Also, trading activities increased in volume as 281.84 million shares worth N5.42 billion in 4,066 deals exchanged hands today. This is an increase from the 230.03 million shares worth N4.77 billion in 4,188 trades were carried out on Tuesday. Topping in volume terms are: Guaranty Trust Bank Plc, Access Bank Plc and FBN Holdings Plc; while Guaranty Trust Bank Plc and Nestle Nigeria Plc ended trading as the most active stocks in value terms. The All Share Index (NSEASI) closed positive with 0.58% (+205.15) increase to close at 35,609.07 from 35,403.92 the previous trading day. Market capitalization appreciated in tandem to N12.27 trillion from N12.20 trillion of prior trading day. Similarly, the Thisday BGL 50 Index closes with a increase of 0.65% to 150.14 from 149.18 recorded at the end of the previous trading day, while its market capitalization stood at N11.69 trillion from N11.62 trillion of the previous trading day. A total number of 22 stocks gained on the bourse today while 23 stocks declined, leaving 55 stocks unchanged. Leading the pack was Guinness Nig. Plc led with a gain of 10.24% to close at N87.39 per share. It was followed by Red Star Express Plc with a gain of 9.82% to close at N4.81 per share. Others on the gainers’ list include: Newrest Asl Nigeria Plc, A.G. Leventis Nigeria Plc and Diamond Bank Plc. On the decliners’ list, PZ Cussons Nigeria Plc led with a loss of 4.98% to close at N25.94 share. It was followed by Morrison Plc with a loss of 4.88% to close at N0.78 per share. Others on the decliners list include: Linkage Assurance, First Aluminium Nig. Plc and AIICO Insurance Plc.. Guinness Nig. Plc emerged the toast of investors as it topped the Thisday BGL 50 Index gainers’ list with a gain of 10.24% to close at N87.39 per share. It was followed by Diamond Bank Plc with a gain of 4.42% to close at N1.18 per share. Others on the gainers chart include: Seplat Petroleum Dev. Co. Ltd, Zenith Bank Plc and Honeywell Flour Mill Plc. On the decliners’ list, PZ Cussons Nigeria Plc led with a loss of 4.98% to close at N25.94 per share. It was closely followed by AIICO Insurance Plc with a loss of 3.51% to close at N0.55 per share. Others on the decliners’ list are: Nigerian Aviation Handling Company Plc, Sterling Bank Plc and Custodian And Allied Insurance Plc.

REQUIRED DISCLOSURE This report has been prepared by BGL Plc. BGL Plc does and seeks to do business with companies covered in its research reports. As a result, the firm may have a conflict of interest that could affect the objectivity of this report. Investors should use this report as one of many other factors in making their investment decisions.

For more details go to www.thisdaylive.com

42

T H I S D AY Ëž Ëœ ÍľËœ Í°ÍŽÍŻÍľ

MARKET NEWS

PZ Cussons Grows ProďŹ t to N3.8bn, to Pay N1.9bn in Dividends Goddy Egene PZ Cussons Nigeria Plc yesterday recorded a profit after tax of N3.886 billion for the year ended May 31, 2017, showing an increase of 73 per cent over the N2.129 billion posted in 2016. The audited results released by the company to the Nigerian Stock Exchange (NSE) indicated that the company posted a revenue of N79.65 billion, up

by 14.5 per cent from N69.52 billion posted in 2016. In line with the high inflationary trend during the review period, cost of sales went up from N49 billion to N51 billion, while sales and distribution expenses rose from N8.825 billion to N9.09 billion. However, net finance cost fell from N387 million to N195 million. Consequently, profit before tax stood at N4.811 billion in

T H E

2017, up from N3.148 billion, while profit after tax grew to N3.886 billion, from N2.129 billion in 2016. The directors have recommended a dividend of N1.98 billion, which is 50 kobo per share for the shareholders. According to the company, it has adapted its management structures to create a truly customer care organisation, saying as part of a global organisation,

N I G E R I A N

it has benefitted from global innovations and initiatives of the group. “In this breadth, our supply chain processes and sales functions have been integrated as a single structure across the globe and across the region,� it said. PZ Cussons Nigeria noted that it is confident of its brands which are leading in the market segments they participate. “We are going to sustain the

STO C K

current initiatives that have proved to be positive and effective. We will also keep the focus on key brands,� it said. Meanwhile, trading at the stock market was bullish for the first time in five days following the return of the bulls yesterday. The NSE All-Share Index appreciated by 0.58 per cent to close at 35,609.07, compared with the depreciation of 0.28 per cent recorded the previ-

E XC H A N G E

ous day. Similarly, the market capitalisation appreciated today by 0.58 per cent to close at N12.27 trillion. The appreciation recorded in the share prices of Dangote Cement, Stanbic IBTC, Zenith Bank, Guinness, and Nigerian Breweries was mainly responsible for the gain recorded in the Index. Investors traded 281.83 million shares worth N4.77 billion in 4,066 deals.

43

˾ THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 7, 2017

MARKET NEWS

DMO Commences Pre-offer Sensitisation for N100bn Sukuk Goddy Egene The Debt Management Office (DMO) has commenced activities preparatory to the issuance of the much anticipated N100billion Sukuk, which is non-interest bearing bond. According to a statement from DMO, the agency will commence a national road show that will be led by its Director-General, Ms. Patience Oniha on Thursday (today).

DMO said the road show would be taken across major cities in Nigeria such as Kano, Kaduna, Lagos and Port Harcourt. The team would be accompanied by its Financial Advisers, Lotus Capital Financial Services Limited and FBN Merchant Bank Plc. “The road show is to create awareness about the Sovereign Sukuk and sensitise target investors about the features and benefits of the financial instrument,” the agency said. The DMO had announced

A Mutual fund (Unit Trust) is an investment vehicle managed by a SEC (Securities and Exchange Commission) registered Fund Manager. Investors with similar objectives buy units of the Fund so that the Fund Manager can buy securities that willl generate their desired return. An ETF (Exchange Traded Fund) is a type of fund which owns the assets (shares of stock, bonds, oil futures, gold bars, foreign currency, etc.) and divides ownership of those assets into shares. Investors can buy these ‘shares’ on the

its intention to issue a Sovereign Sukuk in the domestic market as part of measures to fund the 2017 budget deficit. Apart from serving as alternative source of funding for the government, the Sukuk will also serve to diversify the investor base for Federal Government of Nigeria (FGN securities, promote financial inclusion and deepen the domestic capital market. Proceeds from the Sukuk issuance, according to the DMO, will be used to finance specific road projects.

floor of the Nigerian Stock Exchange. A REIT (Real Estate Investment Trust) is an investment vehicle that allows both small and large investors to part-own real estate ventures (eg. Offices, Houses, Hospitals) in proportion to their investments. The assets are divided into shares that are traded on the Nigerian Stock Exchange. GUIDE TO DATA: Date: All fund prices are quoted in Naira as at 5-September-2017, unless otherwise stated.

Sukuk are asset-based securities, not debt instruments, and represents ownership in a tangible asset, service, project, business or joint venture. “This is why Sukuk fits into the DMO debt strategy of borrowing to finance capital projects contained in the budget. This ensures that Government borrowings are used to finance development projects which have multiple economic and social benefits for citizens,” DMO said. The debut Sovereign Sukuk

is for N00 billion with a tenor of Seven years, and has been certified as ethically compliant by the Financial Regulation Advisory Council of Experts of the Central Bank of Nigeria. Benefits to be derived from investment in the Sukuk, according the DMO, include “safety, regular income which are tax free and liquidity as they will be listed and traded on The Nigerian Stock Exchange and the FMDQ OTC Securities Exchange Plc.” The product is also useful

as collateral to access loans from banks. DMO disclosed that the offer for subscription will open in the week after the road show and will be advertised in major newspapers. It is expected that the Sukuk will attract huge subscriptions from a wide range of institutional and retail investors including fund managers, associations and groups as the minimum amount that an investor can purchase has been fixed at N10,000.

Offer price: The price at which units of a trust or ETF are bought by investors. Bid Price: The price at which Investors redeem (sell) units of a trust or ETF. Yield/Total Return: Denotes the total return an investor would have earned on his investment. Money Market Funds report Yield while others report Year- to-date Total Return. NAV: Is value per share of the real estate assets held by a REIT on a specific date.

DAILY PRICE LIST FOR MUTUAL FUNDS, REITS and ETFS MUTUAL FUNDS / UNIT TRUSTS AFRINVEST ASSET MANAGEMENT LTD aaml@afrinvest.com Web: www.afrinvest.com; Tel: +234 1 270 1680 Fund Name Bid Price Offer Price Yield / T-Rtn Afrinvest Equity Fund 170.86 171.33 34.46% Nigeria International Debt Fund 230.59 231.14 9.00% ALTERNATIVE CAPITAL PARTNERS LTD info@acapng.com Web: www.acapng.com, Tel: +234 1 291 2406, +234 1 291 2868 Fund Name Bid Price Offer Price Yield / T-Rtn ACAP Canary Growth Fund 0.81 0.82 16.36% AIICO CAPITAL LTD ammf@aiicocapital.com Web: www.aiicocapital.com, Tel: +234-1-2792974 Fund Name Bid Price Offer Price Yield / T-Rtn AIICO Money Market Fund 100.00 100.00 18.79% ARM INVESTMENT MANAGERS LTD enquiries@arminvestmentcenter.com Web: www.arm.com.ng; Tel: 0700 CALLARM (0700 225 5276) Fund Name Bid Price Offer Price Yield / T-Rtn ARM Aggressive Growth Fund 17.08 17.60 38.36% ARM Discovery Fund 360.12 370.98 25.40% ARM Ethical Fund 25.51 26.27 14.16% ARM Money Market Fund 1.00 1.00 18.20% AXA MANSARD INVESTMENTS LIMITED investmentcare@axamansard.com Web: www.axamansard.com; Tel: +2341-4488482 Fund Name Bid Price Offer Price Yield / T-Rtn AXA Mansard Equity Income Fund 141.76 142.76 34.78% AXA Mansard Money Market Fund 1.00 1.00 18.68% CHAPELHILL DENHAM MANAGEMENT LTD investmentmanagement@chapelhilldenham.com Web: www.chapelhilldenham.com, Tel: +234 461 0691 Fund Name Bid Price Offer Price Yield / T-Rtn Chapelhill Denham Money Market Fund 100.00 100.00 19.60% Paramount Equity Fund 11.50 11.80 22.89% Women's Investment Fund 93.23 95.62 10.21% CORDROS ASSET MANAGEMENT LIMITED assetmgtteam@cordros.com Web: www.cordros.com, Tel: 019036947 Fund Name Bid Price Offer Price Yield / T-Rtn Cordros Money Market Fund 100.00 100.00 19.30% FBN CAPITAL ASSET MANAGEMENT LTD invest@fbnquest.com Web: www.fbnquest.com; Tel: +234-81 0082 0082 Fund Name Bid Price Offer Price Yield / T-Rtn FBN Fixed Income Fund 1,121.52 1,122.62 10.63% FBN Heritage Fund 140.64 141.26 25.89% FBN Money Market Fund 100.00 100.00 18.17% FBN Nigeria Eurobond (USD) Fund - Institutional $110.52 $111.19 7.31% FBN Nigeria Eurobond (USD) Fund - Retail $109.53 $110.21 7.10% FBN Nigeria Smart Beta Equity Fund 149.51 151.68 32.79% FIRST CITY ASSET MANAGEMENT LTD fcamhelpdesk@fcmb.com Web: www.fcamltd.com; Tel: +234 1 462 2596 Fund Name Bid Price Offer Price Yield / T-Rtn Legacy Equity Fund 1.31 1.34 40.96% Legacy Short Maturity (NGN) Fund 2.85 2.85 11.03% FSDH ASSET MANAGEMENT LTD coralfunds@fsdhgroup.com Web: www.fsdhaml.com; Tel: 01-270 4884-5; 01-280 9740-1 Fund Name Bid Price Offer Price Yield / T-Rtn Coral Growth Fund 2,873.67 2,918.12 30.32% Coral Income Fund 2,341.24 2,341.24 11.26% GREENWICH ASSET MANAGEMENT LIMITED assetmanagement@gtlgroup.com Web: www.gtlgroup.com ; Tel: +234 1 4619261-2 Fund Name Bid Price Offer Price Yield / T-Rtn Greenwich Plus Money Market Fund 100.00 100.00 15.85% INVESTMENT ONE FUNDS MANAGEMENT LTD enquiries@investment-one.com Web: www.investment-one.com; Tel: +234 812 992 1045,+234 1 448 8888 Fund Name Bid Price Offer Price Yield / T-Rtn Abacus Money Market Fund 1.00 1.00 18.37% Vantage Balanced Fund 2.06 2.08 22.47% Vantage Guaranteed Income Fund 1.00 1.00 18.07%

