FRIDAY 15TH JUNE 2018

Currency Swap: CBN to Incentivise Importers Who Tender Chinese Renminbi Nume Ekeghe 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 has said it will incentivise importers and traders who tender their invoices in Renminbi (RMB).

This was revealed at the Bankers’ Committee meeting yesterday.

The CBN last week announced plans to start bi-weekly auctions of the Chinese currency.

But briefing journalists at the end of the meeting in Lagos,

the Chief Executive, Stanbic IBTC Bank, Mr. Demola Sogunle, pointed out that the central bank recently issued regulations for transactions in Renminbi.

He added: “As we speak now, China is the biggest trading partner with Nigeria

and on the back of the currency swap; Nigeria has access to RMB 15 billion in terms of facilitation of trade.

“So, what has come out of the Bankers’ Committee meeting today is that importers of Chinese equipment, machinery, goods are being

encouraged to get invoices in RMB. “The CBN is willing to incentivise importers so that instead of bringing invoices in dollars they should bring invoices in RMB. “To the extent of that bilateral currency swap is in

6,800 Delegates to Vote at APC Convention ... Page 10

place and Nigeria is able to tap into about RMB 15 billion, we should be able to use that to facilitate trade and this should speak directly to encouraging small and medium scale enterprises playing in the Nigerian-Chinese trade corridor.”

Throwing more light on Continued on page 10

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Stop Glorifying Thieves, Treat them with Ignominy, Buhari Tells Nigerians Says Abiola, Fawehinmi's families showed good examples Sultan declares today as Sallah day Atiku, Saraki, Dogara, others urge Nigerians to keep hope alive despite challenges Deji Elumoye and Omololu Ogunmade in Abuja Mohammed Aminu in Sokoto President Muhammadu Buhari yesterday in Abuja admonished Nigerians to put paid to the attitude of celebrating corrupt people in the country but should rather treat such persons

with dishonour.

Buhari who made this remark last night in his Sallah message to Muslims in commemoration of the end of Ramadan, urged "ordinary Nigerians to stop glorifying thieves by treating them with disdain for bringing hardships Continued on page 10

Buratai Admits Shortcomings in Operations in North-west, North-central Says Army strategising for decisive offensive Senator Iroegbu in Abuja The Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lt-Gen. Tukur Buratai, yesterday admitted that the efforts by the Nigerian military to tackle the state of insecurity in the North-central and North-west had not yielded the desired outcome.

Buratai stated this in a

statement to felicitate with soldiers and their families on the occasion of 2018 Eidel-Fitr celebration, promising to address the situation and strategise on how to effectively deal with the insecurity in the two regions.

He nonetheless, commended Continued on page 10

US, Korean Consortium to Invest $10bn in 4,185MW Ebonyi Power Project... Page 12

BACK TO BASE...

Former Governor of Ondo State, Dr Olusegun Mimiko, during his return to the Labour Party (LP) from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in Ondo...yesterday

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6,800 Delegates to Vote at APC Convention Onyebuchi Ezigbo in Abuja About 6,800 delegates will participate in the National Convention of the All Progressives Congress (APC) scheduled for Saturday, June 23.

In addition, 1,200 dignitaries and party men and women are expected to attend the event that would take place at the Eagle Square in Abuja.

Speaking with journalists at the convention secretariat in Abuja yesterday, the Secretary of the convention committee, Senator Victor

Ndoma-Egba, said contrary to the insinuation that the convention would be postponed, the exercise would go on as planned.

"It is not correct. The convention is going on June 23 as planned. Nothing has happened to suggest the contrary. So, I can say categorically that convention is going ahead," he said.

Ndoma-Egba said the party was expecting about 6,800 plus delegates and more of its members to attend the convention.

He said: "Of course you

know that we will have observers, vendors, the media and entertainers. In all you should expect about 8000 people."

On the disputes arising from the state congresses, the convention secretary said they strove to resolve all issues, including the cases in court before the convention.

"We are hoping to resolve those issues before the convention, especially in states where we have court processes,� he said, adding, “We are working to resolve them in one way

or the other. This is politics and at the end of the day, you must leave a window open for harmonization and reconciliation.�

Ndoma Egba said he couldn’t give the number of aspirants that had scaled through the screening exercise until the appeal committee finishes its own assignment.

On the issue of funding, the former Senate leader said that has not been a challenge.

He also promised that the committee was taking measures to ensure adequate security for the venue and

indeed the capital city during the convention.

Meanwhile, the Screening Appeal sub-Committee has requested aspirants with complaints to submit their petitions.

The screening committee led by Katsina State Governor, Alhaji Bello Masari, concluded the screening of about 179 aspirants on Tuesday.

THISDAY gathered that the Screening Appeal Committee headed by the Imo State Governor, Chief Rochas Okorocha, has started receiving petitions

with respect to the screening exercise.

According to a source, the committee will sit throughout tomorrow. The source said the aggrieved aspirants were expected to submit petition alongside evidence to back up their claims at the Imo State Governor's Lodge in Abuja, venue of the exercise, not later than 12 noon on Saturday, June 17.

It is not, however, clear how many aspirants have been disqualified by the Masari-led screening committee as at the time of filling this reports.

page statement issued in Abuja by his Media Adviser, Yusuph Olaniyonu, to mark the occasion, emphasised that only tolerance, stronger sense of patriotism and love for one another "will help the country surmount her current socio-economic challenges."

The senate president, while congratulating Muslim faithful across the country on the successful completion of the month-long Ramadan fast, called for sustained prayers for peace in the country.

According to him, despite the federal government’s efforts in combating the challenge of insecurity, it is imperative for Muslim faithful to utilise this period to pray fervently for peace and unity in the country.

On his part, Dogara in his message enjoined Muslims to sustain the lessons of Ramadan and replicate same in their daily lives for a better society.

He also called on the Ummah not to be carried away by only the pageantry of the Sallah celebration, but to use the occasion for sober reflection and extend gestures

and hands of support to the needy in the society as well as pray against the current security and economic situation of the country.

He emphasised the importance of peace, unity and tolerance among the diverse people of the country for the envisaged growth and development to take place.

Also, Ekweremadu congratulated Muslims on the successful conclusion of the Ramadan fast, urging them to continue to pray for the country, especially towards the successful conduct of the 2019 general elections.

He also enjoined them to remain true to the teachings of Islam imbibed during the fast even after the holy month.

According to him, "I congratulate our Muslim brothers and sisters for successfully observing the Ramadan fast and prayers, with its life-enriching lessons in the virtues of love, forbearance, unity, patriotism, self-sacrifice. “In the last one month, I observed the piety and the

He also used the occasion to commend the military personnel for their tireless contribution in the sustenance of peace and security across the country, urging all to remain professionally focused.

The army chief also promised to achieve his vision to transform the Nigerian Army into a more potent, professional and responsive force that will effectively curtail contemporary security challenges.

To this end, he reassured the officers and soldiers that issues bothering on training and welfare would continue to receive his utmost attention.

He said the army authorities would continue to do their

best to ensure the wellbeing of the officers and soldiers as well as their families.

Buratai also reaffirmed his loyalty and those of the army personnel to President Muhammadu Buhari as the Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, adding that the army would continue to remain apolitical while ensuring the sustenance of democracy.

STOP GLORIFYING THIEVES, TREAT THEM WITH IGNOMINY, BUHARI TELLS NIGERIANS to others."

The president's message contained in a statement by his Senior Special Assistant on Media and Publicity, Malam Garba Shehu, also commended the families of the late Chief MKO Abiola, Chief Gani Fawehinmi and Ambassador Baba Gana Kingibe, who received national honours on Tuesday, saying they had shown good examples and encouraged other Nigerians to follow their examples.

"In this respect, President Buhari lauded the families of recipients of national honours for showing good examples to Nigerians and urged our country men and women to copy their good examples," the statement added.

The statement added that Buhari enjoined religious leaders to always pray for peace and unity of the country and avoid making inflammatory utterances that can incite violence or promote conflicts. He also appealed to citizens to forgive one another and embrace peace.

It said the president thanked Nigerians for their patience thus far,

assuring them that their sacrifices would not be in vain, explaining that his government was reforming the "country that was pushed into near decay on account of corruption comes with teething pains."

He added: "But these pains are temporary, the APC administration which I am privileged to lead, is beholden to the ordinary Nigerians and will leave no stone unturned to make their security, welfare and happiness our priority."

It further said the president advised religious leaders to pray for the peace and unity of the country and shun utterances capable of instigating violence and conflicts.

According to the statement, the president appealed to fellow citizens to forgive one another and embrace peace.

It also said the president thanked Nigerians for their patience and assured them that their sacrifices would not be in vain, adding that reforming a country that was pushed into near decay on account of corruption is

tasking.

The statement quoted the president as saying that his government would leave no stone unturned to ensure that their security, welfare and happiness are its priority, admonishing them that the pain they go through at the moment is temporal.

"But these pains are temporary, the APC administration which I am privileged to lead, is beholden to the ordinary Nigerians and will leave no stone unturned to make their security, welfare and happiness our priority," the president stated.

According to the statement, Buhari stressed the importance of putting the virtues of Islam into practice beyond the fasting season and congratulated Muslims on completing ''this spiritually significant month of sacrifice."

It also said the president urged Muslims to reflect on the importance of Ramadan in becoming good ambassadors of Islam at all times, pointing out that "religion should be the moral compass for all believers in

their public and personal lives."

Atiku, Saraki, Dogara, Others Urge Nigerians to Keep Hope Alive Other Nigerian leaders including, former VicePresident Atiku Abubakar, Senate President Bukola Saraki and Speaker of the House of Representatives, Hon. Yakubu Dogara, and Deputy Senate President, Ike Ekweremadu, also called on Muslims to project Islam through the good examples of love, tolerance and peaceful disposition at all times.

