FRIDAY 8TH JUNE 2018

After 11 Years as Editor, Nwogwugwu is New MD for ARISE News Channel, Africa Adebiyi, Momodu, Adebowale appointed Editors for THISDAY Davidson Iriekpen The board of directors of the THISDAY-ARISE Media Group has announced new executive and senior appointments to take

effect immediately.

Following the approval of the board, Ms. Ijeoma Nwogwugwu, after an 11-year stint as Editor of the three titles under the THISDAY stable, has

been appointed the pioneer Managing Director of ARISE News Channel Africa.

She will be replaced by Mr. Bolaji Adebiyi who has been promoted to takeover as the new

Editor of the Newspaper. Until his new appointment, Adebiyi was the Editor of THISDAY the Sunday Newspaper.

In his place, Mr. Shaka Momodu, the Editor of the

Saturday Newspaper, has been moved to takeover as the Editor of THISDAY the Sunday Newspaper.

Continued on page 10

Nwogwugwu

Osinbajo Escapes Tragedy Following Emergency Landing by Helicopter… Page 50 Friday 8 June, 2018 Vol 23. No 8450. Price: N250

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IG Drags Senate to Court over His Censure Offa robbery: Saraki sends written response to police Deji Elumoye and Alex Enumah in Abuja The Inspector General of Police, Ibrahim Idris yesterday dragged the Senate President, Dr. Bukola Saraki and the Senate to the Abuja Division of the Federal High Court over the resolution by the upper legislative chamber declaring him an “enemy of democracy” and not fit to hold office within and outside Nigeria.

Continued on page 10

L-R: Ex-Officio Member, National Council, Nigerian Stock Exchange (NSE), Mr. Aigboje Aig-Imoukhuede; CEO, NSE, Mr. Oscar N. Onyema; President, National Council, NSE, Mr. Abimbola Ogunbanjo; Head, Council Secretariat, NSE, Mrs. Mojisola Adeola; and First Vice-President, National Council, NSE, Mr. Abubakar Balarabe Mahmoud (SAN), during the 57th Annual General Meeting of the Exchange at the NSE event centre in Lagos… yesterday

Abiola, Fawehinmi Families Accept National Honour, Thank Buhari Senate seeks release of June 12 election results, payment of entitlements to MKO, Kingibe House debates legality of making June 12 Democracy Day, Falana faults Belgore President orders AGF to gazette decisions

Omololu Ogunmade, Deji Elumoye, James Emejo in Abuja, Tobi Soniyi and Chiemelie Ezeobi in Lagos The families of the late Chief

See more reactions on June 12 declaration on page 51 MKO Abiola and Chief Gani Fawehinmi (SAN)

have decided to accept the posthumous national honours to be conferred on them by President Muhammadu Buhari on June 12, the new date set aside for the celebration of

Democracy Day in the country.

In honour of the late Abiola, the presumed winner of the June 12, 1993 presidential election, Buhari on Wednesday had declared that the nation’s

Democracy Day would henceforth hold on June 12 of every year as against the current arrangement where the day is celebrated on May 29.

The president, in addition,

conferred the national honour, Grand Commander of the Federal Republic (GCFR), the highest national award Continued on page 10

CBN to Commence Bi-weekly Auction of Chinese Yuan… Page 12

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PAGE TEN A F TER 11 YEAR S AS EDITOR , N WOGWU GWU I S N E W M D F OR AR I SE N E WS C H AN N E L , A F RI CA Mr. Yemi Adebowale, Deputy Editor on the Saturday Desk, has been promoted to takeover from Momodu as the new Editor of the Saturday Newspaper.

Other appointments/promotions approved by the board include: Mr. Joseph Ushigale who was moved from the post of Deputy Editor of THISDAY to Managing Editor; Mr. Davidson Iriekpen, Group News Editor, has been promoted to Deputy Editor of THISDAY Newspapers; Mr. Tobi Soniyi, Group Politics Editor, promoted to Deputy Editor of the Sunday Newspaper; and Mrs. Chika Amanze-Nwachuku, Group Business Editor, promoted to Deputy Editor of the Saturday Newspaper.

Others are Mr. Obinna Chima, Senior Correspondent, Money Markets, who now takes over as

the new Group Business Editor; Ms. Chiemelie Ezeobi, Crime and Defence Correspondent, promoted to Group Features Editor; Mr. Nseobong Okon-Ekong, Glitterati Editor, takes over as Group Politics Editor; Mr. Charles Ajunwa, acting Features Editor, promoted to Associate Editor, Saturday Desk; and Ms. Funke Olaode, Glitterati Correspondent, promoted to Assistant Editor, Glitterati.

In her new position as Managing Director of ARISE News Channel Africa, Ms. Nwogwugwu will be responsible for driving new content, programmes, news gathering, documentaries and distribution/ advertising sales for the television station. She will also oversee the opening of new bureaus in other African countries starting with South Africa, Kenya and Ghana.

Ms. Nwogwugwu comes with a wealth of experience cutting across the private and public sectors,

Adebiyi

Momodu

Adebowale

having worked in Merchant Bank of Africa, the Bureau of Public Enterprises (BPE) and THISDAY Newspapers where she rose from Correspondent on the Business Desk to the position of Editor/ Group Executive Director of the newspaper.

She currently holds the track record of editing all three titles of the newspapers under the THISDAY stable for the longest period of 11 unbroken years and is the second woman in the history of Nigerian journalism to be appointed Editor of a national newspaper, the first being Mrs.

Doyin Abiola.

She is also the only editorial staff of THISDAY to date, to have served out her full two three-year terms as Editor of the Newspaper, which ends on June 10, 2018.

In addition to sitting on the THISDAY-ARISE Media Group board and on the Editorial Board of the newspaper, Ms. Nwogwugwu sits on the board of First Pension Custodian of Nigeria Limited (FPCNL), a subsidiary of First Bank of Nigeria Limited.

She has also sat on the boards of the Nigerian Security Printing and Minting Company, Daily Times of

Nigeria and the National Hospital, Abuja.

Ms. Nwogwugwu, in her position as Group Business Editor, in 2000 started writing the award-winning Back Page column, ‘Behind the Figures,’ with a primary focus on business, finance and the economy.

She intends to resuscitate the column, which she rested for more than a year to focus on her job as editor.

Mr. Adebiyi, like his predecessor, will be assuming the post of Editor of the Newspaper with considerable experience

cutting across the public and private sectors.

He started his career in journalism as a Senior Reporter with Newbreed Magazine, from where he proceeded to Citizen Magazine, and later Punch Newspaper.

He joined THISDAY in 2005 and rose to the post of Deputy Editor of the paper and member of the Editorial Board.

In 2007, he left for the presidency where he was a two-term presidential aide to the late President Umaru Yar’Adua and former President Goodluck Jonathan.

He returned in 2015 as Deputy Editor of the newspaper and member of the Editorial Board until his promotion in March this year to Editor, THISDAY the Sunday Newspaper.

In his new position as editor, Mr. Adebiyi will be overseeing the Editorial Department of THISDAY and will be responsible for the daily production of the newspaper.

subordinate, the Deputy Inspector General of Police, Operations, and to others whom according to him had “adequate direct knowledge of the two subject matters� relating to the invitation.

He said the respondents however refused to accept his representatives and adjourned plenary to May 2, 2018, “with a stern warning that the applicant must appear or face the consequences�.

He added that based on the above development, the respondents passed the said resolution declaring him an enemy of democracy and unfit to hold any public office within and outside Nigeria.

Delivering ruling on the application, Justice John Tsoho said the IG had shown sufficient interest to be granted leave of the court to move the court action against

the respondents.

Justice Tsoho also ordered that the processes be served on the respondents through the Clerk of the National Assembly and adjourned to June 27 for the application on notice.

In a related development, Saraki yesterday formally responded in writing to police allegation that he had a hand in the recent armed robbery incident that claimed 33 lives in Offa, Kwara State.

The Senate President’s response was sent with a covering letter from his office at the National Assembly in Abuja yesterday morning.

The Senate President echoed this in his Twitter handle saying: “In line with their request, earlier today, the police received my response to their letter on the investigation into the Offa robbery case.�

Saraki’s response came 24 hours

after the two-day ultimatum given to him by the police to respond to the allegations.

The police on Sunday had initially invited Saraki to appear in person at their office in Guzape, Abuja, to respond to the allegations against him. On Monday, however, the police through a letter gave Saraki up to 48 hours, which lapsed on Wednesday, to respond in writing to the various allegations levelled against him by some of the robbery suspects in their custody, saying he was no longer required to appear in person.

However, the police by Wednesday had changed course again, insisting that Saraki must appear in person at their office in Guzape, Abuja.

The flip-flop by the police came one day after the Senate reaffirmed its censure of the police IG.

award.

Fawehinmi, a fiery activist and an uncompromising believer in the rule of law and democratic governance, was arrested, incarcerated and charged to court several times by successive military regimes.

He died at the age of 71 on September 5, 2009 after a prolonged battle with lung cancer.

During his illness, he rejected the national honour, Order of the Federal Republic (OFR) – in protest of the many years of misrule since Nigeria’s independence.

However, yesterday, the first son of the late lawyer, Mr. Mohammed Fawehinmi expressed the family’s gratitude in an interview with the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) in Lagos.

Mohammed said the family accepted the honour bestowed on his late father and thanked Buhari for the recognition. “We thank the federal government for the honour, we appreciate it and we accept it. “We also thank the government for recognising the June 12 struggle.

We thank the president for the honour,� he said.

Mohammed added that his late father deserved the honour, having fought hard for justice and democracy while he was alive.

He dismissed the perception in some quarters that his father would have rejected the award if he was alive.

Mohammed said his father rejected the OFR national honour because it was undeserving. “My father would not have rejected this award. He rejected the OFR award given to him because it was not deserving,� he said.

mandated the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to announce the final results of the June 12, 1993 presidential election so that it can be on record that MKO Abiola won the poll.

INEC is the successor agency of National Electoral Commission (NEC) which was chaired in 1993

by Professor Humphrey Nwosu and conducted the presidential election held on Saturday, June 12, 1993 between Social Democratic Party candidate, Abiola, and that of National Republican Convention (NRC), Alhaji Ibrahim Tofa.

The election adjudged globally as a free and fair election was believed to have been won by Abiola.

In a four-point resolution reached after a lengthy debate of the president’s declaration making June 12 the new Democracy Day, the Senate said with the recognition of Abiola and Kingibe as former President and ex-Vice-President of Nigeria respectively, all their entitlements should be paid forthwith.

I G DRAGS S ENAT E TO COU RT OVER HIS C EN SU R E Idris, through his counsel, Alex Iziyon (SAN), is seeking the leave of court to challenge the Senate’s resolution of May 9.

In the suit marked FHC/ ABJ/CS/554/2018, and filed on May 25, the police boss is seeking a declaration that the respondents acted “ultra vires of its powers under Sections

88 and 89 of the Constitution in the votes and proceedings leading to the resolution contained in the gazette dated 9th May, 2018 imposing a penal sanction on the applicant�.

The application which is predicated on an 18 paragraph affidavit, among others, is seeking an order of court quashing the entire votes and proceedings, and by implication, the resolution of the Senate that led to the resolution contained in the gazette dated May

9, declaring the IG an “enemy of democracy and unfit to hold any public office within and outside Nigeria�.

The IG is also seeking: “An order of perpetual injunction restraining the respondents whether by itself, or through its servant, agents and or privies, whatsoever from acting on the said resolution contained in the gazette dated 9th May, 2018 or causing same to be acted upon by any person or authority or government agency, or carrying out similar or like resolution against the applicant.�

Some of the grounds on which the reliefs were sought are that the respondents lack the competence and or jurisdiction to impose penal sanctions on the IG under Sections 88 and 89 of the Constitution; that the conduct of the respondents throughout the votes

and proceedings that led to the said resolution contained in the gazette dated May 9, was palpable of bias, deep rooted prejudiced, visible hatred and disguised contempt for the applicant; and the action of the Senate constituted a legislative judgment.

The applicant, in the affidavit in support of the motion, averred that he as a fact can carry out his functions by himself or delegate same to his subordinate officers, in accordance with the law, adding that it was practically impossible for him to be in all places at the same time to answer to all summons at all times.

Idris, in the affidavit, said that he received the respondents' letter of 25 April inviting him to appear before the Senate, but because of his engagement in a trip involving the president, he had to delegate his

A B I OLA, FAWEHIN MI FAMILIES ACCEPT N AT I ON AL H ON OU R , T H AN K B U H AR I exclusively reserved for presidents and heads of states in the country, on Abiola.

He also said that the late Chief Fawehinmi, renowned lawyer and human rights crusader, who was at the forefront of the battle for the actualisation of the June 12 mandate, would be conferred with the second highest honour of Grand Commander of the Order of the Niger (GCON) posthumously.

Abiola’s running mate in the election, Baba Gana Kingibe, would also be conferred with GCON on June 12, said the president.

In announcing June 12 as the new Democrat Day, Buhari said he reached the decision after due consultations.

The June 12, 1993 presidential election was cancelled by the military regime of Gen. Ibrahim Babangida on June 23, 1993, for no tangible reason, forcing Abiola to fight for the actualisation of his mandate.

However, Babangida’s successor the late Gen. Sani Abacha detained Abiola until his (Abacha) death on June 8, 1998.

Abiola died under suspicious circumstances while in custody on July 7, 1998, just as negotiations were ongoing between leaders of the National Democratic Coalition (NADECO) and the successive military regime led by Gen. Abdulsalami Abubakar for his release.

According to Buhari, June 12 was the day Nigerians freely exercised their democratic rights and voted for Abiola.

Expressing their gratitude to the president for immortalising Abiola, the family said yesterday that the posthumous conferment of GCFR on him (Abiola) was the only befitting recognition for his fight for democracy in Nigeria.

In a letter to Buhari written by the scion of the Abiola family, Kola Abiola, he expressed the family’s

appreciation to the president.

The letter which was made available to THISDAY by Kola, said: “On behalf of the wives, children and grandchildren of late Bashorun Moshood Kashimawo Olawale Abiola, I am writing to formally express our sincere appreciation to you for conferring him with the National Honour of Grand Commander of the Federal Republic (GCFR) and designating June 12 as Democracy Day in Nigeria going forward. “Your Excellency, as I wrote in my letter to you on June 12, 2016, in our minds, the award was the only befitting recognition of the importance of Chief Abiola’s fight for democracy for Nigeria which culminated in four years in incarceration/solitary confinement and decimation of his business and financial interests, before the ultimate sacrifice, being his life on July 7, 1998 at the age of 60. “Your Excellency, your decision to also designate June 12 as Democracy Day rights the wrong done to all the nation-builders and heroes that produced the democratic credentials on which the Nigerian polity now thrives. “We are profoundly grateful to the people from all corners of Nigeria that worked tirelessly to ensure the most free and fair elections in our nation’s history in 1993, fought valiantly for the Hope ‘93 mandate given to Bashorun Abiola by the Nigerian people and died trying to protect the mandate. “Mr. President, I thank you earnestly for heeding our plea where others before you did not, whilst conveying the assurances of my highest esteem.�

Hafsat Waxes Lyrical Similarly, Abiola’s daughter, Mrs. Hafsat Abiola-Costello, yesterday commended the federal government

for the recognition accorded her father.

For Hafast, this honour came barely 24 hours after she was appointed executive president of Women in Africa (WIA) initiative, a network of women across Africa and the world with strong ties with companies and organisations, especially in Europe and dedicated to economic development.

While bashing former President Olusegun Obasanjo for practically ignoring the legacies of Abiola, she said: “The struggle to actualise the #June12 mandate was MKO’s opportunity to show how much he loved and believed in Nigerians and Nigeria. I am simply glad that his commitment held through all the difficulties. He has played his part. We must do no less.�

She also wrote a poem which shared via Twitter to chronicle the journey she tagged: “Twenty-five Years after June 12: Our Long Wait for Justice is Ending.�

She wrote: “I had expected that the handover from military rule to democracy would be held on the 12th of June. That would have signalled the completion of a circle that began with a dream deferred. That became one fulfilled but I waited in vain. “The handover was set for May 29, a date pulled out of thin air, signifying nothing. Then I thought that the chief beneficiary would ask the country to observe a minute of silence in memory of MKO, Kudirat, Alfred Rewane, Umaru Yar’Adua, Bagauda Kaltho, the thousands of students, the tens of journalists, traders and politicians who lost their lives fighting to actualise an unjustly annulled election. “Again, I waited in vain for he started his inauguration speech and nothing was said. “The first four years passed and it became clear that the goal was to erase the name of the man

whose sacrifice paved the way for our democracy. Those four years set the tone. “And I got tired of waiting, as it slowly became clear that to wait was to wait in vain. “I stopped expecting my country to do the right thing by my father and instead began to understand why Nigeria struggles to find patriots among its leaders. “Until when President Muhammadu Buhari gave an executive order to declare that June 12 was Nigeria’s Democracy Day; to confer on MKO the title of GCFR, an honour reserved for presidents of the Federal Republic of Nigeria. “To confer on Gani Fawehinmi, the dogged fighter for justice, and my father’s running mate, Babagana Kingibe, the title of GCON, the second highest in the land. “And in one day, demonstrated to my bruised heart that integrity, fairness, honour were alive and well in a country for which both my parents had sacrificed their lives. “There are no words that can capture the depth of my gratitude nor the breadth of my joy. I thank God that I am alive to witness this day. “May we live to witness many more days when justice triumphs over injustice, when sacrifice and service win over arrogance and fraud, and when the blood of our heroes reach from across time to boldly claim the reward that their actions wrought. “May the sacrifices of our past heroes and heroines never be in vain.�

Fawehinmi Family Accepts Award Just like the Abiolas, the family of late human rights activist, Chief Gani Fawehinmi yesterday thanked the federal government for its decision to give their patriarch a national

June 12 Election Results Also joining the bandwagon on the recognition accorded Abiola and others, the Senate yesterday

Continued on page 12

TOP GAINERS NGN NGN NASCON 2.05 22.40 JAPAUL 0.02 0.29 CADBURY 0.55 12.05 C&I LEASING 0.07 1.54 LAFARGEAFRICA 1.80 39.80 TOP LOSERS NGN NGN ETERNA 0.36 6.90 CONTINENTAL 0.07 1.43 PRESTIGE 0.02 0.46 RTBRISCOE 0.02 0.46 NIGINSURE 0.01 0.25 HPE Nestle Nig Plc â‚Ś1,430.00 Volume: 492.047 million shares Value: N 7.623 billion Deals: 4,726 As at 7/6/18 See details on Page 43

% 10.1 7.4 4.7 4.7 4.7 % 4.9 4.6 4.1 4.1 3.8

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CBN to Commence Bi-weekly Auction of Chinese Yuan Obinna Chima Following the $2.5 billion bilateral currency swap agreement signed last month between the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) and the People’s Bank of China (PBoC), the CBN yesterday announced plans to start bi-weekly auctions of the Chinese yuan.

The CBN stated this in a circular signed by its Director, Financial Markets Department, Dr. Alvan Ikoku, a copy of which was posted on its website.

THISDAY had exclusively reported the appointment of First Bank of Nigeria Limited, Stanbic IBTC, Standard Chartered Bank (SCB) and Zenith Bank Plc as the settlement banks for the currency swap and the auction might commence this month.

The Bilateral Currency

Swap Agreement (BCSA) is for a maximum of 15 billion Yuan or N720 billion with a three-year tenor.

For an authorised bank to access the bi-weekly auction of the Chinese currency, the CBN stated in the circular that such a dealers “shall open Renminbi accounts with a correspondent bank and advise the CBN with its Renminbi account details which may either be with a bank onshore or offshore China�.

It also directed importers intending to import from China to obtain proforma invoices denominated in Renminbi as part of the documents required for the registration of ‘Form M’.

The CBN said in the circular that forex purchased in the window would not be used for payments on transactions in which the beneficiaries are not in China, adding that

authorised dealers shall not open domiciliary accounts dominated in Renminbi for customers. “For the purpose of this regulation, authorised dealers shall be deposit money banks and merchant banks. “The CBN may conduct bi-weekly Renminbi bidding sessions. The Renminbi sales shall be applicable only to trade-backed transactions. “Importers and exporters shall continue to pay the applicable levies on imports and exports respectively. “Authorised dealers are required to utilise funds within 72 hours from the value date, failing which such funds must be returned to the CBN for repurchase at the Bank’s buying rate. “The CBN shall debit authorised dealers’ current account on the day of the

intervention with the naira equivalent of the Renminbi bid request. “Bids shall be settled spot through a multiple-price book bidding process and will cutoff at a marginal rate (to be disclosed after the conclusion of the Special Secondary Market Intervention Sales (SMIS) - retail process,� it added.

The central bank pointed out that it reserves the right not to make a sale, if in its opinion the exercise does not provide an effective price for the determination of the naira/ yuan exchange rate.

On the charges for the transaction, it stated that “there shall be no predetermined spread on spot forex transactions executed through the CBN Reminbi intervention�. “However, authorised dealers may earn not more than 50 kobo on a customer’s bid.�

Furthermore, the CBN pointed out that mode of payment shall be in line with the Memorandum Nine of its foreign exchange manual.

In terms of Letters of Credit transactions, it stated: “All negotiating documents and/ or shipping document (as may be applicable), must be routed from the beneficiary/supplier through his/her bank to the issuing bank. “For the avoidance of doubt, on no account must a bank endorse or pay on documents that do not comply with routing above.�

According to the CBN, for Bills for Collection transactions: “Documents must be routed to the issuing bank either directly from the supplier’s bank or through the offshore correspondent of the issuing bank; and in addition, the documents in respect of ‘Not

Valid’ for foreign exchange transactions shall be routed by the supplier directly to the application’s bank that validates the underlying e-Form ‘M’.�

The currency swap allows the CBN and the PBoC to among other purposes, make available liquidity in their respective currencies for the facilitation and promotion of trade and investments across the two nations through the purchase, sale and subsequent repurchase and resale of the Chinese Yuan (CNY) against the naira and vice versa.

According to the CBN, the bilateral currency swap shall be used only for the purposes of trade finance and direct investment between the Peoples’ Republic of China and Nigeria, maintain financial market stability, and for other purposes that both parties may agree upon.

He ackowledged that the Principal Schedule of the Constitution had already set aside May 29 as Democracy Day while there was a conflicting presidential proclamation on the same issue.

He said the matter would be referred to the appropriate committee for proper guidance to enable the House take a “decision that assures the people that we are serious�.

Dogara subsequently referred the matter to the House Committee on Justice.

Honours Warrant made pursuant to the National Honours Act provides that ‘a person shall be appointed to a particular rank of an Order when he receives from the president in person, at an investiture held for the purpose...’ “But Paragraph 3 thereof has given the president the unqualified discretion ‘to dispense with the requirement of Paragraph 2 in such manner as may be specified in the direction’. “Therefore, since the national awards conferred on Chief Abiola and Chief Fawehinmi cannot be received by them in person the president may permit their family members to receive same on their behalf.�

Falana also argued that Section 2(1) of the Public Holidays Act stipulates that in addition to the holidays mentioned in the Schedule to the Act, the president may appoint a special day to be kept as a public holiday either throughout Nigeria or in any part thereof. “It is crystal clear that the president is not required by law to seek and obtain the approval of the National Assembly before declaring a public holiday in the country. “In view of the combined effect of the National Honours Act and the Public Holidays Act, the legal validity of the well deserved awards and the historic holiday has not been impugned in any manner whatsoever,� Falana said.

But even as the debate raged over the legality or otherwise of the awards and shift in date for the Democracy Day celebrations, the president yesterday directed the Attorney-General of the Federation (AGF) and Minister of Justice, Mallam Shehu Malami (SAN), to take immediate steps to gazette the Presidential Order awarding the nation’s highest and second honours to Abiola and two others respectively.

The order will be published in the Federal Gazette as announced yesterday by President Buhari: r $IJFG .,0 "CJPMB m (SBOE Commander of the Federal Republic (Posthumous) r "NCBTTBEPS #BCB (BOB ,JOHJCF m (SBOE $PNNBOEFS PG UIF 0SEFS of the Niger r $IJFG (BOJ 'BXFIJONJ m (SBOE Commander of the Order of the Niger (Posthumous) Buhari also directed that this should be done so that the awards slated for June 12 could progress as planned.

A B I OLA, FAWEHIN MI FAMILIES ACCEPT N AT I ON AL H ON OU R , T H AN K B U H AR I It also implored the federal government to not only recognise Kingibe as former vice-president but to declare June 12 a public holiday.

The Senate, however, stressed that May 29, 2019 remains the inauguration date of a new government in the country.

Senate President Bukola Saraki who read the resolutions of the Senate in his earlier contribution, said the recognition of the place of Abiola in the nation’s history by Buhari was long overdue.

According to him, the country has not given Abiola the recognition he rightly deserved in the last 25 years “but this should not douse our thoughts of the good intentions of the latest move of government�.

Senator Lanre Tejuosho(Ogun Central), who opened discussions on the June 12 issue, came under Order 43 to say that Buhari’s proclamation of June 12 as Democracy Day signaled the beginning of reconciliation between the government and the people and by extension between executive and the legislature.

Contributing, Senator Biodun Olujinmi(Ekiti South), while supporting the position of Tejuosho, however, suggested that INEC must be made to announce the June 12 election results and declare Abiola as winner.

She said once that is done ``’there should be reparation and what Abiola is entitled to as president should be given to his family while Kingibe should be recognised as former vice-president�.

On his part, Senate Leader Ahmad Lawan said Buhari meant well by his action on June 12, noting that date was significant in the history of the politics of Nigeria.

Deputy Senate President, Ike Ekweremadu also supported the declaration of the June 12, 1993 election result “so as to be on record that MKO Abiola won at the polls�.

He, however, advised government to address other injustices like environmental degradation and incessant killings across the country.

He quoted Section 135(2b) of the Constitution to justify the inauguration of a new government in the country, saying May 29 remains the inauguration date.

Also contributing, Senator Dino Melaye (Kogi West) said Abiola deserved more honours but emphasised that “whatever government wants to do must be done in accordance with the law as Nigeria is governed by

the Constitution and extant rules�.

On his part, Senator Enyinnaya Abaribe, (Abia South) advised the Executive to forward an amendment to the National Honours Award List to the National Assembly “so as to quickly amend it to accommodate the likes of Abiola�.

He also proposed that December 31 should be recognised as “Democracy Destruction Day as that was the date in 1983 that Buhari toppled the democratic government of President Shehu Shagari�.

This generated some uproar among other senators before Senator Barawu Jubrin (Kano North) called Abaribe to order.

In the House of Representatives, however, the declaration of June 12 as Democracy Day by the president created divisions among members of the lower legislative chamber during plenary session yesterday.

The commotion followed a motion moved by Hon. Wale Raji (APC, Lagos) on the declaration of June 12 as the Democracy Day by the president.

The motion sought to commend Buhari for recognising June 12 as the Democracy Day in Nigeria. It further urged the president to direct the INEC to release the full resulta of the June 12, 1999 presidential election and declare Abiola presidentelect posthumously, with a view to resolving all issues relating to the election and completing the history of June 12, 1993 presidential election in the country.

He said the 1993 presidential election was generally acknowledged to be peaceful with large a turn out of voters and was adjudged by the international observer groups as the freest, fairest and most credible in the democratic history of the country.

Raji, however, expressed concern that in spite of the commendable integrity of the election, it was annulled by the military government of Gen. Babangida, while the country was thrown into a serious political turmoil, leading to another military era which lasted till 1999.

He further was also worried that the since 1999, successive governments at the federal level had failed to acknowledge and celebrate June 12 as the real Democracy Day and rather continued to celebrate May 29 as Democracy Day. Speaking in support of the motion, Hon. Kayode Oladele (APC, Ogun) described June 12, 1993 as a watershed in the electoral history of the country, noting that the annulment was the genesis of the political crisis that bedevilled

the country for four years.

He further commended Buhari for recognising the day at last, pointing out that the day remained a binding point for Nigerians.

Hon. Chris Azubogu (PDP, Anambra) also supported the motion and demanded that the electoral umpire during the June 12 elections, Dr. Humphrey Nwosu should also be honoured for his role in the 1993 election saga.

In his intervention, Hon. Edward Pwajok (APC, Plateau) said the principal schedule of the Constitution would have to be amended to formally change May 29 to June 12 as the new day for celebration of democracy.

He said there was no need to cause INEC to release the controversial election results but advised anyone interested to simply apply to the relevant agencies under the Freedom of Information Act to access the results.

At this point, the Speaker of the House, Hon. Yakubu Dogara drew members’ attention to the fact that there was a court injunction against the release of the June 12 results, which was never appealed.

Nonetheless, Hon. Rotimi Agunsoye commended the president for the recognition of June 12 as Democracy Day, stressing that the development showed that the country was moving towards the right direction with the fear of God. Hon. Mojeed Alabi (APC, Osun) described Buhari’s declaration as “a handshake across the Niger�, adding that he deserved commendation.

He said that until now, Osun was the only state in the federation to have declared June 12 a public holiday.

He, however, objected to the prayer to declare Abiola presidentelect, when there was already a sitting president, warning that it could create some legal issues.

Instead, he said the results of the election could be released for public records.

Also, contributing to the debate, the Chief Whip, Hon. Alhassan Ado Doguwa (APC, Kano) who claimed to have been arrested during the June 12, 1993 election crisis, commended the singular action of the president on the issue and appealed to members not to see the June 12 as a subject of contention.

Similarly, Hon. Toby Okechukwu (PDP, Enugu) said the day symbolised positive things for the country if the people were willing to work together.

He said no one should challenge

the effort to honour Abiola, adding that all those who played a role in during the struggle should be equally honoured.

But the debate took a dramatic twist when Hon. Nicholas Ossai (PDP, Delta), though commending Buhari’s action on June 12, he accused him of usurping the powers of the National Assembly to declare a public holiday.

Citing the Constitution, he argued that declaration of a public holiday is supported by an Act of parliament and not through public declaration.

However, his argument was countered by Dogara who also read the relevant sections of the Principal Schedule of the Constitution which confers the president with the powers to appoint any day as public holiday.

With that, Ossai reluctantly submitted to the speaker, saying he had been properly guided, but stressed that Buhari’s action might have been good but his intention was wrong. “But how do you prove his intention,� Dogara queried, directing Ossai to take his seat.

Also, speaking against the motion, Hon. Adams Jagaban (PDP, Kaduna) accused the president of usurping the power of the returning officer to make a proclamation on June 12.

According to him, the returning officer at the time did not announce or declare Abiola the winner of the election.

But Dogara pointed out that Buhari only referred to Abiola as the “presumed winner� and not otherwise.

At this point, Hon. Ahman Pategi (APC, Kwara) said May 29 was an Act of parliament and remained the Democracy Day, adding that the president cannot alter the day by mere declaration.

Hon. Raphael Igbokwe (APC, Imo) also raised the need to address the seeming conflict in the Public Holidays Act, which is a subsidiary legislation to Principal Schedule of the Constitution.

By this time, the House had turned rowdy as members’ arguments filled the chamber, leading to a situation whereby the speaker had to hit the gavel repeatedly to restore order.

After consultation with some principal officers and other ranking members, Dogara managed to calm frayed nerves and restored sanity in the chamber.

He said the House should always ensure that it does things properly and not force the public to interpret its actions.

Falana Faults Belgore Meanwhile, human rights lawyer and activist, Mr. Femi Falana (SAN), has faulted the former Chief Justice of Nigeria (CJN), Justice Alfa Belgore who had questioned the legality of the conferment of the posthumous national honours on Abiola and Fawehinmi.

Immediately Buhari made the announcement honouring both men, Belgore, who was the chairman of the 2016 National Honours Awards List, warned that the National Honour Act supporting the conferment of national awards on deserving individuals does not provide for posthumous awards.

Belgore argued that posthumous awards could only be conferred on fallen military personnel who had died in the discharge of their duties for the Nigerian nation.

However, Falana said Belgore, in taking the position, did not refer to any section of the National Honours Act, or any law that was violated

by Buhari.

According to him, “The Honourable Justice Alfa Belgore, a retired Chief Justice of Nigeria, was reported to have questioned the legality of the decision of President Buhari to confer posthumous awards on Chief M KO Abiola and Chief Gani Fawehinmi (SAN). “Curiously, his Lordship did not refer to any section of the National Honours Act or any other law that has been violated by the president.

In like manner, some persons have alleged that the June 12 holiday declared by the president is illegal on the grounds that the approval of the National Assembly was not sought and obtained. “With profound respect to the Honourable Justice Alfa Belgore, the National Honours Act has not prohibited or restricted the powers of the president to confer national honours on deserving Nigerian citizens, dead or alive. “No doubt, Paragraph 2 of the

T H I S D AY ˾ FRIDAY JUNE 8, 2018

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COMMENT

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

GOODBYE WOLFE, NEW JOURNALIST

Monday Philips Ekpe pays tribute to Tom Wolfe, author and chief priest of new journalism

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hanks to CNN’s Christiane Amanpour who paid an elaborate tribute to Tom Wolfe last weekend, I had not heard that the man who put the concept of new or literary Journalism in perspective had passed on a week earlier. With that, it became my historic responsibility to salute the author of the definitive book, The New Journalism, upon which my MA thesis (The Role of New Journalism in Monitoring the Current Democratic Process in Nigeria‌) was anchored years ago. I still recall with fondness the assistance of my lecturer, Mr. Pius Omole of the University of Ibadan, in that regard. Because of its centrality to my work, I was about to order the book from abroad when he heard about it. He rode his bicycle to his house with a speed I considered unsafe for his age to fetch me his own copy. It was a Deux ex machina.

Born in 1930 in the United States of America as Thomas Kennerly Wolfe Jr, he devoted his time especially in the 1960s and 1970s to the revitalisation of journalism. He did that by criticising the American novel, something he insisted had come to a dead end, that the news media were much more relevant to personal intellectual enjoyment and social engineering. His campaign was ambitious: Use techniques that had been exclusive to fiction, particularly subjective point of view and lengthy dialogue, in news reporting and analysis. Wolfe was equipped for his assignment as he was inspired by established novelists some of whom had lived centuries earlier. It was Daniel Defoe in the 18th Century and then Charles Dickens and Mark Twain in the 19th. Dickens, the foremost proponent of the English social novel of that era started his own writing career as a reporter for The Morning Chronicle, The True Sun and The Mirror of Parliament, Miscellany and Household Words.

Dickens’ reportorial skill reflected in his more notable works, namely Oliver Twist, Great Expectations, A Tale of Two Cities and David Copperfield. Also, Twain, arguably the best known American novelist of that era, was first a journalist before publishing his bestsellers – The Adventure of Tom Sawyer and The Adventures of Huckleberry Finn.

Stephen Crane was there at the dawn of the 20th Century to receive the baton from his forebears who had inadvertently charted a path for the revolution that Wolfe was to champion decades later. Some other members of the literary journalism gang were Truman Capote, Norman Mailer and Joan Didion but Wolfe it was who institutionalised the Movement as he exploited social realism which formed the overriding doctrine of the writings of his mentors.

An enigma and non-conformist, Tom Wolfe took journalism, a fairly conservative and predictable practice at the time in terms of writing, by the throat and tried to influence its practitioners to take the seat that had been occupied by writers of fictional works. His manifesto for the battle

HIS CAMPAIGN WAS AMBITIOUS: USE TECHNIQUES THAT HAD BEEN EXCLUSIVE TO FICTION, PARTICULARLY SUBJECTIVE POINT OF VIEW AND LENGTHY DIALOGUE, IN NEWS REPORTING AND ANALYSIS

had four strands: One, instead of the moment-by-moment accounts and also background information that journalists were taught to employ in reporting, he was convinced that readers’ interests were best served by recreating for them events witnessed first-hand by reporters.

Two, even though interviewing people and describing events were crucial, focusing on the surrounding or environment was to be greatly valued and pursued. He called it, “status details.� By that, Wolfe was enthroning aesthetics. Three, rather than simply chronicling facts about people and their statements, they should be treated like fictive characters, in which case their thought-processes, motivation and other metaphysical elements should be laid bare to the reading, listening or viewing public. And four, didactic, prolonged dialogue with relevant people, according to him, held the key to satisfying the curiosity and communication needs of mass media audiences.

What arsenal! The New Journalism published in 1973 announced to those who doubted his resolve that he really meant to change mainstream journalism substantially. The legendary American author and journalist successfully challenged the status quo and left the scene a global hero. Salil Tripathi, a veteran Indian journalist, dramatised Wolfe’s linguistic and journalistic rebellion in his parting eulogy: “Who’s afraid of Tom Wolfe? Not us. Ignore strictures on length.

Experiment with the structure. Forget rules. Capitalise Random Words if you Like. See the page as a canvas. Paint words. With vivid imagery so that they become windows, no longer bricks, and, beyond the window, let your imagination soar. Get. The. Facts. Right. Be accurate.

But don’t kill the story by piling factsuponfactsuponfacts, making the text dead. Use the facts to authenticate the story. But imagine, imagine what your character feels like. Have a plot. Massage the language, g-e-n-t-l-y. And make the character credible‌. Wolfe taught us to look for the detail that tells. Use the skills of fiction to make your non-fiction more real.�

What sort of reality could this chief priest of unorthodox journalism be faced with now at the moment? He once revealed this about one of his characters: “There came to him an image of man’s whole life upon the earth. It seemed to him that all man’s life was like a tiny turf of flame that blazed out briefly in an illimitable and terrifying darkness, and that all man’s grandeur, tragic dignity, his heroic glory, came from the brevity and smallness of this flame. He knew his life was little and would be extinguished, and that only darkness was immense and everlasting. And he knew that he would die with defiance on his lips, and that the shout of his denial would ring with the last pulsing of his heart into the maw of his engulfing night.�

For Wolfe, it has to be amazing light, at least in the hearts and minds of his disciples and fans around the world for whom he has made journalism new.