LOTUS CAPITAL LTD fincon@lotuscapitallimited.com Web: www.lotuscapitallimited.com; Tel: +234 1-291 4626 / +234 1-291 4624 Fund Name Bid Price Offer Price Yield / T-Rtn Lotus Halal Investment Fund 1.12 1.14 13.03% Lotus Halal Fixed Income Fund 1,040.37 1,040.37 8.21% MERISTEM WEALTH MANAGEMENT LTD info@meristemwealth.com Web: http://www.meristemwealth.com/funds/ ; Tel: +234 1-4488260 Fund Name Bid Price Offer Price Yield / T-Rtn Meristem Equity Market Fund 12.65 12.75 30.87% Meristem Money Market Fund 10.00 10.00 18.96% PAC ASSET MANAGEMENT LTD info@pacassetmanagement.com Web: www.pacassetmanagement.com/mutualfunds; Tel: +234 1 271 8632 Fund Name Bid Price Offer Price Yield / T-Rtn PACAM Balanced Fund 1.16 1.18 16.79% PACAM Fixed Income Fund 10.77 10.83 3.63% PACAM Money Market Fund 10.00 10.00 17.29% SCM CAPITAL LIMITED info@scmcapitalng.com Web: www.scmcapitalng.com; Tel: +234 1-280 2226,+234 1- 280 2227 Fund Name Bid Price Offer Price Yield / T-Rtn SCM Capital Frontier Fund 119.17 121.35 17.64% SFS CAPITAL NIGERIA LTD investments@sfsnigeria.com Web: www.sfsnigeria.com, Tel: +234 (01) 2801400 Fund Name Bid Price Offer Price Yield / T-Rtn SFS Fixed Income Fund 1.36 1.36 9.06% STANBIC IBTC ASSET MANAGEMENT LTD assetmanagement@stanbicibtc.com Web: www.stanbicibtcassetmanagement.com; Tel: +234 1 280 1266; 0700 MUTUALFUNDS Fund Name Bid Price Offer Price Yield / T-Rtn Stanbic IBTC Balanced Fund 2,143.90 2,155.15 17.06% Stanbic IBTC Bond Fund 162.70 162.70 5.68% Stanbic IBTC Ethical Fund 0.95 0.96 24.03% Stanbic IBTC Guaranteed Investment Fund 208.43 208.43 11.53% Stanbic IBTC Iman Fund 167.85 170.01 29.28% Stanbic IBTC Money Market Fund 100.00 100.00 18.55% Stanbic IBTC Nigerian Equity Fund 9,276.41 9,375.90 22.27% UNITED CAPITAL ASSET MANAGEMENT LTD unitedcapitalplcgroup.com Web: www.unitedcapitalplcgroup.com; Tel: +234 803 306 2887 Fund Name Bid Price Offer Price Yield / T-Rtn United Capital Balanced Fund 1.29 1.30 15.25% United Capital Bond Fund 1.38 1.38 13.43% United Capital Equity Fund 0.85 0.83 23.68% United Capital Money Market Fund 1.00 1.00 18.00% ZENITH ASSETS MANAGEMENT LTD info@zenith-funds.com Web: www.zenith-funds.com; Tel: +234 1-2784219 Fund Name Bid Price Offer Price Yield / T-Rtn Zenith Equity Fund 12.29 12.48 26.56% Zenith Ethical Fund 13.02 13.16 18.88% Zenith Income Fund 18.57 18.57 12.34%

REITS NAV Per Share

Yield / T-Rtn

11.41 129.68

1.01% 4.61%

Bid Price

Offer Price

Yield / T-Rtn

10.46 102.72

10.56 104.65

21.29% 35.55%

Fund Name FSDH UPDC Real Estate Investment Fund SFS Skye Shelter Fund

EXCHANGE TRADED FUNDS Fund Name Lotus Halal Equity Exchange Traded Fund Stanbic IBTC ETF 30 Fund

VETIVA FUND MANAGERS LTD Web: www.vetiva.com; Tel: +234 1 453 0697 Fund Name Vetiva Banking Exchange Traded Fund Vetiva Consumer Goods Exchange Traded Fund Vetiva Griffin 30 Exchange Traded Fund Vetiva Industrial Goods Exchange Traded Fund Vetiva S&P Nigeria Sovereign Bond Exchange Traded Fund

funds@vetiva.com Bid Price

Offer Price

Yield / T-Rtn

4.31 9.17 16.75 19.77 132.61

4.35 9.25 16.85 19.97 134.61

55.71% 30.27% 40.16% 23.80% 2.85%

The value of investments and the income from them may fall as well as rise. Past performance is a guide and not an indication of future returns. Fund prices published in this edition are also available on each fund manager’s website and FMAN’s website at www.fman.com.ng. Fund prices are supplied by the operator of the relevant fund and are published for information purposes only.

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INTERNATIONAL

email:foreigndesk@thisdaylive.com

Hurricane Irma: ‘Casualties Expected’ in Caribbean - Macron Hurricane Irma has caused considerable damage on French island territories in the Caribbean, and casualties are expected, France’s president says. The impact of Irma on Saint Martin and St Barts would be “hard and cruelâ€?, Emmanuel Macron added. SigniďŹ cant damage is also being

reported in the Dutch section of Saint Martin. The category ďŹ ve hurricane, the highest possible level, has sustained wind speeds reaching 295km/h (185mph). French Interior Minister GĂŠrard Collomb earlier said Irma had caused major oors, and destroyed buildings, including four of the

“most solidâ€? buildings on Saint Martin The most powerful Atlantic storm in a decade ďŹ rst hit Antigua and Barbuda, before moving on to Saint Martin and Saint BarthĂŠlemy - the French holiday destination popularly known as St Barts. Its“extremely dangerous coreâ€? is forecast by the US National

North Korea Nuclear Crisis: Test ‘Caused Landslides’ North Korea’s recent nuclear test appears to have triggered several landslides, according to what are believed to be the ďŹ rst satellite images of the aftermath. Sunday’s test took place underground at the mountainous Punggye-ri site. Analysis group 38 North published pictures which show“more numerous and widespreadâ€? disturbances than before. The test unleashed a powerful 6.3-magnitude tremor which was felt across the border in China. North Korea has conducted six nuclear tests so far, all at Punggye-ri, which consists of a system of tunnels dug beneath

a mountainous region. 38 North said its latest pictures, which were taken a day after the latest test, showed landslides as well as numerous areas of gravel and scree ďŹ elds which were“loftedâ€? from the tremors. Lofting occurs when shockwaves force material to be lifted up from the ground, and the material falls back down in the same place. The disturbances took place near Mount Mantap, the highest point in the test site. They were“more numerous and widespread than what we have seen from any of the ďŹ ve tests North Korea previously conductedâ€?, the site’s analysis said.

But it added that while the test triggered a powerful tremor, it did not appear to have caused the crater to collapse. Some experts believe however that the nuclear test did cause an underground tunnel at Punggye-ri to collapse. Sunday’s bomb was thought to have had a power range from 50 to 120 kilotonnes. A 50kt device would be about three times the size of the US bomb that destroyed Hiroshima in 1945. The repeated tests have prompted concerns about the test site’s longevity, although experts are divided.

Hurricane Centerto move over parts of the northern Virgin Islands on Wednesday, passing near or just north of Puerto Rico, then passing near or just north of the coast of the Dominican Republic on Thursday. Thousands of people have been evacuated from at-risk areas across the Caribbean. Residents have ocked to shops for food, water, and emergency supplies, and airports have closed on several islands which are popular holiday destinations. In the US, Florida’s Key West area has ordered a mandatory evacuation, with landfall expected at the weekend. The French government said earlier it was worried about thousands of people who had refused to seek shelter on the islands.

There was no immediate news of the number of casualties but ofďŹ cials in the nearby French territory of Guadeloupe conďŹ rmed the following damage: t 0O 4U #BSUT the ďŹ re brigade station has been ooded with a metre of water, with engines out of service and crews sheltering on an upper oor; there is a total power blackout; many roofs have been blown off t 0O 4BJOU Martin, the prefecture building has been partially destroyed, with the prefect (chief ofďŹ cer) and 23 other people sheltering in a secure room; the ďŹ re station is out of order; there is a power blackout; several roofs at the police station have been blown off In the Dutch territory, known as Sint Maarten, the airport has been closed with photos showing

debris strewn across the departures area and outside. There has been a total power blackout, streets are littered with debris, cars are underwater and boats in the ports have been destroyed, Dutch broadcaster /04 SFQPSUT JO %VUDI France’s interior minister said three emergency teams were being sent to the islands, two from France and one from Guadeloupe. 'SFODI 0WFSTFBT 5FSSJUPSJFT Minister Annick Girardin said the hurricane had caused major ooding in low-lying areas, and coastlines were being “battered extremely violentlyâ€? by the sea. Some 40,000 people live in the French part of Saint Martin, with around the same number estimated to live on the Dutch side. About 9,000 people live on St Barts.

US Seeks to Cut Off Oil to North Korea, Blacklist Kim Jong-Un The United States on Wednesday asked the UN Security Council to slap an oil embargo on North Korea and freeze the assets of leader Kim Jong-Un, in response to Pyongyang’s sixth and most powerful nuclear test. A US-drafted resolution obtained by AFP also called for banning textile exports and ending payments made to North Korean laborers sent abroad, further depriving the regime of revenue to pursue its military programs. The United States circulated the proposed resolution to the 14 other council members two days after Ambassador Nikki Haley called for the “strongest possible measures� to be imposed on North Korea. Haley said on Monday that the United States was seeking a vote on the new sanctions

on September 11. The draft text takes aim directly at North Korea’s leadership with a freeze on leader Kim’s assets as well as those of the ruling Worker’s Party of Korea and the government of North Korea. Kim would be added to a UN sanctions blacklist that would subject him to a global travel ban, along with four other senior North Korean ofďŹ cials, according to the draft. The state-owned Air Koryo airline would also be hit with an assets freeze, as would the Korean People’s Army, the ruling party’s central military commission and seven other government or party departments. North Korea on Sunday triggered global alarm when it detonated what it described

as a hydrogen bomb designed for a long-range missile, which was followed by signs that Pyongyang was preparing a new missile launch. The United States presented the new raft of measures after President Donald Trump spoke by phone with his Chinese counterpart Xi Jinping and told him that military action against North Korea was not his â€œďŹ rst choiceâ€?. China, North Korea’s main ally and trading partner, and Russia argue that sanctions alone will not resolve the North Korea crisis and are calling for talks with Pyongyang.

Rohingya Crisis: Myanmar ‘Mining Border’ as Refugees Flee Bangladesh has summoned the Myanmar ambassador in Dhaka to protest against the planting of landmines along the border between the two countries. It comes amid growing tensions over the huge inux of Rohingya Muslims eeing violence in Myanmar. A senior ofďŹ cial in Bangladesh said they believed Myanmar government forces were planting the landmines to stop the Rohingya returning to their villages. But a Myanmar military source said no landmines had been planted recently. The BBC’s Sanjoy Majumder, who is on the Bangladeshi side of the border, said there had been at least three injuries caused by landmines this week. When asked whether Bangladesh had lodged a complaint about the mines, Foreign Secretary Shahidul Haque said “yesâ€? but did not elaborate further. The UN has said the number of Rohingya refugees crossing from Myanmar into Bangladesh has surged since 25 August.

