THURSDAY 25TH JANUARY 2018

President Taps Edward Adamu New CBN Deputy Gov Senate doubles down on non-confirmation of nominees Maintains executive cannot pick and choose laws to obey Damilola Oyedele in Abuja and Obinna Chima in Lagos President Muhammadu Buhari has tapped Mr. Edward Lametek Adamu,

a Christian from Gombe State, as the new deputy governor of the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) to replace Mr. Suleiman Barau who retired last month.

Adamu, who was once the Director in charge of the Strategy Management Department of the CBN, is currently the Director of Human Resources with the

Bank, a position he has held since 2016.

THISDAY gathered that the deputy governor nominee has more than 25 years experience working with the

central bank, which has seen him serving in almost every aspect of its operations.

However, his nomination would be subject to the approval by the Senate.

Adamu, who is 57 years, hails from Kaltungo Local Government Area in Gombe State.

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NNPC Says It Earned $239m from Crude Sales in Nov…

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EFCC Detains Former SGF, Babachir Lawal Paul Obi in Abuja The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) yesterday detained the former Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF) Mr. Babachir Lawal over corruption allegations and diversion of funds when he superintended the Presidential Initiative on the North-east (PINE).

Confirming his arrest and detention yesterday, the EFCC Head of Enlightenment and Reorientation, Mr. Samin Amaddin said: “He was arrested for abuse of office in relation to the diversion of funds meant for humanitarian intervention Continued on page 6

EGINA FPSO FINALLY BERTHS IN NIGERIA…

L-R: Chairman, Lagos Deep Offshore Logistics Base (LADOL), Mr. Ladi Jadesimi; Group General Manager, National Petroleum Investment Management Services (NAPIMS), Mr. Roland Ewubare; Deputy Managing Director, Total E & P Nigeria Limited, Mr. Ahmadu-Kida Musa; Managing Director, Nigerian Ports Authority (NPA), Ms. Hadiza Bala-Usman; Managing Director, Total E & P Nigeria, Mr. Nicolas Terraz; and Managing Director, LADOL, Dr. Amy Jadesimi, when the $3.8bn Egina FPSO arrived at the LADOL Free Zone in Lagos from South Korea…yesterday

FG Deflects Obasanjo’s Criticism, Lists President Buhari’s Achievements Pledges to end herders-farmers’ clashes APC rejects alternative coalition, PDP denies procuring court judgment

Omololu Ogunmade and Onyebuchi Ezigbo in Abuja Twenty-four hours after former President Olusegun Obasanjo issued a 13-page statement admonishing

See more reactions on page 54 President Muhammadu Buhari not to contest 2019 polls because of his

perceived failure, the federal government yesterday in Abuja responded to Obasanjo, saying it has accepted his admonition in good faith.

Briefing journalists at

the end of a five-hour Federal Executive Council (FEC) meeting at the State House, Abuja, the Minister of Information, Alhaji Lai Mohammed, who described Obasanjo as a

patriot, however, said the ex-president was not aware of the achievements of the administration due to his busy schedule.

According to him, whereas the former

president acknowledged the administration’s performance in the area of the anti-graft war and fight against the insurgency, he was obviously Continued on page 6

Six Killed in Plateau After Communal Clash, Herdsmen Attack…

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PAGE SIX FG DEFLECTS OBASANJO'S CRITICISM, LISTS PRESIDENT BUHARI'S ACHIEVEMENTS not acquainted with the strides in the management of the economy because of his busy schedule.

Mohammed who stated that the government had no reason to impugn any ulterior motive to the former president’s statement, pointed out that Obasanjo had proven time after time again that he is only driven by the well-being of the nation and conveyed the government’s appreciation to him for his concern. “For the record, Chief Obasanjo is a patriot, and he has proven this time and time again. We appreciate what he said concerning the administration’s performance in two out of the three key issues that formed the plank of its campaign: Fighting corruption and tackling the insurgency. “Specifically, the former president said President Buhari must be given credit for his achievements so far

in these two areas. We thank him for this. “Apparently, the former president believes that the administration does not deserve a pass mark in the area of the economy, which is the third of our three-pronged campaign promise. “We have no doubt that in the face of the massive challenges in this area, this administration has availed itself creditably. We believe that Chief Obasanjo, because of his very busy schedules, may not have been fully availed of developments in the government’s efforts to revamp the economy, which was battered by the consequences of overdependence on a commodity as well as unprecedented pillaging of the treasury. “Finally, we have no reason to believe that former President Obasanjo had any motive beyond the well-being of the nation in issuing his

special press statement. “We have also taken his admonition in good faith and we thank him most sincerely for taking time off his busy schedules to pen such a long statement,� Mohammed stated.

Mohammed who further said the Buhari administration was not unaware of the enormity of the challenges confronting the nation, added that the government was up to the task and will leave no stone unturned in putting smiles on the faces of Nigerians.

He also said the government was determined to end the protracted crisis between herders and farmers and appealed to Nigerians to have faith in the administration’s ability to tackle the menace.

On Obasanjo’s verdict that Buhari should forget 2019 because of his perceived lack of capacity to handle the enormous task confronting the country, Mohammed said

the president had in recent times been inundated with calls to either run or not to run, describing the calls as distractions.

According to him, the president was instead engrossed in his commitment to the mandate given to him by his countrymen in 2015. “This administration is not unaware of the enormity of the challenges facing the nation, but we are up to the task. We have taken the bull by the horns, and longsuffering Nigerians will begin to experience a new lease of life as our efforts yield fruits.

We will not go into a state of funk for whatever reason. “On the herders-farmers’ clashes, this administration is determined to end the crisis resulting from this once and for all, not minding the fact that the clashes predate us. “I will urge Nigerians to have faith in the administration’s ability to

resolve the crisis and to watch out for concrete measures in this regard. “On whether or not President Muhammadu Buhari should run for another term, it is true that many Nigerians have been calling on the president to run again, while others are opposed to his return. “However, we believe this issue is a distraction for the president at this time. This is because Mr. President spends every waking hour tackling the enormous challenges facing the nation, most of which were bequeathed to his administration by successive past administrations. “He is committed to fulfilling the mandate given to him by Nigerians in 2015.

And that is where we are right now,� Mohammed stated.

The minister, who then proceeded to reel out the achievements of the administration to convince

Obasanjo that it has not failed, highlighted government activities in the areas of the economy, transportation, road infrastructure and agriculture.

According to him, all indices today point to a promising economy, insisting that the economy was making progress and results had confirmed this. “Today, most of the indices by which an economy is measured are looking up.

Permit me to say, however, that Nigeria would not have exited the recession through a mere order or if the administration had not made use of ‘good Nigerians’ who could help. “This administration is making steady progress in its determined effort to revamp the economy and the results are showing: “Foreign Reserves have peaked at $40 billion, the highest level in about four

capacity as SGF, was at the time unable to account for N2.5 billion allocated to it for the alleviation of the humanitarian crisis in internally displaced persons (IDP) camps in the region.

Lawal’s crime, according to the ad-hoc committee, included his alleged spending of N570 million to cut grass.

Rholavision Engineering Ltd, a company owned by him, was also said to have got suspicious

payments of N200 million from the contract.

Rholavision’s bank statements and other documents revealed how Josmon Technologies Ltd, a company that got the contract from PINE to clear grass for N248,939,231, made cash deposits of N10 million into Lawal’s company’s account 20 times from March 29.

Although the former SGF had claimed that he resigned from his company on August

15, 2015, and as a result was not a party to whatever business it contracted, documents at the Corporate Affairs Commission (CAC) showed that he was a director of Rholavision until September 16, 2016, when he wrote to the commission informing it of his intention to relinquish 1,500,000 ordinary shares.

After sacking him, Buhari said he expected anti-graft agencies to go after him.

enables the CBN to carry out one of its primary roles of setting interest rates and formulating monetary policies to ensure price stability and engender growth.

Owing to the inability of the MPC to hold its meeting, the CBN governor Godwin Emefiele, announced on Monday that the monetary policy rate, among other key ratios, decided by the committee at its November meeting, will be retained.

The confirmation process for Buhari’s nominations of Prof.

Adeola Festus Adenikinju, Dr. Aliyu Rafindadi Sanusi, Dr. Robert Chikwendu Asogwa and Dr. Asheikh A. Maidugu as members of the MPC has been stalled by the executivesenate impasse over the confirmation of the acting chairman of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), Mr. Ibrahim Magu.

Other nominations into top positions at the central bank that were also affected by the Senate’s resolution included the deputy governordesignate of the CBN, Ms. Aisha Ahmad, and five non-executive directors for the Bank.

Magu has been retained in an acting capacity despite his rejection twice by the Senate, which declined to confirm him as the substantive head of the anti-graft agency.

The impasse was made worse by Vice-President Yemi Osinbajo’s comment that the position of the EFCC chairman does not require the confirmation of the Senate, as it was not specified in the constitution, compelling the Senate to state that it will

seek legal interpretation of his remark.

Given its stance, the Senate resolved to suspend the confirmation process for all nominees of the president, arguing that the executive cannot choose what laws to obey and what laws not to obey.

Saraki’s statement yesterday confirmed recent reports by THISDAY that the upper legislative chamber was not willing to budge on its resolution on the matter.

The Senate President did not specifically refer to the MPC, but his comment was made in reaction to a point of order raised by Senator Mao Ohuabunwa regarding nominations into the board of the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC).

Ohuabunwa had observed that while the board of the commission had been inaugurated and was functional, about three states out of the nine oil-producing states were not represented on the board.

Their nominations were affected by the Senate’s resolution.

The senator, however, appealed that the outstanding NDDC nominees be exempted from the resolution, as the process for their confirmation was already ongoing before the resolution was passed to suspend the confirmation process. “I am bringing this before you to consider and allow the committee to complete the screening, as these two or three states are left unattended to. Things are moving on, the commission is working and

that is why I have come to you this morning to exempt NNDC from that resolution,�

Ohuabunwa said.

Saraki, however, ruled that the appeal could only be considered if the process had already begun before the resolution was taken. “I am happy that you made reference to the fact that we all here at the Senate passed a resolution on this matter.

The issue you just raised, we will look at it to see if the exercise started before the resolution. “I know this resolution we took it in March, I remember at the end of March last year.

So the secretariat should check the records. “If it (confirmation process) had started before (the resolution), we will look into it, but if it had started after, except that resolution is rescinded we are all bound by that resolution,� Saraki said.

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EFCC DETAINS FORMER SGF, BABACHIR LAWAL in the North-east. “He is still in detention and will be here till tomorrow (today) when we will continue with the interrogation because he has not concluded his statement.�

Lawal’s arrest may also not be unconnected to Tuesday’s 13-page statement by former President Olusegun Obasanjo accusing President Muhammadu Buhari of condoning corruption,

particularly with the reinstatement of the former Chairman of the Presidential Pension Task Force, Mr. Abdulrasheed Maina.

Another EFCC source said Lawal arrived at the commission’s headquarters in Abuja around 11 a.m., after which he was interrogated.

The source said the former SGF, who was dismissed by Buhari last October, would spend the night at the EFCC

and his interrogation would continue around 11 a.m. today, reported The Cable.

Lawal’s travails began on December 14, 2016, when the Senate ad-hoc committee on the mounting humanitarian crisis in the North-east indicted him for fraud in a contract awarded for the clearing of “invasive plant species� in Yobe State through PINE. PINE, which was under Lawal supervision in his

PRESIDENT TAPS EDWARD ADAMU NEW CBN DEPUTY GOV He holds a Quantity Surveying degree from the Ahmadu Bello University (ABU), Zaria, and is a Fellow of the Nigerian Institute of Quantity Surveyors.

He also holds postgraduate professional certifications in corporate strategy development and execution, performance management, programme & project management and knowledge management.

Adamu is a fellow of the Institute of Credit Administration of Nigeria and has acquired skill-sets in strategic leadership, central banking, finance, human resources, organisational transformation, risk management, budgeting and cost management, construction management, records management, communications and relationship management, coaching and mentoring and procurement through a variety of Wharton School USA, INSEAD France, Chicago Booth & IMD Switzerland courses and practical experience.

He is also a frequent presenter at professional conferences, seminars and symposia, especially in the areas of leadership, human capital management, project management, construction, strategy and risk management.

Adamu is in addition an active member of other professional bodies such as the the Project Management Institute, USA; International Knowledge Management Institute, USA; International Society for Performance Improvement, USA; and the Association of Project

Managers, UK. In 2012, he was appointed Director of the Strategy Management Department of the CBN in recognition of his depth of operational knowledge of the Bank’s mandate and core responsibilities as well as the breadth of CBN’s strategy implementation experience.

In that role, he was said to have demonstrated an ability to quickly identify and proffer realistic and workable solutions to complex and competing demands of the various sections of the Bank.

In addition, the deputy governor nominee was responsible for working with the CBN board in ensuring that the Bank had a clearly articulated strategy that would ensure the delivery of its mandate, organisational alignment and focus on strategy – from development to execution – by integrating strategy-focused concepts, principles, and best practices into the fabric, cadence, and processes of the organisation.

To effectively undertake the responsibility, he worked with Messrs Palladium Consultants in developing the first Strategy Execution Framework in the Bank in 2012.

Also, he was responsible for the organisational transformation programme of the Bank.

As the Director of Strategy, he was also a member of the Monetary Policy Implementation Committee and the Financial Services Regulatory Coordination Committee, as well as an observer at the Monetary

Policy Committee (MPC) meetings.

In 2016, Adamu was appointed Director, Human Resources Department of the Bank to give effect to the human resources transformation programme initiated during his role as Director, Strategy Management.

Until his nomination as deputy governor, he was tasked with developing the human capital assets of the central bank to be more innovative in dealing with current challenges, and becoming quickly adaptive to future changing needs.

Still No ConďŹ rmation Process Despite his nomination as deputy governor-designate, Adamu would most likely face the same fate as other nominees of the president, as hopes that the Senate may soon consider the nominations of four members of the CBN’s MPC were dashed yesterday, when the legislative body doubled down on its position not to consider any nominations from the president not specified in the Constitution.

Senate President Bukola Saraki, speaking at plenary session, said the Senate remains bound by its resolution taken in March 2017.

The MPC was unable to hold its first meeting of this year last Monday, following its inability to form a quorum with eight positions on the 12-member committee vacant.

The meeting is crucial and

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Saraki Pays Tribute to Music Legend, Hugh Masekela President of the Senate, Dr. Bukola Saraki, has paid tribute to the late South African music legend, Hugh Masekela, calling him a statesman of African music.

Saraki in a statement yesterday by his media aide, Yusuph Olaniyonu, said with Masekela’s death at the age of 78, the world had lost a boundless creative spirit, “one who made immense contributions to the body of African arts, especially music�. “Song is the literature of South Africa,� the man himself said, and he wrote a significant volume of that literature, Saraki noted.

According to Saraki, Masakela’s music was part of the soundtrack of the anti-Apartheid struggle. “With his trumpet and voice, Masekela gave expression to life under the Apartheid regime

and heralded the release of Nelson Mandela and majority rule,� Saraki observed. “He paid dearly for this activism, spending more than three decades of his life in exile. Yet he never stopped playing, and he never stopped smiling.

He worked with Fela Anikulapo-Kuti and his son, Femi Kuti; met and collaborated with some of the world’s best performers including: Miriam Makeba, Harry Belafonte, Louis Armstrong, Angelique Kidjo and Paul Simon,� he added.

The Senate President called Masekela’s classic album, Grazing in the Grass “a touchstone�.

He condoled with the South African nation and music lovers around the world on the passing of the musician, who he described as irreplaceable.

Masekela

FG DEFLECTS OBASANJO'S CRITICISM, LISTS PRESIDENT BUHARI'S ACHIEVEMENTS years, and up from $24 billion just a year ago, even though when we came in, the price of oil had crashed woefully. “According to the National Bureau of Statistics (NBC), headline inflation has fallen for 11 consecutive months, standing at 15.37 per cent as of December 2017. This is the lowest inflation rate since January 2017, and it has met and surpassed the target set for inflation in the administration’s Economic Recovery and Growth Plan (ERGP). “Our determined implementation of the Treasury Single Account (TSA) has stopped the hemorrhaging of the treasury. Some N108 billion has been saved from the removal of maintenance fees payable to banks, pre-TSA. The nation is being saved N24.7 billion monthly with the full implementation of the TSA. “The elimination of ghost workers has saved the nation N120 billion. The $1.8 billion of capital inflows in the second quarter of 2017 almost doubled the $908 million in the first quarter. “In the wake of a stable naira and increased investment inflows, Nigeria’s stock market emerged one of the best-performing in the world, delivering returns in excess of 40 per cent. Nigeria rose 24 places on the World Bank’s Ease of Doing Business ranking, and earned a place on the List of Top 10 reformers in the world. “According to Q3 2017 figures, agriculture export were up year-on-year by 25 per cent, solid minerals exports were up year-on-year by 78 per cent, raw materials exports were up 70 per cent year-onyear, and manufactured goods exports were up 22 per cent year-on-year. “Government agencies such as the Nigeria Customs Service are reporting the highest ever revenue collection, while JAMB, under the new management appointed by President Buhari in 2016, remitted N7.8 billion to the coffers of the federal government. The total amount

remitted by JAMB between 2010 and 2016 was a paltry N51 million! “These positive indices may not have immediately impacted positively on Nigerians, but Nigerians will definitely get a new lease of life a short while from now. “This is because the good news from the agriculture sector, which is recording a bumper harvest, will bring down the cost of foodstuff, especially for such staples as rice, and our massive Social Investment Programme will ease the pain of the most vulnerable in the society. “When we assumed office in 2015, some six million farmers were involved in rice production. Thanks to the anchor borrowers’ programme of this administration, we have grown that number to over 12 million farmers. The result is that our rice imports from Thailand alone have dropped from 644 metric tonnes to 22,000 MT in just two years.

This is phenomenal. “Apart from rice, Nigeria is also doing well in other grains, especially millet, sorghum and maize. We are now the second largest producer of sorghum after the U.S., the third in millet after India, and our breweries are now enjoying local sourcing of those commodities. “For maize, we are producing 10 million tons while we need about 13 million tons for both human and animal consumption.

Nigeria leads the world in the yam and cassava production.

We account for 70 per cent of the world’s yam production.

In two years, we hope to be the world's largest exporter of yam! “Overall, our ambition is that agriculture should rise from 25 per cent to 40 per cent of GDP, so that we can banish poverty and overcome our economic anxiety. “Our Social Investment Programme is Nigeria’s most ambitious social welfare programme ever. Currently, 5.2 million primary school children in 28,249 schools

in 19 states are being fed daily; 200,000 unemployed graduates have enlisted into the N-power job scheme; and a quarter of a million loans already distributed to artisans, traders, and farmers. “Finally, our investment in infrastructure is simply unprecedented.

This is because infrastructure is key to faster economic growth and development. Here is a synopsis of what we have done in this area: r 1PXFS (FOFSBUJPO BU BO all-time high of 7,000MW and all can be transmitted. r 3BJM -BHPT ,BOP TUBOEBSE gauge is on. Lagos-Ibadan sector ready 2019, KanoKaduna ready 2019; the entire stretch ready 2021; negotiations on for coastal rail covering 15 cities from Lagos to Calabar. r 3PBET NBKPS IJHIXBZT being funded with the N100 billion Sukuk bond, and all geo-political zones are benefitting equally,�

Mohammed submitted.

The federal government, however, did not respond to Obasanjo’s accusation of nepotism and clannishness that he levelled against the president.

APC Rejects Alternative Coalition The federal government, nonetheless, was not left in its reaction to the former president’s statement, as the All Progressives Congress (APC) also objected to the call made by Obasanjo for the formation of a new coalition that will sack the present crop of leadership in the country from power and enthrone a more purposeful one.

The ruling party said that just as it disagreed with the former president on his assessment of the Buhari administration, it also found the wholesale dismissal of the entire political system in the country as uncalled for.

In a statement yesterday, the National Publicity Secretary of the APC, Mallam Bolaji Abdullahi said Obasanjo should not give the impression

that none of the political parties in the country is good enough for Nigerians. “It is for this reason that we disagree with the former president in what appears like a wholesale dismissal of the entire political system in the country. “We acknowledge our challenges as a new political party, even as we believe that the APC remains the best option at this time for all Nigerians who are genuinely committed to the progress and development of the country,� he said.

While opposing the call for a new coalition that would oust both APC and the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) from the stage, the APC spokesman said there are about 72 political parties in the country and that the people reserved the right to support any of them. “Our democracy itself is young and hence all the parties face sundry challenges, but we have made progress since 1999, with President Obasanjo himself being a major contributor to our progress as a multi-party democracy. “It is for this reason that we believe the respected former president should not give the impression that none of the political parties in the country is good enough for Nigerians and the only solution to the current challenges that we face is a completely new arrangement. “The task of building a political party is not done overnight. Even the oldest of our political parties is still very young in comparison with advanced democracies. “Our democracy therefore stands a better chance of becoming really strong if we allow the parties to find their identities, even if in the process they make mistakes and appear to be ‘wobbling’.

No political party arrives fully formed,� he said.

On the criticism of the APC-led administration, the party said it did not agree with everything the former

president said, especially on his assessment of the government and the ruling party.

APC, however, said that it accepts that some of the sundry issues raised by the former president were made in good faith and would take responsibility for it with a view to addressing them in due course. “We are the ruling party.

We must take responsibility.

We will take valuable lessons on board and continue to improve. Regardless of the current challenges, we are confident that a brighter future is assured for our party and our country. “As a father of the nation, we understand that the former president would feel obliged to intervene if certain things are not being done or are not being done in a particular way. “However, we believe that such interventions should be for the sole purpose of improving the system and encouraging the relevant institutions to work harder in improving certain situations. “APC calls on all our supporters across the country to remain strong and steadfast.

These are challenging times.

But we cannot afford to react to public criticism with any form of emotionalism,� he said.

PDP Denies Procuring Judgment The main opposition party, the PDP, which also drew some flak from Obasanjo, also in statement yesterday denied that it procured a judgment from the Supreme Court that settled the leadership tussle in the party last year, contrary to the claims made by the former president in his 13page statement on Tuesday.

The National Publicity Secretary of the PDP, Kola Ologbondiyan, said in the statement that the main opposition platform represents the true coalition of Nigerians from across the country.

The party said Obasanjo’s claim on the procurement

of the judgment amounted to an ill-intended attempt to impugn the integrity of the Supreme Court, particularly when such a claim was false and not predicated on any empirical proof.

It said the ruling of the Supreme Court, which ended the protracted internal feud within its fold, rather than detract, reinforced the confidence of Nigerians in the PDP as the platform that truly embodies the resilience of a genuine democratic process in the face of daunting challenges.

According to the party, even the worst critics of PDP have conceded that the judgment of the Supreme Court was unprejudiced, uninfluenced and determined completely on merit, for which it was applauded in Nigeria and across the world.

It also stated that the conduct of its December elective national convention “in a transparent, free and fair manner and where nobody was ‘kingmaker’, denotes the democratic credentials of the repositioned PDP to deliver credible primaries that would yield a presidential candidate Nigerians desire�.

PDP noted that its experience in governance and successful rebound from its challenges had given it an edge over every other existing or intended political platform in Nigeria.

While stressing that there was an extensive dissimilarity between it and the APC, the PDP argued that while it remains nationally populist and development-driven, “the APC by orientation and composure is arrogant, inept and anti-people, hence the nationwide detestation against it�.

It further stated that unlike the APC, where very few individuals from within a circle control the instrument of power and governance, the PDP “remains that egalitarian platform where all Nigerians are free to express themselves, politically engage and freely aspire for any office without regard to divisive considerations�.

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

SOUTH AFRICA, NIGERIA AND EDUCATION DISASTER

Okello Oculi argues that Nigeria and South Africa are allies in denying education to majorities of their population in rural communities

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he opposition by the Nigerian Labour Congress (NLC) to the expulsion, by the Kaduna State government, from its schools of over 25,000 teachers who had failed to pass a test set for Primary Four pupils is similar to activities of the South African Democratic Teachers Union (SADTU), an ally of the ruling African National Congress (ANC). In a test administered in 2007, 79 per cent of teachers of state primary schools for South Africa’s Blacks ‘’scored below the level expected of the pupils’’.

In Ekiti State, teachers vigorously resisted tests carried out in South Africa. Sokoto, Zamfara, Kano and other states are yet to have Kaduna’s courage.

The ECONOMIST magazine reports that the SADTU ‘’successfully lobbied for the cancellation of standardisation tests’’ which would have exposed deficiencies in performances by teachers and the status of learning by pupils.

A recent BBC documentary showed a typical South Korean secondary school culture of pupils mandatorily being inside a classroom by 8 a.m.

After regular lessons, students attend ‘’extra-lessons’’ till 10 p.m. and top up with personal study till 12 midnight. Visiting students from Wales were overwhelmed by the tyranny of sleep when their Korean hosts launched the 10 p.m. lap. When a one-hour Mathematics test set from Wales was administered, Korean students completed it in 15 minutes while their guests were still plodding at it. Nigeria and South Africa are stuck in historical swamps of denial of education to majorities of their population in rural and riverine communities.

South Africa has 25,000 schools. In the Eastern Cape Province a total of 500 schools have mud walls, while formerly segregated schools for white children have exquisite architectures, vast campuses and lawns as smooth as Britain’s top football pitches. Under ‘’apartheid’’, the Bantu Education Act of 1953 virtually prohibited the teaching of mathematics and sciences to Black pupils. The white minister of education proclaimed that they were to be ‘’hewers of wood and carriers of water’’ for European immigrants.

The legacy of this brutal policy is that by 2015 as high as 27 per cent of pupils who had attended school for six years could not read. In Zimbabwe, 19 % of pupils could not read. In Tanzania the figure was only 4 %. The South African condition was also compounded by the political boycott of classes by Black students against condemning them to learning only AFRIKAANS language, thereby crippling their ability to understand radio broadcasts in the English language by leaders of liberation struggles living in Tanzania and in exile elsewhere.

The boycott was marked by pupils breaking up classroom desks, chairs and other teaching aides. They also beat up their Black teachers, while groups of them could pull a driver out of his car; beat him to

death, and calmly return to playing street football. Angus Duffett, owner of a reformist private school, noted in 2016 that ‘’the desire to learn has been eroded as a ‘’deeper sickness’’ which subsequently afflicted the education culture in South Africa. It is little wonder that in a 2015 test in mathematics and science taken by 580,000 pupils in 57 countries, South Africa often scored lowest marks. Some who wish to build ignorance about apartheid as a ‘’crime against humanity’’ have started a campaign against teaching History in schools.

BOTH COUNTRIES HAVE 80 PER CENT OF THEIR PEOPLE TRAPPED IN POVERTY YET EDUCATION IS NOT PROMOTING ECONOMIC ‘INCLUSIVENESS’

The erosion of ‘’the desire to learn’’ among Nigerian pupils have strong Verwoerd-like roots anchored in strong colonial and post-colonial political classes fearful of the spread of literacy among the masses: including education for women. South Africa’s White rulers closed ‘’most independent church-run schools that provided good education in Black areas’’. In Nigeria, the 1970s saw rising claims that taking control of schools away from religious denominations in the 1960s caused the collapse of standards of education. In the North, pupils struggled to handle low competence in the use of English by teachers recruited from Pakistan, India, and Philippines. Nigerian teachers lost morale when their tenures were suddenly converted to contract service.

In areas that were hit by the 1967 to 1970 civil war, schooling was wrecked and war injected horrendous violence into experiences of children; devalued the moral status of teachers in local communities, and mobilised youths into militarised manhood.

Remedial responses in South Africa have included forcing black pupils into schools for whites; reform-minded individuals starting private schools with women teachers not forced to provide sexual favours to get jobs, and teachers receiving regular ‘’refresher training’’.

Some private schools are receiving help from schools in Britain and the Americas. Paradoxically, corruption promoted by SADTU is wrecking the quality of education for Blacks just as apartheid had done. In Nigeria dreadful statistics of over 15 million children not inside classrooms 50 years after independence, is also similar to British colonial policy, albeit with a little improvement.

Both countries have 80 per cent of their people trapped in poverty yet education is not promoting economic ‘’inclusiveness’’. Primary schools are NOT FOR TRAINING HIGH QUALITY SKILLS that would equip its mass graduates for quality productivity, notably: weaving of textiles; winning government contracts for wood products for school furniture and global urban consumers. Politicians import grinders, generators, tractors for voters instead of funding their fabrications as the road to self-reliant rural industrialisation.

RESTRUCTURING THE PUBLIC SERVICE TOWARDS EFFICIENCY The federal civil service is being repositioned for service delivery, writes Mohammed Sule

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he Nigerian civil service is reviewing the process of governance and introducing tougher and more competitive methods of providing service to the general public and working strongly on its external relations to restore investor’s confidence.

It is very clear that the President Muhammadu Buhari-led administration is critical to ensuring that the public service, and by extension the private sector, collaborates to drive growth in the economy, especially in some major sectors that are capable of creating employment and boosting the manufacturing and industrial sub-sectors of our national life.

To further strengthen its resolve to implement the federal government national development plan in the country in line with vision 20: 20: 20, the Office of the Head of Civil Service of the Federation (OHCSF) has taken a critical look at its performance towards building and developing capacity for civil servants and efforts to create employment through various entrepreneurial and skill acquisition programmes.

One of the key programmes embarked upon by the OHCSF since the assumption of office by Mrs Winifred Oyo-Ita is anchored on the Strategic Implementation Plan (2017-2020) put in place to reposition the Federal Civil Service. The plan which has since been approved by the Federal Executive Council (FEC) is in line with the change mantra of President Buhari’s administration and is also intendant with the recently launched National Economic Recovery and Growth Plan (ERGP).

The plan which would bring significant change in the civil service has eight priority areas namely: re-design and re-launch of three core-training modules to improve staff competencies and skills through well-targeted and funded programmes across all grade levels; the launch of Strategic Sourcing of Identified Skills to bring in external talents from the private sector to drive high level impact in the reform areas through partnership;

result-based institutionalised performance management to enhance merit in the civil service; drive business innovation in service through dedicated innovation units established in the MDAs; launch efficient, productive, incorruptible and citizen-centred (EPIC) culture transformation for improved values- driven civil service.

However, there is also focus on establishing an enterprise content management solution for digitalisation of records and automated work flow across the organisations; and to launch a salary review in the civil service that is attractive and sustainable for workers.

The achievements of the OHCSF under these priority areas include: putting in place necessary infrastructure for the take-off of the Human Resource (HR) Module of the Integrated Personnel and Payroll Information System (IPPIS). The HR module is to complement the payroll component of the IPPIS platform to ensure accurate data of all civil servants and reduce wastage.

Only last week the Office concluded a weeklong intensive sensitisation/publicity campaign to make all MDAs upload their structures and IPPIS records on the portal. The drive also included the online records updates of all federal government employees which was lacking in the past.

In order to enhance professionalism and meritocracy in the civil service, a Performance Management System (PMS) policy guidelines and tools have been developed for the Federal Public Service. The PMS tools are currently being testrun in the Federal Ministry of Agriculture and the Office of the Head of the Civil Service of the Federation and a validation meeting of stakeholders will be held to formally make a presentation at the FEC for consideration and approval.

Again, the Nigerian civil service has always been viewed from the background of nonperformance and lack of efficiency with deliberate attempts of corrupt practices of taking bribes from contractors before files are processed for payment or award letters.

Nigerians have since lost confidence in the

manner government business was managed with complete absence of transparency and accountability, gross abuse of financial processes and public procurement which was reduced to money for hand, back for ground.

Today, it is becoming very clear that the reform process introduced by the current leadership of the head of service is yielding results as workers welfare, promotion and backlog of allowances are being paid as well as the review and elongation of salary structure for civil servants.

In order to strengthen reforms, the OHCSF established the Directors, Reforms Coordination and Service Improvement Consultative Forum, aimed at providing a platform for knowledge, information and experience sharing among members.

The head of service recently settled out of court the outstanding promotion examination for Deputy Directors (Administration) which has been pending for the last three years. The promotion examination to the post of Director (Administration) was subsequently held in collaboration with the Federal Civil Service Commission (FCSC), To develop further the capacity of civil servants, government has successfully resuscitated its training programmes across the MDAs towards growth driven and more efficient civil service and ease of doing business.

Following the merger of some Ministries, Departments and Agencies by this administration to reduce overhead cost and improve efficiency in service delivery, a 16-member committee comprising four former HOSs, five former Permanent Secretaries and five serving Permanent Secretaries, was constituted to review the structure of the affected MDAs. The committee has submitted its report and the recommendations have been affected accordingly.

Approval has also been granted for the restructuring of some offices for effective service.

They include the Office of the Head of the Civil Service of the Federation (OHCSF), National

Agency for Great Green Wall (NAGGW), Nigeria Immigration Service (NIS), Pharmacist Council of Nigeria (PCN), National Institute for Educational Planning and Administration (NIEPA), Optometrist and Dispensing Opticians Registration Board, Nigeria Institute of Soil Science and Corporate Affairs Commission (CAC); In order to ensure optimum manning level in the MDAs and also to obtain necessary data on the size of the workforce of MDAs, the 2017 Manpower Budget Exercise was successfully concluded with the issuance of authorised establishment to MDAs. To further improve service delivery in the civil service, the Federal Digital Service Centre was launched. The centre is a place where civil servants, both serving and retired can place calls to make enquiries about the service. The centre also provides information to the public and serves as a link to PENCOM and PTAD. The Office also established a knowledge acquisition centre. The centre is equipped with computers and servers loaded with wide range of materials for research. The facility offers opportunities to civil servants to access information, update their skills and keep abreast with international standards and best global practices in government service.

On the issue of improved welfare and benefit packages for civil servants, the Federal Integrated Staff Housing (FISH) programme was established.

The FISH programme was launched in 2016 under Public- Private Partnership (PPP) initiative.

The idea behind the scheme is that relevant bodies; namely Ministry of Finance, Federal Capital Territory and Ministry of Power, Works and Housing will assist and provide the required inputs to reduce the cost of houses thereby making them affordable within affordability index. Already, more than 20 developers have been selected and their 1500 housing units of two, three and four bedrooms have been uploaded into the FISH scheme for immediate purchase by civil servants with over 23,000 beneficiaries.

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EDITORIAL VANDALISM AND THE POWER SECTOR Security agencies should ensure criminals are brought to book

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s the nation continues to grapple with persistent power outages and unreliable electricity supply, this most critical sector is currently beset by the twin problems of theft and vandalism of its transformer and power-line cables. Yet, the obvious implication of this unfortunate situation is that most Nigerians will continue to experience darkness in their homes. We hope the establishment of the Nigeria Police Anti-Electricity Vandalism Response Squad (AEVRS) will offer practical solutions to the menace.