BALANCE AND BUHARI’S DEMOCRACY DAY SPEECH There is need to acknowledge the achievements of the Buhari administration, writes Ikeogu Oke

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ome of the reactions that have trailed President Muhammadu Buhari’s Democracy Day speech did not disappoint in their cynicism, especially those posted on various social media platforms.

If you could map the character of those behind the reactions, you would notice a consistency of hostility towards the current federal government which makes them antagonise it with predictability.

This suggests a bias that should naturally render their opinions suspect or compel us to consider them non-credible. And they are not alone, for as their alter ego are those in whose eyes the government cannot say or do anything wrong.

These groups belong to two extreme dispositions, and have sometimes sarcastically called themselves Jonathanians and Buharideens, as fanatical loyalists of former President Goodluck Jonathan and President Muhammadu Buhari, and their parties and governments respectively.

The fact is that the cauldron of hate that was the 2015 election continues to steam in the aftermath of the polls under a fire continuously being stoked by lack of patriotism. This has ensured that some of those whose side lost the election do not put the nation first.

And this, I think, explains why they have responded with the type of hostility that sees nothing agreeable in the President’s Democracy Day speech even in those instances involving the mention of verifiable facts and figures, and obvious improvements in the nation’s infrastructure as in the transport sector, specifically the railway system.

Some of these reactions, coming even from identifiable individuals to whom one would

ordinarily ascribe respect for objectivity, have dismissed the whole speech as a catalogue of false claims, or the delusory wish list of an out-of-touch president.

But how can such cynicism be justified in the face of the speech having said, among other things: “The country achieved 5,222.3 MW representing the highest peak of power generated onto the national grid and delivered to customers in December, 2017.�

The above claim was preceded by the one below: “In the area of power generation, Nigerians from all parts of the country continue to report better power supply and less use of generators. This underscores the effectiveness of the methodical plan to deliver incremental and uninterrupted power supply to our homes, markets, offices and factories.�

It is a vice of citizenship and a perversion of the idea of holding a government to account to deny it credit for any achievement, regardless of our political leanings or party affiliation. And patriotism, which should make us desist from such act, should be deemed superior to such leanings and affiliations.

It is understandable if bona fide members of opposition parties do not seem to see anything good in the government from which they would be normally expected to wrest power and are not supposed to help it retain it by any means, including speaking well about its achievements. But for what should be normal “political animals�, with no formal party affiliations, it is a type of cynicism to be discouraged.

This is not only because of the capacity such cynicism to demoralize a country’s leadership but also for its tendency to portray those behind it as untruthful or prejudiced observers and commentators on their nation’s affairs. Of

course, they might think they only undermine their victims even as their credibility suffers as a result of their conduct.

What, indeed, can justify an outright dismissal of a speech that makes the first of the claims I have quoted above as “a catalogue of false claims�, for instance, even though the country has generated its highest quantum of electricity – reported by The Punch newspaper – as 5,090 megawatts for April 26, 2018 (link: http://punchng.com/power-generation-hits5090mw-highest-in-2018/). And though this value is not the exact one given in the speech, it still represents the highest value of power generation in our country.

And I think it would be a fairer and patriotic response, and a reflection of balance, or objectivity, to acknowledge its achievement as the peak value so far, and give credit to the government under which it was achieved, while pointing out the discrepancy in the value given in the speech in good faith, which, I think, patriotic citizens should always show towards their country regardless of the government in power.

Of course it may not be literally true that “Nigerians from all parts of the country continue to report better power supply and less use of generators.� But doesn’t the enthusiasm of the implied self-adulation, the hype, which governments engage in worldwide make such exaggeration understandable?

Besides, one would expect that an improvement in power availability would create a trickledown effect that would lead to some Nigerians reporting improved power supply and reducing the use of their generators.

But ascribing this nascent appreciation of the improvement in power availability to “Nigerian from all parts of the country� is

also an overstretch that should be noted by the apolitical and patriotic citizen without the harsh imputation of falsehood reflected in the said hostile responses.

Unlike some of the reactions have made it seem, inaccurate information does not necessarily reflect falsehood, though this may not apply to cases where the information is interpreted in bad faith. But the difference in the figure of the peak power generation – which I consider a mistake of fact – shows how those behind such fact need to verify it before putting it in the public domain through such an important speech to avoid embarrassment.

I made my first train journey in my 50 years of existence from Kubwa to Rigasa a few months ago. Besides courting the thrill or disappointment of a first timer, I was keen on verifying the claim of the functionality of the current railway system.

As I said in “Travelling by Rail�, a poem I later published in the Daily Trust of March 11, 2018 (link: https://www.dailytrust.com.ng/ poetic-licence-travelling-by-rail--from-kubwato-rigasa.html), I did not find the state of the railway station at Kubwa quite satisfactory, with no electricity and running water. But the train ride to Rigasa was safe and the train comfortable. Also, there was electricity at the railway station at the Rigasa end, symbolizing light at the end of the tunnel for me.

Should anyone with this experience accept the dismissal of a claim in the Democracy Day speech that there have been improvements in the railway system under the current federal government, if the person is interested in balance?

Oke, winner of the 2017 Nigeria Prize for Literature, wrote from Abuja

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EDITORIAL BEYOND THE MINNA JAILBREAK The prisons need more attention

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he number of jailbreaks across the country increased last Sunday night with an attack on Minna Medium Security Prison which led to the death of a prison ofďŹ cer and a motorbike rider as well as the escape of several of the inmates. That we have lost count of the number of jailbreaks in the country in recent years not only tells a compelling story about the state of insecurity in our country, it also depicts the level of laxity in the system. Therefore, beyond investigating the Minna jailbreak and making efforts to re-arrest the prisoners who have escaped, it is also important to review the conditions that encourage such morbid desperation.

Indeed, as we have argued in the past, the series of jail breaks reect the lack of attention to the prison system in general and its infrastructure in particular.

While 182 of the THE HORRIFIC escaped prisoners CONDITIONS PREVAILING from Minna are still IN NIGERIAN PRISONS at large, Minister of ARE SCANDALOUSLY Interior, Lt.-Gen. DEGRADING TO HUMANITY Abdulrahman SUCH THAT AFTER Dambazau (rtd) who visited the SPENDING LONG JAIL TERMS, INMATES COME OUT prison on Monday AS HARDENED CRIMINALS attributed the attack to a serious AND TERRORS TO THE security breach.

SOCIETY “Among the escapees were two condemned criminals whose death warrants were supposed to have been signed by a governor today (Monday). That is probably part of the motivation for this prison break�, said Dambazau.

Nearly all our prisons in the country were built by either the colonialists or First Republic politicians and they were designed for smaller population of inmates and a different type of criminals. These were originally prisons for petty thieves of livestock, minor infractions and light felonies. Their populations were also meant to be small and more manageable. That perhaps explains why in the 60s, unarmed prison

Letters to the Editor

wardens would escort prisoners out for community service and watch them sing as they cut the grass in hospital premises. The wardens then carried only batons!

However, the sociology of crime and punishment has been altered by the realities of the times. Criminals are now many, varied and generally hardened.

The nature of crime has also changed from stealing goats and chickens to robbing banks, emptying state treasuries and kidnapping for ransom, etc. With that, our notion of punishment has migrated from correction to something more punitive while most of the prisons are now overcrowded and ill-maintained.

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ore importantly, the horriďŹ c conditions prevailing in Nigerian prisons are scandalously degrading to humanity such that after spending long jail terms, inmates come out as hardened criminals and terrors to the society. Meanwhile, most of the prisons are archaic with statistics and proďŹ les of prisoners kept in old and worn out ďŹ les. Therefore, ďŹ nding themselves in the hell hole without speedy trial, the prisoners are so desperate to do anything, including the risk of being killed, to regain their freedom through jailbreaks.

Tackling such a challenge requires fresh thinking.

In Nigeria today, a detainee who carries the toga of Awaiting Trial (AT) may well spend a decade waiting for a prison term that could have lasted for less than 12 months. This is due to a combination of poor investigation by police, delays by counsel, lack of ďŹ rmness on the part of the magistrates and judges, as well as the dysfunction that hampers the prison efďŹ ciency in transporting the inmates to and from the courts for their trials. More importantly, the physical structure of most of these colonial era prisons has become so dilapidated that all that a group of determined prisoners and detainees need do is give the imsy wall a little nudge and it would collapse.

What this ugly scenario presents is the need for the relevant authorities within the judiciary, the legislature, the police, the bar and other critical stakeholders to come together and ďŹ nd a better framework for reforming our prison system.

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.

CAN OURYOUTHS WIN POLITICAL POWER?

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outh or youthfulness, which could be compared to a flower that blooms and blossoms in its time, and then withers away, is a period of ingenuity and creativity. It’s a known fact that gifted young people do reach the zenith of their endeavours and careers during their youthful ages. Chinua Achebe, one of the founding fathers of the modern African literature, wrote his Magnus Opus, Things Fall Apart, when he was in his 20s. And, another contemporary of Chinua Achebe, Wole Soyinka, wrote excellent literary works that cover all the genres of literature during his youthful day(s). Little wonder he won the noble prize for literature. More so, Matthew Mbu, a politician in the first republic, became a parliamentarian at the young age of 26.

But sadly, and regrettably, in Nigeria, today’s youths do not evince and display the qualities and character traits of people who can transform Nigeria, holistically and positively. Our young people who are socialised and initiated into our egregious culture of corruption, are rapists, cultists, religious fanatics, and ethnic bigots.

Since their parents bought SSCE certificates and university admissions for them to study courses like Law, Medicine, Accountancy, and Engineering, they could not cope with the rigours of university education , being mentally unprepared for the mental –taxing university education. Consequently, they’re compelled to join cult groups on campuses across the country.

Gone are the days when students, who are the leaders of tomorrow, protested against bad and unfavourable government policies. Now, they acquiesce in government policies that will bring suffering and economic hardship to the masses. And they do visit our political leaders to show solidarity with them when those leaders are not offering us good political leadership and qualitative representation in the national assembly. Aren’t the students, who are leaders of tomorrow, sycophants?

Commendably, President Buhari has signed into law the not- too- young-to-

run bill. But can a young person, who is a philosopher- king in the mould of Emmanuel Macron of France, emerge on our political landscape as our national leader? Given the dysfunctional state of our universities, they’ve not been churning out hot-headed young people with probity and political cum economic ideologies, who can offer alternatives to our egregious system of doing things. And, a majority of Nigerian youths, who are destitute of positive morality, probity, and intellectual fecundity, believe that it is not the turn of the current crop of leaders in the country to do good for themselves through their perpetration of corrupt deeds. So, can our youths band together to oust the recyled old politicians from the loft of political power and change the existing political order when the youths are not intellectually and morally equipped for that undertaking ?

But, to dislodge them from power and change the existing political order will be a herculean and arduous task for young Nigerians. Because our politics is money – based, and not issue- based. Many a young person with moral scruples, good education, and leadership qualities cannot win elective post in Nigeria. They are without huge financial war chest with which to prosecute their electoral and political battles. So, today, young politicians, who are in the pay of political king makers and godfathers do mortgage their restrictive mechanisms (consciences) to their political godfathers, and do their biddings , which are inimical to the growth of the country.

In order that our country should grow, and that a young person should become our national leader in the future, we should do away with the current class of politicians, and make a paradigm shift regarding our way of politicking. In this regard, issue- based politics should replace mercantile politics. And the electorate should be orientated to know that the sovereignty of the country belongs to them as they can vote out a bad leader, and vote in a good one with their votes.

Chiedu Uche Okoye, Uruowulu-Obosi, Anambra State

GIVE NIGERIANS WATER TO DRINK

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he recent executive bill seeking an Act to establish a central regulatory framework for the water resources sector for effective management, accessibility, and conservation of Nigeria’s surface and ground water resources, has split law makers along regional and ethnic lines. The effectiveness of the water regulatory framework may hardly convince pessimists and lawmakers who share the view of true federalism.

Government should focus on partnership with the state governments to meet the SDGs goal 6.1. That goal aims at achieving equitable access to safe and affordable drinking water for everyone before 2030. If they do this, they reduce the risk facing about 69 million Nigerians mostly in rural communities who are unable to access potable drinking water.

If government gives Nigerians potable water, we avert cholera.

Charles Iyare, ANEEJ, Benin

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T H I S D AY ˾ FRIDAY, JUNE 8, 2018

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POLITICS

Group Politics Editor Tobi Soniyi Email tobi.soniyi@thisdaylive.com 07054786260 SMS ONLY

Al-Makura at a Crossroads Although the Nasarawa State governor, Umaru Tanko Al-Makura has a grip on the political structures of the All Progressives Congress in his state, he seems to have difficulty choosing a successor from among his loyalists, reports Emmanuel Ukumba

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hile some governors were edged out during the All Progressives Congress’ recently held congresses, Nasarawa State governor, Umaru Tanko Al-Makura was able to consolidate his power base in the state.

He effectively retained his party’s structures in the state. With that, comes the power and influence to determine who succeeds him.

With over 14 aspirants jostling for the APC’s ticket, the race for the 2019 Nasarawa State governorship is already generating tension within the camp of the ruling party.

Al-Makura, like other governors in the country would, no doubt, want to determine who succeeds him among those who have shown interest under the APC platform come 2019.

Efforts by the aspirants to position their loyalists in strategic positions during the recently conducted wards, local governments and state congresses of the APC failed as the governor outmanoeuvred all of them and succeeded in installing people who are loyal to him in the wards, council and state’s executives. The party’s structure in Nasarawa is under his control.The aspirants will now have to do his bidding to win his sympathy and support.

Governor Al-Makura had four years ago planted all the APC structures in Nasarawa state from the wards to state levels. Recently, at a stakeholders meeting in the Government House, Lafia, prior to the congresses to elect new executives of the party at all level, the governor reportedly directed that all executives of the party in the state be returned unopposed.

The governor’s directive was complied with without hesitation by members of the party during the aforementioned congresses in the state. This development has foreclosed the chances of any governorship aspirant picking the governorship ticket against the governor’s wish.

The governor used the exercise to affirm his grip on the structures of the party in the state.

For those aspiring to be governor on the platform of the APC, their fates now lie in the hands of Al-Makura.

In Keffi Local Government Area of the state, Arch Shehu Tukur, Salisu Maikasua and Aliyu Ahmed Wadada both governorships aspirants on the APC platform were schemed out by the forces of Senator Abdullahi Adamu and Governor Al-Makura as the aspirants could not install a single executive member of the party ahead of their ambitions to govern the state in 2019.

But in Akwanga Local Government Area, the state deputy governor, Silas Ali Agara, who is equally aspiring to succeed his principal took charge of the congress as all the party structures retained were his loyalists, whereas Engineer Abdullahi Sule completely lost out as he failed to get any of his loyalists elected into the executive.

In Nasarawa Eggon Local Government Area, the leading governorship candidate of the APC in the state, Barrister Danladi Envuluanza, had a poor outing at the congress. He did not secure a single executive of his party.

The same fate befell the state deputy speaker, Hon Godiya Akwashiki, who equally lost out in the party structure, while the north central zonal chairman of the APC, Hon. Zakari Idde, had his structures in the local government retained.

Also shut out during the congress was another leading governorship contender in the party and member of the House of Representatives representing Nasarawa/

Umaru Tanko Al-Makura

Toto federal constituency, Hon. Mohammed Ja’afar who was sidelined in the political scheming in his Toto Local Government Area where he was unable to produce a single member of the executive.

Investigation by THISDAY Politics revealed that in view of the prevailing political structures in the state chapter of APC, only Al-Makura could determine the next APC governorship candidate in 2019 general election.

Under Al-Makura, APC in Nasarawa State has successfully outperformed the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), the All Progressives Grand Alliance (APGA) and the Social Democratic Party (SDP).

However, as the governor begins the remaining year of his administration, he is in a dilemma over how best to handle the emergence of the party’s governorship flag bearer for the 2019 general election.

Indications that the party may not find it easy arriving at the choice of who to present as its governorship candidate in 2019

With over 14 aspirants jostling for the APC’s ticket, the race for the 2019 Nasarawa State governorship is already generating tension within the camp of the ruling party

polls emerged late last year when Engineer Abdullahi Sule, the managing director of Dangote Sugar Refinery, led the Dangote Group to the state with the establishment of mouthwatering agro-allied industries.

Many view the move as a gesture that is likely to influence voters in Nasarawa to support his ambition to succeed Al-Makura in 2019.

Therefore, Al-Makura was said to be treading with caution when it comes to his support for the engineer as his successor in order not to receive a protest vote from the larger Nasarawa community that might end the reign of APC in Nasarawa State.

Also the coming into the governorship race of Mr Danladi Envuluanza, the immediate past secretary of Nigeria Judicial Council and a long time friend of the governor, as well as the state deputy governor, Silas Agara; who is equally on the governor’s neck for support for the APC ticket and who has been 100 percent loyal to the governor and the traditional institutions in the state, is said to have put the governor in a state of confusion.

Sources claimed that these developments have altered certain permutations on ground and subsequently introduced a new dimensions into the ongoing search for a governorship candidate of the party, even though he (Al-Makura) has the entire political structure of the party in his hands.

Unfortunately for Ja’afar, his cordial relationship with Governor Al-Makura has gone sour in recent time, therefore it is most likely the governor will withdraw his support from him. With the support of the governor withdrawn, it will be difficult for him to push his ambition through.

Political analysts in state believe Hon.

Ahmed Aliyu Wadada will probably meet a brick wall in his quest of getting Al-Makura support to clinch the APC gubernatorial ticked as he was said not to be in the thick of things in his zone as he has gone under the shadows of Senator Abdullahi Adamu whom he has attacked viciously in the past.

Many also see Wadada as arrogant. Others cited his verbal attacks against past political leaders and even on the incumbent governor whom he was alleged to have described as a visionless governor lacking in policy direction.

The decision to contest the governorship seat by the assembly deputy speaker, Godiya Akwashiki, on the platform of the APC might have already been regarded by pessimists as the greatest joke of the century due to his indecisive tendencies on matters connected to state affairs. This may explain why Governor Al-Makura is not taking his candidature with any seriousness.

One new entrant into the Nasarawa State gubernatorial race on the platform of the APC that surprised many followers of politics in the state was that of Dauda Shuaibu Kigbu, a retired federal permanent secretary, who had worked in several federal ministries.

Kigbu’s decision to join the race has again compounded Governor Al-Makura’s decision as he continues to ruminate over who among the aspirant will be the right choice that would be accepted by the Nasarawa electorate.

As the governor intensifies his search for a sellable governorship candidate who will be very loyal to him and sustain his legacies, there are indications that he might have decided to spread his dragnet beyond those who have openly declared their intention to contest the APC governorship ticket ahead of 2019 election.

Some sources said that the governor was seriously considering his commissioner for education, Hon Aliyu Tijjani, and or the permanent secretary in the state ministry of Local Government, Mr. Bala Sani, for the race. This, according to investigation, is because the governor does not want to offend Envuluanza, Sule and his deputy, Agara hence the need to look elsewhere for a neutral person.

Tijjani had earlier before now nursed the ambition of going to the House of Representatives in 2019, but with this alleged permutation by the governor, that ambition remains in the cooler.

For now, the talks about who will be the party’s flag bearer remain in the realm of mere speculations as the governor and his close associates are daily thinking on how to procure the best man for the job ahead.

Nevertheless, the threat to the party’s peace stems from alleged hidden plan by some powerful forces to introduce either the state commissioner for education, Ahmed Aliyu Tijjani, or the permanent secretary in the state ministry for Local Government, Mr. Bala Sani, in the last minute into the governorship race and impose any of them on the party. But none of these two have publicly declared their interest in the 2019 governorship race.

The ease with which the retention of all the party structures sailed through without any objection clearly shows that any APC gubernatorial aspirant must get the governor’s blessing to emerge the candidate of the party in Nasarawa state, and the development has rattled all the governorship aspirants under the APC. The governor ’s action also introduced a new fear; the fear of the possibility of Governor Al-Makura imposing a candidate on the party.

T H I S D AY ˾ FRIDAY, JUNE 8, 2018

18

POLITICS

PERSPECTIVE

Challenges of Governance in Imo Sam Amadi explains why development has remained elusive in Imo State in the recent past

A

s Nigeria prepares for a new beginning after the 2019 elections it is important to consider the affairs of the states. They have been much more remiss in democratic accountability and effective management than the federal government. Whilst Nigeria’s civil society and its international confederates are helping to build the capacity of the federal government for democratic and effective governance, state governments are left to degrade into incompetent and corrupt aristocracies.

There is no better example of such an incompetent and corrupt aristocracy than Imo State. Anyone who has even a passing interest in politics will easily acknowledge that Imo State is witnessing gross mismanagement. The Rochas Okorocha’s administration has turned what was the fastest industrializing state under Sam Mbakwe into both a basket case and the exemplar of ‘leadership as theatre’. To understand how much Imo State has fallen under Governor Okorocha, consider these statistics. In 2011, when Okorocha became governor, Imo’s Internally Generated Revenue (IGR) was N5,8bn. In 2017, it was N5.9bn. In 2011, Jigawa recorded IGR of N1.5bn and grew it to N5.1bn in 2017. Enugu, in 2011, posted IGR N7.3bn and grew it to N24bn in 2017.

From these statistics, Jigawa was better governed than Imo State in the period under review. It added over N4bn whilst Imo added only N100mn. Enugu, a comparable state, added more than N14bn in the same period. For 7 years, Rochas could only add a paltry N100m to the revenues of the state.

IGR tells the story the quality of leadership in the state. An entrepreneurial administration will generate wealth, especially for a state like Imo with incredible natural resources and boosts the highest literacy rate in Nigeria (98%). That Imo is one of the 12 states listed as bankrupt by the ‘Economics Confidential’ is not surprising. You cannot create wealth when a retarded and highly idiosyncratic urban renewal program is destroying markets and commercial facilities in the state.

The statistics are the same for human capital indicators, especially in education attainment in Imo. Before 2011 Imo states was a leading performer in education in terms of WAEC results. Today, Imo lags most Southeast states in education attainments measured by examination results. The failure of governance in Imo and its concomitant impact on social and economic welfare of Imo people could be a pivot to think about the adverse impact of bad governance at the subnational level and what it means for economic and social development in Nigeria.

As we rush towards new general election in 2019 we need to think through the underlying causes of development failure in states like Imo. As candidates position themselves as solutions to these development maladies we ought to first stop and reflect on what is causing development failure. Are we suffering from wrong choice of policy or failure of leadership recruitment? How do we fix Imo? By changing the chief executive or generally changing the politics and policy environment of governance in Imo? Oftentimes, the most pressing impulse is to hit the personnel change button without due consideration of what personality failure to cure to reverse leadership failure. The problem with change is that oftentimes it is not properly conceived, and the medicine is often worse than the disease. Imolites now know that Rochas model of ‘leadership as theatre and criminality’ is far more insufferable than Ohakim’s slightly deranged leadership.

Okorocha’s notable failure in Imo State has spawned a cottage industry of aspirants scheming to replace him in 2019. It is like a déjà vu. In 2011, the Imo people got pissed with Governor Ikedi Ohakim and his disoriented governance and embraced

Sam Amadi

Rochas Okorocha. In the frenzy of ensuring that Ikedi Ohakim was punished for allegedly assaulting a Catholic Priest, people lost their senses and swept Rochas Okorocha into power without scrutinizing his credential for the job or understanding the political economy of Ikedi Ohakim’s failure. We are back to the past. All forms of conmen with oversized audacity and diminished integrity and competence are all over the map, hoping to ride the crest of anti-Okorocha sentiment to gubernatorial position in Imo. So, the question is what does Imo really need in 2019: change of politics, change of development policies or just change of personnel? What is the relationship because personnel and policy choices? And how do they relate to development failure? This brings up the enduring controversy in development economics about the relationship between policy and leadership. Is transformative change a result of ‘a strong man’ appearing on the scene or the result of consistent application of the right polices, even by not too significant leadership?

Is it effective leadership or right policy that determines good development outcomes? The East Asian successful economies provide a context for this debate in economic development. In the 1990s the World Bank began to pay attention to the ‘economic miracle’ in the East Asian and started shap-

Experience in Nigerian politics confirms that it is changing politics, and not just changing leaders, that matter for development

ing the narrative. First is a concern whether the success attests to the primacy of free market or the necessity of an effective state.

The World Bank’s World Development Report (1987) and The East Asian Miracle (1993) tilt the narrative in favour of the ‘Washington Consensus” on the miracle of free market. Robert Wade’s Governing the Market: Economic Development in the East Asian debunks the ‘free market’ myth and restates the role of the state in governing the market to achieve sustainable growth.

The debate also turned on whether we need wise men or smart policies. If you are a fan of Lew Kuan Yew, the founding Prime Minister who transformed Singapore from a Third to a First World economy, you would likely argue that it is wise, and perhaps, dictatorial leadership, that makes the difference. If you are an admirer of General Park who transformed South Korea in the 1960s, you would argue that it was wise choice of policies that made South Korea, in a burst of energy in less than three decades, move from grossly underdeveloped country (lower in Per Capita Income than Ghana in the 1960s) to the eleventh most prosperous country in the World by Gross Domestic Product (GDP).

Joe studwell in his book, How Asia Work: Success and Failure in the World’s Most Dynamic Region (2013), argues that the outstanding economic performance of the East Asia sub-region, compared to the Southeast Asia, is because the former, and not the later, did three things: ‘household farming, export oriented manufacturing and closely controlled finance’. In analyzing the development divergence between successful and unsuccessful East Asian economies, Studwell highlighted the fact of how different leaders made different policy choices. What is interesting in his analysis of the divergence between South Korea and Malaysia is how

the biographical antecedents of General Park and Dr Mahathir determined the policy choices and the development trajectory of the two countries.

What emerges is that changing leadership is not as critical as changing the politics that underlines choice of leaders. In his recent book, The Development Dilemma: Security, Prosperity and A Return to History (Princeton, 2017), Harvard’s Robert Bates undertakes a historical survey of the political determination of economic development and argues that “the central issue is thus: how power is used and in particular, whether it is employed to provide security and to underpin prosperity or to imperil and despoil”.

The politics of leadership recruitment and the biographical antecedents of those who took over the reins of power determine the divergence in development outcomes.

Experience in Nigerian politics confirms that it is changing politics, and not just changing leaders, that matter for development. Lagos State seems to be in a virtuous cycle of sustainable development. There was a pivotal moment when a Post-June 12 social movement swept that state. Tinubu, Fashola and Ambode are products of that significantly different politics. Anambra State can count its moment of divergence from the status quo when Dr. Ngige quarrelled with his political godfathers. This unscripted political wind aided the triumph of parsimonious and managerial Peter Obi. Obi inaugurated a new politics, slightly different from the intellectually vacuous and administratively inept leadership that prevails in the Southeast. Anambra now has a new founding that continues to define its politics and administration.

Anywhere in the 36 states of Nigeria that we can point to significant positive development outcomes, we can pinpoint a shade of new politics, creating incentives for the emergence of governors with some technocrat credentials to thereafter deepen the transformative moment through effective leadership.

The implication of this analysis for Imo State is that the present uprising against Governor Rochas could be deceptive. It can distract from a more critical challenge: the need to change the culture of politics as criminality in Imo State. For more than a decade, Imo politics has come under the control of established 419 operatives who have established a culture of audacity, malfeasance and incompetence. It is a conspiratorial class reinforcing its stranglehold at every turn.

We can point out when 419 operatives took over. They populate the political platforms in Imo State, presently drawing daggers against each other. No matters who wins the battle, the outcomes remain largely the same.

In 1960s a medical doctor with a development mindset, Dr. Michael Okpara, made Eastern Nigeria the fastest growing economy in the world, leveraging on two of the three recipes that worked for East Asian economies: agrarian reform and export-oriented industrialization. In early 1980s a civil rights lawyer, Sam Mbakwe, made Imo state the fastest industrializing state in Nigeria, even establishing the first Independent Power Plant, decades before power sector reform in Nigeria.

Whether it is in East Asia, or Eastern Nigeria, or Imo, or Lagos, or Anambra, the lesson is clear: the nature of politics determines the leaders who get to power.

And when new politics produces leaders with the biographical antecedents to redefine the use of political power from predation to production, development outcomes change.

Changing leaders without changing politicsthe culture and character of those who use power- produces largely the same results.

– Dr. Sam Amadi, former Chairman/ CEO of Nigerian Electricity Regulatory Commission (NERC), is an APGA governorship aspirant in Imo State for 2019

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Quick Takes FAANPledgesHealthyAirportEnvironment

ACCOUNTING TO SHAREHOLDERS

L-R: Union Bank’s Chief Financial Officer, Oyinkan Adewale; Chief Executive Officer, Emeka Emuwa; Chairman, Cyril Odu and Company Secretary, Somuyiwa Sonubi, at the Bank’s 49th annual general meeting, which held in Abuja... recently

Aircraft Leasing Companies May Blacklist Nigeria ChineduEze Nigerian airlines may find it difficult to lease aircraft from leasing companies (lessors) due to the failure of some Nigerian carriers to return the aircraft when they fail to abide by the terms of agreement, as enshrined in the Cape Town Convention, which Nigeria is signatory to.

The consequence is that some Nigerian airlines would have to ground their operations because they do not have their own aircraft but depend on leased aircraft. This will further reduce the number of aircraft in domestic operation, leading to high increase in air fares.

AVIATION Also the airlines that own their own aircraft may not be able to lease engines when their equipment suffer engine failure due to bird strike or other factors, which means that such aircraft operations would be grounded, thus further reducing operational aircraft in the country. According to Cape Town Convention Protocol, when an airline leases aircraft, the lessor should be assisted by the airline and the Civil Aviation Authority of that country to retrieve his aircraft if the airline (the lessee) fails to abide by the terms in

which the aircraft was leased.

But some Nigerian airlines run to local court to raise ex parte motion to stop lessors from taking back their aircraft and according to industry sources, the Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA) allegedly do not assist the lessor in accordance to the Cape Town Convention.

THISDAY learnt that some leasing companies like Air Cab have foreclosed leasing aircraft and engines to Nigerian carriers due to its experience with the operators and recently it had severed leasing agreement with a Nigerian carrier, as another domestic operator seized its aircraft and used court decisions

to frustrate it from taking back its equipment.

A former Director of Medview Airline, LukemanAnimaseun told THISDAY that Nigeria is not fully implementing the Cape Town Convention, which it is signatory to. “Before you lease any aeroplane, NCAA will sign Cape Town Convention form, known as Idera, which obligates NCAA to comply with the lessor if he wants the lessee to return aircraft leased in the event the airline refused to pay for the lease or any other issue, but NCAA has refused to assist Continued on page 20

Exploitative Charges: NSC Introduces Competitive Port Levy Eromosele Abiodun After years of exploitative charges by shipping companies operating in the country, the Nigerian Shippers’ Council (NSC) has concluded arrangement to introduce flexible rates in port charges as it begins a regime of competitive pricing.

Executive Secretary and Chief Executive Officer of the council, Hassan Bello disclosed this in an exclusive chat with THISDAY in Lagos.

Bello said the NSC would later this month, sign a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the shipping companies to agree on the templates for port charges.

The MoU, he stressed, is part of the strategies to sanitise the industry and effectively supervise the foreign shipping companies operating in Nigeria and terminal operators and to ensure that Nigerian ports become competitive in the West

MARITIME and Central African region.

According to him, “Port charges will be varied from shipping firm to shipping firm with slight differences in charges; there will not be a uniform charge. It will give room for competition amongst them and shippers will have a choice to make.�

Bello, who described the collection of arbitrary and unapproved charges as ‘indecent practice’ by shipping firms and terminals said the action will stop when the MoU comes into force.

However, he cautioned that apart from protecting the interest of the Nigerian importers, it also has obligation to other stakeholders as they have invested heavily in the nation’s economy and employed thousands of Nigerians.

He said before any new

charge would be introduced, it would be discussed and agreed upon by all parties, adding that the MOU is still being discussed with the relevant stakeholders.

The MOU, he explained, would have a tremendous impact on the way business is done in the country especially at the cost and competition “We need our agencies to compete against each other so that the customer becomes king.

We want our port to be efficient so that we can attract goods to the country and challenge our competitors in West Africa.

We really need efficient port, a port that has linkages with the hinterland and we need deep sea port instead of the river ports we currently have in Apapa and Tincan. “We need a whole new vista so that larger ships will come to our port. We also need to have clearance procedure that is automated so that people can clear their goods in 48 hours.

We want the ports to work 24 hours a day just like we have at the airport and we want to attract cargo so that Nigeria will be a hub.

Speaking on his approach to investors to invest in the Inland Container Dry Port and Truck Transit Park across the country, he said the role of the NSC as a regulator was to coordinate investors in the transport industry.

Bello said: “We need to have modern infrastructure in the country, we have a large deficit especially transport infrastructure. But I see this as an opportunity to upgrade our infrastructure, create new ones for efficiency. That is why we have come up with the concept of dry ports and truck transit park. These dry ports are located in five places across the country and we have two that are ongoing.

Continued on page 20

The Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN) has emphasised the need for a safe and healthy airport environment as it celebrates the 2018 World Environment Day today, June 5, 2018.

The Authority, in collaboration with Nigeria Environmental Society, organised a lecture on the theme of this year’s celebration - “Beat Plastic Pollution� which was held today in Lagos to mark the day.

The Managing Director/Chief Executive of FAAN, Saleh Dunoma, who was ably represented by the Director of Engineering Services, Salisu Daura, in his welcome address, reiterated the importance of integrating human interactions in our development plans in order to ensure a safe and healthy environment.

He joined the global environment body to point our attention to the challenges of plastic pollution coming from all facets of human activities. FAAN’s boss pledged that the Authority would do everything possible to ensure that all plastic materials and other wastes generated around the nation’s airports are properly disposed to prevent the hazards associated with them.

FAAN assures the general public of a clean and safe airport environment as it is committed to its core values of Safety, Security and Comfort.

Etihad Operates Paris Flights

Eective 1 October, 2018, Etihad Airways will operate the Airbus A380 on its second daily service linking Abu Dhabi and Paris Charles de Gaulle. This will transform the airline’s operation between the UAE and French capitals into a year-round all-A380 service, joining London Heathrow as the second European destination enjoying daily multiple visits by Etihad’s award-winning double-decker aircraft.

The introduction of the aircraft on the second daily service will provide business and leisure travellers between both cities with more options to experience Etihad’s latest award-winning cabins and products. The airline has operated the A380 between Abu Dhabi and Paris on one of its two daily ights since 1 July 2017, with the service performing very strongly since its introduction.

Peter Baumgartner, Etihad Airways Chief Executive OďŹƒcer said, “Paris has always been a very special destination on the Etihad network and the number of visitors from France to Abu Dhabi, and vice versa has continued to show signiďŹ cant growth. The route has never been more in demand. “We have seized the opportunity to place our agship Airbus A380 on our second daily ight, following the great reception the aircraft has received from our guests, and to ensure we oer product consistency on the route. This will also allow us to signiďŹ cantly increase the number of leisure and premium seats available, providing more options for those wanting to travel point-to-point between Abu Dhabi and Paris, two capitals now also united by Louvre museums, or to connect via our Abu Dhabi hub to points all over the Middle East, Asia and Australia.â€?

AfBAA Appoints Fadugba Chairman

The African Business Aviation Association (AfBAA) has announced the appointment of the CEO, African Aviation Services Limited, Mr. Nick Fadugba, as its new Chairman.

He was appointed by AfBAA’s Board of Directors during the recent European Business Aviation Conference & Exhibition (EBACE) in Geneva, Switzerland, and replaces Mr Tarek Ragheb, the Founding Chairman of AfBAA. Mr. Fadugba established African Aviation Services in 1990, with the aim of promoting aviation development in Africa and he is widely recognised as an authority on the African aviation industry.

He is a former elected Secretary General of the African Airlines Association (AFRAA), currently the Advisor to the Association of African Aviation Training Organisations (AATO) and a Fellow of the Royal Aeronautical Society (RAes), UK. Over the years, Mr Fadugba has provided a wide-range of consultancy and advisory services to international and African aviation organisations and governments.

The Executive Director of AfBAA, Mr Rady Fahmy said, “We are delighted with the appointment of Mr. Fadugba as the new Chairman of AfBAA.

“ The airports do not produce plastics but the industry provides avenue for plastic waste generation into the immediate and the larger environment�

Managing Director of the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN)

Saleh Dunoma

20

T H I S D AY Ëž Ëœ ÍśËœ Í°ÍŽÍŻÍś

BUSINESSWORLD AIRCRAFT LEASING COMPANIES MAY BLACKLIST NIGERIA lessors take back their aircraft. If you fully abide by Cape Town Convention, no court can stop a lessor from taking back his aircraft and most of the time it is the lessee that do not keep to the agreement 98 per cent of the time. “Take the case of a Nigerian airline that leased two aircraft but did not pay the lessors but grounded one aircraft and used it to repair the other one and when the lessor, Air Cab came to take back their aircraft he went to court. NCAA should have insisted that Air Cab takes its aircraft. But a source from NCAA in quick reaction said that it cannot disobey the courts because the regulatory authority is law abiding. “They (the airlines) are exploiting the legal system to renege on their agreement with lessors. We must have to obey court’s decision. When people go to court for ex parte motion it is not supposed to last for long, but in this case it lasts from three to four years. But what we did was to de-register the aircraft so that the airline cannot operate with it and the aircraft despite the ex parte motion remains de-registered,� the source said.

EXPLOITATIVE CHARGES: NSC INTRODUCES COMPETITIVE PORT LEVY “The purpose of the dry port is to bring shipping to the people in the hinterland, Nigeria is so blessed with versed hinterland.

We have 925SKM that is the land size of Nigeria and we have 200 million people. So it is important that we have land connection and integration. The question of rail which is quite revolutionary is commendable.

The Nigerian government is very focused on the rail and the dry port is supported by rail. “If we achieve our aim in this regard, it means we are making it possible for our people to import ad export. We are decongesting the sea ports and transferring the economy of the seaports to the hinterland.

Whatever happens in Lagos could happen in Kaduna. Some freight forwarders for example have moved to Kaduna.