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GDP Growth: Nigeria Not Yet Out of Trouble, Says PDP Makarfi warns members against litigation Stop threatening me with expulsion, says Kashamu Onyebuchi Ezigbo Ă“Ă˜ ĂŒĂ&#x;ÔË The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has said the country is not yet out of the woods economically despite exiting recession as claimed by the federal government. The opposition party said the Nigerian economy is still very weak, feeble and insufficient to herald the sort of celebration and backslapping being displayed by officials of the All Progressives Congress (APC)-led administration. Against the background of brewing crisis in some of its state chapters, especially the resistance by some stakeholders in the Ogun State branch to the directives of the party, the Chairman of the National Caretaker Committee, Senator Ahmed Makarfi, said the party would not hesitate to sanction erring members. Speaking during the inauguration of the state caretaker committees for Adamawa and Osun States at the party’s national secretariat, Makarfi said getting out of recession can be because of one or two indices which might not even have direct bearing on ordinary citizens. He said looking at the figures collectively and holistically, it would  seem as if one is already out of a problem but “you are not really out of a problem. “You will be out of a problem

when people are able to eat well, people are secured, people find jobs, infrastructures are in good condition, students will not find it difficult to pay common tuition fees, because all these issues are there and then we say we are out of recession and we are clapping?,â€? he said. Makarfi said what PDP intends to do is correct things when it comes back to power but that in the interim, it would pressure those in power to make sure that the conditions of every Nigerians is better. Also, in a statement issued yesterday by its spokesman, Dayo Adeyeye, PDP said the figures released by the Nigeria Bureau of Statistics is a marginal improvement compared to -0.91 per cent (revised) in Q1 2017 & -1.49 per cent in Q2 2016. It said that such a growth is insufficient and insignificant to engender national prosperity. The NBS on Tuesday released its second quarter Gross Domestic Product (GDP) report which showed a growth of the economy for the first time in six  consecutive quarters. PDP said the import of this was that Nigeria had exited its longest recession in almost three decades. According to the report, the Nigerian Economy grew by 0.55 per cent in Q2 2017, a marginal improvement compared to -0.91 per cent (revised) in Q1 2017 & -1.49 per cent in Q2 2016.Â

But the PDP observed that the growth falls way short of the 6.54per cent GDP growth in the corresponding quarter of 2014, which was our last full year in office. It said that figure falls significantly below the 3.96 per cent growth in the first quarter in 2015, which was our last full quarter in office. Comparatively, PDP said the economy recorded growth of 6.54per cent, in first quarter of 2014, 3.96 per cent in second quarter of 2015 and 0.55 per cent for the same period in 2017. “When these figures are considered along with inflation rate of 16.05 per cent and an annual population growth rate of approximately 2.67 per cent per annum, it is impossible to escape the conclusion that the recovery of the Nigerian Economy is weak, feeble and insufficient to herald the sort of celebration and backslapping being displayed by officials of this APC led-administration,� he said.

PDP’s spokesman said from its analysis, there is little or no justification to celebrate since harsh living condition in the country persists. “We are of the firm belief that there is nothing to celebrate until the so called economic growth improves the harsh living conditions imposed on millions of ordinary Nigerians by the Buhari administration’s incoherent economic policies and is reflected in a reduction of the high cost of goods, services and staple foods necessary for everyday living. “At this point, it is necessary to sound a note of caution! It is imperative to reiterate the warning of the last Monetary Policy Committee (PMC) Meeting to the effect that the Nation is at risk of falling into a more protracted recession if strong and bold monetary and fiscal policies are not activated immediately to sustain our exit from recession. “This warning is very necessary in the light of the incompetence, lack of economic

direction and incoherent economic policies of the Buhari administration which led us into, and then prolonged recession in the first place. It is clear that a continuation of the administration’s incoherent economic policies and its penchant for governance by propaganda will only lead us down a more dangerous path. Meanwhile, PDP has warned that it would sanction any of the party members who refuses to abide by the party’s constitution in resolving grievances before rushing to the court. He said it is only by being united that the PDP’s quest for a return to power in 2019 can be realised. Makarfi who was reacting to the accusation levelled against him by Senator Buruji Kashamu that he was fuelling crisis in the Ogun State chapter, said there was no truth in the allegation. He said the caretaker committee has already taken off peacefully in the state. “Did you see any sign of crisis here? Osun is here. The

crisis is in Ogun and it seems that he is one fuelling it. We have constituted caretaker committees in seven states and all of them are working well. Ask yourself why Ogun is the only one in crisis, it is because of one person,� he said. The chairman of the caretaker committee for Osun State is Ishola Sarafa, while Mohammed Imman is heading the caretaker committee for Adamawa State. Meanwhile Kashamu has urged Makarfi to stop threatening him with expulsion from the party. Kashamu, in a statement last night, said he had done nothing to warrant being expelled from the party. He said: “Reference to comments credited to you while inaugurating the caretaker committees for Osun and Adamawa States where you accused me of fueling those who, in defence of their infringed rights, instituted court cases in Ogun State against the party. I

Cont’d on Pg 50

Two Feared Dead as Niger Govt Demolishes Illegal Structures in Suleja

Laleye Dipo Ă“Ă˜ Ă“Ă˜Ă˜Ă‹

Two people were said to have died as the Niger State Government embarked on the demolition of illegal structures at the old barracks in Suleja town of Niger. One of those whose structure was demolished, Mr. Timothy Sulaiman, said one of those who died, a woman, lost her life at the Suleja General Hospital. The police did not confirm the story while the General Manager of the state Urban Development Board (NUDB), Hajia Habiba Ahmed,  the organisation that carried out the demolition exercise denied the claim. “Let them show us the corpses of those that died or their graves,� Ahmed declared. Several structures belonging to traders erected on the old barracks land, were pulled down as the police, men of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps provided security cover for the officials. According to a source, the demolition of the structures followed the expiration of the ultimatum given to the occupants to vacate the land in their own interest. There were wailings as the bulldozers pulled down the

buildings. After about two hours of operation by the NUDB officials, the old barracks had become a plain land even as some of the former inhabitants were left to salvage what they could out of their property. The state government yesterday, however,  defended the demolition, describing the “occupants as illegal tenants�. The Commissioner for Information, Mr. Jonathan Vatsa, told journalists at the venue of the demolished site yesterday that the state government had “magnanimously� paid certain amount of money as compensation through the military authorities to those who might be affected by the exercise shortly after the official handover of the land. “As far as we are concerned, those you see there are illegal tenants because the issue of who owned the land was settled a longtime ago between the state government and the military and that is why the military is involved in this exercise. Who are the so called tenants paying rent to,� Vatsa queried. Some of those affected had threatened to take legal action against the state government.

PREPARING THE ACCOUNTS FOR SHAREHOLDERS

L-R: Group Managing Director, Flour Mills of Nigeria Plc, Mr. Paul Miyonmide Gbededo; Company Secretary, Mr. Joseph Umolu; and Chairman, Mr. John Coumantaros, at the 57th annual general meeting of the company in Lagos....yesterday

FG Launches Pre-offer Roadshow for N100bn Sukuk Ndubuisi Francis Ă“Ă˜ ĂŒĂ&#x;ÔË The Debt Management Office (DMO) will today jump-start activities preparatory to the issuance of the much-awaited N100 billion non-interest bearing bond, otherwise known popularly as Sukuk.  A national roadshow led by the Director-General of the DMO, Ms. Patience Oniha, would commence today and traverse major cities in the country, including, Kano, Kaduna, Lagos and Port Harcourt. The team would be accompanied by its financial advisers, Lotus Capital Financial Services Limited and FBN Merchant Bank Plc. The roadshow is to create awareness about the Sovereign

Sukuk and sensitise target investors about its features and benefits. The DMO had announced its intention to issue a Sovereign Sukuk in the domestic market as part of measures to fund the 2017 budget deficit. Â Apart from serving as alternative source of funding for the government, the Sukuk would also serve to diversify the investor base for FGN Securities, promote financial inclusion and deepen the domestic capital market. Â Proceeds from the Sukuk issuance, according to the DMO, would be used to finance specific road projects. Sukuk are asset-based securities, not debt instruments, and represent ownership in a tangible asset, service, project, business or joint

venture.  This is why Sukuk fits into the DMO debt strategy of borrowing to finance capital projects contained in the budget.  This ensures that government borrowings are used to finance development projects, which have multiple economic and social benefits for citizens.  The debut Sovereign Sukuk is for N100 billion with a tenor of seven years, and has been certified as ethically compliant by the Financial Regulation Advisory Council of Experts of the Central Bank of Nigeria. The DMO in a statement noted that the benefits to be derived from investment in the Sukuk include “safety, regular income which are tax-free and liquidity as they will be listed and traded on The Nigerian

Stock Exchange and the FMDQ OTC Securities Exchange Plc.â€? The product is also useful as collateral to access loans from banks.  The Offer for Subscription would open in the week after the roadshow and would be advertised in major newspapers.  It is expected that the Sukuk would attract huge subscriptions from a wide range of institutional and retail investors including fund managers, associations and groups. To make it accessible to a wide spectrum of Nigerians, the minimum amount that an investor can purchase has been fixed at N10,000.00 only. The DMO advised potential investors to visit www.dmo.gov.ng.Â

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NEWSXTRA

Lai Mohammed: Exiting Recession Did Not Happen by Accident But FG’s Hard Work The Minister of Information and Culture, Alhaji Lai Mohammed, has said the Buhari administration is working and the results are showing in the various sectors of the economy. The minister stated this at the fourth annual conference of the Association of Communication Scholars and Professionals of Nigeria (ACSPN) in Kano yesterday, nothing that pulling Nigeria out of recession was not by accident.

“Taking Nigeria out of recession did not happen by accident. It is the culmination of months of hard work by the administration and fidelity to its well-articulated economic policies, especially the Strategic Implementation Economic Recovery (2016) and the Growth Plan (ERGP) that was launched on April 5, 2017,” he said. Mohammed listed some of the ‘’incrementally-positive steps’’ that got Nigeria out

CAC Registers Guild of Professional Bloggers The Guild of Professional Bloggers of Nigeria (GPBN) an umbrella body of bloggers set up to regulate the activities of blogging in Nigeria has been formally registered by the Corporate Affairs Commission (CAC). The development is contained in a statement signed by the Acting Publicity Secretary of the body, Miss Helen Ozor in Lagos yesterday According to her, the registration process which took quite some time to complete was received with so much applause and excitement from industry and media stakeholders across the country finally legitimising the Association as the authentic body to regulate the practice of blogging in Nigeria. As part of the way forward, the association has set up various committees to mobilise more members to join the group. A membership drive committee headed by versatile blogger Laila Ijeoma (Lailasblog) has been set up for this purpose. In the same vein, an ethics committee that will oversee the

activities of members on ethical behaviours and standards has also been set up. The committee is headed by Mr. Adrian Egonu (Naija Car Lovers Blog). The Interim Executive Members of the Association include Chris Kehinde Nwandu (CKN News), President, Femi Adeoya (Skytrend News) Secretary, Helen Ozor (Helen Blog), Head, Media and Publicity, Mrs Nelly Agwu (Indepth News), Treasurer. The President of the association, Mr Chris Kehinde Nwandu stated that the aim of the group is to set up a standard for the practice of blogging in Nigeria as well as formulate policies aimed at engaging major stakeholders, government functionaries, and the public. Nwandu added that the association will also see to the fact that the practice of blogging is not abused or used as an avenue to blackmail or settle scores among individuals and stakeholders, adding that in the months ahead, the activities of the association will be made public.

