Adeosun: 77% of Nigeria’s N19tn Debt is from Domestic Market Says repayment of $5.5bn loans may last 5-30 years FG targets N12tn revenue in 2018 budget, N3.17tn for recurrent spending, N2.6tn for capex Damilola Oyedele in Abuja The Minister of Finance, Mrs. Kemi Adeosun has said 77 per
cent of Nigeria’s total debt stock of N19 trillion was secured from the domestic market, which could create
crowding out and reduce the availability of funds to the private sector. The minister said this while
speaking at a meeting of the Senate Committee on Local and Foreign Debts on the $5.5 billion foreign loan request of
the executive. President Muhammadu Buhari in a letter dated October 4, 2017, had sought
the approval of the National Assembly for the issuance of Continued on page 10
EFCC's Move to Seize Patience Jonathan's Property Stalled… Page 54 Friday 20 October, 2017 Vol 22. No 8219. Price: N250
www.thisdaylive.com TR
UT H
& RE A S O
N
Nigerian Lenders Appoint Barclays to Find New Investors for 9mobile… Page 52
Intels’ Volpi Apologises to NPA, Says Company Will Comply with TSA Policy Says firm remains committed to Badagry deep seaport Eromosele Abiodun The founder and majority shareholder of Intels Nigeria Limited, Nigeria’s oil and gas logistics giant with operations in Onne, Rivers State, Warri, Delta State and Lagos, Mr. Gabriele Volpi has apologised to the federal government and the Nigerian Ports Authority (NPA) over the spat that led to termination of the Pilotage
Agency Agreement between his company and NPA. Speaking exclusively to THISDAY yesterday evening, the normally reticent Volpi, who holds dual Italian and Nigerian citizenship, said he was not involved in the negotiations between his firm and NPA over the disagreement on the pilotage Continued on page 12
SEC Appoints Deloitte to Lead Forensic Audit of Oando as Firm’s Shares are Suspended on JSE Market welcomes action Goddy Egene In furtherance of its resolve to carry out a forensic audit of Oando Plc, the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) has revealed that it has appointed audit firm, Akintola Williams Deloitte, to lead the team of experts to undertake the audit of Oando. Other experts appointed by SEC are registrar, United Securities Limited; the law
firm, SPA Ajibade & Co; Tjadap Consulting and Associates; and Nasiru Muhammad & Co. This is just as the Johannesburg Stock Exchange (JSE) yesterday took a cue from the Nigerian Stock Exchange (NSE) by suspending trading in the company’s shares on the Johannesburg bourse. SEC on Wednesday had directed the NSE to place Continued on page 10
Dogara: Restructuring Not Achievable without Constitution Amendment... Page53
ENGAGING WITH ERDOGAN... President Muhammadu Buhari (lef), being welcomed to the Presidential Palace in Ankara, Turkey, by President Recep Tayyip Erdogan of Turkey… yesterday
2
T H I S D AY FRIDAY OCTOBER 20, 2017
T H I S D AY FRIDAY OCTOBER 20 2017
3
4
T H I S D AY FRIDAY OCTOBER 20, 2017
7KH : $FDGHP\ DQG (QWHUSULVH 'HYHORSPHQW &HQWHU 3UHVHQW
20(135(1(85 $ 2QH 'D\ 2SHQ 6HPLQDU IRU :RPHQ (QWUHSUHQHXUV
6+( :+2 '$5(6 72 68&&((' &RPH OHDUQ DQG Å‚QG RXW VLPSOH VHFUHWV WR SHUIRUPLQJ EH\RQG \RXU H[SHFWDWLRQV LQ EXVLQHVV
6HPLQDU 0RGXOHV 'LJLWDOL]LQJ D 0DUNHWLQJ 3ODQ 0DNLQJ RSHUDWLRQV FKHDSHU IDVWHU DQG EHWWHU ,QWURGXFWLRQ WR 60( 7RRONLW *HWWLQJ WKH EHVW IRU IUHH )LQDQFLDO 5HFRUGV DQG $FFRXQWLQJ 6LPSOLÅ‚HG /RFDWLRQ 7KH 1(&$ (YHQW &HQWUH ,NHMD /DJRV 6WDWH 'DWH 7KXUVGD\ 2FWREHU WK 7LPH DP SP )HH 1 : FRPPXQLW\ PHPEHUV DQG $FFRXQW KROGHUV
1 5HJXODU IHH
$FFRXQW QDPH $FFHVV %DQN : (YHQWV $FFRXQW QXPEHU
9LVLW ZZZ WKHZFRPPXQLW\ FRP WR UHJLVWHU 12:
T H I S D AY FRIDAY OCTOBER 20 2017
5
6
T H I S D AY FRIDAY OCTOBER 20, 2017
7
T H I S D AY FRIDAY OCTOBER 20 2017
8
T H I S D AY FRIDAY OCTOBER 20, 2017
T H I S D AY FRIDAY OCTOBER 20 2017
9
FRIDAY, ͺ˜ ͺͿ ˾ T H I S D AY
10
PAGE TEN
FG Promises to Release Names of Suspected Looters Soon Davidson Iriekpen The Attorney General of the Federation (AGF) and Minister of Justice, Abukabar Malami (SAN), has disclosed that President Muhammadu Buhari has directed all relevant agencies to compile the names of all suspected looters, including those who are either standing trial and those who, on their own volition, returned funds to the federal government. A Federal High Court in Lagos had ordered the government to make public the names of high-ranking officials from whom public funds had been recovered. The court also ordered the government to tell Nigerians the circumstances under which the recoveries were made and the exact amount
of funds recovered from each public official. Malami made the disclosure yesterday during a meeting in his office in Abuja with a delegation from a civil society organisation, Socio-Economic Rights and Accountability Project (SERAP). In a statement by SERAP’s Executive Director, Adetokunbo Mumuni on the meeting with the AGF, Mumuni said: “We had a very productive meeting with Malami, discussing among other critical issues the need for the government to obey the judgment delivered in July by Justice Hadiza Rabiu Shagari, following a Freedom of Information (FoI) suit number: FHC/ CS/964/2016 brought by SERAP.”
According to Mumuni, Malami informed the group that the president had directed the Ministries of Justice and Finance, Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC) and other relevant agencies involved in the recovery of looted funds to promptly put the documents together with a view to fully and promptly enforcing the judgment by Justice Shagari. “We appreciate the opportunity to meet with the AGF and look forward to working with him as the government strives to enforce this very important judgment. “We hope that the implementation of the
judgment will now happen sooner rather than later. We believe that effectively implementing the judgment will be a victory for the rule of law, show the way forward in the fight against corruption and impunity of perpetrators in the country, as well as demonstrate Buhari’s oft-repeated commitment to tackling the problem of grand corruption,” Mumuni added. SERAP’s suit followed the disclosure last year by the federal government of funds recovered from some high-ranking public officials and private individuals. In her judgment delivered on July 5, Justice Shagari agreed with SERAP that “the federal government has a legally binding obligation to tell Nigerians the names of all suspected looters of
the public treasury past and present”. Joined as defendants in the suit were the Minister of Information Alhaji Lai Mohammed and the Federal Ministry of Information and Culture. The same day that the judgment was delivered, Malami told journalists in Abuja that government was in agreement with the ruling and would carry out the order as long as it did not amount to sub judice. The Ministry of Information last year published details of the recoveries, which showed that the Nigerian government had successfully retrieved cash amounting to N78,325,354,631.82, $185,119,584.61, £3,508,355.46 and €11,250 between May 29, 2015, and May 25, 2016.
Also released were recoveries under interim forfeiture, which were a combination of cash and assets, during the same period: N126,563,481,095.43, $9,090,243,920.15, £2,484,447.55 and €303,399.17. Anticipated repatriation from foreign countries totalled $321,316,726.1, £6,900,000 and €11,826.11. The ministry also announced that 239 non-cash recoveries were made during the one-year period. The non-cash recoveries were farmlands, plots of land, uncompleted buildings, completed buildings, vehicles and maritime vessels. Subsequently, SERAP issued an FoI request and gave the information minister 14 days to disclose the names of all suspected looters.
the expeditious passage of a Bill to Establish the National Centre for Disease Control. Although the National Assembly has kept mum on the 2018 budget parameters and the revenue and expenditure for next year and those of 2019-2020 which are normally included in the MTEF, sources in the Budget Office of the Federation disclosed that government is targeting N11.983 trillion revenue from oil and non-oil sources in the 2018 fiscal year. The MTEF also projected total federally collectible revenue of N15,179,080,402,702 and N16,813,316,506,209 in 2019 and 2020, respectively. Of the N12 trillion revenue projected for 2018, N6,128,290,144,686 is expected from the oil sector, while N5,596,745,945,657 is expected from non-oil sector. The sum of N350 billion was proposed for special interventions (recurrent), N2,597,246,628,719 is projected for capital expenditure in 2018, amounting to 30 per cent of the total budget, while N3,169,117,545,129 was set aside for recurrent expenditure, out of which N65 billion is for the amnesty programme; N2,122,268,415,101 is for personnel cost of the ministries, departments and agencies (MDAs); and N245,200,853,273 for overheads. The 2018 budget
deficit was pegged at N2,948,777,905,500 (2.61 per cent) against a gross domestic product (GDP) of N113,088,878,152,768. The fiscal deficit is to be maintained at 3 per cent of GDP as stipulated under the Fiscal Responsibility Act, but at an average of about 1.93 per cent of GDP in 2019 and declining to less than 1 per cent of GDP by 2020. Of the N2,028,011,577,001 proposed for debt service, N1,764,125,038,534 was allocated to domestic debt service, N263,886,538,467 was projected for foreign debt service, while N220 billion was provided for the sinking fund to retire maturing bonds for local contractors. The MTEF showed that debt financing is expected to be restructured gradually in favour of foreign financing while domestic financing is de-emphasised. While the proportionate share of foreign financing will increase from the current level of about 28 per cent to almost 72 per cent in 2020, domestic financing will decrease gradually from about 54 per cent in 2016 to about 26 per cent in 2020. This is expected to prevent the crowding out of the private sector and accord the private sector a lead role in driving growth, the MTEF said.
ADEOSUN: 77% OF NIGERIA’S N19TN DEBT IS FROM DOMESTIC MARKET $3 billion Eurobond/Diaspora Bond in the international capital market to refinance maturing domestic debts, and $2.5 billion external borrowing to finance the capital component of the 2017 budget. Adeosun, defending the loan requests yesterday, said there was need to reduce government domestic debt to free up banks that had invested heavily in Treasury Bills and FGN Bonds so that can lend to the private sector in order to stimulate economic activities. She was represented at the meeting by the Director General of the Debt Management Office (DMO), Ms. Patience Oniha. “If the government is so visible in the local market, it means the government is taking most of the money which ought to go to the private sector. It is called crowding out. “If the government is not so visible in the domestic market, there will be enough for the banks to lend to the private sector, which would improve the economy,” Adeosun said. A breakdown of domestic debts shows that N3.7 trillion is invested in Treasury Bills alone, with maturity tenures between three months and one year, she added. Adeosun further explained that domestic debts are expensive with interest rates at 16 per cent and higher and have relatively short tenures.
Responding to queries from the lawmakers, Adeosun said the tenure of the external loans being sought by the federal government had not yet been determined but could range from between five and 30 years. “We have them in various tenures. At the time you get to the market and you want to price, you will be more certain about the price. It could be anywhere from five to 30 years,” she explained. Allaying concerns about amassing foreign loans that will be borne by future generations of Nigerians, she said: “The truth is that if we are borrowing long-term, we are using it to finance capital projects which are also long-term and the benefits of those projects are also long-term. “I believe that some of the roads and even institutions, like some universities, that we see today were built before some of us were born. We should look at it that way, that the benefits are also long-term.” She however declined to comment on whether “recovered loot” by the federal government will be deployed to repay some of the domestic debts, but assured the committee that any revenue accruing to the government including internally generated revenue would be judiciously used. The Minister of Transportation, Mr. Rotimi Amaechi, who also appeared
before the committee to defend the funding component for railway projects from the external loans, said about $36 billion was needed to revamp and complete a modern railway infrastructure for Nigeria. He however noted that it would be gradual as Nigeria does not have the funds to undertake all at once. “Fixing the railway infrastructure would take pressure off the roads, you can imagine the impact on agriculture and in turn the economy, when people can seamlessly move goods,” Amaechi said. He added that the KanoWarri and Kano- Kaduna rail tracks would be funded from the loan, while his ministry would return to seek more appropriation for Ibadan-Kaduna rail line. Amaechi said about 80 per cent of the 36 state capitals were already covered by the designs for the railways, but funds would be required for actualisation. Speaking earlier, the chairman of the committee, Senator Shehu Sani (Kaduna, APC) said the Senate was aware of the concerns of many Nigerians with respect to another round of borrowings and would require justification for the loans. “Some of the questions Nigerians and indeed our constituents have asked repeatedly include: what has the federal government done with the reported
recovered loot allegedly traced to the previous administration? What role can such monies play in the 2017 budget financing? How much indeed has been recovered? Has the National Assembly appropriated the recovered loot for government expenditure?” Sani enquired. In another development, the Senate is set to consider a motion on the disbursement of the Paris-London Club refund as bailout to the state governments without the approval of the National Assembly. Notice of the motion was brought to the Senate at plenary by Senator Sam Anyanwu (Imo, PDP) who also expressed concern that while governors continue to receive bailout funds, most of the states still owe workers’ salaries. “The funds are not budgeted, I have not seen where the Senate approved the release of the funds,” he said. In line with the Senate Rules, the motion was stepped down for consideration on the next legislative day, being next Tuesday. During plenary, Senate President Bukola Saraki also read the letter from the president seeking the passage of the 2018-2020 Medium Term Expenditure Framework (MTEF) and Fiscal Strategy Paper (FSP). Saraki also read a letter from the president seeking
SEC APPOINTS DELOITTE TO LEAD FORENSIC AUDIT OF OANDO AS FIRM’S SHARES ARE SUSPENDED ON JSE Oando’s shares on full suspension for two days and place them on a technical suspension with effect from today, following its probe into two petitions received from two shareholders of the company – Alhaji Dahiru Barau Mangal and Ansbury Inc. The suspension, according to SEC, was to enable it to conduct a forensic audit into the affairs of Oando, which has dual listing on the NSE and JSE. “To ensure the independence and transparency of the exercise, the forensic audit will be conducted by a consortium of experts made up of auditors, lawyers, stockbrokers and registrars,”
SEC said in a statement. SEC explained that it had carried out a comprehensive review of the petitions from Mangal and Ansbury and found a breach of the provisions of the Investments & Securities Act (ISA) 2007; breach of the SEC Code of Corporate Governance for Public Companies; suspected insider dealing; suspected related party transactions not conducted at arm’s length; and discrepancies in the shareholding structure of Oando Plc, among others. SEC said these findings were weighty and needed further investigation. Providing more information on its probe of Oando, a senior executive of SEC, who preferred not
to be named, said yesterday that the commission has appointed Deloitte to lead the team of experts to handle the forensic audit of the energy firm. He informed THISDAY in a phone interview that Deloitte and the other firms that make up the forensic team were being brought in to validate the probe already done by SEC for the past three months, adding that it is only after the audit by external experts that the commission would take a final decision on Oando. “We have been carrying out our investigation into Oando for three months and a lot of work has been done by SEC in this regard. “But Deloitte and others
will undertake the audit independently, so that they can validate what we have already done. It is only after this that a decision will be taken on the next course of action on Oando,” he said. The official said the commission was committed to protecting the market and shareholders, adding that it would be thorough and professional in its handling of the Oando matter. But even as the forensic audit was being awaited, the Johannesburg bourse said yesterday that it had suspended trading in Oando shares, pending clarification from the NSE on the matter. According to Johannesburg based Business Day newspaper, a statement was
issued via the JSE’s Sens service yesterday morning saying Oando’s listing had been suspended “pending clarification following the review of subsequent correspondence received on October 18 from the Nigerian Stock Exchange and SEC”. Since the suspension on the NSE, Oando has said it will provide a full statement of the company’s position as soon as possible. The shares of Oando closed at N5.99 on Tuesday on the NSE. The stock had hit a year high of N9.57 before negative reactions by investors to the petitions led to a drop in the share Continued on page 12
TOP GAINERS CUTIX INTERBREW FIDSON BOCGASES NEM TOP LOSERS AXAMANSARD C & I LEASING FIDELITY
NGN NGN 0.17 2.37 2.21 46.52 0.17 3.59 0.18 3.59 0.06 1.41 NGN NGN 0.12 2.36 0.09 1.81 0.07 1.41 LINKAGE 0.04 0.84 FORTEOIL 2.00 46.00 HPE Nestle Nig Plc ₦1,200.27 Volume: 140.879 million shares Value: N1.722 billion Deals: 4,159 As at yesterday 19/10/17 See details on Page 43
% 7.7 4.9 4.9 4.7 4.4 % 4.8 4.7 4.7 4.5 4.1
11
T H I S D AY FRIDAY OCTOBER 20 2017
5@5H B;
p { = | x | = | x ~ |
_i_q ab_ip µÉúƚ Á ÿªÂ¢ƚܧÉÕժ¢ »Üƚ  ƚ ªÜ ÉçÂäÜ ô§ ÂƚúÉçƚçÜ ƚ ; aů
b x { CKB@C58 H<9 5@@lB9K & . 5DD CB !CC;@9 *@5M CF H<9 =)- DD -HCF9 BCK 5B8 G=;B ID HC ;9H @=:9GHM@9 5B8 G<CDD=B; 895@G 5@5HtB;
5@5HtB;
5@5HB;
<9@D 5@5H B; w OVOOQQTTQTQW
FRIDAY, ͺ˜ ͺͿ ˾ T H I S D AY
12
NEWS
Kidnapping Kingpin, Evans, Accomplices Change Plea to Not Guilty Akinwale Akintunde The criminal trial of kidnapping kingpin, Chukwudumeme Onwuamadike, better known as Evans, and his accomplices took a new turn in court yesterday, as the suspects who had earlier pleaded guilty to a two-count charge of kidnapping and conspiracy preferred against them, changed their pleas to not guilty. The Lagos State Government had on August 30 arraigned Evans alongside Uche Amadi, Ogechi Uchechukwu, Okwuchukwu Nwachukwu, Chilaka Ifeanyi and Victor Aduba before Justice Hakeem Oshodi of an Ikeja High Court. Evans, Amadi and Nwachukwu pleaded guilty to the charges while Uchechukwu, the only female defendant, Ifeanyi and Aduba pleaded not guilty to the charges. According to the prosecution, Evans and his accomplices committed
the offence of conspiracy at 7.45 p.m. on February 14 at Obokun Street, Ilupeju, Lagos. The prosecution said the defendants between February 14 and April 12 at Obokun Street, Ilupeju, while armed with guns and other dangerous weapons, captured and detained Mr. Duru Donatus. The defendants were also accused of collecting a ransom of 223,000 euros before Donatus was released. But while being rearraigned on the amended charges yesterday, Evans and the co-defendants changed their guilty plea to not guilty after the amended charges were read to them. In the amended charges, the defendants, who were remanded in prison by the court after the initial arraignment, are still facing a two-count charge on conspiracy and kidnapping. The defendants who were originally charged under Sections 411 and 271(3) Criminal Law Cap C17 Laws of Lagos State 2015 are now
being charged under Section 2(1) of the Kidnapping Prohibition Law, No 13, Laws of Lagos State 2017. Unlike the State Criminal Law 2015, which prescribes 21 years for convicts, the Kidnapping Prohibition Law, No 13, Laws of Lagos State 2017 prescribes a death sentence if victims die in the custody of kidnappers. At yesterday’s proceedings, the prosecution led by the Director, Directorate of Public Prosecution (DPP), Titilayo Shitta-Bey informed the court that they had filed an amended charge against the defendants and served their counsel, adding that they were ready to commence trial. But the defence counsel, Messrs Olukoya Ogungbeje, Joseph Otogblu and A.A. Ozogbu opposed the prosecution, saying that the prosecution had served them the amended charges only yesterday morning in court. Except for Mr. Olanrewaju Ajanaku, counsel for the 4th defendant, other defence
counsel prayed the court for an adjournment to enable them to confer with their clients and respond to the amended charges. The defence counsel also told the court that they all had different applications pending before the court, which they argued will be overtaken by events if the trial should commence. Responding, Shitta-Bey opposed the defence and urged the court to allow the charges to be read and for the defendants to take their fresh plea. Shitta-bey argued that there were no material changes in the nature of the charges against the defendants. Justice Oshodi, in his short ruling, screened the various pending applications of the defence and struck all of them out. Subsequently, the defence counsel urged the court for an adjournment to enable them to respond to the Evans amended charge just served Section 36 of the Constitution, on them. Justice Oshodi, citing granted their prayers and
adjourned the matter till November 3, 2017, for trial.
INTELS’ VOLPI APOLOGISES TO NPA, SAYS COMPANY WILL COMPLY WITH TSA POLICY agreement but was apologetic for the misunderstanding that had taken place. He also resolved to ensure that Intels undertakes a reconciliation process with the NPA and transfers all the revenue collected from the boats monitoring and supervision services in Nigerian maritime waters to the Treasury Single Account (TSA) with the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN), in compliance with the policy of the federal government. “We want to apologise to the federal government and NPA over this disagreement with Intels. I was not personally involved in the negotiations with NPA, but we apologise for what has happened. “We intend to comply with the directive of government and transfer all the revenue
to the TSA because we are a law-abiding company,” Volpi informed THISDAY on the phone. Volpi added that his company was committed to co-operating with the federal government and the NPA in the development of the country’s maritime sector, including the construction of the Badagry deep seaport in Lagos State. “We are committed to co-operating with the government and NPA in the development of Nigeria’s maritime sector and this includes the Badagry deep seaport. “The Badagry deep seaport is a massive undertaking which will cost billions of dollars and will be the biggest in Africa and would turn Nigeria into a regional hub for ships bringing goods
to the continent. “It will also help to move a lot of shipping activities at the Apapa and Tin-can Island ports and help to decongest Apapa, so we are serious about our investments in Nigeria,” he said. Efforts to reach the Managing Director of NPA, Ms. Hadiza Bala-Usman to react to Volpi’s apology were unsuccessful, as her phone was switched off. Intels and NPA have been engaged in a war of words since the termination of the pilotage agreement by the latter last week over what NPA had said was its refusal to remit the revenue accruable from the pilotage services to the TSA. THISDAY had exclusively reported that the AttorneyGeneral of the Federation
(AGF) and Minister of Justice Mr. Abubakar Malami (SAN) had written to Bala-Usman on September 27, directing her to terminate the pilotage agreement on the grounds that the contract was illegal ab initio. Malami in the said letter had stated that the agreement which had allowed Intels to receive revenue on behalf of NPA for seven years, was in contravention of the Nigerian Constitution, especially in view of the implementation of the TSA policy of the government. Drawing the attention of Bala-Usman to the illegality of the agreement, Malami made it expressly clear that the agreement violated Sections 80(1) and 162(1) and (10) of the constitution, and wondered why the parties – NPA and Intels – did not
revert their minds to the relevant provisions when they were negotiating the agreement in 2010. On the basis of Malami’s letter, NPA on October 11 terminated the agreement, drawing the ire of Intels, which in a statement sent exclusively to THISDAY, termed the action “preposterous and the consequences highly injurious” to the interests of Nigeria. Intels also threatened to take the matter to arbitration, but by Tuesday had softpedalled on its combative stance. Intels is Nigeria’s biggest oil and gas logistics service provider, with its operational headquarters in Onne. It was set up three decades ago by Volpi and former Vice-President Atiku
Abubakar who has always held a minority stake in the firm. Company sources informed THISDAY that until recently, the former vice-president held a 17.2 per cent stake in Intels, which he whittled down after he sold part of his stake to former Lagos State governor and National Leader of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Bola Tinubu. “It is often erroneously reported in the media that Intels belongs to Atiku Abubakar. But he has always been a minority shareholder in the company. Until recently, he had a 17.2 per cent stake in Intels, but even that was whittled down when he sold part of his stake to Asiwaju Bola Tinubu,” explained a company source recently.
SEC APPOINTS DELOITTE TO LEAD FORENSIC AUDIT OF OANDO AS FIRM’S SHARES ARE SUSPENDED ON JSE price to the current level. Mangal and Ansbury had petitioned SEC early this year, claiming majority ownership in Oando. They had also warned that the company was being mismanaged by the management led by Tinubu. They had pushed for the removal of Tinubu and his deputy so as to save it from going under. One of the petitioners, Ansbury, had in its petition urged SEC to stop Oando from holding its Annual General Meeting (AGM), which still went ahead on September 11, 2017. Ansbury had alleged serious financial abuse and accused the management of Oando of gross abuse of corporate governance tenets in its running of the company. The petition titled, “Serious Concern to Corporate Governance Existence,
Gross Abuse of Corporate Governance and Financial Management in Oando Plc – Request for Urgent Regulatory Intervention,” cited page eight of the company’s annual report of 2016, stating that “strong uncertainty regarding the going concern status of the group had already arisen in 2015 and strengthened in 2016 as clearly pointed out by the auditors in their report”. However, SEC allowed the AGM to hold, saying that after the conclusion of its investigations, decisions taken at the AGM could be reversed. Explaining their position on the AGM, the management of Oando had said the company had fully co-operated with SEC, availed the commission of all documents requested, and provided clarification and appropriate rebuttals
to the issues raised. But during its AGM in Uyo, Akwa Ibom State, the meeting was disrupted by protesting shareholders who decried the alleged mismanagement of the company. Irrespective of the protest, Oando was able to get its resolutions passed at the AGM. Meanwhile, reactions to the suspension order on the company’s shares started to trickle in from the market with several analysts welcoming the probe by SEC. Speaking on the development, stockbrokers said it was necessary and would finally resolve the speculations and allegations surrounding Oando’s operations. Veteran stockbroker and General Secretary of the Association of Stockbroking Houses of Nigeria (ASHON),
Mr. Sam Onukwue said the action of SEC was appropriate and within its powers as the apex capital market regulator. “The investing public deserves to know the goings on in that company and to be protected from any governance infractions that could impair their investments. “SEC’s action will further reassure investors of the strong regulatory environment now in place in our market,” he said. Onukwue, who is the Managing Director of Mega Equities Limited, added that the regulator should ensure that the probe is done without fear or favour so as to safeguard the investments of many shareholders in the company in particular and the market in general. Another senior stockbroker and Managing Director of Highcap Securities Limited,
Mr. David Adonri said this may be the beginning of the end of the company as a listed entity. “For several years, the company has been a source of worry to investors and capital market operators. There has been a serious question mark on their honesty and corporate governance. “On several occasions, they were accused of overtrading and minority shareholders requested for the resignation of the CEO so that investors confidence could be restored in the company. “The company shares are widely held by investors, so its failure will have a negative impact on the capital market,” he said. Also speaking on the condition of anonymity, another broker, however, urged SEC to tread with caution in order not to
discourage other companies from accessing the nation’s capital market. “It is true that Oando Plc has been in the news lately obviously for the wrong reasons. But from what we have read in the papers, the real problem is between just two or three shareholders. Their disagreement should not be allowed to impact negatively on other thousands of shareholders. “SEC should look into the matter dispassionately and ensure equity and justice,” the broker said. Oando is an integrated energy firm with expansive operations in the downstream, midstream and upstream segments of the Nigeria’s oil and gas sector. It grew its portfolio in 2014 with the $1.5 billion acquisition of ConocoPhillips’ upstream assets when the U.S. oil multinational exited Nigeria.
T H I S D AY FRIDAY OCTOBER 20 2017
13
14
T H I S D AY ˾ ˜ Ͱͮ˜ Ͱͮͯ͵
COMMENT
Editor, Editorial Page PETER ISHAKA Email peter.ishaka@thisdaylive.com
IS POLITICAL COMMITMENT ENOUGH TO END AIDS? Djibril Diallo argues that the continent could do more to contain the disease
D
espite the commendable progress toward ending AIDS globally, the urgent need to quicken the pace of action in West and Central Africa was unmistakable at the time the “2016 United Nations Political Declaration on ending AIDS” by 2030 was agreed in June 2016. With only 28 per cent of people living with HIV receiving antiretroviral therapy in the region at the end of 2015, compared to the 54 per cent in Eastern and Southern Africa, political leaders in the region were determined to map out a plan to help West and Central Africa catch up with other parts of the world. The ambition to meet the 90-90-90 targets by 2020 of having 90 per cent of people living with HIV get tested and know their status, 90 per cent of those who know their status put on sustained antiretroviral therapy, and 90 per cent of those on sustained antiretroviral therapy to achieve viral suppression, needed to be kept alive. In close collaboration with the Joint United Nations Programme on HIV/AIDS (UNAIDS) and other key partners, the region has put together a catch-up plan that is helping to fast track the HIV response to meet the ambitious targets by 2020. Heads of state and government endorsed it during the AIDS Watch Africa meeting held in July, under the leadership of the Chair of the African Union, President Alpha Condé of Guinea, to help get the region’s HIV response back on track in less than two years. It complements existing plans that the countries have been using to address HIV and AIDS. This new plan gives West and Central Africa the opportunity to own the HIV response through stronger leadership at the national and sub-national levels. It also opens new windows to improve service delivery and secure the necessary funding from governments, development partners and captains of industry in the private sector. We now have an opportunity to close any gaps in treatment by immediately putting those 850,000 people who had been diagnosed as living with HIV, but were not yet enrolled in care, on antiretroviral therapy. An additional 250,000
WE NOW HAVE AN OPPORTUNITY TO CLOSE ANY GAPS IN TREATMENT BY IMMEDIATELY PUTTING THOSE 850,000 PEOPLE WHO HAD BEEN DIAGNOSED AS LIVING WITH HIV, BUT WERE NOT YET ENROLLED IN CARE, ON ANTIRETROVIRAL THERAPY
people living with HIV, including 60,000 children, can now be newly tested, diagnosed with HIV and immediately linked to sustained antiretroviral therapy. Importantly, an additional 100,000 pregnant women living with HIV can receive antiretroviral therapy to keep them free from AIDS and keep their unborn children free from HIV. The signs that political leaders are fulfilling their promise to redouble efforts to achieve the “2016 United Nations Political Declaration on ending AIDS” by 2030 are now clear. On September 21, for instance, six heads of state and government joined the UNAIDS Executive Director Michel Sidibé at the HIV Fast Track side event convened by President Yoweri Museveni of Uganda at the 72ndUnited Nations General Assembly in New York to share messages of renewed commitment and hope that the HIV response was gaining the momentum it requires to make AIDS history. In our region, for instance, Nigeria, the biggest country in the region with the second highest HIV/AIDS burden globally has already succeeded in putting more than one million people living with HIV on life-saving treatment. The country used the opportunity at the side event to make a commitment to put an additional 50,000 people living with HIV on treatment each year, using domestic resources. The political leadership has given us the guidance that can ensure that most of the 6.5 million people living with HIV in West and Central Africa get to know their status and receive the life-saving treatment that they need in less than two years. The pace of the HIV response in West and Central Africa is quickening. Our active joint actions on the ground, engaging the authorities, communities, private sector, UN and partners, in the 25 countries of the region is critical to sustaining this new momentum. Dr. Diallo is the UNAIDS Director of the Regional Support Team for West and Central Africa
RELEARNING GRIEF, REKINDLING HOPE Did the nation learn any lesson from the Asaba massacre 50 years ago? Godwin Nzeakah doubts
E
xactly half a century ago during the early weeks of the Nigerian civil war, federal troops mounted a counter-offensive against Biafran troops who had surged almost unchecked through the Midwest region all the way to Ore and were looking to push on to Lagos, the federal capital. Under the command of Colonel Murtala Muhammed, the second division of the Nigerian Army successfully repelled the secessionist forces all the way back to the banks of the Niger River. The retreating Biafran troops blew up the Niger Bridge, leaving the advancing federal troops holed up in Asaba on the west bank of the river. According to the most widely corroborated accounts, Asaba indigenes being mostly of Igbo ethnicity but nominally not part of Biafra were eager to express their support for and belief in “one Nigeria”, especially because the federal troops had embarked on indiscriminate reprisal killings of civilians in the town claiming they were Biafran sympathisers. So on the morning of Saturday, October 7, 1967, thousands of men, women and children clad in native white attires embarked on a march through the streets of Asaba chanting “one Nigeria” solidarity songs which they hoped would appease the federal soldiers and stem the tide of violence. Instead, the troops separated all the men and boys from the crowd and assembled them in a village square where they were then machine-gunned to death. The casualty count was estimated to be over 700, including teenage boys some as young as 12 years old. It was one of many gruesome massacres that occurred just before and during the civil war, and possibly one of the most heinous. A few people have attempted to excuse this sordid event as one of the “evils of war.” Perhaps such amoral reductionism
would have made some logical sense if the Nigerian polity has remained free of such state organised massacres after the civil war ended. However, Zaki-Biam, Odi and other more recent carnage in peace time are pointers to suggest that something deeper, something beyond the helpless savagery that war provokes, is unhinged in our national psyche. Losing a loved one is often followed by a fairly typical cascade of emotional reactions we’ve come to recognise as grief. In the immediate aftermath of a loss, people could find themselves feeling a combination of shock and disbelief. As reality of the loss begins to set in, the disbelief gives way to intense sorrow and anguish, followed by pining and yearning over the lost one. These reactions last for a duration ranging from several days to several weeks. Eventually, most people are able to reconcile themselves to the fact that the loved one is no more and then they try to move on with life. When tragedy strikes on such large scale as the Asaba massacre, not only the family members and friends of the deceased are expected to grieve. One hallmark of civilisation is the way modern societies interpret and respond to tragedy. How shocked are we whenever we see yet another report of a tragic loss of human lives anywhere in the country? Do we experience any sorrow at all, even if just for what the survivors and bereaved must be going through at such a time? Do we allow ourselves to even imagine the feeling of anguish some of the affected people are struggling with at that very time? Or do we just skip all that and cavalierly attempt to move on almost right at the very start? While some could argue that an excess of tragedies may have numbed the Nigerian psyche to pain, yet isn’t it possible that we experience an excess of tragedies because we have allowed
ourselves to become callous to the distress of our fellow compatriots? The soul of a nation, our collective subconscious, has been traumatised repeatedly by mindless violent tragedies so much that we’ve forgotten how to grieve as a society. But grief has a purpose. It helps human beings to repair and heal, individually and collectively. Unhealed people continue to experience pain and suffering, while non-healing societies inevitably become dangerous and toxic. We have become numb to the sufferings of our fellow men so much that national tragedies are often politicised and sectionalised, reduced to petty ethno-geographical squabbles that leave us less and less human. Little wonder why it appears the Nigerian state appears not to appreciate the true worth of a human life. All lives ought to matter, young and old, male and female, Igbo, Yoruba Hausa/ Fulani or Ijaw. None matters more than the other, and nothing matters more. We must appreciate and preserve the sanctity of human life, empathise with and support those who are grieving. Coming at such a perilous time when once again the raison d’etre of our national unity is being questioned by some while many more are clamouring for a renegotiation of the terms of our association, it is imperative we learn to grieve as one people. A bombing in Borno is not simply yet another northern Islamic terrorism tragedy, and a massacre in Onitsha is not simple another Igbo-Biafran tragedy. A carnage anywhere is a national tragedy for which the culprits must be condemned by all, and the victims/ survivors consoled by all as well. As the people of Asaba commemorated their loss on October 7, the rest of the country east, west and north must stand with them on this solemn day. Most of us were not there that Saturday morning in
Asaba and so could have done nothing to prevent the carnage. But if we all decide to collectively stand with the kinsmen and women of the deceased here and now, we can deepen the bonds of our brotherhood, and begin to forge that inner consciousness of oneness from which a nation’s true soul is born. It is commonly said that those who fail to learn from history are condemned to repeat the mistakes of history. We shouldn’t just remember, we must also strive to learn the right lessons. The 50th anniversary of the massacre provides the opportunity for us to extricate a golden lesson from that horrible October day. That no one has been held culpable till today for orchestrating the massacre is in itself another tragedy. It is a stark reflection of the shameless dilution of humanity we have chosen to tolerate and perpetuate in our polity. Nevertheless, forgiveness on the part of the bereaved is not impossible even when the culprits go unpunished. The Asaba October 7 Memorial Group chaired by Alban Ofili-Okonkwo is a committee saddled with the responsibility of organising this year’s commemorative activities and they have chosen “Remembrance and Forgiveness” as the theme for the 50th anniversary of that epic tragedy. By choosing to forgive without recriminations, the people of Asaba are healing themselves from the trauma of that terrible day. And in so doing, they are providing the rest of the Nigerian nation with a chance to heal our damaged (if at all existent) national psyche by pondering critically on what went wrong that day because in the words of Thomas Szasz, “the naïve forgive and forget. The stupid neither forgive nor forget. The wise never forget but forgive”. Nzeakah is a former editor of Sunday Punch
15
T H I S D AY Ëž Ëœ Í°ÍŽËœ Í°ÍŽÍŻÍľ
EDITORIAL OF VCS AND NIGERIAN GRADUATES Many vice-chancellors are implicated in the steady decline in university education
T
he Association of Vice Chancellors of Nigerian Universities (AVCNU) recently decried what it considers the ‘unemployability’ of majority of our graduates. AVCNU chairman, who is also the vice-chancellor of the Redeemer’s University, Professor Debo Adeyewa, in his address at the 32nd edition of its annual conference, challenged his colleagues and other stakeholders to tackle the nagging problem. According to Adeyewa, “the entrepreneurship, quality assurance, relevance to sustainable development, including the challenge of climate change, leveraging on ICT and Open Education Resources and International collaboration in the Nigerian University System are issues on the front burner.â€? The conference could not have come at a more auspicious time considering the crises of conďŹ dence which have rocked our educational system. The National Bureau of Statistics (NBS) had last June declared that about 29 million Nigerians are unemployed. In 2011, the National Planning Commission (NPC) put the unemployment rate THE CURRICULA SYSTEM for holders of ďŹ rst OF OUR UNIVERSITIES degree at 24.6 per cent, HAVE REMAINED master’s degree at THEORETICAL, STAGNANT, 13.7 per cent and 17.8 per cent for doctoral LACKING IN CONTENT graduates. AND SKILLS THAT CAN However, even ADDRESS TODAY’S before the vice-chanDEMANDS IN MOST cellors came out with FACETS OF LIFE their self-indicting statement, it is already an established fact that Nigeria’s tertiary education has steadily deteriorated over the years. You only need to engage some of our university graduates in a 10-minute discussion to discern the level of decay. It is worse when they have to do a written test. This, no doubt explains why Nigeria university graduates with ďŹ rst degree are now required to undergo more rigorous and compulsory retraining and examinations before they could be admitted for higher degree courses in several universities in Europe and America. It has always been our position in this newspaper that rather than set up mushroom universities across
Letters to the Editor
the country for political exigency, the federal government should think of pruning the number of the existing ones through some kind of merger and have them run on a collegiate system. We also do not see the sense in granting indiscriminate approval for the establishment of private universities that have now become the latest business in town. The pertinent question remains as to the role our vice -chancellors can play in addressing this worrisome trend. The curricula system of our universities have remained theoretical, stagnant, lacking in content and skills that can address today’s demands in most facets of life. Even the appointment of vice -chancellors has become so politicised that in several cases, traditional rulers, community-related associations and stakeholders, inuence the decision while merit takes the back seat.
M T H I S DAY EDITOR DEPUTY EDITORS ˜ MANAGING DIRECTOR DEPUTY MANAGING DIRECTOR CHAIRMAN EDITORIAL BOARD
EDITOR NATION’S CAPITAL
T H I S DAY N E W S PA P E R S L I M I T E D EDITOR-IN-CHIEF/CHAIRMAN GROUP EXECUTIVE DIRECTORS ˜ ˜
˜ GROUP FINANCE DIRECTOR DIVISIONAL DIRECTORS ˜ ˜ DEPUTY DIVISIONAL DIRECTOR
SNR. ASSOCIATE DIRECTOR ASSOCIATE DIRECTORS ˜ CONTROLLERS ˜ ˜
GENERAL MANAGER
GROUP HEAD DIRECTOR, PRINTING PRODUCTION TO SEND EMAIL: ďŹ rst name.surname@thisdaylive.com
ore worrisome is the selection process of lecturers. The noble idea of retaining best graduating students as graduate assistants has been replaced with favouritism and ‘man-know-man.’ Also, government at all levels has continued to pay lip service to improving the quality of education and research through legislation and funding. Besides, students, lacking in primary and secondary prerequisites for university admission but backed by parents, pay their way through respective courses and come out in â€˜ďŹ‚ying’ colours. The consequence of all these is that we breed “certiďŹ cated illiteratesâ€? that cannot compete with “right-brainersâ€? in the global world of the 21st Century. As if to worsen our predicament, our vice-chancellors gathered recently and agreed to a national cut-off mark of 120 over 400. It is therefore imperative for the AVCNU to understand that lamenting the level of unemployment among our youths and the ‘unemployability’ of our graduates alone will amount to scratching the surface of our educational malaise. Our expectation is that the AVCNU will provoke her members to come up with practical solutions on how to revamp our stunted educational growth. We have, for so long, paid lip service to the problem. This is the time to demonstrate commitment to that cause.
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.