NEWS

Freshworks Announces Expansion Plans in Africa with Strategic Focus in Nigeria Freshworks Inc., a leading provider of cloud-based business software, recently announced its expansion into the African market. Freshworks plans to substantially increase its commitment with specific investments in marketing, sales and partner resources to better serve its customers in the region. “Africa is a very strategic market for Freshworks, said Arihant Jain, Director for Middle East & Africa, Freshworks. “The opening of Africa is an important milestone for us, as it demonstrates our expanding commitment to the region and strengthens our position as a leading software provider. The combination of our industry-leading solutions along with a growing customer base in the region will augment our local operations. Our aim is to build rich, meaningful engagement with enterprises of all sizes that are looking for new cutting-edge solutions to power their customer and employee experiences.�

IDC predicts the overall African IT spending to reach $33.4 billion in 2018, with nearly $1.9 billion of that spend coming from Nigeria alone.

The year 2017 saw Freshworks building their African foundation with the company’s flagship ‘Partner Program’ receiving immense interest from regional resellers and adding Beaupun and GoTech to their partner ecosystem. “Today, with a diverse network of

partners, the experience of serving leading businesses and their IT executives and the recent accreditation of the ‘2018 Gartner Peer Insights Customers’ Choice for IT Service Management Tools’, Freshworks is paving way for the future of IT service management in Africa to keep

pace with growing customer and market demands.�, the company said in a statement.

With a mission to reimagine and transform IT experiences, Freshworks, along with select c-level executives and IT leaders, would be discussing the ‘Consumerisation of IT: From a Service to an Experience’ at an

exclusive invite-only Breakfast & Networking event organised on 31st May at the Radisson Blu Anchorage Hotel, Lagos.

With the company’s strategic focus on the African market, this event is a step forward in building Freshworks’ credentials as a front-runner in the experience era.

CONSUMERISATION OF INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY

L-R: Head, Business Development, Middle East and Africa, Freshworks, Saurabh Prabhuzantye; Head, IT, West Africa, Godrej Consumer Product, Pradeep Kumar Swaro and Chief Information Officer, Wema Bank, Richard Amafonye at the seminar on challenges of consumerisation of Information Technology in Lagos ‌ recently

‘Multiple Registration, Major Challenge of Contributory Pension’ Ndubuisi Francis in Abuja The penchant for many contributors to indulge in multiple registrations is a major challenge of the Contributory Pension Scheme (CPS) since its commencement in 2005.

The problem not only poses a challenge to the regulator- the National Pension Commission (PenCom) and pension fund administrators (PFAs), but also the contributors themselves.

The Regional Manager, North-central, Trustfund Pensions Plc, Mr. Maurice Ogar, who made the disclosure at an interactive session with

journalists in Abuja recently, noted that registration into the pension scheme should be done only once, irrespective of whether one changed employment or not.

Ogar stated that all a contributor needed on registration was a Retirement Savings Account (RSA), a defined contribution plan required under the Pensions Reform Act 2014 and a personal identification number (PIN).

On leaving a former employment, he stated that the contributor was not supposed to embark on a fresh registration, but to continue with the contributions with

his RSA. He, however, observed that some enrollees indulge in multiple registrations, thereby subjecting their PFAs, themselves and the scheme into unnecessary complications, adding that his company insists on not registering anyone who had earlier enrolled into the scheme.

Speaking on Trustfund’s impressive run, Ogar said the PFA which at inception had the distinction of mustering the highest share capital in the country, also posted an improved return on investment of 19.2 per cent across various

portfolios in 2007.

This, he pointed out, beat average inflation rate of 16.5 per cent in 201, noting that this was enough to accommodate market uncertainties experienced that year.

He stated that the PFA currently has close to N1 trillion fund under management.

Speaking on the impending multi-fund investment structure for all contributors under the Contributory Pension Scheme, Ogar said all active young contributors between 18 and 49 years will be under Fund

two, with about 60 to 70 per cent of contributions to be invested in bonds and treasury bills, while the balance would go into money market and other instruments.

Fund three, he said, is a pre-retirement fund for those between 50 and 60 years bracket, with 80 per cent of the funds to be invested in bonds and treasury bills.

The fourth fund would be a retirees’ fund set aside for those aged 60 years and above.

Among the 21 PFAs in the country, Trustfund Pension currently has the highest share fund (shareholders’ money) of N5.9 billion.

ICC, BASCAP Move against Piracy, Counterfeiting in Nigeria

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Investors in Nigeria can now heave a sigh of relief as the International Chamber of Commerce (ICC) has now taken a drastic step against piracy and counterfeiting in the country. The global body has engaged a working group that would give the fight against the social vices an effective backing in Nigeria.

The ICC delegation drawn from France; Middle East, Africa, Pakistan, UAE; Sweden and Nigeria converged at Eko Hotel, Lagos on Wednesday, where the dangers of counterfeiting and piracy were again examined and solutions proffered.

In his address at the forum, Chairman, International Chamber of Commerce Nigeria, Mr. Babatunde Savage said counterfeiting damages the market dynamics, as it undermines the revenue generation through custom duties and taxes.

Represented at the occasion

by Mrs. Olubunmi Osuntuyi, Secretary General, ICC Nigeria, Savage stated that the menace exposes consumers to serious health and safety risks. His words: “Counterfeiting and piracy have become a global epidemic, leading to a significant drain of the global economy, jeopardising investments in innovation and risking consumer health and safety; thereby resulting in loss of jobs.�

In response to this epidemic, the chairman said ICC launched the BASCAP initiative to unite the global business community across all product sectors in order to address issues associated with intellectual property theft and to petition for greater commitments by local, national and international officials in the area of enforcement and protection of intellectual property rights.

He observed that the volume and value of counterfeiting and piracy is increasing rapidly; thereby threatening governments, and civil society with unsafe and ineffective products.

Savage therefore charged the audience at the forum that business needs to play its role in ensuring that open economies and the rule of law work for the benefit of all countries and their nationals. He advised that they should find lasting solutions that would create equitable opportunities for every willing person to participate in growth.

Corroborating his view, Sophie Peresson, the Paris, France-based BASCAP Director, said BASCAP has, since its inception, created a powerful voice for businesses and compelled government actions and allocation of resources towards strengthened

intellectual property rights enforcement.

Represented by Tracy Faustin, BASCAP Project Manager, Peresson disclosed that the opportunity to engage on the African continent started with a BASCAP invitation to speak at a conference hosted in Kenya by the East African Business Community (EABC).

The forum, she revealed, developed into collaborative partnerships with the Kenyan Anti-Counterfeit Agency, a government established association overseeing matters related to counterfeiting and piracy.

She stated: “Nigeria was later selected as a priority country to start building a BASCAP presence on the ground, which prompted the meeting.

Other dignitaries present at the meeting include: Uche Nwokocha, Partner & Head, Intellectual Property Depart-

ment, Aluko and Oyebode & Anti-Cpounterfeiting Collaboration (ACC) of Nigeria; Adeola Akinnibosun, Manager, Corporate Affairs & Communications, Japan Tobacco International; Wael Adhami, Head, Brand Protection, Middle East, Africa Pakistan & UAE; Felix Ologbonyo, Corporate Counsel, Nestle Nigeria; Staffan Holmberg, Brand Protection Manager, SKF, Sweden; and Margaret Olele, CEO/Executive Secretary, American Business Council Nigeria.

The ICC is the world’s business organisation, representing over six million companies of all sizes and sectors and chambers of commerce in more than 100 countries. Nigeria became a member over 30 years ago, sequel to the realisation of the benefits accruable fom becoming a member.

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BUSINESSWORLD

NEWS

Passengers to Receive Compensation for Flight Delays Stories by Chinedu Eze Nigerian passengers are to be compensated by airlines when flights are delayed. The compensation ranges from providing refreshments to serving meals and refunding the passenger when the flight is cancelled.

THISDAY investigation reveals that while some airlines abide by the Passenger Bill of Rights as enunciated by the Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA), some airlines renege, especially when such delays happen at airports outside Lagos and Abuja where the regulatory authority effectively monitor passenger movement.

According to the Passenger Bill of Rights, if a flight will be re-routed or delayed, the passenger must be notified at least two hours in advance. “If you have a ticket or print-out that shows a confirmed reservation for a specific flight and date, an agent cannot deny you boarding because you have no reservation in the computer. If you need to cancel a ticket purchased under a

non-refundable fare, you must be able to apply the fare you paid toward a future flight, minus any applicable charge or cancellation fees.

You have a duty to arrive before the time on your ticket. Even if you have already checked in for your flight, an airline can cancel your reservation if you are not at the departure gate on time and you must be compensated if a flight departs before the ticketed time,� explained the Director of Consumer Protection Directorate (CPD), NCAA, Adamu Abdullahi.

Abdullahi noted that if a passenger does not check his baggage in sufficient time for it to be loaded on the flight, the airline would not be responsible for any delay in the delivery of your baggage to the passenger’s destination; however, if the passenger baggage is delayed or lost, he must be compensated within five business days. “If your flight is delayed for over one hour, cancelled or you are denied boarding, you have a right to

compensation. You have a duty to be courteous to staff and agents of airline operators,� he added.

Abdullahi told THISDAY that now passengers know their rights but they do not know their own responsibilities to the airlines and that is why they violently obstruct airlines’ operations when there is any infraction.

Also spokesman of NCAA, Sam Adurogboye told THISDAY that the amount of complaints the agency gets from passengers with the needed documents to back their claims show that Nigerian passengers know their right.

Spokesman of Dana Air, Kingsley Ezenwa told THISDAY that the airline abides by the Passenger Bill of Rights, but beyond that it goes further to ensure that its passengers are satisfied. “For us, it is customer first.

We give refreshments when there is delay and we assist passengers to reschedule their flights at no extra cost and refund them in full if they do not wish to continue with the flight,� Ezenwa said.

VFS Global Committed to Professional Standards VSF Global, the agency that provides visa service to Nigerians who seek to travel overseas said it is committed to professionalism with international reputation and the trust it has built over the years.

Spokesman of the organisation, Peter Brun told THISDAY that the company has been operating in Nigeria since 2007 and has eased the process of obtaining visa to many countries of the world. He noted that before the firm started service in Nigeria, it was cumbersome obtaining some countries’ visa from Africa’s most populous country. “VFS Global is a trusted outsourcing partner to 59 client governments across the world. VFS Global is responsible for scheduling appointments, acceptance of applications as well as visa and logistic fees, technology integration and support, data entry and scanning, submission of applications at

the Embassy and returning the passport back to the applicants. The visa services outsourcing process are in adherence to the strict norms laid out by the respective governments as part of competitive tender processes and in accordance to the mandatory regulations.

Our services have been certified to be of the highest international standard and we have been commended several times by eminent Nigerians who have visited our Visa Application Centres.

VFS Global is a wholly-owned subsidiary of the Swiss Kuoni Group, which belongs to the Swedish private equity company (EQT), one of Europe’s leading private equity houses.�

Speaking on the unique essence of the Short Message Service (SMS) VFS Global offers, Brun responded: “Short Message Service (SMS) is an optional service offered by VFS Global which applicants are not compelled to subscribe and are informed of their

right to not opt for with a receipt issued if service is availed. To offer greater convenience, applicants are also informed that in addition to the SMS service, they may also track their visa applications online or seek assistance by reaching out to our dedicated helpline service or even visit the Visa Application Centre for an update on the status of their applications free of charge.�

He further added that VFS Global does not play a role in the final delivery of the Short Message Service (SMS) as it is dependent on the respective telecommunications service provider and other external factors. “As VFS Global strives to provide this service without any disruption, it is equally important for applicants to maintain an SMS text compatible GSM mobile phone number, provide an accurate mobile number and ensure an active connection to a mobile network to receive updates,� Brun said.

Overland Resumes Flight to Asaba Overland Airways has resumed flight services to Asaba International Airport following the re-opening of the airport.

A statement from the airline said Overland Airways flights would depart Abuja to Asaba by 11:30 am on Tuesdays and Thursdays and 12 noon on Sundays. Flights from Asaba to Abuja will depart by 1pm on Tuesdays and Thursdays, and 1:30pm on Sundays.

Overland Airways ex-

presses appreciation to the Delta State Government for the re-opening of the airport for business operations.

According to the Chief Operating Officer (COO) of Overland Airways, Mrs. Aanu Benson, the upgrade of the Asaba International Airport would promote seamless, conducive and safe operations of flight services at the airport.

Benson stated: “Since our first-ever flight to Asaba International Airport which

opened the airport in 2011, we have been, and will remain a major partner in the economic transformation of Delta State. Our resumption of the Abuja-Asaba-Abuja flights demonstrates the commitment of Overland Airways to serve the people of Delta State and its environs. We want to assure the travelling public, most especially passengers between Asaba and Abuja, of our customer-centric service at all times.�

AIR WATCH Foreign Airlines and Corporate Social Responsibility

Middle East carrier, Emirates Airlines celebrating Childrens Day

Few years ago at the African Aviation Finance Conference held in Johannesburg, South Africa, representatives of foreign airlines that operate in Nigeria spoke about the country’s aviation market and Air France, British Airways, KLM and Lufthansa admitted that in terms of profitability per flight, their Nigerian operations are were among the most profitable routes.

None of these airlines has operated to Nigerian destinations for less than 50 years, but industry insiders and aviation labour unions regularly excoriate these airlines for contributing little as Corporate Social Responsibility or any other type of investment in the country where about $2 billion is repatriated from by international carriers annually.

Beyond the aforementioned airlines, there are also Emirates, Qatar Airways, Etihad, Delta, Turkish Airways, Ethiopia Airlines and others.

THISDAY learnt that over the years, aviation stakeholders had complained about the detached disposition of these airlines by not willing to invest in Nigeria, employ Nigerians in the technical areas of their operations or institute services that could contribute in the individual or intuitional development of the Nigerian society.

But the airlines usually insist that they show enough commitment as their head office allows, but indications show that they do more for other countries in Africa and elsewhere they operate than in Nigeria. For example, a major US airliner some years ago built a facility that include protocol service and two departure gates at the Katoka International Airport, Accra and when Nigerian journalists asked the airline why it did not build similar facility in Nigeria from where it airlifts more passengers from. The airline official was evasive in his response. But informed source said the issue had to do with trust and transparency in interaction between airport management agency and the airline.

THISDAY investigation of the contribution of foreign airlines in Nigeria in terms of Corporate Social Responsibility noticed that many of the airlines just sponsor events, make contribution to humanitarian efforts but do not have a consistent CSR programme. This is a half-hearted intervention that earns more publicity that value.

For example, Air France Partners Nollywood in projecting films, actors and producers, KLM partnered with Travelstart to support Nigeria’s Bobsled and Skeleton team and British Airways support small and medium enterprises by helping travel agents grow into travel consultants.

Also, Lufthansa supports Help Alliance, but these are seemingly spontaneous overtures that are not designed for the long term.

This is why when the Middle East carrier,

Emirates Airlines established the programme of identifying with Nigerian children on Children’s Day, the airline received a lot of commendation from parents.

Ahead of the May 27 Children’s Day celebrations this year, Emirates Airlines on May 26, 2018 put the Nigerian children in a celebration mood with a myriad of social activities at the Ikeja City Mall, Lagos.

In the early hours of Saturday, the City Mall had been filled to the brim with lots of children dressed in Emirates Pilot and cabin crew uniforms and moving towards the well decorated Emirates’ podium.

The occasion, which kicked off at about 11am engaged the over 100 children who attended the event with the popular and amazing movie known as Sherlock Gnomes.

Addressing the children in his short welcome speech before the children and their parents went into the cinema session, Emirates Country Manager in Nigeria, Afzal Parambil thanked the children and their parents for massively turning up for the event.

According to Parambil, the activity, which was in line with the airline’s felicitation with young travelers and intending young travelers, provides an opportunity for various school children and every Nigerian children, the opportunity to have fun and to feel honoured by the airline, particularly on the occasion of Children’s Day. While encouraging attendees to Patronise Emirates at all times, Parambil who is also the Regional Manager of West Africa said, “Thank you very much for coming. Your parents brought you here and you will watch only one movie. Next time you are traveling, make sure you fly Emirates where you can watch over 3000 movies. We want to celebrate it with you and make it exciting for all of you�.

At the end of the party, children and their parents were given free Emirates souvenirs, including bags, books, food, drinks amongst other valuable items.

Commending Emirates Airlines, a parent, Mrs. Fabamise Dolapo thanked the Emirates for their kind gesture, remarking that recognising children in such a way is the best CSR. “This event shows that Emirates knows what they are doing. They are not neglecting the children and I give them kudos. Bringing them together is the best an airline could do but they should also create a platform where they can hear the voice of these children so as to know how they feel�.

With the annual Children’s Day celebration with Nigerian children, Emirates has shown an example to other foreign airlines and it is expected that others should emulate the airline.

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Stunted by Labour Threats One of the major challenges facing organisations in the aviation industry is the frequent disruption of their services by labour unions. Chinedu Eze writes on the implications of the current disagreement between labour and operators of MMA2 One of the critical events that led to the downturn of Nigeria’s major carrier, Arik Air in 2016 was the picketing of its operations at the peak of travel time in Nigeria, the Christmas holidays, from December 21 to 23 by the National Union of Air Transport Employees (NUATE) and Air Transport Service Senior Staff Association (ATSSSAN).

Yuletide season is the period any domestic airline in Nigeria records the highest load factor and generates the highest revenue. But it was the time labour chose to disrupt the airline’s operations and left it vanquished.

Two months later, the Asset Management Corporation of Nigeria (AMCON) took over the airline to sustain its operations. Under AMCON labour made another futile attempt to again disrupt Arik Air’s operation in 2017 but was rebuffed by the workers who felt that saving their company was more important than rooting for better welfare package.

Air travellers were frustrated by the disruption of Arik Air flights. Many of the passengers could not buy tickets from other airlines because they were already fully booked. This impacted on other socio-economic activities in different parts of the country because many who booked flights to attend meetings were forced to abstain from such meetings but above all, those who hoped to travel and celebrate the Yuletide with their loved ones could not meet with their families as planned.

But labour had argued then that the airline failed to abide by the agreement reached and the officials of the airline that negotiated with labour on its behalf were allegedly aloof and refused to abide by the earlier promise to allow the workers join the labour union. But it was air travellers that suffered more from the disruption.

Air Peace, Dana Air, Caverton Helicopters, Overland Airways and others have had their services disrupted since 2017, but the recent attempt to picket Air Peace was frustrated by security personnel and the workers who made it clear that they did not want to join the national labour unions.

BASL and Labour Last week, the management of Bi-Courtney Aviation Services Limited (BASL), operators of Murtala Muhammed Airport Two (MMA2), Lagos was given seven days ultimatum to recall sacked workers by ATSSSAN and NUATE. The unions alleged that the workers numbering about 20 were sacked by the management of the terminal operator for indicating interest in joining any union of their choice in the industry.

A petition jointly signed by the General Secretary NUATE and ATSSSAN, Olayinka Abioye and Frances Akinjole respectively, with the title, ‘Notice of Seven Day Ultimatum To Recall Sacked Workers Of Bi-Courtney Aviation Services Limited,� dated May 21, 2018 alleged that the terminal operator erred in sacking the workers for their intents to be a member of unions in the industry they work.

The petitioners said that with the notice, BASL was expected to reinstate all members of staff sacked arbitrarily, allow for unfettered unionisation of all interested members of staff in consonance with the applicable laws of Nigeria and meet with industrial unions to fashion the way forward as social partners in the industry.

The unions emphasised that the ultimatum would elapse on Monday, May 28, 2018, threatening that failure of BASL to accede to the unions’ demands would “lead to a situation too knotty for both parties.�

Reacting to the threat of labour to disrupt its operations and the lack of the said workers, Bi-Courtney explained that the workers were disengaged because some of them had passed the statutory retirement age of 60, while others were inefficient in the discharge of their assigned duties.

The company alleged that NUATE, “just jumped into the fray because it never had any dealing with us before as far as our workers are

MMIA2

concerned� and insisted that 20 of its members were among those sacked simply because, it was learnt, they had filled membership forms to join the union.

However, there are fears that the travelling public would bear the brunt of this fresh struggle between the unions and BASL should anything happen to the operations of the 11-yearl old terminal. BASL had earlier in a statement described the unions as meddlesome interlopers, noting that their threats and attempts to disrupt the operations of MMA2 were acts of lawlessness that would be checkmated within the ambit of the law.

Security Agencies THISDAY learnt that copies of the letter were sent to the Directorate of State Security (DSS), the Airport Commandant, the Airport Command of the Nigeria Police, the Ministry of Labour and others by BASL and some of these organisations and individuals intervened to ensure that peace reigns in the industry.

But BASL had also fired back at the unions, saying their threats were an irresponsible act.

The company said in a statement in Lagos in reaction to the threat: “We are taken aback by their threats to further display acts of lawlessness against our organisation. It would be recalled that when the General Aviation Terminal (GAT) was handed over to our company in accordance with the Concession Agreement executed between our company, the Federal Government of Nigeria and the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN), these two unions physically prevented us from exercising our constitutional and legal right of ownership of the terminal. Subsequent to

There are indications that BASL may have viewed the attempts by the union to force exworkers who are over 60 years old and those who displayed crass incompetence on the company as an opportunity to blackmail it

this handover, the courts have confirmed that the terminal belongs to our company.�

General Aviation Terminal The company also recalled that the two unions actually challenged its ownership of the General Aviation Terminal (GAT) in the court. “Sequel to this, the courts had awarded damages of N132, 000, 000, 000 (One Hundred and Thirty Two Billion Naira) in favour of our company for the liability we suffered up to 2009. The same unions, in continuation of their desire to sabotage the operation of the laws of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, are now threatening to disrupt our operations. “We will do everything within the laws of Nigeria to enforce our right to peaceful existence and to operate our business without any interference from meddlesome interlopers. “Contrary to their allegation that our members of staff had their service terminated because they threatened to join a union, these members of staff who were relieved of their appointment are staff who had either attained retirement age or who were found not to be diligent in their duties.

We reserve the right to continue to improve the quality of our staff�, BASL added.

Sources close to BASL told THISDAY that it was wrong for the unions to insist that the workers sacked were asked to go because they indicated interest in unionism and added that “while many of the people sacked were not sympathetic to any union, many who were sympathetic to unions were not sacked. They are still performing their duties unmolested. So, those sacked were not sacked because of unionism.�

There are indications that BASL may have viewed the attempts by the union to force exworkers who are over 60 years old and those who displayed crass incompetence on the company as an opportunity to blackmail it.

The Labour Unions’ Stance THISDAY learnt from labour that most companies in the aviation industry allegedly threaten their workers with sack if they join labour. Without protection from labour, the sources argued, the companies sack the workers at whim. Also, the workers earn poor welfare package and may not be allowed to enjoy cover for medicals and some allowances that ought to accrue to them for working in the aviation industry.

Also justifying disruption of the activities of organisations that refused to exhaust discussions and reach agreed terms with the unions, the General Secretary of NUATE, Olayinka Abioye recently said that NUATE has a responsibility

as a legally recognised body to embark on industrial action, following all due processes. “We have abided with this principle. The Employer has a duty to its workers to ensure it deals with them with respect, honour them while they exist and appreciate their contributions to the continued growth of the (organisation),� he said.

Economic Hardship Industry stakeholders who spoke to THISDAY said that labour may be fighting for the welfare of its members but it should also give a thought to the companies that provide jobs to these members by reviewing how they operate under prevailing harsh economic situation. “When an organisation is struggling to remain afloat and you come and disrupt its operations, you want it to die then and if it dies how can it continue to provide job for your workers?

So labour should also be anxious about the welfare of the companies that provide jobs for their members,� the source told TISDAY. An operator whose airline’s operations were disrupted on various occasions by the labour unions said the unions are insensitive; that sometimes they do not get the facts from the companies concerned before they threaten to picket the organisation’s operations.

Reacting to the sack of workers by BASL, the operator said: “Have they tried to find out the genesis of the sack? Will they pay the salaries of the people they are trying to force Bi-Courtney to recall? Do they know what the company is passing through, just like other organisations in the country, in this period of economic hardship for it to have asked the workers to go? Is it not statutory that once you are 60, you retire, whether you belong to any union or not, and if you refuse to go, your employer reserves the right to force you to go? Once the unions can answer these and other relevant questions satisfactorily, then their agitation is justified.�

Other stakeholders, who spoke to THISDAY, insisted that labour must do everything to exhaust dialogue and negotiations before embarking on disruption of service.

However, there is the need for BASL and the aviation unions to find amicable solution to the present crisis and allow peace to reign in the industry that has been battered by the prevailing economic crunch that forced many airlines out of business. Such amicable resolution, would also benefit the travelling public that would be mostly affected by any disruption to the activities of the busiest domestic terminal in Nigeria by the unions.

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Imperatives of the Transport Commission Act Eromosele Abiodun posits that the National Transport Commission will enhance the contribution of the transportation sector to the nation’s GDP if the legislation to establish the commission is assented to by President Muhammadu Buhari On March 15, 2018, the Nigerian Senate passed the bill for an Act to establish the National Transport Commission (NTC), which will become the much needed regulator for the transport sector.

Indeed, the passage of the bill was greeted with great enthusiasm among industry stakeholders who expressed optimism that a well regulated transport industry will create millions of jobs.

The nation’s transport sector, despite its importance and being the driver of the economy, has remained without a regulator since the country’s independence, making the sector the most abused by operators. For so long, the transport operators have had to set arbitrary cost benchmarks, which are unfriendly to the people. This was possible because of absence of a regulator to checkmate charges and set the rules of engagement.

Experts have also blamed the lack of development in the sector on the absence of a regulator, which they said had made the sector unable to unleash its full potential. However, with the passing of the National Transport Commission Bill, hopes have been raised among the citizenry and top players in the industry, with virtually every stakeholder agreeing on the imperatives of the commission. They have therefore, called on President Muhammadu Buhari to prioritise assenting to the NTC Bill. The National Assembly had prioritised passage of the bill following calls from government agencies, operators and consumers, including such critical stakeholders such as shippers and freight forwarders.

Enhancing ProďŹ tability Harping on the importance of the NTC just before the bill was passed, the Minister of Transportation, Rotimi Amaechi, had stressed that the commission would, “guarantee efficiency, competitiveness and profitability in the transportation sector.â€?

Since his appointment as Transportation Minister, Amaechi has been making pronouncements on pragmatic ways to revamp the sector. One of these is theari development of a national transportation master plan that would help in diversifying and improving the fortunes of the nation’s economy, a role that is typical of every sector regulator.

He disclosed that the government of President Buhari was in the process of developing a national transportation master plan that would be implemented as a fulfilment of one of his campaign promises to diversify the national economy while improving non-oil sector revenues. “While reducing dependence on oil revenues, it will also develop the rural economy; create jobs at a massive level, both in rural and urban areas.

The transportation sector holds the key to any economy; it forms the basis of all socio-economic interactions. Nigeria has been suffering under the bane of inadequate transportation infrastructure.

As we have it today, contribution of the transport sector to the Gross National Product is a paltry 1.41 per cent, a development that is unacceptable. “Although Nigeria is blessed with multiple modes of transportation that is the envy of many, these potential have largely remained untapped.

For a sector that plays a major role in the nation’s development, there is an urgent need to exploit the opportunities that abound within the sector to improve its contribution to the national economy and this can only be attained by establishing a regulator for the sector. Countries like South Korea and Singapore have built their economies around a vibrant transportation sector. The Buhari administration is determined to fully exploit the potentials in the transportation sector,� he stated.

On his part, a lawyer and stakeholder in the sector, Emeka Akabuogu said the NTC Bill was one of the most important, if not itself the most important bill targeted at advancing the country’s economy in the last 10 years.

According to him, “We think that one of the things that the NTC will achieve is interconnectivity of all the modes of transportation. There will be a lot more choices for Nigerian passengers and importers to travel and move goods around the country. Nigeria is so blessed to have over 870 kilometres of coastal stretch, yet, its water transport has not been harnessed. The railway infrastructure is now being given attention by the government. More legislative efforts will

President Buhari

position the railway for private sector investment and then, we would have the NTC regulating all these operators and ensuring that quality service is rendered for Nigerians to enjoy. We will see that cost of transport goes down and life becomes a lot easier for everyone. I will enjoin our president to give assent to the bill quickly for the Commission to hit the ground running.�

Eradication of Unemployment One of Nigeria’s major challenges at the moment is unemployment, which the President Buhari administration is tackling. Experts and industry stakeholders agree that the transport sector holds the key to activate creation of millions of jobs, with the government investing little of nothing into the sector. Indeed, with automobile assembly firms now coming up gradually in the country, experts believe that a well regulated transport sector can help diversify the economy by activating multiples of industries and SMEs in the transport sector, as it helps the manufacturing of automobile parts to evolve faster. “With a well regulated transport sector, the federal government would have scored high on its economic diversification drive, as the sector has the potential to outdo oil in revenue generation from millions of operators and workers in the sector. I am not talking in vain; there are countries to support my position. Such countries as China, India, South Africa and Brazil are models of countries that have benefitted immensely from developing their transport sectors. Interestingly these are same countries in the same breed that Nigeria seeks to join in the years ahead,� said Edeme Kelikume, a transport and logistics expert.

Contrary to fears from some quarters that NTC could be a drain pipe, Kelikume said a transport commission would eventually emerge as a game changer and major, “value-adding agency of the government.�

He further stated, “If the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) could become a major net contributor to the gross domestic products (GDP), revolutionising the Global Satellite Communication, (GSM), licences and liberalising telephone services and making communication accessible to all Nigerians, one could see the NTC achieving same for the transportation sector. “Every logistics chain service provider should be excited about the passage of the bill and already looking forward to the unlocking of the sector by the coming regulator, which will further deregulate the sector and draw fresh funds into government’s coffers. That time may just be months away, as we expect President Buhari to sign the NTC Bill soon.� “With the industry’s vast potential as an economic catalyst, regulation will unleash the sector’s potential and position it for greater exploitation that is capable of creating millions

Minister of Transport, Rotimi Amaechi

of jobs and turning the country economy around for the better. Therefore, the bill when signed into law, will give the nation’s transportation sector a new face lift, coordination and needed impetus to drive the economy,� said Chibuzo Ekwekwuo, a transport expert and analyst.

Catalyst for Growth Also, the President of Shippers Association of Lagos, Rev Jonatahan Nicol and Secretary of Bonded Terminal Operators Association of Nigeria, Omolajomo Haruna lauded the passage of the bill by the National Assembly and said the presence of a regulator in the transport sector would be a catalyst for the sector to grow and become a huge employer of labour, calling on President Buhari to quickly consider assenting to the bill.

According to Nicol, “The bill will immensely regulate excesses of stakeholders in the shipping subsector, especially at attaining equitable port and transport charges. “We hope implementation will enhance the ease of doing business in Nigeria as a whole. It is therefore, important for the Executive to give priority in signing the bill into law.�

For General Manager, Duncan Bonded Terminal Tin Can Port, Haruna Omolajomo the NTC will see to the success of the several dry ports being championed by the Nigeria’s Shippers’ Council (NSC) across the country, by ensuring that seaport terminals do not become a holding bay for containers and other cargoes.

He said: “As containers continue to dwell in seaports for more time than normal, congestion of the seaports and traffic gridlocks in Apapa have become inevitable and we have all seen the menace of it. The other side of it is that only five out of about 20 bonded terminals are now functional and working at only three per cent capacity utilisation. It is a pity that most of them owe banks and had sacked 95 per cent of their staff, instead of employing. “If the NTC bill is signed into law, it will invoke the multi-modal system of transportation in Nigeria. A lot will be happening to see that the transport sector investors do well and generate employment. Transport and shipping cost will also go down, as we begin to see a tangible regulator activate competitive markets in the shipping subsector.�

An official of the NSC who does not want his name in print told THISDAY that the transmutation of Shippers Council to NTC will be seamless. “Expect fast and easy implementation of the NTC Bill once signed into law, as there is already an existing agency of government to quickly transmute into the NTC. Stakeholders and proponents of the bill are in agreement that the NSC can quickly be made to become the transport commission.

Already, the functions of the council have been absorbed in the commission and strengthened

to give the commission regulatory powers. “Some of these functions, which the NSC is already executing include monitoring and enforcement of standards of service delivery to ensure availability, accessibility, affordability, stability, predictability and adequacy of services to n the transport sector; encourage competition and guard against the abuse of monopoly and dominant market positions; promote efficiency in the provision of port services; minimise high cost of doing business and prevent its inflationary effect on the Nigerian economy; and encourage private sector investment in the port sector, �she said.

Need for Assent Also speaking, a shipper, Stephen Agboola said: “To me, what is left now is for the bill to be signed into law, so that the commission comes to life with full powers, whose decisions are not challenged with court actions arbitrarily. It is so sad that as important as it is, only the transport sector has remained without a regulator since the birth of this country. It is unbelievable. Nigerians spend the biggest single chunk of their income on transportation; yet, no agency of government is there to ensure that they get a reasonable service. “According to the World Bank, transportation represents 15 per cent of cost of every good people buy, and as significant as that is, transport operators are not regulated. Thank God we are getting to the end of this anomaly, but we can’t continue to wait as usual. So, this is at no cost to government to begin to set up another cost-oriented concern.

Once the president signs the NTC Bill, the Shippers Council will naturally transmute to the Transport Commission.�

Omolajomo said: “I believe that with the NSC’s current capacity and having seen what the council has been doing in the sector, the council is very capable of transmuting into the transport commission. The council I know has many units specifically designed and with very well trained personnel to handle every area of functions that I have seen in the NTC Bill. “In fact, it is interesting to observe that the NSC has gone beyond protecting transport consumers interest to building transport infrastructures through private sector initiatives all over the country. One can only imagine how many Nigerians will be employed directly and indirectly by these initiatives.

He continued: “For example, Buhari himself unveiled for business on January 4, 2018, one of the landmark Inland Container Depots (ICDs) driven

by PPP, which are planned to become catalysts for economic development at a massive level in the various places where they are located. The NSC is also driving construction of Truck Transit Parks (TTPs) through PPP as well. These are transport infrastructure that can employ thousands, if not millions of Nigerian directly and indirectly.�

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NSE’s Giant Strides to Green the Economy and Protect the Environment Olumide Orojimi Since it began in 1974, the World Environment Day (WED) is the UN’s most important day for encouraging worldwide awareness and action for the protection of our environment. This global outreach to individuals and companies is widely celebrated in over 100 countries.

While reach may be commendable, impact is not encouraging. A few statistics will illustrate this position - one million sea birds and 100,000 marine mammals are reported killed annually from plastics in our oceans, plastic constitutes approximately 90 percent of all trash floating on the ocean’s surface, with 46,000 pieces of plastic per square mile, approximately 8 Million Metric Tons of plastic waste is washed off land into the oceans every year which endangers marine life and disrupts the aquatic ecosystem.

According to UNEP, plastics account for 10% or more of our everyday waste (UNEP). Sadly, it takes 500 - 1,000 years for plastic to degrade. It will then seem that virtually every piece of plastic that was ever made still exists in some shape or form (with the exception of the small amount that has been incinerated). To celebrate this year’s WED, an appropriate theme has been found in ‘BEAT PLASTIC POLLUTION’. It is equally important to state that the tagline, IF YOU CAN’T REUSE IT, REFUSE IT is a powerful call to action.

Time to Stick Together With the grave danger to our lives and oceans, it is therefore important for the world to come together to rid our world of plastics or reduce use to a barest minimum.

As experts have warned, that without urgent action there will be more plastic in the sea than fish by 2050.

The cause has found a worthy voice in the British Prime Minister, Theresa May, who is seeking 52 countries to join her Clean Oceans Alliance committed to cleaning up and protecting our seas. Affirming her country’s walk the talk posture, by committing to provide a £61.4 million package to fund research into recycling and improve waste management in poor countries. Many countries including the UK are looking to introduce a ban on the sale of plastic straws, drink stirrers and cotton buds by the end of the year as she urges Commonwealth leaders to tackle climate change and clean up the world’s oceans.

Over the past 3 years, a major ocean clean up technology has progressed from feasibility research, to extensive scale modeland prototype testing. It is expected that the first operational cleanup system to be deployed in the Great Pacific Garbage Patch by mid-2018. It is believed that if the world stick together to rid our planet of plastics, by 2050 the ocean clean up would have been a major success.

Chief Executive OďŹƒcer, NSE, Mr. Oscar Onyema

Nse: Pillars of a Sustainable World The Nigerian Stock Exchange is uniquely positioned as a sustainable stock exchange that is championing Africa’s growth. Aware of its unique position within the Nigerian economy, NSE not only supports economic growth by providing an efficient and sustainable capital market but also through its robust Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) philosophy play a significant role in social economic interventions to create a sustainable world. Its four pillars of CSR strategy are: Community: The Exchange invest its resources in enriching the communities where its employees live and work. Some of the activities promoted under this pillar include: NSE Corporate Challenge, an annual 5km race to create awareness for cancer; NSE Essay Competition, annual financial literacy competition for secondary schools and the celebration of annual Global Money week.

Workplace: The Exchange is committed to maintaining a talent pool of resourceful employees by adopting a systematic approach to identifying, developing and training employees to ensure a robust supply of high-calibre individuals with the values, skills and experience required to function effectively. Major initiatives under this pillar include: NSE Graduate Trainee

Programme, an 11-month programme design to expose recent graduates to the workings of the capital market; training for employees; provision of fitness centre within the head office, to mention but a few.

Marketplace: The Exchange adopts marketbased approach to ESG imperatives amongst stakeholders. Important efforts include Green Bond Issuance, Corporate Governance Rating System for all listed companies, The NSE Data Centre, introduction of SMARTS technology to forestall market abuse etc.

The last but not the least important, is Environment. Under this platform, the Exchange play its part in reducing negative environmental footprint as a result of its operations. To this end, it has deployed the use of energy saving lighting system for its operations leading to 80% reduction in energy consumed year on year It has entered into a recycling programme with Recycle Points Limited to recycle plastics, cans and other recyclable materials. At least 8% of waste generated by NSE are recycled. More importantly, the Exchange intends to switch from its fossil fuel power generating sets to a liquefied natural gas before end of 2018 to reduce noise and emission pollution.