GDP GROWTH: NIGERIA NOT YET OUT OF TROUBLE, SAYS PDP am surprised that given your status and particularly the temporary nature of your present position; you are compounding issues instead of being forthright to solve the problems. “If you refuse along with your caretaker committee members to do justice by inviting the two sides of a conflict to objectively analyse contending matters ostensibly to find mutually acceptable solution, how can that become my fault? “It is empirical truth that these court judgments existed before your appointment as the Chairman of the Caretaker Committee of our great party. Also, it is on record that the affected party has written multiple letters to you explaining the facts of the case in anticipation of your being equitable and just. These people have also been writing to the police for necessary protection to prevent any negative decision you might take that could result into anarchy and breakdown of law and order. “Unfortunately, you chose to be partisan and unfair to them by dissolving the validly constituted state exco against

subsisting judgments and constituted a one-sided caretaker committee populated by 100% of their adversaries - in favour of OGD. “Mr Chairman, you seem to be asking and expecting from me that which I have no powers to do. Those you have sidelined, though political allies of mine, are eminent political leaders and important personalities in their own rights. They cannot easily be suppressed and coerced into concurrence of obvious rights abuse without reactions. “It is worse when it is an open secret as we all know that all these manipulations in the mould of reconciliation are meant to create loyal South West excos for your presidential ambition. “The threat of expelling me and others perceived not to fall in line with exco creation for your presidential agenda has become topical in the party. If you unjustly expel us from the party, you cannot expel us from the hearts of our people. Certainly, you cannot also expel us from the courts as bonafide Nigerians and law abiding citizens.”

of recession as including the reversal of the consistent slowdown since 2014 to a level where the GDP finally grew by 0.55per cent in the second quarter of 2017. ‘’This positive growth is attributable to both the oil and non-oil sectors of the economy. Growth in the oil sector, which has been negative since Q4 2015, was positive in Q2 2017. It rose by 1.64% as compared to -15.60 in Q1 2017, an increase of up to 17 percentage points. ‘’The non-oil sector grew by 0.45% in Q2 2017, a second successive quarterly growth after growing 0.72 per cent in Q1 2017. In particular, improvement in the non-oil sector was driven principally by strong growth in agriculture and solid minerals sector, and reversal in the previous contraction

of the manufacturing and construction sector. This shows that the government’s economic diversification programme is working,’’ he said. The Minister listed other positive developments as a fall in the inflation rate from 18% to 16% as of July 2017; the rise in exports, coupled with a decrease in imports, which brought the country’s trade balance to 719.4 billion, up from 671.3 billion; increase in capital inflow that brought the total value of capital imported into Nigeria in the second quarter of 2017 to $1,792.3 million, representing a growth of 95.02 percent; increase in foreign reserves to a 30-month high of $31.8 billion in July 2017; and appreciation in exchange rate from N520/$ as at February 20, 2017 to N362/$ as at August 17, 2017.

He also listed some of the various impactful programmes of the Administration as including the National Home Grown School Feeding Programme, which today feeds 3,065,000 pupils in 14 states of the federation pupils and has employed 36,000 cooks across the country; the Conditional Cash Transfer that has seen about over 30,000 households benefit from the N5,000 monthly stipend; the Government Enterprise and Empowerment Programme under which about 120,000 people have benefited from the cooperative loans; and the N-power that has employed 200,000 people. He said the high food prices are being addressed with appropriate monetary, fiscal and trade policies,

as stated in the ERGP. Mohammed reiterated his earlier statement that the purveyors of hate speech, fake news and disinformation are working hard to obliterate the glaring achievements of the administration. ‘’To naysayers, these positive developments do not constitute news. That’s why they make up their own fake news, and engage in disinformation and hate speech. They believe that by seeking to overwhelm the polity with fake news, disinformation and hate speech, they can easily obliterate the glaring achievements of the Buhari administration. We must not allow them to dominate the media space,’’ he said

COURTESY VISIT

L-R: Secretary General, Association of African Development Finance Institutions (AADFI), Mr. Joseph Amihere; Managing Director, Bank of Industry (BoI), Mr. Olukayode Pitan; and Executive Director, Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs), Mr. Waheed Olagunju, during a courtesy visit by the AADFI team to BoI in Abuja...yesterday

Fayemi: Kaduna Nickel Deposits, Potential Game Changer for Nigeria’s Economy Chineme Okafor ÓØ ÌßÔË The Minister of Mines and Steel Development, Dr. Kayode Fayemi, has said the large quantity of nickel - a silvery-white radiant metal discovered in Dangoma village, Kaduna State, was a potential game changer for Nigeria’s economy if properly managed. Fayemi also stated that the federal government would support healthy mining of the nickel as well as other genuine investors in Nigeria’s solid minerals sector to actualise its economic diversification plan. Speaking during his presentation at the Africa Down Under (ADU) Conference in Perth, Australia, Fayemi, said the Dangoma nickel deposit is reputed to be of high grade and a rare find, and that the government has secured the environment as a first major

step to ensure it is mined responsibly. According to a statement issued yesterday by his Senior Special Assistant on Communication, Mr. Yinka Oyebode, in Abuja, the minister whose presentation at the conference was titled: ‘Mining for Shared Prosperity: Why Nigeria, Why Now’, said the government would support the nickel project and other investors to move Nigeria from a resource exploration territory to that of processing. The minister, according to the statement, spoke to a gathering of African ministers of mines and minerals, policy makers, investors, operators and mining financiers at the conference where Nigeria’s nickel deposit was reportedly discussed at length. He said as part of the government’s plan for the nickel project and the solid

minerals sector, it would not compromise its laws and regulations, but would urge investors to work with the state governments in their community relations engagement, in order to build harmonious working relationship with the host communities. “You need the cooperation of the host communities as well as the state governments. Even when our constitution allows the federal government to issue you licence, you need the understanding and cooperation of the state governments and the host communities whose environment you are going to work. “The host communities should have a stake in your investment. Once that is done, they would see themselves as part-owners and would ensure no one sabotages your efforts. This, we have

learnt through experience,” said Fayemi. He explained that the government was working with Comet Minerals Limited which discovered the nickel on different other aspects of the project, adding that, “the nickel discovery could be a game changer if properly managed.” The minister also listed the government’s incentives for investors in the sector to include tax holidays which he said was renewable, as well as duty waiver on imported mining equipment. He, however said the government would insist on best practices with emphasis on enforcement of law and order. Noting that Nigeria’s mining law remained one of the best in the world, Fayemi, however said enforcement of the laws had always been a challenge.

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PSC Confirms Senator Misau’s Retirement Followed Due Process Police: We won’t comment now Paul Obi Ă“Ă˜ ĂŒĂ&#x;ÔË The Police Service Commission  (PSC) yesterday cleared Senator Isah Hamman

Misua of alleged forgery of his retirement from the Nigerian Police. Misau and the Inspector General of Police (IG),

Family, Friends Remember Olorogun Michael Ibru Sylvester Idowu Ă“Ă˜ Ă‹ĂœĂœĂ“ Family, friends and residents of Agbarha-Otor community in Ughelli North Local Government Area of Delta State yesterday turned out en masse to honour the late Olorogun Michael Ibru for living a fulfilled life that left an indelible mark on their lives and community. At the Saint Michael’s Anglican Church, AgbarhaOtor, where they gathered for the first memorial service in honour of the late business mogul in appreciation of his contribution to the upliftment of his kinsmen and development of his country home,prominent Nigerians poured encomiums on Ibru. Ibru, the Otota of Agbarha Kingdom and Avwoghokefe of Olomu Kingdom, was born on December 25, 1930 and died on September 6, 2016. The Bishop of Ughelli Diocese of Anglican Communion, Dr. Cyril Odotemu, who anchored his sermon on Psalm 92 verse 12 advised the family to live in

unity and build on the legacy left by the deceased. He recalled that in the history of Urhobo nation, nobody has got as much wealth as Ibru and spread it to all his relatives, friends and community as he did. “This man had everything in the world and gave it back to everyone on his way. He left so much wealth but the only wealth is his family. That’s why there should be unity amongst his family,� he added. Bishop Odotemu urged the deceased children not to listen to those who might urged them to claim their right, adding that when the fight starts, they will not be there to separate them. The head of Ibru family, Mr. Goodie Ibru, said his brother left a big shoe for him to wear but assured that he would keep the family united in line with his (deceased brother) wish. He acknowledged that in every family, there are usually challenges, promising that whatever challenge the family is going through now would be a thing of the past.

Niger Governor Assents to New Contributory Pension Scheme Bill Laleye Dipo Ă“Ă˜ Ă“Ă˜Ă˜Ă‹ Niger State Governor, Alhaji Abubakar Sani Bello, yesterday in Minna assented to the New Contributory Pension Scheme (CPS) bill, assuring retirees that their entitlements would continue to be paid as at when due. He also assured serving civil servants that their welfare would always be a priority for the administration. The new CPS bill replaced a private member bill which was passed by  the state House of Assembly  last year but was not assented to by the governor before the executive sent a revised version to the legislature. The revised bill was passed into law by the legislators about a month ago. Bello said  his administration was committed to ensuring that the welfare of its work force was given priority attention, promising also that payment of salaries of workers would continue to be paid promptly. “From time to time, we will continue to make necessary adjustments to improve on the quality of life of our civil servants. They need to be properly taken care of.

Government will continue to find ways to improve their lots.� The governor also assured retiring civil servants, both at the state and local government levels of prompt payment of their terminal benefits, stressing that his administration would not deny or hold on to the retirement benefits of any officer who had put in 35 years of service. “Our retiring civil servants have given 35 years of their lives to the service of the state, government must reduce their hardship by ensuring payment of their pension. We have to ensure everyone is paid as at when due,� the governor assured. On gratuity, Bello said machinery had been put in place to calculate and structure its payment over a period of time, while government would continue to honour the monthly payment of pension to those under the old pension scheme.  In the last three months, retirees under the CPS had protested severally  to both the governor and House of Assembly, asking for the payment of their entitlements. During one of such protests, a male retiree reportedly slumped and died.

Ibrahim Idris, have been at loggerheads over allegation of corruption against the IG, while the police in turn accused the senator of absconding from his job as a police officer among other sundry offences. The senator though failed to appear before the police commission to prove the authenticity of his retirement from the police, but speaking

with THISDAY, PSC Head of Media and Information, Ikechukwu Ani, said: The committee sat and after its meeting, it confirmed that it issued the letter. “The letter was dated  March 5, 2014 and to take effect December 1, 2010, and it was based on recommendation from Force Headquarters.� Ani explained that “the

first issue is that after they met, they confirmed that the commission issued the letter to the senator dated March 5, 2014, to take effect December 1, 2010 and that it was based on the recommendation of Force Headquarters. “So, his retirement followed due process; as per his retirement, the commission issued him a letter,â€? he submitted.Â

However, the Nigerian Police declined to comment on the position of PSC regarding the clearance of Misau of any wrong during his retirement from the Police. Police Public Relations Officer, CSP Jimoh Moshood, informed THISDAY that the police would not comment pending when it receive official notification from the PSC.Â

HERE’S OUR CANDIDATE FOR 2018

Ekiti State Governor, Mr. Ayodele Fayose (left), endorsing his deputy, Prof. Kolapo Olusola, as the sole candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in 2018 governorship election in the state....yesterday

APC: We’ve FulďŹ lled Our Promise on Economic Recovery

Atiku hails exit from recession Onyebuchi Ezigbo Ă“Ă˜ ĂŒĂ&#x;ÔË The All Progressives Congress (APC) has described the exit of the country from recession as a proof that the ruling party is living up to its promise to Nigerians. The party said the latest disclosures by the National Bureau of Statistics (NBS) and the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) that the country has exited recession after five consecutive quarters of contraction and that the country’s foreign reserve has hit $32 billion, the highest mark since January 2015. In a statement issued yesterday to celebrate the economic achievement, the National Publicity Secretary of APC, Mallam Bolaji Abdulahi, said the administration would remain focused on its effort to sustain the economy on the path of growth. “Nigerians will recall that

during the 2015 elections, the APC promised to curb corruption, restore the economy and ensure security of the nation. We commend the administration of President Muhammadu Buhari on the economic recovery efforts which has evidently started to yield fruits,� the party said. APC also commended the National Assembly for working with the executive in improving the economy and other areas of national life. “Commendably, the country’s exit from recession was in tandem with the current administration’s forecast that the country will experience economic growth in 2017. This is another demonstration that the President Buhari APC-led administration is one that keeps its promises. “The APC thanks Nigerians for their patience, understanding and support

for the President Buhari administration while the economy was in recession. Although there remains much more work to be done, we assure Nigerians that the administration remains focused on its effort to sustain the economy on the path of growth. “As the President Buhari administration works assiduously to build a new solid foundation, credible image and pull the country out of the present hardships, we appeal for continued patience and the cooperation from Nigerians. While these are difficult times for many Nigerians, we must sustain the hope that brighter days are ahead of us,� it said. Also, former Vice President, Atiku Abubakar, has welcomed the exit of Nigeria from recession He said as a Nigerian

investor and employer of labour, the news of Nigeria’s official emergence from recession is a most welcome development. Atiku said in a statement by his media office in Abuja yesterday that the news is surely a boost for Nigeria “it tells investors, local and foreign, that our economy is worth investing in.� He, however, cautioned that while we must rejoice, it’s also important to recognise that the economic weakness at the bottom of the pyramid remains, adding that inflation is still high. “We must continue working hard to expand economic opportunity for all Nigerians. “When all Nigerians can eat three square meals, that’s when the real recession ends. We have work to do,� he said.