BUHARI’S POLICIES AND THE ARAB AGENDA
I
had this dreadful hunch deep down in the pit of my gut in the run up to the general elections of 2015. My trepidation was heightened by the dark mood prevalent then in the northern part of the country. Generally, the narrative was that, over there in Saudi Arabia, Nigeria’s flag was flying at half-mast because a “Christian unbeliever� in the person of Goodluck Jonathan was president of Nigeria. To the average northerner, if the “pure nobles of the unsullied prophet’s stock� (that is the Saudis) would be miffed with Nigeria, then Nigeria was doomed and the souls of its citizens would suffer equal damnation in the “hereafter.� Strange as it sounds to the refined mind, that melancholic broodings was as real as the fact that the president of Nigerian at that time was called “Goodluck Jonathan.� There was no doubt that Buhari contracted this infectious broodings whilst campaigning for the presidency. People like Femi Fani-Kayode and Gov. Ayodele Fayose did their utmost to bring to the consciousness of Nigerians that Buhari was not as cured of his religious jingoistic inclinations as he was making out during the campaigns. Alas, two years on from 2015 both Mr. Fani-Kayode and Gov. Fayose would readily gush in sheer delight that their prophetic insights were ignored to the perils of Nigerians who are now groaning under all manner of strange and haphazard government policies; especially to
worry us is the de-secularisation of Nigeria in the name of some religio-financial treasury bond (sukkuk, uh? And where was this sukkuk when the world’s poorest people are to be found between latitude 400 north and latitude 400 south, corresponding to the region of the globe populated by Muslims?) Apparently, President Buhari has taken this creedal affair too far; what any sort of religious financing is expected to do is to shore up charities that are set up to reduce poverty amongst the adherents of that religion, not the sort of road-building programmes the government is touting. In the light of this fact, who will blame IPOB and other Christian groups who are demanding separate homelands for their people? President Buhari’s body language could be interpreted in the skewed appointments he has made to “key� positions of government and the cue taken thereof has been one of discrimination and insubordination against the “unbelievers� (the NHIS boss disrespecting the “unbeliever� Prof. Isaac Adewole, his boss; the Comptroller of Customs disrespecting the “unbeliever� Kemi Adeosun, his boss; the NNPC helmsman disrespecting the “unbeliever� Ibe Kachikwu, his boss; the storyline is everywhere one cares to look). In contrast, President Goodluck Jonathan’s administration did not emphasise religious differences because, beginning from his rich cabinet, every ethnic group was represented. It was President Jonathan who
decided that the Sultan of Sokoto should be the permanent Amir Hajj and he backed the Sultan and other northern emirs in their varied endeavours. Now, the Emir of Zaria is being snubbed by President Buhari and Gov. El-Rufai because this emir “adopted� President Jonathan as “one of his sons.� To add salt to injury, it is “unbeliever� soldiers and policemen who are constantly risking all to lead the fight against the Boko Haram terror group because it is “haram� for “believers and brothers� to face off against one another in battle (ISIS would not produce graphic, gruesome videos of ambushes if they were sure they were fighting their fellow “believer� soldiers). Strange administration, this government, uh? And now, this revelation by the World Bank that Nigeria’s president sees a great chasm between a “Muslim North� and a “Christian South� and thus World Bank intervention projects should go to this “Muslim North� is not fair to the South because Islamic reactionaries in the North (Boko Haram specifically and Shariaphile governors generally) should not have arrested development in the North in the first place by wanton physical destructions and by stifling personal freedoms in deciding what sort of businesses individuals choose to pursue to better their lots. Sunday Adole Jonah, Department of Physics, Federal University of Technology, Minna
16
T H I S D AY FRIDAY OCTOBER 20, 2017
T H I S D AY ˾ FRIDAY, OCTOBER 20, 2017
17
Group Politics Editor Tobi Soniyi Email tobi.soniyi@thisdaylive.com 08033146139 SMS ONLY
POLITICS A N A LY S I S
The Symbolism of Chidoka’s Sprint in Anambra Race For historic reasons, the governorship candidate of the United Progressives Party, Osita Chidoka launched his campaign in Amorka, a sleepy village in Uli, Ihiala Local Government Area of Anambra State, home to the Uli airstrip that served as the link between Biafra and the outside world during the civil war. David-Chyddy Eleke was there and now reports
T
wo weeks ago, Chief Osita Chidoka, the governorship candidate of the United Progressives Party, (UPP) flagged of his campaigns to mark the beginning of his journey towards the Anambra government house. The flag off was a symbolic one considering the choice of Amorka, a small sleepy village in Uli community, Ihiala local government area as the venue of the event. At first, many wondered why he chose Amorka, a border town in Anambra, which is even more Imo than it is Anambra. Every other party would either consider Awka, the Anambra State capital which houses the government house, where the candidate seeks to take over. Others may consider the commercial city of Onitsha because of the large population of people in the city, especially as politics is said to be a game of number. But Chidoka would have none of these. If he had also considered Nnewi, the industrial hub of Anambra State and the entire Igboland, such move would still have been right especially as Nnewi has come to be a depiction of the enterprising and entrepreneurial spirit of the Anambra man, nay Igboman. But for Chidoka, a brainy young man to choose a remote village with less population, where he would have to incur more expenses transporting his supporters to the event, may look somewhat unwise. For this reporter who was invited to provide media coverage for the event, I was almost sure it was going to witness a low turn out, and surely others must have reached a similar conclusion. This is because Chidoka hails from Obosi in Idemili North, and equally has the bulk of his followers from there. But Obosi to Ihiala is still a journey of about two hours. For his supporters who would be coming from Awka, the capital city where Chidoka has equally won the heart of a great number of youths, the distance is nothing short of three hours too, especially considering the state of the roads. Onitsha may prove the nearest to Ihiala, but the state of the road leading to there may also be a source of concern, so why exactly did Chidoka settle for Amorka. The first reality that hit this reporter on arriving Amorka was the large number of people that had assembled at the Town Secondary School’s field for the rally. Not only was a huge crowd gathered, but more vehicles were still conveying people to the arena, and most fascinating was that everyone in the field adorned Chidoka’s branded tshirts. By noon when the candidate arrived the rally ground with a long entourage, there was not a standing space left in the field, as the crowd spilled across to the other side of the road. Many have always argued that Chidoka is one of the best brains among those running for the governorship seat of the state. As the Corp Marshal of the Federal Road Safety Commission, he edged his name in stone, such that a commentator once said that Chidoka, even after his exit from the commission, remained to it what Late Prof Dora Akunyili was to the National Agency for Food and Drug Regulation and Control, (NAFDAC), where her name remained synonymous with the agency long after she had left. When he was eventually called up to the
Chidoka raises the UPP flag
podium, it was with high hope that all in attendance listened, and he did not disappoint. Chidoka, who was first handed the flag of the UPP, with the symbolic Isi agu (the head of the tiger), which is the symbol of the party, and the symbol of strength in Igboland before he was handed the microphone to address the people. Holding the Isi agu flag in his right hand, high above for all to see from the crowd, the microphone in his left Chidoka enthused; ‘today, the journey of the tiger begins.’ The remark was welcomed with a huge ovation before he went further to state why the rally was moved to Amorka. Chidoka, who was elated at the turn out told his supporters that he opted for Amorka because it was a historic town in Igbo land, having been home to Uli Airstrip where relief materials had reached Biafra land during the civil war. He said every Igbo man who survived hunger during the civil war owed his live to Uli Airstrip from where relief materials were brought down to the area. He described the
This ground is historic by its significant position as the last standing territory at a great time in the history of a great people and their unconquered resilience in the face of all odds.
town as Biafra’s window to the world and hope for survival. He said, “We are gathered here today in the historic city of Amorka to launch a governorship campaign. Many people may be wondering why we chose this ground for this launch. This ground is historic by its significant position as the last standing territory at a great time in the history of a great people and their unconquered resilience in the face of all odds. “This is the home of the famous Uli Airport - an airport, which at some historic point, was the only link between Biafra land and the rest of the world. It remains a loud testimony and tribute to the Igbo ingenuity, innovation and the resilience for which we are known all over the world. Uli Airport remains one of our finest hours when in the midst of bombardments and gunfire; of injury, pain and death; we held forth and sustained an airport that was our support and our access to the whole world even in the midst of battle. Today, we stand to pay tribute to all those who died in the quest to build a nation out of the regions of Nigeria; we pay tribute to their courage, their valour and audacity of identity and self-expression. “As we launch our campaign, we lift the “isi agu”(tiger head symbol of UPP), the very Igbo symbol of our courage, pride and undying consciousness as well as our composure and resilience as a people even in the face of adversity. It is therefore symbolic that the isi agu is also the emblem of our great party, the United Progressive Party (UPP), which today is the political vehicle for our new consciousness and engagement as a people in Nigeria and which also has in its manifesto, the quest and right to self-determination.”
The event was also attended by Chief Sylvester Ojukwu, the first son of former Biafran leader, late Odumegwu Ojukwu who concurred with Chidoka’s assertions, saying that he was in Amorka because the town was a significant town which helped Igbos to survive the civil war of 1967. He said his father left Nigeria towards the end of the war through Uli Airstrip, which was located at Amorka, with the message that he was leaving to bring back peace to Igbo land, and that he was happy that peace was at last coming back to Igbo land through the same Amorka, this time in Chidoka and not Ojukwu. He said, “I left everything I had to do to come here because of the significance of Amorka to Igbo people. My father left Nigeria through Uli Airstrip, here in Amorka, and promised to bring back peace on his return. Amorka gave my father peace and happiness, today you are giving Anambra peace and happiness in the form of Chidoka.” For the National Chairman of the party, Chief Chekwas Okorie who was also at the flagging off ceremony tackled the All Progressives Congress (APC) National Chairman, Chief Odigie Oyegun over his recent comment that the only way Igbos could run away from marginalisation was to join the APC. He said, “Now we know why they are marginalising us. But let me tell you, any Igbo man who was brought up properly would not vote for APC. The only way we can ensure we defeat them is to make sure that no part of Igbo land fall to APC. Our party would continue to talk about marginalisation. We will continue to talk about referendum and Biafra. We will not be intimidated. We are the only party that has referendum in our party manifesto.” UPP has, since after the endorsement of the party by a faction of the pro-Biafra group, Customary Government of the Indigenous People of Biafra, CG-IPOB, come to champion the cause of the Igbos. Even after the withdrawal of the group from the party after its preferred aspirant, Chudi Ofodile loss the the primary election, the party has continued to champion the cause of the Igbo man, refusing to back down on its agitation, over marginalization. It was just a stroke of luck for UPP that its delegates settled for Chidoka, a young man who also has a passion for the quest for Biafra. Chidoka it was who as a result of his passion for the Biafra and disdain for the perceived marginalization of the people of the south east helped in perfecting the bail conditions for the leader of IPOB, Nnamdi Kanu in May this year. Though many have argued that Chidoka was only playing the Biafra card to curry favour from both the IPOB and the average Anambra people who feel marginalized by the federal government, only time will tell if he truly means all that he says. If he wins the election, it would be because the people fell for his message of marginalization, and he will be expected to meet their demands. If he losses, it will not also be a reason to dump his belief as the people will still judge him in subsequent elections by his action after now. But what is more important to Chidoka now is that the journey of the tiger has begun, and to ensure that the journey ends at the government house.
T H I S D AY ˾ FRIDAY, OCTOBER 20, 2017
18
POLITICS
Can EFCC Investigate States? The arrest and release of two top officials of the Ekiti State government by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission has again reignited the controversy over the powers of the anti-graft agency to investigate states, writes Davidson Iriekpen
A
fter fourteen days in detention, the Ekiti State Commissioner for Finance, Mr Toyin Ojo and the Accountant General, Mrs. Yemisi Owolabi, were last week released by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC). The two officials while narrating their ordeals in the hands of operatives of the anti-graft agency to journalists, said they were practically begged to leave detention when the agency found out that they had committed no offence to warrant their arrest in the first instance. They added that they could not be charged to court because the petition written against them lacked substance. The duo said the petition upon which they were arrested, was written by someone whose name was not mentioned, claiming that the state mismanaged the Paris Club debts refunds and bailouts allocated to it by the federal government. They said the petition lacked substantive evidence and could not be used to prosecute them. The officials insisted that the petition was written basically to tarnish the government of Ayodele Fayose, for no just cause. Speaking at a reception organised for them by Fayose, Ojo said: “The EFCC found it difficult to prosecute us because they lacked evidence. Fayose by his conduct boxed EFCC to a corner, because you needed not fear when you committed no crime. By our arrests, it was clear that EFCC has become an instrument of oppression. Some states took more than the bailout taken by Ekiti but nothing was done, what is their interest in Ekiti? They asked us to sign so that we can leave the detention but we refused. They started begging us before we left. The Speaker of the Ekiti State House of Assembly, Hon. Kola Oluwawole, described EFCC as a meddlesome interloper, saying Sections126 and 127 of the 1999 Constitution empowered the assembly to perform oversight functions on state finances and not the statutory duty of the agency. He warned the commission to allow the assembly to do its duty. The governor described EFCC as a senseless organisation, saying: “If they are not senseless, they should have known that the man who wrote the petition had been sacked because he didn’t deserve to be called a civil servant. The arrest was orchestrated by Ekiti indigenes in collaboration with the EFCC. I will never go and beg EFCC, it will rather beg me. I won’t negotiate anything because I am not afraid of them. There was a subsisting court order that barred them from arresting any official of this state, but they breached the law. By the grace of God, I will restructure the EFCC when I become the president of this nation. I will reorganise EFCC and make it looks responsible. They detained me in 2008, but I won them in court , because the most high God was on my side. They said the NNPC Group Managing Director awarded $25billion contracts illegally, the EFCC did nothing. Even the Presidency has been the one defending him now. What is their interest in Ekiti? Whose interest is EFCC protecting?” The same day that Fayose declared for the 2019 presidential election in Abuja, was the day the anti-graft agency arrested the state’s officials. EFCC Head of Media and Information, Wilson Uwujaren said the arrest was effected due to the refusal of the officials to honour EFCC’s invitation. He said: “Ekiti State Commissioner for Finance and the Accountant General are currently in the custody of the EFCC. They were picked up following their refusal to honour previous invitations for interrogation in relation to pending investigation on the misuse of bail out funds by the Fayose
Fayose under EFCC attack
administration.” Fayose has had a running battle with the EFCC. The commission had earlier frozen his account. But undaunted, Fayose filed a suit against the commission at the court and won. Appeal Court also rejected EFCC’s appeal. Many analysts contend that while the EFCC knows the position of the law, its arrest of the two officials was to force them to implicate the governor against whom it has been looking for evidence. They wondered if the Ekiti State was the only state where bailout funds and Paris Club refund were allegedly misapplied. They also wondered why officials of the All Progressives Congress (APC) states such as Osun and Benue where same allegations have been raging were not arrested. However, the arrest of the two top officials of the state government has against raised the question on whether the anti-graft commission has the powers to investigate the states. Does EFCC have the power to probe state? The arrest of the two top officials of the Ekiti State government when Fayose declared for the 2019 presidency, was reminiscent of the arrest of some officials of the Rivers State
By the combined provisions of sections 128 and 129 of the 1999 Constitution, it is the house of assembly of a state that is vested with the power to superintend or police all funds of the state.
Government in 2006 when the then Governor Peter Odili declared for the 2007 presidential election. Based on a frivolous petition aimed at stopping the ambition of Odili who was clearly the frontrunner, the then EFCC Chairman, Nuhu Ribadu, swooped on the state, arresting the Commissioner for Finance and other top officials. The petition was used to cajole Odili to withdraw for the late President Umaru Musa Yar’Adua. As soon as the former governor withdrew from the presidential race, his officials were released. Before then, the state government had instituted a suit against the EFCC to challenge its powers to investigate the state instead of the state. The cased produced two subsisting judgments of the High Court of Rivers State and the Federal High Court that bar the anti-graft agency from investigating the finances of the state. The first judgment was at the High Court of Rivers State in suit number PHC/114/2007: Attorney-General of Rivers State vs the Speaker of Rivers State House of Assembly and 36 others. The judgment which was delivered by Justice Peter Agumagu on February 16, 2007, enunciated the following principles of law, which till date has not been set-aside by any appellate court. The principles of law are: By the combined effects of section 125 subsections (2), (5) and (6) of the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria 1999 (the 1999 Constitution), it is the House of Assembly of a state, Rivers State inclusive, that has the final say on matters pertaining to the funds of the state as laid before it by the Auditor-General’s audit report of all public accounts and the accountant-general’s financial statements and published annual accounts. By the judgment of Justice Agumagu, these powers are exercised independently without
the direction, dictation, control or manipulation of any other authority or person. He said the constitution did not vest on investigating bodies such as the EFCC or the police or law officers like the Attorney-General of the Federation any powers to direct or control the House of Assembly of a state in the performance of its aforementioned function of superintending over the funds of a state. Neither do these bodies have any constitutional powers to direct how the Accountant-General or the Auditor General of a state performs their respective functions. Agumagu concluded that the EFCC has no business with how the state spends its finances until the state assembly performs its duties and invites the anti-graft agency to investigate a crime pursuant to sections 6 and 7 of the EFCC Act of 2004. “By the combined provisions of sections 128 and 129 of the 1999 Constitution, it is the house of assembly of a state that is vested with the power to superintend or police all funds of the state and ‘to expose corruption and waste in the management of public and consolidated revenue funds of a state.’ The powers of the House of Assembly contained in section 128 of the 1999 Constitution are exclusively reserved for them. “The federal government or any of its agencies does not share this power with the House of Assembly. Neither the police, nor the EFCC is constitutionally empowered to share power with the House of Assembly. It will amount to an unconstitutional act for the EFCC or the ICPC to usurp this power of the House of Assembly. The EFCC has no constitutional power and control over public and consolidated revenue funds of Rivers State, and to that extent is not entitled to audit its accounts or tamper with its bank statements and records.” When the EFCC rejected the judgment because it was delivered by a state high court, the case was again filed at the Federal High Court where the court in line with the tenor of the judgment of the high court mentioned above made specific injunctive orders in its judgment delivered on March 20, 2007, restraining the EFCC (the 1st defendant in the said suit) from specific acts. The federal court made the following peremptory orders: “(a) An order of injunction restraining the 1st defendant by itself or by its servants or agents or in any manner howsoever from purporting to investigate or inquire into the appropriation, disbursing, administering, or management of the funds of Rivers State is hereby made. “(b) An order of injunction restraining the 1st defendant (EFCC) by itself or by its servants or agents or in any manner howsoever from disseminating, publishing or circulating to any government, government agency, the news media or members of the public or in any manner at all, he (sic) purported or findings in respect of any investigation or inquiry into the appropriation, disbursing, administering or management of the funds of Rivers State or putting the said report or finding to any use whatsoever is hereby made.” It is against this background that many analysts feel that the EFCC has not changed from its tactics. as one of the analysts put it, “The story raises fundamental questions about the moral horror of an anti-graft agency that is now openly partisan in all its intentions and actions. There is a universal concern that the EFCC is playing an extremely corrosive role in the current political dispensation. Rather than fight corruption in a professional and dispassionate manner, the EFCC behaves like an integral organ of the APC. An anti-graft commission that targets only the opposition politicians and critics of the failed policies of the APC government is a national embarrassment.”
19
T H I S D AY ˾ ˜ Ͱͮ˜ Ͱͮͯ͵
BUSINESSWORLD R A T E S NIBOR OVERNIGHT 1-MONTH
A S
A T
NIBOR 15.3333% 17.0332%
3-MONTH 6-MONTH
20.1621% 23.1621%
M A R C H 9 , NITTY 1-MONTH 2-MONTH
Group Business Editor Chika Amanze-Nwachuku Email chika.amanzenwachukwu@thisdaylive.com 08033294157
2 0 1 7
13.0970% 14.0684%
3-MONTH 6-MONTH
15.7898% 19.6644%
EXCHANGE RATE N305.50//1US DOLLAR* ̩
Quick Takes Emadeb Opens Filling Station in Lagos
PROMOTING AIR TRANSPORT
L-R: Chief Executive Officer(CEO), EAN Hangar; Dr. Harold Demuren, CEO, Nigerian Travels Mart(NTM) , Simon Tumba; Chairman, Aso Savings & Loans Plc, Ali Mohammed Magashi; CEO, RTC Advisory Services Limited, Mr. Opeyemi Agbaje, at the NTM 2017 colloquium held in Lagos…recently
Experts: Why Nigerian Banks Cannot Fund Aviation Sector Chinedu Eze Aviation experts have said that one of the factors that stifle the growth of the aviation industry in Nigeria is the failure of the banking sector to extend special lending facilities to the aviation sector. The experts noted that investment in air transport comes with little returns on investment but need huge capital outlay. They explained that therefore to fund such business, banks must adopt a long term, single digit interest loans that would support the industry. The industry stakeholders, who met recently in Lagos, noted that lack of such long term funds with low interest rates is impeding the growth of the industry, especially the airline sub-sector. Former Director General of the Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA) and the
AVIATION founder of Evergreen Apple Hangar, Lagos, Dr. Harold Demuren, said that the present interest regime of banks make it difficult for Nigerian airlines to borrow money and this has affected the acquisition and leasing of commercial aircraft in Nigeria. “The present interest rate regime in Nigeria is not good for aviation. Take the 20 something per cent interest, you can’t do any business with that. So we need to do something about that. And it is very interesting for me when I learnt about zero interest on money (Sukuk), that’s a good one. I think the other people should copy it, we don’t need to quarrel, and we should also do our own, form another bank that would be zero interest, at least single digit interest. Then when you do that
the big banks will lower their interest rate and that is good for Nigeria and SME companies can progress. I think that is what we should do,” Demuren said. Demuren added that because there is poor corporate governance it is difficult for banks to support the airlines with huge funds, noting that there is poor legal system and lack of integrity in the management of some of the airlines. A corporate banker from First Bank of Nigeria Limited, Saro Abdulrasheed said banks are reluctant to extend huge credit exposure to the aviation industry because they are yet to understand the sector very well. He noted that the banks are yet to know how the industry works and until the banks personnel are trained to understand the aviation sector, banks may not be able to fund huge investments in the sector. He said that many banks are
yet to know how the industry operates, especially the value of the equipment (the aircraft) and that explained why the past funding of aircraft for airlines were not particularly successful, which led to liquidation and the interference of Asset Management Corporation of Nigeria (AMCON), which today has absorbed the liabilities of these airlines. Abdulrasheed also remarked that banks may not be able to provide the credit support for airlines to acquire new aircraft because of the huge finance involved and noted that the banks would rather lose money by using it to train its staff to understand the sector than precarious exposure of their funds to the capital intensive aircraft acquisition. The experts also spoke about the challenges airlines Continued on page 20
$3.8 Billion Egina FPSO Vessel to Arrive Nigeria Q1 2018 Eromosele Abiodun The technical partner of the Lagos Deep Offshore Logistics Base (LADOL), in the building of $3.8 billion Egina oil production vessel at LADOL’s Free Zone, Samsung Heavy Industry (SHI), has said that the hull of the Floating Production Storage and Offloading (FPSO) being built in Korea, is expected to arrive in Lagos in the first quarter of next year. LADOL is currently playing host to the fabrication of a $3.8 billion oil and gas logistics service facility–FPSO rig, otherwise called the Egina project. The project, which has been described as first-of-its-kind in the Sub-Sahara Africa, is being
MARITIME built for Total Oil Exploration and Production Company, with LADOL acting as the local content partner. Giving an update on the project when a team from the Nigeria Immigration Service (NIS) led by Chapp Jumbo, comptroller Free Zone Enterprises of NIS and General Manager, Operations, Private Zones of the Nigeria Export Processing Zones Authority (NEPZA), Muazu Muhammadhadi Ruma, visited LADOL, Egina Project Manager for SHI, Frank Ejeze, said that there is still ongoing work on the vessel in Korea, which made it impossible for the FPSO to
arrive third quarter of 2017 as earlier proposed. According to him, the facility was built by Nigerians under the supervision of Koreans as about 1200 Nigerians and 150 foreigners, had worked on the project especially at peak period. The project manager further stated that work at the integration site in LADOL has neared completion. The visiting team was conducted round the facility by Executive Director of LADOL, Jide Jadesimi. An official of NIS who spoke to THISDAY during the tour, said the team was very impressed with the things on ground. He said that LADOL Free Zone has what it will take to
turn Nigeria’s economy around. The official told THISDAY that the Free Zone has the potential to attract foreign direct investment (FDI) and earn foreign exchange for the country. “Under Free Zone arrangement, companies are given waivers on expatriate quota, which is part of the incentives that Free Zones offer. Therefore, expatriates working in Free Zones don’t require quota in order to ease off bureaucratic bottlenecks and cut down red tape in their operations. However, the companies bringing them must have an operating license issued by NEPZA,” he stated. Continued on page 20
One year after Emadeb Energy Services Limited inaugurated a new mega petrol service station in Abuja, the company will next week inaugurate its flagship mega retail outlet located on Apapa - Oshodi Expressway in Lagos.The construction of this state- of -the -art facility is in continuation of the expansion strategy embarked upon by the company in 2015 to ensure a good and strategic spread of its retail outlets in the commercial capital of the country. The mega station is a 270,000 litre- capacity outlet with 16 petrol nozzles and two nozzles for kerosene and diesel. Also included in the state-ofthe-art mega station are a lube bay, minimart and a POS terminal as an alternative means of payment for customers.The Group Managing Director of the company, Mr. Adebowale Olujimi said in a statement that the investment was in fulfillment of the company’s commitment to proactively meet customers’ needs and surpassing their expectations through specialised and differentiated products and services. Olujimi further stated that the new station would be commissioned onTuesday next week.He noted that Emadeb Energy is committed to remaining steadfast to the business at hand, while shaping a vision for the future.
Medview Airlifts 365,000 Pilgrims
Nigeria’s major carrier, Med-View Airline has announced that it has airlifted over 365,000 pilgrims since the commencement of its annual hajj operation 10 years ago. Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer (CEO), Alhaji Muneer Bankole disclosed this at a ceremony to decorate three of its pilots as aircraft captains while another was decorated as a first flight officer. Those decorated were Capt. Olatunbosun Buraimah, Capt. Ayub Kambinda, Capt. Jika Keghtor and Mr. Eguare Oziegbe who was decorated as a first flight officer. Bankole said apart from airlifting pilgrims in all zones of the country, the airline has also spread its wings to other neighbouring African countries including Guinea Bissau, among others. “Hajj is one of our major windows as we have recorded a huge success in that aspect of exercise. When we started in 2006, majority did not believe in us, but we believed we would make it and today, we are one of the major players in that aspect of exercise,” he said. He said the decoration of the pilots was another success story for the airline. “Since we started flight operations, we have developed so many technical professionals and some of them are aircraft captains today. These crops of professionals that we are honouring today have displayed high level of professionalism in the discharge of their duties. “As a Nigerian airline, we will continue to develop local capacity for the industry. In our own little way, we want to reduce joblessness among technical personnel in the industry and that we will do. I congratulate those who we are decorating today, but I can only ask them not to relent in their efforts at promoting safe civil aviation industry for Nigeria,” Bankole added.
Qatar, USAID Combat Wildlife Trafficking
Qatar Airways has joined a select group of private sector, nongovernment organisations and government agencies in a concerted response to combat wildlife crime across transportation networks. TheairlinesaiditisnowapartnerintheUSAIDReducingOpportunities forUnlawfulTransportofEndangeredSpecies(ROUTES)Partnership and has increased its commitment as a signatory to the United for Wildlife Transport Taskforce Buckingham Palace Declaration to protect endangered species from illegal trade and transportation. Alongside ROUTES, Qatar Airways said it would help raise awareness and build capacity with Qatar Airways staff and strengthen solutions to help stop the trafficking of wildlife. Qatar Airways Group Chief Executive, Mr. Akbar Al Baker, said: “We have a prominent position in establishing industry solutions to global threats, such as the illegal transportation of endangered wildlife. Qatar Airways is proud to stand with other aviation industry leaders to state that we have zero tolerance for this criminal activity. As a result, we have devoted resources to raise awareness to not only eliminate wildlife trafficking, but to protect these creatures that we value.” ROUTES Partnership Chair, Ms. Michelle Owen, said: “We are thrilled that Qatar Airways is joining ROUTES and taking an increased leadership role against wildlife trafficking within the aviation sector.
“Developing the blue economy is paramount across the globe now, and the public and private sector have to collaborate to sustainably harness the potentials of our maritime sector for the benefit of the Nigerian economy especially as the Federal Government continues the economic diversification drive” Director General of the Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency (NIMASA)
Dr.Dakuku Peterside
20
T H I S D AY Ëž Ëœ Í°ÍŽËœ Í°ÍŽÍŻÍľ
BUSINESSWORLD EXPERTS: WHY NIGERIAN BANKS CANNOT FUND AVIATION SECTOR face, which made them to lose huge revenues, noting that airlines may fail to repay loans or become bankrupt due to other factors such as poor and inadequate infrastructure, which curtail their operations and made them to lose money. Former Managing Director of Virgin Nigeria Airways and the CEO of Ropeways Transport Limited, Captain Dapo Olumide, said that due to lack of Category 3 Instrument Landing System (ILS) at major airports, airlines lose huge amount of revenues from November every year when the Harmattan sets in and disrupts flights at different airports in the country. Such losses, he said, could hamper the airlines from servicing their loans and injure their reputation, which could forestall their ability to secure credit facility for their operations. $3.8 BILLION EGINA FPSO VESSEL TO ARRIVE NIGERIA Q1 2018 On the likely support NIS offers FTZ, the comptroller said that the Immigration has desk officers situated at every Free Zone, to attend to every need of the operators and synergise with the enterprises in the zone to facilitate the issuance of their facilities. However, the immigration official advised the management of LADOL to always work in harmony with its desk officers in order to reconcile any challenges facing their operations because, ‘our officers are always willing to provide solution at anytime’. On his part, Ruma of NEPZA said that the project, which started years back, has put the promoters through several challenges, but it got to the stage it is today due to the level of commitment the promoters have towards the completion of the project. “This project is being developed in Nigeria by Nigerians and for Nigerians. Therefore, we at NEPZA have to accord them our full support because it is a platform for FDI and it provides great opportunity for the training of Nigerian engineers because we need the knowledge transfer this facility offers,� he said.
Group Business Editor
Ă’Ă“Ă•Ă‹ Ă—Ă‹Ă˜Ă¤Ă?Ě‹ ĂĄĂ‹Ă?Ă’Ă&#x;Ă•Ă&#x; AgriBusiness/Industry Editor
ĂœĂ&#x;Ă?Ă™Ă? Ă?Ă‹Ă‘Ă“Ă? 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) Reporters
Ă&#x;Ă—Ă? Ă•Ă?Ă‘Ă’Ă? Ě™ Ă™Ă˜Ă?ĂŁ Ă‹ĂœĂ•Ă?Þ̚ Ă™Ă?Ă‹ Ă–Ă?Ă•Ă’Ă&#x;ÙÑÓĂ? Ě™ ËÚÓÞËÖ Ă‹ĂœĂ•Ă?Þ̚
NEWS
NAMA Boss Stresses Importance of Human Factor in Air Safety Chinedu Eze The Managing Director of the Nigerian Airspace Management Agency (NAMA) Capt. Fola Akinkuotu has described the role of human factor in Air Traffic Management safety as critical in the process of hazard identification and safety risk management. Akinkuotu, who was a guest speaker and panelist at the just-concluded Civil Air Navigation Services Organisation (CANSO) Africa Conference and Safety Seminar which held in Marrakesh, Morocco listed the human factors to include environmental, organisational and job factors as well as individual characteristics, saying that all these have direct impact on the individual’s behavior and could affect health and safety. Delivering a paper at the event with the title: ‘Human Factor and Safety’, Akinkuotu who was represented by the Legal Adviser of the agency, Mrs. Anastasia Gbem, argued that the introduction of technology does not primarily aim at improving safety but “satisfying the demands for the increase in service delivery while maintaining existing margins of safety, stressing that “while the introduction of technology is an inevitable
consequence of the needs of any mass production activity, its relevance in the management of safety cannot be overlooked.� He averred that in air traffic management(ATM), any technological advances deployed to improve the system capacity, if not properly interfaced
through adequate training and orientation would lead to operational error, and that “while these technologies are introduced to increase ATM capacities, the consequences of operational error caused by poor interface between systems and air traffic control officers
outweighs the primary objective of mass production with the ultimate safety penalties.� Akinkuotu therefore charged air navigation service providers (ANSPs) in Africa to “continuously review work processes and procedures to further tighten the noose on
vulnerability of mismatches in the interfaces between people and technology in order to effectively trap operational errors,� even as he tasked the executive leadership team to create a “zero-tolerance safety culture� to be embraced by all levels of the organisation.
WE HAVE A DEAL
L-R: Managing Director, Mojec International Ltd, Ms. Chantelle Abdul; Chief Finanacial OďŹƒcer, Ikeja Electric ( IE), Mrs. Olubunmi Olukoju; and Chief Technical Coordinator, IE, Mr. Sunday Oyewole, at the media brieďŹ ng on the oďŹƒcial signing of Memorandum of Understanding between Mojec and IE for the supply of distribution transformer (DT) meters in Lagos... recently ETOP UKUTT
AfDB: Africa Expends $35bn Annually on Food Imports Eromosele Abiodun The President of African Development Bank (AfDB), Dr Akinwumi Adesina, has stated that Africa spends $35 billion annually on food imports. He made this known while delivering his Norman Borlaug Lecture at Iowa State University, titled: “Betting on Africa to Feed the World,� in Des Monies, Iowa in the United States. Specifically, he said it is unacceptable by his estimates, if the current trend continues stressing that Africa is estimated to spend $110 billion by 2030 on food imports. Adesina therefore called for land tax for unused agricultural
land, to provide incentives for faster commercialisation of agriculture and unlocking its potential in Africa. The AfDB boss said Africa holds the key for feeding nine billion people by 2050, adding that more than ever before, the world must help Africa to rapidly modernise its agriculture and unlock its full potential. According to Adesina, the challenge of addressing global food security is the greatest in Africa. He said that close to 300 million people were malnourished on the continent due to this challenge. Africa, he added, is the only region of the world where its proportion of the population
that is food insecure is on the increase. He added, “There is therefore absolutely no reason for Africa to be a food importing region. Africa has huge potential in agriculture, but, as Dr. Borlaug used to say, nobody eats potential. Unlocking that potential, we must start with the Savannah of Africa which covers mind boggling 600 million hectares of which 400 million hectares are cultivable. “Africa sits on 65 per cent of the uncultivated arable land left in the world, so what Africa does with agriculture will determine the future of food in the world. African farmers need more than a helping hand. They need a policy lift.�
Adesina said that Africa was the last frontier for the late Borlaug, the Founder of the World Food Prize, who was awarded the Nobel Peace Prize in 1970 for a lifetime of work to feed a hungry world. He said that in spite of the progress globally in food production including Africa, Latin America and Asia, the world still had 700 million people languishing in extreme poverty. He said: “This includes 800 million with chronic hunger, two billion people with micronutrient deficiency and 150 million children under five years of age that are suffering from stunting. The challenge of feeding the world is immense, with need for rapid
increases in global food, feed and biofuel production to feed a global population of nine billion people by 2050. If Dr. Borlaug alone can feed one billion people, we definitely can feed 800 million people globally and we definitely can feed 300 million Africans.� Adesina said that to transform agriculture, Africa needs to make a decision to develop new agrarian systems, one that combines smallholder farmers with a new dynamic generation of medium and large commercial farmers. He advocated for land tenure systems that made it easier to get access to land and for smallholder farmers and their communities to have secure land rights.
ICA President Advocates Quick Payment Policy for MSMEs Eromosele Abiodun The President of the Institute for Credit Administration (ICA) of Nigeria, Dr. Adetunji Oyebanji, has called for a deliberate policy thrust to ensure quick payment of confirmed invoices from micro, small and medium enterprises (MSMEs). In a welcome address at the institute’s annual mandatory professional development credit management conference, Oyebanji who is also the Chairman and Managing Director of Mobil Nigeria Plc, noted that subjecting MSMEs to long delays in making payments to them could be injurious to their businesses
as the sector is fragile, having no easy access to fund due to lack of collateral. He appealed to government at all levels and big companies to initiate policies that could lift up SMEs to critical business activities, stressing that such policy trust is the key to bolstering business activities in the economy. “We call on conglomerates and blue chips in Nigeria to design policies that ensure quick payment of confirmed invoices from small and medium enterprises. Subjecting them to long delays in making payments to them could be injurious to their businesses as SMEs are fragile, having
no easy access to fund due to lack of collateral. While declaring open the institute’s “National Pay Your Bill Campaign,� Oyebanji stated that the campaign would be directed at those indebted to one another, institutional, national or international debt obligations to make good their debt obligations or promises. “We enjoin all stakeholders to lend their voices to this clarion call. The month of April every year is taken by our institute as “National Pay Your Bill Month,� Oyebanji said. Throwing more light on the initiative, ICA Registrar
and Chief Executive Officer, Professor Chris Analo, said: “What this means is that everybody will be reminded that you are indebted to one person, business to business, individual to individual, government to corporate organisation and corporate organizations to government, government to government. “It is a symbolic activity reminding everyone that you are obligated to pay something, money, credit, invoice, etc which you are owing the next person. It could be consumer credit; it could be a worker indebted to a land lord or land lady, or mama put, whoever is indebted to somebody else.
“And the way I am looking at it, that month will produce billions of money paid back to the rightful owners. It may not be all you are indebted to but you make conscious effort to pay something that day,� Analo said. The theme of the conference lecture which is “Using Credit to Tame CorruptionRole of Credit Managers,� brought together professional credit managers and experts from different sectors of the economy in a healthy dialogue on how to tame corruption by enthroning credit system in place of cash system which participants said breeds corruption.
T H I S D AY Ëž Ëœ Í°ÍŽËœ Í°ÍŽÍŻÍľ
21
BUSINESSWORLD
NEWS
Anchor Insurance Records 11% Growth in Profit Okon Bassey in Uyo Akwa Ibom State Government own Anchor Insurance Company Limited has recorded increased profit from N205 million in 2015 to N228 million in the year ended December 2016. The Chairman, Board of Directors of the company, Dr. Elijah Akpan disclosed this in Uyo at the 27th annual general meeting (AGM). Akpan attributed the 11 per cent growth in profit after tax to improved efficiency in operations of the company and introduction of unique and acceptable insurance products backed with cutting-edge innovative technology. The insurance company declared a dividend payment of 3.6 kobo per share for the 2016 insurance year, hinting that the shareholders approved the dividend payment of 3.6kobo per
share following the impressive performance of the company which is 12 per cent growth in dividend pay-out. He added that the firm investment and other incomes grew by 16 per cent from N182million in 2015 to N212million in 2016, as a result of shrew investment operations and decisions. He said: “The company incurred claims of over N371million while the underwriting result at the end of the year amounted to N1.013billion compared to approximated N965million earned during the year ended December 2015 which amounted to 5.04 per cent in 2016�.v“The company total asset increased in 2016 by 6.5 per cent with an approximated total of 5.8billion compared to N5.4billion recorded in 2015 while its shareholders fund grew from N4.5 billion in 2015 to N4.7 billion in the
year 2016 thus showing a 5.03 growth.� Akpan noted that “it is heart-warming that despite the hash challenges in the global and domestic environments, the company recorded growth in some key indices in the year ended December 31, 2016. The company, he said is implementing its plans to improve capital base through available instruments in the market with introduction of tailored-made insurance products, retail and micro insurance, property investment and Leasing. “The recent expansion in the board composition was taking with the strategic plan to expanding opportunities in the public sector insurance. We shall continue to invest in infrastructure, create an enabling environment for our staff with adequate motivation�, he declared.
Leadway Assurance Partners ART X Lagos on Art Fair Leadway Assurance Limited, is partnering ART X Lagos in sponsoring the forth coming second edition of the ART X Lagos Art Fair which has been designed to bring together lovers of arts from across West Africa. The exhibition, which is set to hold from Friday, November 3 to Sunday, November 5, 2017 in Lagos, will feature over 60 artists from 14 countries across Africa and the Diaspora. Speaking on the exhibition, the Executive Director, Leadway Assurance Ms. Adetola Adegbayi, said Leadway’s partnership with Art X Lagos, underscores the organisation’s commitment to promoting the creative energy of African artists and strengthening the growth of the Art industry in general,v Adegbayi, at the unveiling of the participating exhibitors, artists and sponsors for the Art X 2017, said the three-day event will feature artists from Africa and the Diaspora, who are keen to display their creativity and
works. According to her, the event, will also feature specially curated projects, a programme of talks, the ART X Prize, and a music show – ART X Live! She said the opening event, which will hold November 3, will feature on invitation, only VIP Preview, followed by the art fair which will be open to the public from Saturday 4th to Sunday 5th of November 2017. She said Leadway is committed to promoting art and culture in the country. “At Leadway Assurance, we understand that the creative industry is a very key component of our socio-economic wellbeing and as such we are committed to promoting the visibility of the African innovative spirit, her creativity and industry exhibited through the arts,� she stated. Adegbayi, speaking on Leadway’s role in the exhibition, reiterated that Leadway Assurance has consistently remained front row players in the promotion of creativity in Nigeria, part-
nering with 13 affiliates of the Nollywood Creative Industry earlier this year by providing group life insurance coverage for registered members. Also speaking, Founder & Director, ART X Lagos, Tokini Peterside, said ART X Lagos, is West African’s premier international art fair designed to showcase the best and most innovative contemporary art from the African continent and Diaspora, and to widen Nigeria’s connection to the art scene across Africa and internationally. According to him, the 2016 debut of the fair received wide attendance, having in participation over 5,000 people from the Nigerian and international art scene. He said ARTX Lagos, is an African platform for African artists, on the African continent, adding “we celebrate artists, art students, scholars, collectors, art professionals and art lovers, who are playing a fair role in the growth of African economies, which are now among the fastest-growing in the world.
Nigeria, Ghana Sign MoU on Maritime Operations Eromosele Abiodun In line with its vision to enhance regional cooperation to develop capacity, the Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency, NIMASA, has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the Ghanaian Maritime Authority (GMA). At the official signing of the MoU at the Nigerian Maritime Resource Development Centre in Lagos, the Director General of NIMASA, Dr. Dakuku Peterside noted that intra-African collaboration is a vital requirement for Africans to effectively harness the natural potentials that the Blue economy represent for the continent. He said: �African countries must cooperate to solve challenges peculiar to the continent. All maritime nations on the Afri-
can continent have comparative advantage in different areas, and only collaboration will ensure that we complement each other, thus ensuring that the maritime sector contribute effectively to the growth of the continent.� Peterside noted that Nigeria and Ghana have a historical link in the maritime sector, adding that the African maritime sector is richly endowed to the extent that coastal and aquatic ecosystems within the continent are treasures that provide diverse and vibrant natural resources. The NIMASA boss, who is also the Chairman of the Association of Heads of African Maritime Administrations, commended the management of Ghana Maritime Authority(GMA) for seeking the collaboration and noted that
the move will go a long way to strengthen efforts in the areas of promotion of scientific and technical cooperation; trade and movement facilitation; Exchange of information, data, knowledge and experience. “The importance of bilateral cooperation to solve maritime environmental challenges that transcend international boundaries in our coastal and aquatic ecosystem cannot be overemphasised. We are ready, and will give our supports to tackle all associated maritime challenges that have over time impede and slow the region’s maritime sectoral progress. We are ready to work with Ghana in all fronts within our defined and enabling capacities. NIMASA will not relent or derelict its duties and responsibilities within the contemplation of this MoU,�he said.