WED 2018: The Press for Progress In commemoration of 2018 World Environment Day, The Nigerian Stock Exchange held a clean-up programme to create awareness and sentisize members of its immediate com-

munity on the menace of plastic pollution.

This is in tandem with the theme for this year, “Beat Plastic Pollution�, which urges governments, industry, communities, and individuals to come together and explore sustainable alternatives and urgently reduce the production and excessive use of singleuse plastic polluting our oceans, damaging marine life and threatening human health.

As part of the celebration, the NSE has invited distinguished environmentalists to close the market on the trading floor and ‘Sound the Gong against Plastic Pollution’. Renowned environmentalist expected at the closing gong event include Mr. Desmond Majekodunmi, Chief. Ede Dafinone , Chairman, Nigerian Conservation Foundation (NCF) National Executive Council; Bilikiss Adebiyi Abiola; Founder, and former CEO, Wecyclers, a company that offers waste collection and recycling services to the Lagos informal settlements, using cargo tricycle for access and SMS for data collection; Mazi Ukonu, CEO, RecyclePoints, a waste recycling and social benefit venture that operates an incentive-based scheme which collects recyclable materials from post consumers and in turn rewards them with “Points� which they can accumulate and use to redeem household items.

RecyclePoints is currently the NSE’s partner on internal recycling campaign.

Speaking on the progress made in 2017 for its various sustainability efforts, the CEO of the Nigerian Stock Exchange, Mr. Oscar N. Onyema said: “Despite the pervading economic headwinds, we pressed for progress on numerous sustainability efforts and I am pleased to inform you that we recorded very strong positive achievements in 2017. We could not have done otherwise given the unique role we occupied in the Nigerian economy as the premier exchange and in Africa as one of the leading bourse’ that is championing inclusive and sustainable growth. Recognition for the sustained positive performance belongs to the great team at The Nigerian Stock Exchange (The NSE) and our numerous partners who continue to share our vision of promoting sustainability in Nigeria�.

The Nigerian Stock Exchange is proud of its collaboration with its stakeholders across its ecosystem to drive sustainability. This responsibility is further affirmed by its membership of various global institutions committed to promoting sustainability and they include Sustainable Stock Exchanges Initiative (SSEI), World Federation of Exchanges, Global Reporting Initiatives, The International Organisation of Securities Commissions (IOSCO) etc. As the world press for a plastic free world, we can all play a part at corporate and individual levels.

- Orojimi, is Head Corporate Communications, The Nigerian Stock Exchange

Firm to Partner Nigerian Companies on Global Best Practices ČŠĹšĹ›ČąÄ™Â›Â–ÂœČąÂ‹ÂŠÂ?Čą ›ŽŠÂ?Čą Â•ÂŠÂŒÂŽČą Â˜Čą Â˜Â›Â”ČąÂŠÂ ÂŠÂ›Â?Âœ The new Country Director for Great Place To Work Nigeria, an affiliate of Peoples Productivity Solutions (PPS) Africa, the parent company of Great Place to Work UK, Dr. Gonzalo Shoobridge, has pledged the company’s commitment to partnering Nigerian companies on global best practices.

Shoobridge, who replaced Michael Thomas as Country Director for Great Place To Work Nigeria, said Great Place to Work UK will bring to bear on Nigerian organisations best global practices that conform to the UK and other European

companies where the firm has operations.

Speaking at the fifth award ceremony of Great Place To Work Nigeria, which held recently in Lagos, Shoobridge said: “We are bringing best practices here so we can share them with Nigerian organisations that want to become best work places.�

The objective, according to him, was to have best workplaces in Nigeria, “because if we improve the workplace, we are going to improve the society as a whole.�

Shoobridge, who brings over

20 years’ experience in diverse international business development and human resource consulting roles, however, pointed out that great work places don’t happen by chance.

Rather, organisations work hard to become great work places. “It doesn’t happen in one or two years; it is a continuous improvement process, because the bar is very high. That is why we are going to partner with Nigerian organisations in that journey to becoming best work place,� he said.

If there are images in this attachment, they will not be

displayed. Download the original attachment Forty five companies across Africa were recognised as great places to work in various categories at this year’s award by Great Place to Work Nigeria.

It was the fifth in the series.

According to the Group Managing Director (GMD), PPS Africa, Mr. Kunle Malomo: “These companies have the courage and confidence to build the kind of workplace where you achieve organisational objectives with employees who give their personal best and work together as

a team or family-all in an environment of trust,� he said, in his welcome address.�

Apart from Best Companies to Work For (large corporates and small and medium size businesses), which was the star category of the awards, the 2018 edition of the awards, which was the 5th in the series, also included Certified Companies 2018.

Special award categories included Best Workplaces for Millennial Generation, Fun and Friendly Workplaces, Health and Wellbeing Excellence, The Best for Learning & Develop-

ment, The Best Workplace for Female.

While Andela trounced Namibia Breweries Limited and FCMB clinched the Best Companies to Work For, in the large corporate segment, Courteville Business Solutions Plc emerged winner for the Best Companies to Work For in the small & medium size businesses segment.

Others that made it to the list included Cisco South Africa, Cisco Egypt, Isometrix, AIICO Pension, SANOFI, MDS Logistics, SC Johnson, and Ideashouse, among others.

25

T H I S D AY ˾ FRIDAY JUNE 8, 2018

26

T H I S D AY ˾ Ͷ˜ ͰͮͯͶ

WEEKLY PULLOUT

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

NEWS| P30

COLLAGE | P36

THISLIFE | P37

'I WANT TO HELP YOUNG ARTISTES’

FILE

28/COVER

08.06.2018

'I Want to Help Young Artistes’ Known for his capacity to blend contemporary music with the African sound, gospel artiste Timi Godfrey has officially launched ROX Nation, targeted at providing a platform for young talents in the industry. In this exclusive interview with Sunday Ehigiator, he spoke on the initiative among other issues

L-R Okey Sokay, IBK, Tim Godfrey, SMJ and Blessing

How long has this project been on?

It has been on for about 15 years. Basically, I don’t want to jump or rush into doing stuffs because I realised it is better to gather enough experience as much as possible, to know what’s up with every part of the whole music industry.

From recording as a producer to being an artiste, having been able to understand branding and the rest things that we have put together; so getting to this part has been a journey of all the experience that we have had. Also, working with international artistes and everything that we have done in the last 15 years, that is basically what has brought us to this point where we thought not just to become what others have done; when you become big, you don’t help anybody out, we thought of having a platform where we can help younger artistes. I never had that opportunity and that’s what has given birth to what is happening here today.

What does the acronym ROX Nation stand for?

ROX is actually Republic of Xtreem. The name of my group then which I started with initially was XTREEM. So, the way we think, we think like a nation. It’s not just a company, it a community, it’s a nation, it’s a people. So, we decided to put it as ROX Nation. The thought pattern is that we are building a nation; from the entertainment part to lifestyle, movies and everything. And it is an international brand. Already, we are registering it in America, South Africa and in the UK. You are also doing some sort of Talent Show at the moment; can you tell us more about it?

It’s called Sound Check Africa. I gave them Sound Check because, before we do a major show, at the point where the show starts properly, there is what we call sound check musically; where people come and check everything and get ready.

So, we decided to put together a platform. We believe that the world is a stage, but what we are setting up is a piece of sound check. To prepare

them to just nurture them and put together a couple of things here and there before they get there. I am a bit tired of us always going to America to go and get brands, franchise them, here such as The Voice, America Got Talents and the rest of that; and change it to Nigeria because it’s airing in Nigeria, so why can’t we have our own product, our own brand? And put it together in such a way that we can actually franchise it in other countries. I am looking forward to when Sound Check would become, Sound Check America, Sound Check Columbia, Sound Check different places because, it is a totally different concept and, I am not apologetic about it that it is from Nigeria and proudly of Nigerian brand, that people would come from all over the world to come and pick because nobody has done what we are trying to do; as you have seen we just pick a bit of it, because this is our first time, from close to 500 people, we have dropped them to about to about a hundred and something, and now we just have 30 people. Those 30 people will stay in a camp for a sort of massive and intensive training for two weeks before we go to the next level of what we are doing. So, it is totally fresh and different concept. And we are able to use that to give younger people opportunity to find expression with their gift. Whether you are doing gospel music or circular music, we are open for all kinds of music. We want to train them properly to know what they are doing, and we hope to do this every year and not just one, two, three, four or five years; it is going to last forever if there is anything like that, and as frequent as every year. This year’s own would end latest by first week of May. That is when we would announce the winner. The winner is going to get a record deal worth N10 million, a cash reward, and a couple of other things that come with it. We have a lot of company we want to collaborate with which we are about finalising, second and third place would as well get something; between fourth to tenth would all get a single recorded and released. We just want to give people opportunity.

During this launching, you also signed along some new artistes. Can you give us their bio?

We are bringing on four artistes. One of them is SMJ; he is a producer and likewise an artiste.

His name is Samuel Gibson. We have Okey Sokay, we have IBK and then we have Blessing.

They are four amazingly tremendously talented guys. Three of them have been working with me within eight to 15 years, and just being under my platform, they have been able to gather so much over 10 years. And these guys have not released anything by themselves, but because they have been under my platform and I give them opportunity, every time they get out to do stuffs; I mean I go for shows, and they come out, and after the show and I am going, people walk up to me for pictures and a lot of people likewise go to them for pictures and autographs like they are all superstars. So they are all superstars by themselves. Like I said, it’s a process; it was very intentional when we were building this whole structure that, they have an opportunity to become something, and the last person is one tremendous guy also; that’s Okey Sokay. I have watched him grow, and I thought giving him the opportunity to shine more.

What music philosophy is to be expected from ROX Nation; strictly gospel?

As I have always posted on all our pages, the world is waiting and we are trying to reach out to the world. ROX Nation is not a Nigerian brand, it is an international brand. We have been able to put together not just the label, we have live recording studio, we have a digital recording studio, we have an administrative office where people would work whether as project managers, or brand managers. And different structures that we have set up which we have people already working right now, close to 12 to 15 staff already as the company is just about to start. So we do other things. I am a gospel artiste, if you ask me; I am just a proud artiste that does good music whether it’s praise and worship, love song, I do

all sorts. But for ROX Nation as a label, we are going to be signing on different artistes. It doesn’t have to be gospel alone, we are not doing gospel alone, we are doing guys that does love songs, party songs, traditional songs, hip-hop and whatever style you do.

The thing that we don’t do is; if you go vulgar, or if you talk dirty. We don’t allow that. So we are training our guys to be able to do songs and talk clean genuine things from their souls, or heart and not say a thing that would mess up the younger generations. What we have out there now are people shooting naked videos and all of those things and we are not helping the next generation. So, we are going to take care of all of that.

Deviating a bit From ROX Nation launching; is there any other projects we are expecting from you?

We started this year with Sound Check Africa, which is the reality show that we are doing right now, the next major project that we are doing is going to be FEARLESS! It would be the third edition. The international artiste we are bringing for this third edition; we are not going to expose that yet. After that, we are doing a music movie, that is very huge, it has never been done the way we are going to don it. We are already working on the synopsis and all of that. We talking with a lot of companies to collaborate with us for something that would express African sound with music and a very emotional story; you know how people move from grass to grace, and 40 per cent of the story would be my story, the rest would be fictional so to encourage a lot of young Nigerians and Africans. We are going to be having some international actors that would be part of it. So, it is something that has never happened before.

So these are some major projects we have and the tour that we are going to be doing towards the end of the year. We are starting from universities, then African countries, then all over the world.

29/XTRA

08.06.2018

Buhari’s Three-Year Successes Peter Uzoho writes on the remarkable achievements of the President Muhammadu Buhari-led government in the past three years from N50,000 to N350,000 to more than 300,000 market women, traders, artisans, farmers across all 36 states of the country. Some 56 per cent of these loans have gone to women. In terms of advancing the financial inclusion goals of the Buhari Administration, GEEP has led to the opening of 349,000 new bank accounts/wallets for beneficiaries and intending beneficiaries.

In November 2017, GEEP was chosen as the pilot programme for the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation Policy Innovation Unit in Nigeria.

The Home Grown School Feeding Programme (HGSFP) has benefited a total of 8.2 million pupils in 45,394 public primary schools across 24 states; the programme has also created over 80,000 direct jobs, with 87,261 direct cooks currently engaged in the 24 participating states.

Election season is upon us already and the drums and banners and chants and catchphrases are already being rolled out. While President Muhammadu Buhari has announced his intention to run in next year’s polls, he is not short of candidates who are enthusiastic to take his job. It is worth exploring what the President has been up to over the past three years.

Fixing a broken economy While the nation suffered one of its most devastating recessions in its recent history between 2016 and 2017, things are now picking up, as the economy recorded a 1.95 per cent growth in the first quarter of 2018 and inflation has fallen for the 15th consecutive month from 18.7 per cent in January 2017 to 12.5 per cent, as at April 2018; external reserves of $47.5 billion is also the highest in five years and is double the size it was in October 2016.

In 2017, the country’s total exports were 59.47 per cent higher than 2016; agriculture exports grew by 180.7 per cent, raw material exports grew by 154.2 per cent, solid minerals exports grew by 565 per cent, and the exports of manufactured goods also grew by 26.8 per cent.

One of the main characteristics of the recession was the foreign exchange crisis. But the new foreign exchange window introduced by the CBN in April 2017 now sees an average of $1 billion in weekly turnover and has attracted about $25 billion in inflows in its first year, practically stabilising the market and signaling rising investor confidence in the country. In 2017, the Stock Market ended as one of the best performing in the world, with returns in excess of 40 per cent.

A main criticism of the Nigerian economy has been its over-reliance on oil proceeds, a phenomenon that has resulted in a weak tax base. In its efforts to diversify the economy, the federal government has embarked upon a vigorous drive to strengthen the country’s tax system. As a result, since 2016, five million new taxpayers have been added to the tax base and tax revenue has increased to N1.17 trillion in the first quarter of 2018, a 51 per cent increase on 2017’s first quarter.

This administration, also, has worked hard to increase the country’s capital expenditure, as stipulated in the budget. In the 2016 and 2017 fiscal years, N2.7 trillion was spent on infrastructure, an unprecedented allocation in Nigeria’s recent history.

This administration economic strategy is based on a landmark policy, the Economic Recovery and Growth Plan (EGRP), which was launched by Buhari in April 2017. This document, which has been lauded by economic experts across the country, charts a course for the Nigerian economy over four years (2017 – 2020) and its vision is to restore economic growth, invest in Nigerians and build a globally competitive economy.

One of the goals of its design is to help the country better manage its debt as it embarks on a massive infrastructure drive. Thus, the Buhari administration has implemented a new Debt Management Strategy which targets a ration of 60 per cent to 40 per cent between domestic and external debt. This strategy has been implemented through increased external raising of capital to finance the deficits in the last two recent budgets and the refinancing of short term, high cost Nigerian treasury bills with lower cost external debt. Through the implementation of the strategy the Domestic to External Debt Ratio which stood at 84 per cent to 16 per cent as at June 30, 2015 improved to 73 per cent to 27 per cent as at December 31, 2017. The government has, also, successfully issued several international bunds which have been well subscribed to, pointing to a renewed confidence in the future strength and health of the Nigerian economy.

Driving a food revolution If the Buhari administration will be remembered for one thing, it will be for its radical insistence that the country be able to grow what it eats, in other words, to be feed itself with little or no recourse to international

Buhari...walking the talks

trade. This idea has spurred the government to invest in several programmes that promote and support local agriculture.

One of such programmes is the Anchor Borrowers Programme (ABP), a Central Bank of Nigeria scheme which has made available N82 billion in funding to 350,000 farmers of rice, wheat, maize, cotton, cassava, poultry, soy beans and groundnut; these farmers, in total, have cultivated about 400,000 hectares of land.

Remarkably, the ABP has substantially raised local production of rice; yields have doubled from 2-3 tonnes per hectare in some areas, doubling Nigeria’s paddy production compared to 2014 levels.

Also, between 2016 and 2018, eight new rice mills have been set up within the country and private sector investments in the production of rice, wheat, sugar, poultry, animal feed, fertilizers, etc, since 2015, has risen up to more than a billion dollars.

Filling an infrastructure gap Meanwhile, the Buhari administration has demonstrated a single-minded commitment to upgrading and developing Nigeria’s Transport, Power and Health Infrastructure.

In May 2018, the federal government launched the Presidential Infrastructure Development Fund (PIDF), under the management of the Nigerian Sovereign Investment Authority (NSIA). The PIDF is kicking off with seed funding of US$1.3 billion.

In March 2018, the NSIA invested $10 million to establish a world-class Cancer Treatment Centre at the Lagos University Teaching Hospital (LUTH) and US$5m each in the Aminu Kano University Teaching Hospital and the Federal Medical Centre, Umuahia, to establish modern Diagnostic Centres. These Centers are expected to be completed before the end of 2018.

In 2014, the federal government spent these sums on the following sectors: Transport (N14 billion), Agriculture and Water (N34 billion), Power, Works & Housing (N106 billion). In 2017 those figures jumped to: Transport (N127 billion), Agriculture and Water (N130 billion), Power, Works & Housing (N325 billion).

Across the country, there are a plethora of ongoing road projects, many of which had been abandoned by past administrations.

To further demonstrate its commitment to infrastructure development, the Buhari administration, in 2017, issued Nigeria’s

first sovereign Sukuk Bond, which is worth N100 billion; proceeds from the bond are funding 25 major road projects across the six geopolitical zones.

Also worth noting is the upgrade of Nigeria’s 3,500km network narrow-gauge railway network, which has commenced with the signing, in April 2018, of the interim phase of a concession agreement between the Government of Nigeria and an International Consortium led

by General Electric (GE). The target of this Interim Phase is that within the next 12 months, passengers will experience reduced travel time by rail between Lagos to Kano, and, for the first time in over a decade, contracted and scheduled freight rail services will be available.

The Abuja Light Rail system, too, has been completed and will go into operation this year.

The first line to be launched will connect the city center with the Airport, with a link to the Abuja-Kaduna Railway Line.

In terms of improving and standardising the power sector, a problem that has defied the wisdom of past administration, the Buhari administration has made excellent strides. By the end of 2018, the country is now expected to have an additional power generation capacity of more than 2,000MW, some of derived from publicly owned power plants, others through private sector investments supported by the federal government.

Also, because the administration is bent on supporting local industries, it has launched the Energising Economic Programme, which is bringing reliable and efficient power to economic clusters/markets across the country; pilot projects are currently being implemented in Aba (Ariaria Market), Lagos (Shomolu Printing Community, (Sura Shopping Complex), Kano (Sabon Gari Market) and Akure (Isinkan Market).

Building social security The Buhari administration is currently implementing Nigeria’s ever largest and most ambitious social safety net through its Social Investment Programme, which has seen N140 billion released to the direct benefit of more than nine million people, so far.

Some of the nine million beneficiaries include 200,000 N-Power beneficiaries, who are being paid a N30,000 monthly stipend; another 300,000 are expected to enroll this year, taking the number to 500,000 beneficiaries.

The Government Enterprise and Empowerment Programme (GEEP) has also disbursed N15.183 billion in interest free loans, ranging

Plugging the loopholes One of the tripod-leg upon which Buhari campaigned in 2015 was corruption – he swore to free the country from the corruption plague and three years after, the administration has recorded some major successes.

The new Whistleblowing Policy introduced by the Federal Ministry of Finance in December 2016 has since then yielded N13.8 billion from tax evaders and N7.7 billion, $378 million and £27,800 from public officials targeted by whistleblowers.

The Ministry of Finance has received a total of 8,373 communications on contract inflation, ghost workers, illegal recruitment and misappropriation of funds, as a result of the Whistleblower Policy. Of this number of communications, 1,231 are specifically whistleblowing tips. The ministry has now undertaken 791 investigations and completed 534 of those investigations. Ten are presently under prosecution and four convictions have been secured.

Under Buhari, there has also been an increased oversight of federal government ministries, departments and agencies. The National Economic Council (NEC), under the Chairmanship of Vice-President Yemi Osinbajo, approved the audit of key federal revenue generating agencies, with revealing results: a total sum of N526 billion and US$21 billion was underpaid to the Federation Account between 2010 and 2015. NEC has now 23 approved the extension of that audit to cover the period until June 2017.

Also, the Buhari administration is addressing the issue of poor levels of remittance of operating surpluses by MDAs. From remitting only N51 million between 2010 and 2016, JAMB went on to remit N7.8 billion in 2017, and is on course to remit a similar amount in 2018.

Winning the war on terror Recently, the country’s security has been threatened by herdsmen conflict, but this administration has made some progress in safeguarding the lives and property of Nigerians, especially as it relates to the Boko Haram insurgency in the northeast.

The Buhari administration revitalised the Multi-National Joint Task Force (MNJTF) and succeeded in bringing relative peace in troubled areas; El-Kanemi Warriors Football Club returned to their home base in Maiduguri in April 2016, two years after relocating to Katsina State because of the insurgency; Emirs of Askira and Uba returned home in May 2016, two years after fleeing their Palaces on account of the Boko Haram insurgency; also, public Secondary Schools resumed in Borno State on Monday September 26, 2016, after two years of closure; and Maiduguri-Gubio and Maiduguri-Monguno Roads reopened in December 2016, after being closed for three years.

The capture of Boko Haram’s operational and spiritual headquarters, “Camp Zero”, in Sambisa Forest, in December 2016 was a highpoint of success against the insurgents.

Following this the Nigerian Army conducted its Small Arms Championship from 26th to 31st March 2017, a measure aimed at enabling the Armed forces to dominate the area, and avoid regrouping by the terrorists.

30/ NEWS

08.06.2018

Miss Nigeria, SPAR Celebrate Children's Day Stories by Mary Ekah Leading hypermarket, SPAR Nigeria recently entertained children and teens across its 12 stores nationwide with its annual kids Fun Day Fiesta held in commemoration of World Children’s Day. All the locations were agog with fanfare as the young ones were treated to fun activities such as games, freebies, Mascots, bouncing castles, face paints and other exciting activities. SPAR Ilupeju particularly welcomed the 41st Miss Nigeria, Peace Ehiguese and fast-rising actor, Yomi Gold. Both played host to children, parents and fans, engaging them in recreational activities such as the Balance Beam, Pin the tail on the donkey, Identify Parent, Hot Potato/Pass the parcel, Musical chairs, Snatch, Simon says, Egg and Spoon Race, Doughnut Eating, Suck ‘Á’ Way, Dress up Contest, Toss the coin etc. Skills development-based games for Children such as Smart Race, Medicine Ball Throw, Circuit Race, Colour Ball Race were not left out.

“The SPAR Kids Fun Day has become a tradition for us. Being a family oriented hypermarket, we are keen on always celebrating Children’s Day because it gives us the privilege to appreciate and excite children. We are always happy to go the extra mile in making the day special and memorable because today’s children are tomorrow’s leaders and evidently, tomorrow’s shoppers.” John Goldsmith, SPAR Nigeria said.

The reigning Miss Nigeria said, “SPAR

L-R: Chairman, PTA of the school, Prince Kehinde Adepegba, Local Government Assistant Education Officer (LGEA), Mrs. Oluwakemi Adetunji; Head, OANDO Foundation, Adekanla Adegoke and Head Teacher, Bolanle Daodu at the event Actor Yomi Gold and 41st Miss Nigeria, Mildred Peace Ehiguese with Children during the SPAR’s Kids Fun Day Celebration at Ilupeju Shopping Mall, Lagos

has continued to be significant in the lives of children and students especially in her host communities. The Fun Day has been so exciting for the children and their parents who also joined us in the fun. I am so proud of the indigenous spirit exuded by SPAR.” Gold on his part commended SPAR for the Fun Day celebrations, pledging his support to SPAR as he partied with the children. “For me,

SPAR is a worthy example when it comes to engaging host communities”, he said.

With stores in all regions of the country, SPAR continues to blaze the trail in offering shoppers the most competitive prices on household commodities and items. The hypermarket remains poised to build and support its host communities. SPAR Nigeria has grown from one retail store to 12 major outlets nationwide.

Enelamah, Others Harp on Diversification at RCCG’s Economic Summit The need for Nigerians to become players and not spectators in the country’s dream beyond oil formed the fulcrum of discussion at the maiden Economic Summit by the Redeemed Christian Church of God Men’s Fellowship (RMF) Region 19. The summit, held at RCCG’s Regional Headquarters, Acme, Ikeja, Lagos, paraded notable speakers, which included the Minister of Industry, Trade and Investment, Dr. Okechukwu Enelamah who presented a paper on ‘The Nigeria Dream Beyond Oil’.

Enelamah outlined the various plans and programmes of the federal government to move from dependence on oil to include stabilisation of the macro-economic environment, achieving agriculture and food security, ensuring energy sufficiency in power as well as improving transportation infrastructure and drive industrialisation focusing on small and medium enterprises.

While seeking support and understanding of the populace on government’s efforts to revamp the economy, he said this will be better achieved if Nigerians take keener interest in governance through active participation. Enelamah’s views were corroborated by other speakers including Pastor Brown Oyitso, the Special Assistant to General Overseer (Missions) and the Regional RMF Coordinator, Pastor Amos Emovon.

Oyitso, Pastor in Charge of Region 19,

L-r: Managing Director, Bank of Industry, Pastor Kayode Pitan, Regional RMF Coordinator, Pastor Amos Emovon, Minister of Industry, Trade and Investment, Dr. Okechukwu Enelamah, Special Assistant to General Overseer (Missions) Pastor Brown Oyitso, and Executive Director/Co-Founder of Sahara Group, Pastor Tonye Cole during the Summit

who in his welcome address stated that if Nigeria is to look beyond oil, “we need to deliberately do some things differently such as focus on agriculture, local manufacturing, fiscal diversification and knowledge based economy.” Emovon, who doubles as the PIC Lagos Province 44, while giving the reasons for organising the conference, noted that the recent economic recession resulting from the glut in the oil sector presented huge risks as

Nigerian Medical Doctor Shines in New York It was pride for his parents and Nigeria at large as well as a dream come true for young Nigerian origin, Dr. Adekorewale Odulate-Williams who got admitted alongside others to the medical profession in the USA during the graduation ceremony of the prestigious Upstate Medical University, (State University of New York) Syracuse, New York on May 20th 2018.

Williams had earlier graduated from Tufts University, Boston Massachusetts, United States, Ivy League university. He will resume in the teaching hospital in Houston Texas immediately for his residency. The young, prize-winning Doctor, who got first class in Biology four years ago from the Tufts University, hails from Odulate and Giwa Sonoiki families in Ikorodu, Lagos State.

Williams went to Caleb International College for his secondary education. He then went to college at Tufts University in Medford. A year before graduating, he took his Medical College Entrance Test (MCAT) exam. He graduated in 2014 with a Bachelor of Science degree. He went on to study at State University of New York Upstate Medical University in Syracuse NY where he graduated in May 2018.

He is to start residency in obstetrics and gynaecology at University of Texas-Houston

Foundation Excites Ogun School with Playground Equipment

The graduand, Dr. Adekorewale Odulate-Williams with his uncle, Mr. Olateju Sonoiki

(UT- Houston). After completion of residency, he plans to specialise in female pelvic medicine and reconstructive surgery (FPMRS).

well as significant opportunity for Nigeria's economic renaissance. He said the conference was meant to make participants understand the times and receive direction on what to do. Pastor Remi Oluboba, the National RMF Coordinator who represented the National Overseer and National Chairman of RMF, Pastor Joseph Obayemi, told the participants that RMF is an avenue to transform lives through faith, finance, fitness and family.

ICONIC Nigeria 2018 Graduate Summer for June 20 Nigeria’s annual business ranking publication, ICONIC Nigeria, has announced it would be holding its 2018 Graduate Workshop on June 20 in Lagos. In partnership with the Nigerian Television Authority (NTA), ICONIC Nigeria shall host a group of unemployed and underemployed Nigerian graduates to a day of mentoring and networking. The Nigerian Television Authority, NTA, is partnering with ICONIC Nigeria to host this workshop, and will have exclusive rights to cover the event. “Our publication’s target audience, who are primarily Nigerian Millennials, particularly graduates, are facing the burden of a poorly diversified economy.

Present statistics show that there are millions of unemployed and underemployed graduates in Nigeria. We hope that our graduate workshops will provide them with invaluable lessons and networking experiences for the corporate world,” said Chi-Elizabeth Duru Ocan, Chief Editor, ICONIC Nigeria.

The Graduate workshop, which is a non-profit event, shall kick off with a symposium session in the morning where five keynote speakers shall address the Efficacy of Economic Diversification and Entrepreneurship in Transforming Nigeria’s Economy (the workshop theme). The ensuing session is the Mentor Lunch where the graduates will break into smaller groups for lunch with their assigned mentors.

It was excitement all the way for the pupils and teachers of Local Government Nursery and Primary School, Jaguna, Itori Ewekoro, Ogun State, as Oando Foundation, recently donated carousel and various playground equipment to the school to promote extra-curricular activities and make learning fun as part of activities to mark the 2018 Children's Day. The school was adopted by the foundation through its 'Adopt-A-School' initiative, aimed at identifying and renovating dilapidated government-owned primary schools across the country. The now fully-furnished facility, which used to be a make-shift school, provides a conducive learning environment for its pupils and teachers in line with the foundation’s key principles of improving the quality of life and acting as a catalyst for development and social change.

Speaking at the programme, the Head of Oando Foundation, Mrs. Adekanla Adegoke expressed delight about its intervention in the school noting, "It is approximately one year since the foundation starts the intervention of the school and we are happy that pupils and staff of Local Government Primary School, Itori Ewekoro are witnessing a significant transformation. From learning in a derelict poultry, they now have fully equipped modern classrooms that support their needs. Adegoke regretted that, “The facility lacked the most basic infrastructure required for effective learning. "

Honeywell Urges More Support for Youths Managing Director, Honeywell Flour Mills Plc, Mr. Lanre Jaiyeola, has solicited private and public investment in activities that will promote youth development, to keep them off social vices. He also tasked youths to channel their skills and energy to ventures that will be productive to them and the society. This, he noted, will go a long way in solving social vices and make them have a direction to realise a dream by building a career.

Jaiyeola, speaking at the closing ceremony of the Honeywell-sponsored youth-based basketball competition in Lagos, stressed the importance of investment in youths, being the leaders of tomorrow, to make them more productive

Eliezer Harps on Individuals’ Involvement in Infrastructure Management In a bid protect both individual as well as investments in infrastructure; there is a need for individuals to participate actively in management and maintenance of infrastructure in the communities in which they exist. The Chief Operating Officer, Eliezer Workplace Management Limited, David Korede, has said.

Speaking during a media parley in Lagos on the topic, “Fostering Infrastructure Maintenance Though Ownership Culture” in commemoration of this year’s World Facility Management Day’, he said “To participate effectively in management and maintenance of infrastructure, we need to take ownership of those in our communities.” He stressed that there was a need for Nigerians to be passionate about public facilities, while they developed in themselves a maintenance culture. He said the idea of ‘Ownership Culture’ is encompassing; “It involves accepting responsibility, personal accountability, creativity and innovation especially using ownership judgment and making independent but learned decisions in promoting growth and development. '

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08.06.2018

‘I Project Nigerian Goods in the Positive Light’ Nkechi Sophie Okoye is a graduate of Statistics from University of Abuja; and Productions and Operations Management at Centre for International Advanced Professional Studies, Ikeja, Lagos. Her love for beauty and business made her to create ‘Sophie’s Bath Essentials’ brand that would add the shine to a woman’s beauty, as she explained to Funmi Ogundare why Nigerians need to support Made-in-Nigeria products and the need for small scale business owners to think smart and believe in themselves in order to achieve their dreams Why Sophie’s Bath Essentials?

They are generally made from Nigerian ingredients; the black soap, coconut oil and turmeric are everyday products that have been around for a long time. But what I have done is that I added value to everything that we know which is the common Dudu Osun that is being sold in the market, and packaged in such a way that people can see that the things that we have can be presented in a better, refined and exciting way. That was why I started it.

I just wanted to find products that were easy to get and I don’t need to depend on foreign exchange. They are true Nigerian products.

At what point did you develop a passion for beauty?

I have always had passion for beauty and wearing makeup at a teenage age. It’s been in me, I like science as much as I like beauty so adding the two together is Sophie’s bath and body essentials.

What is the correlation between science and beauty?

It is about money and business. To be able to create this product that I am so proud of, as much as the motivation was my passion for beauty. Being an Ibo woman, business is like our second nature. When I thought of how to add value to the black soap, people now started to appreciate it. Later people of a certain class would want to buy things that they consider lower or of a lower value to what they usually use. I feel that if I can use it, other people can use it too and they can appreciate it. We are too much very into foreign things and love foreign market. So for me I am able to present Nigeria made products to people by packaging it in such a way that it will be appealing to everyone. The production method of black soap is age long.

If you make black soap yourself, it is not the same as another person. The way the Yoruba women make their black soap is such that it does not have water, so for a long time, nothing happens to it and the way they make it is almost like raw material. One of my products is Sophie’s glow scrub, it is basically black soap and sugar and it forms an exfoliating soap and scrub depending on the use, it is a multipurpose. When you say exfoliating, nobody ever thinks of black soap.

When you evolve what you already have and add value to it, you can give it to people and they will buy. If you check it, the amount of Made-in-Nigeria products have increased as a result of recession.

Who are your target market?

My target market is those who appreciate Nigeria, who have a disposable income to purchase beauty products that will make them look better. It is also for a woman who is up and coming and cares particularly about how she looks, not in the sense of being light skinned but someone that wants to maintain what they look like. It is an enhancement thing for your self esteem because when you look nice, you are more confident. You will want to talk to more people and socialise and generally a young, middle aged woman who appreciates beauty.

In the last one year, how would you describe the feedback from your target market?

The feedback has been great and amazing. I honestly started with just a dozen products in March 2017 and it sold out in a day. I noticed that people like it and I decided to make more and people bought it. I started getting great reviews and I have never had any problem with anybody or complaints from anybody on the products.

What are the challenges you face in

Okoye

operating the business?

There is no access for small medium enterprises. My major problem is access to loans and the certification that I have to go through as a small business because in order to expand to the level that you want your small business to move from small to medium, you need to pump in some certain things like NAFDAC number which has one general guideline whether you have a big factory or small. Watching the gross of my business from day one to now, I can see that it’s going places and I have met customers that I didn’t know I have. I want it to get to more places, but all these rules and guidelines in the capacity that they expect businesses of my size to deliver, sometimes is very impossible. You can’t get loans for shop spaces, you have to figure it out yourself, but you can get loans for equipment and material.

So how do they expect that if you can’t get a loan or don’t have the money to build a small factory, you have to do something? Those kinds of things affect people from moving from where they are to the next stage. My business strategy is that Nigeria is at the beginning of industrialisation, there are a couple of factories, but for the amount of people in Nigeria, they are not enough. From what I have read over the years and research, I have seen that you need humans first before you can get machines.

With the industrialisation that people are talking about, what will the machines be doing? So you need to tell people to do it with their hands. In Europe for instance, everything that is handmade cost more money regardless of what it is, but we don’t see that in Nigeria.

How do you intend to surpass the challenges?

For now, with increased sales, maybe more money will enter and more projects, I will have a better credit plan to get a proper investment

from investors. I also try as much as possible to employ people to do my work for me. I have gotten to a certain level that I cannot cope or do my work myself anymore, so I’m trying to hire as many people as possible and teach them so that they can have a skill and trying to teach them the business and processes.

What is your view about Made-in-Nigeria products?

I think they are amazing, we seem to have been blindfolded by the foreign products. Almost 70 per cent of what I use is Made-in-Nigeria. I buy Made-in-Nigeria clothes, shoes and bags.

I make sure I project Nigerian goods in the positive light. If you go to the stores, and you will see things that you didn’t know that Nigerians could package. For instance packaged stew, pap, and Ankara ready- made clothes, the more we project the things that are made locally, the more people accept them here. Nigeria probably has the largest people in diaspora.

Imagine if they buy it. The more we support Made-in-Nigeria goods, the more money that Nigeria will have. You can package anything, as long as it is hygienic and attractive, you will sell. You don’t know till you try. Ghana has a whole industry of shear butter, baobab oil and coco butter because they produce a lot so why can’t we? We have the resources, we only need people to have money. We don’t need to wait for the government because they will not give us the resources.

What makes your product stand out from others in its category?

I think I am very influential to the people around me, I have interacted with in terms of beauty and lifestyle. Everything that I have is in such a way that a woman who behaves like me would want to use it. They are things am used to, basically me in a bottle or cup. So

it is a very personal product and I think that putting these much of myself into the creation of all these products has made it stand out. I have used it for years before I decided to sell it.

Where do you see the product in the next 10 years?

I see myself everywhere in the world, in every retail and beauty store, everyone knowing it and having an idea of who I am. I see myself creating an industry where I can hire indigenous Nigerians, I see myself being able to pass down my skills in terms of business, beauty and production to other people. I see myself putting Nigeria on the world map and everything that is positive.

What advice do you have for youths out there as an entrepreneur?

I once took a time out to think critically about the process we want to use to create it, so getting up as early as possible in the morning, sitting down to write, to do list and from there I learnt how to be meticulous in my planning. Regardless of how I feel, I get up and do something. I think am addicted to productivity so I have to do something everyday. When I don’t do something that day, I feel very guilty about it. It might not be a 24 -hour stretch of doing something but everyday I must do something to move me closer to my dream. Smart thinking because you have to compress all the activities and processes to achieve something into the most detailed and precise points. It is not about doing something haphazardly, for you to be able to sell something to another person, you have to believe that you can use it. You have to connect yourself to your brand because that is the stage where I am at this point. Unless you are a mass producer, the only way you can sell is by connecting yourself to your brand.