According to the Inspector-General of Police (IGP), Ibrahim Idris, between January and September last year, half a billion naira worth of equipment was lost to vandals in just four states. “On daily basis, wanton destruction of electricity infrastructure is recorded with monumental economic loss to the Nigerian economy. As a result of this deliberate economic sabotage, businesses have been disrupted, means of livelihood destroyed and the quantum loss of much needed government revenue, just to mention but a COMMUNITIES SHOULD few�, said Idris who BE VIGILANT BY KEEPING listed 233 cases of A CLOSE EYE ON vandalism of electricity EQUIPMENT WITHIN THEIR infrastructure in Abuja, NEIGHBOURHOOD Nasarawa, Kogi and Niger States within the period.

There is no doubt that the incidents of theft and equipment vandalism are really costing the nation huge sums of money. Besides, the immediate consequence of this criminality is that life is made more difďŹ cult for law abiding citizens who are thrown into darkness due to erratic and unreliable power supply. Also, the nation’s economy is seriously threatened as industries are being shut down and employees laid off because companies cannot meet production target as many operate below their installed capacity.

While we lament this deplorable situation, we restate our earlier position that the menace of electricity equip-

Letters to the Editor

ment vandals persists because of the existence of some “marketâ€? for the stolen items. Obviously no criminal would be foolish enough to take the risk of stealing whole transformers and power-line cables without having an assured off-taker market somewhere ready to buy such equipment. Sometimes these stolen transformers and other equipment turn up for resupply by contractors in the sector. After all, no single individual can afford the purchase and installation of such specialised equipment without the active connivance of the ofďŹ cials.

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t is unfortunate that as the nation remains overburdened with the quest for improved and steady power supply, there are unpatriotic elements hell-bent on sabotaging government efforts and throwing their fellow citizens into hardship. It is therefore time that the authorities took serious measures against these criminals. To the extent that what we are dealing with is a serious crime that borders on economic sabotage, the security agencies should be up and doing in apprehending the hoodlums and bringing them to justice.

We also call on the host communities to provide assistance by way of real time intelligence and information to the security agencies whenever they notice these criminalities. Criminals come from within speciďŹ c communities and when they realise that they would be exposed by their kinsmen they would certainly have a second thought. Community leaders should therefore consider it a patriotic duty to join in the ďŹ ght against the vandalism of electricity equipment.

However, what is worrying is that the security agencies have a long history of tough words that have been of no effect as the criminally-minded people within our society get more and more emboldened. It is therefore incumbent on all the critical stakeholders to come up with a solution that will work. But as we stated earlier, the communities have to be vigilant by keeping a close eye on equipment within their neighbourhood, even for the sake of their own enlightened self-interest. The bottomline remains that we must protect these vital assets of the nation from the grip of criminals. It is in everyone’s overall interest.

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.

OBASANJO’S‘LETTER BOMB’TO BUHARI

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was in a meeting when former President Olusegun Obasanjo’s “letter bomb� rent the “news-sphere�.

When I received the news alert, I hastened my business because I was seized by capricious anxiety to read the former president’s missive.

I must say, Obasanjo has taken the art of letterwriting to an enchanted stratosphere. And I admire his preferred means of intervening in Nigeria’s socio-political malaise.

In December 2013, Obasanjo wrote an 18-page letter to former President Goodluck Jonathan excoriating him for incompetence and nepotism. He also advised Jonathan against binging on the Bacardi of sycophants and self-serving praise singers.

As a refresher here is the advice of the former president to Jonathan. “Mr President, let me plead with you for a few things that will stand you in good stead for the rest of your life. Don’t always consider critics on national issues as enemies. Some of them may be as patriotic and nationalistic as you and I who had been in government. Some of them have as much passion for Nigeria as we have. May God save leaders from sycophants. They know what you want to hear and they feed you with it essentially for their own selfish interest. As far as you and Nigeria are

concerned, they are wreckers. Where were they when God used others to achieve God’s will in your life? They possess you now for their interest.�

Sadly, five years after, Obasanjo is hitting President Muhammadu Buhari on the noggin for exactly the same reason he flayed Jonathan. In fact, I consider his letter to Buhari a classical dressing-down, more gnawing than the bitter missive Jonathan had to chew.

In these words, Obasanjo convicted Buhari of the same offence as Jonathan: “The lice of poor performance in government – poverty, insecurity, poor economic management, nepotism, gross dereliction of duty, condoning misdeed – if not outright encouragement of it, lack of progress and hope for the future, lack of national cohesion and poor management of internal political dynamics and widening inequality – are very much with us today.�

And then the finisher: “But there are three other areas where President Buhari has come out more glaringly than most of us thought we knew about him. One is nepotic deployment bordering on clannishness and inability to bring discipline to bear on errant members of his nepotic court. This has grave consequences on performance of his government to the detriment of the nation. It would appear that national interest was being sacrificed on the altar of nepotic interest. What does one

make of a case like that of Maina: collusion, condonation, ineptitude, incompetence, dereliction of responsibility or kinship and friendship on the part of those who should have taken visible and deterrent disciplinary action? How many similar cases are buried, ignored or covered up and not yet in the glare of the media and the public?�

However, can Obasanjo’s open criticism of Buhari cause him electoral fatality? (Considering that he also advised the president to jettison his second-term bid).

Although, Obasanjo is considered a “kingmaker� in Nigeria, I doubt he wields as much influence now as he did before. I believe his importance is exaggerated. But does his opinion count? Yes, it does. His letter is just ammunition for many Nigerians who are disillusioned with the Buhari government. It only has the power to excite but not to influence. And as such, I do not see it doing any collateral damage to Buhari’s quest.

In conclusion, Obasanjo remains one of Nigeria’s most successful leaders. His courageous and selfless interventions must be commended. When other leaders turn a blind eye to the problems of the country and scurry into igloos for sake of self-preservation, the former president is ready to take up the gauntlet.

Fredrick Nwabufo is a journalist

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T H I S D AY THURSDAY JANUARY 25, 2018

T H I S D AY ˾ THURSDAY JANUARY 25, 2018

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T H I S D AY ˾ THURSDAY, JANUARY 25, 2018

POLITICS

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

PERSONALITY INTERVIEW

Amosun, Standing Tall at 60 The circumstances of his birth were a prelude to the fact that Ibikunle Amosun, the governor of Ogun State, was destined for the top, writes Rotimi Durojaiye

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estiny has gladly clothed him in gold raiment. Senator Ibikunle Oyelaja Oluwatoyin Amosun is a man to whom arguably, providence belongs.

Bulky of weight, giant of height, Senator Ibikunle Amosun, 60, wields such much an intimidating background that can arrest the man with a heart of stone. He is an enigma, a human dynamo.

He is a man propelled by his childhood background to strive to reach the top mountain. For him, life becomes a challenge, revenge against fate for being unkind to him.

On January 25, 1958, a young man was born under the Zodiac sign of Aquarius at the Totoro Health Centre, Abeokuta, Ogun State of Nigeria.

But he did not have the grace of coming to this world until he spent 35 months (three years and eight months) in his mother’s womb. A normal pregnancy and delivery takes nine months. Out of 18 children, he is his father’s fifth child. His father, a railway worker, and aristocrat of the Yoruba Egba clan, was a practical polygamist with six wives.

But Amosun had the chance of growing up fully as a child under parental tutelage of his parents, Alhaji Abdulazeez Oyedemi Alade Sanusi and Alhaja Rafatu Mojisola Alake Sanusi. He lost his father in 1997, while the mother died two years after.

His grandfather was Sanusi, while Sanusi’s father was Amosun.

The governor’s father decided that all his female children shall bear Sanusi while the male children would bear Amosun so that his forefather’s name will not be forgotten.

Because of the circumstances of his birth, his father called him Durorike (wait and enjoy kindness) It was also foretold by his late father that one of his children would be famous worldwide.

At the elementary school, too, he enjoyed the sympathy of teachers, mates and elder brother, Alhaji Abidoye Amosun (Alhaji Agba), who saw him as a child of destiny.

After school hours, the young Amosun would assist his mother, a petty trader, in hawking Ojojo (a pastry product from water yam), on the streets of Abeokuta.

His nickname, among his school mates then, was Toyin Olojojo, (Toyin that hawks Ojojo).

The rest, as they say, is history.

Amosun is funny, sweet, and amiable. He had managed to work his way out of poverty through hard work and symbolised the aspirations of many downtrodden Nigerians.

SIA, as he is fondly called by his political associates, stepped into the political space with the singular aim of giving back to humanity what he has been endowed with by God. He believes that the provision of amenities and social development cannot be left to government alone. He instituted a scholarship scheme in 1986, several years before venturing into politics, which he later institutionalized by setting up the Senator Ibikunle Amosun Scholarship Foundation (SIASF) on July 7, 2005. He has awarded scholarships to over 2,000 students of Ogun State origin, in various institutions of higher learning.

One thing about the Ogun State governor is that once he has conviction about something he stays the course, doggedly, uncompromisingly. Which is why some people consider him stubborn, some say inflexibly.

He is a very practical man, impatient with the tricky protocol of the civil service. Amosun likes results. He wants things done very well and very fast. Sometimes, the Ogun State helmsman can be short-tempered.

Amosun is a man whose word is his bond.

Once he says yes, he means yes and that settles the matter. He is a man of integrity whose words and conduct always agree. He is a highly gifted man, a visionary leader, an excellent administrator and a God-fearing man.

There is no doubt that Amosun has the drive,

Ibikunle Amosun

the initiative and the vision to leave Ogun State better than he met it. Very modest, articulate and principled, he is a silent performer who has warmed himself to the hearts of the people with his populist programmes as well as his well designed policy of developing an industrial and commercial economy that will provide wealth and abundant opportunities for his people.

You may like Amosun. You may not like him.

You may approve of his policies. You may not approve of them. But give it to him: he has guts, he has courage. The decisions he has taken in the last six and half years bear testimony to this. You cannot possibly ignore him.

Amosun is an ordinary man who has an extra-ordinary determination to serve, who has his faults, who makes mistakes.

Amosun had a herculean task; getting a mandate to govern a state that had suffered some setback over time, a state where standards had been thrown to the dogs, a place where the state’s account, even by the admission of his predecessors, was in the red.

Indeed, what Amosun inherited when he assumed office was enough to make a lazy

Amosun admits he is not perfect. No one is. Nor is he afraid of making mistakes. But once he sets his sight on course, there is no looking back

mind throw up his hands in frustration and surrender to fate. There was a sure lack of development, to which Amosun pledged to minister, but there was no money to either address these challenges or fulfil some basic necessities.

More than six years down the lane, he has silenced his critics. He has astonished sceptics.

The man has perhaps surprised himself. His political friends and foes seem to agree on one thing: Amosun has remarkably and visibly changed the status of Ogun State for the better.

Nobody for now really knows what his magic formula is. What is however well known, at least in the language of the local folks, is that things are simply getting better.

For most people in Ogun State, the momentum and tempo of development have surpassed their wildest imagination. Road network in Abeokuta, Ijebu Ode, Sagamu, Imeko-Afon, Aiyetoro and hinterlands have never been so good. The sheer size, spread and speed of economic activity is generating a compelling, not just for indigenes in Nigeria and abroad but also for new businesses.

He has initiated creative strategies to raise good money to fund gigantic projects and meet the needs of the state’s burgeoning population. He is beating a retreat from resting on the rickety base of oil economy.

Buoyed by his private sector background, he quickly set in motion necessary machinery to remove the bureaucratic bottlenecks associated with government officials and create an atmosphere conducive for investment.

Modesty comes easily to Amosun. A man whose guiding philosophy in life is patience, his approach to issues is unobtrusive. It has helped him to charm his way in and out of complex and complicated situations but it has also given others a wrong signal about the man and his character.

Amosun does not crave to be liked; rather, he craves to be understood as an honest, decent man with honest intentions and who cannot hurt

a fly. He is gifted with the ability to remember faces and names and he puts it to good effect.

But no man can win them all. Amosun just cannot. There are those who would clamour to have him as a neighbour and there are those who would wish he lived on the other side of the bridge.

Uneasy lies the head. Two things have always served Amosun well in life. The first is patience and the other is courage. He has brought both to bear on his administration of Ogun State. He set out not only to rule Ogun State but to change it in a positive, fundamental sense. He allows nothing to dissuade or distract him from that chosen course. He has found nothing sacred or untouchable. He has challenged the powerful and entrenched civil service and fundamentally restructured it, unbothered by criticisms and plaintive cries for maintaining the status quo.

Only a man with the courage of his unflawed conviction could take on so much, unfazed by its enormity. He is Ogun State man of the hour.

He was chosen at this time and in this age to make Ogun State different. The old order must give way.

Amosun admits he is not perfect. No one is. Nor is he afraid of making mistakes. But once he sets his sight on course, there is no looking back. He is not a man of thundering contradictions. Amosun is a compassionate and generous man. He is simple but tough.

He listens to people but relies more on his own instincts.

Amosun shows a genuine liking for people but he refuses to spare the rod when necessary.

He is a sympathetic man who makes a fine distinction between sympathy and sentiment. He understands Ogun State in a hurry, he shares that feeling but he is unwilling to sacrifice success for speed. Amosun’s desire is to take Ogun State to where it should be.

As Amosun clocks three score, I heartily congratulate him on this auspicious occasion.

I also wish him God’s continuous protection, good health, joy and peace in the years ahead.

T H I S D AY ˾ THURSDAY JANUARY 25, 2018

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THURSDAY, JANUARY 25, 2018 ˾ T H I S D AY

FEATURES

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

Lagos’ Megacity Projects Lagos State governor, Mr. Akinwunmi Ambode recently unveiled some newly completed projects designed to make life comfortable for residents and enhance the ease of doing business. Ugo Aliogo reports

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or the significant part of two days precisely on November 8 and 9 2017, which were a mixture of inspection of ongoing and unveiling of completed projects, also featured the inauguration of a 45-member Community Relations Committee in Badagry designed to forestall any incidence of environmental degradation, communal disputes and civil disturbances often associated with oil producing areas.

The first point of call on Wednesday was the premises of the Lagos State University Teaching Hospital (LASUTH), Ikeja, where Governor Akinwunmi Ambode inaugurated a new access road designed to permanently remove difficulties associated with accessing medical care faster during emergencies. The road, which is an alternative access road, connects the premises of LASUTH from Mobolaji Bank Anthony Way and Medical Road in Ikeja.

Ambode, who also inspected the progress of work on the LASUTH Maternity Hospital popularly known as Ayinke House which started in January 2016, ordered contractors handling the project to work day and night to deliver it within the next six months.

The new road, which is 400metres long, on the other hand, is designed with street light, drainage, median and beautification features.

Speaking while inaugurating the road, Ambode expressed delight at the completion of the project, saying it was designed to facilitate faster access to medical care, thereby saving lives. He said it was a thing of joy that after about three to four decades, another access road had been created to LASUTH, just as he directed management of the institution to ensure proper usage of the facility.

He said: "We are very delighted to be here. We believe strongly that the major cornerstone for the growth of the economy of Lagos actually lies in the hands of all of you here because if we don’t have a healthy state, we cannot have a productive economy and that was why we decided that we would pay greater attention to the health sector.

"We realised that just one entrance into this whole complex is too dangerous. It’s been like that for almost three or four decades and we are happy to be here opening another access road and thereby saving lives. That is the way it should be because patients can come in ambulance but held up almost thirty minutes and unable to disembark but this road will remove the tragedy that may occur through such and we are happy to commission this project.

"We are also happy that in another five to six months, we will be back here to make the Ayinke House functional and in addition to that, there are other two projects going on here and we have received assurances also that before May 2018, those ones will be completed also," he said.After all said and done, Ambode moved to Igando where he inspected the ongoing expansion and upgrade of Alimosho General Hospital. There, the governor ordered additional projects such as lounge for families of patients and canteen, as well as Ear, Nose and Throat (ENT) Department to be included in the project, while assuring that his desire is to ensure that the hospital is at par with LASUTH in terms of standard and facilities.

The governor also inspected the ongoing construction of theatre art in Badagry as well as the General Hospital in the town.

Speaking the following day while inaugurating the members of the oil exploration community relations committee, Ambode said as much as oil is a major source of revenue in the country, its exploration has created serious environmental challenges affecting health, social and economic activities, sustainable

Newly inaugurated alternative access road into the Lagos State Teaching Hospital (LASUTH)College of Medicine, Ikeja

development and ecological balance due to land degradation, air pollution, water pollution, deforestation and ecosystem degradation in the oil producing communities.

“These activities amongst others have led to agitations from communities and youth groups leading to disruption of exploration activities, pipeline vandalism and in extreme cases kidnapping and violence. This has made it difficult to conduct the business of oil production smoothly and ensure that the relationships between the oil companies and their host communities remain cordial at all times. This has also affected negotiations for compensations for land acquisition, damages and spills,” he said.

Ambode, therefore, said that Lagos, being the home of Nigeria’s most critical commercial activities and now an oil producing state with the discovery of oil in the Badagry area of the state; in the Aje Oil Field, OML 113 being operated by Yinka Folawiyo Petroleum Company, cannot afford to have any community unrests or disruption of peace, hence the need for the committee.

“It is imperative that our oil producing companies and their host communities

We are very delighted to be here. We believe strongly that the major cornerstone for the growth of the economy of Lagos actually lies in the hands of all of you here because if we don’t have a healthy state, we cannot have a productive economy and that was why we decided that we would pay greater attention to the health sector

Ambode...a promise keeper

enjoy a very warm and mutually beneficial relationship.

“Sequel to the aforesaid and the need to create a conducive exploration environment for the oil companies as well as having host communities devoid of rancour to prevent the re-occurrence of the Niger Delta issues in Lagos State, we have constituted a Committee for the Lagos State Oil Producing Areas Relations, cutting across the oil producing communities in Badagry,” the governor said.

While setting up the committee consisting of representatives of the state and local government, the host communities, women and youth, traditional rulers and other stakeholders, Ambode said the committee would among other things, interface between the host communities and the oil companies in Badagry, as well as coordinate a seamless implementation of Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) interventions planned for the Badagry oil producing areas by oil producing companies in Badagry.

He said the committee would also be saddled with the responsibility of coordinating community and development issues between host communities, government and oil producing companies operating in Badagry.

Besides, Ambode said the committee would also be expected to ensure peace and harmony between host communities and oil producing companies in Badagry.

“Our government is committed to creating a conducive environment for all to thrive especially in our budding oil industry. We will always work to protect our people and ensure their improved welfare while at the same time providing an investor-friendly environment.

“On our part, we will take proactive measures to prevent oil spillage and where it happens, quickly move to clean it up according to globally accepted standards. We will also ensure the safety and security of our communities and operators at all times.”

Alluding to the fact that the Badagry area was fast becoming a major hub for oil activities in Nigeria, the governor expressed optimism that the upcoming Badagry Deep Sea Port will provide logistic support for the oil and gas industry and further support the expansion of the economy of the axis thereby making it more viable and livable.

While thanking members of the committee for accepting to serve and contribute to the development of Lagos, the governor charged them to bring their wealth of knowledge and experience to ensure cooperation and collaboration between the communities and the oil companies operating in Badagry.

“This is a tough assignment because it is not easy to mediate and arbitrate. I look forward to receiving the reports of your activities and the progress being made by our communities and oil companies,” he said.

Speaking while inaugurating Olusola Thomas Court House in Badagry, a new six-room court complex named after a former Chief Judge of the state, Ambode said the development was another strong representation of his commitment to the rule of law and social justice, as well as a testimony of the determination to ensure that distance or geographical location is not a barrier to citizens' access to justice.

He recalled that prior to the construction of the facility, the entire town of Badagry including residents from the Benin Republic border all the way to Okokomaiko were served by only two courts one for Magistrate and the other for High Court, which was grossly inadequate, a development he said necessitated the need to embark on the project.

He added that the need to construct more court rooms in the axis was also made imperative by the fact that the Badagry axis was fast evolving as a major economic hub in

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FEATURES the state with vast potentials especially in tourism and commerce.

"The ongoing transformation of Badagry through infrastructural renewal and development are meant to open up this part for investors who will take advantage of the multi-million oil exploration activity and Deep Sea Port Project, among others.

"As the prospect and prosperity begin to manifest, Badagry will continue to experience influx of people who will engage in different types of economic activities as well as making it a place of residence. The resultant increase in social and economic activities will naturally lead to a corresponding increase in dispute which will require an efficient justice system to resolve as quickly as possible," he said.

Giving details of the features of the new complex, the governor said: "The court has been equipped with modern facilities for the comfort of not only judges and magistrates but also everyone including lawyers and members of the public.

"The court has been designed to ensure the welfare and security of personnel and members of the public who have course to be in the chambers of justice with the installation of CCTV surveillance cameras and monitors within the various courtrooms and the entire vicinity of this complex.

"There is a well-equipped Library, exhibit room and conference room facilities for the continued training and retraining of justice personnel assigned to this complex. This facility is also equipped with administrative offices that will service the six courtrooms and also accommodate the Office of Public Defender (OPD) which will continue to provide legal services and advice to the vulnerable."

Besides, Ambode assured that the bad state of roads leading to Badagry would soon be a thing of the past, adding: “We have already concluded the contract that takes the road from Eric More to Okokomaiko which is ongoing. So, we are just looking to close the next transaction that takes that 10-lane road from Okokomaiko to Seme Border.�

To another equally set of projects, Ambode proceeded to Ketu where he inaugurated multiple Layby and Slip Road in Agboyi Ketu Local Council Development Area of the state as part of measures to find a lasting solution to the perennial traffic gridlock along Ikorodu Road.

The governor also launched the Intelligence Transport System (ITS), the e-ticketing for commuters using the Bus Rapid Transit (BRT), the Ojota BRT Depot and the new complex for the Lagos Metropolitan Area Transport Authority known as LAMATA Place.

Speaking while inaugurating the slip road and multiple lay-by in Ketu, Ambode said the project was a significant milestone in drastically reducing the traffic along the corridor, adding that its completion would no doubt impact directly on travel time as the targeted reduction of traffic along the length of the Third Mainland Bridge to the entire stretch of the axis, moving towards Old Toll Gate and the Lagos-Ibadan Expressway would be accomplished. “This project is one of the major interventions in recent time by this administration. There is the multiple lay-by at Oworonshoki, the car wash Layby, slip road at Olopomeji, the several see through fence and the recently launched lay-by at Alapere Bus Stop. “Without doubt, this administration has dedicated considerable resources to the fulfillment of its initiatives of providing basic

This is a dream come true. For many years, we have had problem with movement of patients into the hospital. Sometimes, they are in the ambulance for 15 or 20 minutes before they can get in but this road has solved that problem

The Ketu Lay-ByBus Stop, inaugurated by Lagos State Governor, Mr. Akinwunmi Ambode

Ambode delivering his speech during the inauguration of the LAMATA Place and the Intelligent Transport System at Ojota, Lagos

elements of roads and transport infrastructure.

This obviously is in tandem with the fact that the importance of transportation to our economy cannot be over emphasised,� he said.

The governor said as part of the Bus Reform Initiative (BRI), additional new 800 buses would be provided in the next two months, while a total of 5,000 would be provided within 24 months.He said another multiple lay-by and slip road with car park and market with big stores would be constructed in Ikosi Isheri, while 27,500 sanitation workers employed in line with the Cleaner Lagos Initiative designed to make all parts of the state clean, would commence work in the next three weeks.

He, however, urged residents to cooperate with government, especially by not plying commercial motorcycle, popularly known as Okada in restricted routes, saying such was why the government was providing enough buses.

Speaking at Ojota while launching the e-ticketing, ITS, BRT Depot and LAMATA Place, Ambode said the move was another initiative geared to allow proper transport planning, saying that the technology had been designed to indicate where each bus is; how the driver is behaving; the arrival time of a bus and space inside, among others.

Giving details, the governor said: “This is a four-in-one package. When you look at the city generally, I get so unhappy when I see people standing in the bus stops not knowing when the next bus will arrive. The ITS is designed to solve such problem and our people can become more productive and then more comfortable in the way they commute across the city.

“We are starting this from the Ikorodu axis to CMS on the BRT lane and then we will scale it up as we get our new buses in few months away from now. In addition to that, the e-ticketing allows you to plan your little disposable income. So, if you are going to budget just N500 for transport in a week, the e-ticketing allows you rather than not being able to plan your transport movement. “The truth is this, there are more Lagosians using buses; there are more Lagosians walking on the road than those of us that have cars and so we need to take proper care of them and that is the step we are taking here and the reforms we are doing in the transport sector ultimately to create an integrated transport management system in the city combining water, road, rail, air and those walking.�

As part of the integrated transport management system, Ambode had on Sunday, November 5, 2017 inaugurated three new boats of the state government designed to boost water transportation, while the state government has also commenced the channelisation of four out of the 30 commercial ferry routes already identified on the state inland waterways, in addition to the ongoing rail projects. However, the projects did not go down without commendation from critical stakeholders who viewed them as demonstrable evidence of determination to make life easier and comfortable to the people by the Ambode administration.

Responding on behalf of the community, Oba of Ketu, HRM Isiaka Balogun commended Governor Ambode for the massive infrastructural projects carried out in the axis so far, saying they were unprecedented.

Also, in her remarks at the launch of new courtrooms in Badagry, Lagos State Chief Judge, Justice Opeyemi Oke commended Governor Ambode for his commitment to deliver prompt and efficient justice system.

While lauding the new court house, the CJ said it was also gratifying that the governor was in the process of building official quarters for judges and magistrates in Ikorodu, Epe and Badagry judicial divisions, as well as plans to establish commercial court house.

The Chief Medical Director of LASUTH, Professor Adewale Oke, at inauguration of the new access, commended Governor Ambode for his commitment to the health sector, saying several projects had been executed in the institution.

"This is a dream come true. For many years, we have had problem with movement of patients into the hospital. Sometimes, they are in the ambulance for 15 or 20 minutes before they can get in but this road has solved that problem.

"It is going to save our patients; it’s going to make access to the hospital very easy even for the workers. To add more to it, it is very aesthetically beautiful which complement the development that is going around,� Oke said.

Also speaking, Professor Babatunde Sholagbero, Provost of Lagos State University College of Medicine (LASUCOM), said the completion of the road was an eloquent evidence of promise made and promise kept.

He thanked Governor Ambode for facilitating the accreditation of Dentistry for the institution, thereby making Lagos State University (LASU) the only state university in Nigeria that offer bachelor of Dentistry degree.

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R-L; Vice President, of Nigeria, Prof. Yemi Osinbajo; former Viice President African Development Bank, Dr Bisi Ogunjobi and, President African Development Bank(ADB), Dr Akinwumi Adesina at the commissioning of the ADB Nigeria OďŹƒce in Abuja...recently

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L-R: Former Governor of Cross River State, Donald Duke; District Governor, Rotary International District 9125, Mr. Nnoka Mbanefo and Foundation/Chairman, Labour Party, Dr. Mike Omotosho during the 3rd Mike Omotosho annual lecture ĂŹMillennials as protagonists in Nation building held at YarĂ­Adua centre Abuja... recently

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Quick Takes NITDA Represents Nigeria at CES Ă‹ĂžĂ“Ă™Ă˜Ă‹Ă– Ă˜Ă?Ă™ĂœĂ—Ă‹ĂžĂ“Ă™Ă˜ Ă?Ă?Ă’Ă˜Ă™Ă–Ă™Ă‘ĂŁ Ă?Ă Ă?ÖÙÚ×Ă?Ă˜Ăž Ă‘Ă?Ă˜Ă?ĂŁ Ě™ ĚšËœ Ă‹Ă? ĂšĂ‹ĂœĂž Ă™Ă? Ă“ĂžĂ? Ă—Ă‹Ă˜ĂŽĂ‹ĂžĂ? Ă™Ă? Ă?Ă™Ă?ĂžĂ?ĂœĂ“Ă˜Ă‘ ÞÒĂ? ĂŽĂ?Ă Ă?ÖÙÚ×Ă?Ă˜Ăž Ă‹Ă˜ĂŽ Ă‘ĂœĂ™ĂĄĂžĂ’ Ă™Ă? ÞÒĂ? Ă˜Ă?Ă™ĂœĂ—Ă‹ĂžĂ“Ă™Ă˜ Ă‹Ă˜ĂŽ Ă?Ă?Ă’Ă˜Ă™Ă–Ă™Ă‘ĂŁ Ă“Ă˜ Ă“Ă‘Ă?ĂœĂ“Ă‹Ëœ ĂĄĂ‹Ă? Ă‹Ăž Í°ÍŽÍŻÍś Ă™Ă˜Ă?Ă&#x;Ă—Ă?Ăœ Ă–Ă?Ă?ĂžĂœĂ™Ă˜Ă“Ă?Ă? ÒÙå Ě™ ĚšËœ Ă’Ă?Ă–ĂŽ Ă“Ă˜ Ă‹Ă? Ă?Ă‘Ă‹Ă?Ëœ Ă?Ă Ă‹ĂŽĂ‹ Ëœ Ă?ĂœĂ™Ă— ͡ÞÒ ÞÙ ͯͰÞÒ Ă‹Ă˜Ă&#x;Ă‹ĂœĂŁ Ͱ͎ͯ͜˛ Ă’Ă? Ă“Ă‘Ă?ĂœĂ“Ă‹ ĂŽĂ?Ă–Ă?Ă‘Ă‹ĂžĂ“Ă™Ă˜ ÞÙ Í°ÍŽÍŻÍś ĂĄĂ‹Ă? Ă–Ă?ĂŽ ĂŒĂŁ Ă“ĂœĂ?Ă?ĂžĂ™Ăœ Ă?Ă˜Ă?ĂœĂ‹Ă–

Ëœ ĂœË› Ă?Ă‹ Ă–Ă“ ĂŒĂœĂ‹Ă’Ă“Ă— Ă‹Ă˜ĂžĂ‹Ă—Ă“Ë› Ă“Ă? ÞÒĂ? ĂĄĂ™ĂœĂ–ĂŽËŞĂ? ÑËÞÒĂ?ĂœĂ“Ă˜Ă‘ ÚÖËĂ?Ă? Ă?Ă™Ăœ Ă‹Ă–Ă– ÞÒÙĂ?Ă? ĂĄĂ’Ă™ ĂžĂ’ĂœĂ“Ă Ă? Ă™Ă˜ ÞÒĂ? ĂŒĂ&#x;Ă?Ă“Ă˜Ă?Ă?Ă? Ă™Ă? Ă?Ă™Ă˜Ă?Ă&#x;Ă—Ă?Ăœ ĂžĂ?Ă?Ă’Ă˜Ă™Ă–Ă™Ă‘Ă“Ă?Ă?Ë› Ăž Ă?Ă?ĂœĂ Ă?Ă? Ă‹Ă? ÞÒĂ? ĂšĂœĂ™Ă Ă“Ă˜Ă‘ Ă‘ĂœĂ™Ă&#x;Ă˜ĂŽ Ă?Ă™Ăœ Ă“Ă˜Ă˜Ă™Ă Ă‹ĂžĂ™ĂœĂ? Ă‹Ă˜ĂŽ ĂŒĂœĂ?Ă‹Ă•ĂžĂ’ĂœĂ™Ă&#x;Ă‘Ă’ ĂžĂ?Ă?Ă’Ă˜Ă™Ă–Ă™Ă‘Ă“Ă?Ă? Ě? ÞÒĂ? Ă‘Ă–Ă™ĂŒĂ‹Ă– Ă?ÞËÑĂ? ĂĄĂ’Ă?ĂœĂ? Ă˜Ă?âÞ̋ÑĂ?Ă˜Ă?ĂœĂ‹ĂžĂ“Ă™Ă˜ Ă“Ă˜Ă˜Ă™Ă Ă‹ĂžĂ“Ă™Ă˜Ă? Ă‹ĂœĂ? Ă“Ă˜ĂžĂœĂ™ĂŽĂ&#x;Ă?Ă?ĂŽ ÞÙ ÞÒĂ? Ă—Ă‹ĂœĂ•Ă?ÞÚÖËĂ?Ă?Ë› ĂĄĂ˜Ă?ĂŽ Ă‹Ă˜ĂŽ ĂšĂœĂ™ĂŽĂ&#x;Ă?Ă?ĂŽ ĂŒĂŁ ÞÒĂ? Ă™Ă˜Ă?Ă&#x;Ă—Ă?Ăœ Ă?Ă?Ă’Ă˜Ă™Ă–Ă™Ă‘ĂŁ Ă?Ă?Ă™Ă?Ă“Ă‹ĂžĂ“Ă™Ă˜ Ě™ ĚšËœ Ă“Ăž Ă‹ĘľĂœĂ‹Ă?ĂžĂ? ÞÒĂ? ĂĄĂ™ĂœĂ–ĂŽËŞĂ? ĂŒĂ&#x;Ă?Ă“Ă˜Ă?Ă?Ă? Ă–Ă?Ă‹ĂŽĂ?ĂœĂ? Ă‹Ă˜ĂŽ ĂšĂ“Ă™Ă˜Ă?Ă?ĂœĂ“Ă˜Ă‘ ĂžĂ’Ă“Ă˜Ă•Ă?ĂœĂ?Ë› ĂĄĂĄĂĄË›Ă?Ă?Ă?˛ÞĂ?Ă?Ă’ Ăž ÞÒĂ? Í°ÍŽÍŻÍśËœ Ă‹Ă˜ĂžĂ‹Ă—Ă“ Ă?ÞËÞĂ?ĂŽ ÞÒËÞ Ă“Ă‘Ă?ĂœĂ“Ă‹ ĂĄĂ™Ă&#x;Ă–ĂŽ Ă?Ă™Ă˜ĂžĂ“Ă˜Ă&#x;Ă? ÞÙ ÒÙÖÎ Ă‘ĂœĂ?Ă‹Ăž ÚÙÞĂ?Ă˜ĂžĂ“Ă‹Ă–Ă? Ă?Ă™Ăœ Ă‘Ă–Ă™ĂŒĂ‹Ă– Ă“Ă˜ĂŽĂ&#x;Ă?ĂžĂœĂŁ Ă‘Ă“Ă‹Ă˜ĂžĂ? Ă?Ă?Ă?Ă•Ă“Ă˜Ă‘ Ă?Ă™Ăœ Ă˜Ă?ĂĄ Ă—Ă‹ĂœĂ•Ă?ĂžĂ?Ë› Ă? Ă‹Ă–Ă?Ă™ Ă?Ă‹Ă“ĂŽ ĂĄĂ‹Ă? Ă‹Ăž Í°ÍŽÍŻÍś ÞÙ Ă˜Ă?ĂžĂĄĂ™ĂœĂ•Ëœ ĂŒĂœĂ‹Ă“Ă˜Ă?ĂžĂ™ĂœĂ—Ëœ Ă–Ă?Ă‹ĂœĂ˜ Ă?ĂœĂ™Ă— ÙÞÒĂ?Ăœ Ă˜Ă‹ĂžĂ“Ă™Ă˜Ă? Ă‹Ă˜ĂŽ ĂšĂœĂ™Ă?Ă?Ă?Ă?Ă“Ă™Ă˜Ă‹Ă–Ă? åÓÞÒ ÞÒĂ? Ă‹Ă“Ă— Ă™Ă? Ă?Ă™Ă?ĂžĂ?ĂœĂ“Ă˜Ă‘ ÞÒĂ? Ă‘ĂœĂ™ĂĄĂžĂ’ Ă™Ă? Ă˜Ă?Ă™ĂœĂ—Ă‹ĂžĂ“Ă™Ă˜ Ă?Ă?Ă’Ă˜Ă™Ă–Ă™Ă‘ĂŁ Ě™ Ěš Ă“Ă˜ Ă“Ă‘Ă?ĂœĂ“Ă‹Ë›

Jumia Launches Travel Awards

RECOGNISING ICT ICONS

L-R: Executive Secretary, Association of Telecoms Companies of Nigeria (ATCON), Mr. Ajibola Olude; President, Mr. Olusola Teniola and First Vice President, Dr. Anthony Nwosu, during a press brieďŹ ng on the planned launch of a book that will feature 100 ICT icons, held in Lagos...recently

FG Urged to Formulate Policies that Will Encourage Local Tech Devt Stories by Emma Okonji The Managing Director, BCX Nigeria, Mr. Ayo Adegboye has stressed the need for the federal government to formulate polices that would protect indigenous technology companies. He also called for policies that would encourage the upscaling of local technology solutions to commercially viable solutions.