RISK MANAGEMENT WATCH Robert Mbonu
Enterprise Risk Management - The Public Sector (I) ase: Nigeria’s response to the Ebola outbreak Ě‹ Ă˜ ͺ͸ Ă&#x;Ă–ĂŁËœ ͺ͸͚͟ a symptomatic air traveler whose sister had just died from the Ebola virus in Ă“ĂŒĂ?ĂœĂ“Ă‹ Ă?Ă˜ĂžĂ?ĂœĂ?ĂŽ Ă‹Ă‘Ă™Ă?Ëœ Ă“Ă‘Ă?ĂœĂ“Ă‹Ëœ Ă‹Ă˜ĂŽ ĂĄĂ‹Ă? ĂŽĂœĂ“Ă Ă?Ă˜ ÞÙ Ă‹ ĂšĂœĂ“Ă Ă‹ĂžĂ? Ă’Ă™Ă?ĂšĂ“ĂžĂ‹Ă–Ëœ ĂĄĂ’Ă?ĂœĂ? Ă’Ă? ÞÙÖÎ Ă?ÞËʼ Ă’Ă? Ă’Ă‹ĂŽ Ă—Ă‹Ă–Ă‹ĂœĂ“Ă‹Ë› Ă Ă?Ăœ ÞÒĂ? Ă?Ă™Ă—Ă“Ă˜Ă‘ ĂŽĂ‹ĂŁĂ?Ëœ Î doctors and nurses became infected with the Ă Ă“ĂœĂ&#x;Ă? Ă‹Ă˜ĂŽ Íź Ă™Ă? ÞÒĂ?Ă— ĂŽĂ“Ă?ĂŽË› Ę°Ă?Ăœ ÞÒĂ? ĂŒĂ™Ă–Ă‹ Ă Ă“ĂœĂ&#x;Ă? ĂĄĂ‹Ă? Ă‹Ă˜Ă˜Ă™Ă&#x;Ă˜Ă?Ă?ĂŽ Ă‹Ă? ÞÒĂ? Ă?Ă‹Ă&#x;Ă?ËÞÓà Ă? Ă‹Ă‘Ă?Ă˜Ăž Ă™Ă˜ ͺ͝ Ă&#x;Ă–ĂŁËœ ÞÒĂ? ĂšĂ&#x;ĂŒĂ–Ă“Ă? Ă’Ă?ËÖÞÒ agency swung into action. No one believed that eective contact tracing could be undertaken in Ă‹ Ă?ÒËÙÞÓĂ? Ă‹Ă˜ĂŽ ĂŽĂ?Ă˜Ă?Ă?Ă–ĂŁ ÚÙÚĂ&#x;Ă–Ă‹ĂžĂ?ĂŽ Ă?ÓÞã Ă–Ă“Ă•Ă? Ă‹Ă‘Ă™Ă?Ëœ with many poor people living in crowded slums and a population that swelled and ebbed every day as people came to the city looking for work. Many envisioned an urban apocalypse. Ă’Ă‹Ăž Ă?âÚÖÙĂ?Ă“Ă™Ă˜ Ă˜Ă?Ă Ă?Ăœ ÒËÚÚĂ?Ă˜Ă?ĂŽËœ ĂžĂ’Ă‹Ă˜Ă•Ă? ÞÙ leadership and the public sector response through eective coordination that was both immediate and aggressive. Ă’Ă? ÑÙà Ă?ĂœĂ˜Ă—Ă?Ă˜Ăž Ă‘Ă?Ă˜Ă?ĂœĂ™Ă&#x;Ă?Ă–ĂŁ Ă‹Ă–Ă–Ă™Ă?Ă‹ĂžĂ?ĂŽ Ă?Ă&#x;Ă˜ĂŽĂ?Ë›
Ă?Ă™Ă–Ă‹ĂžĂ“Ă™Ă˜ Ă?Ă‹Ă?ÓÖÓÞÓĂ?Ă? ĂĄĂ?ĂœĂ? ĂŒĂ&#x;Ă“Ă–ĂžËœ Ă‹Ă? ĂĄĂ?ĂœĂ? ĂŽĂ?Ă?Ă“Ă‘Ă˜Ă‹ĂžĂ?ĂŽ Ebola treatment facilities. House-to-house information campaigns and messages on local ĂœĂ‹ĂŽĂ“Ă™ Ă?ĂžĂ‹ĂžĂ“Ă™Ă˜Ă?Ëœ Ă“Ă˜ Ă–Ă™Ă?Ă‹Ă– ĂŽĂ“Ă‹Ă–Ă?Ă?ĂžĂ?Ëœ ĂĄĂ?ĂœĂ? Ă&#x;Ă?Ă?ĂŽ ÞÙ ease public fears. In what W.H.O described as a “spectacular sucĂ?Ă?Ă?Ă? Ă?ĂžĂ™ĂœĂŁËŹËœ ÞÒĂ? Ă?Ă™Ă&#x;Ă˜ĂžĂœĂŁ Ă’Ă?Ă–ĂŽ ÞÒĂ? Ă˜Ă&#x;Ă—ĂŒĂ?Ăœ Ă™Ă? Ă?Ă‹Ă?Ă?Ă? ÞÙ ͚Π˜ åÓÞÒ Íż ĂŽĂ?ËÞÒĂ?Ë› Ă™ĂœĂ–ĂŽĚ‹Ă?Ă–Ă‹Ă?Ă? Ă?ÚÓÎĂ?×ÓÙÖÙÑÓĂ?Ă‹Ă– detective work eventually linked all cases back to either direct or indirect contact with the air traveler from Liberia. Nigeria was declared free of the Ebola virus transmission on 20 October. Ă’Ă? Ă?Ă‹Ă?Ăž Ă‹Ă˜ĂŽ Ă?ĘĽĂ?Ă?ÞÓà Ă? ĂœĂ?Ă?ĂšĂ™Ă˜Ă?Ă? ĂŒĂŁ ÞÒĂ? Ă Ă‹ĂœĂ“Ă™Ă&#x;Ă? agencies to manage the Ebola crises was proof ÞÒËÞ ÞÒĂ? ĂšĂ&#x;ĂŒĂ–Ă“Ă? Ă?Ă?Ă?ĂžĂ™Ăœ Ă“Ă˜ Ă“Ă‘Ă?ĂœĂ“Ă‹ Ă“Ă? Ă?Ă‹ĂšĂ‹ĂŒĂ–Ă?Ëœ Ă‹Ă˜ĂŽ Ă?Ă‹Ă˜ ĂœĂ?Ă?ĂšĂ™Ă˜ĂŽ ĂĄĂ?Ă–Ă– Ă“Ă˜ ÞÓ×Ă?Ă? Ă™Ă? Ă?ĂœĂ“Ă?Ă?Ă?Ë› Ă’Ă? Ă–Ă?Ă?Ă?Ă™Ă˜ Ă“Ă? ÞÙ Ă?Ă’Ă“Ę° Ă?ĂœĂ™Ă— ĂŒĂ?Ă“Ă˜Ă‘ ĂœĂ?Ă‹Ă?ÞÓà Ă? ÞÙ Ă‹ ĂšĂœĂ™Ă‹Ă?ÞÓà Ă? stance. Risk management frameworks provide the proactive solutions to manage potential health or other crises. Ă&#x;ĂŒĂ–Ă“Ă? Ă?Ă?Ă?ĂžĂ™Ăœ Ă™ĂœĂ‘Ă‹Ă˜Ă“Ă¤Ă‹ĂžĂ“Ă™Ă˜Ă? Ě™ ËŞĂ? ĚŽ Ă—Ă“Ă˜Ă“Ă?ĂžĂœĂ“Ă?Ă?Ëœ departments and agencies) must be agile and ready Ă‹Ăž Ă‹Ă–Ă– ÞÓ×Ă?Ă?Ëœ Ă‹Ă˜ĂŽ Ă˜Ă™Ăž Ă™Ă˜Ă–ĂŁ Ă“Ă˜ Ă‹ Ă?ĂœĂ“Ă?Ă?Ă?Ë› Ă’ĂœĂ?Ă? Ă“Ă˜ĂžĂ?ĂœĂ˜Ă‹Ă– forces of resistance that make it hard to become agile without a crisis and to maintain that agility Ă‹Ę°Ă?Ăœ Ă“Ăž Ă?Ă˜ĂŽĂ?Ëœ Ă“Ă˜Ă?Ă–Ă&#x;ĂŽĂ?Ëœ Ă‹ Ă?Ă&#x;Ă–ĂžĂ&#x;ĂœĂ‹Ă– Ă‹Ă Ă?ĂœĂ?Ă“Ă™Ă˜ ÞÙ ĂœĂ“Ă?Ă•Ëœ Ă?Ă&#x;Ă˜Ă?ĂžĂ“Ă™Ă˜Ă‹Ă– Ă?Ă“Ă–Ă™Ă?Ëœ Ă‹Ă˜ĂŽ Ă™ĂœĂ‘Ă‹Ă˜Ă“Ă¤Ă‹ĂžĂ“Ă™Ă˜Ă‹Ă– Ă?Ù×ÚÖĂ?âÓÞã˛ Ă’Ă? ĂšĂ&#x;ĂŒĂ–Ă“Ă? Ă?Ă?Ă?ĂžĂ™Ăœ Ă“Ă? Ă?Ă’Ă‹ĂœĂ‹Ă?ĂžĂ?ĂœĂ“Ă?Ă?ĂŽ ĂŒĂŁ Ă‹ Ă?Ă&#x;Ă–ĂžĂ&#x;ĂœĂ‹Ă– Ă‹Ă Ă?ĂœĂ?Ă“Ă™Ă˜ ÞÙ ĂœĂ“Ă?Ă•Ë› Ùà Ă?ĂœĂ˜Ă—Ă?Ă˜Ăž ÙʊĂ?Ă“Ă‹Ă–Ă?Ëœ Ă?Ă™Ăœ Ă?âË×ÚÖĂ?Ëœ ĂĄĂ™ĂœĂœĂŁ Ă‹ĂŒĂ™Ă&#x;Ăž ĂŒĂ?Ă“Ă˜Ă‘ ĂĄĂœĂ™Ă˜Ă‘Ëœ Ă‹Ă˜Ă‘Ă?ĂœĂ“Ă˜Ă‘ Ă?Ă&#x;ĂšĂ?ĂœĂ“Ă™ĂœĂ?Ëœ and alienating other agencies more than they ĂŒĂ?Ă?Ù×Ă? Ă?âĂ?Ă“ĂžĂ?ĂŽ Ă‹ĂŒĂ™Ă&#x;Ăž ĂšĂœĂ™ĂšĂ™Ă?Ă“Ă˜Ă‘ Ă˜Ă?ĂĄ ĂšĂœĂ™Ă‘ĂœĂ‹Ă—Ă?Ëœ ĂŽĂ?Ă Ă?Ă–Ă™ĂšĂ“Ă˜Ă‘ Ă?Ă‹Ă?ĂžĂ?Ăœ ÙÚĂ?ĂœĂ‹ĂžĂ“Ă˜Ă‘ ×ÙÎĂ?Ă–Ă?Ëœ Ă™Ăœ ĂšĂ“Ă–Ă™ĂžĂ“Ă˜Ă‘ new partnerships. Without an imperative to act Ě™Ă?Ă&#x;Ă?Ă’ Ă‹Ă? ÞÒĂ? ĂšĂœĂ™Ę¨Ăž ×ÙÞÓà Ă? Ă“Ă˜ ÞÒĂ? ĂšĂœĂ“Ă Ă‹ĂžĂ? Ă?Ă?Ă?ĂžĂ™ĂœĚšËœ ÓÞ˪Ă? ĂœĂ‹ĂžĂ“Ă™Ă˜Ă‹Ă– ÞÙ Ă?Ă?Ă?Ă• Ă?Ă Ă?Ăœ Ă—Ă™ĂœĂ? Ă“Ă˜Ă?Ă™ĂœĂ—Ă‹ĂžĂ“Ă™Ă˜Ëœ ÞÙ Ă?Ă™Ă˜ĂŽĂ&#x;Ă?Ăž Ă‹ĂŽĂŽĂ“ĂžĂ“Ă™Ă˜Ă‹Ă– Ă‹Ă˜Ă‹Ă–ĂŁĂ?Ă?Ă?Ëœ ÞÙ Ă‹ĂĄĂ‹Ă“Ăž ĂšĂ?ĂœĂ—Ă“Ă?Ă?Ă“Ă™Ă˜Ëœ or to optimize for the interests of the “tribeâ€? ĂœĂ‹ĂžĂ’Ă?Ăœ ĂžĂ’Ă‹Ă˜ ÞÒĂ? Ă™ĂœĂ‘Ă‹Ă˜Ă“Ă¤Ă‹ĂžĂ“Ă™Ă˜ Ă‹Ă? Ă‹ åÒÙÖĂ?Ë› Ă’Ă? range of stakeholders to satisfy and scrutiny from the media further diminish the willingness Ă™Ă? ĂšĂ&#x;ĂŒĂ–Ă“Ă?Ě‹Ă?Ă?Ă?ĂžĂ™Ăœ Ă?âĂ?Ă?Ă&#x;ÞÓà Ă?Ă? ÞÙ ÞËÕĂ? ĂœĂ“Ă?Ă•Ă?Ë› It appears that only crises situations cause people in the public service to stick out their Ă˜Ă?Ă?Ă•Ă?Ë› Ăž ÞÒËÞ ĂšĂ™Ă“Ă˜ĂžËœ Ă“Ă˜Ă‹Ă?ĂžĂ“Ă™Ă˜ Ă“ĂžĂ?Ă?Ă–Ă? ĂŒĂ?Ă?Ù×Ă?Ă? Ă‹ ĂœĂ“Ă?Ă•Ëœ and entrepreneurship and best-eort judgments are rewarded. Errors are no longer feared; they Ă‹ĂœĂ? Ă?âÚĂ?Ă?ĂžĂ?ĂŽËœ Ă‹Ă?Ă?Ă?ÚÞĂ?ĂŽĚ?Ă‹Ă˜ĂŽ Ă?Ă™ĂœĂœĂ?Ă?ĂžĂ?ĂŽË› Ă’Ă? Ă?âÓĂ?ĂžĂ?Ă˜Ă?Ă? Ă™Ă? Ă–Ă‹ĂŁĂ?ĂœĂ? Ă™Ă? Ă—Ă‹Ă˜Ă‹Ă‘Ă?Ă—Ă?Ă˜Ăž Ă?ĂžĂœĂ&#x;Ă?ĂžĂ&#x;ĂœĂ?Ă? Ă‹Ă˜ĂŽ Ă?Ă&#x;Ă˜Ă?ĂžĂ“Ă™Ă˜Ă‹Ă– Ă?Ă“Ă–Ă™Ă? ÙʰĂ?Ă˜ Ă?Ă™ĂœĂ?Ă? ĂŽĂ?Ă?Ă“sions up to higher and higher levels of authority.
Ă˜ Ă‹ ÞãÚÓĂ?Ă‹Ă– ÑÙà Ă?ĂœĂ˜Ă—Ă?Ă˜Ăž Ă—Ă“Ă˜Ă“Ă?ĂžĂœĂŁ Ă?Ă™Ăœ Ă“Ă˜Ă?ĂžĂ‹Ă˜Ă?Ă?Ëœ
ĂĄĂ’Ă?ĂœĂ? ÞÒĂ?ĂœĂ? Ă‹ĂœĂ? Ă?Ă?Ă Ă?ĂœĂ‹Ă– Ă‹Ă‘Ă?Ă˜Ă?Ă“Ă?Ă?Ëœ Ă“Ăž Ă“Ă? ĂŽĂ“ĘŠĂ?Ă&#x;Ă–Ăž ÞÙ Ă“Ă˜ĂžĂ?Ă‘ĂœĂ‹ĂžĂ? Ă‹Ă?ÞÓà ÓÞÓĂ?Ă? Ă‹Ă?ĂœĂ™Ă?Ă? Ă?Ă&#x;Ă˜Ă?ĂžĂ“Ă™Ă˜Ă‹Ă–Ëœ Ă‹Ă‘Ă?Ă˜Ă?ĂŁËœ and geographic lines. Ă’Ă? Ă“Ă˜Ă‘ĂœĂ‹Ă“Ă˜Ă?ĂŽ Ă?Ă&#x;Ă–ĂžĂ&#x;ĂœĂ? Ă™Ă? Ă—Ă“Ă?ĂœĂ™Ă—Ă‹Ă˜Ă‹Ă‘Ă?Ă—Ă?Ă˜Ăž and bureaucracy in the public sector is such that recommendations and approvals must be ÚËĂ?Ă?Ă?ĂŽ Ă?ĂœĂ™Ă— Ă™Ă˜Ă? Ă–Ă?Ă Ă?Ă– ÞÙ ÞÒĂ? Ă˜Ă?âÞ Ă™Ă˜Ă? Ă‹ĂŒĂ™Ă Ă?Ëœ which tends to slow things down tremendously.
Ă˜ Ă‹ Ă?ĂœĂ“Ă?Ă“Ă?Ëœ ÒÙåĂ?Ă Ă?ĂœËœ ÞÒĂ? Ă&#x;ĂœĂ‘Ă?Ă˜Ăž Ă˜Ă?Ă?ĂŽ ÞÙ Ă?Ù×Ă? Ă&#x;Ăš åÓÞÒ Ă?ÙÖĂ&#x;ĂžĂ“Ă™Ă˜Ă? ÙʰĂ?Ă˜ ĂŒĂœĂ?Ă‹Ă•Ă? ĂŽĂ™ĂĄĂ˜ ÞãÚÓĂ?Ă‹Ă– ĂŒĂ‹ĂœĂœĂ“Ă?ĂœĂ? ĂŒĂ?ÞåĂ?Ă?Ă˜ Ă‹Ă‘Ă?Ă˜Ă?Ă“Ă?Ă?Ë› Ă‹ĂšĂ“ĂŽËœ Ă?ĂœĂ™Ă?Ă?Ě‹Ă‹Ă‘Ă?Ă˜Ă?ĂŁËœ Ă‹Ă˜ĂŽ ÙʰĂ?Ă˜ ĂšĂ?ĂœĂ?Ă™Ă˜Ă‹Ă– Ă?Ă˜Ă‘Ă‹Ă‘Ă?Ă—Ă?Ă˜Ăž ĂœĂ?ÚÖËĂ?Ă?Ă? Ă?Ă–Ă™ĂĄĚ‹Ă—Ă™Ă Ă“Ă˜Ă‘Ëœ ĂžĂ?ĂœĂœĂ“ĂžĂ™ĂœĂ“Ă‹Ă– Ă?Ù××Ă&#x;Ă˜Ă“Ă?Ă‹ĂžĂ“Ă™Ă˜Ëœ ÙʰĂ?Ă˜ ĂžĂ’ĂœĂ™Ă&#x;Ă‘Ă’ Ă–Ă?Ă˜Ă‘ĂžĂ’ĂŁ reports. Leaders develop solutions together and Ă?Ă’Ă‹ĂœĂ? Ă?ĂœĂ?ĂŽĂ“Ăž Ă?Ă™Ăœ ÞÒĂ?Ă—Ë› Ă Ă?ĂœĂžĂ“Ă˜Ă‘ Ă‹ Ă?ĂœĂ“Ă?Ă“Ă? Ă“Ă? Ă‹ ĂžĂ?Ă‹Ă— sport. Ă˜Ă™ĂžĂ’Ă?Ăœ ĂœĂ?Ă‹Ă?Ă™Ă˜ Ă?Ă™Ăœ ÞÒĂ? Ă?ÖÙå ĂœĂ?Ă?ĂšĂ™Ă˜Ă?Ă? Ă“Ă˜ ÞÒĂ? ĂšĂ&#x;ĂŒĂ–Ă“Ă? Ă?Ă?Ă?ĂžĂ™Ăœ Ă?Ă™Ă&#x;Ă–ĂŽ ĂŒĂ? ÞÒĂ? Ă™ĂœĂ‘Ă‹Ă˜Ă“Ă¤Ă‹ĂžĂ“Ă™Ă˜Ă‹Ă– Ă?Ù×ÚÖĂ?âity that obtains. Public-sector organizations are Ă‹Ă—Ă™Ă˜Ă‘ ÞÒĂ? Ă–Ă‹ĂœĂ‘Ă?Ă?ĂžËœ Ă—Ă™Ă?Ăž Ă?Ù×ÚÖĂ?â Ă“Ă˜ Ă?âÓĂ?ĂžĂ?Ă˜Ă?Ă? ÞÙÎËã˛ Ù×ÚÖĂ?âÓÞã Ă—Ă‹Ă•Ă?Ă? Ă‘Ă?ĘľĂ“Ă˜Ă‘ ĂžĂ’Ă“Ă˜Ă‘Ă? ĂŽĂ™Ă˜Ă? Ă’Ă‹ĂœĂŽĂ?ĂœË› Ùà Ă?ĂœĂ˜Ă—Ă?Ă˜Ăž ĂšĂœĂ™Ă?Ă&#x;ĂœĂ?Ă—Ă?Ă˜Ăž ĂœĂ?Ă‘Ă&#x;Ă–Ă‹ĂžĂ“Ă™Ă˜Ă?Ëœ Ă?Ă™Ăœ Ă“Ă˜Ă?ĂžĂ‹Ă˜Ă?Ă?Ëœ Ă‹ĂœĂ? Ă Ă?ĂœĂŁ Ă?Ù×ÚÖĂ?â åÓÞÒ ĂžĂ?Ă˜Ă? Ă™Ă? thousands of pages of rules and policies. Ă&#x;Ăž Ă“Ă˜ ÞÓ×Ă?Ă? Ă™Ă? Ă?ĂœĂ“Ă?Ă“Ă?Ëœ ĂĄĂ’Ă?Ă˜ ĂŒĂ&#x;ĂœĂ?Ă‹Ă&#x;Ă?ĂœĂ‹ĂžĂ? Ă?Ă‹ĂŁ ÞÒËÞ Ă?Ù×Ă?ĂžĂ’Ă“Ă˜Ă‘ Ă?Ă‹Ă˜ËŞĂž ĂŒĂ? ĂŽĂ™Ă˜Ă? Ă›Ă&#x;Ă“Ă?Ă•Ă–ĂŁËœ ÙÞÒĂ?Ăœ ĂŒĂ&#x;ĂœĂ?Ă‹Ă&#x;Ă?ĂœĂ‹ĂžĂ? Ă‹Ă?Ă• ĂĄĂ’ĂŁ Ă˜Ă™ĂžË› Ă&#x;ĂŽĂŽĂ?Ă˜Ă–ĂŁËœ Ă“Ăž ĂŒĂ?Ă?Ù×Ă?Ă? Ă™ĂŒĂ Ă“Ă™Ă&#x;Ă? ÞÒËÞ ÞÒĂ? Ă?Ă™ĂœĂ?Ă? ĂŒĂ?Ă’Ă“Ă˜ĂŽ Ă—Ă‹Ă˜ĂŁ ĂœĂ&#x;Ă–Ă?Ă? Ă“Ă? Ă’Ă‹ĂŒĂ“ĂžËœ Ă˜Ă™Ăž Ă–Ă‹ĂĄË›
Ă˜ ÞÒĂ? ĂŒĂ™Ă–Ă‹ Ă?Ă‹Ă?Ă? Ă?ĂžĂ&#x;ĂŽĂŁËœ ÞÒĂ? ĂœĂ&#x;Ă–Ă?Ă? ĂĄĂ?ĂœĂ? ĂœĂ?Ă Ă“Ă?Ă?ĂŽ to provide for greater transparency and faster decision making. In contrast to risk management in the private Ă?Ă?Ă?ĂžĂ™ĂœËœ ĂšĂ&#x;ĂŒĂ–Ă“Ă? Ă?Ă?Ă?ĂžĂ™Ăœ ĂœĂ“Ă?Ă• Ă—Ă‹Ă˜Ă‹Ă‘Ă?Ă—Ă?Ă˜Ăž Ă‹ĘĽĂ?Ă?ĂžĂ? Ă—Ă&#x;Ă?Ă’ Ă™Ă? ÞÒĂ? ÚÙÚĂ&#x;Ă–Ă‹ĂžĂ“Ă™Ă˜Ëœ Ă‹Ă˜ĂŽ Ă?Ă™ Ă?Ă’Ă™Ă&#x;Ă–ĂŽ Ă‘Ă?Ă˜Ă?Ăœate a great deal of political interest and some Ă?Ă™Ă˜ĂžĂœĂ™Ă Ă?ĂœĂ?ĂŁË› Ăž Ă“Ă? Ă‹Ă–Ă?Ă™ ĂšĂ‹ĂœĂžĂ“Ă?Ă&#x;Ă–Ă‹ĂœĂ–ĂŁ Ă?Ù×ÚÖÓĂ?Ă‹ĂžĂ?ĂŽËœ Ă‹Ă˜ĂŽ ÙʰĂ?Ă˜ ĂšĂœĂ™ĂŒĂ–Ă?×ËÞÓĂ? ĚŽ Ă˜Ă™Ăž Ă–Ă?Ă‹Ă?Ăž Ă™Ă˜ Ă‹Ă?Ă?Ă™Ă&#x;Ă˜Ăž Ă™Ă? ÞÒĂ? Ă˜Ă&#x;Ă—ĂŒĂ?ĂœĂ? Ă™Ă? ĂšĂ?ÙÚÖĂ? Ă“Ă˜Ă Ă™Ă–Ă Ă?ĂŽËœ ÞÒĂ? ĂžĂœĂ‹ĂŽĂ“ĂžĂ“Ă™Ă˜ Ă™Ă? strong employment protection and high levels of ĂžĂœĂ‹ĂŽĂ? Ă&#x;Ă˜Ă“Ă™Ă˜ ĂœĂ?ĂšĂœĂ?Ă?Ă?Ă˜ĂžĂ‹ĂžĂ“Ă™Ă˜Ë› Ă’Ă? ĂœĂ‹ĂžĂ“Ă™Ă˜Ă‹Ă–Ă? Ă?Ă™Ăœ ĂšĂ&#x;ĂŒĂ–Ă“Ă? sector risk management is also very dierent to ÞÒËÞ Ă“Ă˜ ÞÒĂ? ĂšĂœĂ“Ă Ă‹ĂžĂ? Ă?Ă?Ă?ĂžĂ™ĂœËœ Ă™Ă˜Ă? Ă“Ă—ĂšĂ™ĂœĂžĂ‹Ă˜Ăž Ă?Ă‹Ă?ĂžĂ™Ăœ being that it is not motivated by a decrease in demand for its services. Recent needs for public Ă?Ă?Ă?ĂžĂ™Ăœ ĂœĂ“Ă?Ă• Ă—Ă‹Ă˜Ă‹Ă‘Ă?Ă—Ă?Ă˜Ăž Ă’Ă‹Ă? Ă‹Ă–Ă—Ă™Ă?Ăž Ă?âĂ?Ă–Ă&#x;Ă?Ă“Ă Ă?Ă–ĂŁ been triggered by the dire state of public ďŹ nances and tightening budgets.
Ă˜ ĂœĂ?Ă?Ă?Ă˜Ăž ĂŁĂ?Ă‹ĂœĂ?Ëœ ÞÒĂ? Ă?Ă?ĂŽĂ?ĂœĂ‹Ă– ÑÙà Ă?ĂœĂ˜Ă—Ă?Ă˜Ăž Ă’Ă‹Ă? been on the receiving end of new legislation and ĂœĂ?Ă‘Ă&#x;Ă–Ă‹ĂžĂ“Ă™Ă˜Ă? ÞÒËÞ ĂœĂ?Ă›Ă&#x;Ă“ĂœĂ? Ă“Ăž ÞÙ ĂŒĂ?ĘľĂ?Ăœ Ă—Ă‹Ă˜Ă‹Ă‘Ă? ĂœĂ“Ă?Ă• Ă‹Ă˜ĂŽ Ă“Ă—ĂšĂœĂ™Ă Ă? Ă?Ă™Ă˜ĂžĂœĂ™Ă–Ă? Ă“Ă˜ Ă Ă‹ĂœĂ“Ă™Ă&#x;Ă? Ă‹ĂœĂ?Ă‹Ă?Ë› Ă?Ă˜Ă?ĂœĂ‹Ă–Ă–ĂŁËœ ÞÙ Ă?Ù×ÚÖã åÓÞÒ ÞÒĂ? ĂœĂ?Ă›Ă&#x;Ă“ĂœĂ?Ă—Ă?Ă˜ĂžĂ? Ă™Ă? Ă?Ă‹Ă?Ă’ Ă™Ă? ÞÒĂ?Ă?Ă? Ă˜Ă?ĂĄ Ă—Ă‹Ă˜ĂŽĂ‹ĂžĂ?Ă?Ëœ Ă‹Ă‘Ă?Ă˜Ă?Ă“Ă?Ă? Ă’Ă‹Ă Ă? Ă’Ă‹ĂŽ ÞÙ ĂšĂ&#x;Ăž Ă“Ă˜ ÚÖËĂ?Ă? Ă?Ă™Ă—ĂšĂ–Ă“Ă‹Ă˜Ă?Ă? ĂšĂœĂ™Ă‘ĂœĂ‹Ă—Ă?Ë› Ă’Ă“Ă? Ă?Ă“Ă–Ă™ Ă‹ĂšĂšĂœĂ™Ă‹Ă?Ă’ ÞÙ Ă?Ă™Ă—ĂšĂ–Ă“Ă‹Ă˜Ă?Ă? Ă“Ă? Ă?Ă™Ă?ÞÖã Ă‹Ă˜ĂŽ ĂŽĂ™Ă?Ă? Ă˜Ă™Ăž ÙÚÞÓ×ÓäĂ? Ă Ă‹Ă–Ă&#x;Ă?Ë› Ă’Ă“Ă? Ă?ÙÖĂ&#x;Ă—Ă˜ Ă“Ă˜ ÞÒĂ? Ă?Ă™Ă—Ă“Ă˜Ă‘ ĂĄĂ?Ă?Ă•Ă? ĂĄĂ“Ă–Ă– Ă?Ă˘ĂšĂ–Ă™ĂœĂ? ÒÙå ĂšĂ&#x;ĂŒĂ–Ă“Ă? sector managers can help guide their agencies to take a more holistic approach to risk management by implementing an Enterprise Risk Management Ě™ Ěš Ă?ĂœĂ‹Ă—Ă?ĂĄĂ™ĂœĂ• Ă?ĂŁĂ?ĂžĂ?Ă—Ë› Ă’Ă“Ă? Ă‹ĂšĂšĂœĂ™Ă‹Ă?Ă’ Ă’Ă?Ă–ĂšĂ? ĂœĂ?ĂŽĂ&#x;Ă?Ă? ÞÒĂ? ÞÙÞËÖ Ă?Ă™Ă?Ăž Ă™Ă? Ă?Ă™Ă—ĂšĂ–Ă“Ă‹Ă˜Ă?Ă?Ëœ ĂĄĂ’Ă“Ă–Ă? Ă’Ă?Ă–ĂšĂ“Ă˜Ă‘ agencies achieve greater value from their risk management activities. Ëž ĂŒĂ™Ă˜Ă&#x;Ëœ Ëœ Ě™ ĚšËœ Ëœ Ă? Ě™ ĂžĂ?ĂœĂ˜ĚšËœ Ă?ĂžĂ&#x;ĂŽĂ“Ă?ĂŽ Ă˜Ă‘Ă“Ă˜Ă?Ă?ĂœĂ“Ă˜Ă‘Ëœ Ă“Ă? Ă‹Ă˜ Ă?âÚĂ?ĂœĂ“Ă?Ă˜Ă?Ă?ĂŽ Ă‹Ă˜Ă•Ă?Ăœ Ëž ĂŒĂ™Ă˜Ă&#x;Ëœ Ëœ Ě™ ĚšËœ Ëœ Ă? Ě™ ĂžĂ?ĂœĂ˜ĚšËœ Ă?ĂžĂ&#x;ĂŽĂ“Ă?ĂŽ Ă˜Ă‘Ă“Ă˜Ă?Ă?ĂœĂ“Ă˜Ă‘Ëœ Ă“Ă? Ă‹Ă˜ Ă?âÚĂ?ĂœĂ“Ă?Ă˜Ă?Ă?ĂŽ Ă‹Ă˜Ă•Ă?Ăœ Ă‹Ă˜ĂŽ Ă˜ĂžĂ?ĂœĂšĂœĂ“Ă?Ă? Ă“Ă?Ă• Ă‹Ă˜Ă‹Ă‘Ă?Ă—Ă?Ă˜Ăž ĂšĂœĂ™Ă?Ă?Ă?Ă?Ă“Ă™Ă˜Ă‹Ă–Ë› Ă‹ĂœĂ˜Ă?ĂŽ Ă‹ ÚÙĂ?Ăž Ă‘ĂœĂ‹ĂŽĂ&#x;Ă‹ĂžĂ? ĂŽĂ?Ă‘ĂœĂ?Ă? Ă“Ă˜ Ă“Ă?Ă• Ă‹Ă˜Ă‹Ă‘Ă?Ă—Ă?Ă˜Ăž Ă?ĂœĂ™Ă— Ă?ĂĄ Ă™ĂœĂ• Ă˜Ă“Ă Ă?ĂœĂ?ÓÞã ĂžĂ?ĂœĂ˜ Ă?ÒÙÙÖ Ă™Ă? Ă&#x;Ă?Ă“Ă˜Ă?Ă?Ă?Ëœ Ă‹Ă˜ĂŽ Ă“Ă? Ă‹ Ă—Ă?Ă—ĂŒĂ?Ăœ Ă™Ă? ÞÒĂ? Ă˜Ă?ÞÓÞĂ&#x;ĂžĂ? Ă™Ă? Ă“Ă?Ă• Ă‹Ă˜Ă‹Ă‘Ă?Ă—Ă?Ă˜Ăž Ě‹ Ë› Ă‹Ă˜ ĂŒĂ? ĂœĂ?Ă‹Ă?Ă’Ă?ĂŽ Ă™Ă˜ ͸Π͸Πͺ͸Πͺ͸͟͞ Ě™ Ă˜Ă–ĂŁĚšËž Ă?Ă—Ă‹Ă“Ă–Ë? ĂœĂ—ÍźĂœĂ“Ă?Õ×ÑÞ̜ Ă‘Ă—Ă‹Ă“Ă–Ë›Ă?Ù×
T H I S D AY ˾ ˜ Ͱͮ˜ Ͱͮͯ͵
22
BUSINESSWORLD
AVIATION
NAMA Signs MoU with US Based Space Agency The Nigerian Airspace Management Agency (NAMA) has signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) with Aireon LLC of United States on exploring the deployment of space-based Automatic Dependent Surveillance-Broadcast (ADS-B) system in Nigeria. In a statement, the Managing Director, Capt. Fola Akinkuotu said the ADS-B solution which is a recognised next-generation standard for surveillance and air traffic management is a critical requirement in preparation for the implementation of the relevant elements of Aviation System Block Upgrades (ASBU). Signing the MoU at the agency’s headquarters in Lagos, the NAMA boss who
expressed optimism that the ADS-B solution would ensure 100 per cent real time surveillance coverage of the Nigerian airspace noted that management was committed to exploring every opportunity and relevant technology to ensure safety of air navigation in the country in compliance with world best practices and regulatory requirements. Meanwhile, NAMA has been commended for its excellence in delivering expeditious air navigation services within the nation’s airspace. In a letter of commendation addressed to Akinkuotu, the Airport Manager of Virgin Atlantic Airways Limited, Justin Bell said the airline appreciates NAMA’s efficiency
in ensuring seamless, smooth and timely movement of aircraft across the Nigerian airspace, adding that the flight control team in the United Kingdom also appreciated the agency for its excellence in air navigation service provision. In a related development, the Minister of State, Aviation, Sen. Hadi Sirika has given kudos to NAMA for its “diligence and astuteness” in the discharge of its duties. In a letter signed by the Asst. Director of Air Transport, Richard Pheelangwah on behalf of the Minister, Sirika advised the agency to “keep up” the good job it is doing in ensuring safety of air travel in the country.
Emirates Introduces Flights to Guangzhou, China Chinedu Eze Global major carrier, Emirates Airlines has expanded its China destinations by adding Guangzhou to its routes. The new Country Manager, who is also the Regional Manager for West Africa, Mr. Afzai Parambil made this known during media briefing in Lagos recently. Parambil, who disclosed that he had travelled to 130 countries in the world, said he Nigeria is a major market for the airline, which at a time had about 36 percent of the of the Nigerian market and expressed the hope that soon the airline would resume its operations to Abuja and second flights to Lagos, which it discontinued at the beginning of this year. He said the airline, which before then operated 21 frequencies a week, said it took critical economic decision by suspending the two operations but expressed the hope that as Nigeria’s economy grows, Emirates would resume the flights. Parambil, who said that Nigeria has a huge potential market for air travel, noted that in the past only traders used to travel to China, but recently
in addition to business travel, many Nigerians also travel to destinations in China for leisure, tourism and others and many also embark on family trips. “China is very popular for visitors from across the world, including Nigeria, not just for leisure travellers, but also for business and trade. Our network in Asia including China is extensive. We fly to over 20 destinations in 13 countries, some of which include Beijing, Shanghai Guangzhou, Yinchuan, Zhengzhou, Seoul, Tokyo, Taipei, Kuala Lumpur, Singapore, Hong Kong, and many others. He said that many of these cities are major business and trade hubs and are also served by multiple Emirates’ flights a day, ensuring the airline’s customers have more choice and convenience when planning their travel. “Many of our Asian destinations are served by Emirates’ Iconic A380 double decker aircraft, which is very popular amongst our customers. Destinations to which we fly the A380 include again Beijing, Shanghai, Guangzhou, Taipei and Hong Kong, as well as Bangkok, Singapore, Seoul and Kuala Lumpur. As Emirates
we’re able to offer Nigerians real global connectivity with just one convenient stop at our modern hub Dubai. “Part of my role is to ensure that Emirates is the airline of choice for Nigerian travellers and that we offer the best possible experience in the air and on the ground. As an award winning airline, including being named the world’s best airline according to TripAdvisor 2017, Emirates offers its customers’ value for money with excellent products and services, and a global network that currently extends to 156 destinations in 84 countries,” he said. Parambil added that Emirates is the world’s only airline to operate an all Boeing 777 and Airbus A380 fleet with 97 A380s and 165 B777s in service. “When it comes to travel from Lagos to the East, Emirates has travellers covered with an extensive network and multiple flight options to key cities, allowing for shorter connectivity and convenience. As I’ve mentioned, Emirates offers its customers value for money. When travelling with us customers enjoy an array of award winning products and services, and includes,” he said.
Many Ex-Nigeria Airways Workers Die Waiting for Pension Chinedu Eze Many former personnel of the defunct Nigeria Airways Limited (NAL) have lost their lives while waiting for their pension and severance package to be paid by the federal government. It was disclosed Wednesday that not fewer than seven exemployees of the defunct NAL have died within the last one week as the workers continue to await the release of the N45 billion approved by the federal government for the payment of their pensions and gratuities. This was disclosed by the Chairman, Nigerian Airways Elders Forum, Mr. Godwin
Jibodu, who told journalists that many of them died, not due to old age but penury and lack of hope for tomorrow. Jibodu lamented that the pensioners were wallowing in abject poverty despite serving the nation exceptionally during their time in Nigerian Airways. “We have lost seven colleagues within the last one week because they could not afford proper treatment for their ailments. This is very sad because the government has approved N45 billion since June for payment of our pensions and gratuities.” Jibodu listed the recently deceased as Capt. Asuquo, Capt. Akintaju, Mr. K. C.
Amah, Mrs. Bose Oladumiye, Mr. Onyebuchi Anunobi, Mrs Adebayo Awoyinka, Mr. T. Bellgam and Mr. Ebenezer Akinbode. He added that another colleague, Capt. Charles Ntanyi had been missing since August after boarding a commercial bus at night in the Ogba area of Lagos. “We are appealing to Nigeria as a nation not to forget the contributions of Nigerian Airways to national development. Nigerian Airways was a partner to the government and till date has helped in building the capacity of workers in the aviation sector,” he said.
AIR WATCH Why Nigeria May Need a National Carrier Most debates on national carrier tend to tilt in favour of those who said that government owned airline cannot succeed in Nigeria, going by the experience of the defunct Nigeria Airways Limited. Those who oppose the establishment of a national carrier usually justify their position by saying government has no business doing business. But there is a new dimension to the clamour for a national carrier. And that is seeing a national airline as catalyst to the growth and development of other sectors of the economy. In this vein, the airline will not be established solely for profit but to support other sectors of the economy like tourism, manpower development, aircraft maintenance, catering, developing airports and creating a hub, while the airline is subsidized; maybe, not directly by government but from money generated by ancillary services, while government eliminates charges by the airline that could weigh it down. This may be a new dimension to the debate and this argument was proffered in the presentation made on Tuesday by the Chairman of Aso Savings and Loans Plc, an aviation consultant, Ali Mohammed Magashi during the Colloquium on Aviation 2017, organised by Simon Tumba of Nigeria Travel Mart in Lagos. He said that airline sub-sector does not guarantee better returns on investment, yet it needs huge capital and that is why the private sector is not enthused in investing in airline business. This is backed by the fact that airline operators, inclusion Richard Branson, acknowledge that airline business could make a billionaire become a millionaire, so there is no huge return on investment. Magashi therefore, argued that because of the poor returns on investment, the private sector may not be able to invest the quantum of funds needed for the sector. But considering the fact that aviation is a critical infrastructure, which facilitates the growth of other sectors of the economy as it provides the fastest movement from one place to another, conveying passengers and cargo, it is indispensable in the economic mix of any nation. Because the need for this service is critical it becomes part of government’s social services to the people and this explained why most of the airlines established in the world before now started as national carriers, but in the United States (US) while the airlines there could not be described as national but flag carriers; government at interludes inject funds into them so that they would continue to thrive and provide those services that sustain and grow the economy. “All the airlines that top the world are either owned or still owned by government. The reason is simple; aviation is not competitive in terms of returns, but it benefits other sectors of the economy and that is where government makes its profit. The truth is, there is no successful flag carrier in the world, so it is evident that aviation cannot be grown by the private sector alone. It is essentially a government turf, but the major challenge in Nigeria is political interference, which inhibited the growth of the Nigeria Airways,” Magashi said. He outlined the benefits of a national carrier, which the private sector driven airlines in Nigeria cannot provide. These include effective regulation and aircraft maintenance, noting that since the demise of the Nigeria Airways Limited (NAL) privately owned airlines have not been able to train engineers rather they would go for readymade engineers who were trained during the period the national carrier held
Aviation Minister, Hadi Sirika
sway. With the demise of and retirement of many of these engineers, Nigerian airlines now go for expatriates. So there is dearth of indigenous technical manpower because there is no national airline to train them. Magashi said that there is no local airline that is training pilots today and even those who trained cannot be absorbed by these airlines to do type-rating and these are services that used to be provided by the national carrier. “The only way to train manpower is to develop national carrier. This training is important because it is also for the security of the nation. It was poor manpower development and poor regulation that led to the accidents we had today,” he said. On the development of tourism, Magashi said that national carrier is key and made reference to Dubai and Emirates, South Africa tourism and South Africa Airways, Kenya Airways and Kenya tourism, noting that tourism flies on the wings of national carriers. “National carrier is embassy on the wings. Government needs to spend money on infrastructure. We need to move our aviation industry. Kenya doubled the growth of its tourism industry because of Kenya Airways,” he noted. The aviation consultant also remarked that national carrier is the pivot for job creation in the aviation industry and also the establishment of other ancillary services such as catering company, leasing company, aircraft insurance firms and partnerships with service providers like airport management, fuel suppliers and others. But the major challenge about establishing a national carrier is government interference. That was what made NAL go into bankruptcy, which prompted the Chief Olusegun Obasanjo’s government to liquidate it. So how can government insulate a national carrier from government interference, which is the main reason many industry insiders insist that national carrier cannot work in Nigeria? Magashi suggested that government could establish a governing council made of persons with established integrity and goodwill and those who have names to protect to head the national carrier, which would now appoint the management based on merit and not on federal character. He noted that in football, Nigeria do well because “we bring our best to the field. So when you appoint the best to manage the airline and ensure that there is no political interference it will grow.” Many in the industry still see establishing a national carrier as tough because of the fear that it may not thrive due to interference but Magashi hypothesis may be the best approach to the planned national carrier by the federal government.
T H I S D AY ˾ ˜ Ͱͮ˜ Ͱͮͯ͵
23
BUSINESSWORLD
AVIATION
Sanusi: Major Aircraft Maintenance Locally is Great for Nigeria Aero Contractors recently made history by undertaking the maintenance of a Boeing B737 Classic aircraft at the C-check level. The chief executive of the company, Capt Ado Sanusi described the feat as a major milestone for Nigeria that would engender local content in the aviation sector. He spoke to Chinedu Eze. Excerpts: How far have you gone with the Maintenance, Repair and Overhaul (MRO) project? Approved Maintenance Organisation has been given the nod by the Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA) for Aero to conduct C-checks. I have always said that Aero Contractors Maintenance Organisation has been in existence for about 58 years and it has been conducting checks and it has been improving. Over the years it has done remarkably well in maintaining small body aircraft like Bombardier Dash-8, Hawkers and other private jets. But there has always been a limiting factor for Aero Contractors to perform C-checks on Boeing B737 aircraft. So we now had a comprehensive look at what is needed so that we could achieve the great feat of carrying out C-check maintenance on Boeing B737 classics. Finally, we got all our people and every other thing ready and send them to NCAA to look at everything for approval. What we needed was to meet the specification for conducting C-check on bigger aircraft, the Boeing B737 classic, which include B737-300, B737-400 and B737-500.We have been conducting C-check on smaller aircraft before now, but a C-check on Boeing B737 is very, very important because B737 is one of the most popular airplanes in Nigeria and actually in Africa. So we are very confident that this achievement will go a long way, and it is a game changer in aviation industry in Nigeria. It is an achievement that we look at as a big improvement in the aviation sector. So the benefit is not only to Aero but the entire aviation sector in Nigeria. Before now people doubted whether you have the facility and expertise to do C-check? People doubt our capability to do C-check? I don’t think they doubt us. I think they doubt the NCAA. This is because NCAA is mandated by civil aviation law to give license and to authorise companies to fly and maintain aircraft. So if NCAA has the mandate by law to do it; then they should be able to give the license for airline to fly and also maintain airplanes and we have fulfilled the conditions and they have given us the mandate. I don’t think people should doubt, but to those people who are doubting, because there will be people that will doubt, it is very good to doubt and it is very good to criticise, but I will tell them that we are not stopping with NCAA. Before the end of the first half of next year we will get (European Aviation Safety Agency(EASA) approval and the people that doubt can continue to doubt. But before the end of next year we will get FAA (US Federal Aviation Administration) approval. These are the targets that we intend to achieve. So before the end of the first half of next year we will get FAA approval and before the end of the first quarter of next year we will get EASA approval. So we will be a maintenance organsiation that will be approved by the two major regulators in the world, which are FAA and EASA. I think that by then people who doubt will stop doubting. In the area of maintenance are you going to partner any organisation? We have entered into a lot of Memorandum of Understanding (MoUs). We have entered into a lot of agreements with tooling companies, spare parts companies. I am sure you are aware with our agreement with A J Walters. They will supply us with tooling; they will supply us with spare parts. They will support our MRO and it is with their support that we achieved what we have achieved so far. We have also entered into MoU with South Africa Airways Technical. As I had said in my
Sanusi
previous interviews, because this is our first C-check on Boeing 737, we would like to have some people from outside our company to come and look at the quality control of what we are doing and recommend what needs to be done if there is anything to be done differently.So, we are in touch with South Africa Airways Technical and they are already on ground with the quality control advisers throughout this project and they will be with us for a long time until we get experienced Nigerians that will continue with the quality control and the reason is that South Africa Airways Technical has done thousands of C-checks so they know the quality. And we are not producing for Nigerian standard; we are producing for international standard so we need somebody that will come and do quality control for us and advise us.Again, we have an agreement with Ethiopian Airlines Maintenance and according to the MoU we signed with them, they will give us specialised manpower, tooling and also see where they can support our MRO. As I have said several times, MRO is not something you said you want to build and you just build it, like a hotel. But MRO is something that must be started somewhere and because of the complex nature, it has to start somewhere and then develop into a big facility. All the big MROs you have seen started from somewhere, like Lufthansa Technic and others.