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08.06.2018

Driven by Continuous Innovation, Remita Consolidates Top Fintech Position Peter Uzoho writes that Remita’s e-payment has ensured transparency in the system

Managing Director, SystemSpecs, Owners of Remita (2nd right), John Obaro, former governor of Abia State, Dr. Orji Kalu (2nd left), Rivers State Commissioner for Special Duties, Onowu Chukwuemeka (right) and Senior Vice President, Oil and Gas, Aiteo Group, Victor Okoronkwo (left), at the New Telegraph Award where Remita emerged Product of the Year

SystemSpecs, through its product, Remita, was already pushing the barriers of traditional banking and leveraging technology to deliver superior financial services to corporates and individuals in Nigeria long before the explosion of now famous fintech startups. The company, which currently occupies an enviable position in Nigeria’s Fintech space, began in 1991, when John Obaro, a solution-driven software titan, decided against all odds to set up a company that will help other companies solve problems associated with managing resources: people, data and finances.

At that time, most business organisations in Nigeria were compelled to use foreign-made softwares to simplify their business processes, but most of them struggled with the complexity of use as the software products were unsuited for their peculiar needs. It was in this dark and confused situation that SystemSpecs was borne.

It started as a B2B company selling custom-made human resource software to organisations and in time, it grew to develop solutions to meet the payment needs of indigenous businesses. Today, SystemSpecs product, Remita, has garnered several honours and awards globally.

SystemSpecs’ first software brand – HumanManager became a pioneer in employee self-service and HR management. This software which simplifies payroll, HR Management and goal management operations launched in 2004 and enjoyed wide acceptance with over 200 organisations across Africa using it. HumanManager was described by the Nigerian media as Nigeria's most successful software yet, having passed through a world class automated Quality Assurance test.

Obaro revealed that it was during the deployment of HumanManager for a multinational organisation that there came a demand to include automated end-to-end functions to cover payments of salaries, tax deductions, remittance of pensions, vendor payments and other payment solutions. This took the SystemSpecs team back to the drawing board to create a software to meet e- payment needs, hence, the birth of Remita.

In 2006, Remita was launched to the world as the first indigenous payment solution platform in Nigeria. With conscious evolvement and continued innovation, traditional competitors have not been able to deliver the breadth of services, nor the reliability, that Remita consistently provides in

Nigeria.

Remita’s big break came when it was adopted for the implementation of the Nigeria’s Treasury Single Account (TSA) which proved to be a complex project of gargantuan proportions. The need for a software to simplify the complexity was primary and having used a foreign-made software to no avail, the Central Bank of Nigeria wrote to the office of the Accountant General of the Federation (AGF) to get an alternative electronic payment solution. A prolonged search led them to invite SystemSpecs to pitch the Remita software as a possible e-payment platform for the TSA. Today, the story of how Remita has aided the fight against corruption with its brilliant execution of the TSA account is a laudable one. Remita has made it possible for government to consolidate its diverse accounts into a single account as TSA implementation demands. Remita is used for payment and collections of funds on behalf of the Federal Government of Nigeria by all commercial banks and over 500 microfinance banks.

Remita provides intelligent and real-time data on the state of finances, which aids in constructive decision making. For instance, The federal government has several Ministries, Departments and Agencies (MDAs) which prior to this time had thousands of accounts across various banks. This made financial accountability near-impossible, but with the Remita powered TSA, the government now has good information about the position of funds seated in its treasury, coming from each MDA, thereby allowing for easy detection of discrepancies and a timely intervention to curb them.

The smooth running of the TSA by Remita has significantly reduced the level of fraud in government operations in Nigeria. It has blocked loopholes and enabled accountability for funds that would otherwise have been embezzled. It has given government a broad spectrum of auditory powers and mandated the culture of financial responsibility by providing a view of who paid what, to whom and at what time. Also, the federal government announced that it has continued to save up N24.7 billion monthly because of TSA. At the end of March 2018, the Accountant General of the Federation, Ahmed Idris revealed that the TSA account had recorded an inflow of over N8.9 trillion of government revenue. Also, over 17,000 accounts in commercial banks where public funds were stashed to generate profit for individuals have

been closed. It is this success with Remita and the TSA that has prompted the governments of three African countries to explore the adoption of this e-payment solution in their working processes to enable accountability and financial responsibility in their administrations.

In its September 2016 Report, global research firm McKinsey stated that e-payment solutions such as Remita are key to the growth of modern economies and will empower individuals, businesses and governments to carry out financial transactions cheaply and more efficiently. It projected that by 2025, these platforms will boost the Gross Domestic Product (GDP) of emerging economies by a whopping $3.7 trillion and drive financial inclusion.

Today, Remita is used by individuals and private organisations to process over $30 billion worth of transactions annually. Remita boasts of a large clientele in the private sector such as Accenture, Akintola Deloitte, Ernst & Young, Meristem Securities, Guinness, Main One, Seplat, Swift and Olashore International Schools. Also Access bank has recently partnered with Remita to power the Access Bank Payday Advance scheme which is a lifestyle product offering loans to salary earners to fulfil urgent financial obligations. With its cross network of banks and ability to link them to each other and CBN, Remita can ensure that customers can get their loans without going to the bank and pay back on time as the loan is upon agreement, deducted from the salary account of the customer.

Just like Microsoft Office, Remita comes with a complete suite. Remita e-Payment platform delivers payment instructions to accounts in any Commercial Bank, Microfinance Bank, Primary Mortgage Institution or Digital Wallet, while Remita e-Invoicing provides billers with a powerful tool for managing invoices, empowering them to uniquely identify transactions from initiation right through to consummation. Remita e-Collection empowers subscribers to receive payments from customers anywhere in the country through multiple channels. Also, Remita Payroll & HR is suitable for an organisation with 2-200,000 employees and is a powerful and comprehensive Payroll and Human Resource Management solution which can compute staff allowances, loans, pensions, taxes, overtime allowances and more at the click of a button.

In 2012, Remita was awarded the Outstanding

Public Service Product of the Year by Financial Technology Africa Magazine; it was recognised as the Most Outstanding Software Solution at the NITMA awards in 2015; in April 2016, it was declared the Most Efficient e-Revenue Service at the CBN Cashless Card Expo and it emerged the Best Software Solution of the Year at the Nigeria Telecoms Awards. It also won the Pan-African Software Solution of the Year at the Titans of Tech awards and the most Innovative Mobile Payment Solution of the Year at the DigitalPay Expo Awards 2017. SystemSpecs bagged the software company of the year for the second time at the 9th edition of the yearly Beacon of Information and Communications Technology (BoICT) awards with its founder John Obaro nominated as the Man of the year. SystemSpecs has also won the most innovative e-payment company at the BusinessDay top 25 most innovative companies and institutions award. Most recently, SystemSpecs was shortlisted in the ‘Top Fintech Innovation’ category for Remita, by the organisers of PayTech Award, a platform which recognises excellence and innovation in the use of IT in the finance and payment industry worldwide.

The Remita app which is the mobile version of Remita software is available on Google Play Store and iOS and allows for an online and real-time tracking and monitoring of payments irrespective of the payment channel used. Remita mobile app enables individuals to aggregate personal account information from different banks on a single screen and make payments through multiple payment interfaces such as the business’ website, internet banking, PoS, credit or debit cards and any bank branch. Also, transactions could be tracked allowing for real-time accountability and convenience of use.

The PWC 2017 FinTech Survey Report posits that over 62% of customers will use mobile applications to access financial services within the next 5 years. This Remita mobile app speaks volume of SystemSpecs’ viability and continued innovation in the FinTech space.

It is this trend that SystemSpecs envisioned 26 years ago and sought to carve a niche by leaving indelible footprints in its search for innovation. At present, SystemSpecs continues to set the pace for other indigenous payment solutions having developed the most robust software platform to manage finances in Africa’s biggest economy.

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08.06.2018

Ikeja Electric Celebrates Children, Affirms Support for Quality Education .Donates bags, books to school to commemorate Children’s Day As global attention turned to children across the world on Children’s Day 2018, Ikeja Electric Plc, one of Nigeria’s largest electricity distribution company, has reaffirmed its commitment to support quality primary education and contribute to the growth of the education sector through its Personal-Corporate Social Responsibility (PCSR) initiatives.

In commemorating this year’s Children’s Day at G.R.A Nursery and Primary School, Ogudu, Lagos, the company had an interactive session with the pupils while sharing educational items such bags, note books, pens and also providing them with safety tips against electrical hazards.

The company’s Head of Corporate Communication, Felix Ofulue, emphasised that as future leaders, it is pertinent that their growth and quality of their educational development is taken very seriously.

“As a socially responsible corporate citizen, Ikeja Electric will continue to create opportunities and platform that will prepare children to excel in their academic pursuits and help them towards living more enriching lives as adults,” he said.

He noted that the company is committed towards promoting a fulfilling learning culture experience among primary schools students and supporting them with quality educational materials while stressing that given the right environment and support the children will excel.

In her remark, the visibly elated Head Teacher

L-R Titi Aikhomu, Brand and Event Manager, Engr. Taofi Basanya, Business Manager Shomolu Business Unit and Mr. Waidi Gbadamosi, Head Audit, all of Ikeja Electric distributing Stationery Pack to Pupils at GRA Nursery and P.

of the school, Mrs. Afolake Oke-Bello expressed appreciation by commending the company for donating the educational items to the school, as a way of encouraging the pupils.

She said: “This is a worthy effort from Ikeja Electric. We are happy and grateful to Ikeja Electric

for coming to celebrate this year’s Children’s Day with us.”

The students applauded Ikeja Electric for bringing smiles to their faces by celebrating the Children’s Day with them. Faith Abiona, a Primary 6 student said: “We are very happy to see Ikeja Electric in

our school to celebrate the Children’s Day with us. We pray that God will bless them. Children's Day is annually observed in Nigeria on May 27.

The holiday is celebrated by government and non-governmental organisations. It is recognized globally as a day to honour children.

Group Urges Lagosians to Get their PVCs Ugo Aliogo The Coordinator of Good Governance Group (G3), Joseph Rennaiye, has appealed to Lagosians to get their Permanent Voters Card (PVC) in order to exercise their voting rights during the 2019 general elections.

Speaking in Lagos at the Voters’ Awareness Campaign exercise organised by the group which is an association convened by the Senior Pastor, Global Impact Church, Pastor Yemi Davids, the Coordinator of the Group, Rennaiye, said part of what they are set out to do is to engender good governance and the bedrock of good governance all over the world is democracy.

He noted that the focus of the exercise was to engage the people in the community on the need to participate in the electoral process, stating that every Nigerian have a role to play in governance.

“Today we set out to create awareness, with the elections around the corner. I believe that as Nigerians we have a stake in the way the country is governed. Good governance is

Members of the Good Governance Group (G3) during their awareness exercise

something that very critical to us. Therefore, today what we want to reach out to Nigerians on how they effectively engage in the election

Aspirant Calls for Erosion Control Commission

Nigeria's Defense College Delegation Visits Finland Peace Obi

Emmanuel Ugwu in Umuahia The time has come for the establishment of a federal commission for erosion control in order to effectively tackle the havoc being wrecked on communities prone to environmental degradation.

Special Adviser to Abia governor on Trade and Commerce, Hon Jude Udeachara made the call when he formally announced his ambition to vie for the Isuikwuato/Umunneochi federal constituency come 2019.

He hosted members of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) from Achara-Mbaugwu Ward 7 in his Amaokwe, Uturu country home, Isuikwuato local government where he outlined his plans for his constituency if he got the mandate to represent the people.

Udeachara assured that he was poised to give the people of Isuikwuato/Umunneochi federal constituency effective representation and tackle the problems facing them.

“We have major challenges in our federal constituency, apart from the basic infrastructure we lack in our constituency. We have a major challenge in environmental degradation,” he stated.

The governor’s aide said that if he realised his ambition of becoming a member of the House of Representatives he would pursue the creation of a commission for erosion in Nigeria, just like Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC) was created.

“We should have a federal commission

process because engagement is a critical part in ensuring that we put in place good governance in the country,” he noted.

Udeachara

for erosion control so that special budgets and allocations can be allocated to make for checking environmental devastation and erosion, otherwise, one day we will be in our homes and our houses will go under the earth. I will move for the creation of that commission,” he assured.

While urging the PDP stakeholders to give him support to secure the party’s ticket for the federal constituency seat, Udeachara said that aside from tackling erosion menace ravaging parts of the constituency, he would also bring electricity to those parts of his constituency presently without power.

The aspirant, who lamented the absence of asphalted roads in his constituency further promised to attract road projects and use his connections as a businessman to ensure rapid industrialisation of Isuikwuato/Umunneochi federal constituency.

Rennaiye further stated that the initiative was launched in September 2, 2017, adding that they had a lecture on good governance which was delivered by Mrs. Bucky Shonibare to commemorate the launch.

The founder of Global Impact Church and convener of the group, Pastor Yemi Davids, noted that the church is at the forefront of good governance because the church consists of Nigerians and when Nigeria bleeds, the citizens all bleed.

“Prayers will not solve all problems, some will demand some actions. This is why we are pushing for Nigerians not just Christians to be more active in politics. Our future plan is to continue this campaign and then have an institution called the Good Governance Institute. We are still at the planning stage. We are laying the bricks so that as we encourage our people to be actively engaged in politics, we want to ensure they are well trained and prepared on the ethos of good governance to deliver the goods to the people.”

As part of the National Defense College's GeoStrategic World Study Tour for 2018, a delegation of 24 officers from the NDC visited Finland for a week-long study tour.

The study tour which spanned from May 19 to 26 was hinged on a theme, ‘Social Security and National Development in Finland: Lessons for Nigeria’. The delegation was hosted in Helsinki by the Ministry for Foreign Affairs as well as other ministries and the Finnish Defence Forces.

As part of the extensive programme, opportunity was created for the delegation to get acquainted with different aspects of Finnish society, including internal security and immigration issues, the comprehensive Finnish social security system, as well as Finland's foreign policy, Finland's contribution

to international crisis management, and the work that Finland does in the area of biosafety. The group also had the opportunity to visit Nokia Corporation. While in Finland, the delegation had the chance to meet with their counterparts at the National Defence University, as well as visiting the Guard Jaeger Regiment, which is one of the regiments training Finnish conscripts. As one of the few countries in Europe with most of the male population going through military service, Finland is renowned for extensive experience in training conscripts. The Ambassador of Finland to Nigeria, Pirjo Suomela-Chowdhury, who welcomed the group in Helsinki, said that the already active Finland-Nigeria relations will greatly benefit from the delegate's visit, adding that it would afford them the opportunity to know her country and also to meet their Finnish counterparts.

NestleTaking Action to Beat Plastic Pollution onWorld Environment Day Nestlé has set the bold global ambition of making 100 per cent of the packaging either recyclable or re-usable by 2025, as part of its pledge to play an active role in combating plastic pollution.

The company aims to help consumers dispose of used materials in the right way, while promoting a market for recycled plastics by continuing to increase the proportion of recycled plastics in its packaging. This vision – for none of its packaging, including plastics, to end up in landfill or as litter – is global in vision but local in execution.

Nestlé is looking to develop the well-organised collection, sorting and recycling schemes across all countries where it operates.

In Central and West Africa for example, Nestlé is supporting the Ghanaian Government’s efforts to better manage plastic waste, as one of eight founding members of the Ghana Recycling Initiative by Private Enterprises (GRIPE). As part of this coalition, Nestlé is working with other major industrial companies including Unilever and Coca-Cola, to integrate sustainable waste management solutions and advocate for improved waste management practices in Ghana. With a population of more than 28 million, the country has one of the fastest-growing economies in the world today, but has a severe and fast-growing waste management problem.

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08.06.2018

‘Cultural Integration, Catalyst for National Unity’ One of the yardsticks of national harmony is the cross integration of culture and social affiliation amongst different kingdoms irrespective of cultural and religious discrepancy.

This was the view expressed by the HRH (Dr.) Appolus Chu, Egbere Emere Okori of Eleme Kingdom, Rivers State when he took a trip all the way from South-south to the North to attend the just concluded 2018 Nzem Berom, a cultural festival of the Berom nation in Plateau State, writes Mary Ekah Apart from constantly preaching peace, unity, tolerance and understanding, HRH (Dr.) Appolus Chu, recently embarked on visits to various regions in Nigeria, a gesture he wants other traditional rulers to emulate. Believing that one of the yardsticks for national unity is the cross integration of culture and social affiliation amongst different kingdoms HRH Appolus Chu is of the view that cultural integration is a catalyst for national unity. His presence at the cultural event therefore was not a coincidence but well planned trip which aligns with his belief in the saying, ‘there is unity in diversity’.

Suffice it to say that the majestic appearance of HRH Dr Appolus Chu alongside other dignitaries, including the Minister of Youth and Sports Development, Solomon Dalong at the Nzem Berom 2018 cultural festival in Jos, the Plateau State capital is evidence to this fact.

Hundreds of people thronged the Jos Stadium, venue of the most consistent and promising festival in Nigeria. There, HRH Appolus Chu received a rowdy welcome as the His Royal Majesty, the Gbong Gwon, Jos, Da Jacob Buba welcomed him to Jos. Nzem Berom was instituted in 1981 as a unifying cultural festival of the Berom people in Plateau State, North-central Nigeria and indeed, the Berom people are irresistible with unique cultural endowment and love for their tongue, which has sustained the survival of the festival.

Under the watch of His Royal Majesty, the Gbong Gwon, Jos, Da Jacob Buba, the over 1.6 million people of Berom nation have kept faith with the ambitious project of sustaining their unity, growing their young population and showcasing the gift of nature through strategically showcasing the rich Berom geographical landmass as an agricultural tourism destination.

Describing Jos as a home for tourists, HRH Chu said, “I appreciate the Gbong Gwom Jos, His Majesty, Dr Jacob Gyang Buba for guarding the culture and tradition of his people jealously.

By promoting his culture in this manner, he is also affording his people the opportunity to come together in love and unity and this is a crystal for national unity.”

Applauding the Gbong Gwom Jos for guarding his culture jealously, Chu noted, “Jos is a place for tourism and this festival is a message to the people out there that here is a place fertile for investments.”

The major features of the festival included a royal procession and deployment of well kitted Berom traditional warriors, a colourful parade of traditional dance groups as well as the exhibition of the Berom cuisine artefacts, mineral resources and raw materials.

The festival was concluded with a dinner for guests at the Palace of His Majesty, Dr. Jacob Gyang Buba. As custom with Nzem Berom, all invited guests and their entourage were hosted to welcome dinner at the Gbong Gwon majestic palace with the dining area nearly occupying a very huge table.

In continuation of his peace campaign that traditional rulers should be their brother’s keeper, synergise and network so as promote cultural tolerance, integration and cohesion, HRH Chu in the same vein, paid a visit to the Emir of Misua, Bauchi State, HRH Alhaji Ahmed Suleiman to commiserate with the people of the town and the Emir of Misua over the 22 students of Government Day Secondary School, Misau in Bauchi State who died in an auto crash along Bauchi-Kano in February this year while travelling to Kano for an excursion.

Although it is very rare and uncommon in the Nigerian traditional institution, for kings to regularly visit one another, mostly, considering the distance, for example, the distance between the Northern Nigeria and South-South, it is always very difficult for kings from one end to regularly visit kings on the other end. But for a noble man of rare personality, distances know no barrier in HRH Appolus Chu’s philosophy of building synergy and oneness aimed at the developing the nation, Nigeria.

Chu believes that if such ideology is bought

Yves Rocher Store at Palms Mall, Lekki

HRH (Dr) Appolus Chu, Egbere Emere Okori of Eleme Kingdom, Rivers State riding on his gifted horse

HRH (Dr) Appolus Chu, Egbere Emere Okori of Eleme Kingdom, Rivers State with HRH Emir of Misua, Bauchi State, HRH Alhaji Ahmed Suleiman flanked by some chiefs during the visit

into by other traditional rulers, in the nation, it will no doubt bring greatness to Nigeria because development will become the order of the day as traditional rulers are those who hold the system down for government to avoid distraction.Traditional rulers contribute immensely to social development of the society and as such can trickle development as long as there is peace, love and stability and this is what HRH Appolus Chu stands for – synergy, unity, relationship and connectivity amongst traditional rulers across the nation.

“Unity and prosperity in this great country could be more realised if the traditional rulers in the different parts of the country could interact with themselves. By so doing their subjects will emulate them,” Chu said.

The massive show of ovation, claps and cheers, all indicated that an august visitor has entered Misua and the people were fully prepared to receive him. Accosted by royal horsemen, all positioned with the reputable sense of royalty and decked in colourful traditional attires, HRH (Dr.) Applous Chu was warmly welcomed by the people of Misau to their emirate and to the palace of the Emir of Misua, Bauchi State.

Highly elated and filled with excitement, HRH, Alhaji Ahmed Suleiman embraced his friend and colleague, Dr. Appolus Chu, who came all the way from the Niger Delta in South-south to commensurate with him and his entire emirate for the untimely demise of their children.

Addressing the people of Misua, HRH Chu said, “This visit is long overdue. When the incident where the Misua people lost their children happened, I was so devastated. You know what children stand for, they are our future and when one now loses them, there are apparently some setbacks in the family and community they came from. I pray that as many that had lost their children during that very sad incident, God will fill the vacuums they have left in their lives and that of the communities.”

“We the people of Okoli community in Eleme Kingdom, Rivers State have found it necessary to be here because your Emir is my friend and because he is my friend, the entire people of Misua are my friends too. This visit is also to show love, unity, passion and also to improve in our relationship and we shall continue to

support each other as one Nigeria. When it continues like this and we pass the legacy to our children and next generation, there won’t be need for us to carry gun or to strive with one another,” Chu noted.

In his response, HRH Ahmed Suleiman thanked Chu for his visit, noting that the people of Misau Emirate will never forget the gesture demonstrated by HRH, Appolus Chu who did not only travel miles to visit and commensurate with them but went further to donated five million naira to the deceased families.

“Unity and prosperity in this great country could be more realised if the traditional rulers in the different parts of the country could interact with themselves. By so doing their subjects will emulate them. Through such interaction, religious and tribal crisis which have disturbed our beloved country will be tackled,” he noted.

The Emir of Misau said further that it is the tradition of the Misua people that when visitors come, they are given traditional gifts as a token of appreciation of their visit. To this end, HRH Chu was presented with some royal gifts which included a well decorated white horse on which HRH Appolus Chu took a ride.

35/LIVING

08.06.2018

FERTILITY WITH DR. KEMI AILOJE

Tel + 2348033083580, Email:Info@lifelinkfertility.com, Website: lifelinkfertility.com

FERTILITY PROFILING: KNOWING YOUR FERTILITY STATUS (PART 2) Prolactin: Produced by the pituitary gland and causes milk production. In women this test is done to find out why they are not menstruating, or why they are having infertility problems or abnormal nipple discharge. Raised levels in a woman who is not pregnant or breastfeeding can be a signal for fertility problems as well as irregular periods.

Estradiol Test: Estradiol is an important form of estrogen. It is used to measure a woman’s ovarian function and to evaluate the quality of the eggs. Like FSH, it is done on the third day of a woman’s menstrual cycle.

Other Tests Include: Thyroid Stimulating Hormone (TSH), FreeT3, T4, Anti-Mullarian Hormone (AMH), etc.

Tests to evaluate the Uterus and F allopian Tubes Uterine abnormalities that can contribute to infertility include congenital structural abnormalities, such as a uterine septum (a band of tissue that makes the uterine cavity small) fibroids; polyps; and other structural abnormalities. vPelvic ultrasound — In a transvaginal ultrasound, a small ultrasound probe is inserted into the vagina; this provides a clearer image of the uterus and ovaries than ultrasound that is performed through the abdomen. It does not require that the patient to be sedated or anesthetized, and no risks. It is used to measure the size and shape of the uterus and ovaries and to determine if there are structural abnormalities (such as fibroids or ovarian cysts). If abnormalities are seen, further testing may be needed. It can also be used for for Antral Follicular Count (AFC). vHystenosonogram (HSN) — Infusion of sterile saline into the uterine cavity via a small catheter placed through the cervical opening enhances the visualisation of the inside of the uterus(womb) during transvaginal ultrasound. vHysterosalpingogram — Hysterosalpingogram (HSG) is used to help identify structural

abnormalities of the uterus and fallopian tubes.

It involves inserting a small catheter through the cervix and into the uterus. A liquid that can be seen on x-ray is injected through the catheter, which fills the uterus and fallopian tubes. An x-ray is taken after the liquid is injected, which shows the outline of the uterus and tubes. An abnormally shaped uterus or blocked fallopian tube would be visible on the x-ray. The test is done while the woman is awake and lying on an x-ray table. Most women experience moderate to severe pelvic cramps when the liquid is injected, but this usually improves after 5 to 10 minutes.

The test is usually performed 6 to 10 days after first day of the menstrual period (before ovulation has occurred). vLaparoscopy — This is not routinely done, but may be necessitated by reports of previous investigations. During laparoscopy, a thin, lighted tube is inserted through a small incision in the abdomen, allowing the physician to view the uterus, ovaries, and fallopian tubes. Laparoscopy is performed as a day surgery procedure and requires that the patient receive general anesthesia.

Laparoscopy can detect damage and obstruction

of the fallopian tubes, endometriosis, and other abnormalities of the pelvic structures that may affect infertility. vHysteroscopy — A small tube containing a light source is inserted through the cervix and into the uterus (womb) to directly visualise the lining of the uterus and the sites where the fallopian tubes enter the uterus. Air or fluid is injected to expand the uterus and to allow the physician to see inside the uterus.

Evaluations done to assess fertility status in men vBlood tests: To determine blood levels of: Follicle Stimulating Hormone Follicle Stimulating Hormone is produced in the pituitary gland for men and important in the production of sperm. Levels of FSH in men rise with age, but can also indicate testicular damage and reduced sperm production. Low levels of FSH are detected when men are not producing sperm.

Luteinizing Hormone Luteinising Hormone (LH) is produced by the pituitary gland and is important for male and female fertility. In women it governs the menstrual cycle, peaking before ovulation. In

men it stimulates the production of testosterone.

Raised LH in men can signal that the testes are not producing enough testosterone.

Prolactin: The test is done in men when there is a lack of sexual desire, difficulty getting an erection, or if there might be a problem with the pituitary gland.

Raised levels in men can cause reduced sex drive, lack of energy, erectile dysfunction and fertility problems.

These hormones therefore examine the pituitary function.

Testosterone (Free and Total) Hormonal test: Testosterone is a male sex hormone which is produced in the testicles of men. It is responsible for bone and muscle strength, as well as mood, energy and sexual function. Levels decline with age and it is usual to find naturally elevated levels in men. Low testosterone is more common than raised testosterone in the absence of supplementation.

Sex Hormone Binding Globulin (SHBG): Most of the sex hormones - testosterone, oestrogen and dihydrotestosterone (DHT) - found in the blood is bound to Sex Hormone Binding Globulin (SHBG) which means that they are unavailable to the cells. Measuring the level of SHBG in your blood gives important information about your levels of "free" or unbound hormones which are biologically active and available for use. Elevated SHBG indicates that there is less testosterone or oestrogen available whereas low levels can mean an excess of available hormones in the male. vGenetic Screening Counselling: This is an important aspect of profiling often recommended to educate males and females about the possibility of parent-to-child transmission, possible impact of the abnormality, prevention and treatments available to prevent parent-to-child transmission e.g. Pre Genetic implantation Diagnosis (PGD) or Polymerase Chain Reaction(PCR) Counselling to prevent transfer of embryos with sickle cell diseases to a female. Concluded.

OPINION

THE STATE OF THE NIGERIAN ALCOHOLIC BEVERAGES INDUSTRY Tunde Opanubi After commentating on the industry for several years, I was becoming increasingly aware that what I was being told about developments was not what I was actually seeing in the market place. I started wondering why. Who is telling me this? Why do businesses believe it? Paying for it? Why is everyone copying everyone else? And is someone doing something about it? Or am I the only one? Well, now it looks like somebody has been doing something about it.

“And what a state it’s in!” as a response to my headline, says Steven McDermott, Director and co-founder of CSL, a Lagos-based creative research consultancy, when I met with him at his offices in Lekki. And he’s quite “miffed”, apparently an English word for angry.

“Why would a $2 billion industry (growing at 6% yearly) make its business decisions based primarily on “remote research” by people who have barely or never set foot in the country, let alone actually lived and worked here? How could you possibly understand a country and its culture(s), its nuances, its challenges and opportunities?” he asks.

Apparently the alcohol industry does. “Too much taste testing!” he jokes. Taking a more serious note he stresses (but not without a hint of irony), “they really need to come to their senses.”

This is, from this reporter’s own research is typical of Steve. “Wit and irony with a very serious undertone, and a bit of charm along the way. It’s not always easy to listen to, but he tells it as it is,” as one source said. “Classic British self-deprecation with a disarming edge. You may well take offence at first, but after reflection you realise he probably understands your business better than you do.” says another. As I quickly discovered, they were not entirely wrong.

This “remote research” as he calls it, or data collection, is conducted mainly by ‘phone, email and information gathered online with, in some

Minister of Industry, Trade & Investment, Dr. Okechukwu Enelamah

cases, a contribution by “3rd party resources” on the ground.

His own research has shown that little of it is reliable, is often estimated, sometimes just simply “made-up.”

“These are business decisions that affect the whole food (or drink) chain, from the brand owners, the shareholders, the importers, distributors, marketers, advertising agencies and their clients.

It doesn’t make sense.”

It was this initial frustration that led to the birth of CSL. “You can either get angry about it or do something about it,” he says.

As a London-trained creative, creative director and creative strategist with nearly 30 years experience under his belt, the last 14 here in Nigeria, and having been at the sharp end of the stick when working on projects that have been inspired by this “misinformation”, he just might have a point.

“I shudder to think how many millions of advertising dollars have been wasted over the

years”, he adds. “And when you think about all the money that has been invested before it even gets to that point it gets even scarier.

So if you trace it back to its source you have the solution. If you’re the brand owner or custodian of that brand you want to be as sure as possible that your money is being used wisely.

This is not a criticism of the businesses and clients based here, they can only work with what “Global” gives them, and it takes more time (and money) to challenge it. It’s just ridiculous that these directives are being based on information being conducted by people thousands of miles away. This is not just a challenge for the Nigerian industry either. It’s continent-wide.

We’ve spent the past 12 months conducting our own research until we felt we were ready to launch. I’ve personally visited in excess of 300 outlets, gathering information, talking to people; distributors, marketers, owners, managers, customers, door-men and shelf-stackers, everybody, many several times over at various times of the day, evening and well in to the night …And that’s just Lagos.”

Clearly getting into his groove, Steve continues.

“Look, we’re here. We live here. We get it.

It’s not actually rocket science. The best ideas normally aren’t.

What we offer is primarily a bespoke “brand health” service that provides honest, consistent, digestible data. Data that is meaningful, useful, actionable and up-to-date. Data that not only informs the decision-maker’s, but inspires the decision-making.

A bit like going to the doctor and hoping you don’t hear bad news. But like any good doctor we’ll tell you what you need to hear, not always what you want to hear. And of course prescribe the appropriate treatment. It may be a couple of headache tablets or major surgery, but you can be sure we won’t put lipstick on a pig!”

Clearly passionate about his “mission”, he apologies to this journalist for “blathering on…

I think when I talk, weird I know” and says, “Let me land!” And adds, “Perhaps we should have just done a Q&A!” “We visit both the on- and off-trade outlets. We see what people are buying or consuming, who they are, where they are and when.

We consider the demographics, the merchandising, the pricing and the competition amongst several other factors.

We meet with the local customs authorities, industry bodies and distributors.

We prepare the final report, and as it’s a combination of qualitative and quantitive research, our interpretation of the data and recommendations are based on insights we‘ve gathered after years of experience on the ground.

And when you come from a creative background you see things rather differently than a desk-bound analyst 3000 miles away!

We see what is happening today and are far better positioned to predict what will happen tomorrow. Or to put it another way, we create simplicity out of chaos.”

“The timing couldn’t be more perfect”, Steve adds, “there’s a global backlash against the over-reliance of ‘big data’ and algorithms, especially from the large multinationals like P&G and Unilever. Which is great for us as obviously our service will not just available to the alcohol industry.”

He says, “Therefore a final nod should go to the former CEO of Unilever Africa, Frank Braeken, another source of inspiration. He said, and I quote, ‘the data we have for Africa we don’t need, the data we need we don’t have.’”

“Well, now you do.”You may or may not agree with Steve. For a confidential chat you can contact Steve directly on 0806 007 3847 for more information.

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37/THISLIFE

08.06.2018

Ogunsanwo: Democracy Has Gone Crazy in Nigeria In this exclusive interview with Martins Ifijeh, the Founder, The FactBox Company, Babajide Ogunsanwo, who leads one of Africa’s biggest data analysts, speaks on how to deepen democratic values in Nigeria and his plan to launch Nigeria’s first leadership radio station We are approaching two decades of rebuilding democracy in Nigeria. To what extent would you say that the construction work on Nigeria’s house of democracy is near completion?

Presently, Nigeria is far from ready to move into the house called democracy. We have not even started to paint the house. Though our past was dark, we should not lose hope. Our future shines brighter than the sun.

With every drop of blood in me, I believe that our future shines brighter than the sun because of our human potential. By the end of this year, the National Bureau of Statistics (NBS) reveals that our population would have surpassed the two hundred million mark. No other country in Africa has this potential. If this potential is combined with innovation and our natural resources, then we can achieve greatness. If this potential is combined with toxic leadership and gerrymandering, it will lead to our disintegration.

So, how much progress has Nigeria made with democracy after 18 years?

It depends on how you want to define and measure progress. The presence of evil doesn’t necessarily mean the absence of good; so 18 years of non-military rule is not equivalent to 18 years of democratic rule.

In 1999, the national electoral body in Nigeria recorded less than 30 million valid votes in the presidential election even though there were more than 120 million adult Nigerians. This means that a significant minority determined who became president.

Again in 2015, INEC recorded less than 30 million valid votes even though there were more than 180 million adult Nigerians. So, it is evident that democracy has gone crazy in any country where a significant minority determines who becomes the leader of the country.

Shouldn’t democratic progress be measured on the quality of democratic institutions rather than voter turnout?

Democratic institutions are not built by waving a magic wand. You need people to build democratic institutions. It is tough to build these institutions if the people are not interested in who leads them. When majority of Nigerians do not turn out to vote, it means the country has shown apathy towards building democratic institutions.

In developed nations, especially in Norway, Denmark and the United States of America, democracy is sometimes summarised as “Government of the people, by the people and for the people.”

In a sharp contrast, in Nigeria, democracy is “Government of the few, by the few for the few.” This is why I say that democracy has gone crazy in Nigeria.

Even in business, few people control the wealth. The National Deposit Insurance Commission (NDIC) reveals that only two percent of Nigerians hold 90 per cent of the deposits at commercial banks. Again, craziness is whenever a significant minority determine the fate of the majority.

What successes should we celebrate in Nigeria’s democracy and how can we deepen democratic values?

There has been progress in freedom of speech when compared to the pre-1999 era. However, freedom of movement has declined, especially in the North Eastern region.

We need to improve on freedom of education, especially by reducing the number of young girls that have no education.

The most important need of a young man in Nigeria is not access to the ballot box; it is access to the job market. In 1999, the official unemployment rate was 8.2 per cent, now it is 40 per cent. How does that sound?

But make no mistakes; democracy did not

Ogunsanwo

suddenly go crazy under President Buhari.

Nigerians just reasonably hoped that he would be able to drive the craziness to a screeching halt.

implement practical character development programmes such as mentoring programmes for young Nigerians.

What is the possibility of separating religion from democracy in Nigeria?

Religion and democracy are both about systems that people believe in. So, it is difficult to separate them. I believe that Nigeria should adopt one national religion. It should not be Christianity or Islam. “Doing Good” should be our national religion.

A lot of Nigerians are devoted Christians and Muslims yet Nigeria still ranks among the most corrupt countries in the world. Clearly, there is a lot of hypocrisy in the land.

The foundation of a lasting democracy is laid within the family and not in the Church or Mosque. The greatest democratic institution known to man is called “Character”. Character is built through good parenting, positive association, formal and informal education as well as social work.

Just as the government creates economic development programmes, it now needs to

How can we encourage more Nigerians to participate in leadership and nation building?

To make democracy thrive, we must be a nation of doers, not observers. One who does not vote has no right to complain on the quality of leadership.

We make a big mistake if we think that nation building is to be carried out by only adults. Children, teenagers and young adults have a role to play in nation building.

The nation has failed to introduce the principles of leadership and democracy to the younger generation; this has led to a dearth of quality leaders in Nigeria. This must be corrected.

One reliable way to increase the number of high impact leaders in Nigeria is to increase the access that citizens have to leadership skill development.

This is why my current community devel-

opment project is to launch Nigeria’s first leadership radio station before 2020. The radio station will focus on sharing quality information that helps to build great leaders.

What is your prognosis for next year’s general election?

Every day is an election because everyday circumstances influence people’s opinion.

Globally, the candidate with the best manifesto isn’t the one who wins. It is the candidate that creates the strongest emotional (feelings) connection with voters that wins. The perception about the candidate, not electoral promise will determine who wins the ballot next year.

More importantly, Nigeria’s national poverty rate of 63 per cent not only means that majority of voters are poor, but that we are going to again rely on the ‘wise judgment of the poor’ to determine Nigeria’s next President.

Clearly, our number one enemy is not Boko Haram, it is poverty.

Remember the words of John F Kennedy, “The ignorance of one voter in a democracy impairs the security of all.”

38/PERSPECTIVE

08.06.2018

Peter Obi and the Moment of Truth Innocent Okoye A few days ago, the Presidency acknowledged that a former governor of Anambra State, Mr. Peter Obi, was illegally impeached for refusing to inflate the state budget as demanded by the then State House of Assembly. That report was not elaborate; as the same Presidency should have taken Nigerians behind the scenes to reveal those who pulled the strings for the conspiracy and what they desired to do with the expected excess public funds. Among other queries, was it a patriotic initiative to provide more projects that would benefit the people of the state? Or, did they want it as part of the old order, where powerful vested interests regard public funds as booty to be shared?