Adegboye who made the call in an interview with THISDAY in Lagos, said the call became necessary, following the dwindling business environment that is currently impeding the growth of technology companies across the country.

According to him, “The

ICT Nigerian government has done tremendously well in managing the Nigerian economy in terms of policy formulation that drives economies of scale, but has not done much in the area of protecting indigenous technology companies that have bright future but are struggling to survive under a harsh business environment.�

He said: “For instance, the policy that allows the issuance of visa to foreign nationals on arrival is a welcome development that will boost investors’ confidence in doing business in Nigeria. But government needs to do more in the area of policy

formulation to encourage local technology development.� “Government must realise the need to support home grown technology, since the small and medium enterprises (SMEs) and FinTech that are driving home grown technologies, need government support that will protect their technology solutions and also assist in the commercial marketing of such locally developed technology applications that are currently shaping the way businesses are carried out in the country.�

We as technology experts, we will want to see more of government policies, tilting towards the encouragement and protection of knowledge-based

development in the Information and Communications Technology (ICT) sector, he stressed.

Adegboye said that the implication of government not protecting local businesses through formulated policies is that foreigners would continue to occupy and take over businesses that Nigerians should have been controlling and managing. “I want to see policies that will support home grown technologies and also support the individuals that are behind the technologies.

The idea of foreigners occupying some critical positions of the technology sector in the Continued on page 24

‘Commitment to Artificial Intelligence Will Boost Revenue, Employment by 2022’ A recent report conducted by Accenture, a global professional services company, has exposed the business risks that organisations will likely face, should their chief executives fail to adopt the Artificial Intelligence (AI) driven growth and also fail to help employees work with intelligent technologies.

The report, which was released early this week, however painted a picture, which shows that with stronger commitment to AI technology, organisations are likely going to have revenue increase by 38 per cent and a boost in employment by 10 per cent by 2022.

The report predicted that major growth opportunities

IT would elude organisations globally, unless their chief executives take immediate steps to pivot their workforces and equip their people to work with intelligent technologies The Accenture strategy report, titled ‘Reworking the Revolution: Are You Ready to Compete As Intelligent Technology Meets Human Ingenuity to Create the Future Workforce?’, estimates that if businesses invest in AI and human-machine collaboration at the same rate as top performing companies, they could boost revenues by 38 per cent by 2022 and raise employment levels

by 10 per cent.

Collectively, this would lift profits by $4.8trillion globally over the same period. For the average S&P500 company, this equates to $7.5 billion of revenues and a $880 million lift to profitability.

Both leaders and workers are optimistic about the potential of AI on business results and on work experiences, according to the study.

About 72 per cent of the 1,200 senior executives surveyed, said intelligent technology would be critical to their organisation’s market differentiation and 61 per cent thinks the share of roles requiring collaboration with AI will rise in the next

three years. More than two thirds, which is about 69 per cent of the 14,000 workers surveyed said it is important to develop skills to work with intelligent machines.

Yet, a disconnect between workers’ embrace of AI and their employers’ efforts to prepare workers, puts potential growth at risk.

While a majority 54 per cent of business leaders said that human-machine collaboration was important to their strategic priorities, only three per cent said their organisation plans to significantly increase its investment in reskilling their Continued on page 24

Ă&#x;Ă—Ă“Ă‹ ĂœĂ‹Ă Ă?Ă–Ëœ Ă‹ Ă–Ă?Ă‹ĂŽĂ“Ă˜Ă‘ Ă™Ă˜Ă–Ă“Ă˜Ă? ĂžĂœĂ‹Ă Ă?Ă– Ă‹Ă‘Ă?Ă˜Ă?ĂŁ Ă“Ă˜ Ă?ĂœĂ“Ă?Ă‹Ëœ ĂĄĂ“Ă–Ă– ÒÙÖÎ ÞÒĂ? Ă?Ă?Ă?Ă™Ă˜ĂŽ Ă?ĂŽĂ“ĂžĂ“Ă™Ă˜ Ă™Ă? ÞÒĂ? Ă?ĂœĂ“Ă?Ă‹ ĂœĂ‹Ă Ă?Ă– ĂĄĂ‹ĂœĂŽĂ? ÞÙÎËã˛ Ă™Ăœ ÞÒÓĂ? Ă?ĂŽĂ“ĂžĂ“Ă™Ă˜Ëœ ÞÒĂ? Ă?Ă?ĂœĂ?Ă—Ă™Ă˜ĂŁ ĂĄĂ“Ă–Ă– ĂŒĂ? Ă’Ă?Ă–ĂŽ Ă?Ă“Ă—Ă&#x;Ă–ĂžĂ‹Ă˜Ă?Ă™Ă&#x;Ă?Ă–ĂŁ Ă“Ă˜ Ă?Ă“Ă‘Ă’Ăž Ă?Ă™Ă&#x;Ă˜ĂžĂœĂ“Ă?Ă?Ë? Ă“Ă‘Ă?ĂœĂ“Ă‹Ëœ Ă–Ă‘Ă?ĂœĂ“Ă‹Ëœ Ă‹Ă—Ă?ĂœĂ™Ă™Ă˜Ëœ Ă Ă™ĂœĂŁ ÙËĂ?ĂžËœ Ă’Ă‹Ă˜Ă‹Ëœ Ă‘Ă‹Ă˜ĂŽĂ‹Ëœ Ă?Ă˜Ă?Ă‘Ă‹Ă– Ă‹Ă˜ĂŽ Ă‹Ă˜Ă¤Ă‹Ă˜Ă“Ă‹Ë› Ă’Ă? Ă‹ĂĄĂ‹ĂœĂŽĂ? Ă‹Ă“Ă— Ă‹Ăž ĂšĂœĂ™Ă—Ă™ĂžĂ“Ă˜Ă‘ Ă“Ă‘Ă?ĂœĂ“Ă‹ËŞĂ? ÞÙĂ&#x;ĂœĂ“Ă?Ă— Ă?Ă?Ă?ĂžĂ™ĂœËœ Ă‹Ă˜ĂŽ ĂœĂ?Ă?ĂšĂ™Ă˜ĂŽĂ? ÞÙ ÞÒĂ? Ă˜Ă?Ă?ĂŽ Ă™Ă? Ă?Ă˜Ă?Ă™Ă&#x;ĂœĂ‹Ă‘Ă“Ă˜Ă‘ ÒÙÞĂ?Ă–Ă“Ă?ĂœĂ? ÞÙ Ă“Ă—ĂšĂœĂ™Ă Ă? ÞÒĂ? Ă›Ă&#x;ËÖÓÞã Ă™Ă? ÞÒĂ?Ă“Ăœ Ă?Ă?ĂœĂ Ă“Ă?Ă?Ă? Ă?Ă™Ăœ Ă?Ă&#x;ĂœĂžĂ’Ă?Ăœ Ă‹ĂŽĂ Ă‹Ă˜Ă?Ă?Ă—Ă?Ă˜Ăž Ă™Ă? ÞÒĂ?Ă“Ăœ ĂœĂ?Ă?ĂšĂ?Ă?ÞÓà Ă? ĂŽĂ?Ă?ĂžĂ“Ă˜Ă‹ĂžĂ“Ă™Ă˜Ă?Ë› Ă’Ă?ĂœĂ? Ă‹ĂœĂ? Ă?Ă?Ă Ă?Ă˜ Ă?Ă‹ĂžĂ?Ă‘Ă™ĂœĂ“Ă?Ă? ÞÙ ĂŒĂ? Ă‹ĂĄĂ‹ĂœĂŽĂ?ĂŽ Ă“Ă˜Ă?Ă–Ă&#x;ĂŽĂ“Ă˜Ă‘Ë? Ă&#x;Ă?ÞÙ×Ă?ĂœËŞĂ? Ă‹Ă Ă™ĂœĂ“ĂžĂ? ÙÞĂ?Ă– Í°ÍŽÍŻÍľËœ Ă&#x;Ă?ÞÙ×Ă?ĂœËŞĂ? Ă‹Ă Ă™ĂœĂ“ĂžĂ? Ă“ĂœĂ–Ă“Ă˜Ă? Ă™Ă—ĂšĂ‹Ă˜ĂŁ Í°ÍŽÍŻÍľËœ Ă?Ă?Ăž Ă?Ă?ĂžĂ“Ă˜Ă‹ĂžĂ“Ă™Ă˜ Ă?ĂŒĂ?Ă“ĂžĂ? Í°ÍŽÍŻÍľËœ Ă&#x;Ă—Ă“Ă‹ ĂœĂ‹Ă Ă?Ă–ËŞĂ? Ă™Ă™Ă•Ă“Ă˜Ă‘ ĂĄĂ‹ĂœĂŽ Í°ÍŽÍŻÍľËœ ĂœĂ‹Ă Ă?Ă–Ă?ĂœËŞĂ? ÒÙÓĂ?Ă? ÙÞĂ?Ă– Í°ÍŽÍŻÍľËœ Ă?Ă?Ăž Ă?Ă“Ă?Ă&#x;ĂœĂ? ÙÞĂ?Ă– Ă“Ă˜ Ă“Ă‘Ă?ĂœĂ“Ă‹ Í°ÍŽÍŻÍľËœ Ă‹Ă˜ĂŽ Ă?Ă?Ăž Ă&#x;Ă?Ă“Ă˜Ă?Ă?Ă? ÙÞĂ?Ă– Ă“Ă˜ Ă“Ă‘Ă?ĂœĂ“Ă‹ Ͱ͎ͯ;˛ Ă”Ă&#x;ĂœĂŁ ĂšĂ‹Ă˜Ă?Ă–Ëœ Ă—Ă‹ĂŽĂ? Ă&#x;Ăš Ă™Ă? Ă’Ă“Ă‘Ă’Ě‹Ă–Ă?Ă Ă?Ă– ÞÙĂ&#x;ĂœĂ“Ă?Ă— ĂšĂœĂ™Ă?Ă?Ă?Ă?Ă“Ă™Ă˜Ă‹Ă–Ă? Ă“Ă˜ ÞÒĂ? Ă?Ă™Ă&#x;Ă˜ĂžĂœĂŁËœ Ă’Ă‹Ă Ă? ĂŒĂ?Ă?Ă˜ ĂšĂ&#x;Ăž ÞÙÑĂ?ÞÒĂ?Ăœ ÞÙ Ă”Ă&#x;ĂŽĂ‘Ă? ÞÒĂ? Ă˜Ă™Ă—Ă“Ă˜Ă‹ĂžĂ?ĂŽ ÒÙÞĂ?Ă–Ă? Ă‹Ă˜ĂŽ Ă&#x;ÖÞÓ×ËÞĂ?Ă–ĂŁ ĂŽĂ?Ă?Ă“ĂŽĂ? Ă™Ă˜ ÞÒĂ? ĂĄĂ“Ă˜Ă˜Ă?ĂœĂ?Ë› Ă’Ă? Ă”Ă&#x;ĂœĂŁËŞĂ? ĂŽĂ?Ă?Ă“Ă?Ă“Ă™Ă˜ ĂĄĂ“Ă–Ă– Ă?Ă™Ă˜ĂžĂœĂ“ĂŒĂ&#x;ĂžĂ? ͳ͎ ĂšĂ?Ăœ Ă?Ă?Ă˜Ăž Ă™Ă? ÞÒĂ? Ă™Ă&#x;ĂžĂ?Ù×Ă?Ëœ ĂĄĂ’Ă“Ă–Ă? ÞÒĂ? ÙÞÒĂ?Ăœ ͳ͎ ĂšĂ?Ăœ Ă?Ă?Ă˜Ăž ĂĄĂ“Ă–Ă– ĂŒĂ? Ă?ĂœĂ™Ă— ÞÒĂ? ĂšĂ&#x;ĂŒĂ–Ă“Ă? ĂžĂ’ĂœĂ™Ă&#x;Ă‘Ă’ Ă‹ Ă Ă™ĂžĂ“Ă˜Ă‘ ĂšĂœĂ™Ă?Ă?Ă?Ă?Ë› Ă™Ă? Ă&#x;Ă—Ă“Ă‹ ĂœĂ‹Ă Ă?Ă–Ëœ Ă™Ă? Ă‹Ă–ĂžĂ?ĂœËœ Ă?Ă‹Ă“ĂŽË? ËŤ ĂŁ Ă™ĂœĂ‘Ă‹Ă˜Ă“Ă?Ă“Ă˜Ă‘ ÞÒĂ?Ă?Ă? Ă?ĂœĂ“Ă?Ă‹Ă˜ ĂœĂ‹Ă Ă?Ă– ĂĄĂ‹ĂœĂŽĂ?Ëœ Ă™Ă&#x;Ăœ Ă—Ă“Ă?Ă?Ă“Ă™Ă˜ Ă“Ă? Ă˜Ă™Ăž Ă™Ă˜Ă–ĂŁ ÞÙ ĂœĂ?Ă?Ă™Ă‘Ă˜Ă“Ă¤Ă? Ă‹Ă˜ĂŽ ĂœĂ?ĂĄĂ‹ĂœĂŽ ÞÒĂ? Ă—Ă?ĂœĂ“Ăž Ă™Ă? Ă–Ă™Ă?Ă‹Ă– ÞÙĂ&#x;ĂœĂ“Ă?Ă— Ă?ÞËÕĂ?ÒÙÖÎĂ?ĂœĂ?Ëœ ĂŒĂ&#x;Ăž Ă‹Ă–Ă?Ă™ ÞÙ ĂšĂœĂ™Ă Ă“ĂŽĂ? Ă‹ Ă?ĂœĂ?ĂŽĂ“ĂŒĂ–Ă? ĂŒĂ?Ă˜Ă?Ă’Ă—Ă‹ĂœĂ• Ă?Ă™Ăœ ÞÒĂ? Ă?ĂœĂ“Ă?Ă‹Ă˜ ÞÙĂ&#x;ĂœĂ“Ă?Ă— Ă“Ă˜ĂŽĂ&#x;Ă?ĂžĂœĂŁË›ËŹ Ă’Ă? ĂĄĂ“Ă˜Ă˜Ă?ĂœĂ? Ă™Ă? ÞÒĂ? Ă?ĂœĂ“Ă?Ă‹Ă˜ ĂœĂ‹Ă Ă?Ă– ĂĄĂ‹ĂœĂŽĂ? Í°ÍŽÍŻÍś ĂĄĂ“Ă–Ă– ĂŒĂ? Ă’Ă™Ă˜Ă™ĂœĂ?ĂŽ ĂŽĂ&#x;ĂœĂ“Ă˜Ă‘ Ă‹ Ă?Ă™Ă?ÕÞËÓÖ Ă’Ă?Ă–ĂŽ Ă™Ă˜ Ă‹Ă˜Ă&#x;Ă‹ĂœĂŁ Í°ÍłËœ Í°ÍŽÍŻÍś Ă?Ă“Ă—Ă&#x;Ă–ĂžĂ‹Ă˜Ă?Ă™Ă&#x;Ă?Ă–ĂŁ Ă“Ă˜ Ă‹Ă‘Ă™Ă?Ëœ Ă–Ă‘Ă“Ă?ĂœĂ?Ëœ Ă‹Ă•Ă‹ĂœËœ ĂŒĂ“ĂŽĂ”Ă‹Ă˜Ëœ Ă?Ă?ĂœĂ‹Ëœ Ă™Ă&#x;Ă‹Ă–Ă‹Ëœ Ă‹Ăœ Ă? Ă‹Ă–Ă‹Ă‹Ă—Ëœ Ă‹Ă˜ĂŽ Ë×ÚËÖ˲

GOtv Rewards New Customers ÓÑÓÞËÖ ÚËã ĂžĂ?Ă–Ă?Ă Ă“Ă?Ă“Ă™Ă˜ Ă?Ă?ĂœĂ Ă“Ă?Ă? ĂšĂœĂ™Ă Ă“ĂŽĂ?ĂœËœ ĂžĂ Ëœ Ă’Ă‹Ă? Ă?Ă‹Ă“ĂŽ Ă“Ăž ĂĄĂ“Ă–Ă– ÙʼĂ?Ăœ Ă‹Ă–Ă– Ă˜Ă?ĂĄ Ă?Ă&#x;Ă?ÞÙ×Ă?ĂœĂ? Ă™Ă˜Ă? Ă?ĂœĂ?Ă? Ă—Ă™Ă˜ĂžĂ’ Ă™Ă˜ Ă“ĂžĂ? Ă–Ă‹ĂžĂ?Ă?Ăž Ă?Ă‹Ă—Ă“Ă–ĂŁ Ă?Ă˜ĂžĂ?ĂœĂžĂ‹Ă“Ă˜Ă—Ă?Ă˜Ăž ÚËĂ?Ă•Ă‹Ă‘Ă?Ëœ Þà ˛ ĂžĂ‹ĂœĂžĂ“Ă˜Ă‘ Ă‹Ă˜Ă&#x;Ă‹ĂœĂŁ ÍŻÍ´Ëœ Ă˜Ă?ĂĄ Ă?Ă&#x;Ă?ÞÙ×Ă?ĂœĂ? ĂĄĂ’Ă™ ĂšĂ&#x;ĂœĂ?Ă’Ă‹Ă?Ă? ÞÒĂ? Ă?Ă&#x;Ă–Ă– Þà ÕÓÞ Ă‹Ăž ÍłËœÍˇÍŽÍŽ ĂĄĂ“Ă–Ă– Ă‹Ă&#x;ÞÙ×ËÞÓĂ?Ă‹Ă–Ă–ĂŁ ĂŒĂ? Ă&#x;ĂšĂ‘ĂœĂ‹ĂŽĂ?ĂŽ ÞÙ Þà ˛ Ă’Ă? Ă‹ĂŁ Ă Ă?Ă™Ă—ĂšĂ‹Ă˜ĂŁ Ă’Ă‹Ă? Ă‹Ă–Ă?Ă™ Ă?ÞËÞĂ?ĂŽ ÞÒËÞ Ă?Ă&#x;Ă?ÞÙ×Ă?ĂœĂ? Ă?Ă‹Ă˜ Ă?Ă‹ĂœĂ˜ Ă‹Ă˜ Ă?Ă˘ĂžĂœĂ‹ Ă—Ă™Ă˜ĂžĂ’ ĂĄĂ’Ă?Ă˜ ÞÒĂ?ĂŁ ÚËã ÍąËœÍśÍŽÍŽ Ă?Ă™Ăœ Ă™Ă˜Ă? Ă—Ă™ĂœĂ? Ă—Ă™Ă˜ĂžĂ’ Ă™Ă˜ ÞÒĂ? ÚÖËÞĂ?Ă™ĂœĂ—Ëœ ĂŒĂ&#x;Ăž Ă™Ă˜Ă–ĂŁ Ă“Ă? ÞÒĂ?ĂŁ ÚËã ĂĄĂ“ĂžĂ’Ă“Ă˜ Ă?Ă?Ă Ă?Ă˜ ĂŽĂ‹ĂŁĂ? Ă™Ă? ÞÒĂ? Ă™ĂœĂ“Ă‘Ă“Ă˜Ă‹Ă– ĂšĂ&#x;ĂœĂ?Ă’Ă‹Ă?Ă?Ë› Ă’Ă“Ă? ˍÑÙÖÎĂ?Ă˜ ĂĄĂ“Ă˜ĂŽĂ™ĂĄËŹ Ă™Ă? Ă?Ă?Ă Ă?Ă˜ ĂŽĂ‹ĂŁĂ? ĂĄĂ“Ă–Ă– Ă?Ă˜Ă‹ĂŒĂ–Ă? Ă˜Ă?ĂĄ Ă?Ă&#x;Ă?ÞÙ×Ă?ĂœĂ? Ă?âÚĂ?ĂœĂ“Ă?Ă˜Ă?Ă? ĂšĂœĂ?Ă—Ă“Ă&#x;Ă— Ă?Ă˜ĂžĂ?ĂœĂžĂ‹Ă“Ă˜Ă—Ă?Ă˜Ăž Ă™Ă˜ ÞÒĂ? ÚÖËÞĂ?Ă™ĂœĂ—Ëœ Ă˜Ă™Ă˜Ě‹Ă?ÞÙÚ Ă?Ă™Ăœ ĂžĂ’ĂœĂ?Ă? Ă—Ă™Ă˜ĂžĂ’Ă?Ë› ËŤ Ă? ĂŽĂ?Ă?Ă“ĂŽĂ?ĂŽ ÞÙ Ă•Ă“Ă?Õ̋Ùʼ ÞÒĂ? Ă?ĂĄ Ă?Ă‹Ăœ åÓÞÒ Ă‹Ă˜ Ă?âĂ?Ă“ĂžĂ“Ă˜Ă‘ ÙʼĂ?Ăœ Ă™Ă˜ ĂžĂ ËœËŹ Ă?Ă‹Ă“ĂŽ Ă‹ĂœĂžĂ“Ă˜ Ă‹ĂŒĂ&#x;ĂžĂ’Ă™Ëœ ÞÒĂ? Ă?Ă˜Ă?ĂœĂ‹Ă– Ă‹Ă˜Ă‹Ă‘Ă?ĂœËœ Ă‹Ă–Ă?Ă? Ă‹Ă˜ĂŽ Ă‹ĂœĂ•Ă?ĂžĂ“Ă˜Ă‘Ëœ Ă&#x;ÖÞÓ ÒÙÓĂ?Ă? Ă“Ă‘Ă?ĂœĂ“Ă‹Ë› Ă‹ĂŒĂ&#x;ÞÒÙ Ă‹ĂŽĂŽĂ?ĂŽË? ËŤ Ă? ĂŒĂ?Ă–Ă“Ă?Ă Ă? ÞÒËÞ ÞÙÚ Ă?Ă™Ă˜ĂžĂ?Ă˜Ăž Ă?Ă’Ă™Ă&#x;Ă–ĂŽ ĂŒĂ? ĂĄĂ“ĂžĂ’Ă“Ă˜ ĂœĂ?Ă‹Ă?Ă’ Ă™Ă? ÞÒĂ? Ă‹Ă Ă?ĂœĂ‹Ă‘Ă? Ă“Ă‘Ă?ĂœĂ“Ă‹Ă˜Ë› Ă&#x;Ăœ Þà Ă?Ù×Ă?Ă? Ă?Ă&#x;Ă–Ă–ĂŁ ÖÙËÎĂ?ĂŽ åÓÞÒ Ă™Ă˜Ă? Ă™Ă? ÞÒĂ? ĂŒĂ?Ă?Ăž Ă?Ă™Ă™ĂžĂŒĂ‹Ă–Ă– Ă–Ă?Ă‹Ă‘Ă&#x;Ă?Ă?Ëž ÞÒĂ? ĂšĂ‹Ă˜Ă“Ă?Ă’ Ă‹ Ă“Ă‘Ă‹ Ă‹Ă˜ĂŽ ÙÞÒĂ?Ăœ ĂšĂœĂ?Ă—Ă“Ă&#x;Ă— Ă?Ă™Ă˜ĂžĂ?Ă˜Ăž ÞÒËÞ Ă?Ă˜Ă?Ă&#x;ĂœĂ? Ă™Ă&#x;Ăœ Ă?Ă&#x;Ă?ÞÙ×Ă?ĂœĂ? Ă?âÚĂ?ĂœĂ“Ă?Ă˜Ă?Ă? ĂĄĂ™ĂœĂ–ĂŽ Ă?Ă–Ă‹Ă?Ă? ĂžĂ?Ă–Ă?Ă Ă“Ă?Ă“Ă™Ă˜ Ă?âÚĂ?ĂœĂ“Ă?Ă˜Ă?Ă?˛ˏ

“One thing that is common among countries that are driving ICT growth, is broadband connectivity that is propelling eCommerce�

CEO, Spectranet 4GLTE, Mr. Ajay Awasthi

24

T H I S D AY Ëž Ëœ Í°ÍłËœ Í°ÍŽÍŻÍś

FG URGED TO FORMULATE POLICIES THAT WILL ENCOURAGE LOCAL TECH DEVT nation’s economy should be discouraged because it leads to capital flight of the nation’s resources, and this can be achieved through formulation of policies that will protect and encourage local technology development in the country.

He further added: “Expatriates are paid in foreign currencies and they will not invest in the country. But if Nigerians are made to occupy those critical positions, of which we have qualified and tested Nigerians who can occupy the positions, then it will lead to empowering Nigerians and their families and the money will remain in Nigeria and circulate within the country.

It will also boost capital development.� According to him, most multi-nationals do not like doing business with up-coming startups, and the few that try doing so, come up with stringent conditions that will be difficult to meet by the startups. So that situation must change through better government policies.

Adegboye explained that in most foreign countries, Nigerians are not allowed to occupy expatriate positions because their laws bar them from holding such positions.

So I begin to wonder why we cannot have policies in place that will protect Nigerians in Nigeria.

‘COMMITMENT TO ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE WILL BOOST REVENUE, EMPLOYMENT BY 2022’ workers in the next three years.

Analysing the report, the Group Chief Executive, Accenture Strategy, Mark Knickrehm, said: “To achieve higher rates of growth in the age of AI, companies need to invest more in equipping their people to work with machines in new ways.� “Increasingly, businesses will be judged on their commitment to what we call Applied Intelligence - the ability to rapidly implement intelligent technology and human ingenuity across all parts of their core business to secure this growth,� Knickrehm said.

Leather Industry is Nigeria’s Next Gold Mine, Says Minister Mohammed Aminu in Sokoto The Minister of Science and Technology, Dr. Ogbonnaya Onu, Tuesday said the leather Industry is the nation’s next gold mine and holds the key to industrial growth, jobs and wealth creation.

Onu made the remark at the validation workshop on National Leather and Leather Products Policy held at the Giginya Hotel, Sokoto.

He described the leather Industry as strategic in view of its importance in the economic diversification of the country.

The Minister, who was represented by the Director General, National Centre for Technology Management, Prof. Okechukwu Okwuoma, noted that the leather Industry generates N24.5 billion annually and has the capacity to create about 700,000 direct and indirect jobs.

Onu stated that President Muhammadu Buhari was working diligently to improve the socio-economic wellbeing of the people by vigorously promoting increase in local content, diversification of the nation’s economy and transformation from a resource-based to knowledge-based economy.

According to him, it is in line with this, that the Federal Ministry of Science and Technology in its drive to diversify the national economy and conserve foreign exchange through import substitution, came up with various projects on the application of indigenous and innovative technologies for value addition. “In a developing economy such as the country is facing, there is no doubt that the involvement of organised scientific and technological

approaches would provide the much needed palliatives. “The leather value-chain has proven, in recent times to be a veritable sector to the national economy because of its high employment and wealth generation potentials, “he said.

He said the validation workshop was aimed at bringing stakeholders and experts to deliberate on Leather Products Policy with the aim of validating the policy document.

Onu pointed out that there was no stand-alone policy for leather and leather products activities in Nigeria as obtain-

able in other countries, adding that the absence of a sectorspecific policy contributed to the slow growth of the industry. “The country is waiting for a national policy on Leather and Leather products that is expected to embrace the Triple Helix Model of innovation, involving an inter-mix of university, industry and government, a panacea for rapid industrial transformation,� he added.

He expressed optimism that participants would use the platform to proffer solutions to various constraints affecting the leather industry and make the

policy document more robust and accelerate the development of the country.

In a remark, the Director General, Nigeria Institute of Leather and Science Technology, Dr. Eucharia Ngozi Oparah, said the aim of the workshop was to look at the draft policy and provide necessary feedbacks as well as offer constructive comments that could be incorporated in the policy.

The Director General, who is also the Chairman, National Steering Committee on Leather and Leather Products Policy, said the leather industry had witnessed a decline in its performance due to the absence

of a sector-specific policy that contributed to the underdevelopment of the industry. “It’s therefore timely to draft the current Leather and Leather Products Policy which we are all here to validate in order to take into account these challenges as well as tap into the existing opportunities in the Sector,�she stressed.

In a remark, Sokoto State Governor, Aminu Tambuwal, who spoke through the state Commissioner of Commerce, Aminu Bello, said his administration would continue to support artisans in the leather industry in the state to enhance their products.

LAUDABLE ACHIEVEMENT

R-L: Executive Director Operations, Asset Management Corporation of Nigeria (AMCON), Mr. Aminu Ismail; Commissioner/CEO, Accident Investigation Bureau, Mr. Akin Olateru; Aero Chief Executive OďŹƒcer, Capt. Ado Sanusi and a former Director-General of the Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA), Dr. Harold Demuren at the formal roll out ceremony of the ďŹ rst successfully conducted Boeing 737-500 C-check at Aero MRO facility in Lagos ... recently

‘Nigeria Needs over 120,000km Fibre Network to Boost Broadband’ Emma Okonji The Executive Vice Chairman, Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC), Prof.

Umar Garba Danbatta has said Nigeria needs over 120,000 kilometres of metropolitan fibre networks interconnected across the country, for it to achieve its goal of pervasive broadband penetration. Danbatta who made the disclosure recently in Abuja, while receiving a delegation from the Nigeria Industrial Policy and Compe-

tiveness Advisory Council, led

by Ms. Edirin Akemu, said that only 38,000 kilometres have been covered so far, a far cry from the expected 120,000 kilometres that will give full broadband coverage to the nooks and crannies of the country.

Danbatta therefore called on the federal government to ensure that all the 36 states governments of the federation adhere to the resolution of National Economic Council on the Right of Way (RoW)

charges, which stipulate N145 per metre for laying fibre network in every part of the country. “The Right of Way issue is something that refuses to go away despite the existence of a document guiding what should be charged. Currently nobody is complying with the provision of that document,�

Danbatta said, while expressing his displeasure over the slow pace of broadband penetration in the country.

The National Broadband

Policy (2013-2018) is targeting 30 per cent broadband penetration in the country by 2018, but it is not very clear whether the target would be met, given the current level of broadband penetration in the country, which was put at a paltry 26 per cent as at December 2017. “We cannot compel the state governments to charge N145 per meter for fibre. The federal government can, however, meet with the governors and extract a commitment from them, to

ensure that NCC’s provision is strictly adhered to,� he further noted. The NCC boss also called for more Information and Communications Technology (ICT) capacity building in the country in order to fully take advantage of the digital transformation that is taking place in the world.

He argued that while Nigeria strives to build the needed ICT infrastructure, the efforts would be in vain if there is no critical mass of ICT adoption and use to drive the digital revolution.

Oracle Raises Concern over ICT Growth, Digital Transformation Group Business Editor

Emma Okonji

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

Ă™Ă˜Ă‹ĂžĂ’Ă‹Ă˜ äĂ?

Comms/e-Business Editor

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

ÙÎÎã Ă‘Ă?Ă˜Ă?

Senior Correspondent

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

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The Managing Director of Oracle Nigeria, Mr. Adebayo Sanni, has highlighted the trends and challenges affecting the Information and Communications Technology (ICT) landscape and the future of digital transformation within the African region.

Citing statistics released during the IDC CIO Summit META in 2016, which found that public cloud adoption in Nigeria was already close to 40 per cent, with 20 per cent of organisations looking to implement cloud solutions by end of

2018, while a remarkable 25 per cent has no plans to adopt cloud, Sanni said as for private cloud, not only did the statistics show that a mere 11 per cent were set to implement it by the end of 2018, but raised the concern that a staggering 40 per cent had no plans to implement it at all. These statistics, he said, raised questions around Nigeria’s ability to innovate in ICT and ride it to the next level of success. He questioned if there was a lack of interest in cloud that could lose the country ground in the technology revolution, or is adoption merely a trend away? According

to Sanni, the challenge that every country faces right now, not just Nigeria, is in creating a cloud-based infrastructure that is capable of capturing the potential of technologies such as the Internet of Things (IoT), automation and robotics.

In a recent report released by PwC on IoT, the benefits include: real-time analytics for improved decisions and costs, enhanced productivity, better customer service, effective communications, and new revenue streams.

Without access to the backbone of IoT, cloud and its central nervous system, connectivity, which is the enterprise, countries

are likely to lose ground, he said.

Sanni however advised that business and government have to remain relevant and competitive if they wish to participate on the global stage, and the adoption of cloud and the technologies that surround it are instrumental. “The past few years have seen Nigeria steadily emerge from an economic recession that has forced organisations to relook IT spend and focus on targeted and relevant IT investment. It has been almost a blessing in disguise as it has catapulted many organisations away from legacy and weighty architecture

towards the light and scalable agility of the cloud. Nigeria is definitely cloud ready, but there are still some challenges that need to be overcome,� Sanni added One of the most prevalent challenges in Africa, according to him, is, of course, connectivity.

Internet consistency and speed had remained a barrier and access is patchy and costly.

The emerging IoT economy that has dug into Nigerian soil will likely continue its steady growth with both government and private sector organisations paying close attention to cloud and its potential.