Last time we spoke you were talking about extending the maintenance hangar. How far have you gone with the job? It has been done. It is part of the prerequisite for the certification to make sure that the airplane is enclosed in the hangar. We have extended the hangar and we did it in a very efficient and cost effective manner. Have you informed other airlines that Aero is now certified to do C-check maintenance and are you getting any response? I have concluded a meeting with an airline and they desperately wanted us to move their aircraft in for maintenance immediately after ours, but I told them that we need to do two of our aircraft before we do for a third party. Yes, we will extend maintenance to other airlines and we will sensitise the airline industry that we have a solution for maintenance here. We want to have a one-stop shop for maintenance for the airlines in the country. So if your aircraft is due for C-check you bring it to us and we will look at your package and then give you a bill. After that we discuss; because we are in the airline business and we know that the airline business is very, very challenging, especially when you have limited resources. So we will work with your resources with a bank’s guarantee and make sure we deliver the C-check to you at reduced cost. We also have AJ Walters in our office so you can order spares from them and you can
order materials like consumables; you can order anything from them while you are with us. We also have South Africa Airways Technical and Ethiopia Airlines Maintenance in case there is any specialised service you might need. In future we are also looking at establishing a paint shop which will be located somewhere in the northern Nigeria. So that when we finish the maintenance of the aircraft we will fly it to the paint shop, let’s say in Kaduna and we paint the aircraft. Kaduna is conducive because it has the presence of Dornier in the 80s and 90s, where we have a lot of local talent. The environmental conditions in Kaduna are very good for painting so we do the painting there. We will establish proper hangar which is installed with extractors and possibly heaters; although Kaduna is a little bit hot. That will be the next phase of our MRO. Before now there are other maintenance facilities in Nigeria that carry out maintenance up to C-check? Let me make it very clear. When we were making this pronouncement that we are the first. We are actually the first to do C-check on the Boeing B737 Classic. We are not the first to do C-check in the country. We do Ccheck on light aircraft. We have been doing C-check on the Bombardier Dash-8 and I am sure Overland Airways has been doing C-check Continued on page 24
T H I S D AY Ëž Ëœ Í°ÍŽËœ Í°ÍŽÍŻÍľ
24
SANUSI: MAJOR AIRCRAFT MAINTENANCE LOCALLY IS GREAT FOR NIGERIA he could not assist us; the reason being that Nigeria is their market; that if they assist us they would lose jobs to our facility and may sack the 400 staff working in the company. “I am sorry, I like you but this is a strict business decision that I am making. We can assist you if you want to loan tools, but we won’t assist you to develop the capacity to do C-check because it will hurt our business,� he said. I took that as a challenge and I said, okay and I thanked him for his frankness. That was what made me to make up my mind that there was nothing that would stop us from upgrading the facility to C-check. We worked hard and worked day and night and finally got a company that helped us to do the extension and half way through the extension the company disclosed to us that they were the company that built the hangar in the first place. We experienced hurdles at every stage but we are grateful to NCAA. NCAA understood that there was need to have our own home grown MRO.
on its ATR aircraft series. So there have been so many maintenance facilities that have been doing C-check on smaller aircraft. But this is the first time in the history of this country that we are doing C-check on a B737 Classic. And Boeing 737 Classic is the main machine in the country and 90 percent of failures of airlines are because they could not afford to pay for C-check for the Classic airplane. So that is why we are talking so much about this maintenance. And look at it; every airline that is successful in the world started with its own maintenance organization, doing its own maintenance, trying to control cost ad some successful ones had seen that that maintenance can also be commercialised. This is the way Ethiopia Airlines did it, South Africa Airways, Royal Jordanian, Lufthansa, the British Airways and others. So most of these airlines started like that. That is the only way airlines can survive because I don’t have to fly my airplane to the US or Europe or Middle East to go and do maintenance when I can do it right here, at my door steps and control the cost. With this facility you can maintain all your aircraft from A to C check and you can only take them out when you want to do D-check? Yes, we can do all the C-checks here. There was even a time we contemplated bringing in our aircraft we sent out for maintenance, one in France and two in Jordan to do the C-check here by ourselves because it doesn’t make sense spending all those monies on them overseas but we realised that we have made a commitment. But that will be the last of our aircraft that we would sent out for C-check maintenance. Henceforth, others will be done here. Some of them have been there over a year. But we are completing some of the C-checks over there to bring them back to fly. With a maintenance facility up to the level of C-check how is it going to impact on your operations? In the recovery process of Aero Contractors, in the delicate recovery process that we embarked on when I came on board the airline management as CEO was with the objective to stabilise the airline’s operations to ensure we have some numbers of aircraft operating. And to do that we needed to inject funds so that we could either pay those MROs that have our airplanes and bring them back after maintenance and then fly those airplanes to stabilise our operations. But the amount those MRO facilities were asking was very high. So in the process we decided that it would be easier to take less than half of what we will pay an MRO outside Nigeria to do one C-check to invest it into our own facility and upgrade it to the standard of C-check. That was what we did and we discovered that we still needed cash so we had to look outside the box, did some creative thinking and came up with ways we could raise some funds. So, we extended the hangar. The extension of the hangar was not that expensive. We looked in-house to see how many personnel that we have. We wanted to know how many had worked on C-check and we noted the number of the staff and we checked it with the number we need. So we called some people whom we hitherto laid off back. Then we checked how many expatriates we needed. We looked at it, debated it and we brought in some expatriates. Some of the expatriates we contacted we told that our engagement with them would be on a call up basis. They will come and spend three to four days, do they job we want them to do and then go back. So, that was the methodology we used to achieve this. This will allow us have by the end of the year, three Boeing B737 flying. We will also have two Bombardier Dash-8 aircraft, making it a total of five aircraft by December. When we came in we had only one aircraft in operation. In fact, at a time we were almost having known. So that was how we stabilised the operation to three aircraft and started flying between two and three aircraft. So by December we should have five aircraft. So we will come into the market in the December period with five aircraft. With that we will make our presence felt. We are very confident that
What is the estimate of the money you could save for other airlines that would want to do their MRO here? They will save a lot. Normal C-check will cost about $1.6 million and if you add the cost of ferrying the aircraft it will come up to $1.8 to $2 million. So when you use a tow truck to tow you airplane to this place from wherever it is for C-check, you will also have the liberty, because we are going to have customers that will pay us through their banks, so the bank with guarantee can do payment arrangement with us. If we do C-check here in Nigeria it will save the airline at least about 30 percent of the cost of doing it overseas.
Sanusi
with this achievement of MRO the recovery process is on solid ground. We hope to bring Aero back to its former status, as one of the first three airlines in Nigeria. We are doing all that with minimal injection of funds. We looked inwards, looked at the assets that we have, saw which ones we could dispose of and then tried to put the proceed of the asset back into the business. Of course we have extremely dedicated staff. We have very experienced staff. I am grateful to them for all they have done to ensure we are still operating. What have you done in the helicopter area? When we came in we had one helicopter flying and we managed to make it. We are also
I have concluded a meeting with an airline and they desperately wanted us to move their aircraft in for maintenance immediately after ours, but I told them that we need to do two of our aircraft before we do for a third party.Yes, we will extend maintenance to other airlines and we will sensitise the airline industry that we have a solution for maintenance here. We want to have a one-stop shop for maintenance for the airlines in the country. So if your aircraft is due for C-check you bring it to us and we will look at your package and then give you a bill
in discussion with Augusta Helicopters, now called Leonardo. We are in discussion with them and we intend to bring one helicopter in on lease for the time being. We have stabilised the helicopter operation. We have about two contracts that are running and for the first time after all these we have put in a bid for three major oil and gas companies to provide them shuttle service. We are confident we will succeed in the bid because we have almost 58 years of experience and with the new relationship we have with Augusta Helicopters, we believe we will take it back up. I am confident that in the next 12 months there will be a lot of changes in the helicopter session. I believe that by the end of the year to the quarter of next year we will have brand new helicopters flying. We will have them on lease first and then start looking at purchase. So we will lease for three to five years, depending on the contract with the oil and gas companies. When I took over the first thing was to understand where the company is. For the first two to three weeks, we were brainstorming with the management team. This is a company that was under crisis because of the financial distress. We were having meetings on a daily basis with the management team and I said we could not continue to manage the crisis; we must have to chart a way forward on how to get out of the crisis and have recovery plan. That was when the idea from the management team came as one of the staff said, well we could do C-check and another said, we cannot do C-check and I said, if we can; why can’t we? That was when we started the whole idea of upgrading the maintenance facility to do C-check for Boeing Classics. I realised that the recovery processes depended on getting more airplanes and getting more airplanes depended on either paying for the C-check overseas or doing the C-check ourselves. And because we lack financial resources we must have to do it ourselves. That was how we moved on to the level we are today. When we wanted to extend the maintenance hangar, there was nobody to do it for us here, so we went to Europe and spoke to another MRO company. We told that company to assist us; that we wanted the extension of our hangar. The CEO of that company came to Nigeria and when he saw what we have, he said it was a brilliant idea; that his company was going to help us and would do everything to support us and said we should sign MoU. We signed MoU and he went back to Europe and on arrival he sent me email and said he was sorry
Do you think there has been progress in the airline business in the past one year? In terms of passenger movement I think that there was a slow down because of the economic recession. But, I think that is picking up. I see the aviation industry in this country as a potential market that has not been tapped. We have 180 million Nigerians. If you target 10 percent of that to travel by air; that is a big number by any standard. Do Nigerian airlines stand a chance? Yes, they stand a chance. But the problem is that we must address some basic infrastructural issues; some basic issues of charges. You know that notion, oh, we have been charging this before, I was guilty of it when I was in NAMA (the Managing Director of the Nigerian Airspace Management Agency), or that we have been doing this before so we should continue to do it. But the circumstances in which you had been doing it before is not the same circumstances in which you have been doing it now. So we should also be reviewing the charges. The issue of the prices of Jet A1 has to be reviewed because in the situation where you wake up you learn that they have increased the prices of Jet A1 by 30 percent. And you cannot quickly adjust your ticket prices to reflect that buy you have to buy that Jet A1 at the new prices in order to operate your flights that day; but the passengers have bought their tickets for that day’s flight at the old price. It is only in this country that this is done and I think that there must be a way of introducing the new price regime, recognising that we are in a free market and it is not regulated. This will help you to know the cost of your operation every month, as you know that the price of fuel will not change and if it will change they will notify you. I think the airlines should come together and pressurise the oil marketers so that they should do the right thing. So that it won’t be something you just wake up and they increase their prices of Jet A1. On the deficiency of infrastructure, even the pipelines that link the airport with Mosimi Depot, if it is revived it will reduce the cost of freighting and this will reflect in the cost of the product. It will also improve safety because all these tankers you see on the road are very dangerous. I believe the Nigerian airlines have a chance. But there is a lot more that needs to be done. I think that the way to go about it is to tackle infrastructural challenges and the charges. They should look into the problems of the parastatals. Are they over bloated? They should reduce the staff.
T H I S D AY FRIDAY OCTOBER 20 2017
25
26
T H I S D AY FRIDAY OCTOBER 20, 2017
WEEKLY PULLOUT
WEEKEND Acting Features Editor: Charles Ajunwa Email: charles.ajunwa@thisdaylive.com
LIVING | P31
COLLAGE | P36
THISLIFE | P37
IS THIS AFRICA’S BIGGEST FILM FESTIVAL?
FILE
ACTING EDITOR CHARLES AJUNWA / charles.ajunwa@thisdaylive.com
28/COVER
20.10.2017
Is This Africa’s Biggest Film Festival? Almost seven years after the first edition took place in Tinapa, Calabar, the Africa International Film Festival has become a cultural behemoth, drawing the attention of the world to mankind’s original continent, writes Solomon Elusoji
Chioma Ude, the woman behind the festival
This year, in January, the French Government invited Chioma Ude to France, to discuss film. She met with key people in the country's Foreign Affairs Department and struck sweet deals that could change the face of filmmaking in Africa. "I had good talks there," she told this reporter. Ironically, Ude is not a filmmaker. She does not haul huge cameras across movie sets or shout instructions to slacking actors or owe banks huge sum of money for a flop at the box office. She is the Founder and Executive Director of the Africa International Film Festival (AFRIFF), a celebration of filmmaking and filmmaking talent on the continent. Ude's expertise, she told this reporter, is in raising money for filmmakers and setting them free to push the boundaries of their creative powers to tell Africa's most important stories. "You have to find what gives you joy, and for me this is it," she said. This year, AFRIFF, which is scheduled to run from October 29 to November 4 in Lagos, has reached significant agreements with the French and British Governments to promote film diversity and development in the country. And the American Government has also shown rabid interest in partnering with the festival. The French Government, acting through its Consul in Lagos, is set to screen five French films at the upcoming festival for two days. “The importance of AFRIFF, that is growing year after year, is a wonderful showcase for us,” the French Consul General, Lagos, Mr. Laurent Polonceaux, said, while describing AFRIFF as “one of the most important film festivals in Africa.” Also, the British Government, acting through the British Council, its foreign agency for cultural relations and educational opportunities is bringing London’s British Film Institute (BFI) into a new partnership with AFRIFF. Tagged ‘Film Connections’, the partnership also aims to share knowledge and boost coproduction opportunities between filmmakers from Nigeria and the United Kingdom. "AFRIFF is a laudable idea and it is gradually becoming one of the biggest international film festivals on the continent," a filmmaker, Patrick Uduak-Obong, told this reporter. "The festival's growth has been steady and every year it gets more interesting." "These international partnerships mean more opportunities, more exposure; and that’s what the film industry needs now, to be able to showcase their work beyond the shores of Nigeria," Uduak-Obong added. "I’m also hoping that this partnerships will set the stage for the enacting of policies that will help the industry grow faster." A film critic, Ife Olujuyigbe, attended the festival in 2016 and was awed by the variety of personalities on display. "I saw people from
L-R: Founder AFRIFF Chioma Ude, Minister of Information and Culture, Alhaji Lai Mohammed and veteran actor, Richard Mofe-Damijo...Every year, the festival plays host to heavyweights in Nigeria's entertainment industry
the United States, from Egypt and from other parts of the African continent," she said. This sort of initiative "helps filmmakers connect beyond film sets and accidental bumpings-into". Teach us how to do cinema, sir For decades, African cinema has been under fire for producing low quality movies, compared to its western counterparts. The huge chunk of this criticism is directed towards Nollywood, Nigeria's film industry and the major supplier of African cinema content. In 2010, the BBC questioned whether Nollywood was destroying Africa's young film industry with its mass production of low quality content. However, in recent times, with the advent of festivals like AFRIFF, that narrative is changing. One of AFRIFF's most significant contributions to the film industry has been the creation of a quality talent pool. Every year, the festival trains hundreds of students in various aspects of film making and frequently sponsors its students to foreign schools for world class skill development. In 2013, Oto Obong Ekpenyong was at that year's AFRIFF in Calabar, where he attended a training on Sound for Film. The next year, he was at the festival, again, to learn Cinematography. In 2015, Ekpenyong attended a Documentary Filmmaking workshop at Montana State University (MSU), courtesy of AFRIFF and Ford Foundation. "The experience of each has been, in one word, empowering," Ekpenyong told this reporter. Ekpenyong is currently working on his
debut film project - a social and human interest documentary with a social justice. The published first phase of the project is currently doing festival rounds and premiered at Silicon Valley African Film Festival (SVAFF) 2017 in California. It has also been officially selected to screen at this year's AFRIFF in Lagos. "I have said this elsewhere before and it bears repeating here: if the filmmaking community is going to produce compelling documentaries, then the requisite genrespecific trainings, such as AFRIFF/MSU Social Justice Documentary Filmmaking workshop, should be provided," Ekpenyong said. "As for the festival as a whole, AFRIFF has been one of the most important film festivals in the continent that champions and celebrates African cinema. And yes it is fantastic for film in Africa not only because of the cinematic experience, film business networking, industry sessions, masterclasses and workshops it programmes but also for the cultural collaborations it fosters." For Jennifer Nkem-Eneanya, the AFRIFF screenwriting masterclass facilitated by Tunde Babalola in November 2016 was an eye-opening experience into not just the art, but the business of screenwriting. “We had a week long expose into the inner workings of the Nigerian film industry for writers and received valuable tips and advice on how to grow and succeed in the industry,” she said. “In addition, we evaluated screenplays and movies and learned the international best practises for screenwriters as well as the use of screenwriting software. Our facilitator
AFRIFF has helped to improve the quality of filmmaking in Africa
was candid about the challenges he faced but upbeat about our chances of soaring in the industry while armed with the right knowledge which AFRIFF was providing for us free of charge.” A screenplay Nkem-Eneanya started in class – ‘For My Girls – has now been produced and is currently attracting rave reviews. “AFRIFF is a great push for Nollywood and for the film industry in Africa,” she told this reporter. “While it showcases different calibre of filmmakers and films from shorts to animations, it also invests in talent development of budding writers, actors and filmmakers and fills a void which no other organisation has sufficiently provided for. In addition, it provides a trustworthy platform for investors to connect with filmmakers on a global level. Several first-time filmmakers have made their festival debut at AFRIFF and it affords everyone the opportunity to stand on a level playing ground irrespective of years of experience and film budgets. AFRIFF celebrates excellent filmmaking without recourse to gender, age or clout.” Raising the bar The Pan-african Film and Television Festival of Ouagadougou (Festival panafricain du cinéma et de la télévision de Ouagadougou or FESPACO) is a film festival in Burkina Faso, held biennially in Ouagadougou. It accepts for competition only films by African filmmakers and is regarded, by many, as the oldest and biggest film festival for French-speaking Africa. For English-speaking Africa, however, AFRIFF, arguably, is the destination for a premier celebration of film. Founded in 2010, AFRIFF has grown in leaps and bounds, strengthening its position with each edition. The size and reach of Nollywood, undoubtedly, helps its cause: it is impossible to break into African cinema without coming to Nigeria. "We’ve grown so fast because we’ve been consistent," Ude said. "And Nollywood is about 70 per cent of African cinema, so this is the hub of film in Africa. This means that the energy has to be different." This year, the festival has reduced the size of its competition categories to increase competitiveness. The breadth of film selections has also expanded. In the feature film category, only three out of 15 films are Nigerians. "Most Nigerian filmmakers now know that to get into AFRIFF's competition category, you have to strategically position your film in certain ways," Ikenna Ezenyirioha, the guy who oversees AFRIFF's programming, told this reporter. So the bar keeps rising for AFRIFF. It is not amiss to assume that the festival, in terms of its impact on the continent, is its own sole competition.
29/XTRA
20.10.2017
A Brother’s Pains After the painful experience of losing his beloved brother to diabetes, a disease he felt could have been well managed if they had adequate knowledge of the ailment, Tope Tosin Owolabi decided to embark on a radical and massive awareness on this silent killer disease and this occasioned the establishment of the Babatunde Femi Owolabi Memorial Heart Foundation many years back. Named after his late brother, the foundation is dedicated to leading the fight against cardiovascular diseases and related conditions with an objective to give Nigerians opportunity to know their health status and to educate them on how to prevent these diseases bearing in mind that ignorance, poverty and lack of periodic medical check-up are some of the factors that aggravate cardiovascular diseases. Mary Ekah writes on the Foundation’s recent attempt to further spread the gospel The Babatunde Femi Owolabi (BFO) Memorial Heart Foundation saves lives and improves health through its awareness campaign of the dangers of undetected heart related issues and provides free medical screening for all. In the previous year, the Foundation provided medical screening for over 250 participants during a free screening exercise conducted in Ado Ekiti, Ekiti State. Over the years, it has helped to increase the number of people who know their health status in Nigeria and has hopefully reduced the number of deaths as a result of heart diseases. Despite its efforts to reduce the incidence of heart diseases in Nigeria, cardiovascular disease which include heart attack, stroke and blood vessel disease, remains one of Nigeria’s most devastating health problems. Not relenting in its efforts, the foundation felt there was need to still spread more information on these killer diseases and so during its annual workshop this year, it decided to take its struggles to educate Nigerians on cardiovascular diseases to another level by appointing ambassadors to carry on with the Foundation’s core message of educating the masses and saving lives through its ‘Save a Heart Initiative’, where students were asked to write essays about heart disease and winners of the competition were picked as the Foundation’s ambassadors. The Founder, BFO Foundation, Mr. Tope Owolabi, who said the Foundation was established out of conviction that there was an urgent need to re-orientate Nigerians on the undesirable effects of cardiovascular diseases, revealed that the disease had in the past affected some members of his family. “We didn’t want other Nigerians to go through what we have gone through in my family. I lost a brother of mine to diabetes, which is a form of cardiovascular diseases. I discovered that this could have been taken care of if we had good knowledge of the disease beforehand. I realised that having diabetes is not a death sentence as many may think all because in this part of the world, people are not well educated on cardiovascular diseases. Losing a brother that is very dear to me was so heartbroken; it was not just losing a brother but a breadwinner who had a wife and children and other extended family members. It was more devastating to realise that we lost him to a disease that could have been managed if there was more education and awareness,” he recalled. So with this at the back of his mind, Owolabi decided to embark on aggressive campaign to change people’s mind-sets, especially in Nigeria and Africa as a whole, on how they observe their health without taking the slightest things for granted. “So what we are trying to do with this Foundation is to educate people massively on various causes of heart diseases. And so we hold seminars regularly at the grassroots levels to educate people on the implication of living with heart disease and what they can do to prevent it and ultimately to save a life, which is our eventual goal. Right now we have over 50 volunteers moving around villages and towns creating awareness in order to increase the consciousness level,” he noted further. Owolabi, who resides abroad, revealed that he was in the country last March during which he held awareness campaign in six different communities reaching out to over 3,000 people in various parts of Nigeria. This time the Foundation, he said, has come up with the “Save a Heart Initiative.” With this initiative, the Foundation has embarked
BFO Founder, Mr Owolabi, presenting a certificate to one of newly appointed ambassadors while being assisted by another guest at the event
A cross section of students and resource persons at the BFO Foundation seminar held in Lagos
Participants listening with rapt attention during the BFO Foundation seminar in Lagos
on campaigns in schools where ambassadors are picked to propagate the message. In the last five years, Owolabi has run the foundation with his personal funds but this time he needs huge supports. He therefore appealed fervently to Nigerians to join hands and fight cardiovascular diseases, which has taken away so many productive lives. Owolabi, who has been working as a technician for seven year now in Atlanta, Georgia, where he lives, said: “This is my own way of giving back to society and saving lives. Right now, the Foundation’s activities are becoming bigger and bigger and have gotten to a stage where I can no longer do it alone. That is why we I am appealing to individuals and groups to join us in this crusade. I work in Atlanta where I live and I have a limited income to carry out these activities.” Explaining the modalities for the competition
from which the Foundation’s new ambassadors emerged, a board member of the Foundation, Maero Ozako, said, “We knew he has been working in the hinterland, but he needed to bring the message to the city where there is a high incidence of cardiovascular diseases and that was how the idea of ‘Save a Heart Initiative’ came up and what we did was to come up with the idea of running an essay competition with the topic, ‘Nurturing Your Heart in Modern Day Nigeria’. And from the numerous essays written by the students, we chose a few who had the best articles to be the BFO Foundation ambassadors. Now, the task is very simple. They are to go out there, talk and convert people, telling them to change the way they eat, which is very important.” Some of the newly appointed ambassadors spoke with THISDAY. For Anjola Ajayi, a Year 12 student of Chrisland High School, VGC, being
an ambassador means she is a representative of the BFO Foundation everywhere she goes. “That means I have to learn more about hypertension, diabetes, and about all the cardiovascular diseases so that I can help and educate others on the best way to avoid having heart disease and also how to manage it if they occur,” she said. On her role as an ambassador of the Foundation, she said, “I will start from my school, educating students on the basic information they need pertaining to this disease and I will also talk to my parents to spread the information at their places of work and that if they want to have some kind of seminar, I will come and represent the Foundation where I would talk about heart disease, causes and prevention.” Another ambassador, Favour Nkemkah, a 15 years old student from Chrisland High Shool, Ikeja, said, “I am proud to be an ambassador of the BFO Foundation and I promise to do my best in enlightening people on how to care for themselves and also live a healthy lifestyle in order to avoid developing any form of heart disease.” Speaking on what inspired her interest in the competition, she said, “Looking at my surroundings here, I realised that there were people with different shapes and sizes – from the very skinny to the very obese, some of whom might be susceptible to heart diseases and so I thought the best way to educate them on healthy living was to enlighten them on how they can take preventive measures on heart diseases.” President–elect, Medical Women Association of Nigeria, Lagos State Chapter and guest speaker at the event, Dr. Omowunmi Bakare, during her talk, enumerated the various kinds of heart diseases, the risk factors and basically what can be done to curtail or prevent occurrence of any form of heart disease. She said: “Some of these heart diseases are modifiable while some are non-modifiable. The non-modifiable is the fact that you cannot change your gender, the fact that you are born to a particular race and you cannot change that. The modifiable ones are ones that we have choices to make in respect of what we eat. We need to make healthy choices for us to have healthy hearts and we also need to do some form of exercises at least 30 minutes a day and five times in a week to help our hearts to be in good shape. We also need to check our blood pressure regularly and you also need to check your blood glucose from time to time especially when you are above 40, you need to do regular and comprehensive check-ups. And if you smoke, you also need to stop because these are risk factors for cardiovascular disease and you need to ensure that you reduce alcoholic consumptions. These are choices that we can make that can reduce our chances of being prone to heart diseases. “So basically what we have done here today, is to create awareness among the children because as ambassadors of cardiovascular health, we see them as change agents and our eating habits are formed from our young age and as we get older we get used to all these habits of feeding. So, as early as possible, we want them to start inculcating correct and healthy eating habits. Once they are able to do this, they can go to their communities, friends and families and advocate that things are done properly, make healthy choices, eat foods that are more of vegetable, do a lot of exercise, reduce alcohol consumption, and don’t smoke and so on. The basic message we pass here is that as change agents, they can make a lot of changes in their communities and the society at large.”
30/ NEWS
20.10.2017
Renowned Global Evangelist, Bonnke to Storm Nigeria for Farewell Crusade Mary Ekah Reverend Reeinhard Bonnke, renowned global evangelist of repute will storm the shores of Nigeria for a five-day goodbye crusade that will unleashed the power of God on Nigeria and liberate it from its very present predicaments, which is eating deep into its socio-economic and spiritual potentials. The crusade said to be a mission to making Nigeria and Africa a better place, its organisers, Christ for All Nation (CfaN), said aims to reach out to more than 30 million Nigerians with the gospel with at least 10 million people attending the crusade every day and submitting to the majesty of the gospel of Jesus Christ. Speaking at world press conference in Lagos, the Chairman Central Working Committee for Reinhard Bonnke’s Farewell Crusade 2017, Apostle Alexander Bamgbola said participants from the neighbouring countries like Ghana, Cameroun, Togo, Benin, Mali, amongst others are expected to attend the crusade which is billed to hold from Wednesday, November 8th to Sunday, November 12th at Besides Sparkling
Reeinhard Bonnke
Estate, Isheri, Lagos from 4.30 pm daily. The Farewell Crusade, Bamgbola said will be complemented by a major side-line event tagged, “Passing the Burning Torch” conference where hundreds of thousands of willing ministers of God in Africa are expected to catch the Bonnke’s fire for
greater exploits, adding, “Those who are conversant with the Holy Bible know that prophet Elisha did greater exploits for God after he got a double portion of prophet Elijah’s anointing by prayerfully taking the Burning Torch from Elijah.” He explained further that Bonnke’s choice to stage a comeback to Nigeria crusade in the final lap of his large-sale global evangelism outreach is God-ordained and will therefore be explosive, adding that, “The last time he visited this country was eight years ago and many today could attest to the glorious work that God Almighty used him to do in the lives of Nigerians. This time around Evangelist Bonnke led by God says God there is healing for Nigeria, a country currently plagued by socio-economic corruption and spiritual pollution. He had said many times in the past that this country has great potentials but was being held down by demonic forces militating against it. The result is what we see as social voices that have held down economic growth, inflation has remained high at double digit, just as unemployment rate ensures that more than 29 million employable youths remain jobless.”
Adewole, Ambode, Others for Nollywood Health and Entertainment Summit 2017 All is set for this year’s edition of the annual Nollywood Health and Entertainment Summit (NHAES) 2017, billed for Saturday, October 28, at the Banquet Hall of the National Theatre, Iganmu, Lagos. Speaking at a press conference, the founder and national president of NHAES, Mr. Victor Osuagwu, gave more insights about what to expect at the forthcoming event. “The honourable minister of health, Prof. Isaac Adewole is the special guest of honour at this historic event and he has assured us of his esteemed presence. Also, the Lagos State governor, Akinwunmi Ambode is coming as our chief host. We are equally expecting several dignitaries from different walks of life. And we are ready to welcome and entertain all of them at the event”, Osuagwu stated. Shedding more light on tge forthcoming event, Osuagwu, an accomplished actor and seasoned entertainer, disclosed that NHAES is an annual event that brings together popular Nollywood actors, celebrities, stakeholders in the health and wellness sectors, NGOs and the general public for health awareness and sensitization. With a very carefully selected 2017 theme of “Live to Reap: Fight Against Cancer”, in line with WHO 2017 Theme – Breast Cancer, this grand event, according to Osuagwu promises to be huge, memorable, rewarding, exciting, refreshing, reinvigorating, splendid and star-studded. He also appealed to Nigerians, especially those who cherish their health not to miss the summit, adding that over 1000 guests and celebrities are
Nollywood actor and convener of Nollywood Health and Entertainment Summit, Mr. Victor Osuagwu and the Miniser of Health, Prof. Isaac Adewole during the former's visit to the Minister in Abuja... recently
expected. Osuagwu, a theatre arts graduate of the University of Port Harcourt, Rivers State, maintained that this historic event coming up on October 28, won’t be attended by only Nollywood practitioners. The immediate past chairman of the Lagos State Actors Guild, said they would be reaching out to the larger society, especially decision makers in the polity. “We need their helping hands and loud voices to make this summit very successful. Therefore, we are inviting and reaching out to government and top government officials and agencies. Also on our radar are NGOs and stakeholders in the health sectors. Members and partners of relevant
health care societies. Even health insurance companies and fitness and aerobics experts are invited alongside celebrities and the general public. And of course, interested sponsors, corporate bodies, funding partners and foreign collaborators are all expected to grace this historic summit that is now the talk of the town,” he noted. A part of the many activities heralding this great event, NHAES will be having a Walk for Life road show on Thursday, October 26. “This milestone walk/exercise will be done in partnership with the Actors Guild of Nigeria, other guilds in Nollywood and our partners in the health sector. Let us not forget the age long maxim that: Health Is Wealth.
Dunlop Expands Its Nigerian Footprint, Opens Victoria Island Store Sumitomo Rubber South Africa (PTY) Limited (SRSA) in partnership with Tyre Express Nigeria Limited flagged off its Dunlop Zone store in Victoria Island, Lagos Nigeria recently. The opening of this store speaks directly to SRSA Africa expansion strategy which sees them focusing on key African countries with great growth potential and expanding markets. In Nigeria, SRSA has already opened four stores in Lagos, through our partnerships with our distributor. With the city’s population estimated at 21 million, this store is strategically located to service a range of customer needs including and not limited to ancillary services such as balancing, alignment, brakes, batteries, shock absorbers, exhausts and tow bars. Through market engagements based on SRSA’s success in various distribution channels, they have introduced the Tyre
Dunlop
Retail model to the African continent. Tyre retail in Nigeria is a maturing industry with growing potential, there is huge scope for organized retail sector with the growing
numbers of vehicles particularly in the SUV market. Customers are seeking a better shopping experience- that comes with a formalized retail store. “We are taking a long-term investment approach to this partnership, and have therefore made sure that we do not cut any corners. The Tyre Express we are opening in partnership with SRSA is of global standards and I am confident that it would stand high against any others in the world”, said Jaber Abbas, MD of Tyres Express Nigeria. Riaz Haffejee CEO of Sumitomo said “It is our vision and aim to enhance the safety for all road users, and reduce the risk of accidents and loss of lives on the road. Motorists must be given readily-accessible choice of high quality new tyres at affordable prices to ensure the right product, is on the right vehicle and fits the right terrain.”
Grace Life Event to Tackle Sexual Abuse
Grace Life Events founder, Debbie Enenmoh (middle) flanked by Oluwatosin Akinloye of Cece Yara Foundation (left) and moderator of the press conference, Justina Oha
Several organisations in Nigerian have been in the forefront of tackling sexual abuse which has become so rampant in recent time. Despite the so much effort put to curtail its occurrence, recent high profile cases of sexual abuse in our society have shown that we need to get better at tackling the menace. It’s a crime that happens in every corner of our country, affecting children, particularly and adult from all walks of life, ethnicities, cultures and classes. It robs children their childhoods and tears families apart. The experiences relayed by victims every other day, are truly horrific. But, for a crime which has such a devastating effect on its victims and their loved-ones, there is still so much we need to do to tackle sexual abuse and how to prevent it from happening in the first place. It is in line with this that Grace Life Event, a Christian-based event management company, is putting together a workshop tagged, ‘Real Issues: Sexual Abuse Workshop’. Speaking at a press conference in Lagos to announce the upcoming event billed to hold on Saturday, October 21 at the Grace Event Centre, Lekki, Lagos, on the upcoming workshop the founder, Grace Life Event, Mrs. Debbie Enenmoh said one way for women to protect their children from sexual abuse, is education. While providing details on the workshop, Enenmoh said the event was targeting the vulnerable people in the society who do not have voices. “We are targeting the vulnerable people in the society to talk about issues of sexual abuse,” she said, stating further that children are already getting involved in sexual abuses against themselves. “Sometimes children are getting involved in the child to child abuse. This initiative is talking about sexual abuse, domestic violence and related issues. We have to do something to protect our children. We are going to be focusing on sexual abuse at the event,” she said.
National Point Turns 10 In line with its corporate mission to highlight the environmental and socio-economic issues confronting the Niger Delta region, National Point newspaper is organising an annual public lecture and public presentation of books as part of activities marking its 10th anniversary. A statement signed by the Executive Director of the Port- Harcourt based weekly, Ms Ibiba Don Pedro, noted that the lecture with the theme: ‘Niger Delta Next Decade: Away with Oil, a Way from Oil’, will examine burning issues facing the oil-rich but beleaguered region. These include youth restiveness, a future without oil, environmental degradation, gas flaring which lead to diseases such as cancer, cardiovascular ailments besides the devastating effects on livelihoods, businesses, social life among others. "We believe strongly that there's a need to continuously bring these issues to the public sphere so they can be tackled with the urgency they deserve. In a few decades, oil will become irrelevant as a commodity so what happens to the Niger Delta's environment then that has been despoiled by over six decades of oil exploitation and exploration activities? The region will require billions of dollars for its clean-up. Where's this money going to come from? These are some of the issues we need to address urgently,” she stated. On the newspaper, she disclosed that National Point was set up in 2007, by a small group of activists and public interest journalists to professionally manage the newspaper with a vision to provide robust reporting of Niger Delta /South-south persons, places and issues. Besides the anniversary event /awards /First Annual Lecture holding in Port Harcourt on 23rd November, 2017, there's also a public presentation of Books/Discussion in Lagos on October 26, 2017 at the Lagos Country Club, GRA, Ikeja and the launch of the Niger Delta Women International Resource and Development Centre project scheduled for unveiling at the award ceremony.
31/LIVING
20.10.2017
Over 1, 000 Pageants for Queen Moremi Ajasoro 2017 Auditions After weeks of going through the thousands of applications received for this year’s edition of the Queen Moremi Ajasoro (QMA) Beauty Pageant, all is now set for the series of auditions with over 1, 000 beauty queens penciled down for selection to feature in the grand finale. According to the Ambassador of Queen Moremi Legacy, Princess Ronke Ademiluyi, who is coordinating this second edition of the beauty contest initiated by the Ooni Ife, Oba Adeyeye Enitan Ogunwusi Ojaja II, as part of activities to preserve and promote the legacies of the legendary Ife queen, the cultural beauty contest, is now in its final lap with the release of the auditions dates. “All auditions for QMA Nigeria 2017 will take place from Monday October 30 to
Wednesday November 1, 2017 at the Kings Palace in Enuwa, Ile Ife, Osun State, Nigeria,” disclosed Ademiluyi, who is also the Founder of Nigeria Fashion Week Lagos and London. “All registrants are required to come to Ife for a chance to win N5m investment fund, they must be prepared to travel to Ife for one day audition only,” she added. She explained that contestants for the coveted crown would be given dates for auditioning in accordance with their registration. This year’s audition will take a new shape as it will entail such sections as a two hour QMA Women Mentorship programme powered by the House of Oduduwa Foundation in collaboration with the International Women's Society. Besides the N5 million investment fund,
winner of the beauty pageant, which grand finale is billed for Lagos in November, will also be an ambassador of the Ooni, as she will accompany the royal father on his trips and events in and outside the country while she is also expected to carry herself with dignity and expose the characters and legacies of QMA in both her candour and public outings. Ademiluyi promised the contestants a good time at Ife as she informed that all logistics for a successful and eventful audition sessions have been put in place while advising the beauty queens to travel with all that they would require to contest for the crown, insisting that only the best and worthy queens both in character and learning, who meet with the high standard of the competition would scale the hurdle.
Dokun
RCCG’s Rehabilitation Centre Gives Succour to Drug Victims Succour has come the way of youths who suffer substance abuse with the inauguration of Enoch and Folu Adeboye Rehabilitation Centre at Araga, Epe, Lagos State. The Centre is an initiative of the First Born Family of the Redeemed Christian Church of God which later metamorphosed into Christ Against Drug Abuse Ministry (CADAM). The project was majorly funded by Pastor Enoch Adeboye and Pastor (Mrs.) Folu Adeboye. While unveiling the Centre, Governor Akinwunmi Ambode, assisted by top notch of the Church including Mrs. Folu Adeboye, who doubles as the Matron of the Home, lauded the initiative of the First Born Family, noting that it will go a long way in complimenting efforts of the state government to eradicate crime in the society and make the state safe for the citizens. Explaining the rationale for the home which has produced numerous graduates who have made impacts in various fields, Mrs. Adeboye said it
Governor Ambode flanked by Pastor Oyitso and others, during the commissioning of the Centre
would serve as a centre of transformation for youths who suffer substance abuse and seeking new life. According to her, the Centre which
started its journey in 1991 has treated about 2,000 beneficiaries with about 70 per cent of them living drug free, independent and productive
FGGC Sagamu 1986 Alumni Visit to Their Alma Mata On October 2, 2017, the 1986 Alumni of the Federal Government Girls’ College, Sagamu, Ogun State, were at the school premises to donate 31 academic and non-academic awards to the students (commensurate to the year of graduation from the school). The donation was in line with their theme ‘Giving Back to their Roots’, an annual contribution to their Alma Mata which they commenced in 2015. The pupils were reminded that they all had one thing in common which was to succeed in life. They were encouraged to take full advantage of the opportunity given to them to study at FGGC Sagamu, acquire knowledge and graduate with outstanding grades. In support of a beautiful and ever greener environment, the old students planted flowers on the school premises on the same day and donated over 100 recommended eye glasses to the pupils following the conclusion of eye tests. Gifts were also presented to the staff in recognition of their assiduous effort to ensure that the
A cross section of graduates from the Ethiopian Aviation Academy
students excel academically. Projects completed by the 1986 old girls in 2016 included the ceiling and painting of the school’s chapel and sinking of a water borehole near the classrooms. Numerous awards were
also given to the pupils including a scholarship award to a JSS pupil. Emeritus awards were issued by Mrs. Babalola (nee Maduagwu), Pa Adubifa, Mrs. Ayoola – the First Principal of the school and Late Pa Oyewole.
Honeywell Tasks Youths on Skill Development Honeywell Flour Mills Plc has tasked the youths to channel their skills and energy to ventures that will be productive to them and the society. This, the company noted, will go a long way in solving social vices and make them have a direction to realise a dream by building a career. Managing Director, Mr. Lanre Jaiyeola who stated this in Lagos during a youth-based basketball programme organised by former world star, Olumide Ayodeji, noted that the company will continue to focus its corporate social responsibility on activities that promote skill development among youth in realising the importance of that age group to the nation’s socio-economic development. Jaiyeola, represented by Team Lead, Activation, Mr. Olufemi Adebayo said “at Honeywell Flour Mills, we are socially responsible organisation. We support good causes, especially causes that have to do with children. The company will try to support any good cause within our available resources, laudable causes that can take our country forward, help to develop our children
Ayodeji (left), Adebayo (middle) with some of the youth
in the area of sports, in academics,” he said. Besides, he said in efforts to make the society feel the company’s impacts, “we have made basketball a choice, not just to discover talents,
but also to build talents. Beyond that, it is also to remove the youths from the streets, from social vices and make them have a direction to realize a dream by building a career.”
lives in various professions and vocations all over the world. “Today, we have both formal and informal relationships with about 12 Nigerian universities that send their students to us for the programme and readmit them to continue and complete their education upon our certification,” she said. Head of First Born Family, Pastor Brown Oyitso lamented that substance abuse has become a scourge in the society, saying the latest project is the church’s response through its Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) platform to arrest the malaise. Oyitso, who doubles as Pastor In Charge of Region 19 and Personal Assistant Missions to the General Overseer, said The First Born Family (Ikeja) has been very involved in CSR endeavours since Pastor E.A. Adeboye instructed all the pastors of the church to get involved in it as a way of giving back to society as a whole and to the neighbourhoods in which their parishes are located.
Faculty of Sciences, ESUST Alumni Celebrates 32 Years Come Thursday, October 26, the Faculty of Management Sciences of Enugu State University of Science and Technology, will be celebrating a 32 year Alumni homecoming and reunion. This is all in a bid to celebrate some outstanding Alumni for their commendable achievements and various contributions to society in general, This event which comes up in Enugu under the chairmanship of the President General of Ohaneze Ndigbo worldwide, Chief Nnia Nwodo, will feature awards to the Enugu State governor, Chief Ifeanyi Ugwuanyi, Enugu State Speaker, Chief Edward Ubosi, Managing Director of Fidelity Bank PLc, Mr. Nnamdi Okonkwo, as well as other leaders and technocrats. Speaking at the occasion will be His Excellency Dr. Ike Ekweremadu, Deputy President of the Senate and Dr. Ernest Ebi, Chairman Board of Directors, Fidelity Bank PLc. According to the Dean, Faculty of Management Sciences, Prof. Fred Eze, the Faculty of Management Sciences established in 1985, houses the departments of Accountancy, Banking and Finance, Business Administration, Co-operatives and Rural Development, Insurance and Risk Management, Marketing, Public Administration and Mass Communication. He went further to state that in 32 years of existence, the faculty has produced leaders in top echelons of government and managers who occupy strategic positions in both the private and public sectors of the Nigerian economy. Prof. Ike Ndolo, Chairman of the Homecoming and Reunion Committee, stated that the whole idea of a homecoming, is to primarily celebrate the Alumni in their various capacities and investments in national development, offer the Alumni the opportunity of a reunion with each other and also reconnect with the university from where they earned their fruits, under the leadership of Prof. Luke Okechukwu Anike, Vice Chancellor and Chief Host.