Interestingly, the revelation by the Presidency anchored by President Buhari’s Senior Special Assistant on Media and Publicity, Garba Shehu – is coming over a decade after the event. It is also instructive that some of those who recall how the entire madness played out have been speaking out.

Confirming the statement, Chief Stephen Okeke, a highly-respected community leader in Anambra State, drew attention to some national newspapers like Vanguard, which published the presumed reasons for Obi’s impeachment. According to him, “Aside from the demand to accommodate their interests, the state legislators accused the then governor of not implementing the budget as approved by them: that he used N43.2 million to repair the burnt Government House against the N298 million already appropriated; and also spent a paltry N81 million for the reconstruction of the destroyed Governor’s Lodge for which N486 million was appropriated. Having failed to get him to play ball, they told him pointblank that the appropriated money was for ‘sensitive interests.”

Describing some other reasons given in the notice to impeach Peter Obi as incredible, Chief Okeke said: “Would you believe that the third item on the notice was that Governor Obi was saving money for the state without their approval – savings that came to over N75 billion as at his hand-over to his successor? They also accused him of degrading the Office of the Governor by using Peugeot 406 and purchasing furniture for government establishments locally.”

Continuing, Chief Okeke regretted the selfish involvement of some people close to Obi in the impeachment plot; and expressed gratitude to the then Chief Justice of Nigeria, Justice Alfa Belgore, for standing firm in his refusal to lend the imprimatur of the Judiciary to that reckless act.

On his part, a former Information Commissioner in Anambra State, Chief Joe-Martins Uzodike in a press release noted that the Presidency and the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) were not part of the impeachment. He asserted that the plot was localised; having been hatched by some self-seeking state legislators and predatory politicians that had in the past been raiding the public treasury through inflated budgets, inflated contracts and largesse. For such people, he said, a savings culture was unacceptable.

Expressing satisfaction that Obi has been vindicated completely, Chief Uzodike submitted that: “If he had buckled when the House members were harassing him for saving money, he would not have been able to leave over 75 billion Naira for the state when he handed over in 2014. If he had agreed to award outrageous contracts, Anambra State in his tenure would not have been named the Best State in road network, in health and education.”

The fore-going provides some insights into the modus operandi of predators in Nigerian politics. With his famed focus and solid fidelity to the common good, Peter Obi took on the predators head-on and subdued them; leaving a governance record acknowledged locally and internationally.

Obi’s political history is turbulent simply because he is bent on leaving a new order of responsibility and accountability in the conduct of public affairs. Human society has a blend of the good, the bad and the ugly.

While there are those who make sacrifices for enduring positive change, there are also

Obi

antagonists who aim to frustrate progress.

However, it is instructive that in the long-run such antagonisms often highlight the efforts of builders of nations.

A clear case of such antagonism is the predatory conspiracy against Peter Obi in the last Anambra State governorship election.

Barely a year after, the conspirators are in disarray because their cause was not a just one; while their prime target has since moved on to more edifying pursuits. With his increasing national visibility, acceptability as a man of integrity and a track record of good governance, many Nigerians are wondering why he is not indicating interest in higher public office.

Before his tenure the manufacturing sector – not to be confused with commerce was comatose. The few operators that hung on groaned under the debilitating effects of an uncongenial environment of bad roads, low patronage, excessive (and mostly illegal) taxation, insecurity, no government support, among others. The Obi administration resuscitated this critical sector not propaganda, but by practical steps including development of an Industrial Policy for the state, consultations with operators and concrete enablement for them which yielded tremendous results and boosted the socio-economy of the state and environs. Link roads, other relevant infrastructure and logistic support were provided for such vibrant manufacturing outfits as Innoson Vehicles, Chikason, Cutix Cable, Juhel Pharmaceuticals, Krisoral, Orange Drugs, Ekulo Group, and many others. The administration also attracted giant manufacturers like Intafact, INNOSON, Neimet, and Distel.

Among others, Innoson Group acknowledges that the patronage of the Obi administration ensured the survival of its vehicle manufacturing company – with the purchase of billions of Naira worth of vehicles and personal introductions to the Presidency and other state governors.

Easily one of the unsurpassed attainments of Peter Obi was in education. Here, he achieved another first on January 1, 2009, with his return of schools to their original owners- proprietors – voluntary agencies, including churches – with commendable results. While the management of the schools was transferred to the agencies, the state

government retained the funding responsibilities, including capital projects, staff salaries and emoluments, and other recurrent expenditures. Having thus stabilised basic education in the state, Anambra State leaped from its usual 24thplace of the 36 states in many external examinations to Number One in results of both the NECO and WAEC examinations for three consecutive years.

Indeed, this revolutionary partnership and phenomenal achievements informed a World Bank study which recommended the ‘Obi Education Model’ to other Governments in Africa.

Under the Obi tenure, Anambra State was the first in Nigeria to procure and distribute over 30,000 computers with Internet access to secondary schools. Microsoft Academies were also established in those secondary schools – the biggest of such initiatives in Africa to date.

Having determined that the partnership with the voluntary agencies/churches was working, Peter Obi steadily extended the formula to other critical sectors. In the health sector, for instance, the symbiotic relationship resulted in a tremendous boost to healthcare delivery across the state with investments of grants, structures and supplies to the tune of several billions of Naira. The Obi administration also constructed the Joseph Nwilo Heart Centre at St. Joseph’s Hospital, AdaziNnukwu, where heart operations are now being performed satisfactorily. The grooming of healthcare professionals similarly received serious attention. By the end of his tenure in 2014, over 12 health institutions, including two hospitals, had secured accreditation for their courses and programmes. Prior to his assumption of office in 2006, no health institution in Anambra State was duly accredited.

Predictably, the achievements of Peter Obi as governor elicited several authentic, verifiable commendations and awards.

Among others, he won the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation US$1 million prize for best-performing State in immunisation in the South-east, which funds contributed to the construction of 10 Maternal and Child Care Centres across the state, particularly in rural communities.

One of the acts of Obi that nobody would wish away is his ability, against the conven-

tion, to clear debts owed pensioners running into over 37 billion Naira; his consistency in paying workers’ salaries; and commitment to paying contractors on job-completion certificates generated – and yet being able to leave in excess of N75 billion in the state treasury for his successor. This is one of the features that define him from others that seek the governance of the people. How he did it will one day become a topical issue in this country. Another marvel is that even with the huge savings, he still recorded more achievements than most others that owed hundreds of billions of Naira.

Five years after he left office, the testimonials have continued to pour for his integrity in and out of government, his vast knowledge of Nigeria and its developmental challenges as well as his strong commitment to the sustainable progress of the country.

With a justified sense of fulfilment, Peter Obi has always his priority as how to change the value-frame of the people.

Besides personal example of right conduct and approach to life, which made him inspire the people of Anambra State to shun extravagance and epicurean life-styles, he invested heavily in education. His administration’s massive investment in education was in realisation that education is the easiest way to change the mind-set of the people and to develop the human resources. The benefits soon began to manifest as across the country and internationally, many people and institutions started looking upon Anambra State with admiration and respect.

What is most unique about Peter Obi is his refusal to flow with the tide. In Nigeria no governor has left leaving a huge amount of money in the treasury. In Obi’s own case, he not only left over 75 billion Naira, but did that without owing any financial institution or raising a bond.

The revelation on Obi championed by the Presidency is the vindication of those who have always considered him as a man of integrity in politics. No doubt, more of such will follow even from those who are determined that he must be wished out of circulation. .Okoye sent this piece from Nnamdi Azikiwe University, Awka

T H I S D AY ˾ FRIDAY JUNE 8, 2018

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T H I S D AY ˾ FRIDAY JUNE 8, 2018

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T H I S D AY • FRIDAY, JUNE 8, 2018

42

BUSINESS/MONEYGUIDE

FG Seeks Improved Investment from European Businesses Ndubuisi Francis in Abuja The federal government has called for improved private sector investment in Nigeria

by European businesses, saying that the country’s investment climate is now very attractive and conducive.

Minister of Budget and National Planning, Senator Udoma Udo Udoma, who was on the panel discussant on ‘Delivering Jobs, Growth and Global Competitiveness’ at the on-going High-Level Conference on Jobs and Growth in West Africa, in Brussels, Belgium, said the Buhari administration had taken steps to improve the business climate in Nigeria, stating that the country’s business outlook for 2018 and in the medium-term was very positive.

The main objective of the conference was for the European Union (EU) to formally present to the West African sub region the European Investment Plan (EIP) as a tool for driving investment and inclusive economic growth in West Africa.

Other members of the panel were Mrs. Marie-Laure Akin-Olugbade of the African Development Bank; Mr. Mamadou Traore of the ECOWAS Commission; Mr. Abdoulaye Fall of ECOWAS Bank for Investment and Development; and Mr. Stefano Manservisi, the Director General for International Cooperation and Development of the European Commission.

A statement from the minister’s spokesman, Mr. Akpandem James said Udoma told the gathering that Nigeria was open for business, noting

that the current administration had taken steps to improve the business climate by initiating reforms aimed at stabilising the macro-economic environment, improving infrastructure and removing impediments that hitherto constrained business development in the country.

While making a presentation on Nigeria’s Economic Recovery and Growth Plan (ERGP), the minister explained that the Plan has three strategic objectives of restoring and sustaining growth, investing in the people and building a competitive economy.

He stressed on government’s determination to deliver on these objectives as it is aiming to achieve sustained inclusive growth and attaining at least a 7 per cent GDP growth rate by 2020.

Experts Harp on Increased Private, Public Sectors Collaboration Nume Ekeghe The Chief Executive Officer of Rand Merchant Bank Nigeria (RMB Nigeria), Mr. Micheal Larbie, has stressed the need for enhanced collaboration between the private and public sector to boost economic growth.

This, he also said would help the federal government realise its objective in its Economic Recovery and Growth Plan (ERGP). Speaking on the sidelines of RMB Nigeria’s fifth anniversary celebration in Lagos yesterday, Larbie said: “For the first time, there is an

ERGP that links to the budget and hopefully it leads to real sector focus by bringing the public and the private sector to talk about the issues that hinder the ability to progress on what we need to do to move the country forward.

“So that lays a foundation for us to be able to support our clients more in the real sector. Banks, insurance companies as well as the Pension Fund Administrators have a critical role to play by working with government and other players to duly mobilise the right finances that support

relatively longer-term funding that is needed to fund roads, bridges and so on.” On his part, the Managing Director Sigma Pensions Limited, Mr. Dave Uduanu, also called on government to do more in creating sustainable opportunities for the private sector to thrive He added: “The key is for the private sector to engage more with the government and that the private sector should do more as well as investment banks and intermediaries should do prepare projects that investors such as insurance and pension funds can invest in.”

Buhari

MARKET INDICATORS MONEY AND CREDIT STATISTICS

MARCH

Broad Money (M2)

24,303,049.86

-- Narrow Money (M1)

10,912,604.10

---- Currency Outside Banks

1,668,378.21

---- Demand Deposits

9,244,225.90

-- Quasi Money

13,390,445.76

Net Foreign Assets (NFA)

15,619,134.18

Net Domestic Assets(NDA)

8,683,915.68

-- Net Domestic Credit (NDC)

FG WinsThree Awards for Bond Issuance Nigeria was celebrated yesterday when it won awards in three categories for its securities issuance activities in the domestic and international capital markets.

The awards, according to a statement were: Best Sovereign Bond in Africa - US$3 billion -the dual-Tranche (10 and 30 year) Eurobonds that was issued in November 2017; Most Innovative Bond - US$300 million Diaspora Bond issued in June 2017; and Best Naira Bond - N100 billion 7-year Inaugural Sukuk issued in September 2017.

The statement explained that the awards were bestowed

on the country by the EMEA Finance (Europe, the Middle East and Africa).

Furthermore, it noted that the awards were testament of the Debt Management Office’s ability in packaging and offering products that appeal strongly to local and international investors.

“Even more significant for Nigeria is that awards by EMEA Finance are made after evaluating several Transactions, each of which is unique, using clearly defined criteria. That three transactions by Nigeria won awards from a competitive process, is a huge plus for Nigeria.

“Nigeria issued its first

Diaspora Bond for $300 million in June 2017. The bond was selected for the award both for the uniqueness in the manner in which it was structured. The bond is also the first security issued by Nigeria that is registered with the US Securities and Exchange Commission.

“With the $3 billion dualtranche (USD1.5 billion for 10 years and USD1.5 billion), Nigeria recorded several firsts, making it a landmark transaction. Firstly, it was the very first time that Nigeria raised an amount that large at once in the International Capital Market (ICM).

Obaseki Revives N5.1bn Urhonigbe Rubber Plantation Adibe Emenyonu in Benin City In deliberate step to exposition the state as an agro-based industrial hub, Edo State Governor, Mr. Godwin Obaseki, yesterday revived the Urhonigbe Rubber Plantain by planting a fresh rubber tree, symbolising take-off of the N5.1 billion rubber estate The rubber plantation situated at Urhonigbe, Orhionmwon local government area of the state is to be operated by a private firm Obaseki who expressed his excitement in leading the re-development of the

plantation, recalled that the motion to establish the rubber plantation was moved by his grandfather in1952.

He thanked the management of Rubber Estate Nigeria Limited for investing about N5.1billion in Urhonigbe Rubber Plantation as the move will create employment for the youths in the area. The governor called on the company to partner with the community and entre into an agreement to donate more land for planting of rubber to create more agripreneurs.

“We are set to accelerate the economic growth of Orhionmwon Local Government Area, starting from the base,

as Information and Communication Technology (ICT) is introduced in all our primary schools to integrating them into the Edo-Best programme.”

He assured that more resources will be channeled into improving the healthcare system in the area while efforts will be made to accelerate the construction of roads in the council.

The governor assured the people that his administration will re-construct the old roads and open up the area for more economic activities, adding that the “the community people will be involved in the development of the area.”

(MILLION NAIRA) 2018

Month

26,267,136.53

---- Credit to Government (Net)

3,823,345.45

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

5,433,209.43

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

-1,609,863.98

---- Credit to Private Sector (CPS)

22,443,791.08

--Other Assets Net

-17,583,220.85

Reserve Money (Base Money)

6,746,646.49

--Currency in Circulation

1,668,378.21

--Banks Reserves

4,357,551.58 • Source - CBN

MANAGED FUNDS Month

MARCH

Inter-Bank Call Rate

15.16

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

14.00

Treasury Bill Rate

11.84

Savings Deposit Rate

4.07

1 Month Deposit Rate

8.82

3 Months Deposit Rate

9.72

6 Months Deposit Rate

10.93

12 Months Deposit Rate

10.21

Prime Lending rate

17.35

Maximum Lending Rate

31.55 • Monetary Policy Rate - 13%

OPEC DAILY BASKET PRICE AS AT, WED, JUNE 6, 2018 The price of OPEC basket of fourteen crudes stood at $73.05 a barrel on Wednesday, compared with $72.79 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), Zafiro (Equatorial Guinea), Rabi Light (Gabon), Iran Heavy (Islamic Republic of Iran), Basra Light (Iraq), Kuwait Export (Kuwait), Es Sider (Libya), Bonny Light (Nigeria), Qatar Marine (Qatar), Arab Light (Saudi Arabia), Murban (UAE) and Merey (Venezuela).

SOURCE: OPEC headquarters, Vienna

T H I S D AY • FRIDAY, JUNE 8, 2018

43

MARKET NEWS

Onyema: NSE Demutualisation Process Still on Course Goddy Egene and Nosa Alekhuogie

council and management were working with their advisors to fine-tune some aspect of the demutualisation project.

According to him, they are waiting for the signing of the Demutualisation Bill to be signed into law to fast-track the process. “While waiting for the bill to be signed into law, we are working on some outstanding aspects and providing clarity

The Chief Executive Officer of the Nigerian Stock Exchange(NSE), Mr. Oscar Onyema yesterday said the demutualisation process was still on course. Speaking to THISDAY after the 57th annual general meeting (AGM) of the NSE in Lagos, Onyema said the

on the process through regular engagement with stakeholders.

We are very positive that the demutualisation of the NSE will further catalyse the development of transparent and efficient capital market that is very critical to the country’s economic growth,” he said.

Reviewing the performance of the exchange in 2017, Onyema said a total income

of N8.30billion and N3.82 billion surplus before tax were recorded , representing 86 per cent and 5,629 per cent when compared with N4.46 billion and N27.45 million respectively posted in 2016.

“This positive performance, after the significant headwinds witnessed over the past two years, affirms the resilience of our market and its potential as

PRICES FOR SECURITIES TRADED AS OF

a catalyst of economic growth in Nigeria and the hub for Africa. Focus on executing our robust strategy of cost efficiency, products and revenue diversification, as well as innovative and improved operational delivery, underpins this strong performance,” he said. In his address, President of NSE, Mr. Abimbola Ogunbanjo said the exchange had deployed a new

four year corporate strategy that would reposition it as a more investor friendly and customer centric exchange hub in Africa.

“With this new strategy, we are poised to deliver superior performance for our multi-faceted stakeholders especially issuers and investors who continue to access our market to raise and save capital respectively,” he said.

A S AT 3 1 / 0 5 / 2 0 1 8

Price List (Equities) PRICES FOR PREMIUM BOARD SECURITIES FINANCIAL SERVICES S/N 1 2 3

BANKING ACCESS BANK PLC. UNITED BANK FOR AFRICA PLC ZENITH INTERNATIONAL BANK PLC

MARKET CAP(Nm) 300,850.90

PRICE

%CHANGE

TRADES

VOLUME

10.40

-4.59

112

8,077,933

369,353.75

10.80

1.89

261

65,561,668

800,610.59

S/N

-0.39

PRICE

%CHANGE

TRADES

VOLUME

33

4 OTHER FINANCIAL INSTITUTIONS FINANCIAL SERVICES INDUSTRIAL GOODS

10.15

5.73

371

18,270,019

34

371

18,270,019

35

1,186 219,102,073

36

S/N 5 6 BUILDING MATERIALS INDUSTRIAL GOODS OIL AND GAS S/N 7 EXPLORATION AND PRODUCTION OIL AND GAS PREMIUM BOARD TOTALS Price List (Equities) PRICES FOR MAIN BOARD SECURITIES AGRICULTURE S/N 8 9 10 CROP PRODUCTION S/N 11 FISHING/HUNTING/TRAPPING S/N 12 LIVESTOCK/ANIMAL SPECIALTIES AGRICULTURE CONGLOMERATES S/N 13 14 15 16 17 DIVERSIFIED INDUSTRIES CONGLOMERATES CONSTRUCTION/REAL ESTATE S/N 18 BUILDING CONSTRUCTION S/N 19 20 INFRASTRUCTURE/HEAVY CONSTRUCTION S/N 21

815 200,832,054 OTHER FINANCIAL INSTITUTIONS FBN HOLDINGS PLC

BUILDING MATERIALS DANGOTE CEMENT PLC LAFARGE AFRICA PLC.

EXPLORATION AND PRODUCTION SEPLAT PETROLEUM DEVELOPMENT COMPANY LTD

MARKET CAP(Nm) 364,337.22

MARKET CAP(Nm)

PRICE

%CHANGE

TRADES

VOLUME

4,089,721.78

240.00

-1.03

38

2,337,956

301,835.30

34.80

-4.92

137 175 175

1,747,143 4,085,099 4,085,099

MARKET CAP(Nm) 437,332.00

PRICE 743.20

%CHANGE 1.16

22 23 24 REAL ESTATE INVESTMENT TRUSTS (REITS) CONSTRUCTION/REAL ESTATE CONSUMER GOODS S/N 25 AUTOMOBILES/AUTO PARTS S/N 26 27 28 29

TRADES

VOLUME

45

182,144

45

182,144

32

37 38 FOOD PRODUCTS S/N 39 40 FOOD PRODUCTS--DIVERSIFIED S/N 41

45 182,144 1,406 223,369,316

42 HOUSEHOLD DURABLES S/N 43

CROP PRODUCTION FTN COCOA PROCESSORS PLC OKOMU OIL PALM PLC. PRESCO PLC

INFRASTRUCTURE/ HEAVY CONSTRUCTION JULIUS BERGER NIG. PLC. ROADS NIG PLC.

PRICE

%CHANGE

TRADES

VOLUME

23,477.53

12.50

-

30

85,307

1,167,186.33

1,472.50

-4.38

66

228,488

96

313,795

HOUSEHOLD DURABLES NIGERIAN ENAMELWARE PLC. VITAFOAM NIG PLC.

MARKET CAP(Nm)

PRICE

%CHANGE

TRADES

VOLUME

1,680.31

22.10

-

0

0

3,439.82

3.30

-

19 19

146,892 146,892

PERSONAL/HOUSEHOLD PRODUCTS P Z CUSSONS NIGERIA PLC. UNILEVER NIGERIA PLC.

MARKET CAP(Nm)

PRICE

%CHANGE

TRADES

VOLUME

86,754.92

21.85

-

37

613,738

295,580.53

51.45

5.00

50

695,336

87

1,309,074

920

15,330,021

BANKING

PRICE

%CHANGE

TRADES

VOLUME

4.26

-

0 0

0 0

%CHANGE

TRADES

VOLUME

1,403.06

0.53

-3.64

5

191,180

221.82 2,111.93

0.57 3.25

-

4 0

49,464 0

51,216.47

1.26

-0.79

157

16,207,774

42,355.06

14.70

-0.34

31 197 197

415,786 16,864,204 16,864,204

MARKET CAP(Nm) 711.32

S/N 55 56 57 58 59

PRICE

%CHANGE

TRADES

VOLUME

60

4.79

-

0 0

0 0

61

TRADES

VOLUME

MARKET CAP(Nm)

PRICE

36,366.00 165.00

27.55 6.60

%CHANGE -

23 0

73,400 0

23

73,400

62 63 64 65 66

REAL ESTATE DEVELOPMENT UACN PROPERTY DEVELOPMENT CO. LIMITED

MARKET CAP(Nm)

PRICE

%CHANGE

TRADES

VOLUME

5,560.57

2.14

-

29

343,911

29

343,911

REAL ESTATE INVESTMENT TRUSTS (REITS) SKYE SHELTER FUND PLC UNION HOMES REAL ESTATE INVESTMENT TRUST (REIT) UPDC REAL ESTATE INVESTMENT TRUST

MARKET CAP(Nm) 2,000.00

PRICE

%CHANGE

TRADES

VOLUME

69

100.00

-

0

0

70

11,300.89

45.20

-

0

0

71

500

72 73

26,682.70

AUTOMOBILES/AUTO PARTS DN TYRE & RUBBER PLC

MARKET CAP(Nm) 1,431.80

BEVERAGES--BREWERS/DISTILLERS CHAMPION BREW. PLC. GOLDEN GUINEA BREW. PLC. GUINNESS NIG PLC INTERNATIONAL BREWERIES PLC.

MARKET CAP(Nm) 15,658.99

10.00

-

1 1

500

53

417,811

67 68

74 PRICE

%CHANGE

TRADES

VOLUME

0.30

-

1 1

6,000 6,000

76

PRICE

%CHANGE

TRADES

VOLUME

77

2.00

1.52

15

585,064

242.22

0.89

-

0

0

219,038.28

100.00

-

41

112,495

382,515.86

44.50

-9.64

21

350,903

75

78 79 80

2,610,540

MARKET CAP(Nm)

FOOD PRODUCTS-DIVERSIFIED CADBURY NIGERIA PLC. NESTLE NIGERIA PLC.

DIAMOND BANK PLC ECOBANK TRANSNATIONAL INCORPORATED FIDELITY BANK PLC GUARANTY TRUST BANK PLC. JAIZ BANK PLC SKYE BANK PLC STERLING BANK PLC. UNION BANK NIG.PLC. UNITY BANK PLC WEMA BANK PLC.

PRICE

60

0 6,924,344

S/N

MARKET CAP(Nm)

2.22

364,630

45

3,191,533

2.30

0 361

23,847 1,655,543

1,535,990

878,220

18,239.45

47

1,466,322

33

588,095

52

-

57

106

57

-1.58

-3.06

13 73

VOLUME

2.65

31.10

19.00

-

1,535,990

17.45

127,521.81

13.45

-5.88

33

209,400.00

3,676.41

80.00

TRADES

2,227,859

50,339.33

75.00

-4.94

VOLUME

138

0

76,312.80

%CHANGE

TRADES

3.35

255,000

75,000.00

0.77

%CHANGE

9.25

0

165,374

PRICE

PRICE

46,250.00

7

VOLUME

48

6,629,916

MARKET CAP(Nm)

-

3

49 50 51 52 53 54 BANKING

5,581,454

356

-4.38

TRADES

MARKET CAP(Nm) 2,310.00

279

0.40

-

LIVESTOCK/ANIMAL SPECIALTIES LIVESTOCK FEEDS PLC.

-1.91

6.55

%CHANGE

46

107.90

1,489.00

0.20

47

862,865.73

1,167.21

PRICE

MARKET CAP(Nm) 511.20

BUILDING CONSTRUCTION ARBICO PLC.

FOOD PRODUCTS DANGOTE FLOUR MILLS PLC DANGOTE SUGAR REFINERY PLC FLOUR MILLS NIG. PLC. HONEYWELL FLOUR MILL PLC MULTI-TREX INTEGRATED FOODS PLC N NIG. FLOUR MILLS PLC. NASCON ALLIED INDUSTRIES PLC UNION DICON SALT PLC.

440.00

FISHING/HUNTING/ TRAPPING ELLAH LAKES PLC.

DIVERSIFIED INDUSTRIES A.G. LEVENTIS NIGERIA PLC. JOHN HOLT PLC. S C O A NIG. PLC. TRANSNATIONAL CORPORATION OF NIGERIA PLC U A C N PLC.

44 PERSONAL/HOUSEHOLD PRODUCTS CONSUMER GOODS FINANCIAL SERVICES

NIGERIAN BREW. PLC.

MARKET CAP(Nm)

REAL ESTATE DEVELOPMENT S/N

S/N 31

25.50

BANKING

442 127,192,453

30 BEVERAGES--BREWERS/DISTILLERS

INSURANCE CARRIERS, BROKERS AND SERVICES AFRICAN ALLIANCE INSURANCE COMPANY PLC AIICO INSURANCE PLC. AXAMANSARD INSURANCE PLC CONSOLIDATED HALLMARK INSURANCE PLC CONTINENTAL REINSURANCE PLC CORNERSTONE INSURANCE COMPANY PLC. EQUITY ASSURANCE PLC. GOLDLINK INSURANCE PLC GREAT NIGERIAN INSURANCE PLC GUINEA INSURANCE PLC. INTERNATIONAL ENERGY INSURANCE COMPANY PLC LASACO ASSURANCE PLC. LAW UNION AND ROCK INS. PLC. LINKAGE ASSURANCE PLC MUTUAL BENEFITS ASSURANCE PLC. N.E.M INSURANCE CO (NIG) PLC. NIGER INSURANCE CO. PLC. PRESTIGE ASSURANCE CO. PLC. REGENCY ALLIANCE INSURANCE COMPANY PLC SOVEREIGN TRUST INSURANCE PLC STANDARD ALLIANCE INSURANCE PLC. STANDARD TRUST ASSURANCE PLC UNIC DIVERSIFIED HOLDINGS PLC. UNIVERSAL INSURANCE COMPANY PLC VERITAS KAPITAL ASSURANCE PLC WAPIC INSURANCE PLC

MARKET CAP(Nm) 30,803.32

PRICE

%CHANGE

TRADES

VOLUME

1.33

1.53

92

10,449,717

357,816.25

19.50

-2.74

93

5,320,435

55,052.11

1.90

4.97

287

20,214,931

1,191,962.76

40.50

-1.22

321

74,004,801

18,857.12 9,716.21 37,427.54 161,620.18 10,169.72 29,316.59

0.64 0.70 1.30 5.55 0.87 0.76

1.59 -1.41 4.00 -4.31 4.11

MARKET CAP(Nm)

PRICE

%CHANGE

TRADES

VOLUME

4,117.00

0.20

-

0

0

4,019.52

0.58

1.72

27

3,028,104

26,250.00

2.50

-

4

28,937

2,310.00

0.33

-2.94

18

1,079,141

14,833.02

1.43

-

4

101,000

24 1,802,291 52 4,535,144 201 29,800,482 37 479,317 11 104,875 16 1,331,359 1,134 148,043,352

5,155.33

0.35

-

2

50,700

2,800.00

0.20

-

1

11,000

2,411.47

0.53

-

0

0

1,913.74

0.50

-

0

0

2,456.00

0.40

-

0

0

539.32

0.42

-

0

0

2,856.14

0.39

2.63

53

9,143,215

4,038.55

0.94

-

1

100

6,640.00

0.83

1.22

9

1,025,583

2,960.00

0.37

2.78

32

5,289,255

13,518.09

2.56

-

14

1,175,926

1,857.48

0.24

-

2

30,000

1,832.36

0.48

-

0

0

1,733.88

0.26

-3.85

13

3,738,100

2,168.61

0.26

-3.70

13

2,157,024

5,422.63

0.42

-

3

3,220

4,483.72

0.48

-

0

0

516.46

0.20

-

0

0

8,000.00

0.50

-

0

0

4,437.33

0.32

-3.03

18

1,099,701

6,691.37

0.50

-

25

1,256,649

44

T H I S D AY ˾ Ͷ˜ ͰͮͯͶ

45

˾ FRIDAY, JUNE 8, 2018

MARKET NEWS

Berger Paints Builds New Plant, Pays 50k Dividend Goddy Egene

Berger Paints Nigeria Plc has built a fully automated paint factory as part of the strategy to boost its operations and remain competitive.

The Chairman of the company, Dr. Oladimeji Alo, stated this at the annual general meeting (AGM) in Lagos, said the plant would commence operations before the end of the year.

He added that in order to enhance speed and accuracy of data management and

improve operational efficiency for better customer service, the company had also upgraded its Enterprise Resource Package.

He said the company had implemented Microsoft Navision Enterprises Management System which replaced the old Sage Software.

According to him, premium shall always be placed on product quality improvement, research and development and capacity building for the staff in order to sustain the company’s competitive edge.

A Mutual fund (Unit Trust) is an investment vehicle managed by a SEC (Securities and Exchange Commission) registered Fund Manager.

Investors with similar objectives buy units of the Fund so that the Fund Manager can buy securities that willl generate their desired return.

An ETF (Exchange Traded Fund) is a type of fund which owns the assets (shares of stock, bonds, oil futures, gold bars, foreign currency, etc.) and divides ownership of those assets into shares. Investors can buy these ‘shares’ on the

Alo, who announced his stepping down from the company’s board, expressed gratitude to all the stakeholders for their support during his tenure as the Chairman. He said during his tenure the company witnessed the enthronement of a culture of strategic management; strengthened corporate governance, introduced a culture of regulatory compliance, blocked loopholes for fraud and related corporate malfeasance, developed new sales and marketing strategy

floor of the Nigerian Stock Exchange.

A REIT (Real Estate Investment Trust) is an investment vehicle that allows both small and large investors to part-own real estate ventures (eg.

Offices, Houses, Hospitals) in proportion to their investments. The assets are divided into shares that are traded on the Nigerian Stock Exchange.

GUIDE TO DATA: Date: All fund prices are quoted in Naira as at 6-June-2018, unless otherwise stated.

and international collaboration among others.

A non-executive director, Mr. Abi Ayida, has be named as the new chairman. Ayida assured stakeholders that the board and management would build on the solid foundation laid by Alo by harnessing human and material resources to enhance value creation for shareholders.

Ayida explained that Berger Paint’s business model would be tailored towards increased higher capacity utilization, quality products and cost

reduction by leveraging on the company’s huge investment in automation.

Responding to Alo’s retirement from the board, the National Coordinator, Independent Shareholders Association of Nigeria (ISAN), Sunny Nwosu commended him for the historic achievements of the company during his tenure.

He urged him to continue to support the company in whatever capacity.

Another shareholder, Mr. Mathew Akinlade, who also hailed Alo, explained that

the company’s performance was good in the review period, saying its large scale investment in a new automated plant would improve its earnings.

Despite the inclement operating environment, the company posted a net revenue of N3.09 billion and profit before tax of N449.5 million in 2017, an increase of 19 percent and 25 percent respectively.

The shareholders approved the dividend of N144.912 million which translated into 50 kobo per share.

Offer price: The price at which units of a trust or ETF are bought by investors.

Bid Price: The price at which Investors redeem (sell) units of a trust or ETF. Yield/Total Return: Denotes the total return an investor would have earned on his investment. Money Market Funds report Yield while others report Year- to-date Total Return.

NAV: Is value per share of the real estate assets held by a REIT on a specific date.

DAILY PRICE LIST FOR MUTUAL FUNDS, REITS and ETFS MUTUAL FUNDS / UNIT TRUSTS AFRINVEST ASSET MANAGEMENT LTD aaml@afrinvest.com Web: www.afrinvest.com; Tel: +234 1 270 1680 Fund Name Bid Price Offer Price Yield / T-Rtn Afrinvest Equity Fund 187.39 188.89 5.66% Nigeria International Debt Fund 245.04 246.58 6.25% ALTERNATIVE CAPITAL PARTNERS LTD info@acapng.com Web: www.acapng.com, Tel: +234 1 291 2406, +234 1 291 2868 Fund Name Bid Price Offer Price Yield / T-Rtn ACAP Canary Growth Fund 0.84 0.85 1.70% ACAP Income Funds 0.64 0.64 6.41% AIICO CAPITAL LTD ammf@aiicocapital.com Web: www.aiicocapital.com, Tel: +234-1-2792974 Fund Name Bid Price Offer Price Yield / T-Rtn AIICO Money Market Fund 100.00 100.00 13.20% ARM INVESTMENT MANAGERS LTD enquiries@arminvestmentcenter.com Web: www.arm.com.ng; Tel: 0700 CALLARM (0700 225 5276) Fund Name Bid Price Offer Price Yield / T-Rtn ARM Aggressive Growth Fund N/A N/A N/A ARM Discovery Fund N/A N/A N/A ARM Ethical Fund N/A N/A N/A ARM Money Market Fund N/A N/A N/A AXA MANSARD INVESTMENTS LIMITED investmentcare@axamansard.com Web: www.axamansard.com; Tel: +2341-4488482 Fund Name Bid Price Offer Price Yield / T-Rtn AXA Mansard Equity Income Fund 149.23 149.98 -1.72% AXA Mansard Money Market Fund 1.00 1.00 13.07% CHAPELHILL DENHAM MANAGEMENT LTD investmentmanagement@chapelhilldenham.com Web: www.chapelhilldenham.com, Tel: +234 461 0691 Fund Name Bid Price Offer Price Yield / T-Rtn Chapelhill Denham Money Market Fund 100.00 100.00 13.90% Paramount Equity Fund 12.03 12.34 8.50% Women's Investment Fund 104.69 107.38 4.04% CORDROS ASSET MANAGEMENT LIMITED assetmgtteam@cordros.com Web: www.cordros.com, Tel: 019036947 Fund Name Bid Price Offer Price Yield / T-Rtn Cordros Money Market Fund 100.00 100.00 13.39% CORONATION ASSEST MANAGEMENT investment@coronationam.com Web:www.coronationam.com , Tel: 012366215 Fund Name Bid Price Offer Price Yield / T-Rtn Coronation Money Market Fund 1.00 1.00 13.17% Coronation Balanced Fund 1.14 1.16 8.58% Coronation Fixed Income Fund 1.12 1.15 8.24% FBNQUEST ASSET MANAGEMENT LTD invest@fbnquest.com Web: www.fbnquest.com/asset-management; Tel: +234-81 0082 0082 Fund Name Bid Price Offer Price Yield / T-Rtn FBN Fixed Income Fund 1,160.91 1,161.61 1.12% FBN Heritage Fund 147.55 148.81 5.83% FBN Money Market Fund 100.00 100.00 13.20% FBN Nigeria Eurobond (USD) Fund - Institutional $113.20 $113.70 0.24% FBN Nigeria Eurobond (USD) Fund - Retail $113.08 $113.58 0.23% FBN Nigeria Smart Beta Equity Fund 175.36 178.05 9.10% FIRST CITY ASSET MANAGEMENT LTD fcamhelpdesk@fcmb.com Web: www.fcamltd.com; Tel: +234 1 462 2596 Fund Name Bid Price Offer Price Yield / T-Rtn Legacy Equity Fund 1.36 1.39 4.55% Legacy Debt Fund 3.05 3.05 5.71% FSDH ASSET MANAGEMENT LTD coralfunds@fsdhgroup.com Web: www.fsdhaml.com; Tel: 01-270 4884-5; 01-280 9740-1 Fund Name Bid Price Offer Price Yield / T-Rtn Coral Growth Fund N/A N/A N/A Coral Income Fund N/A N/A N/A GREENWICH ASSET MANAGEMENT LIMITED assetmanagement@gtlgroup.com Web: www.gtlgroup.com ; Tel: +234 1 4619261-2 Fund Name Bid Price Offer Price Yield / T-Rtn Greenwich Plus Money Market Fund 100.00 100.00 13.35% Nigeria Entertainment Fund 103.09 104.07 3.12% INVESTMENT ONE FUNDS MANAGEMENT LTD enquiries@investment-one.com Web: www.investment-one.com; Tel: +234 812 992 1045,+234 1 448 8888 Fund Name Bid Price Offer Price Yield / T-Rtn Abacus Money Market Fund 1.00 1.00 13.01% Vantage Balanced Fund 2.22 2.25 5.39% Vantage Guaranteed Income Fund 1.00 1.00 15.56% Kedari Investment Fund (KIF) 121.27 121.64 5.44%

LOTUS CAPITAL LTD fincon@lotuscapitallimited.com Web: www.lotuscapitallimited.com; Tel: +234 1-291 4626 / +234 1-291 4624 Fund Name Bid Price Offer Price Yield / T-Rtn Lotus Halal Investment Fund 1.18 1.20 2.89% Lotus Halal Fixed Income Fund 1,072.12 1,072.12 6.32% MERISTEM WEALTH MANAGEMENT LTD info@meristemwealth.com Web: http://www.meristemwealth.com/funds/ ; Tel: +234 1-4488260 Fund Name Bid Price Offer Price Yield / T-Rtn Meristem Equity Market Fund 13.85 13.92 5.14% Meristem Money Market Fund 10.00 10.00 11.60% PAC ASSET MANAGEMENT LTD info@pacassetmanagement.com Web: www.pacassetmanagement.com/mutualfunds; Tel: +234 1 271 8632 Fund Name Bid Price Offer Price Yield / T-Rtn PACAM Balanced Fund 1.34 1.37 12.86% PACAM Fixed Income Fund 11.72 11.79 6.20% PACAM Money Market Fund 10.00 10.00 13.89% SCM CAPITAL LIMITED info@scmcapitalng.com Web: www.scmcapitalng.com; Tel: +234 1-280 2226,+234 1- 280 2227 Fund Name Bid Price Offer Price Yield / T-Rtn SCM Capital Frontier Fund 120.14 122.13 -6.76% SFS CAPITAL NIGERIA LTD investments@sfsnigeria.com Web: www.sfsnigeria.com, Tel: +234 (01) 2801400 Fund Name Bid Price Offer Price Yield / T-Rtn SFS Fixed Income Fund 1.59 1.59 6.87% STANBIC IBTC ASSET MANAGEMENT LTD assetmanagement@stanbicibtc.com Web: www.stanbicibtcassetmanagement.com; Tel: +234 1 280 1266; 0700 MUTUALFUNDS Fund Name Bid Price Offer Price Yield / T-Rtn Stanbic IBTC Balanced Fund 2,372.27 2,391.62 5.75% Stanbic IBTC Bond Fund 185.70 185.70 5.24% Stanbic IBTC Ethical Fund 1.06 1.07 5.45% Stanbic IBTC Guaranteed Investment Fund 236.35 236.41 7.32% Stanbic IBTC Iman Fund 182.91 184.85 2.10% Stanbic IBTC Money Market Fund 100.00 100.00 12.43% Stanbic IBTC Nigerian Equity Fund 9,974.43 10,110.38 3.15% Stanbic IBTC Dollar Fund (USD) 1.09 1.09 3.25% UNITED CAPITAL ASSET MANAGEMENT LTD unitedcapitalplcgroup.com Web: www.unitedcapitalplcgroup.com; Tel: +234 803 306 2887 Fund Name Bid Price Offer Price Yield / T-Rtn United Capital Balanced Fund 1.31 1.32 -1.96% United Capital Bond Fund 1.65 1.65 5.49% United Capital Equity Fund 0.95 0.97 3.44% United Capital Money Market Fund 1.00 1.00 12.51% United Capital Eurobond Fund 106.23 106.23 3.23% United Capital Wealth for Women Fund 1.14 1.15 4.89% ZENITH ASSETS MANAGEMENT LTD info@zenith-funds.com Web: www.zenith-funds.com; Tel: +234 1-2784219 Fund Name Bid Price Offer Price Yield / T-Rtn Zenith Equity Fund 13.18 13.37 4.32% Zenith Ethical Fund 13.72 13.87 3.03% Zenith Income Fund 20.28 20.28 7.15% Zenith Money Market Fund 1.00 1.00 12.88%

REITS NAV Per Share

Yield / T-Rtn

11.41 135.86 103.70 51.22

1.01% 2.57%

Bid Price

Offer Price

Yield / T-Rtn

12.03 152.65 113.08

12.13 155.83 115.14

-0.75% 6.85% 3.48%

Fund Name FSDH UPDC Real Estate Investment Fund SFS Skye Shelter Fund Nigeria Infrastructure Debt Fund Union Homes REIT

0.77%

EXCHANGE TRADED FUNDS Fund Name Lotus Halal Equity Exchange Traded Fund SIAML Pension ETF 40 Stanbic IBTC ETF 30 Fund

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

funds@vetiva.com Bid Price

Offer Price

Yield / T-Rtn

4.95 9.01 17.99 19.53 146.73

4.99 9.09 18.09 19.73 148.73

4.41% -5.87% 2.70% -0.69% 7.13%

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

46

T H I S D AY ˾ Ͷ˜ ͰͮͯͶ

T H I S D AY ˾ FRIDAY JUNE 8, 2018

47

T H I S D AY Ëž ÍśËœ Í°ÍŽÍŻÍś

48

OPEN LETTER TO NIGERIANS ON THE

WITHDRAWAL OF MY SECURITY

I

t has become imperative for me to use this medium to bring to the attention of the general public, as well as members of the international community, that on Wednesday 6th June, 2018, the Federal Government ordered the withdrawal of my police security aides. Even though no reason has been given for this sudden action by the police authorities, I believe that it is connected with my fight to preserve the nation's democracy, by speaking out against anti-democratic tendencies and clamouring for adherence to the rule of law, under the present administration.