25

T H I S D AY ˾ ˜ Ͱͳ˜ ͰͮͯͶ

BUSINESSWORLD

CONSUMER

Chevron, SNEPCo, NNPC amongst Confirmed Speakers at WAIPEC 2018 The Petroleum Technology Association of Nigeria (PETAN) has announced the first set of speakers to feature on the programme at the West African International Petroleum Exhibition and Conference 2018 (WAIPEC), a two day major platform for the oil and gas industry, taking place next month, 7-8 February at the Eko Convention Centre, Lagos, Nigeria.

Industry leaders and expert speakers have been drawn from key stakeholders involved in the oil and gas industry in Nigeria to lead discussions and provide invaluable insight at WAIPEC 2018. These include: GGM, NAPIMS, Roland Ewubare, Ag. CEO, Petroleum Commission, Ghana, Egbert Faibille Jnr, Chief Executive Officer, SEPLAT, Austin Avuru,

Managing Director, Shell Nigeria Exploration and Production Company (SNEPCo), Bayo Ojulari, Senior Technical Advisor on Upstream & Gas to Minister of State for Petroleum Resources, Gbite Adenji, Executive Secretary, Nigerian Content Development and Monitoring Board, Simbi Wabote, Managing Director, Chevron, Jeffrey Ewing and GMD, NNPC, Dr. Maikanti Baru.

WAIPEC’s first class conference programme will lead on ‘New ventures in West Africa; driving oil and gas production through innovative strategies.’ Content will focus on unlocking strategic value, leveraging innovation, best practices and technology that will grow West Africa’s energy industry, through a series of plenary and industry

panel sessions and topical presentations, the organisers said in a statement.

Alongside the conference, the international exhibition, which is free to attend to qualifying individuals, is attracting an increasing number of specialised companies including; The Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation, Chevron, Lee Engineering, Nestoil, Equatorial Guinea, PetroSa and Oilserv.

Exhibitors will be showcasing their latest products and services, including many international and regional energy companies and service providers, regional and national oil companies. A full list of participating companies can be found at www.waipec.com along with further programme information and details of how to register to attend.

Equity Assurance CEO Makes Case for CSR The MD/CEO of Equity Assurance Plc a member of SUNU Group; Mr. Moruf Apampa has described Corporate Social Responsibility as very vital at Equity Assurance Plc as it is incorporated into the company’s business model. He said this is often reinforced with the company’s offeringof needed benefits to the society.

Apampa said Equity Assurance Plc’s CSR objective touches on areas that support wellbeing of citizens, helping them to live well in the society.

“This is to further entrench Equity Assurance Plc as a secure haven which cares about giving back to the societyas its business activities need to take place in the most sustainable way while acting as a catalyst to improve lives.

Our business’ commitment to economic development while improving the quality of life of the workforce and their families as well as of the community and society

at large will always be top priority. We are a member of SUNU Group which provides high quality health and social care that promotes wellbeing, encourages independence and safeguards against unforeseen calamities.”

Also speaking, the Medical Director of Optimal Cancer Care Foundation; Dr. Femi Olaleye said “We are pleased that Equity Assurance Plc is sponsoring this awareness walk and Screening; aimed at raising awareness on cervical cancer and the importance of early detection on January 27th, 2018.

This is highly commendable as we will be embarking on awareness walk and screening with members of the public coming to our Foundation where we will be providing all examinations, tests, procedures and comprehensive education programs on the bill of Equity Assurance Plc. We are very confident that this project will achieve the objectives

of increasing awareness and access to cervical education, screening and treatment services.”

According to an earlier statement issued by the company, as a socially responsible corporate entity, Equity Assurance Plc has four focal areas of Corporate Social Responsibility which are Health, Education, Sports and Arts. For the Health focused CSR Initiative, with technical support from its sister company; MHS HMO Equity Assurance Plc is sponsoring this Cervical Cancer Screening and Walk by partnering with Optimal Cancer Care Foundation as a socially responsible corporate organisation. The Walk is scheduled to hold on Saturday 27th January, 2018 by 7:30am. The Walk will kick off at Optimal Cancer Care Foundation, 118 Bode Thomas Street, Surulere, Lagos, Nigeria.

Thereafter, the Cancer Screening will commence at Optimal Cancer Care Foundation.

Qatar Airways to Display Qsuite at Kuwait Aviation Show 2018 The inaugural Kuwait Aviation Show 2018 will see Qatar Airways display the Boeing 777 fitted with its award-winning new Business Class seat, Qsuite. The show, which will take place from 17-20 January 2018 at Kuwait International Airport, will also showcase Qatar Airways’ extra-wide body Airbus A350-900.

The event, the first of its kind to be held in Kuwait, is set to draw thousands of industry representatives and international media. Qatar Airways’ participation kicks off 2018 with a bang, after capping a success-filled year of 11 new route launches and more than 50 award wins, as well as host of exciting new destinations planned for the upcoming year, including Pattaya, Thailand; Penang, Malaysia and Canberra, Australia, to name just a few.

Qatar Airways Group Chief Executive, His Excellency Mr. Akbar Al Baker, said: “Qatar

Airways is delighted to take part in the first Kuwait Aviation Show, which will attract some of the major aviation manufacturers from around the globe.

“I am sure that Qsuite, our new First in Business Class product, and stateof-the-art Airbus A350-900 will be key attractions throughout the week for the industry, trade, media and aviation enthusiasts alike, demonstrating once again Qatar Airways’ relentless pursuit of innovation and commitment to ensuring the highest-quality experience for our passengers.

“As one of the world’s fastest growing global airlines, operating 63 flights a week to Kuwait’s International Airport and connecting to more than 150 destinations, Qatar Airways is well-positioned to offer its award-winning services to everyone attending the air show.”

Qsuite offers the industry’s

first-ever double bed in Business Class, as well as sliding privacy doors that enable passengers to create their own private cabin.

Launched at ITB Berlin in March 2017 to outstanding global acclaim, Qsuite has revolutionised premium travel by bringing a First Class experience to the Business Class cabin.

The patented features within Qsuite provide the ultimate customisable travel experience for Qatar Airways’ Business Class passengers, enabling them to create an environment specific to their own needs, bringing an additional level of privacy, style and luxury to Business Class travel.

The first aircraft fully-fitted with Qsuite was launched on the airline’s Doha-London route last summer, soon followed by Paris and New York, with service to Washington, D.C. launched earlier this month.

CAPACITY DEVELOPMENT OLODU KEONYEDI

Reasons Why People Fail Every failure has the seed of success inside of it. ßÍÍÏÝÝ ËÖáËãÝ ÝÞËÜÞÝ áÓÞÒ ÐËÓÖßÜϘ ÌËÌÓÏÝ ÖÏËÜØ ÒÙá ÞÙ áËÖÕ Ìã ÐËÖÖÓØÑ ÎÙáؘ ËØÎ ãÙß ÖÏËÜØ ÒÙá ÞÙ ÜÓÎÏ Ë ÌÓÍãÍÖÏ Ìã ÐËÖÖÓØÑ ÝÙ ×ËØã ÞÓ×Ïݲ Ð ãÙß ÞËÕÏ Ë ÍÖÙÝÏÜ ÖÙÙÕ ËÞ ÝÙ×Ï ÙÐ ÞÒÏ ×ÙÝÞ ÝßÍÍÏÝÝÐßÖ ÓØÎÓàÓÎßËÖ ÞÒËÞ ÏàÏÜ ÖÓàÏβ Ùß áÓÖÖ ÜÏËÖÓÝÏ ÞÒËÞ ÞÒÏã ËÖÖ ÐËÓÖÏÎ ÌÓÑ ÞÓ×Ï˛ ßÞ ÞÒÏã ËÖÖ ËÖÝÙ ×ËØËÑÏÎ ÞÙ ÞßÜØ ÞÒÓØÑÝ ËÜÙßØΘ ËØÎ ÞÒÏã ÞÜËØÝÐÙÜ×ÏÎ ÐËÓÖßÜÏÝ ÓØÞÙ ÝßÍÍÏÝÝÏݲ Ùá ÎÓÎ ÞÒÏã ÎÙ ÞÒÓÝˣ ÒÏã ÎÓÝÍÙàÏÜÏÎ ÞÒÏ ÜÏËÝÙØÝ ÐÙÜ ÞÒÏÓÜ ÐËÓÖßÜÏݘ ÖÏËÜØÏÎ Ó×ÚÙÜÞËØÞ ÖÏÝÝÙØÝ ÐÜÙ× ÓÞ ËØÎ ÍÒËØÑÏÎ ÒÙá ÞÒÏã ÞÒÓØÕ ËÌÙßÞ ÐËÓÖßÜÏ˛ ËÓÖßÜÏ ÞÏËÍÒÏÝ ßÝ ÞáÙ Ó×ÚÙÜÞËØÞ ÖÏÝÝÙØÝ˞ ÞÒÏ ʨÜÝÞ ÖÏÝÝÙØ ÓÝ ÞÒËÞ áÏ ËÜÏ ÎÙÓØÑ ÝÙ×ÏÞÒÓØÑ ÍÙ×ÚÖÏÞÏÖã áÜÙØÑ˛ ÒÏ ÝÏÍÙØÎ ÖÏÝÝÙØ ÎÙÏÝ ØÙÞ ÙØÖã ÞÏËÍÒ ßÝ ÞÒËÞ áÏ ÍËØ ËÖáËãÝ ÙàÏÜÍÙ×Ï ÐËÓÖßÜÏ˛ Þ ÚÜÓ×ËÜÓÖã ÞÏËÍÒÏÝ ßÝ ÞÒËÞ áÏ ×ßÝÞ ÑÏÞ ÌËÍÕ ßÚ ËØÎ ÍÙØÞÓØßÏ ÞÒÏ ÚßÜÝßÓÞ ÙÐ ÙßÜ ÎÜÏË×ݲ Ï áÓÖÖ ÌÏ ÎÓÝÍßÝÝÓØÑ ÝÙ×Ï ÙÐ ÞÒÏ ÜÏËÝÙØÝ áÒã ÚÏÙÚÖÏ ÐËÓÖ ËØÎ ÒÙá ÞÙ ÖÏËÜØ ÐÜÙ× ÓÞ˛ REASON WHY PEOPLE FAIL: ËÍÕ ÙÐ Ë ÏÖÖ̋ ÏʨØÏÎ ßÜÚÙÝÏ ÓØ ÓÐÏ˝ ÒÏÜÏ ÓÝ ØÙ ÒÙÚÏ ÙÐ ÝßÍÍÏÝÝ ÐÙÜ ÞÒÏ ÚÏÜÝÙØ áÒÙ ÎÙÏÝ ØÙÞ ÒËàÏ Ë ÍÏØÞÜËÖ ÚßÜÚÙÝϘ ÙÜ ÎÏʨØÓÞÏ ÑÙËÖ˜ ËÞ áÒÓÍÒ ÞÙ ËÓײ Þ ÓÝ ×ßÍÒ ×ÙÜÏ ÎÓʩÍßÖÞ ÞÙ ÝÞß×ÌÖÏ ßÚÙØ ÝßÍÍÏÝÝ ÞÒËØ ãÙß ÐÙÍßÝÓØÑ ãÙßÜ ÓØÞÏØÞ ÙØ ËÍÒÓÏàÓØÑ Ë ÝÚÏÍÓʨÍ ÑÙËÖ ËØÎ ÝÞÜÓàÓØÑ ÞÙáËÜÎÝ ÓÞÝ ÜÏËÖÓÝËÞÓÙØ˛

Ð ãÙß ÒËàÏØ˪Þ ÎÏʨØÏÎ ãÙßÜ ÚßÜÚÙÝϘ ÓÞ˪Ý ÖÓÕÏÖã ãÙß ËÜÏ ØÙÞ ËÝ ÝßÍÍÏÝÝÐßÖ ËÝ ãÙß ×Ëã ÙÞÒÏÜáÓÝÏ ÌÏÍÙ×Ï˛ Ð ãÙß ÎÙØ˪Þ ÕØÙá áÒËÞ ãÙß áËØÞ ÞÙ ÎÙ áÓÞÒ ãÙßÜ ÖÓÐÏ ËÝ ÐËÜ ËÝ ãÙßÜ ÏÎßÍËÞÓÙؘ ÍËÜÏÏÜ ÙÜ ÌßÝÓØÏÝݘ ÓÞ ×ÏËØÝ ãÙß ÎÙØ˪Þ ÕØÙá ËØãÞÒÓØÑ ËÌÙßÞ áÒËÞ ãÙß áËØÞ ÞÙ ÎÙ áÓÞÒ ãÙßÜ ÖÓÐÏ˛ ÒÓÝ ÓÝ Ë ×ËÔÙÜ ÍËßÝÏ ÙÐ ÐËÓÖßÜÏ ÓØ ÖÓÐÏ˞ ×ÙÝÞ ÞÓ×Ï áÏ ÜÏËÖÓÝÏ ÞÒËÞ ãÙß ÒËàÏ ÐËÓÖÏÎ áÒÏØ ãÙß ËÜÏ ËÌÙßÞ ÞÙ ÜÏÞÓÜÏ ÙÜ ÓØ ãÙßÜ ×ÓÎ̋ÐÙÜÞÓÏÝ ÙÜ ×ËãÌÏ ÏËÜÖÓÏܘ ËØÎ ÝßÎÎÏØÖã ãÙß ÜÏËÖÓÝÏ ãÙß ËÜÏ ÒËÖÐáËã ÞÒÜÙßÑÒ ÖÓÐÏ ËØÎ ÒËàÏØ˪Þ ËÍÍÙ×ÚÖÓÝÒÏÎ ËØãÞÒÓØÑ ÞÒËÞ ãÙß ÒËàÏ ÜÏËÖÖã áËØÞÏÎ ÞÙ ÎÙ˛ ÖÙÞ ÙÐ ÚÏÙÚÖÏ ËÜÏ ËÌÖÏ ÞÙ ʨÑßÜÏ ÙßÞ áÒËÞ ÓÞ ÓÝ ÞÒÏã áËØÞ ÞÙ ÎÙ áÓÞÒ ÞÒÏÓÜ ÖÓàÏÝ ÙØ ÞÒÏÓÜ Ùáؘ ÌßÞ ×ËÔÙÜÓÞã ÙÐ ÚÏÙÚÖÏ ÍËØØÙÞ˜ ËØÎ ÓÐ ãÙß ÍËØ˪Þ ÞÒÏØ ãÙß ÍËØ ËÖáËãÝ ÑÙ ÞÙ Ë ÌßÝÓØÏÝÝ ÍÙËÍÒ˞ ÓÞ ÍËØ ÌÏ ËØ Ó××ÏØÝÏÖã ÑÙÙÎ ÏâÚÏÜÓÏØÍÏ˛ Lack of Ambition to Aim Above Mediocrity: Ï ÙʥÏÜ ØÙ ÒÙÚÏ ÐÙÜ ÞÒÏ ÚÏÜÝÙØ áÒÙ ÓÝ ÝÙ ÓØÎÓʥÏÜÏØÞ ËÝ ØÙÞ ÞÙ áËØÞ ÞÙ ÑÏÞ ËÒÏËÎ ÓØ ÖÓÐϘ ËØÎ áÒÙ ÓÝ ØÙÞ áÓÖÖÓØÑ ÞÙ ÚËã ÞÒÏ ÚÜÓÍÏ˛ ßÍÍÏÝÝ ÜÏÛßÓÜÏÝ ÒËÜÎ áÙÜÕ˜ ×ÙÞÓàËÞÓÙØ ËØÎ ÚÏÜÝÓÝÞÏØÍÏ˛ Ð ÙØÏ ÓÝ ÍÙØÞÏØÞ áÓÞÒ ÌÏÓØÑ ÙØÏ ÙÐ ÞÒÏ ÍÜÙáÎݘ ÙØÏ áÓÖÖ ØÙÞ ÜÏËÍÒ ÒÓÑÒ ÚÙÝÓÞÓÙØÝ ÓØ ÖÓÐÏ ÌÏÍËßÝÏ ÒÏ ÖËÍÕÝ ÞÒÏ ÓØÞÏÜØËÖ ÎÏÝÓÜÏ˛ Insufficient Education: ÒÓÝ ÓÝ Ë ÒËØÎÓÍËÚ ÞÒËÞ ×Ëã ÌÏ ÙàÏÜÍÙ×Ï áÓÞÒ ÍÙ×ÚËÜËÞÓàÏ ÏËÝÏ˛ âÚÏÜÓÏØÍÏ ÒËÝ ÚÜÙàÏØ ÞÒËÞ ÞÒÏ ÌÏÝÞ̋ ÏÎßÍËÞÏÎ ÚÏÙÚÖÏ ËÜÏ ÙʰÏØ ÞÒÙÝÏ áÒÙ ËÜÏ ÕØÙáØ ËÝ ÝÏÖÐ̋×ËÎÏ ÙÜ ÝÏÖÐ̋ÏÎßÍËÞÏβ Þ ÞËÕÏ ×ÙÜÏ ÞÒËØ Ë ßØÓàÏÜÝÓÞã ÎÏÑÜÏÏ ÞÙ ×ËÕÏ ÙØÏ Ë ÚÏÜÝÙØ ÙÐ ÏÎßÍËÞÓÙØ˛ Øã ÚÏÜÝÙØ áÒÙ ÓÝ ÏÎßÍËÞÏÎ ÒËÝ ÖÏËÜØÏÎ ÞÙ ÑÏÞ áÒËÞÏàÏÜ ÞÒÏã áËØÞ

ÓØ ÖÓÐÏ áÓÞÒÙßÞ àÓÙÖËÞÓØÑ ÞÒÏ ÜÓÑÒÞÝ ÙÐ ÙÞÒÏÜݲ ÎßÍËÞÓÙØ ÍÙØÝÓÝÞÝ ØÙÞ ÝÙ ×ßÍÒ ÙÐ ÕØÙáÖÏÎÑϘ ÌßÞ ÙÐ ÕØÙáÖÏÎÑÏ ÏʥÏÍÞÓàÏÖã ËØÎ ÚÏÜÝÓÝÞÏØÞÖã ËÚÚÖÓÏβ ÏÙÚÖÏ ËÜÏ ÚËÓÎ ØÙÞ ×ÏÜÏÖã ÐÙÜ áÒËÞ ÞÒÏã ÕØÙᘠÌßÞ ×ÙÜÏ ÚËÜÞÓÍßÖËÜÖã ÐÙÜ áÒËÞ ÞÒÏã ÎÙ áÓÞÒ áÒËÞ ÞÒÏã ÕØÙᲠProcrastination: ÒÓÝ ÓÝ ÙØÏ ÙÐ ÞÒÏ ×ÙÝÞ ÍÙ××ÙØ ÍËßÝÏÝ ÙÐ ÐËÓÖßÜÏ˛ ÙÝÞ ÙÐ ßÝ ÑÙ ÞÒÜÙßÑÒ ÖÓÐÏ ËÝ ÐËÓÖßÜÏÝ ÌÏÍËßÝÏ áÏ ËÜÏ áËÓÞÓØÑ ÐÙÜ ÞÒÏ ˫ÞÓ×Ï ÞÙ ÌÏ ÜÓÑÒÞˬ ÞÙ ÝÞËÜÞ ÎÙÓØÑ ÝÙ×ÏÞÒÓØÑ áÙÜÞÒáÒÓÖÏ˛ Ù ØÙÞ áËÓÞ˛ ÒÏ ÞÓ×Ï áÓÖÖ ØÏàÏÜ ÌÏ ˫ÔßÝÞ ÜÓÑÒÞ˛ˬ ÞËÜÞ áÒÏÜÏ ãÙß ÝÞËØΘ áÙÜÕ áÓÞÒ áÒËÞÏàÏÜ ÞÙÙÖÝ ãÙß ×Ëã ÒËàÏ ËÞ ãÙßÜ ÍÙ××ËØΘ ËØÎ ÌÏʵÏÜ ÞÙÙÖÝ áÓÖÖ ÌÏ ÐÙßØÎ ËÝ ãÙß ÑÙ ËÖÙØÑ˛ ÜÙÍÜËÝÞÓØËÞÓÙØ ÓÝ ßÝßËÖÖã ÍÙØÝÓÎÏÜÏÎ ÞÒÏ ÒËÌÓÞ ÙÐ ÎÏÖËãÓØÑ ÙÜ ÚÙÝÞÚÙØÓØÑ ÝÙ×ÏÞÒÓØÑ˛ ÙáÏàÏܘ ÙØ ÍÖÙÝÏÜ ÖÙÙÕ ÚÜÙÍÜËÝÞÓØËÞÓÙØ ÓÝ ×ÙÜÏ ÞÒËØ ÔßÝÞ ÚÙÝÞÚÙØÓØÑ ÝÙ×ÏÞÒÓØÑ˞ ÓÞ˪Ý ËÍÞßËÖÖã ÌÏʵÏÜ ÎÏÝÍÜÓÌÏÎ ËÝ ÚßʵÓØÑ Ùʥ ÝÙ×ÏÞÒÓØÑ ÞÒËÞ ØÏÏÎÝ ÞÙ ÌÏ ÎÙØÏ˛ ÜÙÍÜËÝÞÓØËÞÓÙØ ÓÝ ÞÒÏ ÚÙÝÞÚÙØÏ×ÏØÞ ÙÐ ÞÒÓØÑÝ ÙʰÏØ áÓÞÒ ÞÒÏ ÝÏØÝÏ ÙÐ ÎÏÐÏÜÜÓØÑ ÞÒÜÙßÑÒ ÓØÎÏÍÓÝÓÙؘ áÒÏØ ÏËÜÖã ËÍÞÓÙØ áÙßÖÎ ÒËàÏ ÌÏÏØ ÚÜÏÐÏÜËÌÖÏ˛ ÒÏÜÏ ÓÝ ØÏàÏÜ Ë ÚÏÜÐÏÍÞ ×Ù×ÏØÞ˛ ÞÙÚ ÞÒÓØÕÓØÑ ãÙß ÍËØ˪Þ ÎÙ ÝÙ×ÏÞÒÓØÑ ÓÐ ãÙß ÎÙØ˪Þ ÐÏÏÖ ÖÓÕÏ ÓÞ ÙÜ ÓÐ ×ÙÞÓàËÞÓÙØ ÒËÝØ˪Þ ÒÓÞ ãÙß ËØÎ ×ÓÝÞËÕÏØÖã ÌÏÖÓÏàÏ ÞÒÓÝ ×ÏËØÝ ãÙß ÍËØØÙÞ ÑÏÞ ÝÞËÜÞÏβ ÒÏØ ÓØ ÐËÍÞ˜ ÞÒÏ ÝÓ×ÚÖÏ ËÍÞ ÙÐ ÑÏʵÓØÑ ÝÞËÜÞÏÎ áÓÖÖ ÎÓÝÝÙÖàÏ ËØã ÐÏÏÖÓØÑÝ ãÙß ÒËàÏ ÙÐ ÓÞ ØÙÞ ÌÏÓØÑ ÞÒÏ ÜÓÑÒÞ ×Ù×ÏØÞ˛ Lack of Persistence: ØÏ ÙÐ ÞÒÏ ×ÙÝÞ ÍÜÓÞÓÍËÖ ÜÏËÝÙØ ÚÏÙÚÖÏ ßÖÞÓ×ËÞÏÖã ÐËÓÖ ÓÝ ÞÒËÞ ÞÒÏã ÑÓàÏ ßÚ ÞÙÙ ÝÙÙØ˛ ÒÏØ ÓÞ ÍÙ×ÏÝ ÎÙáØ ÞÙ ÓÞ˜ ÓÞ˪Ý ÑÓàÓØÑ ßÚ ÏËÜÖã ÓØ ÞÒÏ ËʵÏ×ÚÞ ÞÒËÞ ÓÝ ËÞ ÞÒÏ ÒÏËÜÞ ÙÐ ÐËÓÖßÜÏ˛ ÙÞ ÞÒËÞ ÞÒÏ ÑÙËÖ ÍÙßÖÎØ˪Þ ÌÏ ËÍÒÓÏàÏΘ ØÙÜ ÓÞ áËÝ ÞÙÙ ÎÓʩÍßÖÞ ÌßÞ ÝÓ×ÚÖã ÞÒÏ ÚÏÜÝÙØ ÝÞÙÚÚÏÎ ÞÜãÓØÑ ÐËÜ ÞÙÙ ÏËÜÖã˛ ÏÓØÑ ÚÏÜÝÓÝÞÏØÞ ÓÝ Ë ÝÕÓÖÖ ÞÒËÞ ÍËØ ÒÏÖÚ ãÙß ÞÙ ÜÏËÍÒ Ë ÑÙËÖ˜ ÑÏÞ áÒËÞ ãÙß ÎÏÝÓÜÏ˛ ÒÏ ËÚÚÖÓÍËÞÓÙØ ÙÐ ÚÏÜÝÓÝÞÏØÍÏ ÞÙ ËØã ÞËÝÕ ÙÜ ÑÙËÖ ÓÝ ÙʰÏØ áÒËÞ ÎÓÝÞÓØÑßÓÝÒÏÝ ÌÏÞáÏÏØ ÞÒÙÝÏ áÒÙ ËÜÏ ÝßÍÍÏÝÝÐßÖ ËØÎ ÞÒÙÝÏ áÒÙ ÐËÓÖ ÓØ ËØã ÏØÎÏËàÙܲ ËÍÕ ÙÐ Ë ÏÖÖ̋ ÏʨØÏÎ ÙáÏÜ ÙÐ ÏÍÓÝÓÙØ˝ ÏÙÚÖÏ áÒÙ ÝßÍÍÏÏÎ ÜÏËÍÒ ÎÏÍÓÝÓÙØÝ ÚÜÙ×ÚÞÖ㘠ËØÎ ÍÒËØÑÏ ÞÒÏ×̋ÓÐ ËÞ ËÖÖ̋àÏÜã ÝÖÙáÖã˛ ÏÙÚÖÏ áÒÙ ÐËÓÖ ÜÏËÍÒ ÎÏÍÓÝÓÙØÝ ̋ÓÐ ËÞ ËÖÖ̋ àÏÜã ÝÖÙáÖ㘠ËØÎ ÍÒËØÑÏ ÞÒÏ× ÐÜÏÛßÏØÞÖã ËØÎ ÛßÓÍÕÖã˛ ØÎÏÍÓÝÓÙØ ËØÎ ÚÜÙÍÜËÝÞÓØËÞÓÙØ ËÜÏ ÞáÓØݲ Ùß ÜÏËÖÖã ÍËØ˪Þ ÝßÍÍÏÏÎ ÓÐ ãÙß ÖËÍÕ Ë áÏÖÖ̋ÎÏʨØÏÎ ÚÙáÏÜ ÙÐ ÎÏÍÓÝÓÙØ˛ ÏÍÓÝÓÙØ ÓÝ ÞÒÏ ÒÏËÜÞ ÙÐ ÝßÍÍÏÝݲ Over-Caution: ÒÏ ÚÏÜÝÙØ áÒÙ ÞËÕÏÝ ØÙ ÍÒËØÍÏÝ ÑÏØÏÜËÖÖã ÒËÝ ÞÙ ÞËÕÏ áÒËÞÏàÏÜ ÓÝ ÖÏʰ áÒÏØ ÙÞÒÏÜÝ ÒËàÏ ʨØÓÝÒÏÎ ÍÒÙÙÝÓØÑ˛ àÏÜ̋ ÍËßÞÓÙØ ÓÝ ËÝ ÌËÎ ËÝ ßØÎÏÜ̋ÍËßÞÓÙØ˛ ÙÞÒ ËÜÏ ÏâÞÜÏ×ÏÝ ÞÙ ÌÏ ÑßËÜÎÏÎ ËÑËÓØÝÞ˛ ÓÐÏ ÓÞÝÏÖÐ ÓÝ ʨÖÖÏÎ áÓÞÒ ÞÒÏ ÏÖÏ×ÏØÞ ÙÐ ÍÒËØÍÏ˛ ÓØËÖÖ㘠ÝßÍÍÏÝÝ ÓÝ ØÙÞ ÞÒÏ ÜÏÝßÖÞ ÙÐ ÑÏʵÓØÑ ÞÒÓØÑÝ ÜÓÑÒÞ ÞÒÏ ʨÜÝÞ ÞÓ×Ï ãÙß ÞÜ㘠ÓØÝÞÏËÎ ÓÞ ÍÙ×ÏÝ ÐÜÙ× ÑÜËÎßËÖÖã ÎÓÝÍÙàÏÜÓØÑ ÒÙá ÓÞ˪Ý ØÙÞ ÎÙØϘ ËØÎ ÞÙ ÕÏÏÚ ʨâÓØÑ áÒËÞ áÏ ËÜÏ ÎÙÓØÑ áÜÙØј ßØÞÓÖ áÏ ÑÏÞ ÓÞ ÜÓÑÒÞ˛ Ï áÓÖÖ ÒÏÖÚ ãÙß ÞÙ ÎÓÝÍÙàÏÜ ÞÒÏ ÑÜÏËÞ ÚÙáÏÜ ÙÐ ÐËÓÖßÜÏ ËØÎ ÒÙá ÞÙ ßÝÏ ÞÒÏÝÏ ÏâÚÏÜÓÏØÍÏÝ ÞÙ ÑÜÙá ÝÞÜÙØÑÏÜ ÓØ ÞÒÏ ÐßÞßÜÏ˛ ÞÙÚ áÙÜÜãÓØÑ ËÌÙßÞ ÐËÓÖßÜÏ˞ ÓÞ áÓÖÖ ÚÜÙÐÙßØÎÖã ÍÒËØÑÏ ÞÒÏ áËã ãÙß ÞÒÓØÕ ËÌÙßÞ ÐËÓÖßÜÏ˛

Olodu keonyedi – is a trained engineer and by passion and personal development a public/motivational speaker, a business coach and human capacity developer, he has a B.Eng degree in Civil Engineering from the University of Nigeria Nsukka, he is a member of Nigeria Society of Engineer and a COREN registered Engineer.

Email: olodukeonyedi@gmail.com Tel: 08037489704, www.instagram.com/sir_keon. www.facebook.com/olodu keonyedi_mentorship

26

T H I S D AY Ëž Í°ÍłËœ Í°ÍŽÍŻÍś

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Tackling Unemployment in Nigeria The effect of the massive drift by Nigerian youths out of the country in search of employment could be tackled through technology apps that are driving metropolitan transport systems, writes Emma Okonji

A large crowd of Nigerian youths during 2016 Immigration recruitment exercise

I

n line with the federal government’s decision to boost local content development across all sectors of the economy that will enhance technology development in the county as well as facilitate adaptation to local conditions, technology savvy individuals and organisations are gradually developing transport apps.

These apps are enabling Nigerian users to cut through gridlocks while creating massive jobs on a driver-partner scheme.

Findings from a three-month research conducted recently by an indigenous communications and public relations company, Plexus Media Interlinks Limited, shows that about 2,000 people, who are out of school and seeking employment, have taken to Taxify as a viable platform to be self-employed.

They are taking advantage of the technology app crated to drive the Taxify transport business that is fast spreading across various metropolis in the country and beyond.

The study shows that one in 10 unemployed graduates are considering getting on the app to earn a living, or may have commenced the process to be signed on the platform as driver partners.

Technology that empowers youths Some Nigerian youths who have taken advantage of the transport app created to drive the Taxify metropolitan transport business, have come out bold to testify how the technology app has empowered them in various ways and also helped them in solving unemployment challenges.

A year ago, Nigeria’s Emmanuel Akpan became a driver for Taxify and took advantage of its ride-sharing app that connects drivers with customers who want a ride. At that time, he said he saw his monthly salary nearly doubled.

The 44-year-old driver makes about 16 trips per day. “The experience has been good, especially compared with other taxis. There’s more money, and the clientele has more trust in you,� he said.

Another particular inspiring story of the

Taxify revolution in the country is that of

Some Nigerian youths who have taken advantage of the transport app created to drive the Taxify metropolitan transport business, have come out bold to testify how the technology app has empowered them in various ways and also helped them in solving unemployment challenges. A year ago, Nigeria’s Emmanuel Akpan became a driver for Taxify and took advantage of its ridesharing app that connects drivers with customers who want a ride. At that time, he said he saw his monthly salary nearly doubled. The 44-yearold driver makes about 16 trips per day

CULLED FROM THECABLE

Ayo Johnson, who was a banker with one of Nigeria’s biggest banks and was laid off in the heat of the recession in 2016.

With a family of four to feed and no other source of income, he turned to Taxify. In his first week he made N95,000, a figure he wasn’t even making in the new generation bank where he had worked. “I am now able to provide for my family, keep my kids in good schools and because of the flexibility of the platform, still make it home everyday to spend time with them,�

Johnson said.

According to the management of Taxify, which is made up of young talented technology savvy people, “there are so many Ayos’ who for one reason or another have chosen to either supplement their income with Taxify or make Taxify their primary source of income.�

Technology and the ease of driving Driver partners on the Taxify platform have continued to talk about the ease of driving, the flexible hours that makes it an option for not just the unemployed but also for the underemployed, using the transport technology app.

One of the driver partners, Kehinde Adegbite, said: “I was on another ride-hailing platform before now and we were badly treated and we were down.

So, the coming on board of Taxify has been awesome.�

According to him, “It came when we were down.

It has empowered us. Working with Taxify is the best for any driver partner now. The commission is just unbeatable. “Taxify takes only 15 per cent commission in contrast to competitors that take as high as 25 per cent and Taxify also constantly provide drivers with bonuses to further supplement their earnings.�

A female driver partner, Victoria Igein, said: “I have been working with Taxify for a year now and it has been the only e-sharing driver’s platform I have worked with since I lost my job in Abuja as a banker and came back to Lagos.

It took me a while to get my current job,

which I shuffle with being a Taxify driver, but I have been able to manage both thus far.�

She added: “The platform has met 8 out of 10 of my expectations as it favours drivers because they give more percentages and bonuses for working long hours, weekends and holidays. So I make as much as I need on Taxify and I haven’t ever bothered thinking of moving on to other platforms.�

For Chuks Izedinuor, he drove on Taxify for a week, then decided to drive professionally after losing his job. “I can’t say so much about it for now but it has been extremely productive to work with the platform and I will definitely recommend it to other people,� Izedinuor said.

Attaining professionalism on the job According to management of Taxify Nigeria, led by its Operations Manager, Mr. Uche Okafor, all Taxify drivers must follow certain procedures before driving on the platform, which has to do with professionalism and trust.

After signing up to drive online at partners. taxify.eu and submitting all relevant authentic documents, they are trained and pass through an on-boarding process before driving on the platform. Drivers are then evaluated by passengers after each trip to ensure that the quality is maintained.

About Taxify Taxify is a ride-hailing application that was founded in Estonia some years back, but it was launched in Lagos on November 18, 2016 and had since then become a top competitor to the local ride-hailing apps. The main focus is on treating drivers and riders better by providing a more inclusive service with efficient reachable support.