32 / XTRA
20.10.2017
Obaze: Why I Want to be the Governor of Anambra Mr. Oseloka Henry Obaze, the Peoples Democratic Party’s candidate for the governorship elections in Anambra State in this interaction with Peter Uzoho, speaks on the essence of governance, his programme of action for the people of Anambra and the imperatives for commitment, integrity and a rounded knowledge base in the conduct and management of public affairs
Obaze
Sir, you have come a long way since you left the Ministry of Foreign Affairs for the UN headquarters in New York and back to Nigeria to serve as Secretary to Anambra State Government under two administrations. Why really do you want to become governor? In the first instance, it is my constitutional right as a sound Nigerian citizen and an indigene of our dear Anambra State to run for public office. More importantly, I am confident that I am eminently qualified and able – in all ramifications to serve as governor of the state and perform much better than the sad experience we have had in the last three years or so. Aside from my world-view, my service as Secretary to Anambra State Government – particularly in the administration of Mr. Peter Obi afforded me the opportunity to contribute to the welfare of my people. Outside my work in the office, I was also in the field on special assignments that took me through bushes, mud and floods to provide relief and rehabilitation to communities in distress. In my schedules, I steadily appreciate that public service should really be directed at people, communities and organisations that need it. It should not be an elite obsession with the flamboyance of undue protocols, sirens, motorcades, wild parties and so on. Having been chosen by our great party, the PDP, I am offering myself for service in the knowledge that I have a programme of action that would elevate the state and our people economically, socially and politically. What is your programme of action and how is it different from those of other governorship candidates? The programme of action is statement of
intent, which is also expected to have been well thought-out by the candidate and his team. There is also the issue of commitment to its implementation when you get into office. On Inauguration day – as happened for this out-going administration – we heard all kinds of “We will do this, we will do that, including a far-fetched unrealistic boast to build three independent power plants” and so on; but what we have experienced are unfulfilled promises and deception that have undermined the aspirations and progress of the people. Like was successfully and commendably done with the MDGs by the administration of Mr. Peter Obi of which I was a part, my programme of action is encapsulated within the framework of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). These basically cover all aspects of human and societal development – at the micro and macro levels including agriculture, commerce and industry, education, health, security, infrastructure, among others. These are feasible and realisable objectives. You are reputed to have facilitated access by some Nigerian Government agencies the support from development partners. Do you propose to do same for Anambra if elected governor? The world is increasingly assuming the character of a global village where best practices determine who makes the most progress and stays ahead of others. If I am elected governor, I will leverage on my international contacts and goodwill to attract varied international support for our programmes and projects. You will recall that during the tenure of Mr. Peter Obi, several development partners and donor agencies shoed active interest in the state’s development model – Anambra Integrated Development Strategy (ANIDS), which ensured simultaneous development in
all critical sectors of the economy and society. Beyond the international arena, I will explore and pursue collaborative ventures with the federal and other state governments for the public and private sectors alike. My administration will not be restricted to the public sector, but extend to supporting the private sector to grow and develop. In the final analysis, the public and private sectors involve Anambrarians one way or the other. The election campaigns of some candidates give the impression there is a kind of war ahead. Are you not worried that things may get nasty? It is a shame that a few of the candidates and their parties are fighting dirty, which does no credit to our state and people at large. For me it is not a do-or-die affair even as I hope and expect to win in a free and fair election. Of course, I am worried about the ugly trend in some quarters of trying to run me down with outright falsehoods and subterfuges that only serve to smear them further. On the issue of security, I believe the relevant agencies are on ground to check mischief-makers and their sponsors. Even then, haven’t you pondered whether you should have stayed abroad? As a human being, you occasionally reflect on the choices you have made in life and whether they have been worth it. Clearly, my tenure in the United Nations system had its compensations, but life is not all about material fulfillment. I am certain that I made the right choice in accepting the invitation of a patriotic Anambrarian and Nigerian – Peter Obi – to return home to serve the people. How would you assess your main rivals
in the forth coming election? Do you really think you can defeat them, especially the incumbent governor? My rivals are first and foremost indigenes of Anambra State who have been selected – rightly or wrongly – by their political parties to run for the post of governor. Of course, my assessment of them cannot be pleasing to them, but I am aware that I can perform better than them as governor of our dear state, Anambra. As an experienced technocrat, I do not engage in any pursuit with the thought that it would fail. In the same vein, I am not in the race as a ‘Fall Guy”, in the hope of being compensated with an appointment or contract by the eventual winner. Be that as it may, election is a process involving a combination of factors, most important of which are the people – the electorate. It is my expectation that they would see through each of the candidates – particularly the incumbent – and make an informed decision on Election Day – November 18, which interestingly, is the birth date of our revered Dr. Nnamdi Azikiwe. In the final analysis, what is your vision for Anambra State? Anambra State possesses a wide range of potentials – in human and material resources which can only be successfully explored and exploited by men and women of integrity and clear purpose for the benefit of the people. I will not just lazy around awaiting the next allocation from the Federation Account, but re-energise our people and institutions to our famed vibrancy in resourcefulness, entrepreneurship, scholarship, administration and management. I am confident the people will make an informed choice of who can and will guide them to meaningful and sustainable progress.
33/XTRA
20.10.2017
Lawmaker Laments Non Passage of NTCA Act Solomon Elusoji and Ugo Aliogo The Chairman, House Committee on Information, Hon. Odebunmi Dokun, has expressed displeasure over the non-passage of the National Tobacco Control Act (NTCA). Dokun disclosed this recently in Lagos, at a Breakfast Policy Dialogue organised by Initiative for Policy Analysis (IPPA) with the theme: ‘Moving from Regulation to Policy Action- the Challenge.’ He said despite the enactment of the Act in May, 2015, there are still concerns expressed in some quarters, adding that there are concerted efforts in addressing these concerns without compromising public interest. He further explained that the non-passage of the Act has worsened the business environment for the private sector players. “It is not just accidental therefore that the
Dokun
National Bureau of Statistics (NBS) reported the food, beverage and tobacco industry contracted in the end of 2016 was -2.7 per
cent in the last year from 5.8 per cent in the third quarter in 2016,” he noted. Dokun, who was represented by his Special Assistant, Al-Marruf Ajibolu, added that the lack of effective implementation of the provisions contained in the Act has made it inappropriate in reforming the Act. “The lack of implementation has not provided a fertile ground to know what is actually wrong in the present provisions,” he said. In his remarks, the Executive Director of IPPA, Mr. Thompson Ayodele, said as a group their focus was not only on tobacco, but on the food and beverages industry, adding that the sector is very important to the growth of the economy. He added that the growth of the sector was slow, as a result it could not contribute to the Gross Domestic Product (GDP). “If this continues it would affect the overall growth
of the economy, especially with the country’s exit from recession,” he said. Continuing, Dokun added, “Therefore, I strongly (recommend) that laws should always be implemented before the consideration of any amendment. They have to be tested, evaluated, gaps identified and addressed before new laws or amendments are introduced. Of course, the Act can only be implemented by the executive branch and not by the stakeholders in the sector. “I want to enjoin everyone to join hand with the government in the implementation of the law and point out whatever gaps that may exist. As you all know, Perfection is a process and every one of us are part of that process. I want this gathering to know that whatever Act passed by the national assembly is meant for the general well-being of the citizenry. We are your representatives and we are doing people’s business.”
The Next Titan Nigeria Unveils Season 4 Top 16 Peter Uzoho In a suspense-filled unveiling process, Nigeria's one and only entrepreneurship TV reality show, The Next Titan Nigeria, has unveiled the Top 16 contenders in the ongoing season four competition. Fifty entrepreneurs of great business ideas made it to the Premiere/Gala Nite recently where skill and luck separated 16 contestants from the numbers, leading them into the Next Titan House. While 15 of them emerged through selection by the judges, one person was specially chosen by Heritage Bank Plc, the chief sponsor of the annual show. Having successfully made it to the The Next Titan House, the top 16 entrepreneurs will be locked in weeks of real business drills where they will showcase their unique business skills and ideas through regular tasks that will be given to them by the judges. They are to aggressively compete for the final three and eventual winner of the N5, 000, 000 mouth-watering grand prize put at stake by Heritage Bank, and a brand new Ranger car donated by Coscharis Ford Motors.
A cross section of graduates from the Ethiopian Aviation Academy
Speaking at the event, Senior Special Assistant to President Mohammadu Buhari on Job Creation, Mr. Afolabi Imoukhuede, congratulated all the 50 Next Titan entrepreneurs for making it to the Premiere Nite, describing them as winners. He spoke to them on the topic: ‘Big Thinking and Big Impact’. “All the entrepreneurs who think big really make big impact. Big is not
the size of your organisation neither is it the number of your employees, or the thickness of your rules and regulations. It’s not about how thick the handbook of your organisation is. But I think the big is really about the scope of your vision and the impact that you make,” Imoukhuede said. He said Nigeria needs more of the Next Titan platform in order to ignite the entrepreneurial
Bon Hotel Grand Tower Excites Abuja Residents With Nostalgia Restaurant Peter Uzoho The management of Bon Hotel Grand Tower, Katampe, Abuja, has said the hotel was now set to excite Abuja residents, visitors and the general public with its fully re-branded in-house Nostalgia Restaurant where patrons could taste a wide variety of foods. According to the hotelwhich is managed by the renowned Bon Hotel Group, the arrival of world class Executive Chef, Mr. Chris Lategen will add extra excitement to the hotel as he is ready to serve out his world famous culinary delights through his premium culinary and hospitality skills, giving young chefs the ultimate culinary learning environment. Speaking recently in Abuja, General Manager, Bon Hotel Grand Tower, Abuja, Mr. Graham Barensche, said the group was known all over the continent for its commitments to
its guests and their welfare, adding that the hotel was delighted to have Chef Lategen and his team to enhance customer experience at the hotel. Graham said the arrival of Lategen and the fully rebranded Nostalgia Restaurant would provide a unique opportunity for Abuja residents and visitors to sample the warmth and hospitality Grand Tower provides, stressing that the restaurant would provide a wide variety of top international, African and Nigerian food offerings. He urged visitors coming to Abuja including residents of the city to avail themselves the unique opportunity, and give themselves and their loved ones a lifetime treatment. He pointed out that the restaurant has the capacity to host hundreds of patrons and diners at any time, making it a popular choice for private parties and functions. Graham commended the government for
providing the enabling environment which he said, has allowed tourism and hospitality business to thrive in the country, adding that the hotel felicitated with the government and people of Nigeria over the Independence Day celebrations. On his part, the Executive Chef of the Hotel, Mr. Chris Lategen, said with over 30 years experience as an executive chef around the world, he was bringing his expertise and skills for the benefits of Nigeria and Nigerians. Expressing his delight with varieties of Nigerian foods that he has mastered since coming to the country, Lategen said the country remains the food variety capital of the continent due to the abundance of fresh food and vegetables. He said he would continue to be in the forefront of efforts to ensure that Nigerians have the right skills that will drive the nation's tourism and hospitality sectors of the economy.
CGM Bishop Launches Two Books Ugo Aliogo, Mercy Kumdan, and Mary Efuwape Bishop Matthew Egwowa of Church of God Mission International (CGM), Mafoluku, Lagos, has launched two books titled: ‘20 lessons on the death of the giant’ and ‘The act of God Volume 2’, the launching which coincided with the Independence Day celebration, also marked the start of the 2017 edition of the Burning Bush, a week-long programme. Speaking at the event, Eqwowa said the 20 lessons are like 20 triggers an individual can press to bring down every personal Goliath, adding that they are powerful divine nuggets to be activated in every battle of life. “These
giants appear as mountains or seemingly insurmountable human problems.” He also stated that the giant of all spiritual warfare is satan and he has fallen, stressing that when Goliath fell, all his soldiers ran away. “Unfortunately, Christians are running in the wrong direction instead of giving chase and gathering the spoils, they are fleeing from the minions of an enemy that has fallen. “The Acts of God II essentially derives from the miracle root of CGM delivered to our founder, Archbishop Benson Idahosa, in the scripture that says ‘I and the sons the Lord has given me are for signs and wonders’. CGM is a miracle-based and load removing ministry akin to the ministry of Jesus Christ.
The testimonies contained in the book are our daily, regular experiences in our meetings and services,” he stated. He called on clergymen not to be satisfied with just preaching, but to strive to see that people are practically comforted by the supernatural words they impart and bring joy and peace to the sinner, poor and sick. The Bishop revealed that the over seven years 'Burning Bush' is a revival programme to reignite and uphold the faith of Christians who have either not had their year's prayer requests answered and those who have had theirs answered and consequently turned down the fervency of their prayers as the year begins to wind down.
spirits of the enormous youthful population, nurture their pretty ideas into most valuable products that fit into the Nigerian marketplace, and taking advantage of the huge national population and the global market. In his keynote address, Managing Director/ Chief Executive Officer, Heritage Bank, Mr. Ifie Sekibo, congratulated the conveners of the show for staging the event for the fourth year, and “for bringing together the brightest talents that are eager to prove their unmatchable skills in shaping the economy; that leads to numerous investments and translate into job creation across the country.” Sekibo represented at the event by the Executive Director, Mr. Jude Monye, added: “Today, I am glad to see these 50 contenders emerging from the thousands of faces from the entries submitted; contenders who are willing to take up the challenge as entrepreneurs and change the world for better, as presented in this year’s theme: ‘Big Thinking, Big Impact’. And, I am confident that Heritage Bank’s partnership with The Next Titan presents the right avenue for young, innovative entrepreneurs to grow and thrive.”
Rotary Club of Lagos Island District, Geeta Ashram Urge FG on Improving Health Delivery Ugo Aliogo, Mercy Kumdan and Augusta Akumka The Rotary of Club of Lagos Island District 9110 Nigeria and Geeta Ashram Nigeria have called on federal government to continue to pursue policies aimed at improving healthcare delivery in the country. The call was made at the recently concluded free eye operation camp, tagged: ‘Vision 2020-the right to sight’ organised by the Rotary Club of Lagos Island District 9110 in Kano State. According to a statement made available to THISDAY by the media consultant to Rotary Club of Lagos Island District 9110, Aramide Noibe, it was noted that government health policies should focus on areas of blindness and other chronicle ailments. It also called individuals and Non-Governmental Organisations (NGOs) to support government financially in its drive in healthcare delivery, adding that government alone cannot shoulder the financial responsibilities. It would be recalled that Geeta Ashram Nigeria started the projects since 2001, but stopped due to the political situation in the country, then resumed in 2009 and subsequently partnered with the Rotary Mega Club of Lagos Island to actualise the 2017 project. It was further noted that the exercise involved daily surgical operation of 80 beneficiaries, while at the end 436 beneficiaries were treated of various eye defects.
34/XTRA
20.10.2017
Nigeria Needs Stronger Policies to Curb Deforestation, Climate Change, Says Obasanjo Ehime Alex Former President Olusegun Obasanjo has called on government at all levels to prioritise on policies that could effectively and adequately curtail environmental degradation through deforestation. Obasanjo said this,in a statement made available to THISDAY, on the sidelines of the meeting of the 11th National Council on Environment (NCE) while receiving delegates from the Federal Ministry of Environment (FME) at his Hilltop residence in Abeokuta. He stressed that charcoal business, common among people of the South-west Zone of the Nigeria, had resulted to huge loss of economic trees and greenery. The ex-President who expressed concern that states like Oyo, Ogun and Kwara, were losing their rich forest reserves to those indulging in incessant tree felling at the expense of the environment, said climate change and extinction of wild life were burning issues that government at all levels must prioritise. Whilst noting that disasters in many countries across the world were consequences of climate change, he urged stakeholders within
Obasanjo
the environment sector to maximize on the 11th NCE meeting to strengthen existing environmental laws and formulate effective policies on deforestation, wild life conservation and climate change. Explaining the rationale for the visit to the former president, the Minister of State for Environment, Ibrahim Usman Jibril, disclosed
that Obasanjo's understanding of the importance of the environment led to the creation of the FME during his tenure as president. Meanwhile, Ogun State Government has advocated for more climates friendly technologies to address and mitigate the green house effect as well as climate change in the country. The state Commissioner for Environment, Mr. Bolaji Oyeleye, also in a statement made the call during the 11th NCE meeting held at cultural centre, kuto, Abeokuta, with the theme: ‘Opportunities in the Environment Sector Towards Nigeria’s Economic Recovery, Diversification, Growth and Sustainable Development’. Emphasising on the need for collaborative efforts among all levels of government, Oyeleye said it was incumbent on the FME to come up with strategies and action plan that would strengthen the monitoring and enforcement capacities of the federal government and its component units. ‘’There is no doubting the fact that green house gases are the culprits of climate change and major sources of these gases are burning of fossil fuels. For us as a nation whose Gross Domestic Products (GDP) depends primarily on
Open House Lagos Set to Rediscover Rhythm of Lagos Architecture Adedayo Adejobi With a view to entrenching a culture of sustainability in Nigeria’s urbane architecture to the point where it can leave a legacy that would see future generations enjoying its iconic buildings in real time instead of through the pages of historical text or slides, the initiators of Open house Lagos seeks to address this. According to the organisers, “the Open House project seeks to connect tourists and the local population to the architecture of specific buildings in the town - some of these buildings are not usually open to the public.” Speaking to journalists, Olamide UdomaEjorh said, ‘‘the first edition of Open House Lagos took place in April 2016, with the primary aim of encouraging tourists to explore the built environment of Lagos. Through this experience – the first of its kind in Africa, the visitors not only got to visit the buildings and learn about their architecture, they were also encouraged to appreciate the social, economic and political impact of these buildings. Initially a UKNG 2015-2016 project, it included themed bus tours to fit with the peculiar mobility in a city such as Lagos. Open House Lagos 2016 was successful, a fact attested to by the astounding work done by the sixty, 18-35 year olds who held the fort and conducted the tours, the positive feedback from the tourists and building owners, the number of buildings that signed on, as well as the collaboration with almost 30 building owners all over Lagos, including the University of Lagos and Legacy1995, a non-profit organisation that focuses on the restoration of colonial and pre-colonial buildings in Nigeria.” In the words of the Open House Project Manager, “essentially, historic buildings were
exporting of fossil fuels, with our self declared commitment to achieve the agreement, we must gain back whatever we have lost in our future fossil fuel business with the evolution of marketable climate friendly technologies,’’ he said. Adding that, ‘’the federal government should come up with practicable mechanism of curbing gaseous release from automobile and reduce the activities gas flaring in our oil fields should come to an end in shortest possible time.” Earlier at the 11th NCE meeting, the Minister of State for Environment, Jubril who was represented by the agency’s permanent secretary, Dr. Shehu Ahmed, was of the optimism that the meeting would address the environmental challenges confronting the country, while also hoping that the government would as a matter of necessity consider all memoranda emanating from the fora. Further, Jubril appreciated the Ogun State Government for its measures at tackling some of its environmental challenges, promising that the FME would continue to collaborate with the state towards making it more environmentfriendly.
Bryann Makes Strong Impression with ‘Attention’ Peter Uzoho
Open House Lagos
included in the Open House Lagos tours, as were religious buildings, modern buildings, personal or commercial buildings of architectural interest and buildings that were built with ecology (green buildings) in mind. These tours are grouped into 12 categories, each catering to a concept – for example, the Renaissance Tour, which focuses on historical buildings. With 30 buildings opened to the public as part of the tour in 2016 and 2017, it is no shock to learn that 2018 will witness another edition of Open House Lagos and other Nigerian cities are looking to key in. However, there is a benchmark of 30 iconic buildings that any city looking to have an Open House event must meet. The Open House Lagos festival has continued to happen outside the season and is going ahead to stand as an independent entity,” Udoma-Ejorh said. Some of the buildings that have featured in the tours are The Holy Cross Cathedral, Radisson Blu, British Council Office, Alara Store, Nigerian Railway Corporation Compound in Yaba. Surely with projects such as Open House
Lagos, more sustainable cities can be created, if more people are encouraged and given reasons to care about the buildings around them and the ones they live in. Open House Lagos (OHL) is part of the Open House World Wide brand which started in 2010, and connects a community of over 30 cities, organising annual events with the same model, with an audience of over one million people who participate in Open House events worldwide. Open House Lagos arts in Nigeria, is focused on creating access to art, new digital work, innovation, art in public spaces and working with young people aimed at building new audiences, creating new collaborations and strengthening relationships between the UK and Nigeria. The brainchild of the British Council, programmed in association with a host of partners, featured more than 30 projects and more than 340 events in art, fashion, design, theatre, dance, music, literature and film throughout Nigeria and included showcases of Nigerian arts and creative industries in the UK.
Gifted young Nigerian singer, Bryan Ebuka Chiji popularly known as Bryann has released a highly infectious new song titled ‘Attention’. The new single was also accompanied by sterling visuals directed by one of Nigeria’s leading cinematographers, Bryann Unlimited LA. Signed onto C4 Records, Bryann’s style of music is a fusion of sub- genres of African Sounds; highlife and R &B. His awareness to the different cultures and understanding of music in general increased as an adolescent being exposed to music from musicians such as Fela, Bob Marley, Brenda Fassie, 2Face idibia, Mo’hits and Wizkid. He has also performed on the same stage with top African musicians across the country. The new groovy self-produced love inspired tune further confirms Bryann vocal dexterity and lyrical prowess. He pours so much soul and emotions into the song with his adorable voice, and it will be interesting to see how much different the new song will make in a couple of weeks. Bryann’s career in music had its roots in Emerald High School when he joined the school choir and to further gain control over his sound, he learned Production. His stage craft and energy during his performances has earned him far-fetched recognitions in all the cities he has performed.
Islamic League with the Beauty of Being a Muslim Prior to the Ramadan season, the Islamic League of Nigeria, one of the oldest and strongest Muslim societies in the world, held a pre-Ramadan lecture to usher in the fasting season in accordance with Islamic rites. The impact of that May 21st religious event at the Institute of Medical Research, Yaba, left much to be desired as it reawakened the tenets of Islam and the moral objectives of the religion to the society. Amongst the Muslim faithful that gathered alongside great Islamic scholars are Dr. MisbaudDin Olawale Raheemson of the Department of Religion and Peace Studies, Lagos State University; and Fadhilat Habeebulah Adam Abudulahi, Principal of Murkaz, Agege. According to the National Missionary of Islamic League of Nigeria, Alhaji Rajee Sulaiman El Iman, the society involve in different activities to have
positive impact in the life of people all over the world since its existence. He pointed out some of this as; poverty alleviation programmes; turbaning and graduating students from their school which he benefited from as one of the first to graduate there. Also, the President of Islamic League of Nigeria, Alhaji Muhammed Bakare noted that Islam is a peaceful religion. He said there are no differences between Islamic League and other Muslim societies. He mentioned that there’s platform called Muslims Community of Lagos State. This binds all Muslim societies in Lagos State together and it has been able to keep and improve the oneness among them. The Islamic League which has been in existence for over 50 years now and derived its source from Mecca, Saudi Arabia. The idea came from
friends who met to perform pilgrims (Umrah and Hajj) from different countries. They have same objectives of showing the beauty of Islam to the world. In so doing, they form a group of friends and led to Islamic League. Each individual in the formative group then took it to their different countries with strong networking and communication to monitor the improvement and assist each other. He further stated that “Islam is one, we call on one Allah and worship the way holy Prophent Muhammed (SAW) has thought us. We have one holy book (Quran) and Hadith which is the says and doings of holy Prophet serves as guide to all Muslims in the world. Muslims should be positive to goodness not to only Muslims but to all creature of Allah. Islam is far from terrorism.
President Islamic League of Nigeria, Alhaji Muhammed Bakare
35/ENTREPRENEUR
20.10.2017
‘I’m Using Betterhalf Show to Impact the Life of People’ The Betterhalf talk show is the brainchild of Godman Akinlabi, a.k.a PeeGee, a renowned author, relationship counselor, management consultant, resource investigator, leadership and relationship coach who loves to see relationship work. In this interview with journalists, Akinlabi shares insight on why he embarked on the project to plug the knowledge gap in successful relationship building across Africa. Ehime Alex was there The Show is only on YouTube at present. What plans do you have to go on national television? There are plans to go on national television. We are starting out onYouTube; something we think is easy for us and for people to start benefiting. Rather than wait until we have the money or get a TV station to partner with us. Let’s get people to start benefiting from it. Perhaps as we get people to watch and make comments it may even encourage those who have the means to even advertise on it.
What informed the name Betterhalf Show? There was a time I was to give a talk on marriage and relationship in 2011. The title that came to my mind was’Mr. and Mrs. Betterhalf’. That was how it all started. Since the talk was well received then, I started to build around it.The first thing I did was to call a few friends together.I said to them, I have this idea that I should do something about my passion for relationship especially in the area of marriage to help young people build a strong foundation while in relationship before getting into marriage, and to get people to understand the basic things surrounding marriage. Eventually, I got it involved on social media, that was three or four year ago. When I started the twitter event with the hash tag #MrMrsBetterHalf,I got a couple of singles and married people joined as followers. From there, I started to write more books on marriage and relationship stuff. So, their feedback motivated you to write more books on relationship? Having received and read quite a lot of messages from their tweets, I found out that there were areas in marriage that needed to be addressed to engender interactions, questions, action steps and all that. The truth is that, you either choose to bury your head and play the ostrich or resolve the issues in your marriage. A good conversation starter is the best deal to any marriage. So, some of the things we are doing at present were things brainstormed with my friends. Majorities are at the right time, and we are saying, what is the low hanging fruit, the lowest level we could kick-start it? Share your thoughts on twitter. But, at that time, I didn’t know it was going to require a lot of resource pool. Now, I have close to a hundred and fifty episodes which I have created curriculum out of. It was just a very good decision to start from that medium. It is from that pool of resource that the Director of the Show could create episodes while the script writers go to work. The soft documents for writing now become some of the episodes that I have done on twitter. So, you see how everything gets interconnected here and there. It’s like flipping a resource into several modes of expression. That is what we are doing. My job right now is to write more articles and every other thing snowballs from there. What do you expect viewers to look out for on the Show? Besides the excitement or entertainment value, which is strong, I expect as people watch the Show they share thoughts about their lives, since I throw in a lot of probing questions. I share words of wisdom. But most importantly is the salient weight of wisdom, principles that will make any marriage work and last. If for instance, somebody shares experience of marriage challenges, another could learn something from it. It is for the viewers to be able to draw some strength and wisdom at least to cope with pressure from families, friends, parents and all that. There are some principles that are universal that have no respect for any person, religion or political lineage, whether you are black or white, it doesn’t matter.Certain principles govern life, marriage and relationship generally. That is why some people who have mastered those principles do better, a lot better like building relationship across board. Being a good husband is not a gift from God. It is applying to certain principles, and living a principle-centred life, which is profitable. Part of the gain is a good-happy home. There is a way a man should live irrespective of his status in the society. Marriage has values and the valuable positions are there. But will the viewership be limited to a certain set, the youth? Not at all, principles can be absorbed by anyone
Akinlabi
not minding age, only that, young people are more impressionable. They align faster and better. The Show is for everybody, not minding how long you have been married. The basic understanding is that knowledge is relevant at any age. For someone who doesn’t know how to write and the principles that govern writing, even at the age of 50 or 70 years, if you start to teach that person, the person can still learn to write and even write a book before death comes. We have people in their seventies who are going into marriage or who probably lost their spouse earlier in life and for 10 or 15 years have not remarried and are just getting back into marriage.We have people in their mid-sixties who are probably in their second or third marriages and the last two or one has been record failure. So if they glean on these principles now, they can get better. The Show is not only for beginners because principles apply across board. It is something that everybody should watch and gain result. How do you get couples come on the programme? We have started gradually to push out emails and numbers people can reach us on if they want to get on the programme. As we continue in the next few weeks featuring the Show on YouTube, thousands of views are gradually building up. From those views, people will want to ventilate, to give opinion. That in a way will help to harvest some people who will want to come on the show, share experience and make comments. We believed that when we have a pool of knowledge it gets better. But, we will improve on that. Does that mean picking your guests at random? We intend to use basic approach, but deliberate on who features on the Show. The guest must have something impactful. Don’t forget, the Show is built around principles. For instance, you watch a show that is titled ‘In-law Wahala’. What we are discussing is how to handle in-law, the place of in-law in marriage.It is for people who have the experience. In one episode I title ‘In-law Wahala’, a woman in her seventies was invited. She has four daughters, all married. She has been a grandmother for few years and mother in-law for many years. So, we were able to ask her, how have you been able to cope as a mother in-law to four men? What were the peculiarities of each of them? How have you been able to keep the marriage of your daughters going well? How will you handle issues of traditional beliefs in marriage? I will say that most religions teache life principles. Culture should be progressive and any culture seen not to be progressive should be jettisoned. When you look at it from that
point of view, you will see that from time to time whatever religion somebody has chosen will be counter-culture at certain time. Where religion and culture cross is a trouble spot that needed to be navigated carefully. But based on your conviction, you actually have to choose to go in the way of what you believe. Personally, I will say that any culture or tradition that is not progressive and cannot engender development and progress in the lives of the people should be put aside. Why did we decide to abolish female genital mutilation? It was part of a tradition that was not progressive in people’s life. I am an advocate for that. Female genital mutilation was seen to be destroying sexual intimacy in marriage. The truth is culture is not hundred per cent right because there are particular bad cultures we need to do away with. The difference between us in Africa and the West when it comes to family issues is because we are more coming-outs in our way of life. We make friends; mingle around and even with our next door neighbourhoods. Relatives can visit us uninvited and uninformed, yet we accommodate them. You can’t do that in the West. The person, be it parent will be turned back. Such action in Africa is utter disrespect, you know. There is no perfect culture as it were anyway. But, we should keep our commoner and borrow boundary when necessary.Balancing is the game. What are the likely challenges before the project, Betterhalf Show? Part of the challenges will be to get people come on the show to talk and make it sustainable. But we believe that as the Show gain a good perception and value preposition; many more people will perhaps see it as part of their social responsibility to somebody else. Another challenge is sustainability in terms of sponsorship because it cost a lot to actually put up things together: the cost of production, training people, logistics, equipment, and administration. But I believe with time many people will see the value in it and will want to invest in what we are doing. Majorly those are the two things that will challenge us. Do you get lost on topics you treat on the Show? It is difficult to get lost on topics. Any time we have such issue, what I do is to pull people together. The show is all about people. What are you going through in relationship? Has anybody complained to you recently, what are they complaining about? As far as human beings are alive, human issues will always come up. Obviously, issues will always be there, but the body of knowledge is growing at a faster paste now because of how connected we are all around the world through the internet and the speed at which information is being passed.
How soon do you intend to go on national TV? Very soon, as soon as we get the kind of support that will make it less burdensome on us. Currently, is just something am doing out of passion. None of the organisations I work and relate with is directly involved yet in the sponsorship. I have only one or two organisations that are partnering with us in terms of public relations which took it as part of their social responsibility and believe in family value. However, the main thrust is sustainability. We need more organisations like that to do stuff for us and before you know it we are there in the face of everybody. But now people need internet data to be able to watch the show. What success or joy do you anticipate as the project progresses? My joy will be to have feedbacks from people that the Show has touched their life. Although, I have been getting positive feedback on my twitter handle. So, when people say this Show has changed their life, marriage. We are happier. There is a way you do something just for personal projection but the real fulfillment will only come for us when the feedbacks are positive. The soul of what we are doing is not comedy but impact on the life of people. So, from your dealings with people, families, couples, what would you say about life? I will just say generally that life is about people. If you make it about something else, you are going to miss out big time on the purpose of life. God loves people and if you believe in God, and don’t align with what is uppermost in His mind, you are going to miss out. People are very important. One of the things I have learnt in life is that your life gains a sense of meaning and fulfillment when it is about meeting the needs of other people, whether you are a teacher, pastor or political office holder, whatever. You can be rich in money and poor in people. The truth is you hardly can be rich in people without being rich in money because people will make you rich. But if you focus on money you can die miserably because in any calamity you will be on your own. What do you intend to achieve with the Show in the next five years? Yeah, the next five years for us, I will say that I want it to be a kind of Show that will shake our national life, not just in Nigeria but across Africa. The moment we jump out with our first episode we will do a bit of advertising on social media and others. We have realised that on our Facebook page, we have close to 13,000 followers right now. About 30 to 40 per cent of them are from East Africa, Kenya and the rest. People just like the Show and they want to watch it online. There is no barrier as long as they have internet to watch it. But we want to get to a point whereby we shape national discourse around families, relationship and the Show becomes the NO.1 resource to look out for when it comes to having a better marriage, principle based marriage across Africa, because our issues are likely the same. And also, see it dovetail into other value propositions as it goes on at various medium as possible. Everything will be towards enriching relationship.
36
T H I S D AY FRIDAY OCTOBER 20, 2017
T H I S D AY FRIDAY OCTOBER 20 2017
37
38
T H I S D AY FRIDAY OCTOBER 20, 2017
THE FEDERAL REPUBLIC OF NIGERIA THE FEDERAL MINISTRY OF INDUSTRY, TRADE AND INVESTMENT (FMITI) GROWTH AND EMPLOYMENT (GEM) PROJECT CREDIT No. No.4882-NG.
CALL FOR PROPOSALS (CFP) FOR INNOVATION HUBS UNDER THE INNOVATIVE MARKET GRANTS WINDOW. The Growth and Employment (GEM) Project, a World Bank Group funded project implemented by the Federal Ministry of Industry, Trade and Investment (FMITI) is pleased to invite proposals from existing private sector operators with innovative, viable and sustainable proposals for the establishment of Innovation Hubs in South- East, South-South, North-West, or North East of Nigeria. Building on the recommendations of the Strategic Framework and High Level implementation plan for Job Creation in Nigeria, and as part of the Federal Government's drive to boost job creation, youth employment and enterprise development in Nigeria, the Job Creation Team in the Office of the Vice-President (OVP), working with FMITI and other government ministries and agencies, is supporting the establishment of Innovation Hubs across Nigeria.
OTHER REQUIRED DOCUMENTATION In addition to filling up the Application Form and the Project Financial Modelling template, the applicants must submit the following additional documents;
Innovation Hubs are commonly defined as virtual or physical spaces that allow for collaboration among all or a combination of the following: private sector, public sector, academia and civil society. In many instances, these hubs act as market enablers, providing the necessary support and facilitation needed to spark and accelerate innovative ideas and business models. As part of a broader innovation ecosystem, hubs tend to serve as communities, work spaces, or research centers attracting, retaining and building talent. Innovation Hubs will serve as catalysts to move the Nigerian economy to become a knowledge driven and smart economy, capable of rapidly accelerating industrialization by serving as talent acceleration points for entrepreneurship and young Nigerians in competitive sectors of the economy. Competitive sectors may include but are not limited to Digital and Innovative Solutions, Professional Services, Construction, and Manufacturing and Agro-allied Technologies. The specific objectives of each of these hubs will be driven by the socio-economic characteristics and the innovation and entrepreneurship needs assessed for each of the regions. However, the hubs should share the following common objectives: ? Empower and create job and income raising opportunities for youth, the self-employed (including farmers) and existing micro, small and medium (MSMEs) enterprises within the GEM sectors: Information Communication Technology, Entertainment, Light Manufacturing (Agri-business and processing), Hospitality, and Construction or any activities relating to any of these sectors; ? Increase overall productivity of MSMEs resulting in improved competitiveness of targeted local goods and services; ? Encourage and increase regional innovation activity across priority sectors in regional economies; ? Leverage and mainstream business development services developed from MSMEs as part of the GEM project. See Annex for details; ? Ability to complement, leverage and build on existing innovation related support activities and efforts, unless there are shown to be uncompetitive or distorting the market; ? Provide example for workable collaboration that will trigger uptake, scale and crowding-in by other investors and entrepreneurs.
Please note that no submissions will be accepted on any other platform or a different email address. Handwritten submissions will not be accepted.
3)
Scanned copy of the annual financial statements of the immediate past year (and other documentation to provide evidence of funds to match the proposed grant);
4)
Scanned copy of Tax Certificate from authorized public sector revenue authority
5)
CVs of the business owner (s) and other key people involved in the project in line with staffing section in the application form;
6)
18-month implementation timeframe with key milestones and expected tranche disbursement, and
7)
Copy of articles and memorandum of association for limited companies, or any other document with similar details for other forms of business. If consortium arrangement application, proposals should submit 1, 2 and 3 of above stated documents for each consortium member as well as other key documents referencing prior collaboration among the consortium members.
a.
Rationale for this specific Innovation Hub. The applicant will be assessed on his capacity to: (1) clearly define the market failure the Innovation Hub will be addressing. A market failure is here defined as a problem that prevents private sector to grow and justifies a public intervention (here GEM project); (2) describe issues faced by the private sector in the selected specific industry (if relevant) and in the selected geopolitical zone; (3) describe how the Hub will address these cross-country and/or specific challenges and; (4) provide a clear rationale for the location. Overall, proposal must demonstrate that Innovation Hubs will be established within the context of a solid market, a sound financial base and strong community support and are filling a clear market failure.
b.
Relevant support to start-ups and MSMEs. The applicant will propose a clear list of activities being proposed by the Innovation Hub – based on a clear understanding of the constraints faced by start-ups and MSMEs. This can include: rental spaces, equity investment in MSME, incubator, business consulting, etc. The applicant will also indicate the profile of the potential clients and a draft selection criteria for entering the Hub.
c.
Business Plan and Financial sustainability. GEM Innovative Market Grant finance will support financial resources to allow selected Innovation Hubs to start operations, however proposals must have a sound, longer term financial plan that identifies a variety of e.g. new/ potential funding sources and predicts the nature of the hub and its expenses going forward. Proposals should present a robust business model that can lead to future sustainability, including a realistic assessment of potential financing and revenue sources beyond the funding period, governance arrangements that reinforce sustainability and a strategy that ensures strong ownership of local stakeholders.
d.
Leadership and management capacity. The following aspects will be assessed as part of the evaluation:
ii. Competences of leadership and technical team. Innovation Hubs business plans must identify strong leadership and management skills and ensure the team has required experience and competencies from the private sector for its implementation. Furthermore, proposals will be assessed on their capability to identify and engage potential part-time staff e.g. trainers or mentors) that would be able to come in on a more ad-hoc basis and in relation to particular technology or market issues. iii. Proposed operational risk mitigation plan to address risks such as those arising from external systemic constraints that would limit the viability of the proposed hub, such as legislation, skills, financial processes and flows, critical infrastructure, etc. e.
Quality of Partnerships: proposals will be assessed on their ability to leverage partnerships and alliances in order to maximize hub's objectives such as collaborating with other likeminded hubs, cooperating on projects (e.g. with corporates, government, academia and other startups) that promote information exchange and create strong business networks, and promotional activities that strengthen ties with local business and community leaders. Applicants should show proof of previous collaboration or ongoing dialogue for any partnership included in the application.
f.
Clear Development Objective, Measurable Results and Effectiveness: The business plan must clearly demonstrate how it seeks to have a direct and positive impact on local economy, on innovation and contribute to GEM's project objectives (sales and employment growth of supported MSMEs). The applicant will also define a clear innovation agenda for her Hub. Proposals must have clear and measurable results framework.
The submission deadline will be November 17, 2017 at mid-night Nigerian Time (GMT+1 hour). Any applications received after this date shall not be processed. For more information about the selection process or any further enquiries or clarifications, visit https://cfp.bigportal.org.ng/cfp/innovationhub or send questions by email to th innovationhub@bigportal.org.ng or alternatively gem.project@ng.pwc.com on or before November 17 , 2017.
HOW TO APPLY Proposal need to be submitted following the steps given below:
Complete the Application Form template and the Project Financial Modelling template;
Scanned copies of Federal Government of Nigeria issued identification (such as international passport, National identity card or driver's license) of the business owner(s);
I. Previous knowledge and experience establishing and manage the Innovation Hubs including the capacity to build and manage complex organizations, and strong internal governance frameworks by at least one of the consortium members.
WHO CAN APPLY Proposals which GEM will consider for funding under this window must meet the following eligibility criteria: ? The Grantee must be a for-profit private sector company, partnership (aka consortium), or sole Proprietorship(s). ? The GEM funding requested for by potential Grantees must not be less than US$50,000.00 and not more than US$500,000.00 equivalent. Please note that grants will be paid in Naira equivalent at the time of the withdrawal. ? The Grantee must provide 50, 35 or 20 percent matching fund depending on the proposed geopolitical zone in the form of cash or cash equivalent (acceptable to the Government). ? The Grantee is not insolvent, declared bankrupt, is not under receivership, has made no arrangement for the benefit of its creditors, has not petitioned or applied to any Court or tribunal for the appointment of a receiver or a trustee for itself/himself or any part of its/his property, nor has commenced against it and pending any legal proceedings for its dissolution, liquidation, reorganization or readjustment of its debt. ? The Grantee shall meet the following business registration and operation requirements: - The Business of the Grantee must be registered either as a Business Name or Company at the Corporate Affairs Commission (CAC). - Where all the members of the Business Entity are not involved in the Business to which this grant is being made, the member(s) involved must have the majority share or interest in the Business Entity (i.e. minimum of 51%). - Where the member(s) to administer, and manage the Grant funded business does not have majority interest, he/it/they shall obtain a notarized undertaking from the other members not to interfere with the Grant funded Business and also granting him/it/them full authority to operate the business.
b)
2)
Applications will be evaluated based on the following criteria:
Proposals must seek to identify an applicable and sustainable business model where the Innovation Hub can leverage the market opportunities and competitive advantages of its area, and where the way forward is based on a critical mass of potential clients. Proposals should also consider how hubs can potentially service beneficiaries of the GEM project.
Log on to the Business Innovation and Growth (BIG) Portal at: https://cfp.bigportal.org.ng/ cfp/innovationhub and download the required forms under the Innovative Market Window link;
Scanned original copy of business registration with the Corporate Affairs Commission (CAC);
SELECTION CRITERIA
This CFP is aimed at providing financial support to the first wave of these Innovation Hubs in the above-mentioned four selected geopolitical zones. GEM project will award up to six winners (i.e. grantees) with a maximum of one innovation hub per selected zone. Submitted proposals will first be screened for complete submission of required documentation and then be evaluated on the pre-agreed selection criteria noted below. Winning proposals will receive between US$100,000.00 and US$500,000.00 as grant award, based on, among others, the impact of the proposed Hub business plan and its financial sustainability within the targeted zone.
a)
1)
1
Proposals are encouraged to review and leverage key findings from a recent Dalberg report on “Catalyzing Growth in Nigeria through Regional Innovation”, particularly section 4 on regional innovation in Nigeria. North-Central and South-West Zones have been preselected in initial CFP published 18th April 2017 in national dailies. This re-advertisement is for the remaining zones. 2 The nature of the matching contribution will be approved by the Grant Administrator on a project by project basis. Depending on the call for proposals, grantees could be required to provide matching funds upfront for reimbursement by the GEM project upon the Grant Administrator's approval.