Atiku in his message, urged Muslims to imbibe the virtues of the sacrifice of Ramadan, adding that the fasting period makes believers appreciate the impact of hunger and be more committed to the hardships of millions who cannot feed themselves.

He equally explained that the event should reinforce the fear of Allah in the hearts of the believers.

Similarly, Saraki in a one-

Continued on page 12

BURATAI ADMITS SHORTCOMINGS IN OPERATIONS IN NORTH-WEST, NORTH-CENTRAL the Nigerian Army for the successes recorded so far in the counter-terrorism and counter-insurgency operations against Boko Haram terrorists in the North-east.

Figures being bandied put the lives so far lost in Zamfara, Kaduna, Adamawa, Taraba, Nasarawa, Benue and Kogi States to bandits, cattle rustlers and herdsmen since January at over 3,000.

A cross-section of Nigerians including former Minister of Defence, General Yakubu Danjuma (rtd), had accused the military of docility and complicity, calling on Nigerians to wake up and defend themselves against the frequent attacks.

The accusations were based on the fact that despite the operations such as Operation Deep Punch II, Exercise Ayem Akpatuma (Exercise Cat Race) and Operation Last Hold set up by the army to tackle the marauding killers, no meaningful success was achieved.

Following the accusations, the army high command had set up a panel in Taraba State to investigate if indeed its officers and men were colluding with herdsmen in the state to perpetrate killings.

The panel dismissed the allegations and gave the army a clean bill of health.

But Buratai in his statement promised to address the

situation and strategise on how to effectively deal with the insecurity in the two regions.

According to him, "The achievements recorded by the army in the various activities conducted in the last few months are worthy of mention. “These activities include the successful conduct of Operation Deep Punch II, Exercise Ayem Akpatuma (Exercise Cat Race) and Operation Last Hold, which is ongoing and the hosting of the African Land Forces Summit in Abuja to mention but a few. Furthermore, we have effectively tackled the Boko Haram insurgency.

"However, in the areas of

kidnapping, cattle rustling in the North-central and North-western regions, we are re-strategising to decisively deal with the situation."

The army boss said the feat calls for officers and soldiers to redouble their efforts in the collective discharge of their constitutional roles, charging them to maintain discipline, be committed, dedicated, resilient and courageous in the discharge of their duties.

On Eid-el-Fitr, Buratai said the celebration, which climaxed the Holy month of Ramadan offered an opportunity for spiritual renewal of their collective commitment to the Nigerian Army and the nation at large.

CURRENCY SWAP: CBN TO INCENTIVISE IMPORTERS WHO TENDER CHINESE RENMINBI the benefit of the call by the CBN for traders to tender their invoices in the Chinese currency, Sogunle said it means an importer would actually take lesser naira to the banks.

He noted that the move was to encourage importers to receive invoices in RMB instead of US dollars.

He explained: “One of the incentives would be that a percentage spread would be given to any importer that is giving RMB invoice for settlement instead of bringing a dollar invoice. “So, when you look at the

overall cost of the naira, if you bring a RMB invoice, it is going to be cheaper for the importer coming to CBN to get currency.�

Also commenting on how the bilateral currency agreement would support the country’s external reserves accretion, the Stanbic IBTC boss said: “We have got almost $48 billion in our reserves and because we trade a lot with China, if we are able as a country to continue to bring in machinery and equipment without depleting our dollar reserves, then the

external reserve would not be under threat. “So, with the RMB 15 billion in place, we are in a very good position. That is why it is important to encourage importers to bring invoices in RMB instead of dollars.�

Also speaking on how the arrangement would benefit importers who present RMB invoices to banks, the chief executive of Keystone Bank Limited, Mr. Obeahon Ohiwerei, said: “Anytime invoices are obtained in dollars for import that is going to come from China for instance,

there is usually at least a 10 per cent mark up, so that 10 per cent is the minimum savings instantly.�

On his part, the Director, Banking Supervision, CBN, Mr. Ahmad Abdullahi, who was also at the media briefing, said the central bank was in a good shape to curtail any foreseen circumstances in the macroeconomic environment.

Abdullahi said: “For the economy, the committee recognised the mixed signals coming from the global economy. The rise in US interest rate and its impact

on the Nigerian economy, the trade wars and its impact also on the Nigerian economy, the tax cut in the United States and what it means for capital outflow for emerging economies like Nigeria.�

Similarly, the Chief Executive Officer of the United Bank for Africa (UBA), Mr. Keneddy Uzoka, said: “CBN is in a very strong position to defend the exchange rate.

The CBN has been intervening in all the markets and in the most recent times, gives the BDCs money three times in a week.�

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US, Korean Consortium to Invest $10bn in 4,185MW Ebonyi Power Project Olawale Ajimotokan in Abuja A consortium of investors from the US and South Korea has offered to invest the sum of $10 billion into the Ebonyi Independent Power Project (EIPP) by the end of September.

The investors made commitment to invest in the Nigerian energy sector yesterday when the delegation led by Terey Moreland, Chairman Hodges and Bakersfield Limited, paid a visit to the Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF), Mr. Boss Mustapha.

Moreland told the SGF that their legal and management partners had evaluated that the project would be carried out in three phases.

The EIPP is a public-private partnership between Hodges & Bakersfield Limited and the Ebonyi State Government. And seek to develop a 4185MW Power Plant to be sited at the West Bank of the Cross River on Oferekpe/Akahufu Inyimagu land in Ikwo Local Government Area of Ebonyi State.

The project is owned 80 per cent by the Hodges & Bakersfield Limited and 20 percent by the Ebonyi State Government. The funding of this project is 100 percent by Hodges & Bakersfield Limited through an equity and debt arrangement.

The value of the first part of the project is worth $3 billion.

The completed plant will consist of 9 x 310MW Gas Turbine Units.

The construction process will be in 4 phases. The First - Third phases consist of 3 gas turbines of 930MW each whilst the fourth stage consists

Mustapha of 1395MW Combined Cycle Steam Turbines. The projected gas requirement of the completed plant is 221 Billion Cubic Feet per year. Phase 1 requires 73.67 Billion Cubic Feet per year.

Moreland said their visit to the SGF was to secure government’s support in acquiring licence and in getting gas for the power project here in the country. Moreland gave assurance of their capacity to finance the project.

He similarly said they had the technical capacity to assist the Nigeria National Petroleum Company (NNPC) by laying the pipeline that will be connected to the grid.

The SGF expressed federal government's full commitment to investing in infrastructure that will meet the needs of its citizenry.

The SGF told representatives of the consortium that government would

welcome business men with genuine intention to do business in the country as there is an enabling environment for investment to thrive.

Mustapha further assured the group that government would do everything possible to support them wherever there are constraints in getting approval and acquiring licence from Transmission Company of Nigeria (TCN), Nigerian Electricity Regulatory Commission (NERC), Ministry of Power, Works and Housing and Ministry of Environment that would enable them to carry out their projects in energy.

"We want to invite the whole world to come and invest in Nigeria. As a country and government, we are interested in issuance of any licence and we will treat it with dispatch�, he added.

He presented to the investors the areas of the country’s concern as in tackling the 17 million housing deficit, energy distribution because of the rise in the generation among other things.

He advised them to do a formal letter that will contain details of the projects and also enumerate areas of constraints.

Apart from Moreland, the other individuals at the meeting with Mustapha included, Cyril - Solicitor to the Project, President & CEOCompany : DongGang Agro-Specialized Industrial Complex Development Co. Ltd Jang Wonjin, An, Chul Gyu - Wonjin, Choi, Minhyun, Onyebuchi, Anyaku Alicho, Duze Musa Theobald, Ituah Ighodalo , Carnahan Daniel Lawrence, Kim Chol Koun and Director- Keumho Solar Co. Ltd, Project Relation- Gas Pipeline Supplier, Kim Jimoh.

Airlines Sold N505bn Tickets in 2017, Says NCAA Chinedu Eze The Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA) yesterday said domestic and international airlines operating in Nigeria sold tickets worth N505.2 billion in 2017.

The regulatory body said it arrived at the figures after reconciliation with the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN) and the Nigerian Airspace Management Agency (NAMA).

This is a record rise in sales to N82.7 billion (14.2 per cent), compared to 2016 when the value of tickets sold was N411,564,564,692.80.

The Director-General of NCAA, Captain Muhtar Usman, made the disclosure at the quarterly business breakfast meeting of the Aviation Round Table (ART) in Lagos.

Usman, who was represented by the Director, Consumer Protection Directorate, NCAA, Adamu Abdullahi, said eight domestic airlines sold N93.6 billion worth of tickets, while the 32 airlines on the international routes sold tickets, worth N411.6 billion, during the period under review.

According to NCAA records, in 2016, domestic airlines realised N79,482,958,601.60 from ticket sales, while international airlines realised N342,923,645,298.71 from ticket sales.

He said there were 90 sanctions or penalties on airlines, including 15 pilots, five cabin crew, engineers, a private security firm, four Aircraft

Maintenance Organisations (AMO) and five airlines.

He noted, however, that sanctioning was not an achievement but a deterrent made to ensure that violators do not repeat violations.

Speaking on some of the NCAA’s Key Performance Indexes (KPI), Usman stated that the NCAA in the past four years has had steady improvements in certain areas, especially as regards professional advancement.

He stated that for the third year running, the country’s aviation industry has recorded zero accidents and this was due to airlines’ adherence to standard operating procedures (SOPs), which are brought about by well-trained safety instructors.

The key performance index also showed advancement in licensing, which indicated that from January to December 2017 licensed pilots increased by 130 from 2016, as the number rose to 2,356 from 2,226.