Taxify is aggressively expanding its African footprint. In addition to its presence in Lagos and Abuja, it is present in over six African cities and over 30 cities across Europe, the Middle East and central America.

With this ecosystem, Taxify has managed to create something many governments struggle with - a dignified, efficient, flexible and effective channel for job creation.

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Elevating Lotteries to a New Level As Nigeria’s lottery market continues to accommodate more investors, Raheem Akingbolu writes on the economic relevance of the development as well as opportunities that await consumers Taking a chance, especially if the cost is pretty minimal, has always been part of human nature.

This explains why lottery predates the modern world. Some accounts from primordial times suggest that casting lots and betting must have been quite popular even in biblical times.

As stated in the Christian holy book, Jonah, a servant of God, embarked on a spiritual mission to rescue the people of Nineveh. While the journey lasted, his ship was met with a violent tempest. The travelers decided to cast lots – another line of lottery – to decipher the immediate cause of the storm. At other times, lots were cast to determine which of the priests at Jerusalem’s temple carried out a certain function like cleansing the altar or offering incense to God. Roman soldiers also cast lots, and numbers were probably picked to decide who would go home with Jesus’ prized garment.

In medieval times, including the period of the ancient Roman Empire, luck was always seen as a key aspect of success and life. Little wonder, a senator and historian of the Roman Empire, Tacitus was quick to add: “Valour is of no service, chances rule all.� From the era of Renaissance right into the 18thCentury in Europe, lottery and betting assumed a crucial aspect of city festivals, town fairs and moving carnivals.

Nigeria experience In Nigeria, pools betting dominated the pre and early post-independence period. Since then, there has been steady increase and growth in bets and lotteries. Presently, the industry is estimated to be worth about N40 billion annually, according to PricewatershouseCoopers (PwC) - a global audit firm. What is more cheery for practitioners is the fact that, the sector has been projected to grow geometrically within the next decade; and such leap in fortune is estimated to further create tons of opportunities for the swarming army of Nigeria’s young people and brands bold enough to grow their business creatively.

It is thus, quite logical that, lately, many investors and players with insight have plunged with vitality into this sector to savour the huge opportunity provided by the over 180 million pockets that populate the Nigerian market. The latest entrant in this market is TOTI Prima, a new lottery company led by experienced lottery operators, poised to give Nigerian lottery fans the wings to fly, dream, win big and create a realistic supplementary income that will change their stories.

The lotto brand was formally unveiled recently at a ceremony in Lagos and was witnessed by many stakeholders in the market, including the representatives of the National Lottery Regulatory Commission (NLRC) and the Lagos State Lotteries Board.

Even from her first day of formal operation, the brand revealed her bold and adventurous posture as one of Nigeria’s most cerebral celebrities; Uti Nwachukwu was unveiled as her Brand Ambassador. Uti brought class, panache and excitement to the event as he raved the audience with a touch of that style that gave him success at the popular Big Brother Africa Reality Show. He ignited the audience’s passion during the raffle draw which he anchored to the admiration of the guests. Mr. Alibi Idowu won One Million Naira, as the very first winner of TOTI Prima draw. The transparency in this maiden draw strongly underlines the values of integrity and openness that are strong constituents on the TOTI Prima brand.

Brand promise This is a clear demonstration of Aaker’s position about a brand. A brand is a bundle of positive experiences; and a cluster of values, feelings and expectations from the consumers.

It represents the totality of what the consumer experiences when patronizing or interacting with the brand.

A brand represents a promise made and a promise fulfilled. A brand is a heuristic signifier

L-R: Brand Ambassador, Toti Prima, Uti Nwachukwu, Winner of the surprise gift, Afolabi Idowu, Chief Executive OďŹƒcer, Jean Paul Tabone and the Marketing and Business Development Manager, Toby Nwanede at the unveiling of Toti Prima brand in Lagos...recently for integrity, uniqueness, distinction, delivery.

A brand resonates with benefits and offerings which could come in the form of functional, symbolic or emotional values. TOTI Prima Lotto is a brand that carries the full weight of what a quality brand stands for. This is captured in TOTI Prima Lotto promise to provide a reliable platform that is based on integrity and transparency, which encourages people,

It is thus, quite logical that, lately, many investors and players with insight have plunged with vitality into this sector to savour the huge opportunity provided by the over 180 million pockets that populate the Nigerian market.

The latest entrant in this market is TOTI Prima, a new lottery company led by experienced lottery operators, poised to give Nigerian lottery fans the wings to fly, dream, win big and create a realistic supplementary income that will change their stories

not only to dream‌but to be certain that their dreams will become reality. To facilitate their dream the lotto draws are live draws that are devoid of human interference which are broadcast across social media channels every Tuesday, Thursday and Saturday.

Every quality brand has an essence and a set of attributes that characterise what the brand stands for. TOTI Prima brand essence is Bringing Dreams to Reality; Changing People’s Story; with brand attributes of integrity, transparency, Nigerianess, charitableness and reliability. The brand signs off on a slogan that says: TOTI – Dream, Win (It’s much more than a game). All these brand artifacts and collaterals were exhibited at the brand launch including the actual handing over of a whooping One Million naira to the winner of the first draw of the game, Mr. Alibi Idowu, to clearly authenticate the integrity of the brand and the definition that a brand is a promise fulfilled or a bundle of positive experiences.

Future projection Speaking at the event, the Chairman, TOTI Prima Lotto, Mr. Mario Camilleri revealed the aspiration of TOTI Prima Lotto to become a household name in Lagos and in Nigeria as a whole. He said that the company’s strategy is to create a very strong TOTI Prima brand equity based on integrity, sincerity, tenacity of purpose and delivery starting from Lagos, and subsequently across all the states of Nigeria.

This, he said, explains why the brand, apart from serving as supplementary income and improving people’s well-being, is positioning itself as a choice instrument that brings Dreams to Reality besides Changing People’s Stories.

Speaking further, Mario Camilleri explained that the company had engaged in painstaking market research and strategic mapping which took about two years of planning, to come to the conclusion that TOTI Prima should play lotto in the Nigerian market. At a time when some companies were faint to invest in the Nigerian economy, Camilleri showed confidence in Nigeria and the Nigerian people. According to him, TOTI Prima believes in Nigeria, her economy and her people. The company sees a country where it can contribute its own quota to make the economy more robust. He added that the company feels the energy of the people and the vast opportunity in the land for companies that are ready to bring

something refreshing to the people and the economy. TOTI Prima is ready to give the people the game to fly their dream, he said.

The Chairman further revealed that, apart from the approval from both the Lagos State Lotteries Board and the NLRC, they also discovered that the Nigerian market is a mature economy, with truly strong regulators, world class banks, professional lawyers, creative marketers and other support companies who, they believe, could help them get to their final destination. “Today we believe that we are able to change people’s lives, as well as perception of lottery in Nigeria.�

Just as the current influx of lottery companies has led to the titanic struggle among players to outsmart one another in brand equity and profitability, so are lottery players driven by the appetite to rake in good fortune from those with the most favourable package and game offering.

The Marketing/ Business Development Manager of TOTI Prima Lotto, Mr. Toby Nwanede, in his presentation, revealed other unique strategies to be explored by TOTI Prima to control the Nigerian lotto market.

He explained that his organisation recognises the entrepreneurial spirit of the Nigerian; their strength of character and determination that inspires them to progress in life, with that sense of responsibility of improving their lives and those around them. He said that, this understanding and awareness is what shaped their outlook on the game of lottery, moving it beyond the passion of playing, to the point of winning. He said that, “While most other operators have stuck with the traditional lotto style game, our new strategy is to create a game offering better odds, prizes and simpler game play. We are poised to provide a reliable platform that is based on integrity and transparency, as our live draws will be devoid of human interference. We will broadcast across social media channels every Tuesday, Thursday and Saturday. We passionately want to encourage people, not only to dream but be certain that their dreams will become reality�.

With all these unique steps taken, it is expected that, many Nigerians, especially the youths, thrilled by these unfolding exciting developments, will agree that quality competition in the industry can translate into some extra wads of naira notes in their pocket. What is the risk? Just One Hundred Naira only!

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Lucas: To Fix Youth Unemployment, We Must Rethink Learning In a recent interview, youth development expert and Founder, Graduatepro, Naomi Lucas, talks about the new media, and an innovation which has the potential to transform the lives of youth across Africa and beyond. Abimbola Akosile brings the excerpts:

Y

a lack of engagement in the classroom. We understand this, so we’ve designed I’m A Graduate Now What? to deal with the issue at different levels. It helps the young person reactivate his/her critical thinking abilities. It not only does this, it tackles the most pressing questions young people ask: Who am I? Why am I here? What are my strengths? What are my weaknesses? How do I deal with my past? How to I improve my confidence? How do I plan my career?

What kind of work am I best suited for?

How do I find meaningful work? How do I remain competitive in such a fast-changing world? How do I manage societal pressure?

What must I do to stay ahead? A key point to note is that ‘I’m A Graduate Now What?’ puts responsibility for personal and professional transformation firmly at the feet of the listener, not parents, religious institutions or the government. It provides every step of the way, practical steps the listener can take to become actively engaged and productive citizens. We know however, that the internet and mobile technology has its limitations, so we’ve created the Career Design Workshop, a peer-driven, experiential programme that uses I’m A Graduate Now What? The Audio Experience to help young people plan their future. Targeted at the most critical cluster(s) of users we want to reach – undergraduates, corps members and job seekers, the Career Design Workshop will be rolled out in 21 cities across Nigeria from February 2018.

ou recently launched an initiative titled, ‘I’m A Graduate. Now What? The Audio Experience, as a way of helping youth in Nigeria and across the globe to address critical socio-economic issues affecting them.

How will you describe the journey so far?

I can think of a few words to describe the journey so far - eye-opening, interesting, daunting and surprisingly rewarding. We began production in 2015 after years of writing, focus group sessions, expert review of the content and extensive research to select the final cast and crew. Creating the kind of product we have created required a lot of tinkering - from designing sound for the skits in the audiobook, to the theme song, to the 35 original songs used as soundtracks for the chapters, to creating illustrations and album art for each of the 56 narrators who took part in the project, to designing the videos and marketing collaterals; it was an extremely tasking process due to the sheer scale of the project and the very limited resources we had at our disposal.

What are the components of The Audio Experience and what is it set to achieve, especially considering Nigeria’s revered role in sub-Saharan Africa?

I had a few theories for why product like I’m A Graduate Now What? is an absolute necessity. First, I believe critical thinking is largely a dormant ability in young people due to an educational system that discourages and sometimes even punishes curiosity and interrogation. Second, I believe young people have more capacity than we give them credit for and they must be empowered to make their own decisions. Third, I believe teaching methods need to reflect the realities of learning in the 21st century as learning styles have evolved dramatically. Most important is the fact that Nigeria needs to set the pace and take responsibility for tackling youth unemployment in Africa as we make the largest contribution to the pool of un/under-employed youths on the continent. Bearing all of these factors in mind, my intention was to create a product that was exhaustive and potent enough to tackle the key issues young people grapple with, and presenting it in a format that was accessible, portable and required minimal physical infrastructure such as bookshops.

Equally important was the need to ensure the content resonated with our target users, plugged into the current realities of their everyday lives and leveraged opportunities such as mobile technology and the internet.

Once we were able to think through the

Naomi Lucas imperatives I just highlighted, we went to work. The outcome is a fusion of original music, storytelling, drama and narration thoughtfully woven into what we now call I’m A Graduate, Now What? We intend to replicate this project across key African countries working with the governments of those countries and stakeholders in the private sector. Our goal is to first, spotlight the unemployment crisis by leveraging the media, internet and mobile technology and by harnessing the collective influence of our cast; and then tackle it by attacking the problem along every step of the value-chain, working with programme partners based in the locations where we deploy.

How can young and aspiring Nigerian entrepreneurs especially those who are not graduates take advantage of this audio experience to launch their business goals?

I call ‘I’m A Graduate Now What?’ a ‘Why-to’ book. It focuses on the fundamentals, the things that don’t change. It focuses primarily on why as opposed to how. It is designed to help young people find clarity, discover self and create a roadmap for their future. While the title may sound exclusive to a category of

young people, it is a book every young person should listen to. I’m A Graduate Now What? focuses on the cause(s) and not symptoms, of all issues affecting young people by tackling the problem of identity, purpose, strengths, passion, clarity about the past, present and the future, and empowering the listener to take control of their life and personal and professional development. It is only after they have done this that we should talk about what track they should focus on or what they are best suited for.

Youth unemployment rate in Nigeria reached an all time high moving from 19.20 per cent in 2014 to 25.20 per cent in 2016. How will this audiobook address this issue?

I have alluded to some of the issues that have created the hydra-headed monster we are battling today. To fix the problem, it is important to understand it. The current design of our educational system cannot produce the kind of manpower we need to tackle our present/future challenges as a country. A system that discourages intellectual discourse and participation and encourages passive observation and regurgitation of what has been taught will suffer the consequence of

Research and other reports have confirmed the inevitable impact of video and how this has engendered improved learning results.

Is this factored into the audiobook?

I’m A Graduate Now What? was actually an audio-visual production. While we recorded the audio, we had a video crew recording the process as well. We also took time out to ask narrators some key questions, “Knowing what you know now, what would you do differently?�, “What advice do you have for someone starting out?� Using content from their responses, we have created 51 videos that serve as supplementary content for I’m A Graduate Now What?. With the kind support of Ford Foundation, we are about to roll out a pilot 2-week boot camp in Akwanga, Nasarawa state using the entire I’m A Graduate Now What? audio-visual content. I can’t wait to witness participants’ interaction with the content and the overall impact of the boot camp on their lives afterwards.

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

RANDOM THOTS Lagos Waste It was a long awaited move. On Saturday, January 13, the Lagos State Government announced a total ban on the operations of cart pushers and wheel barrow operators in the State, as it simultaneously began full implementation of the Cleaner Lagos Initiative (CLI).

To justify the ban, the Secretary to the State Government, Mr. Tunji Bello, in a statement, said investigations had revealed that the cart pushers hindered environmental cleanliness and were responsible for most of the illegal dump-

ing of waste in canals and road medians at night which caused flooding, adding that they were also traces of security threats.

Since sanctions were applicable to anyone who patronised the cart-pushers, most residents backed off and waste dumps and refuse heaps soon sprouted up all over the metropolis; a situation which posed environmental hazard and generated considerable alarm among millions of residents.

Even though the state government,

through the CLI, quickly swung into action to clear the accumulated waste, the rate of clearance has not outstripped the rate of waste generation, especially in gated communities and areas where waste cannot be collected at night. Daytime activities have also not helped the traffic situation in some areas, but the process is ongoing on a twentyfour-hour basis.

Although change for the better can sometimes be painful like this waste collection scenario, in the long run,

the state government has promised to make Lagos one of the cleanest cities in the world. However, a thought must also be spared for the thousands of unemployed cart-pusher youths who are now out of jobs with no visible income. There are fears that the banned operators may revert to the criminal acts they are being accused of. Lagos doesn’t need an upsurge in crime at this time...worrying thought -Abimbola Akosile

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The 15 ECOWAS Member States

Does Nigeria Really Need the Eco? The United Nations Economic Commission for Africa (ECA) recently said Nigeria’s economic performance is crucial to adopting a proposed single common currency (Eco) in West Africa, because Nigeria represents more than 75 per cent of the GDP of the region. To some analysts, the Eco can expand Nigeria’s economic horizon across the region, even to the Francophone nations. Others believe it will boost regional corruption, and enhance cross-border looting and capital flight. To you, does Nigeria really need the Eco for her development process or not?

Abimbola Akosile * I believe it will augur well if ECOWAS introduces one currency; after all it is working in the European Union member-countries as they have their Euro.

- Mrs. Ijeoma Nnorom, Lagos State * For me, Nigeria does not need the Eco now because we have our teething problems to tackle, like poor leadership, corruption, insurgency, ethnicity, youth unemployment, and cattle herdsmen etc. Yes, it will boost regional corruption and enhance cross border looting and capital flight. Over 100 years after amalgamation and 57 years after independence, we have not been able to achieve even one of the five fundamentals of economic growth: 24-hour electricity, good road network, efficient transport system, adequate security throughout the land and low interest rates so that small scale businesses can thrive. Education, health and other sectors are in poor state. Let’s face and overcome these issues along with wiping out the monsters called poor leadership, corruption, ethnicity, youth unemployment and insurgency etc before we multiply our problems. Let’s forget the question of single common currency Eco in West Africa for now till further notice. God bless Nigeria.

- Mr. Odey Ochicha, Abuja * This ought to be a good initiative for the region. But when a society is driven by selfish interest, the abuse of the Eco is inevitable. It can be shelved for a more appropriate time in the future, not now.

- Ms Nkeiruka Abanna, Lagos State * The last meeting of leaders of the 15 ECOWAS member-nations held in Niamey, Niger Republic, failed to agree on a possible date for the introduction of a common currency for the region, while the Nigerian President, Muhammadu Buhari warned on the need to tread with caution on the matter.

However, Nigeria, being a leading member in the region, other members will look up to her for leadership and the introduction of the single currency in the zone will promote our businesses, help us in export, and facilitate our economic growth within ECOWAS region.

There is need for economic integration among ECOWAS countries, increase in purchasing power of the local currencies of the member

THE FEEDBACK Yes, Nigeria needs the Eco:

4

No, Nigeria doesn’t need it:

7

Others:

1

Radical tip:

Close our borders!

Total no of respondents:

12

Male:

9

Female:

3

Highest location:

Lagos (5)

states, introduction of strong monetary policies, regulation of exchange rates of all countries and the establishment of the West African Central Bank.

- Mr. Michael Adedotun Oke Founder Michael Adedotun Oke Foundation, Federal Capital Territory, Abuja * No; it will be near impossible, costly and counter-productive to enforce the use of one currency as a legal tender in such diverse and complex economies. Our borders are too weak to support such a (laudable) task. How do you ensure that it doesn’t look like unfair imposition especially when Nigeria’s economic growth rate improves geometrically, better than theirs?

That will cause serious bad blood. Colonial masters’ interference, language barriers e.t.c all call for genuine concern. We must look very well before leaping as its reversal effects are better imagined.

- Miss Apeji Patience Eneyeme, Badagry, Lagos State * For me, presently, Nigeria doesn’t really need the Eco. What Nigeria truly needs presently is to keep its house in order. Politically, Nigeria is divided and this also applies regionally in terms of religion and ethnicity. Before we can have development we must throw away our differences and unite. There are those who feel they are superior while others are inferior; we must be united first as a yardstick for any development.

- Hon. Babale Maiungwa, U/Romi, Kaduna

* On the Eco and Nigeria’s economic advancement, I think the positives surpass the negatives. Trade will jerk up as converting currencies before doing business region-wide will be laid to rest. Our economy should start bubbling the way Germany’s economy does in the Eurozone.

- Mr. E. Iheanyi Chukwudi, B.A.R., Apo, Abuja * The idea of a single regional currency in West Africa, though appealing, may not benefit Nigeria in the long run, because of the identified issues of corruption and crossborder capital flight across member nations.

An Eco may encourage looting and this will be counter-productive to development. Let us even close our borders! Britain insisted on its currency the pound even as part of the EU; Nigeria, which contributes around 75 per cent of the region’s GDP, doesn’t really need the Eco for now; maybe much later when regional integration is better.

- Mr. Olumuyiwa Olorunsomo, Lagos State * Nigeria actually needs the Eco to expand her economic horizon across the region even to the Francophone nations, but cabals in the corridors of power will use the window to siphon our hard-earned money to boost regional economic corruption across borders. We need restructuring, so that the unity in diversity that exists does not fade away.

- Mr. Dogo Stephen, Kaduna State * No, Nigeria doesn’t need the Eco for our developmental process. Although we represent more than 75 per cent of the GDP of the region, common language barrier, security challenges, porous borders, external interferences, unemployment issues, money laundering, ethnicity, leadership challenges, unreliable human population data, real amount of money in circulation, timely budget approval and execution etc will make Eco accomplishment too complex and unrealistic.

- Mr. Apeji Onesi, Lagos State * Well, it is a welcome proposal that will promote oneness among the ECOWAS member nations.

After all European nations have their own euro and it is working for them; why not us? Rules and regulations must be obeyed for sustainability of treaty on member nations having one currency. Any nation that violates

the treaty should be sanctioned. It will promote trade and services among them. God bless Nigeria.

- Mr. Gordon Chika Nnorom, Public Commentator, Umukabia, Abia State * Regional integration and development of any sort in the west coast region of Africa is welcome and will certainly boost Nigeria’s development. However, the region does not seem to be stable enough for a single currency. With insurgency, terrorism and mercenary attacks, the region is not yet mature enough to risk embracing the single currency. Before Europe introduced the Euro, they had years of regional economic cooperation through trade, road and rail links, as well as joint technological and scientific projects. The restiveness and economic instability in the region is not fertile ground for single currency at this point in time.

- Mr. Buga Dunj, Jos, Plateau State

Next Week: Are State Governors Really Devt-friendly? Ă“Ă‘Ă?ĂœĂ“Ă‹ËŞĂ? ĂŽĂ?Ă Ă?ÖÙÚ×Ă?Ă˜Ăž Ă?Ă’Ă‹Ă–Ă–Ă?Ă˜Ă‘Ă?Ă? Ă“Ă˜Ă Ă™Ă–Ă Ă? ÖÙå Ă›Ă&#x;ËÖÓÞã Ă™Ă? ĂŒĂ‹Ă?Ă“Ă? Ă?ĂŽĂ&#x;Ă?Ă‹ĂžĂ“Ă™Ă˜Ëœ Ă’Ă“Ă‘Ă’ Ă–Ă?Ă Ă?Ă– Ă™Ă? ÚÙà Ă?ĂœĂžĂŁ Ă‹Ă˜ĂŽ Ă&#x;Ă˜Ă?×ÚÖÙã×Ă?Ă˜ĂžËœ ĂšĂ™Ă™Ăœ ĂœĂ™Ă‹ĂŽ Ă˜Ă?ĂžĂĄĂ™ĂœĂ•Ă? Ă‹Ă˜ĂŽ ĂŒĂ‹Ă?Ă“Ă? Ă“Ă˜Ă?ĂœĂ‹Ă?ĂžĂœĂ&#x;Ă?ĂžĂ&#x;ĂœĂ?Ëœ Ă‹Ă˜ĂŽ Ă“Ă˜Ă‹ĂŽĂ?Ă›Ă&#x;Ă‹ĂžĂ? Ă’Ă?ËÖÞÒ Ă?Ă?ĂœĂ Ă“Ă?Ă?Ă?Ë› ÖÞÒÙĂ&#x;Ă‘Ă’ Ă—Ă‹Ă˜ĂŁ Ă?ÓÞÓäĂ?Ă˜Ă? ĂŒĂ–Ă‹Ă—Ă? ÞÒĂ? Ă?ĂŽĂ?ĂœĂ‹Ă– Ùà Ă?ĂœĂ˜Ă—Ă?Ă˜Ăž Ă—Ă‹Ă“Ă˜Ă–ĂŁ Ă?Ă™Ăœ ÞÒĂ?Ă?Ă? ĂŽĂ?Ă Ă?ÖÙÚ×Ă?Ă˜Ăž Ă–Ă‹ĂšĂ?Ă?Ă?Ëœ Ă—Ă™Ă?Ăž Ă™Ă? ÞÒĂ? Ă“Ă˜ĂŽĂ“Ă?Ă‹ĂžĂ™ĂœĂ? Ă?Ă‹Ă–Ă– Ă&#x;Ă˜ĂŽĂ?Ăœ ÞÒĂ? Ă”Ă&#x;ĂœĂ“Ă?ĂŽĂ“Ă?ĂžĂ“Ă™Ă˜ Ă™Ă? ÞÒĂ? Ă?ÞËÞĂ? Ă‹Ă˜ĂŽ Ă–Ă™Ă?Ă‹Ă– ÑÙà Ă?ĂœĂ˜Ă—Ă?Ă˜ĂžĂ?Ë› Ă™ ĂŁĂ™Ă&#x;Ëœ Ă‹ĂœĂ? ÞÒĂ? Ă?ÞËÞĂ? ÑÙà Ă?ĂœĂ˜Ă™ĂœĂ? ĂœĂ?Ă‹Ă–Ă–ĂŁ ĂŽĂ?Ă Ă?ÖÙÚ×Ă?Ă˜ĂžĚ‹Ă?ĂœĂ“Ă?Ă˜ĂŽĂ–ĂŁËœ Ă‹Ă˜ĂŽ Ă?Ă‹Ă˜ ÞÒĂ?ĂŁ Ă‹Ă?ĂžĂ&#x;Ă‹Ă–Ă–ĂŁ Ă“Ă—ĂšĂœĂ™Ă Ă? Ă™Ă˜ ÞÒĂ?Ă“Ăœ Ă?Ă&#x;ĂœĂœĂ?Ă˜Ăž Ă?ĘĽĂ™ĂœĂžĂ?ËŁ Ă–Ă?Ă‹Ă?Ă? Ă—Ă‹Ă•Ă? ĂŁĂ™Ă&#x;Ăœ ĂœĂ?Ă?ĂšĂ™Ă˜Ă?Ă? ĂŽĂ“ĂœĂ?Ă?ĂžËœ Ă?Ă’Ă™ĂœĂž Ă‹Ă˜ĂŽ Ă?Ó×ÚÖĂ?Ëœ Ă‹Ă˜ĂŽ Ă?ÞËÞĂ? ĂŁĂ™Ă&#x;Ăœ Ă?Ă&#x;Ă–Ă– Ă˜Ă‹Ă—Ă?Ëœ ÞÓÞÖĂ?Ëœ Ă™ĂœĂ‘Ă‹Ă˜Ă“Ă?Ă‹ĂžĂ“Ă™Ă˜Ëœ Ă‹Ă˜ĂŽ Ă–Ă™Ă?Ă‹ĂžĂ“Ă™Ă˜Ë› Ă?Ă?ĂšĂ™Ă˜Ă?Ă?Ă? Ă?Ă’Ă™Ă&#x;Ă–ĂŽ ĂŒĂ? Ă?Ă?Ă˜Ăž ĂŒĂ?ÞåĂ?Ă?Ă˜ ÞÙÎËã Ě™ Ă‹Ă˜Ă&#x;Ă‹ĂœĂŁ Í“Í– Ęś Ă™Ă˜ĂŽĂ‹ĂŁËœ Ă‹Ă˜Ă&#x;Ă‹ĂœĂŁ ͓͚̚ ÞÙ abimbolayi@ yahoo.comËœ greatbimbo@gmail.comËœ abimbola.akosile@thisdaylive. comË› Ă?Ă?ĂšĂ™Ă˜ĂŽĂ?Ă˜ĂžĂ? Ă?Ă‹Ă˜ Ă‹Ă–Ă?Ă™ Ă?Ă?Ă˜ĂŽ Ă‹ Ă?Ă’Ă™ĂœĂž ĂžĂ?âÞ Ă—Ă?Ă?Ă?Ă‹Ă‘Ă? ÞÙ 08023117639 Ă‹Ă˜ĂŽËšĂ™Ăœ 08188361766 Ă‹Ă˜ĂŽËšĂ™Ăœ 08114495306Ë› ÙÖÖËÞĂ?ĂŽ ĂœĂ?Ă?ĂšĂ™Ă˜Ă?Ă?Ă? ĂĄĂ“Ă–Ă– ĂŒĂ? ĂšĂ&#x;ĂŒĂ–Ă“Ă?Ă’Ă?ĂŽ Ă™Ă˜ Ă’Ă&#x;ĂœĂ?ĂŽĂ‹ĂŁËœ Ă?ĂŒĂœĂ&#x;Ă‹ĂœĂŁ Í’

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DEVELOPMENT

Continuous struggle to clear accumulated waste and make Lagos clean again

SOURCE: LASG

Enforce, Implement Policies on Gender Issues, Stakeholders Urge FG, States Abimbola Akosile Experts and stakeholders have called for enforcement of policies on gender issues, which should be implemented across all tiers of government in the country.

Governments were also urged to establish efficiency units to monitor budget implementation; while Gender Responsive Budgeting should be legislated as an act of parliament and mainstreamed in all Ministries Departments and Agencies (MDAs) in Nigeria.

These calls formed part of the recommendations contained in a communiquĂŠ issued at the end of a training of Local Government Stakeholders on Gender Budgeting held recently at Um-Neak Hotels, Uyo, Akwa Ibom State.

The training was geared towards mobilisation of citizens at the grassroots, particularly, women for effective and responsive delivery of fiscal attributes that enhances the empowerment of women

through (participatory) gender responsive budgeting, fiscal equity and economic justice for vulnerable sections of society, among others.

The workshop, which was organised by the Niger Delta Budget Monitoring Group with support from Oxfam in Nigeria, drew participants from different Local Government Areas and MDAs from the following States, Enugu, Lagos, Bayelsa, Delta, Rivers and Akwa Ibom State.

The communiquĂŠ was jointly signed by: Agatha Okike from Enugu State; Uduak Brown from Akwa Ibom State; James Osain - Bayelsa State; Nwoke Cordelia Nneh - Rivers State; Bakporhe Ogheneovo - Delta State; Adetola Adefunke - Lagos State; Celestine Okwudili Odo - Oxfam in Nigeria, and Dr. George-Hill Anthony - Niger Delta Budget Monitoring Group.

Speaker of Akwa Ibom State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Onofiok Luke was in attendance and declared the workshop opened after a keynote speech,

which encapsulated some aspect of Akwa Ibom State Government’s efforts towards gender responsiveness through the State’s fiscal governance and budgetary architecture, which the State Legislature under his leadership plays a critical role.

He assured the participants that Akwa Ibom State Legislature was open to suggestions and contribution from individuals, Civil Society Organisations and development partners geared at stimulating the development in the Akwa Ibom State and Nigeria, in general. He commended the organisers of the workshop for considering Akwa Ibom State as host of the event.

During the training, six papers were presented on various topics with practical group work on development of (gender responsive) action plans for the grassroots. The papers included the following: ‘Strategic Leadership and Influencing through Oxfam’s 5 Pathways of Change: Perspectives on Strategic Partnership and

Financing for Development’; and ‘Mainstreaming the SDGs into the Local Government System: Approaches for Effective Delivery at the Grassroots’.

Others included ‘Development Opportunities for the Local Governments through Effective Engagement at the Grassroots: Using the FADAMA Project as a Case Study’; ‘Gender Roles within the Perspectives of Fiscal Justice’; ‘The Context and Challenges for Gender Equity in Nigeria’s Fiscal Architecture: Way Forward for LGAs in Nigeria’, and ‘Monitoring, Tracking and Evaluation of Gender Responsive Envelopes in the Budget: Approach and Method’.

Among the recommendations at the forum, stakeholders urged that: Government budget at all levels should be made to be people centred from the formulation to implementation stage; the Local Government should be recognised among actors expected to play a key role in the implementation of

the Sustainable Development Goals programmes; while some successes of the FADAMA project should be replicated in the Local Governments Areas for the enhancement of development blueprints at the grassroots.

According to the participants, societal roles assigned on gender, should be opened and not limited to the traditional responsibilities among men and women; fiscal policy should be formulated to promote gender equality and discourage gender biases; proper monitoring, tracking and evaluation of government programmes and projects, as it affects, Gender Responsive Budgeting should be put in place; while public mobilisation/ awareness on gender responsive budgeting should kick-start from the grassroots.

To them, there is need to create an effective monitoring, tracking and evaluation mechanism to ensure proper flow and usage of funds and grants meant for Gender Re-

sponsive Programmes (GRP); and there is need to encourage projects and programmes that will help in bridging the gaps between rural and the urban dwellers. “There should be enforcement of policies on gender issues and should be implemented across all tiers of government.

Government should establish efficiency unit to monitor budget implementation; and Gender Responsive Budgeting should be legislated as an act of parliament and should be mainstreamed in all MDAs�, the forum advised.

NDEBUMOG and Oxfam further expressed willingness to partner relevant government MDAs in the planning and implementation of a Gender Responsive Budgeting tools and templates. Participants also commended the sponsors and organisers for this impactful training, being; the Niger Delta Budget Monitoring Group with support from Oxfam in Nigeria and called for more of the trainings in future.

Herdsmen/Farmers’ Conflicts: Experts Caution on Reprisal Attacks, Security Senator Iroegbu in Abuja A peace and conflict resolution expert and Director General of the Institute for Peace and Conflict Resolution (IPCR), Prof. Oshita Oshita has warned that retaliatory and reprisal measures by aggrieved people and communities occasioned by the herdsmen attacks in Nigeria may provoke a security dilemma.

Oshita gave this warning at a roundtable meeting between peacebuilding experts and media partners to discuss and find solution to recent farmer and herdsmen attacks in Benue, Nasarawa, Taraba and Plateau states, organised by the Search for Common Ground, in Abuja recently.

He said the vicious cycle of attacks and counterattacks in the ongoing farmers / herders’ violent conflicts in some parts of the country is not

the best option or solution but could further worsen the already alarming situation.

He stressed an urgent need to stop bloodletting and to forestall any action that could compound the genocidal scenario that the nation has delved into. By seeking retaliatory measure through arms bearing in self-defence as being canvassed for by a section of the country, he said, “we are provoking security dilemma. This looks like the road to Somalia. We need to take a definite step to stop the bloodletting.�

Oshita stressed the need to find lasting solution to the problem. He, therefore, offered three suggestions, including the need to reconfigure the security architecture of the country; the need by different ethnic nationalities to have a true perception of one another; and the need for the nation to have the image of “whom we are and where we are heading�.

“This is a very destabilising phenomenon and we must all rise up to do all things to stem the situation,� he said.

He also called for sincerity in the way issues of farmer-herder conflict is being reported, saying perceptions are being built into it with people’s narratives taking political, religious and ethnic dimensions. This, he said, is anti-national cohesion. The Director-General charged the civil society organisations to be up and doing with sincerity of purpose, because, to him, the civil society space is becoming slippery and unpredictable; arguing that some organisations are becoming biased and not speaking the mind of the common man. “We need to be authentic because if you are discussing a serious problem without being authentic, it means you are not telling us what could help us to come out of that problem. We

should be ready to implement recommendations towards sustainable solution “We need to inaugurate a sincere platform for dialogue based on the fact that we are one people, one country and because we want to have a sustainable economy that will drive this country in this 21st century and beyond,� he said.

Giving an overview of project and objectives of the media roundtable, the Project Lead, Forum on Farmer-Herder Relations in Nigeria (FFARN), Mrs. Bukola Ademola-Adelehin said the roundtable aimed at bringing together peace and security scholars, practitioners, policymakers and media experts to reflect on current dynamics of farmer-herder conflict in Nigeria.