T H I S D AY FRIDAY OCTOBER 20 2017
39
T H I S D AY ˾ FRIDAY, OCTOBER 20, 2017
40
CITYSTRINGS
Acting Features Editor Charles Ajunwa Email charles.ajunwa@thisdaylive.com
R-L: Mrs. Imabong Etiebet, Chief Don Etiebet, Prof. Pat Utomi, Chief Olawale Ige, and Dr. Thomas John, cutting Etiebet’s 73rd birthday cake at the event
A Worthy Honour Recently, the father of Nigeria’s ICT sector and Chairman of Data Sciences Nigeria Limited, Chief Don Etiebet, was honoured by players in the IT industry at the 39th Leadership Tribute Colloquium organised by the Centre for Values in Leadership, writes Peter Uzoho
T
hinking back, during the dark ages, when access to information and communication technology were only a preserve of the West, and pondering over now what a good number of Nigerians are experiencing, throughdifferent platforms, the gains of ICT in the country, one would readily realise that it had taken strong effort, commitment and sacrifice of some to make this happen. Today, the level of computer use, awareness, acceptability and applications in different aspects of Nigerian’s life cannot be said without mentioning one of the pioneers, Chief Don Etiebet, the Chairman of Data Sciences Nigeria Limited. His dream of computerising Nigeria and making ICT a lifestyle in the country has been fulfilled. In the present day Nigeria, the talk about e-governance, e-marketing, e-commerce, e-banking, e-learning, and others, are pointers to it. However, to remind Nigerians of those who pioneered the development of ICT in the country, the Centre for Values in Leadership (CVL), at its 39th Leadership Tribute Colloquium featured one of Nigeria’s prides, the father and poster boy of the nation’s ICT industry, Etiebet – to honour him as he marked his 73rd birthday. The colloquium entitled: ‘The Evolution of ICT and the Speed of Change in Nigeria’s Economic Space’, saw experts and chief
executives of IT companies, members of the academia, associates, lovers of worthy role models, relatives and kinsmen appear en masse at the Nigerian Institute of International Affairs (NIIA), Victoria Island, Lagos, to join in celebrating him.
Today, the level of computer use, awareness, acceptability and applications in different aspects of Nigerian’s life cannot be said without mentioning one of the pioneers, Chief Don Etiebet, the Chairman of Data Sciences Nigeria Limited. His dream of computerising Nigeria and making ICT a lifestyle in the country has been fulfilled
Dignitaries at the occasion were: former Minister of Communication, Chief Olawale Ige; Executive Director, Human Resources, Exxom Mobil Nigeria, Mr. Udom Inoyo; Provost, College of Fellows, Nigeria Computer Society, Professor Adenike Osofisan; former Professor of Computer Science, Obafemi Awolowo University, Ile-Ife, Professor Adebayo Akinde; Chairman/Chief Executive Officer, Zinox Technologies Limited, Mr. Leo Stan Ekeh; and Chief of Staff/Editor at Large, THISDAY Newspapers, Mr. Ayo Arowolo. Others were: Chief Executive Officer, Eto Investments, Mr. Charles Onyeukwu; Chairman, Energy Equity Resources Limited, Dr. Godswill Ihetu; Founder, Centre for Values in Leadership/Host, Professor Pat Utomi; former President, Institute of Software Practitioners of Nigeria, Dr. Chris Uwaje; Chief Executive Officer, InfoSoft Nigeria Limited, Dr. Pius Okigbo; Managing Director, Oil and Gas Free Zone Authority, Obong Umana Okon Umana; Co-founder, Newswatch Magazine, Mr. Ray Ekpu; and Group Managing Director, SO & U Group, Mr. Udeme Ufot; among others. The occasion offered them the opportunity to recount Etiebet’s contributions towards the development of ICT in the country while pouring encomiums on him. They also brainstormed on how best to radically grow the industry for the country’s economic development. Born September 15, 1944 in Ekot Ekpuk,
Oruk Anang Local Government Area of Akwa Ibom State, Etiebet bagged a B.Sc (Special) Honours, Second Class Upper Division in Petroleum Technology from the famous Imperial College of Science and Technology, London, England. He did his M.Sc degree in Applied Geophysics from the University of Western Ontario, Canada, before returning to his dear country in September 1971 with great knowledge in mineral and oil prospecting techniques and computer programming. Dawned on him that indigenous expertise and companies in the mineral and oil prospecting sector were in short supply in the country, he established Earth Sciences Limited, an indigenous company involved in geophysical prospecting and computer data processing services. In 1994, he set up a computer centre at his Yaba office for geophysical data processing consisting of offline Calcomp Plotters, Magnetic Tape Readers and IBM Punch Card Readers. Also, in 1997, the father of Nigerian ICT founded Data Sciences Nigeria Limited, to market, install, sell, and maintain computer system and to train people in different areas of computer use, application and operation. Today, the company boasts of being instrumental in the growth of many Nigerians who have come in contact with it. Through Data Sciences, Etiebet became the first person to pioneer data communication techniques in Nigeria.
T H I S D AY ˾ FRIDAY, OCTOBER 20, 2017
41
CITYSTRINGS He was one of the first three computer professionals that initiated and founded the Computer Association of Nigeria in 1978 which is known today as the Nigeria Computer Society where he is a fellow, the highest rank in the profession. The IT idol was instrumental in the formation of several associations related to ICT and, till date, is a major stakeholder in all of them. For his immense contribution to the industry, he has been recognised by different bodies through accolades, appointments and awards, chief among them are the conferment of the title of ‘Father of ICT Industry’ on him by various ICT organisations and publications; the ICT Lifetime Achievement Award (Computers), by the Nigerian Information Society; Member, American Association of Petroleum Geologists, USA; and Member, Royal School of Miners, London. He holds the title of the Commander Order of the Niger (CON) having served as a Minster of Energy. Etiebet’s philanthropy and love for his people of Annang, earned him the titled of ‘Atu-Ekong Annang’ (the fighter of the Annang people) by the people of Annang, a tribe of about two million people in Akwa Ibom State. He also holds the title of ‘Obong Unwana Akwa Ibom’ (one that brings development and light to his state) which was jointly conferred on him by all the 31 traditional rulers in the state – a title that has never been held by anyone in the state except him. In his welcome address at the occasion, Utomi stated that the world has in a more recent time become a VUCA world – a world he explained as volatile, uncertain, complex and ambiguous. “But it is a world more prosperous, much safer, in spite of how things seem,” he said. He added: “Critical to this order is the role information and communications technology has played in raising productivity, enhanced creativity and values creation and made it possible to hold power accountable through systems like Freedom of Information project.” Utomi said: “As we celebrate one of the early champions of IT in Nigeria, the remarkable Don Etiebet, we are reminded that this technology still has room to help us leapfrog and offer a better life for the people of Nigeria and generations yet to be born.” He said even though the world is a VUCA world, it takes technology to grow information and build knowledge that enable navigation through that VUCA world. He also used the occasion to announce the plan of the Centre to produce a television documentary and a compendium on the evolution and memories of ICT industry in Nigeria, and to erect a website for the makers of the Nigerian ICT revolution. He said the cost of the project stood at N500, 000, 000, and called for support to enable them accomplish the project. In her remarks, the Provost, College of Fellows, Nigeria Computer Society (NCS), Professor Adenike Osofisan, said the country must go back to the basics if it truly wants to revolutionalise ICT and tap into the potentials of the sector, noting that, children from their young ages should be exposed to IT practical. “We must begin to train our children in the act of programming because it’s all about artificial intelligence. All the toys that our children play with from the kindergarten should be IT-based even though they may not understand what they are doing. We must train youths to contribute their quota in the ICT sector. Government needs to emulate the example of U.S. in developing the sector especially investing in the education of ICT,” she added. Osofisan congratulated Etiebet, who she said showed them the way in the ICT industry. Also speaking, former Professor of Computer Science at the Obafemi Awolowo University, Ile-Ife, Most Rev. Adebayo Akinde, pointed out that on major problem he perceived in the country’s educational sector that has been making ICT difficult to develop at a high speed is the disconnect between knowledge and skill given to students. “When you impart knowledge to them they catch the principles; they can retain what they learn. But it’s a different thing when it comes to doing and there is the need for us to look at the educational sector and not just
A cross section of participants at the colloquium in honour of Chief Don Etiebet
R-L: Prof. Pat Utomi, Mrs. Imabong Etiebet, Chief Don Etiebet and Mr. Udeme Ufon, at the event
place emphasis on knowledge than the ability to do, experience and skill,” Akinde said. According to him, no nation develops especially in this century without solid credible technological foundation. “Nigeria cannot afford to be an exception. We will have to shout to the rooftops to powers that be, that instead of squandering money on cultural festivals, let us put our money beside science and technology,” he added. On his part, Chairman/Chief Executive Officer, Zinox Technologies Limited, Mr. Leo Stan Ekeh, said Nigeria can transit to where
As we celebrate one of the early champions of IT in Nigeria, the remarkable Don Etiebet, we are reminded that this technology still has room to help us leapfrog and offer a better life for the people of Nigeria and generations yet to be born
America is as cheap as possible if it can move into a digital culture, noting that, the country needs a very clever IT policy and digital lifestyle to move the economy forward. In a glowing tribute to Etiebet, Ekeh wondered where Nigeria would have been without the likes of Etiebet, who he described as a father in the industry. “We owe a lot to this oracle. Nigeria is forever indebted to you. You laid the foundation for us in the ICT and we are very proud of you. We are presenting you to Nigerians as the next President of the country,” Ekeh told Etiebet. Contributing to the discourse, Etiebet said establishment of technology parks in the country would play a key role in accelerating growth in the Information and Communication Technology (ICT) sector, calling on the federal government to intensify efforts in that regard. He said ICT is a tool that people should gain mastery of in order to carry out their tasks effectively, adding that it is very important to develop proper training to get users familiar with the basics such as coding. He explained that in software development, the challenge facing the sector is coding, urging the government to develop the minds of youths in computer coding. “If the youths are able to make breakthrough in coding, they will be able to translate the indigenous
languages to computer languages,” Etiebet said. He maintained that the business environment should be structured in a way that would allow civil servants to contribute to the growth of the sector. He said: “The education curriculum should be revised again to include compulsory training in mathematics. Individuals must be ready to invest in intelligent youths. We should introduce venture capitalism to Nigeria to encourage people. This is a process where individual comes up with an idea and he gives it to an investor to fund it, then the originator of the idea manages it and the proceeds from the investments are shared in an agreed ratio.” The celebrant described as great thing, the convergence of the industry’s experts at the occasion to brainstorm on e-government and how to move the economy of the country forward. “Everyone has to contribute towards developing the ICT industry,” he noted. Etiebet thanked the Centre for Values in Leadership for organising the colloquium in his honour and appreciated profusely, all the guests for coming to celebrate with him. He appreciated specially, his kinsmen who came all the way from Akwa Ibom State to join in felicitating with him, equally thanking members of the Nigeria Computer Society who presented a plaque to him.
T H I S D AY Ëž , ÍŻÍˇËœ 2017
42
BUSINESS/MONEYGUIDE
Finally, CBN Releases Guidelines for Watch-listing of Fraudsters, BVN Obinna Chima In exercise of its powers and in line with its desire to promote and facilitate the development of efficient and effective payment systems in the country, the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) yesterday issued the regulatory framework for the bank verification number (BVN) operations as well as for watch-list of fraudsters in the banking industry. The central bank disclosed this in a circular posted on its website yesterday. It explained that the initiative was also expected to deepen the electronic payment system. The framework also defined the establishment and operations of watch-list for the banking industry, to address the increas-
ing incidences, of frauds, with a view to engendering public confidence in the banking industry. The central bank in collaboration with the Bankers Committee had proactively embarked upon the deployment of a centralised bank verification system and launched the BVN in February, 2014. This was part of the overall strategy of ensuring effectiveness of the Know Your Customer (KYC) principles, and the promotion of a safe, reliable and efficient payments system. However, the central bank in the latest circular explained that the objectives of the regulatoryframework for both BVN and watch-list operations, among other things, are expected to clearly define the roles and
responsibilities of stakeholders; clearly define the operations of the BVN in the country; as well as to define access, usage and management of the BVN information, requirements and conditions. Furthermore, it is expected to provide a database of watchlisted individuals; to outline the process and operations of the watch-list; and deter fraud incidences in the banking industry. The watch-list comprises a database of bank customers’ identified by their BVNs, who had been involved in confirmed fraudulent activity in the banking industry in Nigeria. According to the central bank, a watch-listed individual shall not be allowed to enter a new relationship with any bank.
Dangote Cement Mulls Eurobond Issue Still interested in S’Africa’s PPC Dangote Cement is considering issuing Eurobond or a local debt issue and will make a decision towards the end of the year, its chief financial officer, Brian Egan said yesterday. Reuters quoted Egan to have said 70 per cent of the company’s N389 billion debt was short-term and from its parent firm, Dangote Industries Limited, saying that the company wanted to move away from that. He said the company, majority owned by Africa’s richest man Aliko Dangote, was probably leaning towards a eurobond
given that yields were falling and the naira currency was stablising. In a related development, Dangote Cement also said yesterday that it was still interested in acquiring South African rival PPC and would do a deal at the right price. It outgoing chief executive officer, Onne van der Weijde, who said this, revealed that PPC was a “good fit� for Dangote Cement, which is majority owned by Africa’s richest man, Aliko Dangote. “We are still very much interested at the right price.
cbn building
We think it’s a good fit and we certainly would like to do a deal,� Weijde said during an analysts’ call discussing its nine months earnings. Dangote Cement made an approach to PPC last month, but later withdrew, saying it did not want to get into a lengthy process with an uncertain outcome, Reuters quoted Weijde to have said, adding that the Nigerian company made an offer. PPC is already the subject of an all-share merger bid by local rival AfriSam that values it at $700 million.
Sigma Pensions Unveils New Product for Clients Ademola Babalola Ă“Ă˜ ĂŒĂ‹ĂŽĂ‹Ă˜ One of the leading Pension Fund Administrators (PFAs) in Nigeria, Sigma Pensions Limited has unveiled new innovations for its 690, 000 clients in the public, private and informal sectors. The Vice President, Business Development Division (West), Mrs. Mabel George, said at a forum organised by the organisation for Human Resources Managers and Pension Desk Officers in Ibadan that “Sigma Pensions has come up with new innovations to add value to the needs of retirees as at when due.â€? Parts of these include
optimal return on investment for the retirees to make sure that returns on investment for all funds are consistent and competitive including “our robust information technology platform through integrated software that incorporates all aspects of fund management, administration, fund valuation and portfolio data management.� While stressing that Sigma Pensions Limited was among the best five PFAs in the industry, George further disclosed that “Sigma is 100 per cent owned by Actis Golf Nigeria Limited (Actis Golf); a special purpose vehicle controlled by Actis GP LLP, a prominent private vehicle.�
With Sigma Pensions’ assets valued at over N310billion for a varied group of clients including over 690, 000 Retirement Savings Accounts (RSA) holders, George said the organisation was ready to further undertake a number of businesses aside Jigawa State, NNPC, CBN, NEXIM, SEC, etc, to the company’s existing track record of performance and acceptability. On the challenges confronting the industry, George said retirees accounts were not properly funded because monies are not released as at when due by the government, thus resulting in the retirees not being paid on time.
Coronation Merchant Bank Named‘Merchant Bank of theYear’ Ademola Babalola Ă“Ă˜ ĂŒĂ‹ĂŽĂ‹Ă˜ Coronation Merchant Bank said it emerged the ‘Merchant Bank of the Year’ at the 2017 edition of the Business Day Annual Banking Awards held in Lagos recently. In emerging as the winner in the award category, Coronation Merchant Bank, according to a statement, outperformed the three other merchant banks in the industry. Specifically, Coronation Merchant Bank led the pack in four out of the six award parameters to emerge as the ‘Merchant Bank of the Year.’ A review of the criteria for the award category showed
that Coronation Merchant Bank outstripped other nominees in the following key performance indicators: Profit After Tax (PAT), Loan Growth (LG), Return on Average Asset (ROAA) and Return on Average Equity (ROAE). Coronation Merchant Bank grew its PAT by 59.3 per cent in the year under review way ahead of the other banks. The statement also explained that the bank demonstrated industry leadership in loan growth, which it stated validated its support for the development of the nation’s economy. Over the past one year, Coronation Merchant Bank
grew its loan portfolio by 817.26 per cent. Receiving the award, the Bank’s Managing Director, Jimoh Abubakar dedicated the award to clients who provided the bank the opportunity to showcase its expertise and to the Bank’s employees whose commitment made Coronation Merchant Bank’s exceptional services and innovation evident. He added: “As a team of professionals with uncommon potentials, we are not only determined to become Africa’s premier investment bank, it is also our resolve to continuously create value for our customers, investors and other stakeholder groups.�
MARKET INDICATORS MONEY AND CREDIT STATISTICS
Ě™ Ěš
DECEMBER 2016 Broad Money (M2)
23,840,392.42
Ě‹Ě‹ Ă‹ĂœĂœĂ™ĂĄ Ă™Ă˜Ă?ĂŁ Ě™ ÍŻĚš
11,520,166.67
---- Currency Outside Banks
ÍŻËœÍśÍ°ÍŽËœÍ˛ÍŻÍłË›ÍˇÍŽ
---- Demand Deposits
ÍˇËœÍ´ÍˇÍˇËœÍľÍłÍŽË›ÍľÍ´
-- Quasi Money
12,320,225.75
Net Foreign Assets (NFA)
9,353,504.03
Net Domestic Assets(NDA)
ÍŻÍ˛ËœÍ˛ÍśÍ´ËœÍśÍśÍśË›ÍąÍˇ
Ě‹Ě‹ Ă?Ăž Ù×Ă?Ă?ÞÓĂ? ĂœĂ?ĂŽĂ“Ăž Ě™ Ěš
26,970,297.97
Ě‹Ě‹Ě‹Ě‹ ĂœĂ?ĂŽĂ“Ăž ÞÙ Ùà Ă?ĂœĂ˜Ă—Ă?Ă˜Ăž Ě™ Ă?Þ̚
4,595,579.89
Ě‹Ě‹Ě‹Ě‹ Ă?Ă—Ă™Ë? ĂœĂ?ĂŽĂ“Ăž ÞÙ Ùà Þ˛ Ě™ Ă?Þ̚ Ă–Ă?Ă?Ă?
ÍľËœÍ˛ÍąÍ´ËœÍˇÍŻÍľË›ÍľÍˇ
Ě‹Ě‹Ě‹Ě‹ Ă?Ă—Ă™Ë? Ă?ĂŽË› Ă‹Ă˜ĂŽ Ă“ĂœĂœĂ™Ăœ Ă?Ă?Ă™Ă&#x;Ă˜ĂžĂ? Ě™ Ěš
-2,841,337.90
Ě‹Ě‹Ě‹Ě‹ ĂœĂ?ĂŽĂ“Ăž ÞÙ ĂœĂ“Ă Ă‹ĂžĂ? Ă?Ă?ĂžĂ™Ăœ Ě™ Ěš
22,374,718.08
--Other Assets Net
-12,483,409.58
Reserve Money (Base Money)
ÍłËœÍśÍąÍľËœÍąÍ°Í°Ë›Í˛ÍŻ
Ě‹Ě‹ Ă&#x;ĂœĂœĂ?Ă˜Ă?ĂŁ Ă“Ă˜ Ă“ĂœĂ?Ă&#x;Ă–Ă‹ĂžĂ“Ă™Ă˜
Í°ËœÍŻÍľÍˇËœÍŻÍľÍ˛Ë›Í°Íś
Ě‹Ě‹ Ă‹Ă˜Ă•Ă? Ă?Ă?Ă?ĂœĂ Ă?Ă?
3,318,344.71 Ëž Ă™Ă&#x;ĂœĂ?Ă? Ě‹
MANAGED FUNDS Month
December 2016
Inter-Bank Call Rate
͎ͯ˛͹͡
Minimum Rediscount Rate (MRR) Monetary Policy Rate (MPR)
14.00
Treasury Bill Rate
ͯ͹˛͡ʹ
Savings Deposit Rate
4.18
1 Month Deposit Rate
͜˛ͳ͹
3 Months Deposit Rate
8.80
6 Months Deposit Rate
͎ͯ˛Ͱ͹
12 Months Deposit Rate
͎ͯ˛;ʹ
Prime Lending rate
ͯ;˛͎͡
Maximum Lending Rate
28.55 Ëž Ă™Ă˜Ă?ĂžĂ‹ĂœĂŁ ÙÖÓĂ?ĂŁ Ă‹ĂžĂ? Ě‹ ͯ͹Ϲ
OPEC DAILY BASKET PRICE AS AT, WED, 18 OCT 2017 TThe price of OPEC basket of fourteen crudes stood at $56.12 a barrel on Wednesday, compared with $55.83 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). SOURCE: OPEC headquarters, Vienna
T H I S D AY ˾ , OCTOBER 19, 2017
43
MARKET NEWS
Zenith Bank Grows Nine Months Profit by 36% to N130bn Goddy Egene and Nosa Alekhuogie Shareholders of Zenith Bank Plc should be expecting a bumper harvest at the end of 2017 financial year if the impressive performance recorded for the nine months ended September 30, 2017 is sustained. The results released yesterday showed growth in major per-
formance indicators despite the challenging operating environment. The bank recorded gross earnings of N531.3 billion, showing a growth of 39.7 per cent above the N380.4 billion posted in the corresponding period of 2016. Net interest income rose marginally by 6.2 per cent from N189.8 billion to N201.5 billion, while noninterest income surged by 123
T H E MAIN BOARD
DEALS
MARKET PRICE
per cent to N169.5 billion, from N94.7 billion. Still reflecting the challenges borrowers are facing in repayment of loans, the bank’s credit impairment charges rose by 115 per cent from N21.9 billion to N47.1 billion. Zenith Bank grew its profit before tax (PBT) by 30.8 per cent from N116.6 billion to N152.5 billion, while profit
N I G E R I A N QUANTITY TRADED
STO C K
VALUE TRADED ( N )
Daily Summary as of 22/02/2016 Printed 22/02/2016 14:36:10.010
Daily Summary (Bonds) No Debt Trading Activity Daily Summary (Equities) Activity Summary on Board EQTY AGRICULTURE Crop Production OKOMU OIL PALM PLC. PRESCO PLC Crop Production Totals Livestock/Animal Specialties LIVESTOCK FEEDS PLC. Livestock/Animal Specialties Totals AGRICULTURE Totals CONGLOMERATES Diversified Industries A.G. LEVENTIS NIGERIA PLC. TRANSNATIONAL CORPORATION OF NIGERIA PLC U A C N PLC. Diversified Industries Totals CONGLOMERATES Totals CONSTRUCTION/REAL ESTATE Infrastructure/Heavy Construction JULIUS BERGER NIG. PLC. Infrastructure/Heavy Construction Totals Real Estate Development UACN PROPERTY DEVELOPMENT CO. LIMITED Real Estate Development Totals CONSTRUCTION/REAL ESTATE Totals CONSUMER GOODS Beverages--Brewers/Distillers CHAMPION BREW. PLC. GUINNESS NIG PLC INTERNATIONAL BREWERIES PLC. NIGERIAN BREW. PLC. Beverages--Brewers/Distillers Totals Beverages--Non-Alcoholic 7-UP BOTTLING COMP. PLC. Beverages--Non-Alcoholic Totals Food Products DANGOTE SUGAR REFINERY PLC FLOUR MILLS NIG. PLC. HONEYWELL FLOUR MILL PLC NASCON ALLIED INDUSTRIES PLC N NIG. FLOUR MILLS PLC. TIGER BRANDED CONSUMER GOODS PLC Food Products Totals Food Products--Diversified CADBURY NIGERIA PLC. NESTLE NIGERIA PLC. Food Products--Diversified Totals Household Durables VITAFOAM NIG PLC. Household Durables Totals Personal/Household Products P Z CUSSONS NIGERIA PLC. UNILEVER NIGERIA PLC. Personal/Household Products Totals CONSUMER GOODS Totals FINANCIAL SERVICES Banking ACCESS BANK PLC. DIAMOND BANK PLC ECOBANK TRANSNATIONAL INCORPORATED FIDELITY BANK PLC GUARANTY TRUST BANK PLC. SKYE BANK PLC STERLING BANK PLC. UNITED BANK FOR AFRICA PLC UNION BANK NIG.PLC. UNITY BANK PLC WEMA BANK PLC. Banking Totals Insurance Carriers, Brokers and Services AIICO INSURANCE PLC. CONTINENTAL REINSURANCE PLC CONSOLIDATED HALLMARK INSURANCE PLC LASACO ASSURANCE PLC. AXAMANSARD INSURANCE PLC N.E.M INSURANCE CO (NIG) PLC. UNITY KAPITAL ASSURANCE PLC WAPIC INSURANCE PLC Insurance Carriers, Brokers and Services Totals Micro-Finance Banks NPF MICROFINANCE BANK PLC Micro-Finance Banks Totals Other Financial Institutions AFRICA PRUDENTIAL REGISTRARS PLC CUSTODIAN AND ALLIED PLC FCMB GROUP PLC. STANBIC IBTC HOLDINGS PLC UNITED CAPITAL PLC Other Financial Institutions Totals FINANCIAL SERVICES Totals HEALTHCARE Pharmaceuticals FIDSON HEALTHCARE PLC
6 6 12
30.00 34.00
19 19 31
after tax (PAT) grew faster by 36 per cent to N129.2 billion, compared with N95.4 billion in 2016. The bank enjoyed high customer loyalty and patronage as deposits grew from N2.6 trillion at the end of December 2016 to N3.1 trillion as at September. But loans and advances fell marginally by 2.6 per cent to N2.2 trillion,
12,629 11,640 24,269
374,530.15 421,345.20 795,875.35
1.25
1,078,511 1,078,511 1,102,780
1,358,964.30 1,358,964.30 2,154,839.65
5 68 13 86 86
0.77 1.13 20.47
33,500 6,740,423 65,995 6,839,918 6,839,918
25,070.00 7,635,453.96 1,344,425.15 9,004,949.11 9,004,949.11
13 13
41.50
31,970 31,970
1,409,214.78 1,409,214.78
5 5 18
5.20
28,901 28,901 60,871
154,716.48 154,716.48 1,563,931.26
6 24 7 98 135
2.85 118.85 20.00 99.00
190,900 53,000 15,200 429,541 688,641
528,079.00 6,201,924.95 293,757.00 42,728,789.84 49,752,550.79
9 9
168.50
166,476 166,476
28,285,937.95 28,285,937.95
54 38 6 12 1 29 140
5.61 19.00 1.37 6.86 6.65 1.27
2,120,306 314,421 40,000 119,863 433 3,285,739,119 3,288,334,142
11,610,520.13 5,953,792.96 55,716.00 842,442.48 2,736.56 4,074,348,894.07 4,092,814,102.20
11 54 65
17.86 700.00
18,825 98,360 117,185
329,518.50 68,567,962.00 68,897,480.50
11 11
4.46
99,050 99,050
420,455.00 420,455.00
13 21 34 394
21.90 28.00
36,887 133,117 170,004 3,289,575,498
820,034.75 3,737,067.92 4,557,102.67 4,244,727,629.11
82 51 21 25 200 41 16 147 11 15 67 676
4.10 1.49 15.60 1.21 16.70 1.07 1.76 2.95 5.30 0.63 0.98
3,962,506 2,163,396 278,470 790,900 4,847,312 1,969,858 1,204,932 8,586,418 39,752 501,617 5,920,564 30,265,725
16,210,255.82 3,314,106.88 4,136,459.40 958,864.34 80,963,793.44 2,115,552.11 2,087,767.85 25,302,954.71 205,645.40 316,018.71 5,813,502.17 141,424,920.83
14 8 2 3 7 10 1 1 46
0.80 0.90 0.50 0.50 2.06 0.76 0.50 0.50
200,107 276,500 5,004,000 1,000,000 351,540 327,285 37,708,135 10 44,867,577
160,838.67 251,350.00 2,502,000.00 500,000.00 720,728.80 245,325.31 18,854,067.50 5.00 23,234,315.28
1 1
1.08
4,760 4,760
4,950.40 4,950.40
31 7 105 7 20 170 893
2.46 4.00 0.85 14.15 1.31
1,149,464 27,041 31,257,120 38,035 708,255 33,179,915 108,317,977
2,830,722.84 104,002.06 26,613,309.20 537,985.34 931,556.31 31,017,575.75 195,681,762.26
27
2.69
614,065
1,572,223.05
from N2.4 trillion. Total assets stood at N5.1 trillion, up from N4.6 trillion in December 2016. Shareholders of Zenith Bank received an interim of N7.8 billion for the half year (H1) ended June 30, 2017. The dividend translates to 25 kobo per share. The Chairman of Zenith Bank Plc, Mr. Jim Ovia had told shareholders last March that
in line with its commitment to delivering superior returns to its much-valued shareholders, the bank ensured that a good chunk of the profit was set aside for shareholders. According to him, even in the face of a very challenging operating environment, Zenith Bank has maintained its culture of outstanding performance and industry leadership.
E XC H A N G E
MAIN BOARD GLAXO SMITHKLINE CONSUMER NIG. PLC. MAY & BAKER NIGERIA PLC. NEIMETH INTERNATIONAL PHARMACEUTICALS PLC Pharmaceuticals Totals HEALTHCARE Totals ICT IT Services TRIPPLE GEE AND COMPANY PLC. IT Services Totals ICT Totals INDUSTRIAL GOODS Building Materials ASHAKA CEM PLC BERGER PAINTS PLC CAP PLC CEMENT CO. OF NORTH.NIG. PLC PORTLAND PAINTS & PRODUCTS NIGERIA PLC LAFARGE AFRICA PLC. Building Materials Totals Electronic and Electrical Products CUTIX PLC. Electronic and Electrical Products Totals Packaging/Containers BETA GLASS CO PLC. Packaging/Containers Totals INDUSTRIAL GOODS Totals OIL AND GAS Energy Equipment and Services JAPAUL OIL & MARITIME SERVICES PLC Energy Equipment and Services Totals Integrated Oil and Gas Services OANDO PLC Integrated Oil and Gas Services Totals Petroleum and Petroleum Products Distributors CONOIL PLC ETERNA PLC. FORTE OIL PLC. MOBIL OIL NIG PLC. TOTAL NIGERIA PLC. Petroleum and Petroleum Products Distributors Totals Exploration and Production SEPLAT PETROLEUM DEVELOPMENT COMPANY LTD Exploration and Production Totals OIL AND GAS Totals SERVICES Automobile/Auto Part Retailers R T BRISCOE PLC. Automobile/Auto Part Retailers Totals Courier/Freight/Delivery RED STAR EXPRESS PLC Courier/Freight/Delivery Totals Printing/Publishing LEARN AFRICA PLC Printing/Publishing Totals Transport-Related Services AIRLINE SERVICES AND LOGISTICS PLC NIGERIAN AVIATION HANDLING COMPANY PLC Transport-Related Services Totals Support and Logistics CAVERTON OFFSHORE SUPPORT GRP PLC Support and Logistics Totals SERVICES Totals EQTY Board Totals Daily Summary (Equities) Activity Summary on Board ASeM CONSUMER GOODS Food Products MCNICHOLS PLC Food Products Totals CONSUMER GOODS Totals ASeM Board Totals Daily Summary (Equities) Activity Summary on Board PREMIUM FINANCIAL SERVICES Banking ZENITH INTERNATIONAL BANK PLC Banking Totals Other Financial Institutions FBN HOLDINGS PLC Other Financial Institutions Totals FINANCIAL SERVICES Totals INDUSTRIAL GOODS Building Materials DANGOTE CEMENT PLC Building Materials Totals INDUSTRIAL GOODS Totals PREMIUM Board Totals Equity Activity Totals
DEALS
MARKET PRICE
QUANTITY TRADED
VALUE TRADED ( N)
32 4 6 69 69
25.33 0.94 0.69
551,998 16,020 597,000 1,779,083 1,779,083
13,903,164.18 15,299.40 412,110.00 15,902,796.63 15,902,796.63
1 1 1
1.69
500 500 500
805.00 805.00 805.00
16 9 4 6 10 31 76
24.00 9.30 35.78 8.62 3.36 80.50
110,727 40,229 26,700 142,300 299,900 14,373,223 14,993,079
2,707,053.97 362,501.29 992,680.00 1,227,076.00 966,480.00 1,157,057,077.16 1,163,312,868.42
6 6
1.51
134,500 134,500
204,240.00 204,240.00
5 5 87
50.00
24,529 24,529 15,152,108
1,165,135.50 1,165,135.50 1,164,682,243.92
2 2
0.50
24,262 24,262
12,131.00 12,131.00
90 90
3.47
3,827,573 3,827,573
13,288,632.05 13,288,632.05
21 7 8 21 7 64
18.34 1.84 342.00 150.00 145.00
81,125 100,300 20,300 16,295 13,699 231,719
1,505,034.50 182,832.00 6,595,470.00 2,396,080.60 1,959,692.96 12,639,110.06
33 33 189
318.00
389,934 389,934 4,473,488
124,037,602.56 124,037,602.56 149,977,475.67
1 1
0.50
941 941
470.50 470.50
5 5
3.80
32,870 32,870
127,756.40 127,756.40
13 13
0.89
624,500 624,500
538,430.00 538,430.00
1 22 23
2.29 4.00
4,588 251,094 255,682
10,001.84 1,001,583.80 1,011,585.64
1 1 43 1,811
1.68
10,000 10,000 923,993 3,428,226,216
16,000.00 16,000.00 1,694,242.54 5,785,390,675.15
2 2 2 2
1.21
270,464 270,464 270,464 270,464
327,261.44 327,261.44 327,261.44 327,261.44
306 306
11.45
13,929,679 13,929,679
159,605,439.23 159,605,439.23
278 278 584
3.74
10,438,552 10,438,552 24,368,231
39,515,087.18 39,515,087.18 199,120,526.41
35 35 35 619 2,432
139.83
38,770 38,770 38,770 24,407,001 3,452,903,681
5,304,666.00 5,304,666.00 5,304,666.00 204,425,192.41 5,990,143,129.00
2 2 2 2 2 10 10 10
2,330.00 2.33 6.02 11.09 18.07
3,000 20 20 20 15 3,075 3,075 3,075
6,986,000.00 46.70 120.20 221.80 270.65 6,986,659.35 6,986,659.35 6,986,659.35
Daily Summary (ETP) Exchange Traded Fund Name NEWGOLD EXCHANGE TRADED FUND (ETF) VETIVA BANKING ETF VETIVA CONSUMER GOODS ETF VETIVA GRIFFIN 30 ETF VETIVA INDUSTRIAL ETF Exchange Traded Fund Totals ETF Board Totals ETP Activity Totals
44
˾ FRIDAY, OCTOBER 20, 2017
Nigeria Daily Stock Market Report:
T o p 10 T r a d e s b y V o lu m e
T o p 10 G a ine rs
ƋƵŝƟĞƐ DĂƌŬĞƚ ůŽƐĞƐ DĂƌŐŝŶĂůůLJ ,ŝŐŚĞƌ͘͘͘ E^ ^/ ƵƉ ϭďƉ ŌĞƌ ƚǁŽ ĐŽŶƐĞĐƵƟǀĞ ƐĞƐƐŝŽŶƐ ŽĨ ůŽƐƐĞƐ͕ ƚŚĞ EŝŐĞƌŝĂŶ ďŽƵƌƐĞ ƌĞďŽƵŶĚĞĚ ĂƐ ƚŚĞ ůů ^ŚĂƌĞ /ŶĚĞdž ƌŽƐĞ ŵĂƌŐŝŶĂůůLJ ďLJ ϭďƉ ƚŽ ĐůŽƐĞ Ăƚ ϯϲ͕ϲϰϱ͘ϲϱ ƉŽŝŶƚƐ ǁŚŝůĞ zd ƌĞƚƵƌŶ ŝŵƉƌŽǀĞĚ ŵĂƌŐŝŶĂůůLJ ƚŽ ϯϲ͘ϰй͘ dŽĚĂLJ͛Ɛ ƉĞƌĨŽƌŵĂŶĐĞ ǁĂƐ ďƵŽLJĞĚ ďLJ ƉƌŝĐĞ ĂƉƉƌĞĐŝĂƟŽŶƐ ŝŶ ^d E / ;нϮ͘ϲйͿ ĂŶĚ /Ed Z t ;нϱ͘ϬйͿ͘ ^ŝŵŝůĂƌůLJ͕ ŵĂƌŬĞƚ ĐĂƉŝƚĂůŝnjĂƟŽŶ ŝŶĐŚĞĚ ŚŝŐŚĞƌ ďLJ Eϭ͘ϰďŶ ƚŽ ĐůŽƐĞ Ăƚ EϭϮ͘ϲƚŶ ǁŚŝůĞ ǀŽůƵŵĞ ĂŶĚ ǀĂůƵĞ ƚƌĂĚĞĚ ĚĞĐůŝŶĞĚ Ϯϵ͘ϭй ĂŶĚ ϰϭ͘ϯй ƚŽ ƐĞƩůĞ Ăƚ ϭϰϬ͘ϵŵ ƵŶŝƚƐ ĂŶĚ Eϭ͘ϳďŶ ƌĞƐƉĞĐƟǀĞůLJ͘
T ic k er
P rice
P rice Chg %
Vo lum e
P ric e C hg %
C UT IX
2.37
7.7%
UB A
30.6
-2.3%
46.52
5.0%
ST ER LN B A N K
15.7
3.0%
F ID SON
3.59
5.0%
GUA R A N T Y
15.3
0.0%
B OCGA S
3.96
4.8%
Z EN IT H B A N K
14.0
-0.2%
INT B REW
T ic k er
1.41
4.4%
SKYEB A N K
9.1
4.0%
0.52
4.0%
F ID ELIT YB K
7.7
-4.7%
GLA XOSM IT H
24.00
3.7%
T R A N SC OR P
7.3
-0.7%
ST ERLN B A NK
1.03
3.0%
FB NH
7.0
-0.8%
CUST ODYINS
3.78
3.0%
FCM B
4.0
0.0%
CA DB URY
10.50
2.9%
A C C ESS
3.9
0.0%
P rice
P rice Chg %
T ic k er
Value
M A NSA RD
2.36
-4.8%
GUA R A N T Y
636.9
0.0%
CILEA SING
1.81
-4.7%
Z EN IT H B A N K
368.5
-0.2%
F ID ELIT YB K
1.41
-4.7%
UB A
275.0
-2.3%
-4.5%
N EST LE
69.2
0.0%
46.00
-4.2%
NB
49.8
-0.3%
0.74
-3.9%
FB NH
42.7
-0.8%
37.4
0.0% -0.5%
NEM SKYEB A NK
DŝdžĞĚ WĞƌĨŽƌŵĂŶĐĞ ĂĐƌŽƐƐ ^ĞĐƚŽƌƐ
T o p 10 T r a d e s b y V a lu e
T o p 10 L o s e rs
^ĞĐƚŽƌ ƉĞƌĨŽƌŵĂŶĐĞ ǁĂƐ ŵŝdžĞĚ ĂƐ ŽĨ ƚŚĞ ϱ ŝŶĚŝĐĞƐ ƵŶĚĞƌ ŽƵƌ ǁĂƚĐŚ͕ ϯ ǁĞƌĞ ŶĞŐĂƟǀĞ͕ ϭ ĐůŽƐĞĚ ƉŽƐŝƟǀĞ ĂŶĚ ƚŚĞ ŽƚŚĞƌ ŇĂƚ͘ dŚĞ /ŶƐƵƌĂŶĐĞ ŝŶĚĞdž ůĞĚ ůŽƐĞƌƐ͕ ĚŽǁŶ ϭ͘ϯй ŽŶ ĂĐĐŽƵŶƚ ŽĨ ůŽƐƐĞƐ ŝŶ D E^ Z ;Ͳϰ͘ϴйͿ ĂŶĚ // K ;Ͳϯ͘ϰйͿ͘ dŚĞ Kŝů Θ 'ĂƐ ŝŶĚĞdž ƚƌĂŝůĞĚ͕ ĐůŽƐŝŶŐ Ϭ͘ϱй ůŽǁĞƌ ĚƵĞ ƚŽ Ă ĚĞĐůŝŶĞ ŝŶ &KZd K/> ;Ͳϰ͘ϮйͿ͘ ^ŝŵŝůĂƌůLJ͕ ƚŚĞ ĂŶŬŝŶŐ ŝŶĚĞdž ĨĞůů Ϭ͘ϯй ĨŽůůŽǁŝŶŐ ƐƵƐƚĂŝŶĞĚ ƉƌŽĮƚ ƚĂŬŝŶŐ ŝŶ h ;ͲϮ͘ϯйͿ ĂŶĚ E/d, ;ͲϬ͘ϮйͿ͘ ZĞůĂƚĞĚůLJ͕ E/d, ƌĞůĞĂƐĞĚ ŝƚƐ ϵD͗ϮϬϭϳ ƌĞƐƵůƚ ƚŽĚĂLJ͖ 'ƌŽƐƐ ĞĂƌŶŝŶŐƐ ŐƌĞǁ ϯϵ͘ϳй zͲŽͲz ƚŽ Eϱϯϭ͘ϬďŶ ĨƌŽŵ EϯϴϬ͘ϰďŶ ŝŶ ϵD͗ϮϬϭϲ ǁŚŝůĞ W d ŝŵƉƌŽǀĞĚ ϯϱ͘ϲй zͲŽͲz ƚŽ EϭϮϵ͘ϯďŶ ĨƌŽŵ Eϵϱ͘ϰďŶ ŝŶ ϵD͗ϮϬϭϲ͘ ŽŶƚƌĂƌŝůLJ͕ ƚŚĞ ŽŶƐƵŵĞƌ 'ŽŽĚƐ ŝŶĚĞdž ǁĂƐ ƚŚĞ ůŽŶĞ ŐĂŝŶĞƌ͕ ĂƉƉƌĞĐŝĂƟŶŐ Ϭ͘Ϯй ŽŶ ĂĐĐŽƵŶƚ ŽĨ ŐĂŝŶƐ ƌĞĐŽƌĚĞĚ ŝŶ /Ed Z t ;нϱ͘ϬйͿ ĂŶĚ E'^h' Z ;нϭ͘ϭйͿ ǁŚŝůĞ ƚŚĞ /ŶĚƵƐƚƌŝĂů 'ŽŽĚƐ ŝŶĚĞdž ĐůŽƐĞĚ ŇĂƚ͘ E' D ĂůƐŽ ƌĞůĞĂƐĞĚ ŝƚƐ ϵD͗ϮϬϭϳ ƌĞƐƵůƚ ƚŽĚĂLJ͖ 'ƌŽƐƐ ƌĞǀĞŶƵĞ ĂŶĚ W d ĂƉƉƌĞĐŝĂƚĞĚ ϯϲ͘ϱй ĂŶĚ ϰϰ͘ϲй ƚŽ EϲϬϯ͘ϲďŶ ĂŶĚ Eϭϵϯ͘ϭďŶ ƌĞƐƉĞĐƟǀĞůLJ ŝŶ ϵD͗ϮϬϭϳ
T ic k er
LINKA SSURE FO LA WUNION F IRST A LUM
0.50
-3.8%
UNIT YB NK
0.52
-3.7%
ET I
24.3
dŚŝƐ ĂLJ ĨƌŝŶǀĞƐƚ /ŶĚĞdž ^ŚĞĚƐ Ϭ͘ϭй dŚĞ dŚŝƐ ĂLJ ĨƌŝŶǀĞƐƚ /ŶĚĞdž ĞdžƚĞŶĚĞĚ ůŽƐƐĞƐ ƚŽ ƚŚĞ ƚŚŝƌĚ ĐŽŶƐĞĐƵƟǀĞ ƐĞƐƐŝŽŶ ǁŝƚŚ Ă ϭϬďƉƐ ĚĞĐůŝŶĞ Ăƚ ƚŚĞ ĐůŽƐĞ ŽĨ ƚƌĂĚŝŶŐ ŽŶ dŚƵƌƐĚĂLJ͘ ĐĐŽƌĚŝŶŐůLJ͕ zd ƌĞƚƵƌŶ ŽĨ ƚŚĞ /ŶĚĞdž ŵŽĚĞƌĂƚĞĚ ƚŽ ϰϴ͘ϰй͘ zĞƐƚĞƌĚĂLJ͛Ɛ ƉĞƌĨŽƌŵĂŶĐĞ ǁĂƐ ĚƌĂŐŐĞĚ ďLJ ĐŽŶƟŶƵĞĚ ĚĞĐůŝŶĞƐ ŝŶ E/d, ;ͲϬ͘ϮйͿ͕ h ;ͲϮ͘ϯйͿ ĂŶĚ & E, ;ͲϬ͘ϴйͿ͘
0.57
-3.4%
D A N GSUGA R
20.7
1.1%
UB A
8.85
-2.3%
WA P C O
20.5
0.0%
THISDAY AFRINVEST 40 INDEX Fundamental Performance Metrics for THISDAY AFRINVEST 40 Index
THISDAY AFRINVEST 40 1
Guaranty Trust Bank PLC
2
Nigerian Brew eries PLC
3
Zenith Bank PLC
4
Dangote Cement PLC
'ƵĂƌĂŶƚLJ dƌƵƐƚ WůĐ ;͞'d ĂŶŬ͟ Žƌ ͞ƚŚĞ ĂŶŬ͟Ϳ ƌĂŶŬƐ ĂƐ Ă dŝĞƌͲϭ ĂŶŬ͕ ďĂƐĞĚ ŽŶ ƚŽƚĂů ĂƐƐĞƚƐ ŽĨ Eϯ͘ϮƚŶ ĂƐ Ăƚ ϵD͗ϮϬϭϳ ďLJ ĨƌŝŶǀĞƐƚ ĐůĂƐƐŝĮĐĂƟŽŶ͕ ĂŶĚ ĂůƐŽ Ă ^LJƐƚĞŵŝĐĂůůLJ /ŵƉŽƌƚĂŶƚ ĂŶŬ ;^/ ƐͿ ďLJ E͛Ɛ dĂdžŽŶŽŵLJ͘ dŚĞ ĂŶŬ ƌĞůĞĂƐĞĚ ŝƚƐ ϵD͗ϮϬϭϳ ƵŶĂƵĚŝƚĞĚ ŐƌŽƵƉ ĮŶĂŶĐŝĂů ƐƚĂƚĞŵĞŶƚ ŽŶ ϭϴƚŚ KĐƚŽďĞƌ͕ϮϬϭϳ ŝŶ ǁŚŝĐŚ 'ƌŽƐƐ ĞĂƌŶŝŶŐƐ ĨĞůů ďLJ ϱ͘ϵй zͲŽͲz ƚŽ EϯϬϵ͘ϵďŶ ĂƐ ƚŚĞ ŝŵƉĂĐƚ ŽĨ ƚŚĞ ϯϲ͘ϱй ũƵŵƉ ŝŶ /ŶƚĞƌĞƐƚ ŝŶĐŽŵĞ ;ĨƌŽŵ Eϭϴϭ͘ϵďŶ ŝŶ ϵD͗ϮϬϭϲ ƚŽEϮϰϴ͘ϯďŶͿ ǁĂƐ ĐŽƵŶƚĞƌĞĚ ďLJ Ă ϱϴ͘Ϯй ĚƌĂŐ ŝŶ EŽŶͲ/ŶƚĞƌĞƐƚ ŝŶĐŽŵĞ ;ĨƌŽŵ Eϭϰϳ͘ϰďŶ ŝŶ ϵD͗ϮϬϭϲ ƚŽ Eϲϭ͘ϲďŶ ŝŶ ϵD͗ϮϬϭϳͿ͘ /ŶƚĞƌĞƐƚ /ŶĐŽŵĞ ǁĂƐ ƐƵƉƉŽƌƚĞĚ ďLJ ƚŚĞ ŚŝŐŚĞƌ ŝŶƚĞƌĞƐƚ ƌĂƚĞ ĞŶǀŝƌŽŶŵĞŶƚ ǁŚŝůĞ EŽŶͲ ŝŶƚĞƌĞƐƚ ŝŶĐŽŵĞ ƐƵīĞƌĞĚ ĨƌŽŵ Ă ŚŝŐŚ ďĂƐĞ ŝŵƉĂĐƚ ŽŶ &y ŐĂŝŶƐ ĂƐ ǁĞůů ĂƐ Ă ĚĞĐůŝŶĞ ŝŶ ĞͲďƵƐŝŶĞƐƐ ŝŶĐŽŵĞ͘ /ŵƉĂŝƌŵĞŶƚ ĐŚĂƌŐĞƐ ŝŵƉƌŽǀĞĚ ƐŝŐŶŝĮĐĂŶƚůLJ͕ ĚŽǁŶ ϴϱ͘ϰй ƚŽ Eϴ͘ϰďŶ ĨƌŽŵ Eϱϳ͘ϭďŶ͘ Ɛ Ă ƌĞƐƵůƚ͕ ŽƐƚ ŽĨ ZŝƐŬ ŵŽĚĞƌĂƚĞĚ ƚŽ Ϭ͘ϲй ĨƌŽŵ ϯ͘ϲй ŝŶ ϵD͗ϮϬϭϳ ͘ ŽŶƐĞƋƵĞŶƚůLJ͕ W d ĐĂŵĞ ŝŶ ŚŝŐŚĞƌ Ăƚ EϭϮϱ͘ϲďŶ͕ ƵƉ ϳ͘ϯй zͲŽͲz͘ ĞƐƉŝƚĞ ƚŚĞ ŝŵƉƌŽǀĞŵĞŶƚ ƌĞĐŽƌĚĞĚ ŝŶ ƉƌŽĮƚĂďŝůŝƚLJ͕ ZK ĂŶĚ ZK ǁĞĂŬĞŶĞĚ ƚŽ Ϯϱ͘ϵй ĂŶĚ ϰ͘ϰй ŝŶ ϵD͗ϮϬϭϳ ĨƌŽŵ ϯϭ͘ϴй ĂŶĚ ϱ͘ϭй ŝŶ ϵD͗ϮϬϭϲ ƌĞƐƉĞĐƟǀĞůLJ͘ KƵƌ KƵƚůŽŽŬ ŽŶ 'd ĂŶŬ ƌĞŵĂŝŶƐ ƉŽƐŝƟǀĞ ĂƐ ƚŚĞ ĂŶŬ ŚĂƐ ƐŚŽǁŶ ƌĞƐŝůŝĞŶĐĞ ŝŶ ĞĂƌŶŝŶŐƐ ĐĂƉĂďŝůŝƚLJ ŽǀĞƌ ƟŵĞ͘ tĞ ĞdžƉĞĐƚ͕ ƚŚĞ ĂŶŬ͛Ɛ ƉĞƌĨŽƌŵĂŶĐĞ ƚŽ ƌĞŵĂŝŶ ƐƚƌŽŶŐ ŝŶ Yϰ ĚƵĞ ƚŽ ŝƚƐ ĨŽĐƵƐ ŽŶ ĐŽƐƚ ĞĸĐŝĞŶĐLJ͘ 'dďĂŶŬ ŝƐ ƚƌĂĚŝŶŐ Ăƚ Ă Wͬ s ŽĨ Ϯ͘ϭdž͕ ĂďŽǀĞ ƉĞĞƌ ĂǀĞƌĂŐĞ ŽĨ Ϭ͘ϵy ǁŚŝĐŚ ƐŝŐŶŝĮĞƐ ƚŚĞ ƉƌŝĐŝŶŐ ƉƌĞŵŝƵŵ ŝŶǀĞƐƚŽƌƐ ƉůĂĐĞ ŽŶ ƚŚĞ ƐƚŽĐŬ͘