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How JTF Boss, Top Military Commanders Escaped Death in Maritime Accident Niger Delta agitators threaten to shut oil company over pollution, neglect Ernest Chinwo Ă“Ă˜ Ă™ĂœĂž Ă‹ĂœĂ?Ă™Ă&#x;ĂœĂž Ă‹Ă˜ĂŽ Emmanuel Addeh Ă“Ă˜ Ă?Ă˜Ă‹Ă‘Ă™Ă‹ Senior military officers, including the Commander of Joint Task Force (JTF) in the Niger Delta, Rear Admiral Apochi Suleiman; Commander, Nigerian Naval Ship (NNS) Victory, Commodore Sali Jibrin, and other Component Commanders of the special security outfit yesterday escaped death by the whiskers. It was learnt that the top officers were on a patrol in the waterways in the Niger Delta area when the incident which saw the senior military personnel, comprising mainly the navy, sustaining various injuries. The operation was immediately called off after the mishap, which military authorities described as ‘major’. THISDAY learnt that a jetty, a structure that projects from the land into water used as a walkway accessing the centre of the sea, which was used by the affected senior officers, caved in during the patrol. The actual number of the security operatives affected could not be ascertained, but the military source said all arms which reportedly fell into the sea were recovered. However, the officers and

men were able to swim ashore, according to the military source, and had been treated for the wounds sustained during the accident which happened in the waterways of Akpabuyo Local Government Area, Cross River. A statement released by the Coordinator of the Joint Media Campaign Centre (JMCC), Major Ibrahim Abdullahi, said the senior officers were preparing to return to the area to complete the operation which was temporarily truncated as a result of the accident. “As part of Operation Safety Check (3) which is designed to check troops’ deployment and activities at various locations across the Niger Delta, a mishap was averted today (yesterday) at the northernmost Operation Delta Safe (OPDS) location at Ikang, Cross Rivers State. “The Commander OPDS, Rear Admiral Apochi Suleiman, Commander Nigerian Naval Ship (NNS) Victory, Operation Delta Safe Component Commanders, Commander Sector 4 along with other Senior Officers and soldiers, all fell into Ikang River as a result of the complete collapse of the Jetty at Ikang at about 10 a.m. “However, as a result of the survival capability of the officers

and men of the service as well as all personnel, weapons and other equipment were recovered with slight injuries to some personnel which have been treated,� Abdullahi said. According to the JTF spokesman, “The team has retired back to Calabar to restrategise and go ahead with the planned patrol and inspection.� Meanwhile, leaders of former agitators in the Niger Delta have threatened to shut down the operations of an oil company, Sterling Global Oil Resources, in the region over alleged issues of pollution and neglect of the region.

In a statement issued in Port Harcourt yesterday, the spokesman of the repentant militants, Mudork Apele, alleged that the firm failed to comply with environmental standards in its operations. They further enjoined the federal government to immediately revoke the licence granted the firm to save the environment. They added that they would not allow the firm allegedly operated by Indians to shortchange the region. The statement said: “We cannot allow this to continue. This is a region with so much

poverty yet our oil wells are operated by non-Niger Deltans (Indians) who are insensitive to the plight of the Niger Deltans, when we have capacity to handle it. “This set of Indians have done so much damage to our region through some of their activities which have caused terrible pollution on our water where they convey their products from Asemuku to Age River. “We call on the federal government to immediately revoke the oil licence of this firm before October “The company has been very unfair to our people. Federal

government must withdraw their licence. This is our stand.� They also accused the company of enslaving its Nigerians staff by paying them with a different scale from their Indian counterparts. The ex-militants also alleged that the company denied its Nigerian workers their allowances even where they are forced to work in sub-human conditions. They demanded that the company leaves the region before October 1 or they would be forced to take further actions to cripple the operations of the company.

Fayemi Recants, to Send Commissioner to Appear at Ekiti Judicial Panel Victor Ogunje Ă“Ă˜ ĂŽĂ™ ÕÓÞÓ

from appearing on Monday, September 11. Mr. Rafiu Balogun, lawyer to the The panel also ordered former Ekiti State Governor, Dr. Kolawole, to appear before it on Kayode Fayemi, will not appear September 11. before the Judicial Commission This was after Balogun had of Inquiry investigating the prayed for an adjournment for management of the state finances Kolawole, who was summoned during his administration. to give evidence yesterday. Contrary to Fayemi’s Counsel to the panel, Mr. claim that he had filed a suit Sunday Bamise, had earlier challenging the composition claimed that a lawyer, Mr. of the panel and that would Ibrahim Olanrewaju, received preclude him from making any the summons on behalf of representation, either personally Kolawole, a claim which was or by proxy, Balogun said the vehemently refuted by another Commissioner for Finance counsel, Mr. Adeoye Aribasoye. under the former governor Aribasoye argued that he , Mr. Dapo Kolawole, would Olanrewaju and Mr. Tajudeen make appearance at the panel Akingbolu announced to give evidence. appearances as “observers’ at Balogun, who appeared before the last sitting of the panel and the Justice Silas Oyewole-led never appeared for Fayemi and panel yesterday, said he Kolawole and never received was entering a “conditional processes on their behalf. appearance� or “appearance Justice Oyewole said record in protest� for his client. before the panel showed that He explained that Fayemi, Olanrewaju signed to receive who is now Minister of Mines the summons on Kolawole’s and Steel Development, received behalf which may not be to the summons of the panel but knowledge of Aribasoye. would not appear in view of He said the panel was on a circumstances that predated the “fact-finding mission and not constitution of the panel. raised to crucify anybody.� Balogun applied to make an The counsel explained that oral application but was advised the ex-commissioner was not by the Commission Chairman, properly served. Justice Silas Oyewole, to make Other parties which appeared at a formal application in line with Wednesday’s sitting were CASA the rules of the panel. Nigeria, Securities and Exchange The panel, however, ordered Commission, Jichengi Yuyan Balogun to file an application Limited officials of Ministry excusing the former governor of Works and Transportation.

BRIEFING THE PRESS ON CLIMATE CHANGE

L-R: Environmental Activist, Mr. Desmond Majekodunmi; Senator Florence Ita-Giwa; and Media Consultant, Mr. Patrick Doyle, at a press conference addressed by Ita-Giwa on climate change in Lagos....yesterday

Again, Lasun Assures on Passage of Devolution of Power Bill Says new constitution ready by April James Emejo Ă“Ă˜ ĂŒĂ&#x;ÔË The Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives, Hon. Sulaimon  Lasun Yussuff,  has also reassured Nigerians that National Assembly will revisit the bill on devolution of power when it returns from recess later in the month. House Majority Leader, Hon. Femi Gbajabiamila, had earlier said the legislature would revisit the issue, adding that it was a mistake not to have passed the bill. The failure of the National Assembly to pass the subject during the recent constitution review exercise had been widely rebuffed by the public, leading to some sectional agitations which appeared to have been doused through painstaking consultations. However,  Lasun who is the Chairman, House Special Ad hoc Committee on the Review of the 1999 Constitution further

promised Nigerians a new constitution before April next year. Speaking at his hometown in Ilobu when he unveiled his agenda for next year’s Osun State governorship election, he vowed to turn around the fortune of the state if voted into power. He said: “We did everything  possible to ensure that bill on devolution of power sail through but it is unfortunate that Nigerians did not take us serious.� However,  he said the committee still had enough time to revisit the matter, and appealed to Nigerians to give support and cooperation so few minorities who opposed the bill could see reasons why they should support the bill. He added: “My governorship ambition will aim at turning the state’s fortunes around especially in “moment of crisis’ which its education

had found itself. Osun state is in a moment of crisis as its educational sector is also in bad shape and the quality is no longer there.� A member of the  All Progressives Congress (APC), the deputy speaker, in a statement by his Chief Press Secretary, Mr.  Wole Oladimeji,  said he would open up the hinterland for the state’s economic and infrastructural development to thrive. Lasun said: “When you talk about infrastructural development, you’re talking about economic development and if voted in as the next governor of the state, I’m going to link the two together to make sure that whatever infrastructural provisions we make translate to economic development. “The infrastructure and economic development will change if given the opportunity to govern the state. “Osun is

in a critical position; it must not be left in the hands of charlatans. “If you’re a governor or aspiring to be governor and you say you have 6 points agenda or 9 points agenda, it’s rubbish, I’m very sure of that. “People talk about infrastructure, infrastructure that is not targeted at economic development is no infrastructure. So, it means at any point in time when you’re talking about infrastructure, you’re talking about economic development. “Once, you’re not able to link the two, then you don’t know what you’re doing. “For example, if you decide to construct roads, it’s better for you to construct roads where you can take people to farm and for them to be able to bring farm produce outside than to construct roads for those who use its luxury items.�

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Army: Two Deputies to Boko Haram Leader, Shekau Killed Says sect’s video mere propaganda, sign of defeat