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

T H I S D AY ˾ THURSDAY JANUARY 25, 2018

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T H I S D AY THURSDAY, JANUARY 25, 2018

HEALTH & LIFESTYLE

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

The Uptick in Kidney Disease The number of Nigerians suffering from kidney disease remains on the rise and has been worsened by inadequate facilities and the high cost of treatment, writes Martins Ifijeh

W

ith recent details from the Global Report on Care Delivery and Kidney Disease, at least 700 million persons around the world have one form of kidney problem or the other, representing about one in every 10 people globally.

And although the prevalence is said to be higher in high-income countries like the United States, Canada and the United Kingdom, many of such countries have considered chronic kidney disease as one of their healthcare priorities, as compared to most low income countries, who despite having an increased prevalence of the issue, do not consider it one of the diseases they must prioritise solving.

One of such low and middle income countries not taking the issue of kidney disease seriously is Nigeria despite having over 36.8 million of its citizens suffering from one form of kidney disease or the other, representing about 23 per cent of the country’s population, according to available statistics.

This figure, which shows one in every seven Nigerians is a sufferer from some form of kidney disorder, has therefore prompted experts to raise alarm that Nigeria was sitting on a keg of gun powder waiting to explode if nothing was done to quell the rising prevalence of the menace in the country.

They believe stakeholders, as well as the government have not zeroed into tackling the issue head on, as the country has failed to put facilities in place to match the rising problems occasioned by the disease in the country. They are also of the opinion that Nigerians must be educated on what to do to prevent the disease as well as how to manage it.

A Nephrologist, Dr. Benson Ariye, explained that over 50,000 Nigerians should presently be on dialysis, but that only about 1,000 persons are presently undergoing dialysis in the country, which was one of the reasons a lot of Nigerians were dying from the disease daily.

He explained that it was rare surviving kidney failure without undergoing dialysis or kidney transplant, adding that if government must protect its citizens from dying from preventable illnesses like Kidney failures or other forms of diseases, then it must put facilities in place to combat the issue.

According to him, the bulk of those suffering from the disease in the country were poor or low income earners who may be unable to afford treatments in India, Canada or the United States. “The only institution they can rely on for support is our government. There should be availability of facilities to treat the various forms of kidney disorder in the country.

“Only a handful of hospitals in the country presently have these dialysis machines, which ideally should be spread across the country to tackle issues of kidney failure.”

He said one of the reasons why proactive measures must be taken was because the peak prevalence period for chronic kidney disease was between 30 and 50 years, representing the manpower shortage and economic waste, adding that “Nigeria cannot afford to lose its active citizens because of inability to provide facilities to combat the health issue.

While lamenting the burden of the disease, he said estimated 15,000 new patients were being diagnosed every year in the country, making the number of persons needing treatments to increase markedly annually.

Ariye also called for the subsidisation of kidney treatments in the country as most sufferers were unable to afford the treatments. “An average Nigerian would most likely not be able to undergo adequate treatment of chronic kidney disease (CKD) which is on the rise.

Despite the thousands of Nigerians who present their cases to the hospital, Ariye believed this represents just a tip of the iceberg of the entire burden of CKD, because majority of those suffering from end stage renal failure or other forms of kidney disorder often do not present their health issue to the hospital

About 36 million Nigerians are still suffering from kidney diseases

on time due to lack of awareness, prohibitive cost of healthcare services or use alternative treatment like spiritual healing and traditional methods.

He said awareness on early presentation was also key to reducing the disease in the country.

The World Health report in 2002 and Global Burden of Disease Project reports show that kidney disease represents the 12th cause of death and 17th cause of disability in the world.

The report also believed this may be an underrepresentation of the contribution of Chronic Kidney Disease to global burden of disease.

Some experts however believed this figure may best suit that of developed countries as kidney disease is reportedly becoming a very high cause of death among people living in underdeveloped and developing countries, including Nigeria.

“In Nigeria, the situation is such that chronic kidney disease represents about eight to 10 per cent of hospital admission even though we know more than 50 per cent of people with the disease do not present their case to the hospital,” says a Resident Doctor with Irrua Specialist Teaching Hospital, Dr. Kenneth Ifidon.

It is rare surviving kidney failure without undergoing dialysis or kidney transplant. If the Nigerian government must protect its citizens from preventable illnesses like Kidney failures or other forms of diseases, then it must put facilities in place to combat these issues

He said this goes to show that the prevalence of the disease is increasing in the country even though kidney care facilities do not match the numbers of people presenting their cases to the hospital.

Causes He said it was important people understood the causes of kidney diseases so they could prevent it. “Some identified causes of kidney diseases include hypertension, diabetes, HIV/ AIDS, among others,” he added.

According to him, hypertension was the leading cause of kidney failure in Nigeria, adding that it often presents no symptoms until it is at the advanced stage. “This is another reason why people should not just assume that since they are walking and not feeling any health issue, then there is no need for checkups. If you want to prevent many forms of health issues, it is imperative that you constantly go for checkups. When one does checkups for hypertension at early stage, the truth is, as you are taking measures to preventing it, you are also indirectly taking measures to preventing kidney disease. So the role of medical checkups cannot be overemphasised if we must stay healthy always.”

He said diabetes has been established to be the leading cause of kidney failure in the country, hence the need for people to prevent things that predisposes them to diabetes. Adding that, “diabetes occurs when the blood glucose levels are excessively high. “Tiny amounts of proteins in urine are an early sign of kidney damage in patients with diabetes.”

On HIV/AIDS, he said it increases the loads on the kidneys and may lead eventually to its failure, hence the need for people to be cautious about habits that predisposes them to risks of contracting HIV/AIDS. Prevention He said people must understand that the kidney was one of the most important organs of the body because of its enormous responsibilities and that attention should be paid to the kidney, while living a healthy lifestyle.

According to him, “while taking measures to preventing hypertension, diabetes and HIV/ AIDS, direct healthy lifestyle will also go a long way in keeping the kidney healthy.”

He said avoiding caffeine addiction was one of the best ways of keeping the kidneys in check.

“People who drink multiple cups of caffeine beverages each day are often at risk of forcing

the kidney to work harder in pumping out the toxins in the caffeine, which overtime makes the kidney weak.

“If you find that you are urinating several times a day more than you used to, try cutting back on caffeine products to see if that helps.

Too much caffeine isn’t good for your body in many ways, and kidney stress is one of them” He also explained that drinking of water was very vital to the health of the kidney. “People who drink plenty of water daily are less likely to have kidney disease because even though the kidney acts more as a filter than a reservoir, toxins can build up if there is not enough water pressure to push them through to the urinary tract for excretion.

“We know there are people who do not like drinking water except extremely necessary, but it shouldn’t be so. If you want to keep your body healthy, drink enough water,” adding that eating of fruits like water melon also goes a long way in keeping the kidney healthy.

Treatment He said it was worrisome that treatment of kidney failure in the country has not been subsidised by the government, as poor patients continue to find it difficult accessing treatment.

According to him, a patient with kidney failure has a 3 to 5 hour dialysis treatment; three times per week while this treatment would only replace about 10 to 15 per cent of the function of healthy kidneys.

“Undergoing a session of dialysis in the country costs about N25,000.00, which means in a week the patient would have spent N75,000.00. This perhaps will continue for a long time. How do we expect the poor Nigerians to pay for this treatment?” He queried.

He said an outright kidney transplant cost an average of N4.5m outside the provision of a donor. “Though most donations are free because they come from relations and family members, but the determination of whether their organ is suitable for surgery or not are often investigated most times abroad thereby compounding the cost. After surgeries, patients must live on drugs to keep the foreign organ in check and these drugs are taken throughout a lifetime and they are expensive,” he added.

He stressed that a government that puts its citizens first must design ways of making this treatment available and affordable for the ordinary citizens and people who also live in rural areas where there are hardly healthcare facilities.

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T H I S D AY THURSDAY, JANUARY 25, 2018

NEWS Lassa Fever: Irrua Isolation One to 4,000 Doctor Population Ratio Unacceptable, MDCAN Tells FG Centre Full, Over 25 Cases Under communique issued by the by the federal government in training, these it said would David-Chyddy Eleke association after its national order to enhance the funding stem the crave to seek medical Treatment in Awka

…Source says cases from Ebonyi were treated in ISTH, not Abakaliki Martins Ifijeh The Lassa Fever Isolation Ward in Irrua Specialist Teaching Hospital (ISTH), Edo State, is presently recording an over flow of patients with about 25 confirmed or suspected cases currently under treatment or observation at the ward.

A visit by THISDAY to the Lassa fever ward Tuesday showed that the hospital management has erected a makeshift tent outside the ward to accommodate the growing number of suspected or confirmed cases.

A staff who spoke to THISDAY on condition of anonymity because he was not authorised to speak on behalf of the hospital management said most of the cases were from Owo in Ondo State, Ebonyi, a handful from Edo State and some surrounding states.

She decried why the efforts made by the centre, especially on cases relating to Ebonyi State outbreak was being credited to the Abakaliki Virology Centre in Ebonyi State.

THISDAY’s visit showed that among those at the centre were a House Officer from Ebonyi State, who has been confirmed to be infected

by the virus, two nurses also from Ebonyi, who are said to be monitoring themselves for suspected cases, and a sister of the already infected House Officer, all from Ebonyi State.

“One of the two Ebonyi doctors who lost his live died here immediately he arrived.

The other died while on the way while being brought here.

“We read on papers that Ebonyi denied taking their patients to ISTH. Truth is, these cases from Ebonyi were all treated here. I don’t know why they are arrogating the efforts of ISTH to themselves.

If their centre is not functioning properly they should rather say it so that government can assist them, instead of denying bringing their residents here for treatment.

“As you can see, our isolation ward is full. New patients are being referred to the tent because of the overflow. So if we are making sacrifices to cater for these patients, those we are assisting (state governments) shouldn’t deny that we are making efforts,” the source stated.

She added that all the samples Ebonyi said they collected were all done in ISTH, and not their Virology Centre in Abakaliki.

WHO Donates 853 Motorcycles to Strengthen Disease Surveillance in Nigeria Senator Iroegbu in Abuja World Health Organisation (WHO) has donated 853 motorcycles to the Nigerian government to strengthen disease surveillance across the country.

The WHO Country Director, Dr. Wondimagegnehu Alemu, made the donation to the Minister of Health, Prof. Isaac Adewole in Abuja recently.

The motorcycles and other related items are to be distributed to the 36 states and FCT. Speaking during the donation, Alemu said that surveillance was key in disease control and eradication.

Alemu said that Disease Surveillance and Notification Officers (DSNOs) play a major role in surveillance at the field level through visits to communities and health facilities. They also facilitate timely investigation and response to outbreak of diseases where they occur.

He said it was in recognition of their role in disease control in the rural communities that the WHO in partnership with donor partners have provided the motorcycles to enhance surveillance system in Nigeria.

“You will agree with me that this group of professionals deserve to be provided with the most appropriate logistic to enhance their mobility across the country including the remotest parts of Nigeria,”

the WHO Country Director said.

Alemu called on the DSNOs to use the motorcycles for the purpose they were intended for and ensure good maintenance.

In his remarks, the Minister of Health, Prof. Isaac Adewole who appreciated WHO Country Director for the gesture said that disease surveillance was quite critical to public health maintenance and the donation signified that 2018 would be a good year for all Nigerians.

He said: “when we are able to detect and respond appropriately, we would be able to curtail the spread of diseases and maintain good health across the nation.”

He assured that the DSNOs would use the 853 motorcycles in an appropriate manner and in a way that would help to detect the outbreak of diseases.

The Minister of Federal Capital Territory, Alhaji Muhammad Musa Bello represented by the FCT, Secretary, Health and Human Services, Bar. Amanda Pam, assured the WHO Country Director and the Health Minister that the motorcycles allocated to the FCT would be distributed to the eight Area Councils for disease surveillance. This, he said would go a long way in checking diseases and bringing healthcare delivery to the door steps of every residence in FCT.

The Medical and Dental Consultants Association of Nigeria (MDCAN) has said that the one doctor to 4,000 persons ratio in Nigeria is highly unacceptable.

The group said the establishment of medical universities by the federal government would enhance the number of medical doctors trained in the country and also improve the health of Nigerians.

This was contained in a

executive council meeting which held in Awka last week.

National President of the association, Prof. Ngim Ngim who briefed journalists recently on the outcome of the NEC meeting said the acceptable ration was one doctor to 600 population, but the present ratio of one doctor to 4,000 persons was capable of negatively impacting on the healthcare delivery system in Nigeria.

“We recommend the establishment of medical universities

and capacity for undergraduate medical training and allied courses in the country.

“This will improve the doctor - population ratio and positively impact healthcare delivery in Nigeria. MDCAN is ready to liaise with the relevant agencies of government to work out the details of its implementation.”

It called on the federal government to also increase funding to the currently existing medical colleges in Nigeria to improve the facilities and quality of

tourism outside the country.

The group tasked the federal government on insecurity in parts of the country, while dwelling on the recent outbreak of Lassa fever. It called on the relevant agencies of the government to quickly take steps to contain the disease.

“Members of the public are called upon to institute measures to eradicate the rodents responsible for the transmission of the deadly virus.

L-R: World Health Organisation (WHO) Country Director, Dr. Wondimagegnehu Alemu and Minister of Health, Prof. Isaac Adewole, during the donation of 853 motorcycles by WHO to strengthen surveillance system in Nigeria, held in Abuja recently

Workers Vow to Shutdown Niger State, Roche Sign MoU Enugu Psychiatric Hospital to Fight Breast Cancer over Dispute with MD Christopher Isiguzo in Enugu The lingering industrial unrest at the Federal Neuropsychiatric Hospital, Enugu, assumed a new dimension Sunday as the workers asked the government to address the monumental crisis in the hospital within one week or have it shutdown.

The workers who are pitched against the hospital’s Medical Director, Dr. Jojo Onwukwe, alleged that the situation in the area had broken down irredeemably as there have been escalating rascality, highhandedness, corruption and abuse of civil service rules by the medical director.

In a letter by the University Graduates of Nursing Science Association, (UGONSA), signed by its President, Chief S.E.O Egwuenu and the Secretary, Goodluck Nshi, the workers asked the Minister of Health, Prof. Isaac Adewole to do the needful or the situation will degenerate.

According to the group, “the current situation in the hospital if not checked will result in a breach of peace and a breakdown of law and order.”

According the letter, peace would not return to the hospital without the immediate implementation of the report of a panel earlier sent to the hospital by the minister.

They also alleged that Dr. Onwukwe, had refused to enlist them in the Integrated Payroll Personnel Information System (IPPIS), owing to increasing number of ghost workers in the payroll.

The hospital has not known peace for over four years now, with the workers pitching themselves against the Managing Director, Dr. Onwuekwe, who is being accused of monumental fraud. The Joint Health Sector Union, JOHESU, had earlier issued a 21-day ultimatum to the management of the hospital over a litany of issues.

JOHESU’s ultimatum borders on withheld salaries and arrears from February 2017 till date; withheld promotion arrears, withheld teaching allowance and enrollment of the hospital into the Integrated Payroll Personnel Information System (IPPIS). The ultimatum was signed by Comrades Ozurumba Anthony, Onu Bank-Anthony, Sims Nwawgu, Ugwu Eric. A. Eze Mathew and Oduru Friday on behalf of the JOHESU affiliate bodies.

One week to the expiration of the ultimatum, another workers’ union, in a letter dated January 19, addressed to the Health Minister, has vowed to shut down the hospital if nothing was done to correct anomalies allegedly being perpetuated by the Medical Director, Dr. Jojo Onwukwe.

Martins Ifijeh The Niger State Government has signed a memorandum of understanding with Swiss multinational, Roche and Raise Foundation to provide high quality drugs and provide free treatment for breast cancer patients in the state.

Existing data shows that cancer is one of the leading causes of deaths among non-communicable diseases in Nigeria.

Breast and cervical cancer account for about 60 per cent of all cancer cases in the country, roughly six out of every 10, with breast cancer having the highest prevalence of 40 per cent with a mortality of 70 per cent.

Speaking to journalists at the MoU signing, Niger State Commissioner for Health, Dr. Mustapha Jubril said ‘‘this is the first cancer care strategy project in the state. This partnership is aimed at relieving the financial burden of treatment of breast and cervical cancer on patients through early detection and also to improve access to diagnosis and treatment in an effort to save lives.

“Over the next five years, the partnership with Roche is expected to increase awareness and early detection, improve access to standard of care treatment, funding for treatment and reduce the burden of women

cancers in the state.”

According to the Head, sub-Sahara Africa for Roche, Markus Gemuend, the decision to partner was easy, ‘‘we believe that improving healthcare is a shared responsibility and we are committed to playing our part.

The Niger State Government is equally committed and this partnership will ensure that our innovative medicines will reach the people who need them most.’’

Also speaking, the wife of the Governor of Niger State and Founder, Raise Foundation, Dr. Amina Abubakar-Bello said cancer care in Nigeria is disheartening because there are not enough treatment centres in the country. She said Raise Foundation has worked extensively in the state to create awareness and screening for women across the state.

The partnership is also expected to improve healthcare infrastructure and manpower in the state. Elaborating on the impact of the project, Jubril said “over the next five years, in addition to the awareness and screening programmes for the people, there will also be training and capacity building for critical stakeholders such as doctors, nurses, lab scientists, pharmacists and many others on cancer care for the purpose of sustainability and transfer of skills and technology.”

T H I S D AY THURSDAY, JANUARY 25, 2018

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INTERVIEW

Onanuga: We Will Deliver 75 World Class PHCs to Lagosians by May Dr. Olufemi Onanuga is the Special Adviser to Lagos State governor on Primary Health Care.

In this interview with Charles Ajunwa and Martins Ifijeh, he talked about the state’s drive to deliver a total of 75 world class PHCs to Lagosians by May 2018. He also spoke on the newly introduced Coastal Health Services, how the state plans to solve the scarcity of health workers in PHCs, among others there has been a serious compliance. Health workers are now coming to work early, closing when they are supposed to and they are doing their works without anybody monitoring them.

Because of that, we realised that the compliance level is very high. We will still continue our monitoring and we will not relent because if we stop, I’m sure things will go bad or worse than when we came in.

In August last year, the governor signed the release of about N1b for renovation of 20 PHCs in the state. Have these PHCs been delivered now?

Specifically, it wasn’t one billion naira, it was 905 million naira that was approved by His Excellency, Akinwunmi Ambode. We thought we were going to renovate the 20 PHCs, but we realised that there was no point doing renovation all alone, so we decided that we should renovate about 15 PHCs and use the remaining money to purchase medical equipment and furniture for primary healthcare centres.

Graciously, His Excellency has released 70 per cent of that approved amount, and work is seriously ongoing in the designated 15 PHCs. The equipment and furniture have been delivered.

So by the time they finish the renovation, they will be equipped and delivered.

When will these 15 PHCs be delivered?

We gave the contractors about six months because we want them to do a good job, so we are looking at May 2018. That means by May, we would have succeeded in delivering 75 world class PHCs to Lagosians.

Onanuga

If you deliver 75 world class PHCs by May, it means Lagos still has about 200 PHCs that require the same transformation. What should we expect before this year end?

That will depend on how much is being budgeted for capital expenditure in terms of renovation and equipping of PHCs. We will look at how funding is coming in and see how many more we can work on before the end of this year.

Once the monies are available, we won’t stop renovation and equipping of the PHCs. We must also get it clear that the 200 remaining are actually functioning. Not that they are not functioning, but we feel we should bring them up to world class level through renovation and purchasing of new medical equipment because those that have been there will somehow be obsolete. So we will replace old ones with new ones. Although, they are still functioning optimally, people still go there and get health services. We will continue to work on them in stages because we can’t finish them at once.

Fund is a limiting factor, there are so many sectors competing for funds. There are dearths of doctors, nurses and other health workers in the state. What are you doing to ensure there is increased numbers of health workers in PHCs? I want to correct that notion. When we talk of health workers, people always place emphasis on doctors alone. Health workers include; doctors, nurses, pharmacists, technicians and all. As much as we are renovating and equipping all the PHCs, we are also looking at times where we are going to employ people.

We have tabled this with the governor, and he graciously approved recruitment and employment of health workers. The governor has recently approved for the recruitment of a minimum of 245 doctors that will be spread across the state. Same for about 400 nurses, about 400 pharmacists, technicians, community health workers and several others, and the process is ongoing.

In August 2017, you hinted of the recruitment, and this is January. Why has the recruitment process slowed down?

When we apply for fund, the governor takes his time to look into it. He has prioritised it, and towards the end of last year, he gave us money for recruitment of our own workers and then we are about to start employing. Not that we have slowed down, we had to prioritise what we want to do. There are many areas looking, begging for funds which is not enough and can’t be enough in anywhere, so that’s what is

happening. It can’t slow down because Lagos doesn’t slow down.

When it comes to timeline, when are we expecting more health workers in our PHCs? In another one to two months, we would have added more hands to our workforce. We are not only concentrating on delivering world class PHCs, but also working on putting adequate personnel in place to offer health services to Lagosians.

In Ondo State, the TBAs are only trained for referral, while in Lagos they are trained to take deliveries. Why are you encouraging TBAs in Lagos, especially considering the fact that most maternal and newborn deaths occur with TBAs? If you look at it very well, you can’t compare the population of Ondo State to that of Lagos State. In Lagos, people come in from all over and the population here is enormous- Almost 23 million. We realised that the approach of Ondo State will be cumbersome in Lagos State because of the population. And we know we can’t do it alone, that is why we have encouraged to partner with the Traditional Birth Attendants (TBAs). And we thought if we train them and limit their activities to the training, and also monitor them to ensure that the engagement of the TBAs will reduce our maternal and infancy mortality, this will help.

Notwithstanding, we have realised that a lot of TBAs are not coming up. They have refused to register with us. And because they are not trained, those are the ones actually causing the havoc. And measures are being put in place to curtail the activities of such TBAs. In Lagos State, we have trained at least 1,500 TBAs that have registered with us. We have also ensured that these trained TBAs have standard operative procedures which we give to them and we monitor it. They are also registered with the TBA amnesty board in Lagos State. The governor himself after the training certified them to show that they are competent to do some of these deliveries. Despite that certification, we also encouraged them to as a matter of priority refer complicated cases to PHCs. I believe that it will work because whether we like it or not, it will be difficult to stop TBAs in Lagos State because the population is massive and many residents believe in TBAs. They are the ones the residents have been using and they get results from them. Like I know for a fact

that the majority of the TBAs are in Ikorodu areas, and those that are not registered are being worked on to come register and undergo training.

We are even willing to pay their allowances for coming down.

Do you have any idea of how many are yet to register in Lagos State?

We don’t have any idea because they are not coming forward. They stay in their rooms and perform these things and it’s not easy to get all of them. All we do is to continue our education and enlightenment for them to come out. The more they come, the more we train them.

Is there a working relationship between PHCs and TBAs in the various communities?

Yes. We have a community department in all PHCs where the community health officers liaise with TBAs and community members. There is no way you can do PHC service without community involvement because the community is the key ingredient of PHC. We also go to communities on our own for education, enlightenment, and immunisation, so there is no way you can be successful without community involvement.

Is there a way you encourage community members to use PHCs rather than use TBAs? Yes, we do public enlightenment and health education. We don’t discourage them not to go to the TBAs but we encourage them more to use the PHCs because we partner with them. We just must tell them that even if you go to the TBAs, they should look carefully to detect it’s a registered one. Part of the ways we encourage them to use PHCs is by providing them with insecticides, mosquito nets, delivery kits, free card, free ante natal, among other ways. But many of them still go to TBAs. So we try to support the TBAs because if we don’t, we will record more deaths because people have cultural belief in these TBAs. That is one of the reasons we are partnering with them.

In terms of maternal and newborn mortality, what has changed since you assumed office?

Maternal and child mortality has drastically reduced compared to when we came on board.

Information available suggest you and your team have stopped monitoring PHCs across the State. Why? We have not stopped monitoring PHCs, we only slowed down because we realised that

What new approach are you bringing to PHC this 2018?

We are doing a lot in the urban setting. But we realised we still have a lot to do in the rural and the riverine areas (coastal areas) of the state. So this year, we have decided to offer them health services. We have more than 800 communities in the riverine areas. We have a programme that we are working on now, which we tagged ‘Coastal Health Service’. This has been discussed with His Excellency and he has approved it and even approved advance money for the pilot phase.

The pilot study started towards the end of December and we gave it to an expert, Dr. Mabawondu, who is on it for the next three to four months in about 40 communities, including Oriba in Ekpe, Ikorodu area and other riverine areas. He has started on it and has ben briefing us on all the activities. After his assignments, he will provide a document which will serve as a guideline to carry out our duties. We have started in coastal area by making sure we build PHC in Takwa Bay, which is optimally functioning, we have nurses working there but we are still not satisfied with the way it is going on. If we are able to recruit, we will send some people there.

We will make sure that those 800 communities have the presence of government in terms of health services.

The pilot study will take that long because immunisation normally comes up every two weeks, so we go there and also provide health education, environmental sanitation, water sanitation, public enlightenment. On the water they drink, we will either give them boreholes or teach them to boil water. These are the little things we can educate them about because by the time we do that, disease burden will reduce.

Can you highlight some of the successes recorded since you became the Special Adviser to the governor on PHC? I cannot decide on that, it’s for the people to talk about our successes, from my commitment to them. Part of the campaign promises of the Governor Akinwunmi Ambode, is good and quality healthcare delivery in Lagos State irrespective of ethnicity or religion. And the feelers we are getting are positive. We have improved on what we met on ground in terms of PHC services. The previous administration did well but we are doing better now. We have actually moved forward. Generally, people are happier now. All the complaints we used to get have reduced.

There are still obsolete PHCs that need intervention. What are your plans to speed up the interventions?

I mentioned that the plans are there but we can only be limited by funding. Our plan is that these PHCs will be done in phases every year and we will ensure we improve on the process.

We appreciate journalists for putting us on our toes. It shows we are in this together. You have been correcting our mistakes by calling our attention to what needs to be fixed. The essence why we are here is to serve the people and the governor is very passionate when it comes to the people, he is a blessing to the state.

I want to believe that Lagosians are happier and healthier now.

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BUSINESS/MONEYGUIDE

BoI, Finance Ministry Sign Mou to Recover NERFUND’s N17.5bn Loan Ndubuisi Francis Ă“Ă˜ ĂŒĂ&#x;ÔË The Federal Ministry of Finance and the Bank of Industry (BoI), Wednesday signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) to recover an outstanding N17.5 billion loan being owed by customers of the Nigeria Economic Reconstruction Fund (NERFUND).

At the MoU signing ceremony in the Ministry of Finance was represented by its Permanent Secretary, Dr. Mahmoud IsaDutse while the BoI Managing Director, Mr. Olukayode Pitan stood in for his bank.

Pitan, who spoke shortly after the signing, said the bank would adopt all legal means available to recover the bad loans for the government. “Part of what we signed today is that BoI will continue to manage NERFUND. That means that those who are owing NERFUND and also outstanding facilities that have put NERFUND into trouble, BoI will recover and make sure those loans are collected. “This is to let people know, especially those owing NERFUND to begin to come

to the Bank of Industry for repayment. People took the money and refused to pay back, some had good reason but many did not. “The money to be recovered now is about N17.5bn and we will use all available means open to us legally to recover the money,� he said.

Pitan deplored the failure of people who borrowed money from government agencies to repay, adding that such practice was denying others who needed funds for their business the opportunity to raise the needed financing.

He said, “For us from Bank of Industry, we have to learn from NERFUND what not to do so that we do not also end up like NERFUND. “The idea many Nigerians have is that when you have a government institution like NERFUND, BoI, Nigeria Export-Import Bank, Bank of Agriculture that is giving out loans, they think that it’s a part of their national cake that is not meant to be repaid. “It’s when those who have taken that money repay that the banks can be in business

and lend to more Nigerians. “It’s even sad when you know that most of these loans were given at interest rates that are below market rate. So when government has gone out of its way to allocate money to ministries and agencies to help Nigerians and they are not been paid back, you are not doing government any favour.�

In his run remarks Dutse commended the bank for the intervention in NERFUND. He said: “We ve signed an agreement to formalise a relationship that will build between the Federal Ministry of Finance and the Bank of Industry and the National Economic Reconstruction Fund. “We had problems earlier on with NERFUND, serious industrial crisis between the staff and the management and we decided at some point to bring in the management team from the Bank of Industry to take over the management. “So far they ve done an excellent job and we also want the Bank of Industry to render some services to NERFUND.�

How Fidelity Bank Staff Absconded with N250m Depositor’s Money Chika Amanze-Nwachuku Full scale investigation into the N250million fraud rocking the Allen Avenue, Ikeja branch of Fidelity Bank Plc has commenced, with a view to ascertaining whether any other staff member was involved in the theft of about N250million belonging to a customer of the bank.

A staff of the bank now on the run was said to have used forged documents to secure approval to liquidate a fixed deposit account operated by the customer, whose identity was not immediately known.

It was gathered that the fraud was detected after the fraudster, said be one of the oldest staff members absconded. The bank was initially contacted that he had been kidnapped but only

to discover that he faked his own kidnap after perpetrating the fraud.

In the course of investigation, it was discovered that the documents purportedly issued by the customer did not emanate from her but were forged by the runaway staff.

THISDAY gathered that top management of the bank has queried the staff members that played one role or the other in the fraudulent transaction.

It was also gathered that the runaway staff might have fled the country soon after he collected the money as he was said to have bought forex from a bureau de change.

A top source at the bank, who confirmed the incident, attributed it to angst over what he described as “unfavourable policy by the bank on the

condition of service�.

He explained that the bank dumped payment of retirement benefits after it embraced the Contributory Pension Scheme (CPS), a development, which pitched the staff against the bank management.

However, another staff member who also confirmed the incident, debunked the allegation of unfavourable policy, insisting that Fidelity was not the only bank that embraced the CPS. When THISDAY contacted the bank’s corporate communication’s department, a staff attached to the department promised that the Divisional Head, Brand and Communications, Mr. Charles Aigbe will contact THISDAY on the matter.

But at the time of going to press, there was no official statement from the bank.

Adeosun

MARKET INDICATORS MONEY AND CREDIT STATISTICS Broad Money (M2)

21,851,454.31

-- Narrow Money (M1)

9,890,813.10

---- Currency Outside Banks

1,523,239.91

---- Demand Deposits

8,367,573.19

-- Quasi Money

11,960,641.22

Net Foreign Assets (NFA)

9,732,990.89

Net Domestic Assets(NDA)

12,118,463.42

-- Net Domestic Credit (NDC)

4,824,226.22

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

7,834,536.74

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

--3,010,310.52

---- Credit to Private Sector (CPS)

21,997,220.59

--Other Assets Net

--14,702,983.39

Reserve Money (Base Money)

5,486,804.65

--Currency in Circulation

1,868,735.07

--Banks Reserves

3,268,266.17 Ëž Ă™Ă&#x;ĂœĂ?Ă? Ě‹

Money Market Indicators (in Percentage) August 2017

Elumelu Seeks More Multilateral Organisations’ Support to Boost Entrepreneurship in Africa

Inter-Bank Call Rate

Obinna Chima The Chairman, United Bank for Africa (UBA) Plc, and Founder, Tony Elumelu Foundation (TEF), Mr. Tony Elumelu, has stressed the need for global organisations and multinational institutions to support the much-needed growth in the African continent; adding that ultimately, such growth will affect the world positively.

Elumelu, who pointed this out on the sidelines of the ongoing 2018 World Economic Forum (WEF) in Davos, Switzerland, said organisations must come together to provide solutions to key challenges negatively impacting African economies, especially with regards to power supply and infrastructural challenges which are the major issues that the economies have had to grapple with.

to electricity in Africa, it would help the world in a variety of ways.�

While noting that the private sector needs to get more involved, he cited the example of the achievements of the TEF over the past few years, which he said has begun to bear fruits, adding “We are beginning to see signs of the great things that these people are doing and they are making us proud. We have helped them realise their dreams and they are doing well.�

He commended organisations that had keyed into the TEF’s vision of empowering 10,000 African youths such as the International Red Cross Society, which according to him, had helped to create more opportunities for more Africans to benefit from the TEF’s entrepreneurship programmes.

26,821,446.81

---- Credit to Government (Net)

Month

Speaking specifically about the challenge of power supply on the continent, he said: “Under the Obama administration the Power Plan programme was initiated, which helped in a number of ways. However, now, we have a number of investors, like the Transcorp Power Plc, that is working hard to improve power in the continent in the 21st century. The truth is we have a new crop of investors who know and realise that it is important to have access to power to grow the continent, and our governments have keyed into this. “To this end, we would also continue to need support from World Bank, AfDB, and other organisations to support with the huge capital that is needed to boost that sector. We could also do with the support of America, because if we improve access

(MILLION NAIRA)

AUGUST 2017

22.63

Minimum Rediscount Rate (MRR) Monetary Policy Rate (MPR)

14.00

Treasury Bill Rate

13.35

Savings Deposit Rate

4.08

1 Month Deposit Rate

8.86

3 Months Deposit Rate

10.14

6 Months Deposit Rate

11.51

12 Months Deposit Rate

11.40

Prime Lending rate

17.69

Maximum Lending Rate

31.20

Ëž Ă™Ă˜Ă?ĂžĂ‹ĂœĂŁ ÙÖÓĂ?ĂŁ Ă‹ĂžĂ? Ě‹ ͯ͹Ϲ

OPEC DAILY BASKET PRICE AS AT TUESDAY JANUARY 23, 2018

The price of OPEC basket of fourteen crudes stood at $67.32 a barrel on Tuesday, compared with $66.89 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

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MARKET NEWS

Banking Stocks Lead Losers as Negative Sentiments Persist at Stock Market Goddy Egene and Nosa Alekhuogie The equities market extended its negative performance to the third day yesterday as more investors took profit. The market has been bearish since Monday on continuing profit taking after the market rose by over 17 per cent in the first two weeks of trading.

However, the Nigerian Stock Exchange (NSE) All-Share Index

(ASI) fell by 0.96 per cent to close at 43,963.40, while market capitalisation shed N143 billion to close at N1576 trillion. The decline is however, lower than the 1.16 per cent recorded the previous the day.

Also, the decline of yesterday has brought the year-to-date (YTD) growth to 15 per cent. The depreciation recorded in the share prices of GTBank, FBN Holdings, Access Bank, Zenith Bank and

P R I C E S MAIN BOARD

F O R

DEALS

ETI were mainly responsible for the loss.

According to analysts at Cordros Capital, the possibility of continued profit taking remains high.