The NCAA boss further stated that under the period of evaluation, passenger traffic for 21 airports in the country stood at a total of 25,528 as average daily departure was 12,761, while departure stood at 12,767 with 305 aircraft movement.

He said the amount realised from the sale of tickets would have been higher if not for the closure of the Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport, Abuja, for six weeks to enable the government rehabilitate its runway.

“A stable forex regime, effective implementation of the Executive Order on Ease of Doing Business as well as the resumption of flight activities to the Maiduguri Airport, earlier closed due to insecurity, contributed to the increase,� he said.

Also, the Managing Director of the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN), Mr. Saleh Dunoma, said the NCAA, in accordance with the regulations of the International Civil Aviation Organisation (ICAO), had certified Lagos and Abuja airports worthy for maximum flight operations.

Dunoma, who was represented by the General Manager, Safety Services, FAAN, Mr. Elifue Agbi, said the agency was collaborating with Airport Council International (ACI) to certify the Kano and Port Harcourt airports. “We have started the process of certifying these airports, following the successes we recorded in Lagos and Abuja. Enugu and Kaduna airports will follow subsequently,’’ he said.

Earlier, the President of ART, Mr. Gbenga Olowo, said there was need for aviation agencies to set up KPI to measure their achievements from time to time.

Olowo said the group would continue to ensure the advancement of the industry by consistently promoting safety and professionalism through effective working relationship with government and other stakeholders.

STOP GLORIFYING THIEVES, TREAT THEM WITH IGNOMINY, BUHARI TELLS NIGERIANS spirit of giving associated with the month, and therefore, urge our Muslim brothers and sisters to remain their brother's keeper till eternity so as to make the society better for all.�

Sultan Declares Today Sallah Day The Sultan of Sokoto, Alhaji Muhammadu Sa'ad Abubakar, has

declared today as the day for Eid-elFitr festival.

The declaration was sequel to the sighting of the new moon of Shawwal in many states across the country.

The monarch who announced this in his palace in Sokoto yesterday night, said the new crescent was sighted in Borno, Sokoto, Kaduna, Plateau, Kano and Nasarawa States among others.

The monarch said the reports were verified and authenticated by the National Moon Sighting Committee.

"In accordance with Islamic law, we have the honour and pleasure to announce that today, Thursday, the 29th day of Ramadan,1439 AH, which is equivalent to June 14, 2018 has marked the end of Ramadan and the beginning of the new month of Shawwal,� he said.

Two-Minute BrieďŹ ng NEWS NEITI: Nigeria, Not IOCs, Guilty of Delayed Review of 1993 Oil PSCs’ Terms The Nigeria Extractive Industries Transparency Initiatives (NEITI) yesterday said it was Nigeria and not the International Oil Companies (IOCs) operating in the country that should be held responsible for the delay or lack of review of the terms contained in the 1993 crude oil Production Sharing Contracts...

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Group News NEITI: Nigeria Editor Ejiofor Alike , Not IOCs, Gu of 1993 Oil PS ilty of Delayed Cs’ Terms Review Email Ejiofor.

Chineme Okafor

Alike@thisday

live.com, 08066 06626

8

in Abuja

contained in the 1993 crude The Nigeria Extractive Production oil have remained Sharing Contracts Industries Transparency untouched Initiatives (NEITI) (PSCs) signed by both parties. close to 25 years, despite for provide Nigerians yesterday said The federal governme with simplified the conditions that informatio and not the it was Nigeria reportedly provided for nt International their extractive n about the country’s be necessary again. So what failed to review had review had been Companies Oil terms we supposed the sectors, NEITI’s have done is to say, (IOCs) operating in the PSCs NEITI explainedmet. to review, this we failed in the country it signed act, this is not with IOCs at a meeting Executive Secretary, Mr. is what money they to the country had lost.

Waziri us Adio, stated held responsibl that should be investmen in 1993, to enable in Abuja where it unveiled owe Not to say because we that Nigeria e for the delay online an ts in deep are the country, that we should recoup or lack of review offshore platform information sharing two options that should had we are the the money because that ones that of the terms oil projects. trigger law a review of - the NEITI and the law says owns the is not moneymoney is gone. It the PSCs terms.

Based on this, the 1993 terms Dashboard, that while the Data you Adio that anybody country country explained that the review and you failed should owe us, but signed the to put a cost is to review PSCs terms to the IOCs and with the termswas supposed to review you are the one that dropped inaction so that we use that the ball because either when to follow up with was expected to rose oil prices we didn’t act,� make sure that something to that doesn’t as stipulated, periodic reviews years $20 per barrel or after 20 Adio said. happen again like it of operation According to and thus, resulting failed to do this, him, the NEITI also ensure that we do Both conditions of the PSCs. has embarked in huge oil revenue Traditional rulers what we are supposed losses. , he stated, on were ignored a to study denounce buying do,� he added. what the of by the country Recently, The agency the IOCs continued of votes and the periodcountry lost within Victor Ogunje the Nigerian National could not blamenoted that it with in Ado Ekiti it failed to to operate what they initially review (NNPC) Petroleum Corporatio the PSCs terms. the IOCs for and we won’t n signed. disclosed that let you down,� the country’s ineptitude “We signed these The United This, he noted, President Muhamma States of America he said. in this regards, adding agreements (USA), has a financial cost would help put the approvaldu Buhari had given it that the monies to attract the IOCs because Meanwhile, said that should on her at that Oba time, to interested and the world is has asked the US Ademolaju from periodichave accrued to her oil the technology to explore and perhaps push inactions of all PSCs undertake a review would monitor her terms the July 14 governorsh was to reviews to prevent to seriously take expensive and vote-buying reflect the of the PSCs current realities issues such were gone during the July ip election these incentives were in Ekiti State as this. in “What we are governorship 14 regained. and would not be NNPC’s Groupthe industry. poll doing were offended offered. They to say rules are not to ensure that Oba Ademolaju in the state. the companies is not Director, Dr. Maikanti Managing with the belief circumvented In his remarks the poll. owe us. Senate in bring observers urged US to We are doing Baru, told the at the unveiling that at some points, they must Committee on have from all over of the platform, which This is coming that if some a study to show (Upstream the Petroleum would and recouped their investment ) that as the voteworld to ensure that each Chairman of s had changed,of the parameters a those incentives countes in committee to he had set up the Council would not and if we had Traditional Rulers undertake this, of reviewed The monarch the election. adding what we in the state stated that and Oloye were begin that they would soon people are of Oye-Ekiti, the review process. resolute to the Oluwole Ademolaju Oba manipulati on in whatever resist the US to prevent , has urged saying the governors form, vote-buyin during the governorship g would be a pointer hip poll in the state. poll is to to what come in the 2019 general The US Consul election.

General in Nigeria, Mr. “We want John Bray, dropped the hint at a good office you to use your meeting with to bring monitors Ekiti State Council the of Traditional all over polling units.

Rulers held Security agencies must at the palace be above board Ewi of Ado-Ekiti, of Oba Rufus during and after the elections.

Adejugbe.

We want everybody to be carried He said there along. We want would be no compromi as monitors reputable groups present at polling to conduct se on the need units not and credible a free, fair moving people that will just be election in about,� he peaceful atmosphe a Another prominentsaid. re in line with global traditional ruler, Oba Adejugbe, best practices said the people Bray promised . would be happy that the US iscommit candidate won if the most popular the election. before, during ted to peace “We want and after peace election. the to count. and vote If the “We are on candidate won most popular the side at the the people.

We are here of day, nobody would end of the support free, raise to We are fair, concerned about a voice. peaceful election. credible and our domain, safety The eyes of we don’t want in the world will to be a battle ground.

Ekiti on July 14. Webe on Ekiti State choice We want the of the people would be here to emerge as governor in the election,� he added.

R-L:

US Promises to Monitor Ekiti Guber Poll

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Yemi Osinbajo; 1,800 housing-un Developme Enogie of Ukhiri, it Emotan Gardens nt and Property Agency His Royal Highness, project in Ikpoba-Ok (EDPA), Ms. Isoken Ambassador ha Local Governme Omo, during the nt Area, Edo State... ground-breaking recently

Bayelsa Profe ssor Collapses, in OfďŹ ce Dies Emmanuel Addeh in Yenagoa

EDITORIAL The End of Ramadan

Mimiko: Lack of

table in a sleeping position while efforts t

James Sowole

in Akure

Pro- masses

Ideology Mad M

NE 15, 2018

EDITORIAL

15

THE END OF Ramadan holds vital

T

RAMADAN

lessons for everyon he Muslims ’ holy e self-puriďŹ cation month of otherwise knownand self-denial as Ramada has just ended.

While it lasted,n important as the season of fasting and of our wealth ours. By allowing others offered all Muslims prayer the One who or material possessions, to partake the opportu nity to reect we honour This happens gave us the wealth in with Allah. on their relationship the with means It also enabled virtue hardly to be at the heart of all ďŹ rst place. to empathise those and the less religions but imbibed by privileged. with the poor, the needy many in Nigeria a For an opportu today. nity to rededica all Muslims, it was ince the Ramada teachings of the faith and te themselves to the pillars of Islam, n fast, like the other a whole. the cause of four was aimed mankind as the spiritual However, even and material at promoting both it stands though the well-being has now come of man, month-l better off doing to reason that man is invariably As one of the and gone, its lessons ong fasting himself. When the will of God than should merely pleasing highly spiritualďŹ ve pillars of Islam, Ramada endure. self-gratiďŹ cationhe is able to rein in the signiďŹ ca n has impulse for period of self-emp a nce. To and greedy man is more tying withoutdevotees, it was a liable to make accumulation of wealth, which no spiritual place to live his society

BY PAYING ATTENT in, not only a better being ION for neighbou himself but can have TO THE PLIGHT r. That for us also for his truly rewardin a was one of lessons of Ramada POOR AS WAS OF THE the most enduring n which we relationship g have imbibed. hope many DEMONSTRATEAMPLY with would his or her maker.