(RC 603 315)
(A Dealing Member of the Nigerian Stock Exchange)
Current Price
Previous Price Change
1,484.32 41.70
Price Change Index to Date
Current Weighting
Price Change YTD
-0.1% 0.0%
48.4%
48.4%
20.3%
6.5%
7.4x
0.7x
4.3%
10.0%
22.8%
68.8%
68.8%
26.0%
4.3%
8.7x
2.1x
4.9%
11.5%
161.99
-0.3%
11.5%
9.5%
9.5%
19.4%
8.7%
38.9x
7.2x
2.2%
2.6%
26.25
-0.2%
13.9%
78.0%
78.0%
23.9%
3.4%
5.2x
1.1x
7.7%
19.3% 6.6%
ROE
ROA
P/E
P/BV
Divindend Yield
Earnings Yield
220.00
0.0%
6.2%
26.4%
26.4%
30.5%
15.3%
15.2x
4.6x
3.9%
0.0%
6.5%
48.2%
48.2%
64.1%
14.8%
39.7x
24.1x
0.8%
2.5%
0.0%
4.2%
61.8%
61.8%
15.8%
2.1%
3.9x
0.6x
6.8%
25.7% 25.8%
5
Nestle Nigeria PLC
1,200.27
6
Access Bank PLC
9.50
7
United Bank for Africa PLC
8.85
-2.3%
5.0%
96.7%
96.7%
17.2%
2.2%
3.9x
0.7x
8.5%
8
FBN Holdings Plc
6.01
-0.8%
3.9%
79.4%
79.4%
1.2%
0.2%
16.7x
0.4x
3.3%
6.0%
9
Ecobank Transnational Inc
17.50
-0.5%
3.0%
70.2%
70.2%
-14.5%
-1.3%
0.7x
3.5%
-19.8%
10
Lafarge Africa PLC
4.0x
1.9%
56.00
0.0%
2.0%
36.8%
36.8%
62.7%
11.8%
480.00
0.0%
1.8%
26.3%
26.3%
-12.4%
-6.7%
4.4x
0.6x
22.9%
11
SEPLAT Petroleum Development C
12
Unilever Nigeria PLC
44.00
0.0%
1.7%
38.3%
38.2%
46.6%
7.4%
30.0x
11.1x
0.2%
3.3%
13
Stanbic IBTC Holdings PLC
44.30
2.5%
3.2%
195.3%
195.3%
27.1%
3.2%
11.3x
2.8x
1.4%
8.9%
14
Guinness Nigeria PLC
101.00
0.0%
1.4%
28.5%
28.5%
4.5%
1.4%
71.1x
3.5x
0.6%
15
Oando PLC
5.99
0.0%
1.3%
27.4%
27.4%
31.7%
2.8%
4.8x
0.6x
16
Forte Oil PLC
46.00
-4.2%
0.5%
-45.5%
-45.5%
44.3%
3.7%
11.6x
5.1x
17
11 PLC
157.85
0.0%
0.4%
-43.4%
-43.4%
31.5%
10.9%
9.5x
2.6x
ŽŵƉĂŶLJ ŝŶ &ŽĐƵƐ͗ 'ƵĂƌĂŶƚLJ dƌƵƐƚ ĂŶŬ WůĐ͘ ;'d ĂŶŬͿ
P ric e C hg %
A IICO
Ticker
/ŶǀĞƐƚŽƌ ƐĞŶƟŵĞŶƚ ŝŵƉƌŽǀĞĚ ĂƐ ŵĂƌŬĞƚ ďƌĞĂĚƚŚ ƐĞƩůĞĚ Ăƚ ϭ͘Ϭdž ĨƌŽŵ Ϭ͘ϲdž ƌĞĐŽƌĚĞĚ ŽŶ tĞĚŶĞƐĚĂLJ͕ ĐŽŶƐĞƋƵĞŶƚ ŽŶ ϭϵ ƐƚŽĐŬƐ ĂĚǀĂŶĐŝŶŐ ĂŐĂŝŶƐƚ ϭϵ ĚĞĐůŝŶĞƌƐ͘ dŽĚĂLJ͛Ɛ ƚŽƉ ƉĞƌĨŽƌŵĞƌƐ ǁĞƌĞ hd/y ;нϳ͘ϳйͿ͕ /Ed Z t ;нϱ͘ϬйͿ ĂŶĚ &/ ^KE ;нϱ͘ϬйͿ ǁŚŝůĞ ƚŚĞ ǁŽƌƐƚ ƉĞƌĨŽƌŵŝŶŐ ƐƚŽĐŬƐ ǁĞƌĞ D E^ Z ;Ͳϰ͘ϴйͿ͕ /> ^/E' ;Ͳϰ͘ϳйͿ ĂŶĚ &/ >/dz ;Ͳϰ͘ϳйͿ͘ ĞƐƉŝƚĞ ƚŚĞ ƐůŝŐŚƚ ƌĞďŽƵŶĚ ƌĞĐŽƌĚĞĚ ƚŽĚĂLJ͕ ǁĞ ĞdžƉĞĐƚ ŵĂƌŬĞƚ ƉĞƌĨŽƌŵĂŶĐĞ ƚŽ ĐůŽƐĞ ƚŚĞ ǁĞĞŬ ŝŶ ƚŚĞ ƌĞĚ͘
0.84
A C C ESS
/ŶǀĞƐƚŽƌ ^ĞŶƟŵĞŶƚ ^ƚƌĞŶŐƚŚĞŶƐ
Afrinvest Securities Limited
Friday, October 20, 2017
-21.7%
1.4% 20.8% 8.6%
5.1%
10.5%
18
Total Nigeria PLC
245.00
-0.2%
0.6%
-18.1%
-18.1%
44.6%
8.2%
7.9x
3.2x
2.9%
12.6%
19
Okomu Oil Palm PLC
65.00
0.0%
1.1%
61.8%
61.8%
40.4%
28.1%
8.2x
2.8x
2.3%
12.2%
20
UAC of Nigeria PLC
16.95
0.0%
0.6%
0.8%
0.8%
5.9%
10.0%
21
Conoil PLC
28.00
0.0%
0.4%
-25.3%
-25.3%
11.8%
3.1%
1.0x
11.1%
11.4%
22
Fidelity Bank PLC
1.41
-4.7%
0.8%
67.9%
67.9%
7.0%
1.0%
3.1x
0.2x
9.9%
32.3%
1.1%
1.0%
135.8%
135.8%
23.8%
10.3%
7.2x
2.4x
3.5%
13.9%
10.0x 8.7x
23
Dangote Sugar Refinery PLC
14.41
24
Flour Mills of Nigeria PLC
29.20
0.0%
0.7%
57.9%
57.9%
7.8%
1.9%
9.8x
0.7x
3.4%
10.2%
3.78
3.0%
0.4%
-2.8%
-2.8%
20.3%
8.7%
3.7x
0.7x
7.4%
27.0%
25
Custodian and Allied Insurance
26
7 UP Bottling Co PLC
90.00
0.0%
0.3%
-30.2%
-30.2%
-56.7%
-13.9%
4.4x
27
Julius Berger Nigeria PLC
29.33
0.0%
0.3%
-24.0%
-24.0%
-12.2%
-1.2%
1.5x
28
FCMB Group Plc
1.07
0.0%
0.4%
-2.7%
-2.7%
0.9%
0.1%
12.5x
0.1x
29
Transnational Corp of Nigeria
1.40
-0.7%
0.6%
60.9%
60.9%
13.4%
3.0%
8.2x
1.0x
30
Diamond Bank PLC
-18.7% -7.8% 9.3%
8.0% 12.2%
1.10
0.0%
0.4%
25.0%
25.0%
1.6%
0.2%
6.6x
0.1x
0.0%
0.5%
69.6%
69.6%
53.3%
31.5%
2.8x
1.2x
2.2% 2.1%
15.1%
31
Presco PLC
68.00
32
PZ Cussons Nigeria PLC
24.00
0.0%
0.5%
65.5%
65.5%
11.5%
5.8%
20.5x
2.3x
33
International Brew eries PLC
46.52
5.0%
0.7%
151.5%
151.5%
29.4%
10.2%
37.1x
10.1x
34
Cadbury Nigeria PLC
10.50
2.9%
0.3%
2.0%
2.0%
-11.1%
-4.2%
1.9x
-5.5%
6.11
1.3%
0.3%
28.0%
28.1%
6.1%
1.3%
7.5x
0.4x
13.3%
32.50
0.0%
0.2%
1.6%
1.6%
84.3%
38.5%
14.2x
10.0x
1.03
3.0%
0.3%
35.5%
35.5%
5.5%
0.5%
6.1x
0.3x
35
Union Bank of Nigeria PLC
36
Chemical and Allied Products P
37
Sterling Bank PLC
35.7% 4.9% 2.7%
6.8%
7.0% 16.5%
38
GlaxoSmithKline Consumer Niger
24.00
3.7%
0.3%
52.4%
52.4%
61.4%
25.2%
4.7x
1.7x
1.3%
21.3%
39
AXA Mansard Insurance PLC
2.36
-4.8%
0.1%
41.3%
41.3%
11.9%
3.9%
11.8x
1.4x
2.1%
8.5%
Continental Reinsurance PLC
1.42
0.0%
0.1%
43.4%
43.4%
16.7%
7.9%
4.8x
0.8x
40
Investment Research
Brokerage Ayodeji Ebo | aebo@afrinvest.com
Robert Omotunde | romotunde@afrinvest.com
Bolaji Fajenyo | bfajenyo@afrinvest.com
Omotola Abimbola | oabimbola@afrinvest.com
20.7%
45
˾ FRIDAY, OCTOBER 20, 2017
MARKET NEWS
Stockbrokers Move to Embrace Technology, New Products Goddy Egene
the event is being packaged to help our theme for this year’s edition deepen the market and expand the titled, “Adapting to Dynamic Stockbrokers in the country are professional knowledge of the dealing Changes in the Financial Market.” Our choice of this year’s theme was stepping efforts to key into the members. According to her, as one of informed by the marked rapid pace rapid changes in technology and product innovation going on in the the most prestigious professional of innovations in the economy and global financial market so as to bodies in the Nigerian financial capital markets, which require position themselves for enhanced industry, CIS has, again, sought operators – both dealing members to elevate the all-important debate and the investing public, to keep professionalism . Speaking in Lagos ahead of of financial market development at abreast of these developments in the year’s annual stockbrokers’ the forthcoming conference slated order to make informed choices. “As businesses seek for conference organised by the for November 16 and 17 with the Chartered Institute of Stockbrokers aim of charting a course forward alternative ways to raise capital and investors look to further diversify (CIS), Chairman of Conference on policy alternatives. She said: “This is reflected in their portfolios from traditional Committee, Mrs. Lilian Olubi said A Mutual fund (Unit Trust) is an investment floor of the Nigerian Stock Exchange. vehicle managed by a SEC (Securities and A REIT (Real Estate Investment Trust) is an Exchange Commission) registered Fund Manager. investment vehicle that allows both small and Investors with similar objectives buy units of the large investors to part-own real estate ventures (eg. Fund so that the Fund Manager can buy securities Offices, Houses, Hospitals) in proportion to their that willl generate their desired return. investments. The assets are divided into shares that An ETF (Exchange Traded Fund) is a type are traded on the Nigerian Stock Exchange. of fund which owns the assets (shares of stock, bonds, oil futures, gold bars, foreign currency, GUIDE TO DATA: etc.) and divides ownership of those assets into Date: All fund prices are quoted in Naira as at 18shares. Investors can buy these ‘shares’ on the Oct-2017, unless otherwise stated.
assets, it has become imperative to participation whilst also developing encourage innovation of financial our finance professionals. “Also, advancement of products. For this reason, we would be discussing “Options/ technology in finance profession has strategies for deepening of our become imperative in improving local market through introduction investors’ experience and supporting of new products’ such as derivatives, efficiency drive of stockbrokers,” she commodities, Sukuk and alternative added. Speaking further, Olubi stated assets.” Olubi explained that that the Nigerian capital market had introduction of new products a lot of potential for deepening in will help deepen the market and terms of investment products and expand professional knowledge on private sector participation. Also speaking, the CIS’ First diverse investments products, thus encouraging more foreign investors’ Vice President, Mr. Tunde Amolegbe 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.
said: “The Nigerian Stock Exchange had been rolling out innovative products and are they getting to the end users or are the operators embracing them ? These are issues we shall tackle at the conference where operators, regulators and other stakeholders will discuss how market can be more beneficial to everybody.” Similarly, a member of Organising Committee, Mr. Akeem Oyewale explained that Nigeria’s economy was ripe for trading in derivatives.
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 176.97 177.88 39.43% Nigeria International Debt Fund 233.45 234.49 10.44% 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 16.24% ACAP Income Funds 0.61 0.61 74.94% 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 18.14% 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 17.48 18.01 41.58% ARM Discovery Fund 367.61 378.69 28.01% ARM Ethical Fund 25.77 26.54 15.33% ARM Money Market Fund 1.00 1.00 17.77% 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 146.14 147.16 38.94% AXA Mansard Money Market Fund 1.00 1.00 18.51% 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 19.04% Paramount Equity Fund 11.57 11.87 23.63% Women's Investment Fund 94.94 97.47 12.28% CORDROS ASSET MANAGEMENT LIMITED assetmgtteam@cordros.com Web: www.cordros.com, Tel: 019036947 Fund Name Bid Price Offer Price Yield / T-Rtn Cordros Money Market Fund 100.00 100.00 18.47% 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 1,100.84 1,101.92 8.73% FBN Heritage Fund 146.74 147.99 31.62% FBN Money Market Fund 100.00 100.00 17.83% FBN Nigeria Eurobond (USD) Fund - Institutional $111.46 $112.51 8.40% FBN Nigeria Eurobond (USD) Fund - Retail $110.71 $111.77 8.42% FBN Nigeria Smart Beta Equity Fund 155.30 157.56 37.93% 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 1.38 1.40 47.87% Legacy Short Maturity (NGN) Fund 2.90 2.90 12.91% 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 2,897.73 2,937.84 31.79% Coral Income Fund 2,389.01 2,389.01 14.64% GREENWICH ASSET MANAGEMENT LIMITED assetmanagement@gtlgroup.com Web: www.gtlgroup.com ; Tel: +234 1 4619261-2 Fund Name Bid Price Offer Price Yield / T-Rtn Greenwich Plus Money Market Fund 100.00 100.00 17.77% INVESTMENT ONE FUNDS MANAGEMENT LTD enquiries@investment-one.com Web: www.investment-one.com; Tel: +234 812 992 1045,+234 1 448 8888 Fund Name Bid Price Offer Price Yield / T-Rtn Abacus Money Market Fund 1.00 1.00 17.74% Vantage Balanced Fund 2.06 2.08 22.54% Vantage Guaranteed Income Fund 1.00 1.00 18.58% Kedari Investment Fund (KIF) 111.67 111.67 16.24%
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 1.14 1.16 15.48% Lotus Halal Fixed Income Fund 1,025.68 1,025.68 8.97% 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 13.05 13.16 35.00% Meristem Money Market Fund 10.00 10.00 18.82% 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 1.20 1.22 20.26% PACAM Fixed Income Fund 10.84 10.89 4.25% PACAM Money Market Fund 10.00 10.00 13.95% 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 125.27 127.63 23.69% 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 1.39 1.39 11.72% 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 2,196.78 2,209.98 19.99% Stanbic IBTC Bond Fund 171.18 171.18 11.18% Stanbic IBTC Ethical Fund 0.98 0.99 27.92% Stanbic IBTC Guaranteed Investment Fund 212.93 212.93 13.93% Stanbic IBTC Iman Fund 170.98 173.18 31.69% Stanbic IBTC Money Market Fund 100.00 100.00 18.17% Stanbic IBTC Nigerian Equity Fund 9,520.67 9,295.69 23.35% Stanbic IBTC Dollar Fund (USD) 1.04 1.04 4.00% 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 1.33 1.34 18.58% United Capital Bond Fund 1.46 1.46 19.45% United Capital Equity Fund 0.86 0.88 28.60% United Capital Money Market Fund 1.00 1.00 18.50% 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 12.54 12.74 29.15% Zenith Ethical Fund 13.18 13.33 20.33% Zenith Income Fund 18.64 18.64 12.72%
REITS NAV Per Share
Yield / T-Rtn
11.41 131.22
1.01% 5.85%
Bid Price
Offer Price
Yield / T-Rtn
10.71 137.20 106.80
10.81 140.17 108.81
24.12% 38.69% 40.94%
Fund Name FSDH UPDC Real Estate Investment Fund SFS Skye Shelter Fund
EXCHANGE TRADED FUNDS Fund Name Lotus Halal Equity Exchange Traded Fund SIAML Pension ETF 40 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
4.55 8.95 17.14 20.46 139.37
4.59 9.03 17.24 20.66 141.37
64.29% 27.16% 44.80% 28.10% 9.93%
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.
46
T H I S D AY FRIDAY OCTOBER 20, 2017
T H I S D AY FRIDAY OCTOBER 20 2017
47
48
T H I S D AY FRIDAY OCTOBER 20, 2017
T H I S D AY FRIDAY OCTOBER 20 2017
49
FRIDAY OCTOBER 20, 2017 ˾ T H I S D AY
50
WORLD OF ISLAM INTERNATIONAL Edited by: MJO Mustapha Email deji.mustapha@thisdaylive.com
When an Illiterate Man Was Asked to Read - 2 Spahic Omer/IslamiCity (Continued from last week)
T
he new reading paradigm brought by the angel Jibril in the cave Hira’ was about the reading of revelation (the Qur’an), life with all its dimensions, and the self. It was as comprehensive and holistic as the Prophet’s mission itself. The new reading was at once physical, cerebral and spiritual, corresponding to the character of its aim: man and life, as well as the heavens and the earth. A person, it goes without saying, may be illiterate, but a good, insightful and knowledgeable reader. In the same vein, a person may be educated and literate, but ignorant and unwise. True knowledge is identified with light and guidance. It is a guarantee of success and happiness in both worlds. Hence, though illiterate, the Prophet (pbuh) was the most knowledgeable, most enlightened and wisest man that ever lived. Towards Reviving the Iqra’ Concept No wonder this awareness led to the creation of a powerful Islamic civilization whose most conspicuous characteristics revolved around the notions of knowledge, education, wisdom and science. It was a civilization of learning (reading), which was caused and sustained by learning and learned (reading) generations. Such was an engine of Muslim civilizational growth and cultural enrichment through centuries. It was only when such a spirit was lost that Islamic civilization started declining, and the Muslim community started losing ground to other nations and their less adequate patterns of civilizational progress. Today in the age of globalization, as Muslims grow more and more desperate in their quest to restore their cultural and civilizational identity and respect from others, they should know that the only way forward is the revivification of the universal concept of iqra’ (read!), as revealed to Prophet Muhammad (pbuh) in the Hira’ Cave, and everything such concept entails. That endeavour would bring an end to many alien, inept and outright useless alternatives Muslims have adopted in recent times in order to fill the void left by their gradual abandoning of the original iqra’ scheme. If revived, the authentic iqra’ process would minimize memorization – unfortunately often associated with little or no understanding whatsoever – replacing it with a combination of better comprehension and practical application of knowledge. In passing, memorization in the past, when there was no technology and books were either rare or extremely expensive, was something, and memorization today, in the era of technology and when books are both easily available and affordable, is something else. Today almost every Muslim has downloaded on his smartphone – a gadget without which, in actual fact, life is unimaginable -- the Qur’an with its translations and numerous commentaries, anthologies of the Prophet’s sunnah, encyclopaedic works on fiqh, sirah, Muslim history, etc. Every aspect of Islamic knowledge is constantly with a person and is available at his fingertips. Everyone is a walking encyclopaedia, so to speak, in the sense that practically everyone has limitless access to limitless knowledge at all times. Accordingly, talking about memorization today should not be in the sense of preservation and safeguarding – as it was in the past; hence the word hifz, which means safeguarding, and which is used for memorization -- in that everything is already painstakingly preserved and safeguarded. This is in no way a call for abolishing memorization in Islamic scholarship. However, it is a call to seriously reconsider it and revisit its scope. Nor should just reading a book – or books – and teaching notes from PowerPoint be the way. As a lecturer myself, I often wonder what my role in teaching Islamic studies today should exactly be. To keep saying – and repeating -- things every single student has on his smartphone, or can easily find on a website and in numerous library books, certainly is not the way either. That way, coming to a class is tantamount to wasting time. Reading alone in a hostel room, or productively spending the same time in a library, is a better option by all accounts. Indeed, teaching and learning in classes ought to be more challenging, more provoking, more productive, more eye-and-mind opening and more real-world an experience. Sometimes I tell my students in certain Islamic studies courses that if they at the end start asking questions they never asked before, or they start looking at some absorbing life issues and challenges from perspectives they never did before -- that will be regarded as a great success. Or if they realize that they do not know and genuinely need
to know, or that they can identify voids in their personal lives and, at the same time, know where exactly to go to pursue solutions -- that, too, will be seen as a great leap forward. I keep encouraging them to “read” and investigate themselves and their lives honestly, pragmatically and ingeniously. It is better to have genuine questions than faulty or sub-standard answers. It is better to be life-oriented than good marks-obsessed, or driven. The former stimulates and galvanises, whereas the latter deludes and debilitates. It is in this context that I am starting to feel more and more inclined towards the modern theory of outcome-based education, according to which no single specified style of teaching or assessment is adopted, and where the role of a lecturer adapts into teacher, trainer, instructor, facilitator, and/or mentor based on the specified and adopted outcomes. Moreover, conducting Islamic studies programs need also be thoroughly re-evaluated. Such programs during most turbulent periods of Muslim history have been divested of their true meaning, dynamism and purpose. Instead of being man and life-oriented, promoting and facilitating the creation of righteous cultures and civilization – as implied by the iqra’ (read!) imperative – they became synonymous with mediocrity, regress, apathy and narrow-mindedness. One wonders, therefore, about the benefits of meticulously studying today, for example, some minor long-extinct religious sects, some endless -- at times utterly meaningless -- debates in the fields of philosophy, ‘ilm al-kalam (Islamic scholastic theology), Sufism and even fiqh (jurisprudence) and tafsir (exegesis of the Qur’an). It is unfathomable, for example, that while Muslims are today on the brink of total and all-consuming sectarian conflicts, many Islamic educational programs actively participate in exacerbating the predicament by the ways they teach certain sensitive historical episodes, theological doctrines and jurisprudential questions. As is inexplicable, in equal measure, that numerous irrelevant and outmoded topics are dealt with lengthily – with countless books and theses being filled with them -- while a great many pressing issues that aim to afflict the Muslim youth, Muslim politics, economics, education and human relations are either ignored or tackled only sporadically and superficially. Furthermore, if the spirit of iqra’ is revived, there will be no separation between religion and any aspect, or dimension, of life. This is so because Islam is life, and life, in turn, is Islam, in that it represents and mirrors the same truth. The truth of the Qur’an is the truth of the multidimensional life phenomenon. Islam, it goes without saying, is to be lived, rather than practiced. It is to be experienced, rather than just talked about. That said, as the most ideal and somewhat farfetched implication of iqra’, having separate Islamic studies educational departments and programs, should be reduced to a minimum, or be done away with altogether – except in cases with very specialized character, objectives and scope. However, this is just concerning departments and programs, not Islamic studies as such. The latter should be integrated in all other educational programs that normally stand for different aspects of everyday life. The process of integration should be so seamless and harmonious that the students of a program, while learning about the chosen academic field of theirs, learn about Islam as well, without developing a feeling that the same has been unwittingly imposed upon them. Thus, when the students learn about the worldview(s) that underpins any branch, or field, of knowledge, they will learn at length about the Islamic worldview, belief system and values, and how that branch, or field, of knowledge is to be turned into a beneficial civilizational component for Muslims and humankind at large. When they talk about professional codes of ethics, Islamic ethics and its application will be learned and discussed extensively. The implications of the same for the whole community will also be dwelled on. The legal aspects of various knowledge fields will bring the students face to face with Islamic shari’ah and fiqh. Moreover, the subjects of history will focus chiefly on the history of Islam, Muslim peoples and Islamic culture and civilization. That will create a framework from which every other aspect of human history and civilization will be studied. Finally, every program will aim to make of a student an excellent, holistic and righteous man (and woman) ready to make a positive contribution in every context he (she) might find himself (herself) in, including the context of his (her) professional life. In this way, the students will become both better professionals and better Muslims. Indeed, it is high time that Muslims stop embracing and practicing virtual illiteracy in the name of education and cultural development. Concluded
email:foreigndesk@thisdaylive.com
Trump Denies ‘Insensitive’ Remarks to Soldier’s Widow US President Donald Trump says a claim that he made insensitive remarks to the recently bereaved widow of a soldier is “totally fabricated”. Congresswoman Frederica Wilson said he had told the widow of Sgt La David Johnson: “He knew what he was signing up for, but I guess it hurts anyway.” The Democratic lawmaker said she was shocked by the alleged comments. Sgt Johnson was among four US special service soldiers killed in Niger by Islamist militants this month. Mr Trump had already been criticised for not contacting the families of the dead servicemen right after the fatal ambush on 4 October. The president tweeted on Wednesday morning: “Democrat Congresswoman totally fabricated what I said to the wife of a soldier who died in action (and I have proof). Sad! Mr Trump did not immediately provide the evidence. A White House official said Mr Trump’s conversations with the families of dead servicemen were private. Ms Wilson, who represents a Florida district, told CNN the president’s call had been made shortly before Sgt Johnson’s coffin arrived in Miami. “This gentleman has a brain disorder,” said the lawmaker, “and he needs to be checked out.” Ms Wilson told WPLG, a Miami TV station, she had heard the
CHANGE OF NAME I, formerly known and addressed as MORUFU TAOFEEK ADEBAYO, now wish to be known and address as TEMIRO TAOFEEK ADEBAYO. All former documents remain valid. The general public should take note. I Formerly known and addressed as MISS IHEKWEME AGNES CHILE now wish to be known and addressed as MRS CHIBUNDU UGWEGBULEM AGNES CHILE. All former documents remain valid. The general public please take note I Formerly known and addressed as MISS IBILOLA HABEEBA ADEMOWO now wish to be known and addressed as MRS IBILOLA HABEEBA ALABI. All former documents remain valid. The general public please take note
CHANGE OF NAME I, formerly known and addressed as UNWANA BRIGHT OKON, now wish to be known and address as UNWANA OKON AKPABIO. All former documents remain valid The general public should please take note. I, formerly known and addressed as OCHONOGOR JOY ISIOMA, now wish to be known and address as IKPEME JOY ISIOMA. All former documents remain valid. The general public should take note. I, formerly known and addressed as KADIR JIMOH ADISA, now wish to be known and address as TAIWO QUADRI OMOTOSO. All former documents remain valid. The general public should take note.
president’s “so insensitive” remarks to the widow on speakerphone in a limousine. “Yeah, he [President Trump] said that,” Ms Wilson said. “To me, that is something that you can say in a conversation, but you shouldn’t say that to a grieving widow. “And everyone knows when you go to war, you could possibly not come back alive. But you don’t remind a grieving widow of that.” Ms Wilson told the Washington Post the widow, Myeshia Johnson, who is expecting the couple’s third child, had broken down in tears after the conversation. “He made her cry,” Ms Wilson said. The congresswoman told the newspaper that she had wanted to grab the phone and “curse him out”. But an army sergeant who was holding the handset would not let her speak to the president, she said. The full context of the conversation is not known. Ms Wilson said that when she had asked Ms Johnson about the exchange, she said she could not remember. The congresswoman later responded to Mr Trump’s denial by tweeting: “I stand my account of the call with @realDonaldTrump and was not the only one who heard and was dismayed by his insensitive remarks.” Mr Trump has been on the defensive over the deaths in Niger since a reporter asked him at the White House on Monday why he had still not called the families.
He provoked fury by falsely claiming that his predecessor, Barack Obama, and other former US presidents had not called the relatives of dead service members. Mr Trump also said he had written letters to the families of the four killed in Niger and planned to call them soon. The White House later said the president had spoken to the families but it did not say when. On Tuesday, Mr Trump ratcheted up the row by suggesting that President Obama had not called the family of Mr Trump’s chief of staff, Gen John Kelly, when his son was killed in Afghanistan in 2010. The Associated Press says that like presidents before him, Mr Trump has made personal contact with some families of dead soldiers - but not all. “What’s different is that Trump, alone among them, has picked a political fight over who’s done better to honour the war dead and their families,” the news agency reports. “He placed himself at the top of this pantheon, boasting Tuesday that ‘I think I’ve called every family of someone who’s died’ while past presidents didn’t place such calls.” This is not the first time Mr Trump has found himself in an imbroglio over US veterans. As presidential candidate, he mocked Senator John McCain for having been captured as a prisoner of war in Vietnam. He also engaged in a racially charged feud with the parents of decorated army captain Humayun Khan, who was killed in Iraq in 2004.
CHANGE OF NAME I, formerly known and addressed as MISS FAUSAT ABIOLA JEMOH, now wish to be known and address as MRS FAUSAT ABIOLA OKUNOLA. All former documents remain valid. The general public should take note. I, formerly known and addressed as EMMANUEL BLESSING, now wish to be known and address as BASSA BLESSING MADAKI. All former documents remain valid. The general public should take note.
CHANGE OF NAME
I, formerly known and addressed as MORRIS OLO, now wish to be known and address as OMOREGHA MOSES. All former documents remain valid. The general public should take note. I, formerly known and addressed as MISS OGBEH OMENO AGNESS, now wish to be known and address as MRS OLUWATOYIN ANNIE OMENO. All former documents remain valid. The general public should take note.
I, formerly known and addressed as MISS OLISE CHIKA CHRISTABEL, now wish to be known and address as MRS UYANWANNE CHIKA CHRISTABEL. All former documents remain valid. The general public should take note.
I Formerly known and addressed as OGUNGBENRO THOMAS OLUWAFEMI now wish to be known and addressed as GBENRO THOMAS OLUWAFEMI. All former documents remain valid. The general public please take note I formerly known as CELESTINA ADAMS (Nee Isado) wish to be known and addressed as MRS CELESTINA OMOLAJA. All former documents remain valid. The general public should please take note. I, formerly known and addressed as E &/^, dh DKDK hͳ AGUNBIADE now wish to be known and addressed as NEFISHETU SUMAINA MOMODU. All former documents remain valid. The general public should please take note I, formerly known and addressed as EDIMO BASSEY now wish to be known and addressed as ETUKUDO EDIMN BASSEY. All former documents remain valid. The general public should please take note I, formerly known and addressed as DANIEL JEFU OKOPI, now wish to be known and address as DANIEL OKOPI. All former documents remain valid. The general public should take note.
CHANGE OF NAME
I ALIYU LAMI UMAR is one and same person as LAMI UMAR. I wish to be addressed as ALIYU LAMI UMAR. All former document remain the same. The general public should take note.
51
T H I S D AY FRIDAY OCTOBER 20 2017
GOVERNMENT OF RIVERS STATE OF NIGERIA Rivers State Civil Service Commission
INTERNAL AND EXTERNAL ADVERTISEMENT Applications are hereby invited from suitably qualified candidates for employment as Health Sector Workers of different categories in the Rivers State Public Service, as indicated hereunder: (i) (iii) (iv) (vi) (viii) (x) (xii) (xiv) (xvi) (xviii)
Nurses Community Health Officers Pharmacy Technicians Medical Laboratory Technologists Medical Records Officers Environmental Health Officers Dieticians Biomedical Engineers Public Health Sector Workers Optometrists.
(ii) (iv) (v) (vii) (ix) (xi) (xiii) (xv) (xvii)
Nurse/Midwives Pharmacists Medical Laboratory Scientists Laboratory Technicians/Assistants Medical Records Technicians/Assistants Radiographers Scientific Officers Hygienists Physiotherapists
EDUCATIONAL AND PROFESSIONAL QUALIFICATIONS Applicants must possess the following basic qualifications with relevant cognate professional experience in their various field of specialization: 1. Basic certification in the various disciplines 2. Evidence of current Practice License from the relevant bodies 3. Certificate of Discharge or Exemptions from the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) Scheme. 4. Post Graduate professional qualifications, including fellowships in areas of specialization. -
Applicants should not be more than 50 years of age.
SALARY Salaries would be based on the approved Consolidated Health Workers Salary Structure (CONHESS) as applicable in the Rivers State Public Service. METHOD OF APPLICATION Applicants are required to submit hand written applications and details of Curriculum Vitae and photocopies of the following: 1. First School Leaving Certificate 2. West African School Certificate or Equivalent 3. University Degree and other Professional Certificates 4. National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) discharge or Exemption Certificate 5. Local Government Identification Certificate 6. Birth Certificate or Affidavit of Age Declaration Application should be addressed to: THE CHAIRMAN, RIVERS STATE CIVIL SERVICE COMMISSION, STATE SECRETARIAT COMPLEX, PORT HARCOURT. To reach him not later than two (2) weeks from the date of this publication. DATED this 19th day of October, 2017.
Augustus I. Fubara Esq; JP. (Director Administration) For: Chairman, Civil Service Commission.
52
FRIDAY OCTOBER 20, 2017 ˾ T H I S D AY
NEWS
News Editor Davidson Iriekpen Email davidson.iriekpen@thisdaylive.com, 08111813081
Nigerian Lenders Appoint Barclays to Find New Investors for 9mobile Nigerian lenders have picked Barclays to try to find new investors for debt-laden 9mobile, two banking sources said on yesterday. Barclays has started work on the mandate and is in the process of setting up a database for prospective investors to conduct due diligence, they said. Banking sources had previously said Citigroup and Standard Bank were in the running for the role. But the lenders decided against them due to their previous links with 9mobile, the sources said yesterday. Standard’s local unit, Stanbic
IBTC Bank, according to Reuters, is among the group of lenders to 9mobile while Citi has advised the telecoms company, formerly known as Etisalat Nigeria, in the past, they said. Barclays was not immediately available for comment. Etisalat Nigeria took out a $1.2 billion (£912.4 million) syndicated loan from a group of 13 local banks but struggled to make repayments this year due to a currency crisis and recession in Nigeria. The Nigerian central bank intervened to save the company
from collapse and prevent creditors from putting it into receivership, leading to a change in its board and management, as well as the new name 9mobile. The crisis forced the telecoms company’s one-time parent Etisalat to terminate its management agreement with its Nigerian business and surrender its 45 per cent stake to a trustee following the central bank intervention.
9mobile Chief Executive Officer, Boye Olusanya, has said he is focused on getting the telecoms company back on track to make a profit, while working on the paperwork to eventually raise new capital, adding the company was open to new investors. Lenders have put a freeze on collecting the principal and interest payments on the syndicate loan pending new investors, in order
to help the company survive, the sources told Reuters. They have also held back on taking provisions for the syndicated loan and agreed to extend it after the regulatory intervention in July. The sources said the central bank had asked the lenders to take a five per cent provision on the loan as part of their-quarter results due this month. Some lenders, such as Zenith
Bank, UBA, and Access Bank have made already 30 per cent provisions to cover direct lending to 9mobile outside the syndicated loan. 9mobile has over 20 million subscribers with a 14 per cent share of the Nigerian market. South Africa’s MTN is the market leader with 47 per cent, Nigeria’s Globacom has 20 per cent and Bharti Airtel’s local subsidiary has 19 per cent.
Shell Lifts Force Majeure on Bonny Light Exports Ejiofor Alike with agency reports Barely two days after Aiteo Eastern Exploration and Production Company announced the completion of repairs of the Nembe Creek Trunkline (NCTL), Shell Petroleum Development Company (SPDC) yesterday lifted force majeure on exports of Bonny Light crude. The NCTL and the Trans-Niger Pipeline (TNP) are the two major pipelines used by SPDC and some other producing companies to evacuate crude from the eastern Niger Delta to the Bonny export terminal. The 600,000 barrels per day capacity, 100-kiloemtre NCTL built by SPDC and inaugurated in 2010, was sold by the oil major to Aiteo in 2015 as part of the divestments of its onshore assets.
But even though SPDC handed over the ownership and operatorship of the asset to the indigenous firm, the multinational company and other producers have continued to utilise the pipeline for crude evacuation. Shell had declared force majeure on Bonny exports a month ago after Aiteo shut down the pipeline following a reported leak on the facility. However, SPDC yesterday lifted the force majeure at noon local time (1100 GMT). As one of Nigeria’s major oil transportation arteries that evacuate crude from the Niger Delta, NCTL has a capacity to move up to 150,000 bpd of oil at Nembe Creek. It equally has the capacity to evacuate up to 600,000bpd of liquids from the end point at Cawthorne Channel.