I also have it on good authority that a directive has been given for my immediate arrest and detention. Besides, it has also come to my knowledge that a frontline Minister in the present administration, is going round media houses and online media with threats to either stop publishing and airing my views on national issues or face sanctions from the government.

Recall that in recent weeks, I have caused four open letters to be published in major national newspapers. In one of the letters, I passionately pleaded with Mr. President to stop security agencies from harassing and intimidating Nigerians especially those perceived as enemies of the administration. I also called on relevant security and anti-graft agencies, to follow due process, in the ongoing fight against corruption in the country.

I had equally called on the leaders of the international community, like the President of the United States, Donald Trump, Secretary General of the United Nations, Antonio Guterres and the British Prime Minister, Theresa May, to prevail on the present administration to respect the sanctity of human lives, uphold the fundamental human rights of Nigerians, stop the intimidation and harassment of innocent citizens; and to make sure that the ongoing fight against corruption is conducted according to the principles of fairness, equity and justice. I had decried a situation where personalities, mainly from the opposition Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), and the new Peoples Democratic Party (nPDP) arm of our party, the All Progressives Congress, are being selectively targeted for persecution in the guise of fighting corruption.

I dare say that the withdrawal of my police security aides and those of other deserving Nigerians, has become the modus operandi of this government in silencing the opposition.

Recently, security aides of the President of the Senate, Dr. Abubakar Bukola Saraki, Deputy President of the Senate, Senator Ike Ekweremadu and the Speaker of the House of Representatives, Rt. Hon. Yakubu Dogara, were equally reduced. Those attached to Senators and House of Representatives members considered to be critical of the policies and programmes of the present administration are

equally being recalled.

I also want to state that impunity in the country is moving from bad to worse as evidenced by the withdrawal of my security and my being marked for arrest and prosecution, simply because I have not ceased to speak up against acts of injustice, intimidation and harassment of Nigerians, since the inception of this government.

This plot against me, shows that the Nigeria Police which is supposed to protect all Nigerians has become personalized and is being used to protect only those singing the praises of the present administration. This effectively shows that the last administration was more democratic and tolerant than the present one, because, despite my incessant criticism of the Jonathan's administration, he never ordered the withdrawal my police aides, as well as those of all other opposition figures now in government - who were opposed to Jonathan and his government as at that time. This unwarranted action by the Government against me, I must say, is meant to expose me to grave danger and personal harm with the aim to permanently shut me up.

Nigerians had expected leaders in this administration to learn to tolerate criticism from the opposition as a common feature in any democratic setting. Take South Africa, for example, where a member of parliament and leader of the opposition Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF) party, Julius Malema, often criticizes the President of South Africa without his security aides being withdrawn or him being framed-up for arrest and prosecution.

I want to make it categorically clear however, that no amount of intimidation, harassment and arrest will make me to close my eyes nor mouth in the face of ongoing human rights violations and actions capable of truncating the nation's democracy, being perpetrated under the present administration. I solemnly reiterate my resolve to pay the supreme sacrifice if that is what is required to ensure freedom, respect for human dignity and good governance in Nigeria. However, I want to use this opportunity to inform Nigerians that the present administration should be held responsible should any harm befall me.

Finally, I urge Nigerians to rise up in defense of democracy. I also urge the National Assembly not to relent in providing leadership to ensure the sustenance of our democracy. I equally call on Civil Society Organizations and labour unions, not to gloss over glaring threats against the nation's democracy. The time to speak up is now.

Thank you.

Comrade Timi Frank

Deputy National Publicity Secretary All Progressives Congress timifrank40@gmail.com 07033555555

49

FRIDAY, JUNE 8, 2018Ëž T H I S D AY

INTERNATIONAL

email:foreigndesk@thisdaylive.com

ĂŽĂ“ĂžĂ?ĂŽ ĂŒĂŁË? MJO Mustapha Ă—Ă‹Ă“Ă– deji.mustapha@thisdaylive.com

Philanthropy and Zakat Habib Alli/IslamiCity/Islamica

O

liver Goldsmith, the Irish poet, once said: “Where wealth accumulates, men decay.� Philanthropy is more than just a monetary gift - love of mankind shown by practical kindness and helpfulness to humanity is its dictionary meaning.

Zakat is the third pillar of Islam; it is hard to translate the word or find its closest meaning in English. In Arabic, the word is derived from the root, “z-k-a.� The verb, zakka, “to purify,� also means, “to make something grow and develop.� Zakat is commonly known as “almsgiving.� This translation is not accurate if we consider the philosophy behind that pillar. There is a difference between almsgiving (Sadaqa) and Zakat. Sadaqa is a voluntary service of any kind that is given from one person to another.

The Blessed Prophet (on whom be peace) encourages everyone to give sadaqa, also known as khairat. A smile, words of sympathy, even giving half a date can be sadaqa. Whatever the words - differentiated for juristic reasons - the spirit is to alleviate humanity’s sufferings. Such was the example of Caliph ‘Umar, who sat watching children play after he had personally brought food to their poor family.

Yet how blessed and reminiscent is the Western Social Security system that there is a sense of monetary security, however lacking, for people akin to zakat recipients: the sickly, unemployed, invalid, divorcee, the disaster struck victim, etc. Aren’t they a breakdown of the Qur’anic miskeen and fuqara - the destitute and needy? “Alms are for the poor and the needy, and those employed to ad- minister the (funds); for those whose hearts have been (recently) reconciled (to Truth) ;for those in bondage and in debt; in the cause of Allah; and for the wayfarer: (thus is it) ordained by Allah, and Allah is full of knowledge arid wisdom.� (9:60) Everyone must receive from this spring Have you thought how intertwined charity is in our life? E-mails begging for orphans of a disaster; money needed for a new councilor’s campaign; help wanted in building a new mosque or school; the fundraising walk for the homeless; chocolate sales for support of a school; remembering a poor relative back home and wanting our fitra and zakat counted in the Ramadan drive for the homeless locally.

It goes like the swirling waterway of a deep brook. It touches different soils of need and embellishes various roots of humanity as it meanders into the wide ocean of Allah’s mercy harvested in the Hereafter. “The parable of those who spend their substance in the way of Allah is that of a grain of corn: it grows seven ears and each ear Hath 100 grains. Allah gives manifold increase to whom He pleased: And Allah cares for all and He knows all things.� (2:261) Zakat is the right of the needy. By selfishly leaving it sitting in your account to grow, you would only cause self-ruin and malaise. “And in their wealth and possessions (was remembered) the right of the (needy), him who asked, and him who (for some reason) was prevented (from asking).� (51:19) Purifying our souls from greed and checking our humanity is what giving zakat every year does - calculated best by spending some of it throughout the year on appropriate projects. The tax deductibles are just a returned gift and do not rob us of our rewards. If you wish to give that away too, such uninhibited generosity will smack of true Companion-style giving. They gave until it hurt. Yet they were unhurt. “Let the man of means spend according to his means: and the man whose resources are restricted, let him spend according to what Allah has given him. Allah puts no burden on any person beyond what He has given him. After a difficulty, Allah will soon grant relief.� (65:7) Consequence for not-paying zakat The person who has some wealth and still does not take zakat from it is regarded as a great sinner in the sight of Allah and will be severely punished on the Day of Judgment. According to hadith, “The person who possesses gold and silver and does not give zakat for it, then on the Day of Judgment, slabs of fire will be made for him. These slabs will be heated in the fire of Hell and his sides, forehead and back will

be branded with them. When these slabs become cool, they will be re-heated and the entire process will be repeated.� Also, “The person who has been given wealth by Allah and despite this does not give zakat for it, then on the Day of Judgment, this wealth of his will be turned into a huge poisonous snake that will encircle his neck.

It will then tear the sides of his mouth apart and tell him: ‘I am your wealth and I am your treasures.’ “ We seek refuge in Allah. Let us not fear man and ensure that our debts and taxes are never missed, nor do we ever forget God for His small kindnesses to His creatures!

Answer to the global economic Injustice – Zakat Invested I have seen foundations making zakat disbursement work for qualified organizations that are doing needed and successful community work. We have to not only give handouts but also ensure that there is a viable system to enhance our economics.

The movements to end poverty may be overly ambitious, but their efforts are surely worth emulation.

The philosophy behind this has many dimensions. Islam considers rich people’s properties not absolutely theirs. Unless they pay the rights of the poor, zakat, they are considered transgressors. Zakat is also a yearly reminder that what we earn and what we have is not really ours. It is a gift from God. The reward is such that an entire economic system rests on it - balancing the haves and have-nots with modest cognizance of one another’s rights and natures - not like the monsters that consume everything in the name of globalization or the selfish who relegate us to food stamps in the name of anti-capitalism. “Allah has blighted usury and made almsgiving fruitful.� (2:276) Sadaqa is for everyone. During Ramadan, for example, Muslims may send Ramadan hampers to local food banks. Hunger has no religion.

Zakat was originally a tax on possessions with the proceeds going mostly to aid the poor (though the money might also be spent for other purposes, such as ransoming captives of war). The word, however, now more commonly refers to almsgiving. Are we aware of our own local needs before we trolley off huge sums to favorite faraway spots?

If zakat and its charitable obligation are unique to Islam, then we have to make it equally unique to today’s world.

Charity is best when given voluntarily Although in the past Islamic States would have organized their collection and disbursement, today, in the absence of such ideal situations (and allowing that some spurious organizations send their administrative overheads sky high, forgetting the real needy), we should revamp our efforts to see that zakat carries with it the true emblem of voluntary philanthropy. “Say: “My Lord hath commanded justice; and that ye set your whole selves (to Him) at every time and place of prayer, and call upon Him, making your devotion sincere as in His sight: such as He created you in the beginning, so shall ye return.� (7:29) It is nearly impossible for every individual, from the filthy rich to the common man, to pay zakat in the prescribed way and for it to reach the deserving people. Meanwhile, an increasing number of Muslims would be falling below the poverty line every day.

Philanthropy of the pious is never discriminatory The Caliph ‘Umar, on seeing an old Jew begging, brought him to his house. He gave him some cash and told the treasury officer that such people who could not earn their living should be granted stipends from the public treasury. Once, seeing some non-Muslim lepers on his way back from a journey, he issued orders that they should be provided maintenance from state funds.

In a letter addressed to Adi ibn Artah, ‘Umar ibn ‘Abd al- ‘Aziz wrote: “Be kind toward dhimmis (free non-Muslim subject of the Islamic State). If you find some of them old or helpless, give maintenance to them.� “So keep your duty to Allah and fear Him as much as you can; listen and obey; and spend in charity, that is better for yourselves. And whosoever is saved from his own covetousness, and then they are the successful ones. (64:16).

Trump Requested Saudi Oil Support Before Iran Nuclear Decision – Sources A day before US President Donald Trump withdrew from the Iran nuclear deal, one of his senior officials phoned Saudi Arabia to ask the world’s largest oil exporter to help keep prices stable if the decision disrupted supply, according to an exclusive report by Reuters.

Riyadh, Tehran’s arch rival, has long been a close Washington ally, but direct pressure on a member of Organisation of the Petroleum Exporting Countries (OPEC) over oil policies is rare.

Washington last pressed Saudi Arabia to increase output in 2012.

Riyadh has said that even though prices have spiked to over $80 per barrel, the highest since 2014, the market has yet to recover from a long slump. Until the phone call, Saudi officials had been saying it was too early to raise output.

Riyadh took this line partly because higher crude prices could help the stock market float of a stake in state oil giant Saudi Aramco expected to take place in 2019, Saudi industry sources had told Reuters.

So there was shock among some of Saudi Arabia’s fellow OPEC members when it issued a supportive statement hours after Washington imposed new sanctions on Tehran. It said it was ready to raise output to offset any supply shortage.

Three sources familiar with the matter said a senior U.S. administration official had called Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman before Trump’s announcement to make sure Washington could count on Riyadh, the de facto OPEC leader.

One of the sources said the call took place on May 7. The other two did not specify a date for the call.

Washington was worried that the sanctions would curb deliveries from Iran and push oil prices up, the sources said.

A White House spokesperson

CHANGE OF NAME

I formerly known and addressed as MISS OLAJIDE OMOWUNMI ELIZABETH, now wish to be called and addressed as MRS AKINBOYE OMOWUNMI ELIZABETH. All former documents remain valid. General public should please take note.

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declined to comment on whether a call took place.

A senior Saudi official did not confirm the call but said: “We were made aware of the decision on the JCPOA (Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action) before the announcement...We always have conversations with the U.S. about the stability of the oil market.�

The Saudi statement in May threatened to undermine a deal between OPEC and its allies

led by Russia to curb output by about 1.8 million barrels per day (bpd), starting from January 2017, to reduce a supply glut and boost prices. The deal is due to expire at the end of 2018.

OPEC will meet on June 22 and needs a consensus of all members to officially change its output policy. Iran’s oil minister, Bijan Zanganeh, said last week he did not agree on the potential need to increase global oil supplies.

Iraqi Parliament Votes for Manual Recount of May Election Results Iraq’s parliament voted on Wednesday to hold a manual recount of votes in the country’s May 12 parliamentary election, Reuters reported two lawmakers as saying, a day after the prime minister said there had been serious violations.

The move could hinder the delicate process of forming a new government, raising the prospect of further uncertainty in Iraq, and pits the government and parliament against the election commission, which is meant to be independent.

Parliament voted for amendments to the election law which force the

Independent High Elections Commission (IHEC) to conduct a manual recount, after it had initially declined to do so. It also suspended the commission’s leadership, which is to be replaced by nine judges.

It cancelled the results from overseas voting and those from displaced voters in some provinces, lawmakers Ali Allaq and Khaled al-Asadi told Reuters. It also ruled out the use in future elections of electronic vote counting devices, blamed for many of the violations.

An IHEC spokesman declined to comment and said he was unauthorised to speak on this matter to the media.

CHANGE OF NAME

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FRIDAY, JUNE 8, 2018Ëž T H I S D AY

50

NEWS

Ă?ĂĄĂ? Ă&#x17D;Ă&#x201C;Ă&#x17E;Ă&#x2122;Ă&#x153; Davidson Iriekpen Ă&#x2014;Ă&#x2039;Ă&#x201C;Ă&#x2013; davidson.iriekpen@thisdaylive.com, 08111813081

Abiolaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Daughter: Recognition of June 12 Will Lead to New Nigeria Obasanjo returned to power on Abiolaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s blood

Ejiofor Alike The daughter of the presumed winner of June 12, 1993 presidential election, Chief MKO Abiola, Tundun, has stated that the recognition of June 12 by President Muhammadu Buhari will return Nigeria to the time when tribe and religion did not matter.

Speaking yesterday on ARISE Television, the sister broadcast arm of THISDAY Newspapers, Tundun stated that former President Olusegun Obasanjo returned to national leadership in 1999 on Abiolaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s blood but failed to acknowledge him as a result of sheer pettiness.

She said she was highly elated and profoundly grateful to President Buhari, adding that it takes real leadership and moral courage to do what is right as Buhari did.

According to her, the recognition of June 12 is very important on many levels. â&#x20AC;&#x153;When you look at Nigeria today, can you imagine emerging on Muslim-Muslim ticket? It would never work. But in 1993, they won overwhelmingly. So, Nigeria has regressed in the important factor of national unity. We do not perceive each other as Nigerians. We are going, first, to religion, and then, tribe.

We have become so divided. So,

it is more important now than ever before to remind us of a time when all these distinctions did not matter. We are Nigerians first and foremost and that is most important,â&#x20AC;? she explained.

She stated that President Buhariâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s gesture is a lesson in being appreciated, adding that there is no incentive for public office holders or those aspiring to serve in any way to do it so dutifully when there was such miscarriage of justice like the way June 12 struggle was erased from history. â&#x20AC;&#x153;What is the incentive to put yourself on the line? What is the incentive to invest when you are not going to be appreciated; when you will be rubbished?â&#x20AC;&#x153; she asked.

She commended Buhari for reversing the trend.

Reacting to claims that President Buhari honoured her father to earn the support of the South-west in 2019 elections, the younger Abiola stressed that she would not blame anybody for holding such cynical view, adding that Nigerians have become so wary of even a good gesture because there is little to keep people hopeful.

She, however, debunked the claims, saying that many elections have been held since 1999 and they won in the South-west without honouring

Osinbajo Escapes Tragedy Following Emergency Landing by Helicopter A helicopter that was to convey Vice-President Yemi Osibanjo from the Nigeria Customs Command and Staff College, Gwagwalada in Abuja, was forced to land, a few seconds after take off yesterday.

Osinbajo was in the school for the graduation ceremony of the Senior Division Course 1/2018 participants.

The helicopter had taken the vice-president to the college for the ceremony, but while taking

off, it could not ascend beyond tree level, before it emitted thick smoke and landed on the same spot a few seconds after take off.

The Chief of Army Staff, Lt. Gen Tukur Buratai and Chief of Air Staff, Air Marshall Sadique Abubakar, had already departed the venue with their respective convoys, when the incident happened.

Osinbajo later left the college by road.

Oyo-Ita: FG to Clear Civil Servantsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; Promotion Arrears Olawale Ajimotokan Ă&#x201C;Ă&#x2DC; Ă&#x152;Ă&#x;Ă&#x201D;Ă&#x2039; Head of the Civil Service of the Federation, (HoS), Mrs Winifred Oyo-Ita, has promised that government will soon clear the backlog of outstanding liabilities, including promotion arrears it was owing civil servants.

Oyo-Ita made the pledge yesterday at the Peer Review Mechanism (PRM) for Permanent Secretary in the federal civil service in Abuja.

Speaking at the event held at the Ministry of Defence, the HoS added the federal Ministry of Finance had set in motion the process of disbursement of arrears to some civil servants.

She said in working

towards digitisation of record management, the civil service had been training staff, adding that the Ministry of Defence had received approval for structural upgrade.

Oyo- Ita, who was represented by the Permanent Secretary Ministry of Defence, Mrs. Nuratu Batagawara, said the re-introduced PRM among the permanent secretaries, would provide the much needed information, that would strengthen public policy implementation.

Some of the permanent secretaries, who spoke at the event, agreed on synergy between the nationâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s foreign and security policies.

her father.

She added that while the recognition of June 12 has served justice for the June 12 struggle, justice is yet to be served for the murder of Abiola.

She also recalled that her step mother, Mrs. Kudirat Abiola, was also brutally murdered. â&#x20AC;&#x153;There are two different factors. If an election is annulled, he did not have to be killed. So, Justice has not been served for

his murder because we donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t know â&#x20AC;&#x201C; nobody has been held accountable and found guilty for the murder of this human being whose life was lost. So, Justice has not been served at all,â&#x20AC;? she explained.

She disclosed that President Obasanjo returned to national leadership in 1999 on the blood of Abiola but failed to acknowledge him as a result of pettiness.

According to her, the situation between Abiola and Obasanjo was like Macbeth and the Ghost of Banquo. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Macbeth tried to deny and suppress but the ghosts will not leave him alone, which is why in his (Obasanjo) life time, President Buhari has done what he ought to have done,â&#x20AC;? she said.

She also stated that the late President Umaru Musa Yarâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;Adua and former President

Goodluck Jonathan did not honour Abiola because they did not want to offend Obasanjo, who helped them ascend to power.

She also applauded the efforts by the Senate to have the results of June 12, 1993 elections announced, adding that she would not like her father to be referred to as the â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;presumedâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; winner of the election any longer.Â

COURTING NIGERIAN YOUTHSâ&#x20AC;Ś

President Muhammadu Buhari (seated right) and his Chief of State, Abba Kyari (seated left), surrounded by artistes and youths when the president hosted them to break the Ramadan fast at the State House, Abujaâ&#x20AC;Ś yesterday

35 Primary Schools Shut in Nasarawa over Herdsmen Attacks Emmanuel Ukumba Ă&#x201C;Ă&#x2DC; Ă&#x2039;ʨĂ&#x2039; At least 35 primary schools have been shutdown in Obi Local Government Area of Nasarawa State due to attacks on Tiv communities in the Southern Senatorial District of the state, resulting in the destruction of the schools.

The education secretary of Obi Local Government, Ogashuwa Onuku Samuel, made this known to journalists in his office in Obi headquarters yesterday.

According to him, â&#x20AC;&#x153;Many primary schools are no longer open in the Obi council area following the displacement of the host communities. â&#x20AC;&#x153;The effort by the state government to raise education standards has fallen apart as the number of primary schools are reducing.â&#x20AC;?

He said any funding that was meant for the development of education in the Southern zone would have to be diverted to the rehabilitation of the destroyed primary schools.

â&#x20AC;&#x153;We are undergoing the Universal Basic Education Commissionâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s national personnel audit, but the host communities of this primary schools are not around hence it will affect the population. â&#x20AC;&#x153;There is need for government to take another strategy to intervene to resolve the difference between the two warring parties so that peace and development can be restored permanently to the communities affected by the crisis in other to bring education activities

back to normal,â&#x20AC;? the education secretary said.

He gave the names of the affected primary schools include those in Gada biyu, Nkusu, Mbagwa, Ngbahen, Gidan Onuku, Kuje, Kwaghshir, Usula, Akaha, Uvirkaa, Gidan Aondo, Igboughur, Kertyo, Chiawa, Imon, Apurugh, Ayero, Tsuam, Abiji, Tsamia, Ikposogye, Ushitile, Angwan Mallam,Kayerda, Nomadic, Ubele, Nyitwev, Amachenge, Igbatim, Agon and Abaagu, among others.

House Ends Legislative Calendar, Lists Achievements in Three Years James Emejo Ă&#x201C;Ă&#x2DC; Ă&#x152;Ă&#x;Ă&#x201D;Ă&#x2039; The House of Representatives yesterday adjourned plenary for two weeks to enable members mark the end of its legislative year for the third consecutive time since inauguration.

Its legislative calendar ends on June 9. The Chairman, House Committee on Media and Public Affairs, Hon. Abdulrazaq Namdas, told journalists that the House would further double

up efforts to ensure Nigerians get the dividends of democracy within the remaining one year. He said what the eighth House had achieved in the past three years surpassed previous assemblies. According to him, the House successfully passed 222 bills and referred 284 to relevant committees.  He added that over 1,473 bills were altogether introduced on the House floor; 90 bills were on constitution amendment while

519 others are awaiting second reading.

Namdas further disclosed that 112 bills are awaiting consideration, adding that 22 bills died naturally while 23 others were withdrawn by the leave of the House. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Since the inception of the National Assembly, no assembly has achieved this success,â&#x20AC;?

Namdas said. He said the House was able to work with the executive to lead the country out recession in the period under review.

The lawmaker said the symbolic â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;Not Too Young to Runâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; bill which was recently signed into law by President Muhammadu Buhari was a brainchild of the green chamber.  He said the Speaker of the House, Hon. Yakubu Dogara, also took credit for the recent passage of the North-east Development Commission (NEDC) bill by the president.

Namdas said electoral amendment bill was still work in progress in the lower chamber.

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JUNE 12, DEMOCRACY DAY REACTIONS…

JUNE 12, DEMOCRACY DAY REACTIONS…

Mixed Reactions Trail Buhari’s Declaration of June 12 Democracy Day Our Correspondents

Mixed reactions yesterday trailed the declaration of June 12 as Democracy Day in the country by President Muhammadu Buhari on Wednesday and his posthumous national honour on Chief MKO Abiola.

Abiola was presumed to have won the 1992 June 12 presidential elections under the Social Democratic Party (SDP) where he ran against Alhaji Bashir Tofa of the National Republican Convention (NRC).

The declaration of June 12 as Democracy Day and the award of the Grand Commander of the Federal Republic (GCFR) by President Buhari has elicited concerns and shock ahead of the 2019 general election.

The move by the Buhari’s government is seen as a strategy to appease Yoruba voters who were at the forefront of the June 12 struggle.

While a human rights activist, Femi Falana, stated that the conferment of the post-humous award on the late Abiola and the declaration of June 12 as Democracy Day, have validated the integrity of the free and fair election that was criminally annulled by the Ibrahim Babangida military government, former Special Adviser on Media and Publicity to former President Goodluck Jonathan, Dr. Reuben Abati, described the president’s gesture as a ploy by the present government to revive its dying popularity.

Falana said the declarations have put an end to the hypocrisy of May 29 which was proclaimed by the Olusegun Obasanjo regime as democracy day.

“By also conferring the post humous award of Grand Commander of the Order of Niger (GCON) on Chief Gani Fawehinmi, the federal government has officially endorsed his enormous contributions to the titanic battle against military dictatorship and promotion of human rights in Nigeria.

“In addition to the historic gesture, the government should proceed to adopt Abiola’s programme of welfare to poverty and respect the human rights of all Nigerians which Fawehinmi championed and defended in his life time,” he said.

Falana said in particular, the federal government should mark the first national democracy day on June 12, 2018 with the release of all citizens who are being detained illegally all over the country and immediate compliance with all valid and subsisting court orders.

But Abati stated that the president’s gesture came because long before now, his government had wanted to review its strategy of engagement with the public, as it hoped to move from blame-passing, propaganda, in-fighting and enemy-seeking approach to a more legacy-driven, result-oriented mode.

“When a government is losing popularity and goodwill, it then hopes to change the narrative. That is precisely what the Buhari government has done with the masterstroke of a special focus on June 12 and Abiola at a time when virtually everyone from the Catholic Church, the opposition, prominent political figures, the media and estranged members of the APC are carrying placards against the government.

“When you change the narrative, what you do is to divert attention from the prevailing negative discourse; you find something else for the people to talk about in the hope that this will give the government a breather, and allow it to get back on traction and restore some goodwill,” Abati said.

While stating that whoever suggested the June 12 and Abiola move to President Buhari was quite smart, he said the move should change the narrative for a few weeks, except there was another accident on the security or political scene.

S’West Voters Too Sophisticated, Can’t be Bought, Afenifere Tells Buhari Following the declaration of June 12 as Democracy Day and the award of national honours on the late Chief MKO Abiola by President Muhammadu Buhari, the Yoruba apex socio-political group, Afenifere, yesterday said the people of the South-west cannot be bought over by government’s cheap political gesture.

Speaking on the position of the Yoruba socio-political group on the declaration, spokesman of Afenifere, Yinka Odumakin, said South-west voters would not be swayed by Buhari’s antics.

He said: “We accept the declaration of June 12 as a public holiday and Democracy Day. It’s what we have asked for over the years. Even though, we are not unmindful that we are in a political season where all kinds of gimmicks will be in the air to woo various constituencies. There’s no wrong in doing something that is right, that is the right decision, that is the right decision to be taken.

“However, June 12 as Democracy Day has thrown a real challenge to the government because Democracy Day is not just about a day we remember, it should be a daily life experience.

“And from Ekiti, July 14 to February next year general election, that will be an acid test for this administration, for us to know whether that’s lip service to June 12 or genuine commitment to democracy, depending on, if those elections are able to conform with the spirit of June 12, which is free, fair, peaceful and elections with integrity. That is the challenge the government has thrown to itself.

“The South-west voters are too sophisticated to be bought

L-R: Former Governor of Abia State, Chief Orji Uzor Kalu; National Coordinator, Oodua People’s Congress (OPC) Gani Adams; and Rights Activist, Joe Odumakin, at a function to mark the anulment of June 12,1993 election....recently over by such a cheap gesture. The enlightenment here is higher, people can separate issues. Yes, Abiola has been honoured, but the people of the South-west will know that the spirit of June 12 is different, and that it’s about harmony.”

‘Put MKO’s Portrait on Nigerian Currency Note’ A Director of Information, Hope ’93, MKO Abiola Campaign Organisation, Mr. Obafemi Oredein, has asked President Muhammadu Buhari to ensure a denomination of a national currency carries the portrait of the winner of the June 12, 1993 presidential election, the late Chief MKO Abiola.

Oredein, in a statement yesterday, commended President Buhari for officially acknowledging that Chief Abiola won the June 12, 1993 presidential election and posthumously conferring him with the Grand Commander of the Federal Republic (GCFR).

The former Editor of Sunday Sketch said although it took 25 years after Abiola won the election for the national recognition to come, it was better late than never.

You Erred by Changing Democracy Day, Group Tells Buhari Voters Rights International, a non-governmental organisation (NGO), has condemned the change of date of Nigerian democracy day from May 29 to June 12 by President Muhammadu Buhari.

A lawyer, who is the President of the group, Mr. Jezie Ekejiuba, who spoke to journalists, threatened a legal action against the federal government for what he called unilateral annulment of May 29 Democracy Day. He said Buhari has no powers in any law to so do without recourse to the National Assembly.

While commending the role the late MKO Abiola played in the entrenchment of democracy in the country’s polity, Ekejiuba said the rights things must be done.

He described Buhari’s annulment of May 29 Democracy Day as illegal and undemocratic.

I’ll Declare Abiola Former President of Nigeria, Says APC Presidential Aspirant A 36-year-old presidential aspirant on the platform of All Progressive Congress (APC), Alhaji Adamu Garba, has declared that he will declare MKO Abiola as the former President of Nigeria if given the mandate to serve the country come 2019.

Garba made the disclosure yesterday when he addressed the press at the Kano NUJ Secretariat over his presidential ambition.

The aspirant said: “I will like to use this opportunity to commend President Muhammadu Buhari for recognising Abiola by declaring June 12 as the new Democracy Day. I will however go further than that by identifying him as the former President of Nigeria.

“We cannot run away from our past if we must enjoy the future. Our past and fallen heroes deserve adequate recognition I will declare Saro Wiwa also as a nationalist.”

He said Abiola would continue to be remembered in the political landscape of the country as someone who has proven

his mettle as a politician with impeccable qualities of leadership.

NCP: Fawehinmi Would’ve Rejected Buhari’s Award The National Conscience Party (NCP) yesterday hailed President Muhammadu Buhari’s declaration of June 12 as Democracy Day. The Lagos State Chairman of the party, Mr. Fatai Ibu-Owo, praised the president in an interview with journalists in Lagos, adding that the declaration was apt.

He said the June 12, 1993, presidential election was adjudged the most peaceful and fairest in Nigeria, adding that the will of the citizens has prevailed.

He added that the presumed winner of the election, the late Chief MKO Abiola, was a symbol of democracy and justice.

The chairman, however, said that NCP has nothing to celebrate in the federal government’s decision to give a posthumous award to its late founder, Chief Gani Fawehinmi.

While declaring June 12 as Democracy Day, Buhari also decided to give Fawehinmi a national award of Grand Commander of the Federal Republic (GCFR).

Ibu-Owo said Fawehinmi would have rejected the award if alive.

Also reacting, the Chairman of the Centre for Anti-Corruption of Open Leadership (CACOL), Mr. Debo Adeniran, described the declaration of June 12 as Democracy Day as a welcome development.

He said the election was the best, freest and fairest so far in the country.

Adeniran commended Buhari for the declaration which he said successive governments failed to do.

Aregbesola Applauds Buhari Osun State Governor, Rauf Aregbesola, has applauded President Muhammadu Buhari for recognising June 12 as Democracy Day in place of May 29.

In a statement made available to the media in Osogbo by his Media Adviser, Sola Fasure, Aregbesola commended the president for mustering the courage to take this historic step 25 years after the freest and fairest presidential election ever held in the history of Nigeria According to the governor, “President Buhari has secured for himself an incomparable position in history for surmounting the courage to take this historic step of recognising June 13 as Democracy Day and honouring Chief Moshood Abiola posthumously.”

Kalu Salutes President for Emulating His Footsteps Chieftain of the All Progressives Congress (APC) and the former Governor of Abia State, Chief Orji Uzor Kalu, has lauded President Muhammadu Buhari for declaring June 12 Democracy Day in honour of the late MKO Abiola who won the 1993 presidential election and posthumously awarding him the award of the Grand Commander of the Federal Republic (GCFR).

In a statement issued by his Personal Media Assistant, Mr. Kenneth Udeh; Kalu who is currently in the United States on a personal visit, described the move as historical, timely, thoughtful and symbolic.

The former governor, who became the first governor in Nigeria to declare June 12 a Public Holiday, said the new development would heal the wounds of the June 12 and further unite the country.

FRIDAY, JUNE 8, 2018Ëž T H I S D AY

52

NEWSXTRA

Threats from Military Wonâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t Deter Us, Says Amnesty International Ejiofor Alike Ă&#x2039;Ă&#x2DC;Ă&#x17D; Martins IďŹ jeh Amnesty International has alleged that the Nigerian military is increasingly resorting to threats, intimidation and smears to discredit its work documenting the human rights

violations it has committed, and vowed that it would not stay silent in the face of human rights abuses in Nigeria.

The rights group recently released a report, which documented the prevalence of sexual violence against starving women and girls detained in

Dankwambo Denies Campaigning for Buhari Segun Awofadeji Ă&#x201C;Ă&#x2DC; Ă&#x2122;Ă&#x2014;Ă&#x152;Ă?

Gombe State Governor, Alhaji Ibrahim Hassan DanKwambo, has dissociated himself from a video that has now gone viral where he was said to be campaigning for President Muhammadu Buhari ahead of the 2019 presidential election.