D IN THE By paying attention COURSE OF That explains to the plight RAMADAN, as was amply of the poor WE INVARIA the exercise why Ramadan, we demonstrated in the course BLY was THE WELFAR PLACE marked in Nigeria neighbour as invariably place the welfare of E NEIGHBOUR OF OUR of our to partake of important as ours. By AS IMPORTANT (as elsewhere allowing others AS OURS in the world) we honour our wealth or material the One who possessions, private and by ďŹ rst place. gave us the group wealth in the abstinence prayers, and from It is notewor pleasures. The all forms of worldly T H I S DAY cise is advocate thy that fasting as a comforts and EDITOR BOLAJI spiritual exerspiritual growthaim of all of that was d by all religions ADEBIYI DEPUTY EDITOR notion that and foster charity to enhance ostensibly with DAVIDSON the man who love.

MANAGING IRIEKPEN and brotherl the bid can DEPUTY MANAGINGDIRECTOR ENIOLA to make sacriďŹ ce tame his BELLO y As the Muslim DIRECTOR KAYODE CHAIRMAN s in the both for himselfdesires would be a better EDITORIAL KOMOLAFE faithful therefore BOARD OLUSEGUN EDITOR NATION’S of this annual and the larger person ADENIYI expert puts mark the end CAPITAL IYOBOSA society. As MANAGING it, besides abstentio UWUGIAREN outcome will spiritual exercise, it is EDITOR JOSEPH one drink, fasting hoped that USHIGIALE n from the Clearly, there be of immense beneďŹ t the provocat helps the faithful “from food and to ive, sharing with has never been a greater the nation. looking at from uttering from hearing the mischiev T H I S DAY of our society the less privileged and need for ous, and EDITOR-IN-C N E W S PA P E R S from thinking the obscene...to avoid the needy GROUP EXECUTIVE HIEF/CHAIRMAN NDUKAL I M I T E D slander and Nigerians can than exists now when about inicting millions All said, the hardly make ISRAEL IWEGBU, DIRECTORS ENIOLA BELLO, OBAIGBENA economic situation KAYODE KOMOLAFE, IJEOMA NWOGWUGW nation’s leaders,injury to others.â€? ends meet due of DIVISIONAL wise, DIRECTORS have much to the political PETER IWEGBU, U, EMMANUEL EFENI tion to the plight in the country. By ANTHONY madan. If only to take from the lessonsand otherpaying attenOGEDENGBE of the poor DEPUTY DIVISIONALBOLAJI ADEBIYI strated in the , they can curtail of RaDIRECTOR OJOGUN tendencies course of the as was amply demontheir material SNR. ASSOCIATE VICTOR DANBOYI and invariably place Ramadan fasting, ASSOCIATE DIRECTOR ERIC istic of the people, pay more attention to DIRECTORS OJEH the welfare CONTROLLE the yearning RS ABIMBOLA PATRICK EIMIUHI, SAHEED of our neighbo we TAIWO, UCHENNA much happier the country will certainly ADEYEMO s DIRECTOR, ur as PRINTING PRODUCTION DIBIAGWU, place to live become a NDUKA our leaders in. We therefore CHUKS ONWUDINJO MOSERI TO SEND EMAIL: to imbibe ďŹ rst name.surnam To our numerou the lessons of Ramadaurge e@thisdayliv e.com s Muslim audience n.

Mubarak! s we say, Eid

The Muslims’ holy month of self-purification and self-denial otherwise known as Ramadan has just ended.While it lasted, the season of fasting and prayer offered all Muslims the opportunity to reflect on their relationship with Allah.

O Page 15

S

Letters to the Editor

Letters in response to speciďŹ c readers may TO OUR READERS send such letters publications in THISDAY opinions on topical along with their should be brief local, national (150-200 words) 1000 words). and internatiocontact details to They should and straight be sent to opinion@nal issues providedopinion@thisdaylive.com. to the point.

Interested We thisdaylive.com they are well-writt en and shouldalso welcome comment along with the s and also not be longer email address than (950and phone numbers of the writer.

DANJUMA A

ND THE SECU RITY CHALLEN GES

n Saturday, March 24, Lt. raised tension Gen. T. Y. Danjuma accused the in the polity when he has access to military of pointedly the people bias in the prosecutio of its operations in power. So, ventilated in if his concerns good against security n some parts with the military faith, why were they were being challenges in of the country. not shared high command in confidence going public or governmen by the military juma alleged that ethnic Specifically, Danwith those t itself, rather concerns and cleansing to inciting the There had been was on-going in his than in a manner people? The home state orchestrated clashes between that amounted needful by of Taraba. who settled probing Dajuma’smilitary high command native in ties announced did the allegations.

Taraba, Benue, some states across the farmers and herdsmen a On April 9, country including the authoriInaugurating panel to do the job. necessitating Kaduna and Plateau the panel th leadi the d l B C

POLITICS The Swinging Axe Claims Some Victims

red flags in governmen t and the nation’s security challenges, security circle. and local farmers/heincluding the insurgency The in the North-East rdsmen clashes, but the Buhari predate this governmen administration determined t has left no to restore security one in doubt gain in th that it i to ll

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POLITICS

Group Politics Email: nseobo

TRE

The SwingingN D I N G N E W S Nseobong Okon Axe Claims So former gover -Ekong, Segun Jame me

The significance of the day would continue to reverberate across Nigeria for different reason; especially with the recent reparation pronounced by President Muhammadu Buhari on the historic epoch, June 12.

Page 17

17 Editor NSEOB ONG OKON-E KONG ng.okonekong @thisdaylive. com 0811449532 4 SMS ONLY

Victims

trial for similanors who are members s and Shola Oyeyipo write of the ruling r allegations APC may cause that the recent convi ction of anxiety to their counterpartstwo a school of thought on that

T

he significanc continue to e of the day would Nigeria for reverberate across especially withdifferent reasons; ration pronouncthe recent repaed by President Muhammadu epoch, June Buhari on the 12. For Senator historic a former governor Joshua of Plateau State, Dariye, now represents June 12 the day his Looking world fell apart.

the effort of the anti-graftcast aspersion on indicted politician agency to bring categories of s to book witch-hunt breach of trustoffences, namely criminal against politicianas a calculated opposition parties. s from the sentence for which attracts a two-year each affected The accusatio criminal misappro count tion politician n of witch-hunt of intently at Justice priation whichand penalty of 14 Banjoko of the has a years. been watered s by the EFCC seemsopposiFederal High Adebukola The sentences to have as she pronounc Court, of Nyame anddown with the convictio which means are to run concurren ted him to prisoned him guilty and Abuja Dariye who n APC; and incidenta tly commitare of the for 14 years, years in jail. he will spend a maximum not contain lly from Dariye could Their Christian his 14 Shortly before Two weeks emotions. He wept bitterly. background the north. a weighty considera may also be Dariye’s lawyer, the verdict was read, delivered a earlier, Justice Banjoko tion in a country is often sharply similar judgment Paul Erokoro, described his matter in which that divided SAN, in a related religious lines. along ethnic a former of ignorance client’s actions as the Taraba State, and product . Erokoro blamed A senior lawyer Jolly Nyamegovernor of and the banks years for misappro was jailed for the system on the evolving who pleaded anonymit 14 According tofor the actions of his client.

Dariye, a servingpriating state funds. political scenario y another Erokoro, convictio is a chartered senator represent said Mr. Plateau Central accountant, Dariye, who before the 2019 n is not likely to be that ing Senatorial District, when he approach was accused of embezzlin made He said that general elections. was ed the banksmisguided cial assistance g N1.162 billion ecological funds for finanBanjoko was the speed with which . belonging Responding, After the judgment to his state. the President transferred to the CCT, Mr. Rotimi Jacobs, drew , Dariye pleaded for SAN, is being tried of Senate, Dr. Bukola where years the attention of the court clemency but cried and Saraki He was charged of legal battle his time was to the many positioned forsuggests that she is being embarked up. defendan agency, Economicto court by the anti-graft the kill in the Dariye upon by the t. As senate president case of the and Financial suddenly stoodhe was speaking, Dariye Commission, Crimes A media aide . up and asked EFCC, in 2010. tion lawyer understandably, The truism that of the Senate the prosecuto however, dismissed become jittery President, the rich also reality of a possible “Be merciful.be merciful. have succinctly as the the insinuatio cry may from Banjoko’s described prison sentence them in the n arising name is Jacob,� You are a Christian. Your the court as appointment. face. that the appointm stares he said Dariye was the situation in He affirmed The judge noted The judgment to serve time. driven to the ent of the chairman the CCT has

by Banjoko prison convictio the efforts but added that a constitutional of The trial and n of high profile is the first and is a tenured “there should of Erokoro, subsequent comprom the current political Dariye and politicians in not be position. He guarantee convictio appointing disclosed that corruptio ise in corruption. Corruptio dispensat country. Many a new chairman Taraba Statehis former counterpart n of n.� least, two-third n is Nigerians see ion in the required, at and daring.

After the judgment government is a great political coupfrom majority of the her as bold The trial of Dariye , Dariye was Senate. police van from However, the hari whose of President Muhamm for the led into a began eight under the Peoples major campaign adu speed with to Kuje Prison-hiwhere he was transport years ago the fight against which she Democra promise wasBu- was appointed the chairman government ed s new residence next 14 years by the governm of Dr. Goodlucktic Party (PDP) by his famous corruption. He is driven of the CCT for the unless But ent the statemen an Jonathan. has case otherwise appeal conviction. cast blight on kill corruptio t that, “if we court rules .