Paul Obi in Abuja with agency report Two Boko Haram commanders and deputies to Abubakar Shekau, a factional leader of the terror group, were killed in successful military operations at Alafa in Borno on Sallah day, an official has said. The army spokesman, BrigGeneral Sani Usman, said in a statement on Tuesday that the deputies that were killed in the onslaught included Afdu Kawuri and Abubakar Banishek. “This is in addition to Ba’Abba Ibrahim and two other Boko Haram commanders that died after sustaining injuries during their last ambush at Magumeri Local Government Area of Borno,” he added. He said five other key leaders of the group and close associates of Shekau were neutralised in joint bombardment in August. Usman, according to the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) described Shekau’s latest video in which he taunted the army as an act of desperation and lies by remnants of the insurgents to instill unnecessary fear in law abiding citizens. In the video, the group denied the killing of its five key commanders and claimed it had wonderful Sallah celebration in the Sambisa forest. “We wish to challenge the so-called terrorist leader to produce the five key commanders earlier killed or the video of those Ameers he claimed not dead and are still with him. “It is also instructive to note that Shekau is scared and rattled by the 40-day ultimatum issued by the Chief of Army Staff to Operation Lafiya Dole to fish him out,” Usman, a brigadier general, said. Usman also yesterday said the recent video released by Boko Haram terrorists was a mere propaganda strategy and a sign of defeat. He said: “The Nigerian Army has noted that in their desperation, the remnants of the Boko Haram terrorists have released yet another video clip yesterday, in which they made all manner of spurious assertions, denying the surrender of some of the terrorists and the killing of five key commanders,

among other lies, all aimed at instilling unnecessary fears in law abiding people. “Although the relevant department is still analysing the video clip, suffice to state that it is sheer desperation and clear signs of fear as our troops keep closing up on them. Usman stated that the “two other Deputies of the purported Boko Haram terrorists group leader, Afdu Kawuri and Abubakar Banishek, were killed in a successful military operation at Alafa on Sallah day, Friday, September 1, 2017. “This is in addition to Ba’Abba Ibrahim and 2 other Boko Haram commanders that died after sustaining injuries during their last ambush at Magumeri Local Government Area of Borno State. “We wish to challenge the socalled terrorist leader to produce the five key commanders earlier killed or the video of those Ameers he claimed not dead and are still with him. “It is also instructive to note that Shekau is scared and rattled by the 40-day ultimatum issued by the Chief of Army Staff to the Theatre Commander Operation Lafiya Dole and hiding from one hole to another, like the bush rat that he really is,” said Usman. Meanwhile, the Nigerian Air Force (NAF) yesterday gave heroic burial to its late Instructor Pilot, Group Captain Adanu Gabriel Ochai, who lost his life in an air mishap involving a NAF Air Beetle aircraft on 24 August 2017 in Kaduna. The late senior officer was laid to rest at the National Military Cemetery in Abuja. Speaking at the burial ceremony, the Chief of the Air Staff (CAS), Air Marshal Sadique Abubakar, said the demise of Group Captain Ochai called for sober reflection and described it as a great loss to the NAF and to the nation at large. According to him, the NAF had lost a hardworking, committed and excellent senior officer who, during his lifetime, contributed to some feats in the NAF. “One of such feats was the successful training and graduation of 16 NAF student pilots who completed their initial flying training while still being cadets at the Nigerian Defence Academy. “That was a target last achieved

32 years ago, according to the CAS. He described the late senior officer as a dedicated pilot who went the extra-mile to add value to the NAF. Air Marshal Abubakar, assured the immediate family of the deceased that they remained a part of the Air Force family and would be so treated,” he said. Paying the last tributes on

behalf of the Ochai family, the elder brother of the deceased senior officer, Brigadier General John Ochai, expressed appreciation to the NAF for honouring his late brother with a national burial. He described his late brother as one who always loved service more than self. He stated that his late brother had great plans for his family. He

therefore pledged that with God’s assistance, he would ensure that no vacuum was left as a result of the death of his brother. Earlier in his remarks, a course mate and close friend of the departed senior officer, Group Captain Olufemi Ogunsina, also extolled the virtues of the late instructor pilot, noting that he died while doing what he was

passionate about. The burial ceremony was attended by the acting Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Defence, who represented the minister, top government officials, current and past service chiefs, several serving and retired senior military officers, members of the diplomatic corps, eminent civilians, relatives and friends.

ON WIKE WE STAND Youths marching in appreciation of the performance of Rivers State Governor, Nyesom Ezenwo Wike, in Port Harcourt.... yesterday

Ekiti 2018: PDP Adopts Fayose’s Deputy, Olusola as Sole Candidate Victor Ogunje in Ado Ekiti In preparation for the 2018 governorship election in Ekiti State, stakeholders of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in the state have adopted the Deputy Governor, Prof. Kolapo Olusola, from Ekiti South senatorial district, as the preferred candidate of the party. Adoption of the deputy governor, who hails from Ikere Ekiti, and a professor of Building Technology from the Obafemi Awolowo University (OAU), Ile-Ife, Osun State, was the major decision reached at the party’s stakeholders’ meeting in Ado Ekiti yesterday. At the meeting were: 177 councilors, 177 ward chairmen, 16 local government party chairmen, 16 local council chairmen, chairmen and members of boards and

parastatals, state executive council, state House of Assembly members, serving and former members of the PDP State Working Committee, former deputy governor, among others. With this adoption, the PDP had foreclosed the ambitions of other aspirants like; former Works’ Minister, Prince Dayo Adeyeye, former Deputy Governor, Dr Sikiru Lawal, senator representing Ekiti South, Biodun Olujimi and former Nigeria envoy to Canada, Ambassador Dare Bejide. The communique issued after the meeting reads; “After due consultation, without prejudice to the provisions of the Electoral Act 2010 (as amended), we formally endorse, Prof. Kolapo Olusola (the current deputy governor), from Ekiti South senatorial district, as

our preferred aspirant/candidate.” It was signed by Hon. Anifowose Mustapha, for councilors, Alhaji Amuda Sunmonu, for Ward Chairmen; Hon Femi Bamisile, for Local Government Party Chairmen; Hon Dapo Olagunju, for Local Government Chairmen (ALGON); Senator Bode Ola, for Chairmen of Board and Parastatals; Dr. Modupe Alade (Secretary to the State Government), for State Executive Council; Hon. Kolawole Oluwawole, Speaker of the State House of Assembly and the State Chairman of the party, Chief Gboyega Oguntuase. Speaking after the adoption, state Chairman of the PDP, Chief Oguntuase said the party organs will abide by the decision taken by the stakeholders in the overall

interest of the party and the entire people of Ekiti State. He, however, said the adoption will not preclude any member of the party that is interested in the governorship ticket from contesting, adding that open and transparent primary election will be held in accordance with the rules of the party. Chairman of Forum of Ward Chairmen, Alhaji Amuda Sunmonu also hailed the decision to adopt Prof. Olusola, maintaining that “Wherever Governor Fayose goes, we will follow him.” Also speaking on behalf of local council councilors, Hon Anifowose Mustapha said all the 177 councilors in the state were solidly behind the governor and “the decision of the party’s stakeholders remained binding on all of us.”

judiciary a beacon of wellrounded justices who the entire citizenry will be proud of.” Awassam asked Nigerians to keep faith and trust in the present administration’s fight against corruption and assured them that the CJN was doing his best to reform the judiciary. Also, EFCC spokesman Wilson Uwujaren said yesterday in Abuja that there was no iota of truth in the said report. He said: “The attention of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission has been drawn to a story indicating that the Chief Justice of Nigeria, Justice Walter Nkanu Onnoghen, former Minister of Finance and Coordinating Minister

for the Economy, Dr. Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala, Minister of Solid Minerals Development, Kayode Fayemi, and Justice Abdu Kafarati of the Federal High Court, among others, were under investigation by the commission. “It is important to state that this report did not emanate from the EFCC and the allusion to ‘an EFCC source’ is diversionary and mischievous. “For the avoidance of doubt, cases under investigation communicated to the Office of the Attorney General of the Federation by the commission are classified information and it is troubling how such would be leaked to the media.

“The mastermind of this leak is out to create disaffection between the commission and particularly the judiciary. “The commission wishes to state categorically that it is currently not investigating Justices Onnoghen and Kafarati. “When Justice Onnoghen was being considered for his present position, the commission received some petitions which were investigated and found to be without merit and discarded. “Indeed, much damage has been done to the commission’s investigation activities by this leak especially, as some of the cases mentioned are still at preliminary stages of the investigation.”

E FC C PROB E: I’VE NOT HING TO HIDE, SAYS ON N OGH E N The news report had published a list of persons comprising former and serving government officials and judicial officers said to be under investigation for alleged corruption. It said the list had been recently sent by the anti-graft agency to the Attorney General of the Federation and Minister of Justice, Mr. Abubakar Malami (SAN). However, the CJN’s reaction, which was contained in a statement by his media aide, Awassam Bassey, said Justice Onnoghen would not be deterred by the report in his effort to carry out the necessary reforms in the judiciary. The statement said: “Our

attention has been drawn to a media report quoting the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) as probing the Chief Justice of Nigeria (CJN), Hon. Justice Walter Samuel Nkanu Onnoghen for yet-to-be disclosed reasons. “The report in the media mentioned the reason for the investigation as ‘intelligence’, which for now we take to be abstract. “However, the Hon. CJN wishes to use this medium to state that this is the first time he is being made aware of any allegations or intelligence against him, nor has he been invited or called upon to offer any explanation for any impropriety.

“However, the Hon. CJN wishes to assure the public that he has nothing to hide and is open to investigation,” the statement read. Awassam stated further that the CJN as a committed patriot who has spent his adult life in the temple of justice, was ready to pay the required price to make the nation a better place. He said: “The commitment of the Hon. CJN in the efforts of the current administration to rid the country of corrupt practices is unwavering and he will stop at nothing to see a new dawn in Nigeria’s judiciary. “He will also not be distracted from his avowed reformative efforts to make the Nigerian

Ëœ ÍżËœ ͺ͸͚Ϳ Ëž T H I S D AY

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THURSDAYSPORTS

Group Sports Editor Duro Ikhazuagbe Email duro.ikhazuagbe@thisdaylive.com

WORLD CUP 2018 QUALIFIER

Rohr Says No Panic, Eagles Will Cage Zambia Duro Ikhazuagbe With Zambia breathing down the neck of Nigeria after claiming a famous 1-0 away victory against Algeria in Constantine on Tuesday night to move up to seven points, Technical Adviser of the Super Eagles, Gernot Rohr, insisted yesterday that there is no need for panic among football fans in the country. The Franco-German coach who watched the proceedings of the game on television in Abuja after returning from Yaounde where his wards were forced to a one-all draw by the Indomitable Lions of Cameroon, told AOIFootball. com yesterday that he’s not under any pressure because of the three points picked by the Southern African country. “I am not under any pressure at all. I watched the game yesterday night (Tuesday) and I am very confident the Zambian’s will fall when they come to Nigeria,� observed the gaffer who is determined to lead Nigeria to the World Cup in Russia next year. Rohr further revealed that he has no plan to change his winning team going into the crucial encounter with the Zambians on October 7 in Uyo. “I will stick to the same tactics that saw us (Nigeria) see off

Cameroon. I see no reason to change a winning team as the boys were fantastic and we must continue to work well as a team to ensure we have a proper team ahead of the World Cup in Russia next year,� hinted the Eagles supremo. He admitted that he is very happy with the support Nigerians showed his team during the last round of matches of the Group B qualifying series. Rohr urged all football-loving Nigerians to continue to support the Super Eagles in good and bad times, as he bids to build a formidable team capable of conquering not just Africa, but the world. Meanwhile, Head Coach of Algeria national team, Lucas Alcaraz, believes Nigeria will definitely pick the sole Group B ticket to Russia in 2018 FIFA World Cup. Algeria lost the first of their double header 1-3 in Zambia on Saturday, before the Chipolopolo ended the undefeated home streak of the Algerians since 2006 with a 0-1 win in Algiers to get into contention for a maiden World Cup qualification battle with Nigeria. But in his post match conference, Alcaraz believes Nigeria has the momentum to reach the World Cup in Russia next year.

�Zambia has a balanced squad with a blend of youngsters but I don’t think they can make it for the World Cup in Russia,� Alcaraz said in a report captured by Zambia’s Daily Mail yesterday. The former Granada of Spain coach seems to toe the line of Cameroon coach, Hugo Broos, who surrendered to the Super Eagles after the 4-0 demolition of the Lions in Uyo. �I know it was an interesting result in Cameroon, which gives hope to other teams, but still the momentum is with Nigeria. Alcarez continued. The Spanish coach who replaced Belgian Georges Leekens earlier this year, however advised the Zambians to build for the Qatar 2022 World Cup qualification �Zambian coach (Wedson Nyirenda) has a good team but I think he should concentrate on building a strong team with the focus on qualifying for the 2022 World Cup. �I believe the Qatar target is attainable if they can maintain the same performance, � Alcarez concluded. Nigeria on ten points from four games lead the Chipolopolo on three points. Both Cameroon and Algeria with on three points and one respectively have crashed out of contention for the sole group ticket.