While reacting to the said video which is now in circulation in the social media, Dankwambo, through his Special Assistant on Media, Junaidu Usman Abubakar, in a statement made available to THISDAY yesterday declared that there was no reason for him as a leader of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) to campaign for a presidential candidate of another political party.

The governor pointed out that the video is the â&#x20AC;&#x153;handiwork of political detractors within and outside the state who are bent on destroying the political career built over the years which is visible in the performance of the PDP-led administration in the state.â&#x20AC;? While confirming the authenticity of the video, the governor, through his media aide, explained that â&#x20AC;&#x153;no, this

was his 2015 swearing-in speech at the stadium when President Buhari was elected as the new in-coming president. What is happening is the sponsorship of Abuja-based nPDP members who want to discredit the personality of DanKwambo.â&#x20AC;? He added: â&#x20AC;&#x153;The detractors decided to use the video now because of the growing political influence of Dankwambo.

The developmental projects executed by the administration are testimonies to his growing political influence.â&#x20AC;?

The governor however reiterated his determination to remain in the PDP and work for its success in the general elections, expressing confidence that the party is now reformed and ready to face the electorate in the 2019 general election.

On the 2019 presidential race, the governor explained that consultations are ongoing and at the appropriate time, a definite pronouncement will be made publicly.

He then called on the people of the state to remain committed to the ideals of the PDP which he said has taken the state to greater heights, assuring them that the party will not let them down in terms of development.

NRC Assesses Abuja Light Rail Project for Final CertiďŹ cation Olawale Ajimotokan Ă&#x201C;Ă&#x2DC; Ă&#x152;Ă&#x;Ă&#x201D;Ă&#x2039;

Station. Osinowo said the visit was a The Nigerian Railway follow up to the previous one Corporation (NRC) has to determine the readiness of deployed technical team to the Abuja Rail System, which evaluate the readiness of Abuja had been certified by the Light Rail Project for the take Ministry of Transportation off of commercial mass transit General Inspection of Rail for operation. operations on safety, engineering, The team of seven technical repairs,management and other assessors was led by Akin issues in line with the Nigerian Osinowo. It was briefed at Railway Act of 1955 and in the FCTA Transportation accordance with global best Secretariat by Chief Resident practices.

Engineer of the project on the The assessors also assured level of project completion. the FCTA that NRC would The NRC officials later accord the Abuja Light Rail boarded the newly acquired System necessary technical and train coaches for an inspection regulatory support at every level tour of the stations and the of its operation.

Rolling Stock Yard.

Osinowo said NRC would The rail line under Lot A issue the Certificate of Operation and Lot 3, which is about 45 to FCTA as observations made kilometres long, has 12 stations, were not serious enough 21 operational offices, 13 bridges, to cause any delay in the 50 culverts and nine pedestrian commencement of operations. over passes.

Responding on behalf of the It is the first railway in the Transportation Secretariat, the country without a pedestrian Director of BRT and Transport crossing.

Regulation, Wilson Unogwu, It would facilitate movement assured the NRC team that of people in 12 satellite towns the Federal Capital Territory and also ease passengers Administration (FCTA) would movement between the new constantly interact with the NRC international terminal at Nnamdi to ensure a seamless take off Azikwe International Airport, of the Light Rail Mass Transit Abuja, and Central Terminal operation.

satellite camps under the control of Nigerian soldiers and militia.

According to a statement issued yesterday by the Media Manager, Amnesty International Nigeria, Isa Sanusi, the Nigerian military responded by organising smear campaigns and issuing threats to â&#x20AC;&#x153;take action against Amnesty International.â&#x20AC;?

Rather than taking action to address the issues raised in the report, like investigating countless allegations of rape and other war crimes, the Director of Amnesty International Nigeria, Osai Ojigho, alleged that the Nigerian military has rather fallen back on its usual hostile tactics of denials and threats. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Amnesty International always shares the findings of its investigations with the Nigerian military before publication. We ask detailed questions to ensure the military can provide its side

of the story, but in all cases, the military has either completely ignored these attempts to engage or referred us to other arms of government, in a clear attempt to evade our questions,â&#x20AC;? Ojigho said.

Amnesty International described the decision by the Senate to probe allegations raised in â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;They Betrayed Usâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; as a welcome development, and a sign of hope for victims seeking justice. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Despite the militaryâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s best efforts, we will not stay silent.

In the face of efforts to evade responsibility or to smear our organisation, we will continue to raise our voices whenever and wherever we see injustice, sexual abuse, discrimination against women or any other violations of human rights in Nigeria,â&#x20AC;? Ojigho said.

Amnesty International stated

that according to standard practice, all its reports on human rights violations in Nigeria call for investigations into the allegations they contain, but the Nigerian military has repeatedly responded instead with smear campaigns, intimidation, and threats.

For example, March on 2017, sponsored protesters carrying a coffin invaded Amnesty Internationalâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s office in Abuja chanting slogans against the organisation like â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;Amnesty International supports Boko Haram,â&#x20AC;&#x2122; and â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;You are demonic, leave Nigeria now.â&#x20AC;&#x2122; The protesters, some of whom were internally displaced persons from camps outside Abuja, said they were paid N1,400 every day by agents of the sponsors of the protest, who they met at Unity Fountain, Abuja.

On May 23, 2018, a day before the launch of â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;They Betrayed Usâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;, pre-emptive media smear campaigns and organised protests were carried out with the apparent aim of intimidating and harassing Amnesty International. Â â&#x20AC;&#x153;These diversionary tactics are a shameless attempt to avoid investigating the accounts of human rights violations which have been presented by the agency. The statements by the Nigerian military clearly show that they have not read our reports. â&#x20AC;&#x153;For example, while our recent report was based on remote satellite camps in places like Bama and Banki, the military took journalists to the wrong camps in Maiduguri in their attempts to prove us wrong,â&#x20AC;? Ojigho added.Â

CELEBRATING 5TH YEAR OF GROWTH

L-R: Executive Secretary, Nigeria lnvestment Promotion Commission (NIPC), Mrs. Yewande Sadiku; MD, Sigma Pensions Limited, Dave Uduanu; CEO/Nigeria and Regional Head West Africa, Rand Merchant Bank, Mr. Michael Larbie; Director, Rand Merchant Bank, Mrs. Remi Odunlami; and Global CEO, Rand Merchant Bank, Mr. James Formby, during the bankâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s fifth years anniversary of collaboration and growth in Nigeria in Lagos....yesterday

Crude Oil Price Surges on Venezuela Export Cuts, OPEC Production Levels Ejiofor Alike ĂĄĂ&#x201C;Ă&#x17E;Ă&#x2019; Ă&#x2039;Ă&#x2018;Ă?Ă&#x2DC;Ă?ĂŁ Ă&#x153;Ă?Ă&#x161;Ă&#x2122;Ă&#x153;Ă&#x17E;Ă?

Oil prices surged by more than $1 per barrel yesterday, lifted by concern about a steep drop in exports from Venezuela and concerns the Organisation of Petroleum Exporting Countries (OPEC) may not raise production at its meeting this month.

Global benchmark, Brent crude futures were up $1.48 at $76.84 a barrel, while United States West Texas Intermediate (WTI) crude rose $1.16 to $65.88 per barrel.

Crude prices got an early lift on concerns about exports from Venezuela.

Reuters reported that gains grew when Algeriaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s oil minister indicated OPEC would focus on balancing the market rather than on rolling back production caps.

OPEC member, Venezuela, threatened with US sanctions in the midst of an economic crisis, is nearly a month behind

delivering crude to customers from its main export terminals, according to shipping data.

Angola has also seen output decline rapidly from its aging fields.

In Venezuela, chronic delays and production declines could soon breach state-run PDVSAâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s supply contracts.

Tankers waiting to load more than 24 million barrels of crude, almost as much as PDVSA shipped in April, are sitting off the main oil port, according to shipping data.

OPEC and other producers including Russia have cut output since 2017 to reduce a global crude glut.

The group meets in Vienna on June 22 to discuss its supply policy.

Algerian Energy Minister Mustapha Guitouni said on state radio: â&#x20AC;&#x153;What matters to us is that there is a balance between supply and demand to ensure the stability of the oil markets.â&#x20AC;?

OPEC-member Iraq said on Wednesday a production increase was not on the table.

This followed an unofficial request from the United States asking OPECâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s effective leader Saudi Arabia to boost output.

Crude output is surging

toward 11 million bpd in the United States, which is closing in on Russiaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s position as the worldâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s largest producer.

Surging US production has widened the discount of WTI futures to Brent to more than $11 per barrel.

Fashola Promises to Attend to All Federal Roads in Delta Sylvester Idowu Ă&#x201C;Ă&#x2DC; Ă&#x2039;Ă&#x153;Ă&#x153;Ă&#x201C; The Minister of Works, Power and Housing, Babatunde Raji Fashola has promised that all federal roads in Delta State will be completed soon.

The minister therefore commended the role played

by Professor Pat Utomi, whom he said had been putting pressure on his ministry for the construction and rehabilitation of several roads in the state.

Fashola gave the assurance at

his Mabushi office on yesterday when Utomi, a political economist and APC leader, paid him a courtesy call to thank him for the recent award of the contract for the rehabilitation of the Illah-Asaba road.

According to a statement

by Utomi, the minister was said to have recalled his (Utomi)â&#x20AC;&#x2122;s visit to him several months ago on the matter during which he promised an accelerated work on the Illah-Asaba road.

FRIDAY, JUNE 8, 2018Ëž T H I S D AY

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NEWSXTRA

BPE Generates N550bn from Privatisation, Attracts $7.8bn FDI To privatise Afam power plant, reconcession Lagos Trade Fair complex, commercialises six river basins, others Ndubuisi Francis Ă&#x2039;Ă&#x2DC;Ă&#x17D;Ëż Chineme Okafor Ă&#x201C;Ă&#x2DC; Ă&#x152;Ă&#x;Ă&#x201D;Ă&#x2039; The Bureau of Public Enterprises (BPE) generated a total of N550 billion through the privatisation of public enterprises in the past 30 years.

A total of 142 companies and agencies of government cutting across various sectors of the economy were either privatised, commercialised or concessioned during the period.

The privatisation agency also attracted $7.8 billion into the country in foreign direct investment (FDI) from 53 enterprises in the past 18 years.

Briefing journalists in Abuja yesterday on the privatisation journey from the Technical Committee on Privatisation and Commercialisation (TCPC) in 1988  through to emergence of the BPE 18 years ago,  the Director-General, Mr. Alex Okoh, said the N550 billion represented only accruals from privatised enterprises, adding that some of the 142 companies and agencies which were either commercialised or concessioned did not fetch any income. â&#x20AC;&#x153;From 1999 till date, the BPE has successfully reformed (by way of privatisation, commercialisation and in some cases concessioned) a total of 142 public enterprise, he said, stressing that strategies adopted included core investor sale, guided liquidation, sale to existing shareholders and public offer.

Others are liquidation, private

placement, concession, debt/ equity swap, and sales of assets.

He said between 30 and 36 per cent of sold enterprises were not doing well, adding that this was established through an in-built post-privatisation monitoring mechanism of the agency.

Okoh stressed that the poor performance of such enterprise post-sale arose from macroeconomic issues as well as fiscal issues, among others, adding that BPE was trying to address such encumbrances.

Okoh said the activities of BPE were designed to primarily diversify the economy and strengthen the private sector as the countryâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s engine of growth and economic driver.

He added that it also assists in restructuring the public sector in a manner that would effect a new synergy between a leaner and more efficient government and a revitalised, efficient and service-oriented private sector.

According to him, through its privatisation and commercialisation programmes, the BPE attained some broad milestones in the past 18 years, including expanding private sector participation in the Nigerian economy and attracting quality foreign investors and capital.

The BPE chief executive said a total of $7.8 billion was attracted into the Nigerian economy by way of FDI through 53 sold enterprise in the past 18 years.

He noted that the BPE had also been able to achieve a

Group Endorses Ambode for Second Term Ugo Aliogo and Esther Ehoche The Chairman of the Lagos State chapter of the National Association of Education Secretaries in Nigeria (NAESN), Asiwaju Majiyagbe, has called on Lagosians to work towards the re-election of Governor, Akinwunmi Ambode for a second term in office, stating that the administration has delivered on its electoral promises to the state.

Majiyagbe disclosed this yesterday in Lagos at the 2018 Interdenominational Prayer Service organised to raise support for the governor for his second term, tagged: â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;Ambode Mandate Support Group.â&#x20AC;&#x2122; He stated that the event is a fulfillment of his post-election speech where NAESN agreed that the endorsement and re-election of Ambode must be top on their priority, while commending members who supported the initiative. â&#x20AC;&#x153;I am happy that all our members supported this initiative strongly with dedication and adequate funding. This can be confirmed by what we saw today.â&#x20AC;?

NAESN chair explained that

the governor has performed very well and delivered on his promises to Lagosians, adding that his track record in building infrastructural projects in the state has made opposing parties to become jittery with persistent phobic tendencies. Â Majiyagbe lauded Ambode for prompt payment of salaries to workers, noting that he has also built infrastructural facilities in schools which he noted served as a motivation, â&#x20AC;&#x153;the caring attitude and reward of excellence in service encourage us to work harder and ensure quality service delivery.â&#x20AC;?

He further noted that the gathering of the organisation to receive support for the governor is symbolic, stating that it exemplifies their commitment and loyalty to help the governor renew his mandate.

According to him, â&#x20AC;&#x153;I am therefore appealing to the Ambode Mandate Support to accommodate us fully to assist them in managing the special groups that include parents, SBMC, food vendors because some of them belong to different political parties while the majority of them were not politicians. This will go a long way in achieving Ambo 2019 with ease.â&#x20AC;?

more efficient allocation of government resources by redirecting funding of public enterprises by government to other key sectors of the economy that are socially imperative.

Okoh disclosed that the Afam Power Plant with a 976 installed capacity and the Yola Distribution Company are slated for privatisation and reprivatisation respectively, Â this year.

It is also to concession Terminal â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;Bâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; of the Warri Old Port, partially commercialise select parks in the country as well as the commercialisation of six River Basin development Authorities.

The Lagos International Trade fair Complex, he disclosed, would also be reconcessioned, adding that the BPE is already in the process of appointing a new concessionaire.

He said there was no reason why such a massive asset should be allowed to remain in a dilapidated state.

Okoh stated that the BPE was expected to contribute N400 billion from the privatisation proceeds to the 2018 Budget.

He argued that there was no sense in retaining dormant public assets and continue to give them subventions while the government at the same time continues to borrow money

to finance the budget at very high cost.

The BPE boss regretted that the major obstacles to the sale of such assets were the ministries, departments and agencies (MDAs) as well as organised labour.

He argued that the MDAsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; reluctance and sentimental attachment to such assets were not doing the country any good.

But he also noted that the BPE was engaging various stakeholders, stressing that organised labour is a major stakeholder in privatisation matters.

Okoh also disclosed that the BPE would be actively involved in the power sector recovery

initiative, adding that it was instrumental to the reforms that took place in the sector.

He noted that about N320 billion as severance package to workers in  affected by the power sector reforms.

Okoh, who also reacted to certain developments involving the Infrastructure Concession Regulatory Commission (ICRC), admonished the agency to restrict itself to its statutory role of a regulator, adding that it cannot be an umpire and a player at the same time.

According to him, playing ambivalent roles could send wrong and confusing signals to investors.Â

SENSITISATION EVENT

L-R: COO, Visionscape Sanitation Solution, Thomas Forgacs; Iyaloja General, Lagos Island East, Alhaja Latifat Ojikutu; Vice General Iyaloja, Lagos Island West, Alhaja Mojisola Dange; and COO, Visioncape Sanitation Solution, Caren Van-Rooyen, at a sensitisation event to mark World Environment Day in Lagos....Wednesday

Benue Blames Defence Minister CARE Backs Bill to Criminalise Estimated Billing for Renewed Killings in State George Okoh Ă&#x201C;Ă&#x2DC; Ă&#x2039;Ă&#x2022;Ă&#x;Ă&#x153;Ă&#x17D;Ă&#x201C; Following spate of renewed killings of residents of Benue State in the last three days by suspected herdsmen, the state government yesterday put the blame on the Minister of Defence, Brig-Gen. Mansur Dan Ali (rtd), for emboldening the herdsmen with his recent comments.

While addressing journalists over the killing of 13 persons last Wednesday in Guma and Logo Local Government Areas, the state Commissioner for Information, Mr. Lawrence Onoja Jr, said from the timing of the recent killings, the militia herdsmen must have been encouraged by the unfortunate comments of the defence minister who had two days ago suggested the suspension of the stateâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s anti-open grazing law.

Herdsmen militia had invaded Tse Zongu of Mbagwen Wednesday night

Ejiofor Alike

where 13 people were killed.

The commissioner said the attack came barely 24 hours after the ministerâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s public statement. â&#x20AC;&#x153;The implementation of such provocative statement is that these militia herdsmen could have been inspired in their attacks on Benue community.â&#x20AC;?

The commissioner said the state governor, Samuel Ortom, had already directed security agencies to quickly mobilise to the affected communities.

Onoja advised other states to look at the peculiarity of their environment and make the law for  the peace of their states.

The governor he said has directed the security agencies to quickly mobilise to the affected communities while he has ordered the immediate evacuation of the injured to medical facilities for prompt treatment.  He congratulated Abia State for enacting the same law.

group argued that the position of Fashola and Dafe has shown The Coalition for Affordable and clearly that the federal government Regular Electricity (CARE) has is in an unholy alliance with the thrown its weight behind the Distribution Companies (Discos) to proposed bill by the House of continue the robbery of electricity Representatives to criminalise consumers through fraudulent estimated electricity and vowed to estimated billing. collaborate with other pro-people According to CARE, the organisations to mobilise Nigerian capitalist state that claims to electricity consumers to resist any be the regulator is obviously illegal disconnection of unmetered partisan and biased against consumers and hike in tariffs.   the working masses because In a statement signed by the of their class interest towards CAREâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Coordinator, Chinedu profiteering.     Bosah and Secretary, Monsuru â&#x20AC;&#x153;The federal government Shoyombo, the group said it through Fashola and NERC was not surprising when the as well as ANED brazenly Minister of Power, Works and threatened Nigerians in their Housing, Mr. Babatunde Fashola submissions. Fashola claimed and a Commissioner in the that criminalising the estimated Nigerian Electricity Regulatory billing would destroy the Commission (NERC), Mr. Dafe entire power sector; Akpeneye Akpeneye, opposed the proposed claimed that 50 per cent of bill at the public hearing at the electricity consumers would National Assembly on June 5, 2018. be disconnected; ANED said While the group noted that that the Distribution Companies the opposition against the bill (DISCOs) would disconnect by the Association of Nigerian consumers who had no meters Electricity Distributor (ANED) in a bid to escape punishment was for selfish reasons, the over estimated billing.â&#x20AC;?

Ë&#x153; Î&#x20AC;Ë&#x153; ͺ͸͚Î&#x20AC; Ëž T H I S D AY

54

FRIDAYSPORTS

Group Sports Editor Duro Ikhazuagbe Email duro.ikhazuagbe@thisdaylive.com 0811 181 3083 SMS ONLY

Eagles Drop in Last FIFA Ranking before Kick off of Russia 2018 Russia enters own tournament as lowest-ranked team

Duro Ikhazuagbe Following defeats in three of the five warm up matches ahead of the World Cup, Super Eagles dropped one place from 47th spot to 48th position in the June FIFA ranking released yesterday in Zurich.

Eagles also slipped one spot in the African ranking from sixth place to seventh as they are now behind Tunisia, Senegal, Congo DR, Morocco, Egypt and Ghana.

The trio of Cameroon, Burkina Faso and Mali completed the list of Africaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Top 10 teams.

Football aficionados were not surprised by the one spot drop in Eagles ranking as the three-time African champions have failed to make the most of the friendly games they played during the period under review.

Apart from the win against Poland and the 1-1 score draw with DR Congo, Super Eagles

lost the other warm up games to Serbia, England and Czech Republic ahead of the Mundial kicking off in a week from today.

The breakdown on the FIFA website shows that Nigeria lost 17 points from last monthâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s 635.

Eagles are now on 618.

Interestingly, none of Nigeriaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s group opponents at the World Cup in Russia rose in the ranking.

Croatia, Eagles first Group D opponents on June 16 in Kaliningrad dropped two places from 18th to 20th while Nigeriaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s second game opponents, Iceland, stagnated on the 22nd spot from the May ranking.

Nigeriaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s perennial nemesis, Argentina remained at the fifth spot of global ranking as there was no movement in the Top 10.

Reigning World Cup champions Germany topped the list with five-time winners Brazil second, Belgium is third while

Portugal is fourth. Switzerland, France, Poland, Chile and Spain completed the top 10 of the global ranking.

Interestingly, Hosts Russia will enter their own World Cup as the lowest-ranked side of all the 32 teams competing in the tournament.

Russia had been ahead of Saudi Arabia when FIFAâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s previous standings were released in May, but slipped four places to 70th in the new order. Â

AFRICAâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;S TOP 10

Tunisia Senegal Congo DR Morocco Egypt Ghana Nigeria Cameroon Burkina Faso Mali

Lagos State Governor, Mr. Akinwunmi Ambode (right), presents a souvenir to Manager, World Para Powerlifting Competition, Mr. Sam Munkley (left) while Minister of Youth and Sports, Mr. Solomon Dalung (middle) watches with admiration during a courtesy visit by Dalung and the delegation from the International Paralympics Committee at Lagos House, Alausa, Ikeja

NFF, CAF Pay Tribute to Keshi on Second Anniversary of His Passage Buhari Appoints Ambode into FGâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s The Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) yesterday paid tribute to the late Head Coach of the Super Eagles, Stephen Okechukwu Keshi, who passed away two years ago.

Keshi died of cardiac arrest on June 7, 2016 in Benin City aged 54 years. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Today we remember Nigeria and Africa football legend, late Coach Stephen Okechukwu Keshi who passed on, on this day in 2016. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Thank you for the memories â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;The Big Boss.â&#x20AC;&#x2122; We can never forget you,â&#x20AC;&#x2122;â&#x20AC;&#x2122; a tweet on the NFFâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s official Twitter handle announced yesterday.

Similarly, the Confederation of African Football (CAF) also marked the day with a tweet. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Today marks 2 years on Nigerian legend, Stephan Keshiâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s passing. Gone but never forgotten #RIP,â&#x20AC;? the African governing body tweeted.

Born on Jan. 23, 1962, the former Super Eagles defender represented Nigeria at four Africa Cup of Nations competitions (1984, 1988, 1992

Delegation to World Cup Lagos Gov allays fear over Eagles losing streak

Keshi and 1994) and played one game at the 1994 FIFA World Cup in the U.S.A (USA â&#x20AC;&#x2122;94) Keshi led Togo as coach to qualify for the 2006 FIFA World Cup in Germany and also led Nigeria to win the 2013 Africa Cup of Nations in South Africa.

He also won the Africa Cup of Nations title as a player in 1994.

The former Lokeren and Anderlecht star, also guided

Nigeria to the 2014 FIFA World Cup in Brazil equaling the countryâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s best ever feat of a second round berth with the team.

He played his first game for Nigeria against Upper Volta (now Burkina Faso) in October, 1980 in a friendly game and later made his first competitive match against Tanzania in a World Cup qualifier in December, 1980.

President Muhammadu Buhari has appointed Lagos State Governor, MrAkinwunmi Ambode as a member of the Federal Governmentâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s delegation to the 2018 FIFA World Cup starting in Russia from June 14.

Minister of Youth and Sports, Mr Solomon Dalung who revealed this when he led a delegation from the International Paralympics Committee on a courtesy visit to Ambode at Lagos House in Alausa, Ikeja yesterday, said the appointment was in recognition of the massive investment and commitment to sports development which the governor had exhibited in the last three years.

While handing over the letter of appointment to the governor, Dalung said Lagos had been home to sports, and that it was gratifying that Ambode had repositioned sports as a catalyst for development and

growth in the state. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Your Excellency, I want to inform you that the President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria has approved you as one of the members of the Federal Government delegation that would be leading and representing him and other Nigerians in Russia at the World Cup. â&#x20AC;&#x153;The Presidentâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s approval of you as a member of that delegation is borne out of the conviction that you have been one of the governors that have invested heavily in sports and also supported sports.

He said the high-powered delegation from the International Paralympics Committee led by Mr Sam Munkley was at Lagos House as part of the bid by Nigeria to host the International Paralympics Championship in Lagos in 2019, saying apart from conducting training for Nigerian

Paralympics association and stakeholders, the delegation would also inspect the facilities to be used when the country gets the hosting right for the tournament.

Responding, Governor Ambode thanked President Buhari for appointing him into FGâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s delegation to the World Cup, saying that with the morale and physical support for the Super Eagles, Nigerians would be made proud at the end of the day.

He specifically allayed fears in some quarters over the losing streak suffered by the team in some of the friendly matches played in preparation for the tournament, insisting that the succession of defeats to Atletico Madrid, England and Czech Republic were part of the strategy to understand the areas to concentrate on in having a well-rounded team.Â

T H E J O B O N F R Ă&#x2C6; R E I N T E RV I E W

If Eagles Play as a Team, Will Go Far in Russia Dutchman, Jo Bonfrère who led Nigeriaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Under-23 Dream Team to win the menâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s football event gold medal of the 1996 Olympic Games in Atlanta, USA, was live on Arise Televisionâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Global Sports yesterday. DURO IKHAZUAGBE monitored the interview In the Beginning Before the Olympic Games, I have been with Nigeria in the 1990 for the Africa Cup of Nations in Algiers. I was also here for the AFCON in Senegal in 1992. After that I was with the team for the 1994 AFCON in Tunisia which we won. We then qualified and went to the World Cup in USA which was Nigeriaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s first time. It was after that I led the Under-23 Dream Team to the Olympic Games in Atlanta where we won the gold. The football authorities asked me back again where I led the team to the Nations Cup in year 2000.

Life Outside Coaching Super Eagles When I left Nigeria I went to Qatar, I went to many other countries. I joined a club in the Emirate as well as in Egypt.

I was in China and the last one was in Oman. I went back to China to join another club. In the last 20 years that I left Nigeria, I have been very busy.

Winning the Olympic Gold in Atlanta in 1996 Winning the Olympic gold gave me special feeling, most especially for Nigeria.

It was a very good experience. Winning in the final for me was beating all the South

American teams. It means we have beaten Mexico, Brazil and Argentina- all football power-houses in that region. These were not easy teams. They were very difficult.

We played very good football in that competition to deserve winning the gold.

The opportunities that followed winning the gold medal at the Olympic Games Yes, winning the Olympic gold gave me opportunities. Qatar desperately wanted me, Before then, I didnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t know where Qatar was in the Arab world. They invited me and went there to coach. I led them to playing in the final of the Arab league Cup final against Kuwait.

Unforgettable Memories of Atlanta â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;96 We, I mean the coaching crew and my players were one team. We had a bond. The players played for each other, they had power and were never afraid.

After training for months going to the Olympic, I told them that they were very good and capable of taking on any team in the world and get result. My players loved our training and were very proud of our work rate and all that we were doing before the Olympic. We knew we had the mentality to enable us win any game.

Super Eagles versus Czech Republic in Vienna, Austria on Wednesday I was in the traffic in Lagos so missed then first 20 minutes of the game. From what I have seen of the team against England and Czech Republic again on Wednesday, Eagles are not playing as a team. Too much individuality play in the team. The players have speed and tactically sound but if you are not playing as a unit, getting the desired result will be difficult.

And secondly, they appear as if they are not playing to instruction or tactics from the handlers of the team. It is like having a problem in your house and you have the tools to solving the problem but if you donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t know the right tool to use, all the bunch of tools you have may appear useless. That is the problem I see with the current Super Eagles.

Chances of Super Eagles at the World Cup Nigeria still has up to nine days till when the Super Eagles will play their first game against Croatia. Now is the time to let the players know the opposition they are going to face and the quality in each of the players of the Croatian team. From the losses in the friendlies,

the coaches should be able to tell each player what the problem was in the areas they covered and amendments made. Let me tell, from what I have seen of Nigerian players, they are all faster than nearly all the players from Europe coming to this World Cup. They have more technic than most other players.

However, I want to say that I really donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t know most of the current players so it will be difficult for me to hazard a guess. If they pay as a team, they can go far beyond the second Round that has become Nigeriaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s benchmark.

In Europe, when a player has the ball, he has five players opening up for him to choose where to send the ball but in the present Nigerian situation from the friendlies that I have seen, when a Super Eagles player has the ball, he wants to do things of five people all alone and there is no support around him and things donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t work like that.

Which countries are you looking at as favourites?

Normally during the World Cup, attention is on Germany, Italy, France and may be England but the Italians are not in Russia. I have seen some games from

Brazil, they are very good. I tip Brazil to get to the last four. I saw Germany against Austria but I didnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t see the usual German flair. I didnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t see the usual things associated with Germany. The French have renewed their game after the Nicolas Anelka era and crisis. In 2014, Brazil as host thought the cup was their to take but were taught bitter lesson. Now I see great games coming from these rejuvenated teams. Brazil has the technique, Germany the mentality and England the fighting spirit. Unfortunately the Dutch team (Holland) that have the technique too are not at this World Cup. Getting the house promised him by the FG 24 years after It was a surprise to me when I got a call from Nigeria that I should come and get the house that I was promised in 1994 after winning the AFCON 1994 in Tunisia. It was promise fulfilled by the Federal Government of Nigeria and I am very grateful for the gesture. What I am going to do with the house? I have not decided yet. Now I know I have a house in Nigeria and whenever I come here, I have a house I can call my own and stay. No, I am not thinking about selling it now, I have not decided.

55

T H I S D AY ˾ FRIDAY JUNE 8, 2018

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MISSILE

Niger Delta Youths to FG ”Today, things have worsened in the region and as we address you now, the Igbomorotu corridor in Southern Ijaw as well as the Akasa flank on the Atlantic fringe of Brass have continued to be a major hub of illicit operation and is now virtually taken over by crude oil criminals.”

– Protesting Niger Delta youths calling for the removal of the Commander of Joint Task Force for allegedly compromising the security of the region.

AKINOSUNTOKUN DIALOGUE WITH NIGERIA

akin.osuntokun@thisdaylive.com

On June 12 ‘A

befitting commemoration of June 12 must be stripped of the political opportunism of the moment. It does not need to be reduced to an instrument of political sparring with either Mr. Obasanjo who instituted May 29th to mark the end of military rule or Mr Babangida who conducted but also annulled the June 12 election. A situation in which slices of national history are hawked as political wares on the eve of elections must be avoided. It is therefore ultimately adolescent to recognize June 12 solely in the hope that voters from the south west will be swayed by that simple act. June 12 is a national memorial, a day that Nigerians rose above their differences to make an important point in favour of democracy and unity. Any leader who seeks to confine that symbolism to a geo-ethnic prison house misses the boat. At worst, it may in fact indicate the nativist bent of such a leader and may become a political liability. In all, let us salute the president and raise the concerns but seriously discourage him from further divisive political gimmicks and pranks’

BEYOND JUNE 12 Now there is a lot of confusion in the land fostered largely by the tactic of muddying the waters-that we are all guilty and responsible for the development morass in which Nigeria is presently enmeshed; that the followership deserves the kind of leadership it gets; that since Obasanjo attempted tenure elongation and failed to usher in a regime of electric power stability, he has no right to criticize Buhari; that since Danjuma has access to Buhari, he shouldn’t have publicly made the allegation that the Nigerian military is evidently becoming partisan….

Beyond all this self-imposed confusion is the clarity that at the heart of our interminable crisis of nationhood and development is the divergence and deviation from the veritable universal ethic of development-the disappearance of the development ethic-the lack of positive correlation between hard work and reward. It is a constant in the history of mankind that the development of any society is founded on the extent to which the two variables of hard work and reward are wedded in a direct proportional relationship. And since this is a rational concept, it follows that the ethic abides as the organizing principle of rationally designed societies. In the scriptures, the concept is affirmed and exhorted in the pronouncement that a man who does not work should not eat.

We can validly assume that the founding fathers of Nigeria, the British and the Nigerian nationalist leaders, were guided by this rationality when they were conceiving the groundnorm best suited to the governance and development of Nigeria in all its ramifications.

Let us quickly dismiss a foundational misgiving. It is true that at one point in

President Muhammadu Buhari the colonial history of Nigeria, the colonial administrators propounded and adopted the policy of employing the economic surplus of the South to support the North. And that thenceforth the impression was created that the South suffered the North as a burden and imposition.

The subsequent behavior of the North however did not bear out this dependent mentality. It certainly was not consistent with the political preference the region expressed in the last phase of British colonialism. It was the North that wanted to keep as much political distance from the South as possible-as reflected in the region’s proposal of loose confederation in 1953. It is on record that Sir Ahmadu Bello loudly protested ‘the mistake of 1914’ and rebuffed the nationalistic exuberance of Dr Nnamidi Azikiwe with the admonition that we understand and not sweep the differences of regional identities under the carpet. I have recalled this background to make the point that going into independence, the Northern region, like its Southern counterparts, was no less confident in its ability, to attain to development on the standard parameters of the development ethic.

Guided by the development ethic and how best to make Nigeria amenable to this ethic, the manual for the sustenance and political development of Nigeria was encapsulated in the independence constitution of 1960. The prospects for such development were tied to the application and applicability of the constitution-and to the extent of the deviation from this manual, the prospects would fail to materialize. If it is imaginable for any of the makers of the independence constitution to go to sleep in October 1960 and wake up today, he would not at all be surprised at the prevalent and pervasive development failure of Nigeria. He is liable to quip, how the hell do you hope to develop with such a comprehensive negation of the rhyme and reason behind the foundational constitution of 1960?

Following this initial premise, the question remains-how is it that the independence

constitution of Nigeria conduces to development and the present constitution does not?

The general response to this poser is that rationality and the development ethic are mutually inclusive. In the development of societies, it is impossible to have one without the indispensable complement of the other.

And so the utility and potential of either constitution for the attainment of development is dependent on the extent of its conformity with logic and reason.

The movement of Nigeria away from the model of a modestly empowered center of the first republic to the bloated all powerful counterpart of the fourth republic was an accident and not a logical evolution. And it has remained true to this hazardous and haphazard origin. There is even less logic in the transformation of Nigeria from the comprising four self-sustaining regions of the first republic to the trivia of the thirty six states we now have. This structural deviation (the antithetical reinforcement of the center and corresponding flagellation of the states) has become mutually and negatively reinforcing.

The redistribution of powers between the first and second tier of government was accompanied by a shift in the public perception of government (from being seen) as agents of development and political equilibrium to instruments of power and patronage.

This fundamental shift and misadventure was facilitated by two intervening variablesmilitary rule and oil boom. The subversion of constitutional rule by the military culminated in the effort to superimpose its top down unified and centralized command control on Nigeria. It is to the aberration of the culture of military dictatorship and not logical constitutional evolution that Nigeria owes its present political configuration. Masquerading as a blessing, the curse of the oil boom then fostered the dysfunction of the antithesis of the development ethic- you do not need to work to acquire wealth, plenty of it.

The center grew to become all powerful with the capacity to facilitate discriminatory access to the centrally accumulated power and resources that were impounded and diverted from the second tier of government; and then assumed the role of a whimsical interventionist agency. Fiscal federalism and revenue derivation principle was wholly supplanted with centralization of revenue collection and distribution. All this has precipitated the prevalent culture of unaccountable power, profligacy, corruption and the antithesis of the development ethic.

A vital constitutional eligibility criterion for state creation is viability and capacity for self-sustenance but they are not an end to themselves or a mere formality. They are intended to foster the development ethic right at the creation and foundation of the new political entity-the principle of self-responsibility.

To the contrary, the thirty six states of Nigeria were founded on the counter culture that you do not need to generate or earn what you

spend. Creation of states in Nigeria came to be solely defined by consumption-not productivity and development. You just go to Abuja, now and again, to collect maintenance and bailout funds. If Nigeria is the sum total of its parts (the regions or the states) then Nigeria will collectively add up to be a liability if those parts are liabilities (as it is the case with the thirty six states) or an asset as was the case in the first republic-comprising, as it were, the relatively viable self-sustaining regions.

At the level of reciprocity between the government and the citizenry and fidelity to the development ethic, creation of states has worked out to perpetuate the underdevelopment syndrome. On account of the unearned nature of the monthly stipend, the governor does not, to that extent, feel obligated to hold himself accountable to the citizens of the state and the citizens similarly least expect accountability from the government. The behavior of both parties is governed by the logic of the flipside of the American Revolution battle cry-‘no taxation without representation (accountability). The logic of that flipside is ‘no accountability without taxation (income generated from the citizenry).

The two tiers of government in Nigeria today, namely the federal and states, function as the oppressive repository of the power of coercion and dispenser-in-chief of national cake largess on one hand and complicit dependents of the elaborate patronage system on another. In the first republic, commensurately constrained by modest capacity for patronage and resources at its disposal, the center lacked the power to significantly confer discriminatory advantage and assume the status of the propagator in chief of corruption, waste and impunity.

And the regions followed the logic of their creation and evolve to become functional units of development with self-motivating internal capacity for growth, prudence and rectitude.

Going forward, how do we rediscover the elixir of development ethic or what some leaders peculiarly coined the restructuring of the mind. The answer is of course self-evident in the analogy we have sketched above-and you guess right, it is restructuring or, more appropriately, the restoration of the norm of the political history of Nigeria-the federalist framework of the independence constitution (that was thwarted and bastardized by military rule. To be sure, federalism is not an end in itself neither is it a magic wand but its (responsive) made to measure structural constraints harbor the potential to serve as incentive and pointer towards the rediscovery of the development ethic. For the first time I want to agree with those who argue that good leadership will make all the difference for Nigeria. And this is because it takes good leadership to know and acknowledge that what you have, the structure you have, is not working and you need to do something about it. Where would Russia, Ukraine, Georgia and the Baltic republics be today if there was no Mikhail Gorbachev?

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