There which went was stalled by litigations the n, Dariye came By appointin corruption will kill do not the conviction of are many implications Court whichall the way to the Supreme to internatio the former governor of when he skipped Banjoko’s appointm later man of the Codeg Justice Banjoko as us.� nal attention s and returned to the ordered that the case Chairof Conduct ent. ber, 2004 followingbail in the UK in The vociferou (CCT) barely High Court be Tribunal for trial. his arrest on Septemlaundering of high profile s clamour for convictio two ex-govern24 hours after convictin moneycharges.

The Verdict g the been loud and politicians on trial has n Twice he was appears to haveors, the federal governm sacked as governor “In the absence strong. Many sent a signal ent twice have ciary that it he been of returned of the to the judiconcrete evidence dragging on and cases justifying these is willing to to reclaim his earning him years; leading for professionalism, reward position, be described payments, it can safely to a growingas long as 10 while many exemplary nine lives.� the nickname “the cat as misappro nors who are believe in the former gover- populace that it was a with Justice Banjoko, priation,� said on trial for corruptio deliberate ploy buy time and But it appears who found of n have, 15 out of the to Dariye guilty finally run out Mr. Dariye may have off the hook. later let the accused persons 23-count charge him.

On the other against has sent him of luck, as a Nigerian hand, there to jail following court Dariye was exists corruption and convicted for charges of money launderin two main g.

SENATOR JONA H

FORMER GOVE

JANG (PDP)

RNORS ON

The EFCC preferred a 12-count charge fraud against of governor of Senator Jonah Jang, a representingPlateau State. He is the former Senator Assembly. Plateau North in the National

TRIAL FOR

CORRUPTION

IBRAHIM SHEM

A (PDP)

Former Katsina State governor, Shema, is standing Ibrahim trial before the High Court Federal sitting in Katsina charge for money on a 26-count launderi

Case Commence Monday, May d on 7 2017 All

WEEKENDFILE ‘I Have Passion for Interior Design’

How did your journey into interior design start?

My daddy is an architect and a lot of people say I got it from him but my background is in business and investment banking; that is literally where my training is. However, I found out about 14 years ago that I love design and I started to explore interior design. I have a talent for it. I have an affinity for it and a passion for it, so I started to pursue it.

Page 27

WEEKEND WEEK LY PULL OUT

Group Feature s Editor, Chiem

NEW S| P30

elie Ezeobi

Email chieme

COLL AGE

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lie.ezeobi@th

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INTERIOR DESIGN’

BUSINESS Nigeria Loses $5bn Annually to Lopsided

Bilateral Agreements Nigeria loses over $5 billion annually in the aviation industry which includes about $2 billion repatriated per annum by foreign airlines and unserviced Bilateral Air Service Agreement (BASA).

This unfortunate incident occurs because the country does not have major airlines to reciprocate flight services to countries whose airlines operate in Nigeria.

Page 19

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Quick Takes

Chicago Joins Ethiop

Ethiopian Airlines ia has commence Network just as the Ethiopian d services to Airlines has deployed Chicago. This aircraft to the is route. one of its Boeing “Chicago will 787 be the Americas. our fourth destination in It most important is the third biggest city the U.S. and our 7th in in the U.S. and “We will be ďŹ llingglobal aviation hubs. one of the will be the only a critical air connectivi ty vacuum as direct service is the main hub our ights between Chicago the ight will of our Star Alliance partner; and Africa. Chicago be operated United Airlines together with product for and travellers from United to avail destinations all over the the in U.S. connecting best “The ight will Africa. to 58 further boost R-L: Executive people relations the growing economic Director, Marine and Operations Usman; Managing and people-toin particular between the U.S. and Africa by during the official Director of STARZ Investmen, Nigerian Ports Authority tourism,â€? the enabling greater ow of in general and Ethiopia inauguration (NPA), Dr. Sokonte Group Chief of MV Osanyamot Company Limited, Gregory Executive OďŹƒcertrade, investment and Mr. Tewolde in Onne, Rivers GebreMariam Ogbeifun; and Davies; Managing Director, of Ethiopian Ethiopian Airlines said. the Port Manager, State‌recently Airlines, NPA, Hadiza Bala(Ethiopian) is Onne Port, Alhassan In its seventy the fastest growing Ismaila, plus of the continent’s years of operation, Ethiopian Airline in Africa. leading carriers, has operational unrivalled in become one success. eďŹƒciency pan-African passengerEthiopian commands the lion’s share and and cargo and most modern of the eet to more network operating the youngest and cargo destinatio than Chinedu Eze ns across ďŹ ve 110 international passenger Ethiopian eet continents. aircraft such includes ultra-modern and as Airbus A350, environmentally Nigeria loses 777-300ER, Boeing 787-8, friendly over $5 billion and supports AVIATIO N Boeing 777-200L Boeing 787-9, annually Bombardier in the aviation Boeing R, Boeing jobs including over 650, 800 from Q-400 double industry ďŹ ve years. cabin with an 777-200 Freighter, which includes employment. tourism-related pointsone point but from several average eet about $2 billion because such Chicago huge amount age of of the potential is the airline’s The Director repatriated that is available. per annum of loss was fourth destination General because in the Americas. by in the U.S. and and unservice foreign airlines major Nigeria does not have that a national carrier noted “We the seventh airlines to take would meet have not been able d Bilateral enable the country Service Agreemen Air of the to advantage the need of Airport reclaim huge position the market. its We have s Ready for Sallah opportunities in This unfortuna t (BASA). the aviation lost a The Federal in to foreign a market it had lost market.

Airports Authority Celebration been losing lot and we have occurs because te incident airlines, adding airport users The market of Nigeria that advantage a lot by not taking has a very high with government that does not have the country potential support to the country would all the airports under (FAAN) has assured all of those its manageme service agreement bilateral air to reciprocate major airlines double and is expected to other airlines in the be fully ready passengers nt across country; to receive arriving in the next Nigeria would during the Eid-El-Mub don’t have strong, s because we countries whoseflight services to 10 years. multiply its “In line with our Usman said earnings from airlines operate viable carriers arak celebratio and departing that will in Nigeria. the n. advantage of the key take of air travellers, core mandate of ensuring “Let me say aviation sector. compete be able to effectively The Director to establish a the market was the with clearly that infrastructure FAAN has put in place all seamless facilitation potential national necessary facilities to Usman said. foreign airlines,�

Nigerian Civil General of the also at all airports ensure safe passage and grow two or carrier and in the aviationthat is existing and in a delightful experience ity (NCAA), Aviation Author- airlines more major The “We advise all Nigeria.

Captain Muhtar the market share industry and that Director General stressed to benefit our esteemed Usman, who from the Nigeria market, which get to the airports passengers and far as aviation in Nigeria, as exchange loses a lot of foreign the Internation airport users told THISDAY disclosed this, Air Transport is concerned “This will enable early enough as we envisage al huge. It to always is through in the aviation sector Association (IATA) is enormous interview on in an exclusive said a surge in traďŹƒc. capital flight good time and them to complete their . That is contribute why we Tuesday, that by foreign prevent check-in carriers that the formalities the economy s $8.2 billion to carriers have a lot of foreign embarrassment will also like remit their earnings to of the country requesting to of missing ights, in cashless as remind all airport users come and operate in the we that all country; not electronically, payments to the Authority our airports are now only â€?FAAN General should now Continued Henrietta be Manager, on page 20 Yakubu said.

Corporate Aairs, done Mrs.

MARITIME SECT OR

GETS BOOS T

Nigeria Loses $5bn Annua Lopsided Bila lly to teral Agreeme nts

Expert: $1.5 bn Boost Nigeria Lekki Deep Seaport Wil ’s Economy l

Eromosele Abi

INTERNATIONAL Pompeo Warns Pyongyang Peace Efforts

2018

BUSINESSW MONEY MARKET OBB OVERNIGHT

Etihad Appoin

ts New GM Etihad Airways, the national has ap i airli f

d

DAY JUNE 15,

2018 Ëž T H I

S D AY

INTERNAT

Still Face ‘Risks’ US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo warnedThursday that peace efforts with North Korea still faced “risks� and insisted that sanctions must be maintained on Pyongyang until it dismantles its nuclear arsenal, Agence France-Presse reported.

Page 45

Pompeo Wa IONAL rns Still Face ‘Ri Pyongyang Peace Eff orts sks’ Nort email:foreigndesk

45

@thisdaylive.com

h Koreans seeTr ump in new light

US Secretary of State warned Thursday Mike Pompeo with North Korea that peace efforts Donald Trump, still faced “risks� and insisted Associated Press.according to The reality that sanctions show the governmen intonations of They be maintained must shaking the on Pyongyang hands with Kim see him has had to it dismantles until perform to keep t famous newscaster, nation’s most elicited giggles its nuclear arsenal, their historic summit Jong Un at people, taught the programme its depicted from North Koreans Agence France-Pres in Singapore, from watching the and even awkwardly hate and distrust childhood to beyond Kim as statesmanlike CHANGE OF programme.

Pompeo made se reported. saluting a his years, confident the “American three-star general.

Before I, formerly known NAME It’s a far cry from imperialists,� ideologically polite, quick to and signing showing Trump and Kim during a regional the remarks the “dotard� and addressed smile and firmly on board their with the tour to brief label as APELEHIN South Korean, in newscaster joint statement, the AJIBOLA IFEBORI, slapped on him their government in their tectonic shifts underway control. He was shown said Trump allowing point now wish to country’s relationship last the older American Chinese officials Japanese and made a Previously, even year. of giving Kim with his seventies, — Trump, in addressed as be known and Donald Trump’s about President day, a look at his on a good Washington. armored Cadillac AKPORUGO is the best he might historic summit With a time lag IFEBORI. All limousine, and A. Kim’s age — more than twice noted with North get was that suggests “Trump.� former documents Korean that it is known to lean in a him to remain valid.