NIMASA Appeals NLNG $315.5m Judgment Debt Eromosele Abiodun The Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency (NIMASA), has appealed the judgment of the Federal High Court in Lagos in the matter between Nigeria Liquefied Natural Gas (NLNG), Attorney General of the Federation, Global West Vessels Specialists Limited and NIMASA. NIMASAin a statement yesterday said it filed the appeal with an application to stay the execution of the judgment and restrain NLNG, pending the determination of the appeal. “The appeal and stay were filed even before receiving the Certified true copy of the judgment 14 days after the judgment was delivered in line with legal provisions. This proactive step of the agency was taken to forestall any negative action, yet the NLNG ignored this court action and commenced a media trial. On the grounds of the appeal, NIMASA said it complained that the learned trial Judge erred when in breach of NIMASA’s constitutional and fundamental right to fair hearing refused to consider and pronounce on its arguments on the issues for determination and its counter claim filed in opposition to the amended originating summons. “We also complained that the learned trial judge erred in law in entertaining and granting the reliefs contained in NLNG’s amended originating summons
wrongly used to commence the proceedings without converting it to a writ of summons, ordering pleadings and calling on the parties to lead oral evidence to prove their cases since their affidavits were irreconcilably in conflict. “Our legal team noted that the above grounds led to the error of the court which occasioned miscarriage of justice to NIMASA, “it stated. NIMASA however stated that the demand of N101 billion from it as the judgment debt by the NLNG, after becoming aware of the agency’s appeal is wrong and considered an affront to Nigeria’s judicial system. “NLNG should allow the law take its full course and stop the media trial of a dispute that is before the court.” According to the Director General of the agency, Dr. Dakuku Peterside, “We feel there is an orchestrated publicity campaign to wrongly sway public opinion on the judgment. We therefore wish to reiterate that all levies and dues NIMASA collects are in line with the Act setting up the agency which is later in time to the NLNG Act, which makes the payment of NIMASA’s statutory levies enforceable on all NLNG vessels.” NIMASA’s management immediately stated its dissatisfaction of the High Court Judgment and noted its intention to appeal the judgment of the court.
MEETING ON THE ECONOMY
L-R: Sultan of Sokoto, Dr. Muhammad Sa’ad Abubakar; Vice President Yemi Osinbajo; Kwara State Governor, Abdulfatah Ahmed; and Ogun State Governor, Ibikunle Amosun, during the National Economic Council (NEC) meeting, at the Presidential Villa Abuja ...yesterday. Godwin Omoigui.
NEC Constitutes Committee of Six Govs to Drive Industrialisation Omololu Ogunmade in Abuja The National Economic Council (NEC) yesterday set up a subcommittee of the Nigeria Industrial Policy and Competitiveness Advisory Council to assist the advisory body in fast-tracking industrialisation. The committee, chaired by Vice President Yemi Osinbajo, and made up of ministers and captains of industry, is saddled with the responsibility of driving the new phase of Nigeria’s industrialisation. Briefing journalists at the end of yesterday’s NEC meeting presided over by Osinbajo in Aso Rock, the Minister of State for Industry, Trade and Investment, Aisha Abubakar, said the council briefed NEC on the level of work it had done so far and sought its intervention in its resolution on key areas to fast-track industrialisation. He said the decision resulted in the decision to set up the committee comprising six
governors drawn from six geopolitical zones of the country. They are Kwara State Governor, Abdulfatah Ahmed (North-central), Kaduna State Governor, Nasir el-Rufai (Northwest), Adamawa State Governor, Bindowo Jubrilla (North-east), Ogun State Governor, Ibikunle Amosun (South-west), Abia State Governor, Okezie Ikpeazu (South-east) and Godwin Obaseki of Edo State (South-south). Abubakar said the committee was set up because NEC acknowledged the critical roles of states in boosting industrialisation. According to her, the subcommittee would monitor and report the implementation of the advisory council’s recommendations “to address the eight areas highlighted with particular emphasis on harmonisation of right of ways’ charges between states and federal government and adoption of the 2015 approved list of taxes and levies.” The areas to be addressed by
the sub-committee are: improving broadband penetration in the country; resolving multiple taxation; facilitating access to land and providing security for investments. Others are: standardising regulatory requirements; facilitating integrated business linkages; collaborating on project development and maintenance, and providing shared facilities. In his own briefing, Ikpeazu said the Sultan of Sokoto, Saa’d Abubakar who was present in the meeting, told the council that traditional institutions in Nigeria were committed to polio eradication. Ikpeazu added that NEC observed that Nigeria was making progress in polio eradication as well as routine immunisation and urged states to honour their counterpart funds commitment with a view to taking immunisation to the next level. Obaseki, in his own briefing, said NEC was told that only 12 of the 36 states have already
paid their counterpart funding for measles vaccination to be conducted in all states of the country beginning from Northwest on October 26. In a statement later last night, Osinbajo’s media aide, Mr. Laolu Akande, said the Accountant General of the Federation, Ahmed Idris, told the Council that the balance in Excess Crude Account as at October 16, 2017 stood at $2.3 billion. He said Idris also told the council that the balance in the Stabilisation Fund Account as at October 16, 2017 was N5.85 billion while the balance in the Natural Resources Development Account as at October 16, 2017 stood at N93.114 billion. According to him, the Minister of Finance, Mrs. Kemi Adeosun, also told the council that there was no budget support loan facility for last month to any state because the balance in Federal Account Allocation Committee (FAAC) was in excess of N600 billion as agreed.
Obasanjo, IG to Inaugurate Abuja’s Upscale River Park Estate In its determination to bridge the housing deficit across the country, beginning with the nation’s capital, Abuja, River Park Estate will on Monday unveil its range of innovative houses. The houses, spanning across 501 hectares of land, and grouped into five clusters, with all being developed simultaneously, would
be inaugurated by former President Olusegun Obasanjo. The event which is scheduled to hold at River Park Estate will also host the Inspector General of Police, Mr. Ibrahim Idris, who will unveil the state of the art police station in the estate. A statement by the Chairman of River Park Estate, Paul Odili,
noted that, “River Park Estate is an exclusive community carefully designed for upper-middle class income earners who desire unique luxury in a serene environment with easy accessibility to major areas in the city.” Other unique features of the Estate, according to Adrian Ogun, the Vice Chairman, include – A police station,
asphalt surfaced road network with functioning street lights, underground drainage system, constant water supply and general electrification as well as a nine-hole members’ golf course.” Continuing,Adrian also mentioned the established of a fully stocked health clinic and a nursery and primary school all in operation.
FRIDAY OCTOBER 20, 2017 ˾ T H I S D AY
53
NEWSEXTRA
Dogara: Restructuring Not Achievable without Constitution Amendment Presidency confirms Buhari did not attack govs on unpaid workers’ salaries Omololu Ogunmade in Abuja The Speaker of the House of Representatives, Hon. Yakubu Dogara, yesterday said most of the issues being canvassed by advocates of restructuring could not be actualised except the constitution is amended. Dogara stated this while speaking to State House correspondents in the Presidential Villa, Abuja, after briefing members of the Nigerian Governors’ Forum (NGF) at its meeting on Wednesday night. He said it was against this background that he agreed with President Muhammadu Buhari that all the clamour for restructuring should be channeled to the National Assembly, noting that the executive cannot make laws since lawmaking is the exclusive preserve of the legislature. According to him, even though restructuring was part of the manifesto of the All Progressives Congress (APC), such issues would still have to be tabled before the National Assembly for effective debate and eventual incorporation into the constitution. Dogara added that even though the party had set up a committee to collate opinions on restructuring, they would still have to end up in the National Assembly where the power to incorporate them into the constitution resides. He said he personally lacked the power to give a clear-cut assurance to the governors on restructuring because every issue has to be subjected to debate in the National
Assembly and decisions taken by the vote of a simple majority. However, he promised that the National Assembly would look into the issues being canvassed holistically and amend the constitution with a view to ensuring that the interests of the people prevail in the end. The NGF had earlier invited Deputy Senate President, Senator Ike Ekweremadu to brief it on the constitution amendment process by the Senate. “I was asked to see them (governors) so that we can talk about some of these constitutional alterations in the National Assembly. So I came to meet them so that we can talk on most of the bills we are considering. “Even though I am the speaker, I can tell you that I can only speak where majority of our members have agreed upon. So it is a bit early for me to conclude. But this is a democracy and in a democracy, the majority matters. “We are aware of the ongoing agitations in the country. Some are calling for restructuring. Some call it true federalism. This is an issue on the manifestos of the APC. “It is our feeling as very responsive and responsible representatives of the people to ensure that this debate is done. And I agree like I said before, that the position of the president that most of these matters and issues should be canvassed at the levels of the National Assembly. “This is because some of the structural imbalances that we are talking about that need what they call restructuring cannot be corrected
just by a stroke of the pen. “Some of them are actually embedded in the provisions of the constitution. Even by pedestrian description of the functions of government, the executive cannot make laws; they cannot amend the constitution. “They can only initiate the process in an executive bill, but it ultimately revolves within the powers of the legislature. So even the committee that is set up by the APC leadership on true federalism, by the time they conclude their work, most of the issues they come out with will require some kind of tinkering of the constitution. “So our feeling is that we should not just close the window to the yearnings of majority of our people. We should listen again to all the stakeholders, listen more to Nigerians and at the end of the day, we will come up with an exercise that meets the expectations and
yearnings of our people. “We will not just amend the constitution for the sake of amending it. We will want the exercise to be very impactful,” Dogara said. In his briefing, the Chairman of NGF and Governor of Zamfara State, Abdulaziz Yari, denied a statement credited to the president by his media aide that the president expressed displeasure over their failure to pay the salaries of workers in their states despite the bailout support given to them. Whereas the president was quoted in a statement issued by his Media Adviser, Mr. Femi Adesina, Yari said the president never made such a remark but instead he agreed with the governors on the issues raised and asked them to wait until he returns from Turkey. He also said the speaker briefed them on the issues left out of the ongoing constitution amendment
exercise by the National Assembly such as restructuring and devolution of powers, pointing out that they will still be considered in the interest of the nation. Yari said they were also briefed and educated by representatives of the Nigeria Stock Exchange (NSE) on how they could raise bonds from the capital market to finance infrastructure. “We briefed the members (of NGF) about our meeting with Mr. president yesterday (Tuesday), which I’m surprised some of you turned upside down.You got the full briefing from me and then some of your people went and said they got another from inside. “I don’t know which inside that the president is not happy with the governors. It is very unfortunate. We had a very fruitful meeting with the President and he accepted all our requests. “The only thing Mr. President said is that he is not a technical person and that we should wait for
the Minister of Finance to return, and the Chairman of the National Economic Council, so that they can give him an update and support on what he is going to say to us. “So he said we should reschedule this meeting until he returns from Turkey. I think this is what I told the press yesterday (Tuesday) but I wonder how they turned it around. But Adesina told THISDAY that Yari was correct that Buhari did not attack governors as implied by media reports, saying his statement was only twisted by some media platforms in their drive to sensationalise the story. According to him, the comment of the president that he wondered how people could sleep when their staff were not paid was not directed to the governors but rather a general statement which he said the president often makes in expression of his concern about the plight of unpaid workers.
IjawYouths, Security Agencies Partner to Fish out Kidnappers TOWARDS FREE AND FAIR ELECTIONS of Four Britons R-L: Chairman, Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), Prof. Mahmood Yakubu; Team Leader, European Union Election Sylvester Idowu in Warri Ijaw youths under the aegis of Ijaw Youth Council (IYC) have joined forces to free four missionaries kidnapped last Friday by suspected militants at Enekorogha community in Bomadi Local Government Area of Delta State. As the security agencies, particularly operatives of the Department of State Service (DSS) and soldiers of the 222 Battalion of Nigerian Army operating under Joint Task Force (JTF) code named Operation Delta Safe yesterday uppedtheirmanhuntforthehoodlums, the IYC also directed traditional rulers as well as youths in the neigbouring communities to provide necessary information that would lead to their arrest and rescue of the victims. “We are already closing in on the kidnappers. Very soon they will be apprehended for as long as they still keep their victims. We already have information we are working on. I can assure you that the Britons will be released before the week run out,” the security source said. Just as the security agents launched an intensive manhunt for the kidnappers the IYC worldwide called on the suspected militants or whosoever that is responsible for the kidnap of the four foreign missionaries to release them with immediate effect. IYC, according to a statement signed by its President, Eric Omare, condemned the kidnap, saying there
was no justification whatsoever for the act. “It is criminal and highly condemnable for foreign missionaries who were offering free medical services and preaching the gospel of God in the riverine areas of western Ijaw to be kidnapped. There is no justification whatsoever for this ungodly action. It has nothing to do with the Ijaw or Niger Delta agitation hence it must be condemned by all well-meaning people. “The IYC will collaborate with security agencies, Ijaw traditional and community leaders in and around Enekorogha and other Ijaw communities in Burutu Local Government Area to fish out the perpetrators of this criminal act,” it said. To this end, the IYC clan and community structures in Esembiri, Oporomor and Mein clans have been instructed to take actions towards the release of kidnapped missionaries adding “criminal conducts such as kidnapping and killing of innocent people are neither part and parcel of the Ijaw culture nor the Ijaw struggle for freedom.” The group called on Ijaw traditional and community leaders to be vigilant so as not to allow criminal elements the freedom to operate. It noted that criminal conducts were bringing disrepute to the communities involved and driving away development from the communities concerned.
Observation Mission (EU-EOM), Mr. Santiago Fisas; and European Union’s Ambassador to Nigeria and West Africa, Mr. Ketil Karlsen during the Mid Term Review meeting to ascertain the implementation status of the recommendations contained in the EU-EOM Observation Report on the 2015 general election at the INEC headquarters in Abuja ....yesterday.
APC Using Propaganda to Cover Misrule, Says Jonathan Onyebuchi Ezigbo in Abuja Former President, Dr. Goodluck Jonathan, has berated the President Muhammadu Buhari-led All Progressives Congress (APC) administration of deploying propaganda to hoodwink Nigerians over its failings. He said since the APC administration assumed office, it has nothing tangible to show as an achievement, rather, it has been using lies and deployment of hi-tech propaganda to cover up its misrules. Jonathan criticism of the APC administration came just as leading members of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) under the auspices of Concerned PDP Stakeholders met in Abuja with three of the party’s chairmanship aspirants to try and broker a consensus among them ahead of the December 9 national convention. Speaking in Abuja yesterday while receiving in audience one of the chairmanship aspirants, Professor Tunde Adeniran, and his campaign team, Jonathan declared that the PDP did well
during its tenure from May 29, 1999, till May 29, 2015, when it handed over power to the APC, adding that since then till date, the APC administration failed to impress Nigerians. Jonathan, who cited instances to back up his claim, challenged the administration to a public debate over his position. According to Jonathan, “PDP administration did well for 16 years and will continue to do well, but this administration has done nothing-the administration is full of lies and propaganda “In the power sector, we did well to revive it, but a state governor criticised our government, saying any serious government should be able to fix the power within six months. Today, APC has been in power for how many years? Fortunately, the then governor is in the APC government as a minister.” The former president, however, said all hope was not lost as the PDP would go all out and put its house in order for it to return to power in 2019. He said this has become
apparent since Nigerians have been able to see things for them on the differences between the APC and the PDP. Jonathan repeated his earlier admonition of his party men to ensure that they hold a rancourfree national convention and elect capable and credible leadership. “With the rate at which people are coming around to associate with a party that lost elections, it shows that the people still believe in the PDP, and with the numbers and calibre of the people coming out to vie for the seat of the national chairman and other offices of our party, it shows that our party still have another chance,” he added. Meanwhile, a PDP group, the Concerned Stakeholders, led by the former Deputy Senate President, Ibrahim Mantu, yesterday kickstarted a move to prone down the number of aspirants for the national chairmanship seat of the party. The group which included former governors, ministers, legislators and NWC members met with three of the aspirants, former Minister of Education, Prof. Tunde Adeniran and former Ogun
State Governor, Genga Daniel, at the Yar’Adua Centre in Abuja to seek an understanding among them to support a consensus candidate. The group resolved to set a committee made up of the director generals of the aspirants’ campaign organisations and some members of the concerned PDP stakeholders to work out details of the consensus arrangement. In a resolution read out by Mantu at the end of the meeting, the group said it would make sure that elections at the convention are conducted in a free and fair manner and that there won’t be any manipulation of the process. They also expressed worry of the attacks and counter attacks on the personalities of the contestants, warning that such should stop in the interest of party unity. The group further stated that such hates speech, if not stopped, could help arm the party’s opponents with lethal weapons to disparage the leaders of the PDP during campaigns. In their remarks, the aspirants expressed their willingness to go into negotiations.
54
FRIDAY OCTOBER 20, 2017 ˾ T H I S D AY
NEWSEXTRA
Obiano Finally Opens up, Alleges Obi Demanded N7.5bn for Sponsoring His Election Obi releases details of billions he handed over to governor Tobi Soniyi in Lagos and David-Chyddy Eleke in Awka Anambra State Governor, Chief Willie Obiano, has finally broken his silence on the allegation on the request of the sum of N7.5billion by his predecessor, Mr. Peter Obi, from him for sponsoring his election in 2013. Obiano and his predecessor, Obi, have had a frosty relationship shortly after his swearing-in, while most people have said the reason for the trouble was the refusal of the governor to pay back funds used by the former governor to finance his successor’s election.
Obi had however denied ever demanding the sum of N7.5billion from Obiano, saying his problem with him was his(Obiano’s) underperformance. Obi said if he needed the said sum, he would have simply taken it from the N75billion he left for the Obiano administration at the end of his tenure. But Obiano, while speaking last Wednesday evening at Ezechima Primary School, Onitsha, where he inaugurated his reelection campaigns said the clarification has become necessary because of the recent accusations against him by the former governor.
EFCC’s Move to Seize Patience Jonathan’s Property Stalled Alex Enumah in Abuja Effort by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) to commence process of seizing property belonging to former First Lady, Dame Patience Jonathan, was yesterday stalled at the Federal High Court in Abuja. The property located at Plot No: 1960, Cadastral Zone AOO, Maitama District and Plot No: 1350, Cadastral Zone AOO were part of an exparte motion scheduled for hearing before Justice Nnamdi Dimgba yesterday. However, hearing on the motion was stalled owing to a heated argument between counsel representing Mrs. Jonathan and that of the prosecution. Dame Jonathan’s counsel, Chief Mike Ozekhome (SAN), informed the court of an application he brought, challenging the jurisdiction of the court to entertain the exparte motion, thereby resulting to argument between him and EFCC counsel, Sylvanus Tahir, who wanted to move the exparte application. Tahir, who announced appearance in the matter midway after Mrs. Best Ojukwu had announced appearance as EFCC counsel, urged the court to hear the commission’s motion because in the face of the application, it is an exparte. He told the court that the motion exparte is seeking an order of the court to freeze the two properties on the grounds that they are proceeds of crime. Tahir, in his argument, submitted that the former first lady is a stranger to the exparte motion and as such, cannot challenge the motion. He urged the court to allow him to move the motion and grant the order freezing the property. Tahir said it was only then that Mrs. Jonathan could ask for a revocation of the order. In his response, Ozekhome, who was also allowed to address the court by Jonathan’s lead counsel, Ifedayo Adedipe (SAN), said their application is challenging the court jurisdiction and that there are circumstances where an exparte application can be opposed like the instant case. He said the EFCC motion is an example where an exparte application can be challenged because it is an abuse of court process.
According to Ozekhome, the commission wants to overreach the fundamental human rights suit pending before this court in suit No /FHC/CS/586/2017 filed by Ariwabai Aruewa Reachout Foundation filed by the owner of the property the commission seeks to freeze. He therefore prayed the court to hear his application challenging the court jurisdiction first, adding that if his prayers are granted, the court will find that the exparte motion is an abuse of court process. In his ruling, Justice Dimgba held that exparte applications are heard without the other party and that is the general principle. While stating that there was no counter affidavit challenging the motion on jurisdiction, he observed that since the issue of abuse of court process has been raised, it is necessary for the court to protect its integrity. Justice Dimgba therefore resolved to hear both applications together and adjourned the matter to November 11. The EFCC in an exparte originating summons filed on September 20, 2017, asked the court for “An order of interim attachment/forfeiture of the asset and property set out in the schedule attached herein. The commission in the suit with No FHC/ABJ/CS/872/2017 is also seeking an order stopping any disposal, conveyance, mortgage, lease, sale or alienation or otherwise of the property / asset described in the schedule attached therein. One of the grounds the motion is predicted on is that the asset/ property in respect of which the reliefs are sought are the subject matter of investigation, enquiry and examination by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission. The motion was supported by a 12 paragraph affidavit deposed to by one Kolawole Mukaila, an investigator with the EFCC, who averred that in the course, they discovered that the plots of land were allocated to one Ariwabai Aruera Reachout Foundation belonging to the former first lady and her allies. He averred further that all the payment/transfer/purchases had no contract award backing it up whatsoever and as such was reasonably suspected to be fraudulent payments and an illegal dissipation of the nation’s resources.
He stated that his predecessor had demanded the sum of N7.5billion from him as funds spent in prosecuting the election on his behalf, but he refused to pay the money because it was not true. Obiano said he refused to pay because he strongly believes that public funds should be used for public good, and not to settle godfathers. This he said was the reason they fell apart. The governor said another reason he refused to pay the money was because he was aware that enough funds were raised for his campaign by his friends and associates, all of which were never accounted for by the former governor. On the actual sum the former governor claimed he left behind, Obiano made it clear that he inherited a liability of about N127 billion debt from him in contracts awarded and other responsibilities, which he has been religiously undertaking in the spirit of continuity. He said Obi flagged-off several roads even on the day he was leaving office and saddled him with the burden of paying for them. Obiano promised the people that he has his eyes on the ball and would not allow anything to distract him from fulfilling his promises to Ndi Anambra. The Chairman of the governor’s re-election campaign committee,
Chief Victor Umeh, said APGA as the political spirit of Ndigbo has in the past three and half years, availed Ndi Anambra good governance at its best, reminding the people that the upcoming governorship election is not about Obiano but about ensuring that the state remained free from political godfatherism. A former Governor of the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN), Professor Chukwuma Soludo, in his speech said at this time, the state needs a tested hand like Obiano who he said has the experience and expertise to effectively steer her affairs. However, Obi has released the full details of the money he left for Obiano. Obi, who spoke in Lagos, also denied the claim by Obiano that he was owing contractors before he left office. Answering questions from journalists yesterday in Lagos on the statement by Obiano that Obi left him with N127 billion debt, the former governor said it was shocking that the governor would descend so low to misinform the people of Anambra state because of his desperation to get re-elected. He said what Obiano described as debts were unexecuted contracts. Obi said: “When I became governor, I inherited some roads from Dr. Chris Ngige such as Zik’s Avenue, Mmili John, Onitsha-
Ogwikpele road, among others which I started and completed. I also completed Isseke to Awka Etiti, Ideani to Otuocha and did not count them as debt inherited from Ngige, because as at the time he left, he paid for all executed contracts. “My biggest contractors were RCC and IDC, while the biggest suppliers were Innoson, HP and Cosharis Motors, ask them if I owed them kobo before leaving office.” Obi challenged Obiano to tell the Anambra people what he had done with the over N400 billion he had received as governor and the N25 billion and another N23.6 billion in set-aside funds he (Obi) handed over to him. “Obiano should explain to the Anambra people what he had added to the $156 million he left in savings for the state, which, when interests are added is about N200 billion today,” he added. To clear any doubts, Obi showed copies of statements of account from the banks on the March 27, 2014, he left office to include a total of N21,038,322,593.34 in Fidelity Bank; N15,842,277,676.73 in Diamond Bank; N2,686,491,042.49 in Enterprise Bank; N2,157,971,400.81 in First Bank; N1,822,444,989.99 in Access Bank; N1,146,656,417.33 in Keystone Bank; N1,311,827,780.46 in UBA; N642,155,436.82 in Zenith Bank;
N309,058,709.04 in Unity Bank; N696,497,374.71 in Sterling Bank and N172,491, 556.30 in Skye Bank. The former governor challenged anyone who doubts his statement to approach the banks mentioned above for confirmation. Obi said part of the money he left as set-aside was to execute some of the projects he discussed with him, including Three Arms Zone awarded at N8 billion for which he had already paid N2 billion. Obi decried the standard Obiano had taken governance in the state to with his unbridled lies. Giving example, he said it was needless to lie about export of ugu, onugbu, rice and yam. He challenged the governor to make public the certificates issued to him by the United States authorities to enable him export the items listed above to the US. TheformergovernoradvisedObiano toconcentratehisenergyintellingthepeople ofthestatewhathehasdone for them and notpeddlingliesasasubstituteforprojects done. “You said you had executed over 400kmsofroads,aretheyinHaiti?Showor mentiontheroadstothepeople,”Obisaid. The former governor also described as lies the claim by Obiano that 10 million tuber of yams were cultivated in Anambra, saying that the larger chunks of the yams consumed in the state were bought from Benue and Taraba.
Buhari Strikes Fresh Deal with Turkish President on Counter-terrorism Omololu Ogunmade in Abuja Presidents Muhammadu Buhari and Recep Tayyip Erdogan yesterday in Ankara, Turkey agreed to strengthen cooperation between the security agencies of both Nigeria and Turkey on counter-terrorism. A statement by the president’s spokesman, Malam Garba Shehu, said Buhari at a joint press conference after talks with his host, said he was ‘very pleased’’ that the defence ministers of both countries held extensive discussions on how to develop new strategies for counter-terrorism. “We are very pleased with the progress of the meeting so far and we are going to wait for the details of meetings between the two countries. We will as a result of the meeting between the ministers and officials of both countries strengthen rapidly whatever their recommendations are,’’ the president was quoted to have said. Garba said Buhari while commenting on the degradation of Boko Haram in Nigeria, said the improved security situation in the North-east was an eloquent testimony to the efforts of his administration in combating terrorism since he came into office in May 2015 “We were very surprised and disturbed by the claim made by Boko Haramonwhattheyhavebeengetting from ISIS. We know we will be able to contain them and we have proven that we can do it. We are very pleased that Turkey is in a position to assist us and has been strengthening our educational and health institutions,’’ Buhari was further quoted as saying. The statement added that the two leaders also discussed the prospects of increasing their bilateral trade, which it said had exceeded $779 million in
the first eight months of 2017. “There are a lot of potentialities in terms of investments and a lot is being doneintheeducationalandhealthsectors inNigeria.Thesewillbestrengthenedand I assure you that Nigeria is prepared
to accept Turkish business people to come and explore more of Nigeria’s potentialities,’’ the statement quoted the Nigerian leader. It added that Erdogan in his remarks, said Nigeria had great
potentials and remained “a global actor in terms of economy, demographics and its peacekeeping records,” adding that Turkey was interested in investing in Nigeria’s electricity, refineries and gas sectors.
T H I S D AY ˾ FRIDAY, OCTOBER 20, 2017
55
FRIDAYSPORTS
Group Sports Editor Duro Ikhazuagbe Email duro.ikhazuagbe@thisdaylive.com
NFF Set to Resolve World Cup Bonuses with Eagles Budgets N6.4bn for next year Femi Solaja The Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) has moved to ensure that World Cup 2018 bonuses are concluded with the Super Eagles before the end of this year to avoid repetition of what transpired in Brazil three years ago. At the Mundial in the South American country in 2014, Super Eagles players abandoned training ahead of a crucial second round clash with France as a result of disagreement over bonuses. It took the intervention of then President Goodluck Jonathan who directed Senate President, Senator David Mark to fly into Brazil with the cash from Abuja to pay the players at their Campina camp before they returned to training. Nigeria eventually lost the match 1-0 to France. Football aficionados attributed the loss in Brasilia to the dispute and the fact that Eagles stayed awake almost all the night leading to the match to pick up the cash. But yesterday, NFF decided at its executive committee meeting that held at the Plateau State Governor’s Lodge in Jos that bonuses agreements with the players must be concluded before the end of the year. “World Cup bonuses must be firmly concluded and
agreement signed before the end of this year, for the sake of stable preparations and credible participation at the World Cup finals without any distractions,” observed the communique released after the meeting. The committee also resolved that adequate and intensive preparation of the Super Eagles for the Russia 2018 FIFA World Cup, including the arrangement of quality friendly matches for the team, is non –negotiable. “To this end, a comprehensive plan of action would be released after the World Cup Draw in Moscow on 1st December 2017, which would encompass training camps, friendly matches, marketing and funds drive to ensure a great outing at the World Cup finals.” In line with global best practices, the NFF has also decided to stop payment of bonuses for all age grade national teams. Also, it stopped bonus payment to coaches and backroom staff of the senior teams. “The committee reiterated that henceforth, only the Super Eagles and the Super Falcons will be entitled to bonus payments per match. Players, coaches and backroom staff of other teams will earn daily allowances, approved bonuses at the end of successful qualifying campaigns
Stops bonus payments to age-grade teams
and approved allowances (including daily allowances) at championships.” Meanwhile, the General Assembly has approved the NFF Financial Statement for the year 2016 and the 2018 Budget as proposed. The Federation’s total budget
for year 2018 activities is the sum of N6,382,500,310.00. The guaranteed revenues from sponsors and government subvention is the sum of N3,062,500,310.00, leaving a shortfall of the sum of N3,320,000,000.00, which the Federation has to work to
augment through sponsorships and special interventions. Another far reaching decision at the Congress also includes the adoption of the motion to the effect that future Elective Congresses be moved away from the FIFA World Cup year. Katsina has been selected to
host the next Elective Congress on September 30, 2018. “This is to guarantee stability in the system to prepare the national team for credible participation at the finals, and to avoid the distractions and crises usually associated with the World Cup year.”
EAGLES MEET BUHARI IN TURKEY...
Super Eagles stars William Troost-Ekong (second left) and Mikel Agu met President Muhammadu Buhari (second right) and his Turkish counterpart Recep Erdogan (right) yesterday when the Nigerian President visited Turkey. President Buhari is on a state visit to Turkey. Both Troost-Ekong and Mikel Agu feature for Bursaspor in Turkey and only this month helped Nigeria qualify for next year’s World Cup in Russia
‘Invitation to Awards, Recognition of AITEO’s Noble Role’ Waldrum Replaces Omagbemi as Falcons Coach President of the Nigeria Football Federation, Mr. Amaju Melvin Pinnick has described as ‘well-deserved’ FIFA’s invitation of Mr. Francis Peters, Executive Vice Chairman/CEO of AITEO Group to next week’s FIFA Best Football Awards in London. “The invitation is a recognition of AITEO’s excellent support for Nigerian Football, which continues to expand, and this is an indication of the several possibilities derivable from supporting the game of football. Other corporate organizations should take a cue. “AITEO Group takes the cake for the way they came in big to back the NFF and Nigerian Football, and our partnership is one that is guaranteed to last for a
long time and be mutually beneficial,” Pinnick said yesterday. After sealing a partnership agreement for sponsorship of salaries of Coaches of the various National Teams, the leading energy solution company then annexed the country’s oldest and most glamorous football championship, the old FA Cup, with a multi –million naira sponsorship that has given a new life to the competition, which first edition was successfully concluded with the women’s finale in Jos on Wednesday. Pinnick insists Peters’ invitation to London is in recognition of AITEO’s ground-breaking partnership agreements with the Nigeria Football Federation that have energized the Nigerian game and set it on firm course to
a brighter and better future. The letter of invitation dated 27 September 2017 and addressed to Mr. Francis Ikena Peters, Executive Vice Chairman/CEO of AITEO Group, read, inter alia: “It is our pleasure to invite you to celebrate The Best of the football season in London. “The second edition of The Best FIFA Football Awards will take the game’s official annual celebration to even greater heights. Players, coaches and fans from around the world are already voting, and on 23 October, the greatest names in football will gather for the award show that crowns the top performers of the season.” The 2nd edition of The Best FIFA Football Awards will take place at the London Palladium, on Argyll Street, Soho, London on the night of Monday, 23rd October 2017.
The board of the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) has approved the appointment of American Randy Waldrum as new Super Falcons head coach. He has replaced Florence Omagbemi, who led the falcons to win the African Women’s Championship in Cameroon last year.
“The board approved the recommendation of the technical and development committee for the appointment of Mr. Randy Waldrum as Technical Adviser of the Super Falcons, and directed the Secretariat to immediately conclude negotiations with Waldrum,” read in part a
communiqué after the board meeting in Jos. The 61-year-old Waldrum coaches Houston Dash as well as the women’s team of Trinidad and Tobago. However, the board was silent on the appointment of the other national team coaches.
New England Coach May Recall Aluko Eniola Aluko could return to the England women’s team after interim head coach Mo Marley said she would “100” per cent consider picking the striker. The Chelsea forward, who has not played for England since April 2016, has been in a dispute with the Football Association over racial discrimination. On Wednesday, the FA apologised for comments made to Aluko by former England women’s manager Mark Sampson. Marley said: “It’s for me to find players in form, playing well.” Marley, 50, succeeded Sampson, who was sacked, on 29 September and will oversee a friendly against France today, followed by
World Cup qualifiers against Bosnia-Herzegovina and Kazakhstan in November. Asked if 30-year-old Aluko, who has scored 33 goals in 102 international caps, would have a way back into the setup, she told Sky Sports: “While I’m the manager, 100%. “We’ve had all the talent reporters out assessing everybody. It’s for me to find the players who can help us get to the World Cup and get from number three in the world to number one.” Aluko’s complaint - made in 2016 - saw her accuse Sampson of belittling her, making racist remarks to both her and a team-mate. Sampson was cleared in March 2017 but the investigation was re-opened in September in light of new
evidence. On Wednesday, FA chairman Greg Clarke and chief executive Martin Glenn answered questions at a hearing in parliament, prompting MP Damian Collins to state their handling of the investigation has cast “serious doubt” over their positions. Marley admits the controversy has proven “really difficult” for her squad to deal with in the build-up to their meeting with France. Aluko was joint top scorer in qualifying for the 2015 World Cup, and helped England to the bronze medal at the tournament. During her time out of the international setup, Aluko was top scorer in the 2016 Women’s Super League and claimed the title with Chelsea in 2017.
Europa: Narrow Win for Arsenal in Belgrade AITEO’s Executive Vice Chairman/CEO Francis Peters (right) with FIFA President Gianni Infantino at the UEFA Champions League final in Cardiff in May this year
Olivier Giroud’s stunning late strike gave Arsenal victory at 10-man Crvena Zvezda and kept them firmly on course to reach the Europa League knockout stage. Giroud produced the game’s
one moment of quality with an inventive overhead flick to hook the ball into the net. The goal came minutes after Milan Rodic was shown a second yellow card for a foul on Francis Coquelin.
Richmond Boakye hit the post for the hosts in the first half. Arsenal is top of Group H with nine points, four ahead of second-placed BATE Borisov.
Friday, October 20, 2017
TR
UT H
& RE A S O
N
Price: N250
MISSILE NSE to OANDO
“The NSE should implement a full suspension in the trading of the shares of Oando Plc and effective from Friday, 20 October 2017 and until further directive, the exchange should implement a technical suspension in the shares of Oando Plc” – The Nigerian Stock Exchange (NSE) wielding the big stick by suspending Oando oil and gas company shares pending the completion of its investigations into allegations of infractions levelled by two of its majority shareholders.
AKINOSUNTOKUN DIALOGUE WITH NIGERIA
akin.osuntokun@thisdaylive.com
The Witness of Untruth T
he two clichés that apply to the intervention of the former Minister of petroleum, Professor Tam David West on the troubling revelations at the NNPC are ‘when you find yourself in a hole and trying to get out, you stop digging’ and the other is a ‘cure worse than the disease’. Increasingly he has become the personification of a particular idiosyncrasythat of making the most absurd Trumpian logic and fictive statements with the certitude of a lawgiver. In an interview with the Punch, here is David West’s opening salvo. ‘Was there a Ministry of Petroleum Resources in (Shehu) Shagari’s time and during Buhari’s first term in government’? In other words, he is saying that there was no ministry of petroleum in those two dispensations Yet there was a certain Professor Tam David West who answered to the title of Minister of petroleum in, precisely, Buhari’s first term in government. Can you then imagine the same personality contending that no such ministry existed in that material dispensation? From this denial of his own existence, it was a catalogue of one mind bending apology after another (for infallible President Mohammadu Buhari and the NNPC Group Managing Director, GMD, Makanti Baru) in the ongoing revealing face-off with Minister Ibe Kachikwu. He waxes defiant “When you say that a minister of state is the boss of the GMD of NNPC, it is wrong. That cannot be. People are making those claims because of misconception. The minister of state in the First Republic was a minister without a portfolio. He cannot be a boss of the GMD of an oil industry”. Here is the problem. The prescribing authority, namely the President, who is constitutionally empowered to determine and delegate the authority of a Minister, says I am specifically appointing and designating you, Ibe Kachikwu as Minister of (state) petroleum-with the administrative schedule of supervising all agencies of government in the petroleum sector and report to me accordingly. And for there not to be any ambiguity about your appointment, you are further appointed as the chairman of the NNPC board. How much clear can the President communicate his action? Taking willful distortion to the next level, the Professor proceeded with the error of comparing apples and oranges. Given that he was an adult university graduate as far back as the First republic era, it is inexcusable that he seems not to realize that the First republic is as different from the Second, Third and Fourth republics, as the Westminster/ Parliamentary collective responsibility model is different from the executive Presidential system. By now it ought to have become common knowledge that under the former, the Prime Minister and the other cabinet Ministers are in office by virtue of being collectively members of the majority party in parliament. In the latter dispensation, one man, elected directly by the whole country, namely the President is vested with the discretionary executive authority to run the
Buhari
federal government and appoints whomsoever he wishes as Minister. Whereas the Prime Minister is first among equals whose authority is subsumed within the limitation of collective responsibility, the President is unfettered in his personification of the executive branch of government. If therefore this President has not appointed anyone as Minister without portfolio, it is the height of presumptive ignorance for uninformed pundits to put irrelevant jargons in his mouth. Buhari appointed Kachikwu as Minister of petroleum, not as Minister without portfolio. To the question, ‘Is Buhari not doing too much (saddling himself with too many responsibilities) as a President and Minister of petroleum? In characteristic overzealousness, David West proceeded to (unintentionally) damage the President by characterizing him as unfaithful to the commitment he voluntarily made. Said the Professor, ‘People have forgotten what he said when he resumed as President. He said that he would hold that position for 18 months, during which he intended to straighten things up in the place’. Well, according to the calendar of the Buhari administration, he has held on to the appointment now for upwards of 28 months. And to the logical follow-up question-‘shouldn’t Buhari step down as Minister since the 18 months have elapsed? David West responded ‘He will decide when to take that decision’. POLITICS OF DIVISION “If it looks like a duck, swims like a duck, and quacks like a duck, then it probably is a duck”. By now and even before he became the elected President of Nigeria, it has become a platitude rather than an accusation to suggest that President Muhammadu Buhari is firmly wedded to the politics of division, of pan Northern Nigerian Muslim irredentist politics. What needs to be explained is the fact that (to his credit) Nigerians, in full knowledge
of this shortcoming nonetheless elected him as President. This observation can do with a little qualification. If we break it down to the spatial distribution of his votes, his election was actually not a pan Nigerian mandate. It was Northern heavy and Southern light. What he lacked in comparable huge votes from the South, he made up for it in the overwhelming intellectual rationalization deployed in his favor by a preponderance of the Southern intelligentsia more so the South West. The crucial intellectual prop is exemplified by the skeptical support (but support nonetheless) of Professor Wole Soyinka. As he made clear in his statement of support, Soyinka did not gloss over the drawback of the irredentist politics of Buhari. The rationalization was that whatever he lacked in nationalistic broadmindedness is offset by his prior reputation as a proven anti-corruption crusader. Even to his most cynical critics, this was a plausible citation. On how he has fared on this strong point, the most generous concession is that the jury is still out. But whilst not making any discernable headway on this score, he has increasingly posted a renewed vigor in the politics of division. As we speak, no explanation, extenuation or apology has been tendered on the bizarre and blatantly discriminatory broadcast he made in Hausa language to the nation on the occasion of the Islamic Ramadan observance. Ditto the Freudian slip of committing to favor those who overwhelmingly voted for him at the expense of those Nigerians who did not. What has now matured into the Nigerian syndrome of parochialism engendered corruption and impunity ( as indicated in the NNPC story) was forewarned in the Punch editorial published a month after the problematic displacement of Kachikwu from his barely a year appointment as NNPC chief executive. On account of its contemporary relevance and prescience, the editorial is worth recalling once again. ‘It is a sad reality of the Nigerian experience that when crisis − political or economic − hits, segments of the populace retreat into ethnic and sectarian cocoons. It is in this combustible mix that Buhari stubbornly presses ahead with appointments that weigh heavily in favor of his Northern regional base. He struck again last month when he removed Ibe Kachikwu as head of the Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation to put a Northerner; Before then, he had ring-fenced himself with appointees from his Northern constituency at the Presidency, he recalled a retired officer to man the Department of State Services; a former army officer to head the Nigeria Customs Service; a personal acquaintance as Chief of Staff, and loaded the other security and law enforcement agencies heavily in favour of Northerners. While the DSS head is from his hometown, Daura, the others are also almost all Northerners and overwhelmingly Muslims’. Against this background, the turn the country has taken in recent weeks is perfectly predictable. As the NNPC controversy was
simmering, the World Bank President further clarified the Nigerian negativity with the revelation that Buhari had specifically requested him to divert World Bank intervention projects intended for Nigeria into the Northern half of the country. Said Kim “you know, in my very first meeting with President Buhari, he said specifically that he would like us to shift our focus to the Northern region of Nigeria and we’ve done that’. When the news broke, I anticipated the plausible defense of the request as legitimate prioritization of the North-East, where this extenuation runs into problems is that the request was made for the North, not the North-East and the factual investigation carried out by Punch in the world bank website removed any doubts on Buhari’s intention. Here are the facts ‘Findings on the World Bank website, showed that out of the 14 World Bank-sponsored projects in the country, seven are exclusively for the North, while six others are meant for the whole nation (South-West, South-South, South-East, North-West, NorthEast, North Central and North West); and the remaining one is for Lagos State. Titled ‘Projects and Operations’, these projects were listed under June 2015 – June 2017 projects. The implication is that in addition to solely getting the lion’s share of the projects, the North also shared in the remaining 50 per cent with the South-West, South-East and South-South. Projects exclusive to the northern region worth $1bn are: Multi-Sectoral Crisis Recovery Project for North-eastern Nigeria ($200m; Borno, Yobe and Adamawa); State Education Program Investment Project ($100m; North-East states); Community and Social Development Project ($75m; Borno, Yobe, Adamawa, Taraba, Bauchi, and Gombe); Youth Employment and Social Support Project ($100m; Borno, Yobe, Adamawa, Taraba, Bauchi, and Gombe States); Additional Financing Nigeria State Health Investment Project ($125m; Bauchi, Borno, Gombe, Taraba and Yobe) and the Third National Fadama Development Project ($50m; selected area in the North-East)’. ‘Projects worth $2.9bn were earmarked for the nation which northern states are also expected to benefit from. They are: Better Education Service Delivery for All ($611m); Mineral Sector Support for Economic Diversification Project ($150m); NEITI Reporting Compliance ($0.32m); the Polio Eradication Support Project ($125m); National Social Safety Nets Project ($1.8b); and $200m-Agro-Processing, Agricultural Productivity Enhancement and Livelihood Improvement Support Project specifically designed for Kano, Kaduna, Lagos, Cross River, Kogi, Enugu and three other states. There was also the Third Lagos State Development Policy Operation ($200m), a stand-alone project which was approved on June 26, 2015, and ended on December 31, 2016. The World Bank documents did not contain any programme or project specifically designed for the South-East, South-South (despite its double jeopardy) and the Middle Belt regions since Buhari got into power’.
Printed and Published in Lagos by THISDAY Newspapers Limited. Lagos: 35 Creek Road, Apapa, Lagos. Abuja: Plot 1, Sector Centre B, Jabi Business District, Solomon Lar Way, Jabi North East, Abuja . All Correspondence to POBox 54749, Ikoyi, Lagos. EMAIL: editor@thisdaylive.com, info@thisdaylive.com. TELEPHONE Lagos: 0802 2924721-2, 08022924485. Abuja: Tel: 08155555292, 08155555929 24/7 ADVERTISING HOT LINES: 0811 181 3086, 0811 181 3087, 0811 181 3088, 0811 181 3089, 0811 181 3090. ENQUIRIES & BOOKING: adsbooking@thisdaylive.com