“But that said, our theme on the market remains positive, on the back of favorable macro economic conditions,” they said.

Also commenting on the performance, analysts at FSDH Merchant Bank said market breadth and investor sentiments

S E C U R I T I E S

MARKET PRICE

QUANTITY TRADED

VALUE TRADED ( N )

remained weak as there was continued sell pressure that resulted in a number of stocks on offer “With the sustained profit taking recorded this week, a rebound in the market is likely as the outlook remains positive,” they added.

In all, 43 stocks declined while 11 appreciated. FCMB Group Plc led the price losers, shedding 9.7 per cent. Diamond Bank Plc trailed with 9.6 per cent, while

T R A D E D MAIN BOARD

A S

Fidelity Bank Plc went down by 9.5 per cent. Sterling Bank Plc and Transcorp Plc declined by 9.3 per cent.

Other top price gainers included: NPF Microfinance Bank Plc, Skye Bank Plc (9.0 each apiece); Wema Bank Plc (7.7 per cent); Unity Bank Plc (7.0 per cent).

On the positive side, May & Baker Nigeria Plc led the price gainers with 4.9 per cent, trailed

by Transexpress with 4.0 per cent.

O F

WAPIC Insurance Plc chalked up 3.6 per cent, just as Cement Company of Northern Nigeria Plc and Learn Africa Plc garnered 3.4 per cent, 2.1 per cent respectively.

Other top price gainers included: Nigerian Breweries Plc(2.0 per cent); UACN Property Development Company Plc (1.5 per cent); Vitafoam Nigeria Plc(1.3 per cent); PZ Cusson Plc(1.2 per cent); Lafarge Africa Plc (1.0 per cent).

1 9 / 0 1 / 2 0 1 8 DEALS

MARKET PRICE

QUANTITY TRADED

VALUE TRADED ( N)

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THURSDAY, JANUARY 25, 2018˾ T H I S D AY

INTERNATIONAL

email:foreigndesk@thisdaylive.com

US Pressures Turkey on Syria Push, Erdogan Defiant President Recep Tayyip Erdogan on Wednesday vowed to press Turkey’s offensive against a Kurdish militia in Syria until “the last

terrorist” was killed, as the US ramped up its concerns over the campaign, according to an AFP report.

Turkey on Saturday

Pope Says Serpent Temptation in Bible ‘First Fake News’ Pope Francis has denounced the “snake tactics” of those who spread fake news, saying the first case of misinformation is in the Bible when Eve is tempted by the serpent to eat the forbidden fruit, according to BBC. The episode showed the “dire consequences” that fake news can have, the Pope warned in a document.

Francis also said it led only to the spread of arrogance and hatred.

He urged social media users and journalists to unmask manipulative tactics that foment division.

The document The Truth Will Set You Free - Fake News and Journalism for Peace was issued ahead of the Catholic Church’s World

Communications Day on 13 May, and it was the first time the Pope has written on the topic.

It comes amid a debate on ways to contain the spread of fake news on social media platforms and how it may have influenced recent elections, including in the US in 2016.

“Spreading fake news can serve to advance specific goals, influence political decisions, and serve economic interests,” the Pope said.

Comparing it to the serpent’s message of temptation in the Bible, he added: “We need to unmask what could be called the ‘snake tactics’ used by those who disguise themselves in order to strike at any time and place.”

launched operation “Olive Branch” together with Syrian rebels and Turkish warplanes striking targets to oust the Kurdish People’s Protection Units (YPG) militia from its Afrin enclave in northern Syria.

Erdogan said the offensive was “continuing successfully”, adding that Syrian opposition fighters and Turkish forces were “step by step taking control of Afrin”.

“Until the last terrorist is neutralised, this operation will continue,” he vowed.

Ankara views the YPG as a terror group linked to the outlawed Kurdistan Workers’ Party (PKK) waging a three-decade insurgency inside Turkey and blacklisted as a terror organisation by Ankara and its Western allies.

But the YPG is still working closely with Washington against the Islamic State (IS)

extremist group in Syria, in defiance of Turkey’s warnings.

The YPG strongly denies it is a terror outfit.

There have been expressions of concern over Turkey’s action from its NATO allies, who fear the campaign will impede the fight against IS and harm efforts to bring peace to Syria after a nearly seven-year civil war.

US President Donald Trump is expected to raise

Washington’s fears with Erdogan in telephone talks later on Wednesday.

“It (the Turkish campaign) detracts from efforts to fight the Islamic State group,” said a senior US administration official.

Crucial is the attitude of Russia, which has a military presence in the area and a cordial relationship with the YPG but is also working with Turkey on a peace process.

US Seeks to Soothe Davos Jitters over ‘America First’ The United States insisted Wednesday it was not turning its back on the world as President Donald Trump prepared to sell his “America First” message to sceptical fellow leaders railing against protectionism at the Davos economic summit, AFP reported.

As Germany and France stepped up to defend a liberal world order, top US officials moved to reassure them that “America First” meant defending US interests but not going it alone.

“This is about an America

First agenda but America First does mean working with the rest of the world,” Treasury Secretary Steven Mnuchin told reporters at the gathering of heads of government, business tycoons, campaigners and celebrities.

“It just means that President Trump is looking out for American interests, no different than other leaders look out for their own,” he added.

In an address scheduled to close the forum on Friday, the protectionist Trump will

come face to face with the liberal elites of the Davos-set whom he ridiculed during his election campaign.

German Chancellor Angela Merkel stepped up to the defence of global free trade as business and political leaders braced for Trump’s arrival.

“We think that shutting ourselves off, isolating ourselves, will not lead us into a good future.

Protectionism is not the answer,” she said in a speech.

“Let us keep pace with the

best in the world and let us canvas for this multilateral approach.”

She shared the billing on Wednesday’s Davos schedule with French President Emmanuel Macron -- a former banker -- in a doubleact dubbed “Merkron” by various media.

A French presidential source said Macron would tout his own economic reforms and call for globalisation with more social justice, in his Davos speech scheduled later on Wednesday.

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NEWS

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

Six Killed in Plateau After Community Clash, Herdsmen Attack Seriki Adinoyi Ă“Ă˜ Ă™Ă?

A deadly clash yesterday broke out between natives and Fulani at Farandong village near Dasho in Daffo district of Bokkos Local Government Areas of Plateau State.

The clash came after suspected Fulani herders last Monday attacked three persons who were returning from a mining site in Rikwe Chongu village, Miango district of Bassa Local Government Area of the state.

The killings forced the state Commissioner of Police, Mr. Undie Jeremiah Adie, to summon a security meeting with stakeholders from Bassa, Riyom and Barkin Ladi Local Government Areas.

A source from the village said the clashes were sparked by land disputes between some natives and Fulani residents in the area.

Confirming the incident, state Police Public Relation Officer, Mr.

Terna Tyopev, said: “Yes, there was an incident that happened in Bokkos today (Wednesday) at about 10a.m. The Police Division in Bokkos received a distressed call that there was a problem in Dasho, a village in Daffo district, that there was a misunderstanding between a Fulani youth and a native youth where they were working in a block laying site.�

He said the native youths used one of the blocks and hit the Fulani boy on the head and he died immediately. “As a result, a woman and a native by the name, Victoria Sunday, about 25 years old, was shot and killed in her farm where she was working, in retaliation. “Another boy riding bicycle named, Moses (surname not yet known, also a native, was shot and killed. The village has been razed down by Fulani people.

And the three corpses have been

taken to Jos University Teaching Hospital (JUTH) for autopsy.

One suspect has been arrested, while investigations are ongoing,�

Tyopev said.

THISDAY gathered that the youths of the village have embarked on violent protest as security agents battle to control them.

Meanwhile, the state police commissioner has advised the stakeholders, including community leaders, traditional rulers, religious leaders, youth leaders, and representatives of farmers and herdsmen, from the three local government areas, to eschew violence and bitterness, and embrace peace. He also enjoined them to allow the past to go.

But the Irigwe youths from Bassa Local Government Area said Fulani have killed their kinsmen, and that they should stay away from their

communities for sometimes to allow them mourn their dead before they return to graze in the area.

The Fulani who initially disagreed to that, eventually agreed to steer clear of the area. But the CP however asked the Irigwe youths not to over-stretch the mourning period.

Also, a survivor of the Monday attack in Rikwe Chongu village, Mr.Sunday Samson, said the attackers used rifles to kill two and used machetes to kill the third person, who was also beheaded.

Confirming the incident, the state police spokesman, Tyopev, said the Commissioner of Police has deployed security personnel in the area to beef up security and restore normalcy.

The latest attack came after MACBAN issued a statement signed by Nura Abdullah to complain that cattle belonging

to its members had been stolen in the area, adding that such acts usually attract violence.

He also urged security operatives to ensure that the cattle are recovered.

The Irigwe Development Association (IDA) also issued a statement signed by Mr. Ive Gulu to dismiss MACBAN’s claim, describing it as a ploy by the herders to find a reason to carry out its sinister plan of attacking the community again.

Calling for vigilance, especially by the security agencies, Gulu said: “The attacks were iminent following the MACBAN’s statement. “But the police in the state said they have deployed the officer in charge of homicide to investigate the claims and prevent bloodshed.

Tyopev had said: “The CP has directed the officer in charge of homicide to take charge of

the case; to be supervised by the Deputy Commissioner in charge of Criminal Investigations Department and Intelligence. “Let’s not start throwing blames and wait for the investigation. It’s after that that we can say whether or not the claims are anything to go by. If we want to take their argument as anything, it will not take us anywhere. “Let’s just calm down and wait for investigations. It is important, so we don’t place the cart before the horse. If we begin to take sides, then what is the essence of the investigation?�

Late last year, attacks on over ten communities in the local government are left over 50 persons dead, with some community leaders in the area calling on government to exhibit sincerity and seriousness in ending the carnage.

NNPC Says It Earned $239m from Crude Sales in Nov Oil sustains rally after record tenth straight fall in US inventories Chineme Okafor Ă“Ă˜ ĂŒĂ&#x;ÔË The Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation (NNPC) yesterday said it earned $239.10 million from its sale of crude oil and gas in the month of November 2017.

It also said between November 2016 and November 2017, it sold crude oil and gas valued at $3.73 billion.

NNPC in a statement from its Group General Manager Public Affairs, Mr. Ndu Ughamadu, in Abuja explained that this was contained in the November 2017 edition of its monthly operations and financial report.

According to it, the November crude oil earning was 25.68 per cent lower than that of the previous month of October.

It said a breakdown of the transactions showed that crude oil export sales contributed $113.97 million or 47.7 per cent of the dollar transactions compared with $227.83 million contribution in the previous month, while the export gas sales amounted to $125.13 million during the period.

According to it, a total export receipt of $201.11 million was recorded in November 2017 under its US dollar payments to Joint Venture (JV) cost recovery and Federation Account, as receipt against $277.50 million paid in October, 2017.

In this regard, it noted: “Contribution from crude oil amounted to $147.39 million while gas and miscellaneous receipt stood at $ 50.17 million and $3.55 million respectively. Of the export receipts, $121.75 million was remitted to Federation Account while $56.56 million was remitted to fund the JV cost recovery for the month of November, 2017 to guarantee current and future production.� “A broader breakdown revealed that total export crude oil and gas receipt for the period of November, 2016 to November, 2017 stood at $3.73 billion. Out of which the sum of $2.60 billion was transferred to JV

Cash Call as first line charge and the balance of $0.85 billion was paid into Federation Account,� said the corporation.

On naira payments to the Federation Account, NNPC said domestic crude oil and gas receipt during the month amounted to N135.14 billion, consisting of N127.93 billion from domestic crude oil, and the sum of N7.21 billion from domestic gas. “Out of the naira receipt, the sum of N54.16 billion was transferred to Joint Venture Cash Call (JVCC) being a first line charge and to guarantee continuous flow of revenue stream to Federation Account. “On the receipt from net domestic crude oil and gas, NNPC transferred the sum of N54.16 billion into Federation Account and N80.98 billion to JV cash Call for the month under review. From November 2016 to November 2017, Federation, JV,and FG for debt repayment received the sum N865.59 billion, N726.11 billion and N31.65 billion respectively,� it added.

Meanwhile, oil prices rallied on heavy volume yesterday, boosted by a record 10th straight weekly decline in U.S. crude inventories, though reduced refining activity and rising production signaled U.S. stocks could rise in coming weeks.

U.S. crude inventories fell by 1.1 million barrels last week, short of expectations, but the 10-week streak of declines represents a record, according to U.S. Energy Information Administration (EIA) data going back to 1982. At 411.6 million barrels, stocks are at their lowest since February 2015.

The steady draw has triggered record buying by speculators, pushing oil benchmarks to three-year highs.

According to Reuters, Brent futures gained 57 cents to $70.53 a barrel., while U.S. West Texas Intermediate (WTI) futures settled up $1.14, or 1.8 percent, to $65.80. Both benchmarks were at their highest since December 2014.

More than 830,000 U.S. crude contracts changed hands, far exceeding the daily average of 618,000 contracts over the last 10 months.

GOOD JOB YOU HAVE DONE HERE

Senate President, Dr. Abubakar Bukola Saraki, receiving reports from the leader of the National Assembly Technical Advisory Committee on the review of the Companies and Allied Matters Act (CAMA) and the Investment and Securities Act (ISA), Ozofu Ogiemudia, in Abuja... yesterday.

El-Rufai Restructuring C’ttee to Submit Report to APC Today Onyebuchi Ezigbo Ă“Ă˜ ĂŒĂ&#x;ÔË The committee set up by the All Progressives Congress (APC) to seek the views of its members across the country on the agitations for the restructuring of the country will today submit its final report to the leaders of the party.

The committee was set up in July last year at the heat of the nationwide agitations for the fiscal reform and restructuring of the country.

According to the Publicity Unit of the party, the event which will take place by 1p.m. at the national secretariat of the APC, will have the Chairman of the committee and Governor of Kaduna State, Mallam Nasiru el-Rufai, present the report to the National Chairman of the party, Chief John Odigie-Oyegun.

The committee had in course of its assignment, held public hearings in the six geo-political zones of the country where it listened to presentations by its members on some of the issues in contention.

It also promised that it would analyse the reports of the

conferences held in 2005 and 2014 so as to pick what is relevant from them.

While speaking on the reason for setting up the committee, Oyegun had said it was in response to the genuine clamour by Nigerians for the country’s structural reforms.

But the party’s position seemed to be at variance with that of the President Muhammadu Buhari-led administration which has repeatedly denounced such clamour for the rejigging of the country’s existing structure, saying it was a none issue.

However, Oyegun had defended the party’s position, saying that the el-Rufai-led committee is to review the demands for the restructuring and to provide a framework that would guide the government in understanding the minds of the people.

Oyegun who spoke at the Catholic Bishops Conference taking place in Jalingo, Taraba State said: “APC has responded to the agitations for structural reforms of the country’s political architecture and to structure the debate for the

benefit of the sustained unity, peace and progress of the country by constituting a broad-based committee to provide a framework that will guide the process.�

According to him, the APC constitution, manifesto and campaign promises to distil the position of the party as regard the Nigerian federalism.

He said the recommendations of the committee would be reviewed by the party organs and a framework for the implementation of the accepted report would be presented to government.

The members of the APC Restructuring Committee are: elRufai (Chairman), Governors of Osun State, Rauf Aregbesola, Kano State, Dr. Abdullahi Umar Ganduje, Plateau State, Simon Lalong, Ogun State Governor, Ibikunle Amosun, former Governor of Edo State, Prof.

Oserheimen Osunbor and APC National Organising Secretary, Senator Osita Izunaso Other members are APC National Publicity Secretary, Mallam Bolaji Abdullahi and Senator Olubunmi Adetunmbi

(Secretary).

Also speaking on the constitution of the committee, APC spokesman, Abdullahi said, the reason for the setting up the committee on restructuring was to articulate what the APC meant by restructuring. “I have repeatedly mentioned it that when we mentioned setting up a committee on restructuring, what we are talking about is a committee that will articulate what the APC meant by restructuring. “We have realised for sometime now that when people talk about restructuring, we are no longer sure if they are talking about the same thing. People have said that the APC promised restructuring. So, we need to sit down as a party to develop a shared understanding of what we mean by restructuring in our manifesto. “So this committee that is set up which will be chaired by the governor of Kaduna State is mainly to define exactly whatAPC mean by restructuring so that every member will know what exactly what we mean. It is not a committee to set up modalities for restructuring.�

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THURSDAY, JANUARY 25, 2018˾ T H I S D AY

NEWSXTRA

Senate Advocates Impeachment of Non-performing President, Governors Obasanjo’s letter confirms nepotism in Buhari administration, says S’East caucus Damilola Oyedele ÓØ ÌßÔË The Senate yesterday advocated the impeachment of any president and governors who do not act in line with their constitutional mandates.

Senator Eyinnaya Abaribe (Abia PDP) said this while contributing to the debate on a bill seeking to prescribe punishments for acts and conducts that are undemocratic by elected officials and persons.

Expressing opposition to the bill, Abaribe argued that impeachment is already prescribed in the constitution, adding that there are further consequences for non performing officials at the polls.

“This is a very difficult bill to pass. Elections have consequences. When you choose in an election, you must be able to accept the consequence of that choice you have made.

Nigerians chose APC, they must live with the consequence of that. Nobody can wake up now and tell us that some people are undemocratic, we know that therefore but they are going to suffer the consequence of their misdeeds in office with another election.

“That means we actually do not need this bill to punish those that are undemocratic. The way to punish them is to make sure that they don’t come back to office. That is the only way and of course if you are in office and you commit a crime the consequence of the crime is also there, it is up to the executive to do the needful using the institutions that are available,” Abaribe added.

“The penalty is there in the constitution. If a president refuses to act, then impeach him. There is no other thing you need to do,” he added.

His position which elicited laughter from the lawmakers,

did not go down well with Senate Leader, Senator Ahmed Lawan, who cited a point of order to the effect that Abaribe has strayed away from the subject being debated.

Lawan accused Abaribe of casting aspersions on the government of the Federal Republic of Nigeria and the president.

Senate President Bukola Saraki agreed with Lawan.

Abaribe however cited a portion of the lead debate presented by Na’Allah who quoted former United States President, Richard Nixon, as saying ‘if you dodge from your responsibilities, you cannot escape the consequences.”

“What does the law say about consequences of dodging from your responsibility? I was simply explaining that. Let me withdraw that of the president and say any governor that leaves his responsibility should be impeached,” Abaribe said.

Meanwhile, the South-east Senate Caucus has said its fears on the manner of administration of Nigeria by President Muhammadu Buhari have been confirmed by former President Olusegun Obasanjo, particularly regarding the lopsided appointments.

The leader of the caucus, Abaribe, in a statement issued yesterday, said the caucus had issued several warnings on the nepotic appointments, but was largely ignored.

“What is happening? What former President Obasanjo said is what we have said and predicted long ago. No one should be surprised over what is happening or the shape of the political appointments made by President Buhari,” “To be fair to him, the president made himself clear during his state visit to the United States of America, with

his now unfortunate theory of 95 percent and 5 percent reward for support. The whole thing has come to bear negatively on the entire country and every body is now shouting but we predicted what is going on,” the statement read.

Abaribe said the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) may have deliberately chosen to run a government which alienates a sizeable portion of its people and promotes exclusivity, unlike the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) which ran an all inclusive government.

The statement read further in part:

“For any party, there should not be any political barrier or alienation of any constituent part, because after elections, the president is the president and father of all Nigerians irrespective of the political leaning,” “My hunch is that the appointments so far, which have surreptitiously thrown up the prevailing circumstance, have failed to encourage our people’s hunger and quest to build a nation state out of a heterogeneous Nigeria. The appointments, as they were, do not also support the effort to weave a more cohesive country

that would metamorphose into a nation where unity and love will prevail.”

“The founding fathers of our country had this in mind when the notion of ‘federal character’ was inscribed in the constitution and a commission created for that purpose. That a president of elder statesman status would willfully breach this fibre that holds this country together is highly regrettable.

“Well, my take is that ‘it is a Buhari country,’ it is the reality, so he can play around with his choice as his mind and conscience direct him. After all, he did not win election in the

South-east and South-south and yet he became president, therefore, the South should be orphaned for not voting for him.

Perhaps that is the stark reality that the people of the South in Nigeria should face.

“There is an idiom in Igbo language that says: “20, years or more is not eternity.” The Buhari government will also come to an end one day.

“Nonetheless, it could have been good and politically expedient if President Buhari sees himself as president of Nigeria, which is the hallmark of a statesman and not that of president of a section of the country.”

DEFENDING 2018 BUDGET

R-L: Chairman, Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), Prof. Mahmood Yakubu; National Commissioners, Prof. Okechukwu Ibeanu; and Prof. Anthonia Simbine when they appeared before the Senate Committee on INEC to defend their 2018 budget in Abuja. .... yesterday

$3.3bn Total’s Egina FPSO Arrives Nigeria Ejiofor Alike and Eromosele Abiodun Nigeria’s oil and gas industry yesterday recorded another milestone as the $3.3 billion Floating Production Storage Offloading (FPSO) unit for the 200,000 barrels per day capacity Egina Deepwater oilfield arrived the country from South Korea.

The Egina oilfield, which is being developed at the cost of $16 billion, would come on stream at the end of 2018.

The FPSO, which was built for Total Upstream Nigeria Limited, (TUPNI) by Samsung Heavy Industries (SHI), sailed away from the quay side at Samsung Yard in Geoje, South Korea, on October 31, 2017, on its voyage to Nigeria.

The Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation (NNPC), Total Upstream Nigeria Limited, (TUPNI) and other partners in the Egina project - CNOOC, SAPETRO and PETROBRAS, welcomed the FPSO, which berthed at the newly built 500-metre FPSO integration quayside at the Samsung Yard

(SHI-MCI Yard), at the LADOL Free Zone in Lagos.

Speaking during the arrival ceremony, the Managing Director of Total E & P, Mr. Nicholas Terraz, said the six locally fabricated modules would be integrated into the FPSO at the Samsung Yard over the next six months before the FPSO sails away to the Egina field, adding that the local integration of the FPSO is a first for Nigeria and Africa.

He said with a length of 330 metres, the Egina FPSO is the largest FPSO ever installed in Nigeria and the largest FPSO built by the Total Group worldwide.

According to him, the integration of the six locally fabricated topside modules at the SHI-MCI Yard before its final sail-away to the Egina field is a game changer as far as the execution of deep offshore oil and gas projects in the country is concerned.

According to him, it is also a remarkable achievement in local content development in Nigeria.

“Being the first project to be launched after the enactment of the Nigerian Oil and Gas Industry Content Development Act in 2010, Egina is advancing Nigerian Content to record levels and has by far the highest quantum of local content completed for any oil & gas project in Nigeria, but also for Total’s projects worldwide,” Terraz said.

Terraz added that several technological feats have been recorded by the various entities involved in the Egina project.

According to him, Egina is the deepest offshore development carried out so far in Nigeria, with water depths over 1,500 metres.

He stated that the Egina operations will generate significant activities for local contractors, in various sectors and continue to provide avenues for the training and development of Nigerians in various domains.

In her speech, the Managing Director of the Nigerian Ports Authority (NPA), Hadiza Bala-Usman stated that the arrival of the FPOS to Lagos

has vindicated the federal government’s liberalisation policy, adding that the NPA remains committed to ensuring that operators compete favourably.

“The industry has been liberalised; I believe we are all familiar with the monopoly around the oil and gas terminals.

So for the FPSO to come to Lagos today shows that any investor can take any vessel to any oil and gas to any terminal in the country. Every terminal is free to receive oil and gas cargo and any FPSO and that enable all investors to have the comfort that there is no specific location that is designated for that purpose,” she said.

“Today we se have seen the justification for liberalization whereby you can take any oil and gas vessel to any location in the country. All terminal operators need to compete and the NPA seeks to ensure that there is a level playing field for everybody to compete favourably as supposed to having a monopoly which

stifles investors by insisting on using certain terminals that might not provide afavourable financial position,” she added.

The Egina field was discovered

by TUPNI in 2003 within the Oil Mining License (OML) 130, some 200 kilometres south of Port Harcourt, Rivers State.

Samsung Heavy Industries had won the contract for the building of the FPSO at the cost of $3.3 billion after a competitive bidding process.

As a commitment to building local capacity and ensuring technology transfer, Samsung Heavy Industries Nigeria Limited together with its joint venture partner established SHI-MCI FZE (SHI-MCI) as a joint venture entity.

THISDAY gathered that the SHI-MCI facility, located at Tarkwa Bay, is West Africa’s first fabrication and integration yard and is on a land mass spanning 121,000m2and has a 502 metre long deep quay wall that is the largest in Africa.

Six out of the 18 modules of the Egina FPSO were

fabricated in Nigeria which is a first time achievement for the country.

With state of the art equipment and technology know-how, SHI-MCI has the capacity to fabricate 10,000 metric tonnes and is recording high productivity at an early stage of its operations due principally to the influx of Samsung’s technical expertise which has greatly aided speedy technology transfer.

Samsung invested over $300 million for the construction of the fabrication yard and through SHI-MCI, has committed to technology transfer and training of local capacity in the field of shipbuilding and offshore plant manufacturing technologies.

The Egina project has set the bar very high in terms of compliance with Local Content laws with over 1,000 Nigerians employed in various capacities.

The arrival of the Egina FPSO in Nigeria is a huge milestone towards the completion of the Egina Project and eventual recovery of first oil.

THURSDAY, JANUARY 25, 2018˾ T H I S D AY

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IRS Chairman, Isyaku Rabiu, Obe Reject Alleged NIM Membership The Chairman of IRS Group, Alhaji Rabiu Isyaku Rabiu, and a legal practitioner/civil society activist, Mrs. Ayo Obe, have disowned their alleged membership of the Nigeria Intervention Movement (NIM), a party formed by some Nigerian political and human rights activists with an aim to partake in the 2019 general election.

In their separate statements made available to journalists yesterday, Rabiu and Obe said they never attended any meeting of NIM and were never contacted before they were allegedly appointed into any position.

Rabiu, Chairman of IRS, described the information that he was the Deputy National Chairman of NIM as misleading and a misrepresentation of his position regarding political activities in the country.

He further explained that the publication and said appointment were done in error as his nonpartisan status on general political activities in the country fuses with

his vision to build bridges of love, understanding, peace and security, unity and trust, service, sacrifice, patriotism and development across the country.

Part of Rabiu statement read: “While it is true that in the course of my discussions and interactions with people of like minds in Nigeria at different fora, I (like many other well-meaning Nigerians who see this as a prerequisite for a great Nigeria) subscribe to the idea of encouraging very large youth population and pressure groups that will promote peace and unity in Nigeria and also serve as a platform to fight corruption and ensure good governance by the political class, I was invited to join the group NIM on the understanding that it was going to be a pressure group that supports the above and vision. At no time did I attend any meeting of the group where it was discussed and agreed that I was to serve as the Deputy National Chairman of the movement or that the movement was going to be a

political party or association that will partake in politics.

“In order to avoid any misleading information or misrepresentation of my position regarding general political activities in Nigeria, I wish to state categorically as follows: That the said appointment and publication was not known to me and a grave mistake by NIM for which they have expressly apologised to me.

“That I maintain a nonpartisan status as it suites my vision of building bridges of love and understanding, peace and security, unity and trust, service, sacrifice, patriotism and development across all sections of Nigeria and that I remain committed to the various

groups and organisations, set up by me and by others and to which I am associated with.

These group must have as their focal points good governance, true democracy that is anchored on credible elections, the training and entrenchment of good character and leadership traits for our youth, respect and value for the status of citizenship and the ultimate objective of the welfare and well-being of the generality of Nigerians.

“That while wishing all political parties and associations well, I maintain a non-partisan status and will appeal for an appreciation of this right that I am entitled as fundamental,” the statement concluded.

On her part, Mrs. Obe said

she didn’t subscribe to the use of her name and photograph in promoting the group, noting that her contact was added to the social media platform without her consent.

According to her, “I have not taken part in any of its social media discussions, I have not physically attended any NIM meetings, and I have not offered myself for appointment, election or selection into any of its offices or committees.

Despite this, my name and/ or picture have been circulated on at least three occasions as having some position, or having been appointed to committees of the NIM. “Now, as more and more people have continued to ask

me questions about NIM which I am neither able nor inclined to answer on its behalf, it seems clear that it is only the messages associating me with NIM that have reached, and remained with, the wider public. It is therefore incumbent on me to make it clear that I am not a member of NIM. Obe welcomed efforts to present the electorate with different ways to approach politics in the country but said: “This clarification should not be taken as criticism that a group of Nigerians have taken it upon themselves to offer something new in the form of NIM. I wish the group well in its endeavours.

But I am not one of its members, officers or supporters.”

NNPC: Petrol Scarcity Pushes Nigeria’s Daily Consumption to 55m Litres Says cross-border petrol smugglers are disrupting its efforts to end shortages Chineme Okafor ÓØ ÌßÔË Nigeria’s daily petrol consumption has gone up to 55 million litres from the 35 million litres that it used to be because according to the Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation (NNPC), a syndicate of cross-border smugglers are now taking advantage of the current scarcity experienced in the country.

The NNPC in a statement from its Group General Manager, Public Affairs, Mr. Ndu Ughamadu, yesterday in Abuja also explained that at the moment, its crude oil for product swap programme - the Direct Sales Direct Purchases (DSDP)- was under pressure and unable to satisfy this increased petrol consumption because it is originally programmed to meet the 35 million litres daily consumption level and not the new 55 million litres.

The statement quoted NNPC’s Group Managing Director, Dr. Maikanti Baru, to have said these at a session with the Joint National Assembly Committee on Petroleum Downstream, where he reportedly made a detailed presentation on the current scarcity.

Baru raised the alarm over what he said was a sustained nefarious activities of some cross-border fuel smuggling syndicates and hoarders which he noted have so far impeded efforts by the corporation to sanitise the fuel supply and distribution matrix across the country.

He told the committee that if the activities of the fuel truck diverters and smugglers were left unchecked, it would be absolutely difficult to guarantee

round-the-clock availability of petrol throughout the country due to his claims of massive leakages wrought on the fuel supply and distribution network by the smugglers.

“The sudden and unnatural shock in fuel consumption to record levels has overstretched the DSDP crude oil for product supply arrangement which was originally based on 35 million per day petrol consumption pattern,” Baru, said.

He stated that with the current unprecedented average daily fuel evacuation of 55 million litres since December 1, 2017, to date, it was imperative for the security agencies to closein on the smuggling syndicates which were cashing in on the petrol price differentials between Nigeria and neighbouring countries to make illicit profit.

Baru also explained that apart from straining the ability of NNPC to sustain the prevailing 100 per cent petrol importation in the face of increasing cost, the current situation was equally impacting negatively on NNPC’s resources for servicing Joint Venture CashCall and other obligations.

He said to sustain adequate supply of petroleum products and national energy security, there was the need for the federal government to provide flush volumes in January and March 2018 as well as create enabling environment for other oil marketing companies to participate in the importation of petroleum products.

DIPLOMATIC VISIT

Yobe State Governor, Ibrahim Gaidam (left), in a handshake with the United States Ambassador to Nigeria, Mr. Stuart Symington, when the ambassador visited him at the Yobe Governor’s Lodge in Abuja.....yesterday

Voter Registration to End Early December, Says INEC Deploy new card readers for Ekiti polls Onyebuchi Ezigbo ËØÎ Damilola Oyedele ÓØ ÌßÔË The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has said the ongoing Continuous Voter Registration (CVR) will be temporarily suspended in the second week of December to allow for the conduct of the general election starting on February 19, 2019.

In a statement issued yesterday by the National Commissioner and Chairman, Information and Voter Education Committee (IVEC), Prince Solomon Soyebi, the commission said so far, it has registered over four million new voters under the CVR exercise.

The CVR exercise commenced on April 27, 2017 across the country.

However, the commission said going by the provisions of Section 9 (5) of the Electoral Act (as amended), the CVR would be temporarily suspended 60 days to the commencement of the next general election

scheduled for February 2019.

It said the exercise would resume after the conclusion of the elections.

“The commission wishes to assure all eligible Nigerians that the CVR exercise is designed to continue indefinitely as envisaged by the Electoral Act 2010 (as amended).

“The commission hereby encourages all eligible Nigerians to register at our offices in all local government headquarters and other officially designated areas across the country between 9a.m. and 3p.m., Monday to Friday, excluding public holidays. Full information about the designated areas can be obtained from our state offices,” it said.

INEC said the exercise was intended to afford all eligible Nigerians, 18 years and above who did not register in previous exercises the opportunity to do so at their convenience.

According to the INEC statement, “So far, over four

million Nigerians have registered across the country”.

In a related development, INEC has disclosed that it would deploy new card readers for the upcoming governorship elections in Ekiti State later this year.

The Chairman of the electoral body, Prof. Mahmood Yakubu, said yesterday when he appeared before the Senate Committee on INEC, to defend the organisation’s 2018 budget estimates, where he added that the 85 staff, died of natural and unnatural causes in the outgone 2017.

“We ordered our ballot boxes in 2017 which cost N1.4 billion, we have been using same ballot boxes , INEC will no longer rely on other states for ballot boxes. So new ballot boxes will be used for 2019 general elections,” he said.

“We have been using same card readers but we are ordered for more card readers,” Mahmood added.

The INEC boss said the

organisation is yet to conclude on a budget estimate for the 2019 general elections particularly as the National Assembly is still soldiering amendments to the Electoral Act of 2010.

“It is provisions of the amendment to 2010 electoral act after passage by the National Assembly that will show the commission how elections at primary level by the political parties would be conducted and monetary cost that would entail on the part of INEC, let alone the general elections,” the INEC boss said.

Speaking on the 85 deaths of staff recorded in 2017, Mahmood said the intense pressure which several of the workers are subjected to due to the nature of the job, led to high blood pressure for several of them, who also succumbed to heart attacks.

He made the explanation while defending the budget estimate for a sick bay at the national headquarters in Abuja

THURSDAY, JANUARY 25, 2018˾ T H I S D AY

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Lassa Fever Spreads to 10 States, Kills 16 People 107 suspected cases recorded in 2018 NCDC activates emergency operation centre Senator Iroegbu ÓØ ÌßÔË The Nigerian Centre for Disease Control (NCDC) has confirmed the spread of Lassa fever in 10 states across the country with 107 suspected cases and 16 deaths recorded so far in 2018.

The Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of NCDC, Dr. Chikwe Ihekweazu, in a statement yesterday said following the increasing number of Lassa fever cases reported, the Centre has activated its Emergency Operations Centre (EOC) to

coordinate the response to the outbreak on behalf of the Ministry of Health.