Jong Un in Singapore.leader Kim of respect. No honorifics. No signs great deal of care and thought to Americans shake hands, toward as “the Beast.�

The into the went Now, She or should take note. general public The Trump administrat “the president he’s being called state-runfinal product, the North’s thumbs up, then walking give a called them the also at one point of the United “two supreme a few ion has of steps ahead to television aired drawn criticism I, formerly known States America.â€? a working lunch. and addressed wording of a over the vague J. Trump.â€? Or “President Donald videos and photos of the its first as MRS KWOSAH The programm CHANGE summit statement summit an e on also Thursday AUGUSTINA NDALIAKW OF NAME regarding denuclearis , two awkward moment showed Even “supreme I, formerly and a full day days after the event reaching be known U, now wish to of Trump ation and concerns among and addressed after The post-summ leader.â€? as MISS known and addressed MRS. home to PyongyangKim returned a North out to shake the hand of as ONYIJE it transformati US president’s allies about the of North AUGUSTINA ONYINYECAGABAENW NDALIAKW U. ERE JOY Korean general, , the capital. on decision HI, Korea’s To now be Minister All official version to stop Trump, sure, the star wish to be war games. known and addressed documents former of the show of the People’s Armed Forces of was Kim. who’s now being EKPEH general publicremain valid. The as MRS Kwang Chol, Trump’s first appearance No Washington remained shown by state media should please who instead saluted ONYINYEC All formerJOY note. committed take HI. looking serious and the now famous the American to the “complete, documents remain and almost handshake valid. The general president. Trump didn’t verifiable I, regal, formerly come saluted irreversibleâ€? until almost 20 underscores public and all known necessary denuclearisationand the carefully minutes two the officer in return, and as OLUWADAR and addressed choreographed into the 42-minute programm North Korea, the take note. organisaĆ&#x;ons should then shook hands. of Pompeo said ODEWOLE, now A ADETOMI To the dramatic, e.

In in Seoul after talks with I, formerly wish to be known almost song-like scene, he moved a chair another and addressed with foot instead as OLUWADAR addressed as known and South Korean the Japanese and ADETOMI of his hands. his A foreign ministers.

OLUWAROTIMI EMMANUE L. BAMIDELE Both “We believe former documents All to be knownOGUNGBU YI, now remain valid. understands that Kim Jong Un The general and addressed the OLUWAROTIMI as take note. public should please must do this urgency... that we BAMIDELE quickly,� he DAVID. All said of Italy the effort to I formerly known have and France tried remain valid. former documents MISS UZOECHINA and addressed as abandon its atomic North Korea row The general public should take note. over immigration to patch up a NNEKA FLORA, now wished arsenal.

The two leaders In Beijing, Pompeo on Thursday as Pope Francis confirmed a addressed as to be known and I, formerly said China urged politicians lunch meeting on Friday Conte “reaffirmed MRS CHINWUBA known and NNEKA FLORA. everywher addressed its to discuss Angelawill meet German Chancellor Dostly EaĆ&#x;onal as United Nationscommitmentâ€? to helping e to work together on “new initiativesâ€? on immigratio populaĆ&#x;on commission, OPEYEMI WUMI, Merkel in Berlin IDOWU refugees and sanctions after a day after Italian on Monday. n, public and private parastatals, now wish to be known the foreign Salvini respect Interior has dignity, their vowed to continue ministry suggested Banks and federal Minister to according Matteo Salvini civil service commission DUROJAIY and addressed as earlier this week block announced an Italy summoned to Reuters. should please take note.

TEMILOLU E OPEYEMI WUMI “axis� from foreign humanitarian boats with Germany Security Council that the UN on Italian ports All documents WA. Wednesday and France’s envoy illegal migration.and Austria to fight I, formerly known could consider remain valid.former with how to shareas Europe wrestles general easing the economic demanded an and apology addressed The as public AJIDE PRECIOUS the responsibilit from President should please “France does not punishmen against its Cold note. y take now wish want escalation; of handling migrants trying to be known War-era ally. t Macron, who had Emmanuel it’s counter productive. to enter I, formerly the EU from said Rome’s “We truly believe as ONUORAHand addressed move to block war We need to known and that we have addressed a migrant rescue maintain dialogue,� a countries, largely zones and poor as Miss path forward PRECIOUS UGOCHUKWU. a ship from source AKUH DIVINE after so many BLESSING that can bring years “cynicism its ports was an act of Macron said as the presidentclose to the Middle East. across Africa and documents remainAll former peace,� Pompeo visited the western and irresponsib wish to be knownELEOJO, now valid. The general public Chinese Foreign More than 1.8 told town of Rochefort. ility�.

Macron, should please million migrants Mrs MATTHE and addressed as take note. have arrived Yi before talks Minister Wang Wednesdayin a phone call late on However, the source added in Europe since with President DIVINE. All W BLESSING Macron was that and Italy with Italian Jinping.

I, formerly known Xi Minister former documents not “taking is now sheltering 2014, remain back than Giuseppe Conte,Prime anything�. as KOMOLAFE and addressed more should valid. The general Meanwhile, North 170,000 public please take note.

Italy’s Conte later Koreans are he did not mean to offend said OLAJUMOKE, ANUOLUWAPO as well as an asylum seekers, getting a new said “Italy and the Italian now wish to look at US President I, formerly known known and addressed people�, according he would take to Paris on Facebook unregistered estimated 500,000 be and addressed to a statement. migrants. A European MISS ASENETU as NNADI ANUOLUWAPO as for broad collaboration“Italy’s request Union YAKUBU summit OLAJUMOKE. MUSA, and solidarity All former documents on immigration bloc’s asylum will discuss the addressed now wish to be known and at a European valid. The general remain rules at the end as MRS ASENETU level�. the month. public should of OJOCHE NEMI take note.

Italy and Franc Draw Papal e Try to Patch Up Migr Rebuke ant Row,

All

IBRAHIM

former documents .

I, formerly known remain valid.

The general public and addressed as MISS AGABAENW should please note. take ERE JOY ONYINYECH known and I, now wish to be I, formerly known EKPEH JOY addressed as MRS as OSUNWOK and addressed former ONYINYECHI. E All documents VINCENT AKUBUDIKE now wish to The general public remain valid. be known, should take as OSUNWOKand addressed note.

I, formerly E VINCENT EMEKA. All known and addressed remain valid. former documents as EZIKEOHA MARTINS, should please The general public take note. known andnow wish to be addressed EZIKEOHA MARTINS as CHIGOZIE All form d

I, formerly known as ISAAC IHUOMA

SPORTS Rohr: Eagles physically and mentally ready for Croatia While most Nigerian ball-fans are still pondering on the out come to tomorrow’sWorld Cup group D opener for Super Eagles,Technical Adviser Gernot Rohr, yesterday declared that his team is “physically and mentally ready� for their first match of against Croatia.

Page 53

AY

FRIDAYSPOR TS

53

Group Sports Editor Duro Email duro.ik hazuagbe@th Ikhazuagbe isdaylive.com 0811 181 3083 SMS ONLY JUNE 14 TO JULY 15

WORLD C UP 2018‌

24 Hours to th e Opener Rohr: Eagles

physically and

mentally read

y for Croatia

While most Nigerian are still pondering ball-fans optimism . It will come to tomorrowon the out one, but we are be a tough of the current ’s World Cup group D physically opener for Super and mentally ready. that featured Eagles’ squad Eagles, Technical at the last quality preparato We had in Brazil Adviser Gernot Rohr, four years ago,finals ry matches “It is the dream said: yesterday and trained twice at declared that our footballer of his team is final camp in Austria, “physically to play at every since arriving and World and mentally Cup and we the FIFA in Essentuki readyâ€? for their , live that have to Super first match we have done some of against Croatia. dream on Saturday. useful Croatia Eagles players tactical preparatio in ďŹ nal preparatio is a Rohr, a former n. n for tomorrow’ with a lot of very good team the camp German in “It is important to start international top class players s match against well and we in Austria a good tournamen since and Croatia have coached the defender who and that is what t like this, best against to be at our very base we got to the team became part of the national senior teams of Burkina we camp in Essentuki Soviet Union the year them. hope do to on Saturday, Faso, Niger “This after the end that many times. This Republic and the world mediaâ€? Rohr told toughestgroup is probably the Football Federation also. Our of the Second World in 1994, 1998 was well to get did Kaliningr Tunisia Club Gabon, and top War. The team in the tourname yesterday. and 2014. The The nt; very good us to prepare in specifi ad Stadium was failed to emerge before takingEtoile du Sahel the Super Eagles flew into everyone is calling cally built for Kaliningr from the it the distraction places devoid of ‘group of death’. ad Khrabrov Super Eagles charge of the Airport the 2018 2010.group stage in 2002 FIFA World and That o and Cup finals. insisted that two years ago, Essentukilate yesterday from motivation. We have is the responsibility to now, it is our Tomorrow do the nation his wards are The given no mood to play in the clash , about 48 hours to ourselves the target of coming proud by starting well Nigeria’s sixth will mark missedonly time Nigeria has out second with Croatia against the appearance football’s fiddle at the Kaliningra at the did of this group just like we Croatia,â€? he remarked at FIFA World nd Stadium. 35,000 –capacity Kaliningr in .