Mbappe

PSG Unveils Mbappe, Says Nothing to Hide in its Transfer Deals French wonderkid Kylian Mbappe has admitted that he snubbed Real Madrid because he wanted to return to his home city Paris. The striker was unveiled yesterday by Paris Saint-Germain after his loan move from Monaco ahead of an amazing £166m move next summer. The 18-year-old’s wages are set to jump from £15,750 a week to a staggering £140,000. And he said the lure of returning to the city where he grew up – rather than the riches of the club’s Qatari owners – was

the key. Mbappe, who will wear the No29 shirt, said: “Whether it is one euro or 180million euros it doesn’t matter to me. “I didn’t pay it and I don’t pocket it. “It’s a great pleasure to join one of the biggest clubs in the world. “Back in May, I was in the frame of mind that I would stay with Monaco. Certain events changed my mind. “It was important not to leave France. It was important to return to the city where I

George, Ebewele, Okon Hit Ilorin for 2017 National Youth Games Honourable Olamide George will be at the head of Athletics Federation of Nigeria (AFN) officials expected in Ilorin for the 2017 National Youth Games which begin this week. George, who is the vice president of the federation will be joined by Brown Ebewele, a foremost athletics coach who is expected to be named the AFN technical sub-committee chairman following his election as the representative of the technical arm of the federation as well as three-time Olympic coach, Gabriel Okon. Also expected to be in Ilorin for the games are Sunday Adeleye,the athletes representative elected on June 13 to purposely take care of the interest of track and field athletes and Amaechi Akawo, the administrative head of the federation. The Sports Writers of Nigeria

(SWAN) representative on the board of the AFN, Dare Esan is also expected to hit Ilorin later this week. In a chat with newsmen in Lagos, Esan revealed that the AFN will organise the athletics event of the games which runs from September 11 through 16 at the Maracana Stadium in University of Ilorin. ‘As a journalist and somebody who has been associated with track and field for over 20 years and has covered the IAAF World Championships eight times, I am delighted the 2017 edition is a reality.This is truly a talent discovery event and kudos must be given to the Honourable Minister, Solomon Dalung for giving Nigerian youths an event aimed at developing their talent and fostering unity amongst them, he said.

grew up.� Having burst onto the scene last season with 26 goals in all competitions for Leonardo Jardim’s side, Mbappe wants to go on to bigger and better things in the French capital. “I want to do even better than last season,� he said as he was presented to the media on Wednesday.

“I am driven by the desire to win everything.â€? Fans in the street outside lit flares to welcome their new signing, who follows the ÂŁ198m capture of Brazilian superstar Neymar. PSG Qatari President Nasser Al-Khelaifi told reporters that Mbappe’s move has nothing to do with money.

He said: “We met with Mbappe’s family three times and not once did we talk about money. “He’s not interested in money.� Mbappe admitted he cannot wait to team up with Neymar in the French side’s new forward line but said it was only one of the appeals.

“He is an additional advantage,� Mbappe said. “It is extraordinary to play with him. However I came for the project.� Paris St Germain insists the club has carried out its record summer transfers in complete transparency and “has nothing to hide�, the French club’s president said yesterday.

Ochefu Hopeful as D’Tigers Leave for Tunisia Washington Wizards Centre, Daniel Ochefu, is hopeful and aiming for the trophy as Nigeria begins the campaign to retain the African Cup they won in Tunisia two years ago. Nigeria national basketball team, D’Tigers flew out of the country for Tunisia at 6am yesterday from the Murtala Muhammed Airport in Lagos aboard an Air Maroc flight. The Tigers will start their campaign in the African championship with preliminary games against Cote d’Ivoire, Mali and DR Congo for the competition taking the tip off on Friday. The championship is being hosted jointly for the first time by Senegal and Tunisia.

The team’s final list was made by Coach Alex Nwora on Tuesday after the last work out at the Teslim Balogun Stadium in Lagos. The Nigerian men have added pressure to perform creditably well after the women’s team won the African Cup in Mali barely a fortnight ago. But despite the perceived pressure, Ochefu believes the Tigers can return from Tunis with their heads held high. He said, “We’ll keep the same kind of mentality they (D’Tigers 2015 squad) had when they won the championship in 2015; that’s the way to go.� The Nigerian team is entering

the championship with a lot of players who have never played at the Nations Cup level previously. And this includes Ochefu who is making his debut but he believes that should not count. “My profession is to play basketball; I’m in shape and ready to go. “It doesn’t matter whether it’s my first time or not; we are going to play basketball over there and that I am very ready to do. Nigeria will be the team everyone wants work hard against for obvious reasons. The men won it the last time and the ladies just the whole of Africa again. “Yes, I don’t know much about the system here but I

know basketball very well. I can rebound, I can defend and I can score and that is what I am going there to do.� Nigeria will play the first match on Friday against Cote d’Ivoire. FINAL LIST 1. Abdul Yahaya 2. Dike Azuoma 3. Diogu Ike 4. Deji Akindele 5. O’karo Akamune 6. Bryant Mbamalu 7. Ike Nwamu 8. Akin Akingbala 9. Ike Iroegbu 10. Anthony Odunsi 11. Kelechi Anunna 12. Daniel Ochefu

17TH GOVERNOR’S CUP

ITF Sets Sept 21 Registration Deadline for Players The International Tennis Federation (ITF) has fixed Thursday September 21 as the deadline for players’ registration for the 17th Governor’s Cup Lagos Tennis Championship billed for between October 6 and 21. This was contained in a notice published on the

website of the ITF with other instructions on how the players could register for the two weeks pro circuit event with payment of $40 as entry fee. The London-based ITF also directed that Tuesday, September 26 will be the deadline for withdrawal for any player who is not willing

to play in the competition after registration. It added that the qualifying matches for the first leg (Futures 4) of the tournament will be played from October 7 and 8, while the Main Draws will hold from October 9 and 14 at the Lagos Lawn Tennis Club, Onikan. For the second leg

(Futures 5), a deadline of Thursday,  September 28 has been fixed for registration, while  October 3 date has also been fixed for withdrawal. The second leg will end with the final matches and presentation of trophies on October 21.

T H I S D AY ˾ THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 7, 2017

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THURSDAYSPORTS N P F L M AT C H D AY 3 8 … N P F L M AT C H D AY 3 8 …

Rangers in Last Dance at the Cathedral as Champions Harry Iwuala The surge of human and vehicular traffic on the popular Ogui Road stretched to the Otigba Junction coming from the left side of the Nnamdi Azikiwe Stadium. It has sometime in the course of the 2015/16 Nigeria Professional Football League (NPFL) season been nicknamed The Cathedral. They were all headed to the stadium with different banners but all proclaiming ‘Rangers International, another champion.’ By the end of the evening when Rangers defeated El-Kanemi Warriors to lift their first league title in 32 years, there were over 25,000 fans inside the dome and many more outside. There were all shades on Rangers followers on that day at the stadium, ranging from the very rich to the impoverished, the very important and the proletariat, the popular and the unknown, the old, the youth and children, male and female. It was a scene similar to January 20, 2008, when African Americans watched with teary eyes, smiles of history and sighs of relief as Barack Obama sworn in as the first ever African American President in the over 200 years of democracy in the nation of star spangled banner. Rangers’ fans on October 3, 2016 also wept at the renaissance of the club. Tears of joy flowed because just like the African Americans who never believed there will be an Obama having endured over two centuries of slavery and civil rights denials, many of the older Rangers fans confessed; They never knew they will live to see such spectacle! Sunday, September 3, 2017: At the same Cathedral, seven times champion and eastern neighbours, Enyimba International; were in Enugu for the traditional Oriental Derby but the crowd came in trickles despite the high stakes for both sides in the fixture. But as the encounter progressed with the visitors a goal up, a sudden burst of arrivals hit the stands. Estimates at the end of the match, which saw Rangers claw back to a 1-1 draw was put at over 12,000. As was aptly captured by former Nigerian international and one time African Player of the Year, Victor Ikpeba, one of the pundits for SuperSport, the Official Broadcast partner to the league, “we have half of the fans that witnessed the trophy presentation coming to say goodbye to the trophy”. But earlier before the kick-off, a member of Rangers management had lamented the drop in Rangers’ fortune on and off the field and while not submitting that the change in management is a factor, suggested that they had the wrong persons at the helm. He expressed reservations that the club lost an opportunity to build on last season’s greatness because ideas to entice fans to the stadium were not being addressed. It was learnt that in a bid to shore up the dwindling numbers on the stands, Flavour, the Enugu local who has found continental fame through music was approached to hold up the club’s famous red and white flag as a form of endorsement which he readily agreed. But that huge goodwill was not put to use, it was learnt. This and perhaps, the poor run, exit of key players may explain the huge drop in numbers

Rangers… from champions to strugglers at The Cathedral which recorded an average of 18,000 in attendance every match day last season.

From celebrating title win to jumping up for draw and survival From reactions on the stands during the match, Rangers fans must have longed for a valedictory win and indeed to complete a double over Enyimba. Despite what some of them adjudged as unfair calls by the referee, their glee was not to be denied at the final whistle which saw over 2000 of them breach the security to invade the pitch in light hearted mirth. They turned the turf to a privileged playground, dancing even when there was no music from the loud speakers. Others executed acrobatic displays, doing continuous back flips and seeking ‘Selfie’ photo shots with the players and with each other. You would think it was a celebration of title. Catching up with an elderly fan, Francis Ogbodo who sat rooted on one of the state box seats, he surveyed the scene with deep contemplation and when nudged to give his thoughts, said, “I am just

Okpala

Amapakabo

wondering how the celebration of nearly a year ago has turned to a celebration of survival of relegation? “After a 32-year wait to win the title, we have now gone back below where we started from. It is sad and not a good story to tell the young fans. Our support for Rangers has been sustained by the exploits of the past but what will the younger ones hold on to? It is the reason they are Arsenal, Manchester, Chelsea etc etc.”, concluded Ogbodo as he held the arm rest to support his effort to be on his feet.

Earlier in the day at a popular restaurant, Emily off Ogui Road, I had run into Chibuzor Ozor, the long serving General Manager who superintended the historic win by Rangers before he was relieved of the job. Ozor, called Sayama by some of his friends and associates walks with a bounce. Standing slightly above 4 feet; Ozor who also goes by the nickname, ‘Americana’ dresses to please his senses and not for popular acclaim. At the launch hour encounter, he was

dressed in starched Italian linen white short-sleeved shirt and trousers and after the pleasantries, exclaimed in his affected American accent, “my men, you guys have forgotten me…oh, that’s the way of life but you are my friend and should not abandon me”. There are those who believe that the problems Rangers encountered in the about to end season started right from the podium where the Governor of Enugu State, Rt. Hon. Ifeanyi Ugwuanyi accompanied by the Deputy Senate President, Ikechukwu Ekweremadu received the trophy from the team captain, Okey Odita. A friend from the media pointed out that the governor delivered no inspiring comments to the players and management. He was admonished by another that the occasion was not for making speeches and promises. The next news out of Enugu was the city trophy tour of the players aboard a rickety truck that won’t be certified fit to transport livestock. Thereafter, the blames trading started with some anonymous sources pointing to the direction of the former state commissioner for sports as the brain behind the roadshow of shame.

Finally, shortly before Christmas, the governor hosted the team and promised cash reward totaling N41.5m and lands. The players went away grumbling. The total money offered the players and officials would come to less than N1m for each of the 35 registered players and seven accredited officials. They started the season in tatters, losing 2-1 to Abia Warriors on opening day and prior to that; had finished third in the pre-season tournament, NPFL Super4 which was organised by the League Management Company in Enugu. So continued the free fall, Ozor was sacked and replaced by former captain and coach of Rangers, Christian Chukwu. Coach Imama Amapakabo was next on the firing line after initial disagreements over his contract terms. Players like Chisom Egbuchulam, voted MVP of the NPFL left for Sweden and was followed by Obinna Nwobodo, another key figure in their run for the title. Others were in and out of camp and the internal squabbles showed in their performance every match day.