Ihekweazu said the EOC has deployed Rapid Response Teams (RRTs) to the most affected states-Ebonyi, Ondo and Edo. According to him, the RRTs are supporting the states in response coordination, contact tracing, case management, risk communication and strengthening infection prevention and control practices.

He said the emergency supplies have also been sent to

FG Releases $1m for Free Distribution of Contraceptives to Nigerians N10.5 billion for the repair of Hadejia-Nguru road, N14.5bn for Kano-Jigawa irrigation scheme Omololu Ogunmade ÓØ ÌßÔË The federal government yesterday said it had released $1 million for the delivery of contraceptives to enhance quality family planning among Nigerians.

The Minister of Health, Professor Isaac Adewole, who made the disclosure at the end of yesterday’s FEC meeting, said procurement for the implementation of the plan led by a committee chaired by a director in the ministry had equally been secured.

The minister who highlighted the pursuits of the Ministry of Health so far, said the ministry had submitted nine proposals which had equally been approved by the council since 2016.

According to him, following a presidential approval of the joint venture agreement between the federal government and May and Baker for the production of local vaccines, a board had been constituted on January 19 to oversee the venture and consequently, Nigeria will

begin to produce its vaccines within the next two years.

Disclosing that the government is fine-tuning arrangements for the enrollment of 320,000 members of the National Youths Service Corps (NYSC) for National Health Insurance Scheme yearly, Adewole also said the bill seeking the establishment of National Centre for Disease Control (NCDC) to help in tracking diseases has passed second reading in the National Assembly The council also approved N14.5 billion for the completion of Gari irrigation projects meant to serve Kano and Jigawa States, which he said had been abandoned since 2000 after it was over 50 per cent completed.

According to the Minister of Water Resources, Suleiman Adamu, the project is one of the 116 abandoned projects inherited by the ministry and is among the top priority projects of the government because of its capacity to supply to serve 2,000 hectares.

Nigeria Must Do What You are Doing on Security, US Ambassador Tells Gaidam The United States Ambassador to Nigeria Mr. Stuart Symington, has said in order for security to improve around the country, other states must work to support the work of security agencies just as Governor Ibrahim Gaidam of Yobe State is doing.

The ambassador spoke yesterday when he visited Gaidam at Yobe Governor’s Lodge in Asokoro, Abuja, yesterday.

Symington said support by the states to the federal government is critical in ensuring and strengthening security in the country.

“Governor what I want to say is that the response you made using state resources to support

the work of the security forces is exactly what has to happen in Nigeria as a whole and I want to congratulate you and applaud you for it. The challenges that Nigeria faces are too great to be resolved by the federal government alone. It needs the leadership and the support of every state (government) and the leadership and support of people throughout the country.

So, I just want to congratulate for your effort,” the ambassador said.

Symington who discussed a range of issues of mutual interest with the Yobe State governor, assured him that the US Embassy in Nigeria would partner the state government in various areas of development.

treatment centres in all affected states.

Ihekweazu said: “Since the beginning of 2018, a total number of 107 suspected Lassa fever cases have been recorded in 10 states-Edo, Ondo, Bauchi, Nasarawa, Ebonyi, Anambra, Benue, Kogi, Imo and Lagos.

“As at January 1, 2018, the total number of confirmed cases is 61, with 16 deaths recorded.

Ten health care workers have been infected in four states (Ebonyi - 7, Nasarawa -1, Kogi -1 and Benue -1) with three deaths in Ebonyi State.”

Speaking further, the NCDC boss said the Centre is collaborating with the World Health Organisation (WHO), Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development, Irrua Specialist Teaching Hospital, African Field Epidemiology Network, United States Centres

for Disease Control, University of Maryland Baltimore (UMB), Alliance for International Medical Action (ALIMA) and other agencies in supporting the response in the affected states.

He noted that Lassa fever is an acute viral hemorrhagic illness, transmitted to humans through contact with food or household items contaminated by infected rodents.

Ihekweazu explained that person-to-person transmission can also occur, particularly in hospital environment in the absence of adequate infection control measures.

According to the NCDC boss, health care workers in health facilities are particularly at risk of contracting the disease, especially where infection prevention and control procedures are not strictly adhered to. He however, stated that Lassa fever can be

prevented through practicing good personal hygiene and proper environmental sanitation.

Preventive measures, according to him, “include storing grain and other foodstuffs in rodent-proof containers, disposing of garbage far from the home, maintaining clean households and other measures to discourage rodents from entering homes.

“Hand washing should be practiced frequently. Health care workers are again reminded that Lassa fever presents initially like any other disease causing a febrile illness such as malaria, and are advised to practice standard precautions at all times, maintaining a high index of suspicion. Rapid Diagnostic Test (RDT) must be applied to all suspected cases of malaria.

When the RDT is negative, other causes of febrile illness

including Lassa fever should be considered.

“Accurate diagnosis and prompt treatment increase the chances of survival. Family members who are providing care for patients with Lassa fever should take extra caution.”

In addition, Ihekweazu encouraged the states to ensure safe and dignified burial practices for patients who die from Lassa fever.

To this end, he said the National Guidelines for Infection Prevention and Control as well as Lassa fever case management has been developed, disseminated to states and are available on the NCDC website for download He said NCDC remains committed to supporting all states’ public health teams to prevent and respond to public health threats.

CONSULTATIVE VISIT

Former Vice President, Alhaji Atiku Abubakar (left), and Ekiti State Governor, Ayodele Fayose, during the former vice president’s visit to Ekiti State.....yesterday

NCC Establishes Emergency Call Centre in Kaduna Announces 112 as national emergency call code John Shiklam ÓØ ËÎßØË The Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) has established an Emergency Communication Centre (ECC) in Kaduna to ensure quick response to emergency calls.

The commission also announced 112 as the new national emergency code for Nigeria.

Speaking at the end of a dispatcher training for emergency response agencies, organised by Four D Associates Limited in collaboration with the commission, Bashir Idris, Executive Director in charge of projects at the NCC, said the pilot project is a federal government initiative to address emergency situations.

He noted that “some of the emergency numbers of the police are eleven digits numbers and it is difficult for people to

remember such numbers in times of emergency.

“You are aware of the 911, Nigeria deserves a three digit number. We have resolved for 112 to be our national emergency code number that would be used to call from any part of the country, depending on where the response units are.

“In Kaduna State, we have just conducted training for those who are going to manage the centre.

Anybody in an emergency situation, can call 112, it is an easy number to remember.

“It does not matter whether you have airtime on your phone or not, it is toll free. When you call 112, it will be picked up at the centre and transmitted to the relevant agency. If it is a fire incident; it will be transmitted to the fire service station in Kaduna,” he said.

Idris explained that all distressed calls to the centre would be routed to the relevant

agencies concerned for prompt respond.

He said if it is issue that relates to road safety, the call would be transmitted to the agency concerned for prompt action.

“We have equipment that will enable us have 24 hour power supply. We have two standby generators, the question of the centre running down will not arise” he said.

Also speaking, Executive Secretary of the Kaduna State Emergency Management Agency (SEMA), Mr. Ben Kure, said with the establishment of the centre and the new emergency code, insurgents, armed robbers and kidnappers would have no hiding place.

“It means, upon receiving information about any emergency, we would be reached within a twinkling of an eye and the response time would be swift.

“It is going to cover the 23

local government areas because we have been given the desktop that have been programmed to respond to the national code 112.

“The would be no issue of network problems because they are highly connected to communication system.

“We will keep on training our personal to embrace the technologies,” Kure said.

Earlier in address rounding up the training, Managing Director of Four D Limited, Mr. Okey Ikpe, said emergency response agencies that participated in the training include the State Emergency Management Agency (SEMA), Nigerian Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), Nigerian police, Nigerian Army, Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC), fire service, army and National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) to effectively handle different types of emergencies.

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THURSDAY, JANUARY 25,2018˾ T H I S D AY

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Ogbeha: Obasanjo’s Letter, a Wake-up Call for Followership House whip tags ex-president enemy of democracy over ‘unpatriotic’ comments Segun James ÓØ ËÑÙÝ ËØÎ James Emejo ÓØ ÌßÔË Senator Tunde Ogheha has said that the letter written by former-President Olusegun Obasanjo to President Muhammadu Buhari on the state of the nation and the president’s stewardship in the last three years is a clear indication that the followership in the country has woken up to its responsibility of calling the leadership to question.

But the Chief Whip of the House of Representatives, Hon. Alhassan Ado Doguwa, chastised Obasanjo over his recent comments against President Buhari’s possible ambition to seek re-election in 2019.

Ogbeha spoke at a symposium on ‘Followership: An Antidote to a Defective Leadership,’ organised by

the Venerable Henry Johnson Foundation for Theology and Social Transformation at the Bishop Adelakun Howells Memorial Church in Lagos yesterday.

He said Obasanjo’s action was apt in that until now, the followership has never held the leadership accountable for their deeds and misdeeds.

He said unlike in the military or the clergy where the leadership is defined by a rigid system, political leadership is transient in that a leader today can be a follower tomorrow.

He, however, insisted that “The followership gets the leadership it wants,” adding that followers must hold their leaders accountable.

He also expressed regret that the followership had been compromised, a situation which he said, made it difficult to have square pegs in square

Saraki Pledges Quick Passage of CAMA, ISA Bills Senate President, Dr. Abubakar Bukola Saraki, yesterday reiterated the commitment of the 8th National Assembly to swiftly consider and pass required amendments to the Companies and Allied Matters Act (CAMA) and the Investment and Securities Act (ISA).

Saraki, according to a statement by his Chief Press Secretary, Sanni Onogu, made the remarks when the Technical Advisory Committee (TAC) on CAMA and ISA led by Ozofu Ogiemudia presented reports on the two acts to the President of the Senate in Abuja.

He stated that the objectives of the amendment is to place the country in a position that will be competitive and attract investments.

He said: “We at the eigth National Assembly has made this a priority to look at what we call our economic priority bills. These are the last two that form the core of our mandate and our promise to Nigerians.

“I am so excited that we made the promise to Nigerians at the beginning of the 8th Senate and today we have seen the completion of the work. To me, this is a great achievement.

“I am very confident that if we pass these two bills, they will significantly help in making our country attractive for investment. And if you look at the core issues affecting the country today, it all comes back to the issues about the economy.

“If we can get the economy right, create jobs for our youth, create investment and empower people, we will be able to significantly reduce all the areas of friction.

“So your contributions goes beyond just these two bills as it is a contribution to the development and social stability of the country. On our part, we will work to get them passed quickly in both chambers,” he said.

Saraki thanked the members of the TAC for working on the two important Acts which are at the heart of business in the country and producing the reports.

“Let me thank you for the thorough job and the contributions that you have made to the country,” Saraki said. “These two bills are so important to us and I am sure that when the history is written your contribution will definitely be noted significantly on making Nigeria a hub for doing business and promoting investment.”

Earlier, the leader of the National Assembly TAC on CAMA and ISA, Ozofu Ogiemudia, stated that both acts are significant in that they set the frameworks for companies in the country and the Nigerian Capital Market, “which includes one of the most active and attractive stock exchanges on the continent.”

She noted that both acts, which are strategically important, needed to be updated given the changes in technology and society the worldover.

She said: “In the last 28 years, CAMA has existed without any major amendment. In the case of the ISA, it has been in existence for 10 years now. Accordingly the technical advisory committee has produced and humbly submits to the Senate for consideration two repeal and reenactment bills in respect of CAMA and the ISA. “We are confident that these bills will further the overriding objectives of this government to make the regulatory framework for doing business easier for Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs) and to ease the process for compliance by businesses, thereby elevating Nigeria to the coveted position of an investment hub in the continent,” she stated.

holes.

Speaking earlier, the Chairman of the event and a former Nigerian High Commissioner to the United Kingdom, Dr. Christopher Kolade, expressed regret that the Nigerian constitution did not make experience a requirement for those seeking political leadership.

Kolade said the followership in any system must be proactive for the leadership to succeed.

Also speaking, the former deputy governor of Lagos State, Mrs. Sarah Sosan, insisted that followership must not only be critical but be ready to take responsibility and must remain focused.

According to her, many leaders just go about doing whatever they want but a responsible followership could call them to order by letting them know the true situation of things.

Also speaking, the former Vice Chancellor of the University of Lagos, Prof.

Oye Ibidapo-Obe, lamented that most leaders ‘are up there not knowing what is happening below them.’

He said as vice chancellor,

he had to evolve a strategy to keep the trouble makers in check, adding that this helped to ensure that his term as the head of the university was crisis-free.

Meanwhile, the Chief Whip of the House of Representatives, Doguwa, yesterday chastised Obasanjo over his recent comments against President Buhari’s possible ambition to seek re-election in 2019.

In his personal response to Obasanjo’s letter to Buhari, Doguwa accused the former president of trying to be a stumbling block against the popular desire of Nigerians to give Buhari a second term to rule the country.

He said the Obasanjo lacks the moral and political credibility “to even speak in the way he is doing on political affairs of our country,” adding that “After all, a man who was involved in all sort of corruption issues in his administration and indeed his unpopular bid to violate our respected constitution by wanting to take a third term is not in any way a credible democratic voice to count on.”

The lawmaker, who is the leader of the North West Caucus in the lower chamber, however,

insisted that his comments were entirely his personal opinion on Obasanjo and not that of the House of his caucus.

Addressing journalists in Abuja, he urged Nigerians to dismiss the “destructive comments” made by the former president as baseless.

He said: “Nigerians should consider him as a mere confusionist, mischievous and an enemy of true democracy in Nigeria as he has always been. “ He said: “It’s also my candid opinion that all well meaning Nigerians are impressed by the good works of President Buhari and therefore, yearn that Mr. President should answer this clarion call to accept to run for the second term by 2019.

“While of course, we must appreciate and acknowledge the health challenge of Mr. President which is naturally human, but it’s my sincere belief that Mr. President’s health has significantly improved and therefore, has the physical and mental capacity to continue to rule this country to the best of his abilities.”

He added that Obasanjo, who was used to engaging in “very unreasonable political comments should know that he cannot in any way be a stumbling block”

against Buhari’s re-election bid.

According to him, ”There is a clarion call, at least from the state I’m representing on the floor of the House...indeed, it’s a clarion call and we urge Mr. President to run come 2019 and he’ll have our solid support for that.”

On the pockets of insecurity still rocking parts of the country as highlighted in Obasanjo’s letter, the Chief Whip, who hails from Kano State said: “They used not to be pockets, they used to be very enormous in the country; everyone can bear me witness that security problem in the past was worse than what it is today. So now that we have pockets of them, they are only pockets because Mr. President has been able to address them squarely. And we have to thank him for that.”

He said: “Even if you had cause to applaud Obasanjo in the past, no well meaning Nigerian should applaud him this time around because he’s doing exactly a wrong, unpatriotic thing and we should not go by him.”

He said Obasanjo was only fighting back against Buhari’s anti-corruption efforts because the former is corrupt.

IN TOP GEAR

Rivers State Governor, Nyesom Ezenwo Wike (right), and former Jigawa State Governor, Alhaji Sule Lamido, during his visit to declare his intention to run for presidency at the Government House in Port Harcourt ....yesterday

Pandemonium as Fire Guts Tank Farm in Lagos Chiemelie Ezeobi Pandemonium erupted yesterday at the Ijegun area of Satellite Town, Lagos State, after one of the tank farms in the area exploded, snowballing into an inferno.

The fire, which started as an explosion, sent the residents scampering for safety, as they first thought it was a bomb explosion.

Although five tank farms are located inside Stallionaire Oil Depot, emergency responders succeeded in containing the fire to only the affected tank which

contained petrol.

The emergency responders included the Lagos State Fire Service, Lagos State Emergency Management Agency (LASEMA), Federal Fire Service, Nigeria Navy Fire Service, service, National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA), Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), Rapid Response Squad (RRS), Julius Berger Plc and other oil company fire tenders.

The quick response did not only save the lives of residents of the area, it also salvage the

other four tank depots containing diesel and kerosene.

Confirming the incident, the General Manager of LASEMA, Mr. Adesina Tiamiyu, said they were alerted through the emergency toll free line 112/767.

He said: “Consequently, the agency activated its emergency response plan with all the relevant stakeholders.

“On getting to the aforementioned address, it was discovered that the facility which is a fuel depot comprising a five tank farm, of which one of the tanks filled with petrol

exploded and resulted in big inferno.

“However, adequate and prompt response by the emergency responders were on ground to curtaile the inferno to only the petrol tank while others (diesel and kerosene) tanks were salvaged from the inferno.

“Proper investigation would be conducted on the incident, but there is need for owners and managers of oil and gas companies to always ensure that proper emergency response plan is put in place in these kind of facilities.”

55

T H I S D AY ˾ THURSDAY, JANUARY 25, 2018

THURSDAYSPORTS NPFL…

NPFL…

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

Akwa Utd Grabs Away Win to Join Plateau at the Top Duro Ikhazuagbe The four-week old Nigeria Professional Football League (NPFL) showed promise of an exciting season as Akwa United yesterday recorded a 2-1 away victory against Niger Tornadoes in Lokoja to ascend the leadership of the Nigerian topflight.

Victory for the Promise Keepers in the midweek clash at the Confluence Stadium in the Kogi State capital pushed the Akwa Ibom State team to share the top position with defending champions Plateau United on same nine points from four matches.

The Jos team that defeated El kanemi 3-0 at the Rwang Pam Stadium however have a superior +5 goal difference as against Akwa United’s +4 to stay at the top.

Kano Pillars and Lobi Stars who tie on seven points apiece are third and fourth on the log.

Pillars defeated Abia Warriors 2-1 at the Sani Abacha Stadium while Lobi that occupied the top spot going into the midweek clashes fell 0-1 to Yobe Desert Stars in Damaturu.

Heartland was the only other team that secured a point away yesterday.

The Naze millionaires held Go Round FC to a 1-1 draw at the Krisdera Stadium in Omoku in a game which the hosts finished with 10 men, no thanks to the

red card shown Azu Chile in added time.

In Akure, Sunshine Stars defeated Rivers United 2-0.

Rivers United had after the game tweeted that the Owena side deserve their victory.

“We congratulate @ SunshineFCAkure for their deserved victory today. We urge our fans to keep the faith as we look to bounce back vs Enyimba,” United’s Media Officer, Sammie Wejinya tweeted.

Rangers made their fans happy at the Cathedral with a 1-0 victory over Katsina United.

The Flying Antelopes started the season on a poor note, losing their first two games against Akwa United (away) and Lobi Stars (home).

The Gbenga Ogunbote tutored side had before yesterday’s win recorded a 1-0 away victory over Heartland last weekend at the Dan Anyiam Stadium in Owerri.

MATCH DAY 4 RESULTS K’Pillars 2-1 Abia Warriors Kwara Utd 1-0 Wikki MFM FC 2-1 IfeanyiUbah Yobe D’ Stars 1-0 Lobi Plateau Utd 3-0 El Kanemi Rangers 1-0 Katsina Utd Go Round FC 1-1 Heartland Tornadoes 1-2 Akwa Utd Sunshine 2-0 Rivers Utd TODAY Enyimba Vs Nasarawa

NBA: James Becomes Youngest Player to Reach 30,000 Points LeBron James has surpassed Kobe Bryant to become the youngest NBA player to reach 30,000 regular-season points.

The Cleveland Cavaliers player needed eight points but managed 28 as his side lost 114-102 to the San Antonio Spurs.

James reached 30,000 aged 33 years and 24 days, beating ex-Los Angeles Lakers star Bryant at 34 years and 104 days.

Only five other men have reached the tally - Kareem Abdul-Jabbar, Karl Malone, Michael Jordan, Wilt Chamberlain and Dirk Nowitzki.

Chevron, Shell Qualify for NOGIG 2018 Semi Final It was agony for the defending champions of the football event of the Nigeria Oil and Gas Industry Games, NNPC as they crashed out of the competition after losing 2-0 yesterdayto strong contenders, Chevron in their final group match played at the Legacy pitch of the National Stadium, Lagos.

Prior to the match, the two teams had equal number of points(6) from two wins, with NNPC having a superior goal aggregate of +8, while Chevron had a +4 aggregate. It was expected that Team NNPC would overrun their opponents, top the group and go ahead to the semi finals.

But that was not to be as the underdogs, handled by former

Nigeria international, Yisa Sofoluwe defied the form books and created one of the biggest upsets of the competition so far, sending the champions home via a 2-0 victory.

In Group B, Shell had to depend on the unpredictability of Team SEPLAT to qualify for the semi finals.

After going down 4-0 at half time against the much-fancied Exxon Mobil in their final group match, SEPLAT conjured rare resilience and tightened their defence in the second half conceding only one goal. They ended the encounter 0-5.

Today will be observed as rest day while the two semi final matches come up tomorrow at the same venue.

AUSTRALIAN OPEN SEMIS (TODAY) MEN Marin Cilic vs Kyle Edmund FEMALE F Elise Mertens vs Caroline Wozniacki Simona Halep v Angelique Kerber F FRIDAY Y (M MEN N) FRIDAY (MEN) Hyeon Chung vs Roger Federer

Roger Federer defeated Tomas Berdych 7-6 (7-1) 6-3 6-4 at the Rod Laver Arena… on Tuesday night to book the semi final ticket

LeBron James… Joins NBA greats

Coutinho ‘Inherits’ Amuneke’s No14 Jersey at Barcelona Femi Solaja New FC Barcelona recruit, Brazilian Philippe Coutinho has been offered jersey Number 14 worn by Javier Mascherano whose contract with the Catalan giants ended yesterday.

He is bound for the big pay in the Chinese Super League as Barcelona declined to offer him any fresh contract.

The official website of the club, www.fcbarcelona. com confirmed the development yesterday and it is expected that Coutinho, who was involved in the second most expensive transfer deal of all time will make his debut

for the club this evening in the return leg of the Copa dey Rey quarter final game at Camp Nou. There has been debate in the public space on the jersey number the Brazilian midfielder will wear between the vacant Number 7 previously registered for Arda Turan who has moved to Turkey and the number 14 relinquished by Mascherano.

The Spanish club yesterday chronicled all the former great stars that have played in that Number 14 jersey to include former Nigerian international, Emmanuel Amuneke. Other former great Barcelona stars

like, Jordi Cruyff, Gerard Lopez and Thierry Henry wore that shirt.

In his reaction yesterday to the news of Coutinho also assigned that shirt, Amuneke told THISDAY last night from his new base in Sudan that he wished the young Brazilian all the best in his new challenge.

He however warned that he (Coutinho) must be ready to face the pressure from the crowd who will always demand much from him all the time.

“I wish he could take off on a good note before the cules (supporters) at

Camp Nou pile pressure on him,” stressed Amuneke who played two and half seasons at the Spanish club.

Amuneke admitted that the Brazilian: “Is a good player going by his records at Liverpool and in the national team but must be ready to face fresh challenges at Barcelona. He desires the move to Spain and finally he got it, then he must be prepared for it.”

Coutinho will be the 7th Blaugrana to wear the Number 14 and it will be a first for the Brazilian as he has worn the numbers 7, 10, 23, 29 and 30 previously in his career.

Lalong Opens 11th PGA Qualifying School The Governor of Plateau State, Simon Bako Lalong, on Tuesday officially declared the 2018 Professional Golfers Association of Nigeria’s Qualifying School open at Lamingo Golf Club in Plateau State.

His tee-shot at hole-one of the course declared the biennial test open for top amateur golfers who have applied for membership of the PGA of Nigeria.

Lalong said that the state apart from being the favourite for golfers also has one of the

most challenging facilities in Lamingo where the players are facing the test to become professional players.

“I welcome the players here and I believe Plateau State and Lamingo especially provides the best test for players seeking to be their best in the game of golf. I also thank the PGA of Nigeria for their support in golf development in the state and Nigeria as a whole,” he noted.

Ninety-six players in all have applied for the membership of the PGAN and their test started with a one-year internship with

some certified professional across the countries while the five days test between January 22nd and 26th at the Lamingo Golf Club will be the climax of the admission process.

Director of the PGA of Nigeria, Samson Lawal, said that the PGA was more focused on admitting exceptional players that would raise the bar on the PGA Nigeria Tour which is regarded as one of the toughest on the continent.

According to Lawal; “We have raised the bar in the admission process and this is to help the association pick the very talents

from the lot that we have here, among other things, we are not purely focusing on the Playing Ability Test (PAT), there is the test of English Language, Club Repairs, Pro Shop Administration and Rules of Golf and its interpretation.

The players would run through 54 holes of play in three days at the Lamingo golf course while, other aspect of the test will run concurrently daily after every round of the game. The successful players are billed for a round of golf with members of host club on Saturday, January 27, 2018.

Ikpeazu, Contractor Strike Fresh Accord over Enyimba Stadium Abia State Governor, Okezie Ikpeazu and the contractor handling Enyimba Stadium, Aba, Ebi Egbe have struck a new deal that would see the arena completed in a matter of weeks.

The governor early this week met with Egbe in his office in Umuahia where all grey areas delaying the project were resolved.

Egbe who is the Chief Executive Officer of Monimichelle Group disclosed yesterday that the governor assured him that funds won’t be a challenge as he (Ikpeazu) would not want Enyimba to remain in Calabar, especially during the team’s continental campaign.

“I can assure all Enyimba fans that their team will soon return home. The governor has looked

at my presentation against the backdrop of rising costs and has given approval to the variation in the cost of the project. In a matter of days we will start with the installation of the grass,” Egbe said.

He stressed that the governor is looking beyond the turf as he wants the entire stadium facilities upgraded to bring the arena to international standard.

“One thing that is clear is that the governor is passionate about the stadium project.

On our part, we won’t disappoint,” Egbe said.

Enyimba would next month begin campaign in the CAF Confederation Cup with a game against the winner of Hafia of Guinea and the representative of Benin Republic.

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Thursday, January 25, 2018

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Price: N250

MISSILE Abdul Ali to Rochas Okorocha “Tragedy is about to happen in Imo State. Bridges are being built without design. It is a disaster waiting to happen. We cannot stop the construction because the Act establishing COREN does not permit us to stop the construction” – President of the Council for the Regulation of Engineering in Nigeria, Kashim Abdul Ali, on how Governor Rochas Okorocha is building bridges in Imo State without engineering designs.

OLUSEGUNADENIYI THE VERDICT

olusegun.adeniyi@thisdaylive.com

Aisha, Obasanjo and Buhari’s Burden

C

onventional wisdom teaches that when you get to a situation where your friends and enemies are singing from the same page on issues affecting you, it is time to reflect on what you are doing wrong. Against the background of a groundswell of disaffection to his stewardship and the yet-to-be declared aspiration for a second term, that wisdom will serve President Muhammadu Buhari very well.

For a man who came to office with much adulation, the president has squandered such enormous goodwill that he is now the object of all manner of unpleasant memes on social media, including those being promoted right from The Other Room.

It is indeed very instructive that Mrs. Aisha Buhari, using her official Twitter handle, @ aishambuhari last Friday retweeted the video posts of Senators Ben Bruce and Isah Misau, both of them speaking on the seeming inability of the president to protect the lives and property of Nigerians as well as the nepotism in recent appointments. In the Bruce post that Mrs Buhari found worthy of retweet, the “Commonsense” Senator says “Nigeria is becoming a lawless country where there is no consequence for bad behavior” while in the one by Misau, the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) Senator assailed the president not only for his appointment of people he described as incompetent to critical positions but also for the selective nature of the anti-corruption war before he added: “…

This Attorney-General is becoming a nuisance, going to court to stop Maina (probe) and we are still here.”

With his wife, Aisha reposting such video footages at the same time that some unpleasant but loaded quotes are being circulated from the Twitter handle of his daughter, it is obvious that all is not well in the Buhari household. While the president should put his house in order by resolving whatever may be the issues causing such family disharmony, the statement, on Tuesday, by former President Olusegun Obasanjo has added a new twist to the unfolding drama in a nation already bogged down by many challenges.

I have read the tepid response from the federal government (signed by Information and Culture Minister, Alhaji Lai Mohammed) as well as that by APC (signed by spokesman, Mr Bolaji Abdullahi) but given my little understanding of Nigerian politics, that cannot be the end of the matter. In the coming days, we should expect rallies by jobbers who would drum up support for Buhari, with harsh words for his critics, especially Obasanjo; and perhaps even for his wife, Aisha. In the season that we are in, there will be no shortage of sponsors for such characters, but in his quiet moment, President Buhari may have to introspect on how things have degenerated to this level for him and his administration.

For sure, Obasanjo’s statement deserves a serious interrogation in terms of content, tone, timing, motive (given the character and pedigree of the writer) and the curious political prescriptions that offer no real solution to what ails us as a nation.

But there is no denying that his intervention rhymes with public mood, essentially because, aside his x-ray of the economy, the former president touched on the mismanagement of two critical issues that

Buhari helped in bringing Buhari to power: The fight against corruption and national security cum unity. Yet, it is not only Obasanjo who feels that the president has failed on both counts; many other Nigerians also feel the same way and that is what should worry the administration.

Indeed, to the extent that nothing kills an idea better than the application of double standards, only few people still take the anti-corruption posture of this administration seriously. But the example cited by Obasanjo is that of ‘Mainagate’, one of the big scandals that consumed President Goodluck Jonathan but has been given fresh impetus by the current administration. Not only was Abdulrasheed Maina brought back to office under dubious circumstances, the dismissed fugitive civil servant was given double promotion, paid hefty sums of money from the treasury and has practically enlisted the Attorney General of the Federation and Justice Minister, Abubakar Malami, as his personal counsel, even against the National Assembly.

Therefore, it is difficult to fault Obasanjo’s

Whenever human emotions are exhibited in a leader, people take hope while a tear for the distressed, one heartfelt utterance of genuine grief when people are hurting etc. are some of the attributes of a genuine leader—it is not about taking all tidings with equal indifference, as Buhari most times

brutal assessment that what has transpired on the Maina scandal under the Buhari administration amounts to “collusion, condonation, ineptitude, incompetence, dereliction of responsibility”, before he added a poser: “How many similar cases are buried, ignored or covered up and not yet in the glare of the media and the public?”

The second issue highlighted by Obasanjo goes to the core of what government is all about: security of lives and livelihoods; and it is precisely the handling of it that has actually turned many Nigerians against the president: The killings in the Middle Belt arising from the perennial conflicts between farmers and pastoralists. Incidentally, it is the video footages of the interventions by some Senators in the course of a debate where the president came under heavy attacks that his wife re-tweeted on social media. While the problem persists and all that we keep getting from the authorities are excuses, the latest is that those killings were being perpetrated by the agents of the Islamic State, a very ridiculous proposition that flies in the face of both facts and common sense; and I can prove that very quickly with just three examples.

On 2nd February 2017, the Police Headquarters paraded 17 men suspected to have committed “culpable homicide and disturbance of peace in Southern Kaduna.” Presenting them before newsmen in Abuja, police spokesman, Jimoh Moshood, said that 29 assorted firearms were recovered from the suspects. And perhaps to indicate that the Police were working with the Kaduna State authorities on the breakthrough, Governor Nasir El-Rufai posted a Twitter message: “The 17 Suspects are being paraded for culpable homicide and disturbance of public peace in Southern Kaduna.” It is almost one year after that revelation and nothing has also been heard about those 17 suspects who definitely are not ISIS members.

On 21st April last year, 19 persons said to be members of a notorious gang responsible for large-scale killings in Zaki-Biam, Benue State, were paraded before journalists in Abuja. Preliminary investigations, according to Moshood, revealed that the gang was led by one Terwase Akwaza, said to be a serial killer, who had also been involved in the murder of about 50 people in other locations in Benue State. Some of the recovered arms and ammunitions from the suspects included three AK 47 rifles; one 3FN Rifles; one G3 Rifle; one LMG; one SMG; one double-barrel gun and Mark 4 rifle; four single-barrel guns; four locally-made revolver pistols; five locally-made RM revolver pistols; 36 hand-grenades; two local short guns; 141 AK47 magazines; 20 FN magazines and 18 6x G3 magazines among other arms and ammunition.

Even when none of those criminal suspects has been arraigned in any court, there were never suggestions at any point that Terwaze and his men came from Syria or Iraq. So, the officials who are peddling tales that members of some nebulous Islamic State in West Africa have penetrated the country and are responsible for the killings are doing so for unclear but definitely not patriotic reasons. The fact that is in the public domain is that several arrests have been made of Nigerians involved in these killings without any action taken to

bring them to justice.

For instance, on 27th May 2016, following a military “Operation Safe Haven” in Plateau State, Major General Tagbo Ude paraded six members of a syndicate of cattle rustlers that allegedly murdered a 35-year-old Adamu Yusuf and rustled (stole, in simple language) his 32 cows and 22 sheep while he was grazing around Sagas village in Mangu local government area.

While the stolen cows were scattered by the rustlers with some moved into Fan in Barkin Ladi and Bukuru in Jos South local governments of the state, security agents reportedly recovered 19 of them and all the sheep. Those arrested rustlers, about whom nothing has been heard ever since, were identified, not as ISIS members, but rather as bona fide home-grown criminal suspects with known names and addresses.

What the foregoing says is that this government should stop looking for silly excuses and begin to proffer solutions to the security challenges plaguing the nation. That people who ordinarily do not like Obasanjo are celebrating his statement speaks to a growing disenchantment with the manner in which the current administration has handled critical issues. If it is not that the handing-over note is delaying important appointments, rat would be chasing the president from office while Federal Executive Council meeting may not hold because the president is reading some reports on which he would not even take any action!

While Nigerians are tired of these excuses that are not even clever, what is perhaps more damaging is the seeming insensitivity that has become the hallmark of this government. From releasing a meaningless documentary just to prove that the president can crack jokes to receiving governors asking him to contest at a period of national distress, not only have the choices made by President Buhari called to question his judgement, he has most often looked aloof and distant when the occasion demanded that he be the consoler-in-chief. Yet, what Buhari and his handlers fail to appreciate is that whenever human emotions are exhibited in a leader, people take hope while a tear for the distressed, a sigh of contrition in moments of mistakes, one heartfelt utterance of genuine grief when people are hurting etc. are some of the attributes of a genuine leader—it is not about taking all tidings with equal indifference, as Buhari does most times.

Notwithstanding whatever may be his failings, President Buhari has a right to seek a second term if he so chooses and it is left for Nigerians to decide whether or not they consider him worthy. So to that extent, between now and May 2019, emphasis should be on how he can make course corrections. Buhari is still our president and whatever he does (or refuses to do) will still impact us as a nation, even if he ends up not seeking re-election. However, I am also of the strongest conviction that when the time comes for him to decide, the president should look beyond those who are making their own cold calculations not because they love him but rather because he is the only political vehicle (they believe) that can deliver to them power and privileges.

That time, I must add, has not come.

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