Cup finals, showpiece in the last biggest Kaliningrad, “We are looking in seven tourname Stadium. ad group the African qualifying part quarter the forward that everyone to the match nts since –century was in 2006, when of Russia to farthest making her Captain Mikel gave head-to-he with a lot of same the debut the west, bordered by tag. ad rule knocked a at John Obi, one of only Poland and finals in the USA. In the 1994 the Eagles despite out “As our Lithuania four members previous on finishing we workedcoach has said, be known, and used to outings, the Eagles had equal points made it to the Round and hard at both of 16 on three goals to Angola superior assumed its as Konigsberg, occasions – which new name and – the only African was enough to guarantee team to have gone that far qualification in normal situations.

Ambode, Fas Others to Chhola, Dalung, eer Eagles

Energy Gian t, Aiteo, Spon sors Song for Nige ria’s World Cup Hit Theme Campaign

The Executive Governor of Lagos State, Olympic Ambode, asMr.Akinwunmi Nigeria’s Committee and IOC Member, Committee and Managem Aiteo Group, Minister of well as the Enginner and Steel, Works, Power as well Habu Ahmed Gumel, and; the Consul-General ent Optimum Partner the Official channels. of the Nigeria The hit track Raji Fashola Mr. Babatunde highly as a number of other Nigerian Embassy, Nura in the Football Federation had and the Youth –placed Dankadai.

Bello Saturday (NFF), last garnered 7.5 million also great football moments and Sports Minister, social will media premiered to directors in the officials and that The become industry hours impressions barely Solomon applause, an offi Dalung are 24 Super Eagles historic as the They will Sports Ministry. supportEagles will not lack to after release. cial be Government in the Federal on mentally boost theme song in play to According arrival by received the stands the other side of Eagles the Super to Benedict World Cup trophy,� covet the will arrive delegation that Ambassad at the Kaliningra Nigeria’s of Nigeria to go Peters, the he said.

Also speaking for glory Executive Vice d at the to lead the in Russia today Federation or to the Russian Stadium, with members at the launch of the theme of the This isRussia 2018 World Cup. Chairman of Aiteo Super Eaglessupport for the Professor , His Excellency respected Nigeria song, President Global also as they pledged Group, Football donate in tomorrow Supporters Steve clash with Croatia. to of the the Group’s sponsorship Nigeria’s Football Federationof ’s Ugbah; $50,000 Club also Amaju Pinnick, theme song President ofDavies ground. on every unreturneto the team ‘for another Officials is yet f extolled Ait , Nigeri F the d d i fi P l

T H I S D AY ˾ FRIDAY JUNE 15, 2018

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T H I S D AY • FRIDAY, JUNE 15, 2018

COMMENT

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

AVOIDING THE PITFALLS OF JUNE 12

Government should ensure that the new democracy day endures, writes Monday Philips Ekpe

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o, quarter of a century has gone by since the historic June 12, 1993 presidential election. And the proverbial bridge has watched plenty of water that flows under it with reckless speed. Even those who witnessed the conduct of the fairest poll in Nigeria to date and its subsequent abortion by the very government that midwifed it have different opinions about the things that actually transpired. But that is the very nature of history, ancient and modern. People have always approved and sided with narrations that align with their own sense of self importance and security. It helps them mentally, emotionally and socially to stick to the truth, again, as defined and perceived by them.

One should therefore not be surprised by the divergent reactions that greeted President Muhammadu Buhari’s replacement of May 29 with June 12 as the nation’s new and authentic Democracy Day and the bestowal of the highest national honours on the late Chief Moshood Abiola, winner of the race, Ambassador Babagana Kingibe, his running mate, and the late Chief Gani Fawehinmi, arguably the most respected champion of the struggle that followed its cancellation. The voices that praise government’s actions are louder now, not surprisingly. The frenzy in the land occasioned by the renaissance of democratic alliances, both genuine and fake, is palpable. The chorus of progressive forces is deafening in many quarters.

But we have seen this drama before. “MKO is our man o!!!” “We will all die with you….”

My liking for Chief Abiola stemmed mainly from his blind, robust and somewhat wanton generosity. That might have been a major selling point of the Abiola brand, something that worked for him like magic in the last public contest of his eventful life. However, when he made that fateful attempt at self- inauguration on June 11, 1994 in a hall in Epetedo, Lagos, I felt he had probably not read the situation and Nigerian masses well. I recall part of his speech to his loving memory: “Since that abominable act of naked political armed robbery occurred, I have been constantly urged by people of goodwill, both in Nigeria and abroad, to put the matter back into the people’s hands…My hope has always been to persuade them (the thieves) that they should not allow their personal desire to rule to usher our beloved country into an era of political instability and economic ruin… No one can give you power. It is yours. Take it!”

That day, I told anyone who cared to listen about my premonition that after the crowd that surged around him had been dispersed, he would be arrested and jailed and that they would go on with their own lives. I did not see his death in custody coming. My understanding was that one year after his overwhelming endorsement by Nigerians, the music had changed

THIS SAME GOVERNMENT WHICH WANTS TO HEAL OLD WOUNDS MUST DO IT PROPERLY. ABIOLA SHOULD BE REPACKAGED AS A TRUE NIGERIAN PRODUCT, PATRIOT AND LEADER THAT HE WAS

substantially. In refusing to let go of his mandate in exchange for physical freedom, he indeed exhibited true heroism. What happened after his demise, however, should be a lesson for the living. While those who insisted that it was better for him to remain in detention than walk out free were not expected to jump into his grave, they still could have done more for him in his absence. Holding conferences, organising protests and declaring public holidays in their states were good but not enough. Even moderate patronage from just one or two of the states that keep shouting about Abiola’s democratic legacy and credentials could have saved his family and businesses from the coma they are in today. Hypocrisy, treachery and selfishness do manifest in various forms.

Nobody should be in doubt about the significance of majority of Nigerians speaking with one voice through their votes. And the choice of June 12 to mark democracy cannot be seriously faulted, especially with the public acceptance of guilt by the government. We need to guard against some tendencies, though. To begin with, the whole issue was ethnicised and localised too soon way back in 1993 instead of pursuing it to a logical conclusion as a national emergency. After all, a chunk of the votes that gave Abiola the victory came from the north. Unfortunately, mob mentality took the front seat. The conspiracy theory about the northern gang-up to stop power shift to the south gained ascendancy quickly.

Many people failed to remember that the primaries earlier conducted by the National Republican Convention (NRC) and Social Democratic Party (SDP) actually produced two northerners – Alhaji Adamu Ciroma and General Shehu Yar’Adua respectively- as their flag-bearers but were annulled by the same person who eventually thwarted the people’s will in Abiola’s case.

That period gave birth to the doctrine of rotation, sadly. We do not even know yet where the clamour for “our turn to rule” will lead us.

Religion, ethnicity and region – identities that were not consequential considerations 25 years ago - are now entrenched in our polity. The country ought to have explored and tried to understand the factors that enabled Chief MKO to succeed where more intellectually and ideologically qualified persons like the late sage, Chief Obafemi Awolowo, did not. The nation came under pressure to pacify the west for a wrong done to it. The process of shooting ourselves in the foot and doing a disservice to the common verdict of the generality of Nigerians had begun.

This same government which wants to heal old wounds must do it properly. Abiola should be repackaged as a true Nigerian product, patriot and leader that he was. Efforts to recognise June 12 as a rightful symbol of representative government can only live beyond the present political dispensation and expediencies if people from all over the country are made to own it.

INJUSTICE, HUMAN RIGHTS AND NIGERIAN ARMY Ishaq Yusuf argues that the retirement of 38 military officers is illegal

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une 9, 2018 was the second anniversary of the unjust retirement of 38 senior army officers by Generals Tukur Buratai and Mansur Dan-Ali. The act of infamy, presided over a kangaroo sitting of the army council, retired the officers over unfounded and unproven claims of alleged partisanship in the 2015 general elections and alleged involvement in the defence contract scam at the National Security Adviser’s office without granting anyone fair hearing. One of the 38, Lt. Col. BabaOchankpa has since died in his sleep, leaving a widow and three beautiful kids.

In June 2016, Nigerians were informed by the then army spokesman, Brig. Gen. SK Usman that several high-ranking senior officers were compulsorily retired on ‘disciplinary grounds, serious offences’. At the time both the Minister of Defence, Brig. Gen. Dan-Ali and Lt. Gen Buratai, the Chief of Army Staff, corroborated the statement of Usman, alleging further that due process and fair hearing were granted all the 38 officers, implying that they were found guilty. Buratai said: “It took us painstaking procedure to ensure we didn’t pick innocent ones. We started with one inquiry from One Division GOC to the other. After that, we subjected it to legal review. After the legal review, we forwarded our recommendations to higher authorities for consideration. So, it took us time; we have our own process, also our administrative process dovetailing into legal review and so on.”

My interest in this matter was first aroused when I read of the pathetic case of retired Brig. Gen. ASH Saad, in the Daily Trust sometime in December 2016. I was quite disturbed and troubled that we could treat a former director of Military Intelligence with so much disdain and injustice. Upon further enquiries it was revealed that none of the 38 officers was found guilty of an offence, they were never charged, tried or found

guilty, let alone even appear before a court martial. Several of the officers I gathered were oblivious of Buratai’s plot to remove them from service and were busy at work going about their jobs. In fact, he left his own former military assistant in the army chief’s office, Col. DR Hassan, whom he did not find guilty of an offence and went to retire him in a spurious and capricious interpretation of the military law.

Naturally, the innocent officers choose to challenge the illegal retirements in court.

Sadly the speed of our judicial process which is in dire need of reform is so slow that the perpetrators of the Buratai-led act have continued to revel in the illegality. Notwithstanding, several of the officers approached the National Assembly to have their cases heard and the matter reviewed. In October 2017, the Senate Committee on Ethics, Privileges and Public Petitions heard the case of Colonel Chidi Ukoha, one of the retirees and postponed hearing of other cases until the officers withdrew them from the courts.