US OPEN 2017

NWFL Announces New Venus Beats Kvitova in Thriller Dates for Super 4

to Make Semis Venus Williams reached her 23rd Grand Slam semi-final yesterday with a thrilling win over Petra Kvitova in a final-set tie-break. The 37-year-old American won 6-3 3-6 7-6 (7-2) in front of a rapturous night-session crowd in New York. “I was so fortunate to win that match,” said Williams. “It came down to the wire and I’m hoping we have more matches like that.” She next faces Sloane Stephens, with all-American semi-finals possible. Madison Keys and Coco Vandeweghe will try to join their compatriots in the last four when they play their quarter-finals on Wednesday. “I would love the top four,

five to be that American again,” added Williams. “That would be huge.” Kvitova, 27, missed out on a first US Open semi-final, ending a remarkable run just nine months since she suffered a knife attack at her home, which left her requiring surgery to her playing hand. “Everything she has gone through is unbelievable,” said Williams. “It’s wonderful to see her back and playing. I was so excited to see her playing well, to be able to play her.” Given primetime billing in the opening night-session slot, the match began with errors from both women and ended in a gripping finale.

The pair had met five times before and each time they had needed three sets, twice a finalset tie-break, and once again there was nothing between them. A weather warning in the second set prompted a delay of 10 minutes as the roof was brought across, and it intensified the atmosphere as the noise built from 23,000 spectators. Williams gave up the first break of serve at 3-1 with three double faults, before reeling off five straight games as Kvitova racked up the errors. A loose Williams game early in the second offered Kvitova the lifeline she needed, and she clung on through several edgy service games.

The board of the Nigeria Women Football League (NWFL) has announced a shift in date for the annual football fiesta, the Nigeria Women’s Premier League (NWPL) Super Four. The championship, which will make known the champions of the 2016/17 Nigeria Women Premier League (NWPL), will now be held betweenOctober 9 and 14 in Benin City, Edo State. Officials and the participating teams -- Bayelsa Queens, Delta Queens, Nasarawa Amazons and title holders, Rivers Angels -- are expected to arrive in Benin City on Saturday, October 7 while the teams will use the time in between to train prior to the commencement of competitive matches on the9th of October. The championship was initially billed for September 11 through

16 in Benin City, Edo State. The NWFL board chairperson, Aisha Falode, said the postponement, though a difficult decision, becomes necessary because of the FIFA Under-20 World Cup qualifiers between Nigeria’s Falconets and their Tanzanian counterparts taking place in Nigeria on September 16 and Sunday, October 1 in Dar es Salaam, Tanzania. “The NWFL board is compelled to shift the date of the NWPL Super Four championship due to the FIFA U-20 World Cup qualifying matches between Nigeria’s Falconets and Tanzania on Saturday, September 16 in Nigeria and October 1 in Dar es Salaam, Tanzania respectively. “The 2017 Nigeria Women Premier League (NWPL) will now run from October 9-14 in Benin City, Edo State,” she noted.

TR

Thursday, September 7, 2017

UT H

& RE A S O

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Price: N250

MISSILE Nnia Nwodo to President Buhari “As long as President Muhammadu Buhari continues to live out his speech abroad that his government will favour those who voted 97% for him against those who voted 5% for him, so long will the dissatisfaction and unrest in our polity subsist”--Ohanaeze President, Chief John Nwodo, on the recent appointments of 55 senior managers in NNPC that reportedly did not include anybody from the South-east

OLUSEGUNADENIYI THE VERDICT

olusegun.adeniyi@thisdaylive.com

Beyond The Other Room N

ot content with dividing the ‘throne’ of Ibadan and dashing them to his 21 kings, essentially to spite the current Olubadan of Ibadan, Oba Saliu Adetunji, Governor Abiola Ajimobi last weekend decided to add insult to injury: He said one of the young wives of the 89-year old monarch used to run love errands for him back in the days. That has spurred the “Authentic Ibadan Mogajis” to issue a seven-day ultimatum to Ajimobi to withdraw the statement. But the question is: If Ajimobi doesn’t withdraw his statement, and one of his commissioners has already made it very clear that the governor will not, what can the Ibadan Magajis do? Fielding questions from reporters working for the state owned media agency, Broadcasting Service of Oyo State (BCOS), Ajimobi, who incidentally is an Ibadan man, minced no words as to who calls the shot between him and the Olubadan. “It was wrong of Olubadan not to come to Mapo Hall for the coronation (of the 21 new kings). Whether he likes it or not, he (Olubadan) is under the local government because he who pays the piper dictates the tunes. It is an offence for Olubadan to ignore government directive. I spent over N100 Million Naira on Olubadan’s coronation” said Ajimobi who added, “One of Olubadan’s wives is my younger sister. I used to send her to my girlfriends when we were young.” There are so many ways to look at that abuse of power writ large. “I spent over N100 million Naira…” That is public funds Ajimobi is talking about but we all know about the lack of accountability and transparency in the Nigerian public space, even before the gubernatorial Freudian Slip in Oyo State. But if one can excuse the pompous allusion to he who pays the piper dictating the tune, and its ominous implications for good governance, it is very telling that Ajimobi would use one of the monarch’s wives to demonstrate their unequal relationship. In neighbouring Osun State, there is a similar development as the saga of the broken marriage of the Ooni of Ife, Oba Enitan Ogunwusi, continues. Following some unsavoury insinuations, Olori Wuraola (maiden name, Zaynab Otiti-Obanor) last week issued a public statement that the marriage between her and the Ooni had indeed crashed. For effect, she added: “We have to stop this culture of shaming and vilifying women with false stories of infidelity and nefarious behaviour. The spreading of false information (through ‘sources’ afraid to be identified) is the mark of cowards and a cover up for guilty parties to justify their horrific actions. The attempt to tarnish the name of a Queen, in defence of a silent king, makes all involved look terrible.” With that, the social media (where the entire marriage played out from the beginning to the end) went on overdrive. Yet, stripped of all pretensions, traditional rulers are human beings who, like the rest of us, can love and be loved; or more appropriately

Ooni’s former wife, Olori Wuraola in this instance, be unloved. So, it is be no big deal that the Ooni’s wife has decided to take a walk from the palace. The snag, however, is that some Ifa priests have added their own drama to the mix by warning all interested men to stay away from the beautiful ex-queen or else… According to the much respected Chief Yemi Elebuibon, “any man who sleeps with a queen or marries an ex-queen without the appropriate cleansing may die prematurely; he may be struck with sickness or there might be retrogression in his life.” Therefore, should the woman formerly known and addressed as Olori Wuraola seek to date again, she “will be asked to consult Ifa and Ifa will give directions on how she will make the necessary atonement for her cleansing.” Elebuibon explained further that for the ex-queen to remarry, she will have to do the cleansing with her new husband. “Any marriage she would be going into must not be elaborate. They should go far away and avoid any flamboyant wedding,” Elebuibon warned. The question is: If you are a man and you hear of all these “prescriptions”, would you still be bold enough to take any risk with the former queen, no matter how much love you profess for her? Meanwhile, if you imagine that it is only the rich and powerful that is in this game of love and its consequences, then you have apparently not been following the news around the country. Last weekend in Durmin Biri, a community in Kafur Local Government Area of Katsina State, a young man by name, Yari Inusa, died while competing in a Fulani traditional game of Sharo which entails two male suitors flogging each other for a woman’s hand in marriage. As the game goes, whoever wins between the two contending floggers will take the girl home as wife. When the contest started, Inusa reportedly flogged his competitor, Ahmed Saidu, without

any incident; but in the ‘return match’, Saidu literally took matters onto his own hands by going for the head of Inusa, instead of hitting him on the back as the rules of the game dictates. Quite naturally, the love game ended on a tragic note: Inusa is now of blessed memory while Saidu is cooling off at a Police detention centre. There is a way in which we can connect the three stories in a nation where gender not only shapes the distribution of power but also defines the mechanism and consequences of its relations. For instance, Ajimobi’s ‘yourOlori-was-running-errands-for-me’ loaded statement goes beyond a mere attempt to humiliate the Ibadan monarch; it speaks to an unequal power relation with gender as sub-text. The same goes for the attempt to foist on a divorced woman, regardless of who her former husband may be, a lifetime of forced celibacy, for reasons that border on mere ego, even when couched in some inexplicable traditions. And when men begin to physically duel for the hand of a woman in marriage, it goes without saying that the victor reserves enormous powers over such ‘trophies’ when won. These are of course not isolated cases as they fit into a pattern of unequal gender relations in Nigeria. That explains why a 70-year-old widow in Ebonyi State was recently paraded naked around her village for having an affair with a 30-year-old man. Against the background that the age differential that led to the molestation of the woman would not have mattered were she to be a man, and the love interest of the opposite sex, you get the picture that the challenge of gender inequalities in our country is deeply political. Unfortunately, this unequal relationship has more or less been given official imprimatur by President Muhammadu Buhari, whose appointments do not reflect gender sensitivity. Besides, by saying, as he did last year in Germany, that the role of his wife does not extend beyond the kitchen and “the other room”, the president was merely reinforcing the traditional gender stereotype that has no bearing to the reality of modern Nigeria and the contributions of our women. That very point has just been underscored by the Albert Einstein Foundation that is currently “embarking on a global initiative to inspire the next generation of brilliant minds and bring fresh thinking to the problems facing our planet”. To celebrate the 100th anniversary of the publication of Einstein’s ‘General Theory of Relativity’, the Foundation is releasing to the public the world’s first 3D-printed book titled, “Genius: 100 Visions of the Future”. And it is remarkable that among the “100 of the leading influencers, thinkers, artists and scientists of our time” selected from across the globe by the Foundation, are two Nigerians who happen to be women: Literary icon, Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie and technocrat-turned activist, Obiageli (Oby) Ezekwesili. With each of these 100 personalities, among them Nobel Laureates and renowned scholars,

writing a 250-word essay for the historic publication that will be launched this weekend in Montreal, Canada, the point I am making is that there is nothing to suggest that men are more endowed than women, even in Nigeria. Therefore, there is no basis for the privilege system that we seem to have institutionalized or the gender arrogance that has only held back our nation from the prosperity that comes from empowering our women and girls. However, I must state very clearly here that I am not a feminist, whatever that may mean. But as a father of two girls and a boy, I refuse to accept that any of my children is superior or inferior to the other on account of gender while I detest all practices that tend to put down our girls and women or limit their capacity for self-actualisation. That was the point the National Assembly missed when, in the course of a recent Constitutional amendment process, they practically rendered married women in Nigeria “stateless” in the distribution of opportunities in the manner they dealt with the issue of “citizenship and indigeneship”. All said, I am quite aware that it is not easy to change cultures and traditions that have evolved over centuries. But to develop as a nation, we must drop all gender bias and move towards an inclusive society that recognizes both the worth and the contributions (including the intangibles) that our women bring to the table. That will require not only deliberate policy choices but also a change in the mindset of the men in positions of power at all levels.

Ogbeha @ 70!

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t the thanksgiving service for my late father in Ilorin, Kwara State in August 2006, I was surprised when I looked back to see a certain Jonathan Tunde Ogbeha inside the church, sporting the same Ankara print that my family and friends were also wearing for the occasion. Although I knew him to be a fan of my writing (which was what brought us together in the first place), I have since found out that Ogbeha, a retired BrigadierGeneral, former Military Administrator and two-term Senator from Kogi State, is a man who values friendships and relationships to which he is ever true. It therefore came as no surprise that as he clocked 70 last Friday (1st September), his small residence at Apo Legislative Quarters could not contain the crowd of important personalities that turned up as early as 7am for the morning Anglican birthday communion service to mark the occasion. I have over the years learnt a lot from Ogbeha’s simplicity and strength of character and as he joins the class of septuagenarian, even when he doesn’t look it, I wish him many more years of good health and all-round prosperity.

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