To the surprise and chagrin of the committee, the director of army legal services, fumbled and wobbled as he went through Ukoha’s personal file and discovered no evidence of any infraction. The legal services director who was shocked at the discovery remarked while trying to justify the unjustifiable that ‘The Army Council is aware of the officer’s case and has forwarded his appeal to the President, for review’. The Senate in one voice resolved that Ukoha should be reinstated and that the army should desist from arbitrary and unjust retirements. Curiously, Buratai has refused to comply with the Senate’s resolution. I am convinced that the Senate has not explored the full ambit of its powers in resolving the injustice meted by Buratai to Ukoha, Hassan and others. The Senate can certainly do more.

For me there are several unanswered questions for Buratai and Dan-Ali. Firstly,

what manner of due process was followed by the supposedly highly professional Nigerian Army that 38 senior officers were retired without being found guilty of an offence? Secondly, when and where were all the officers charged, tried and found guilty? If they were not, is that not an obvious violation of their human rights and the constitution? I would like to see the evidence, dates and times of the court martial sittings! Thirdly, were the officers granted fair hearing? Fourthly, I want to know if the appeals of these officers were ever forwarded to Mr President. Fifthly, how long does it take for the appeals to be reviewed? Did Buratai as army chief and Dan-Ali as Minister of Defence approve the retirements without hearing from the officers?

If this is true, it smacks of unprofessionalism and gross misconduct. If the answer to any of my questions is no, then I am sorry to say, Mr President, Buratai and Dan-Ali have lied to you. I challenge Buratai to provide proof of when these officers were tried and found guilty. It is important to note that no less than 18 of these officers were ever queried, while several of them were not even in the country!

And none, I repeat NONE of the ‘Army 38’ was ever charged, tried or found guilty of an offence.

I dare challenge Mallam Garba Shehu and Mr. Femi Adesina, who continue to deny that the Nigerian Army has not breached the human rights of Nigerians, to provide evidence that the Nigerian Army under Buratai complied with various military laws, the constitution, due process, fair hearing and found any one of these 38 officers guilty.

What baffles me the most is the surprising conspiracy of silence between the defence and army leadership as well as the Presidency on this matter. It appears they are indeed aware of the perverse injustice meted out to these young men and are either supportive of the actions of Buratai or are totally indifferent as to whether the appeals have merit or

otherwise. I ask, why are we so unjust and insincere as a people? Why are Burati and Dan-Ali lying on junior officers? Is this justice?

The president has always lamented his own unjust treatment at the hands of others.

He remarks at every given opportunity how he was prematurely retired and detained for several years. I believe, Mai Gaskiya is a just man, but I cannot understand why he will sanction Buratai’s ill-treatment of younger Nigerian army officers.

A year ago, when I first wrote about this injustice, I noted that President Buhari promised to run a compassionate and honest government. My closing words then were, ‘Mr President is a devout muslim and largely viewed as an honest man. His deputy and now acting President, Prof Osinbajo is a pastor and professor of law. They know the significance of fair hearing and justice in both our religious books, so why won’t they give our officers the respite and justice our laws and constitution provide. It is worthy to note that justice demands condemnation of the wicked and guilty, while by respecting our laws we preserve our common good and the sacrifices of the innocent.

Mr President Sir, the officers and their families cry out for justice, the soul of late Baba-Ochankpa and his family cry out for justice. Why don’t we use our military laws and constitution more as a shield for the innocent rather than a sword of impunity?’

Regrettably, another year has elapsed while Mr President has not attended to the appeals and provide the officers justice. It is evident now beyond any reasonable doubt that the only recourse for the ‘Army 38’ is to obtain justice from the courts. Maybe when the officers have their retirements reversed by the judiciary the government would be embarrassed enough to do the right thing.

‘Justice delayed is injustice delivered’.

Yusuf wrote from Sokoto

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T H I S D AY • FRIDAY, JUNE 15, 2018

EDITORIAL THE END OF RAMADAN Ramadan holds vital lessons for everyone

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he Muslims’ holy month of self-purification and self-denial otherwise known as Ramadan has just ended. While it lasted, the season of fasting and prayer offered all Muslims the opportunity to reflect on their relationship with Allah. It also enabled those with means to empathise with the poor, the needy and the less privileged. For all Muslims, it was an opportunity to rededicate themselves to the teachings of the faith and the cause of mankind as a whole.

However, even though the month-long fasting has now come and gone, its lessons should endure.

As one of the five pillars of Islam, Ramadan has a highly spiritual significance. To devotees, it was a period of self-emptying without which no spiritual being can have a

BY PAYING ATTENTION truly rewarding TO THE PLIGHT OF THE relationship with POOR AS WAS AMPLY his or her maker.

DEMONSTRATED IN THE That explains why COURSE OF RAMADAN, the exercise was WE INVARIABLY PLACE marked in Nigeria (as elsewhere THE WELFARE OF OUR NEIGHBOUR AS IMPORTANT in the world) by private and group AS OURS prayers, and abstinence from all forms of worldly comforts and pleasures. The aim of all of that was to enhance spiritual growth and foster charity and brotherly love.

As the Muslim faithful therefore mark the end of this annual spiritual exercise, it is hoped that the outcome will be of immense benefit to the nation.

Clearly, there has never been a greater need for sharing with the less privileged and the needy of our society than exists now when millions of Nigerians can hardly make ends meet due to the economic situation in the country. By paying attention to the plight of the poor as was amply demonstrated in the course of the Ramadan fasting, we invariably place the welfare of our neighbour as

Letters to the Editor

important as ours. By allowing others to partake of our wealth or material possessions, we honour the One who gave us the wealth in the first place.

This happens to be at the heart of all religions but a virtue hardly imbibed by many in Nigeria today.

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T H I S DAY EDITOR BOLAJI ADEBIYI DEPUTY EDITOR DAVIDSON IRIEKPEN MANAGING DIRECTOR ENIOLA BELLO DEPUTY MANAGING DIRECTOR KAYODE KOMOLAFE CHAIRMAN EDITORIAL BOARD OLUSEGUN ADENIYI EDITOR NATION’S CAPITAL IYOBOSA UWUGIAREN MANAGING EDITOR JOSEPH USHIGIALE

T H I S DAY N E W S PA P E R S L I M I T E D EDITOR-IN-CHIEF/CHAIRMAN NDUKA OBAIGBENA GROUP EXECUTIVE DIRECTORS ENIOLA BELLO, KAYODE KOMOLAFE, ISRAEL IWEGBU, IJEOMA NWOGWUGWU, EMMANUEL EFENI DIVISIONAL DIRECTORS PETER IWEGBU, ANTHONY OGEDENGBE, BOLAJI ADEBIYI DEPUTY DIVISIONAL DIRECTOR OJOGUN VICTOR DANBOYI SNR. ASSOCIATE DIRECTOR ERIC OJEH ASSOCIATE DIRECTORS PATRICK EIMIUHI, SAHEED ADEYEMO CONTROLLERS ABIMBOLA TAIWO, UCHENNA DIBIAGWU, NDUKA MOSERI DIRECTOR, PRINTING PRODUCTION CHUKS ONWUDINJO TO SEND EMAIL: first name.surname@thisdaylive.com

ince the Ramadan fast, like the other four pillars of Islam, was aimed at promoting both the spiritual and material well-being of man, it stands to reason that man is invariably better off doing the will of God than merely pleasing himself. When he is able to rein in the impulse for self-gratification and greedy accumulation of wealth, man is more liable to make his society a better place to live in, not only for himself but also for his neighbour. That for us was one of the most enduring lessons of Ramadan which we hope many would have imbibed.

By paying attention to the plight of the poor as was amply demonstrated in the course of Ramadan, we invariably place the welfare of our neighbour as important as ours. By allowing others to partake of our wealth or material possessions, we honour the One who gave us the wealth in the first place.

It is noteworthy that fasting as a spiritual exercise is advocated by all religions ostensibly with the notion that the man who can make sacrifices in the bid to tame his desires would be a better person both for himself and the larger society. As one expert puts it, besides abstention from food and drink, fasting helps the faithful “from looking at the provocative, from hearing the mischievous, and from uttering the obscene...to avoid slander and from thinking about inflicting injury to others.”

All said, the nation’s leaders, political and otherwise, have much to take from the lessons of Ramadan. If only they can curtail their materialistic tendencies and pay more attention to the yearnings of the people, the country will certainly become a much happier place to live in. We therefore urge our leaders to imbibe the lessons of Ramadan.

To our numerous Muslim audiences we say, Eid Mubarak!

TO OUR READERS Letters in response to specific 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.

DANJUMA AND THE SECURITY CHALLENGES

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n Saturday, March 24, Lt. Gen. T. Y. Danjuma raised tension in the polity when he pointedly accused the military of bias in the prosecution of its operations against security challenges in some parts of the country. Specifically, Danjuma alleged that ethnic cleansing orchestrated by the military was on-going in his home state of Taraba.

There had been clashes between native farmers and herdsmen who settled in some states across the country including Taraba, Benue, Kaduna and Plateau, leading to killings and necessitating the deployment of security forces, especially the army. He had said, “The armed forces are not neutral.

They collude with the armed bandits. They kill people, kill Nigerians. They facilitate their movements, they cover them”.

The retired general went further to ask the people to defend themselves if they did not want to die one by one.

For effect, Danjuma had chosen a strategic forum to vent his feelings: The maiden convocation of Taraba State University. The volatile statement coming from a Nigerian of the retired stature was not the type to be taken lightly. Danjuma had operated at the highest level of the military and government. He was the chief of the army staff under the Obasanjo military administration and the defence minister in a civilian government. So whatever he says on any issue in the polity has to be taken seriously. The nation was aghast. It was not only a call to arms but also a call to anarchy.

Then, a question inevitably arose. The general, so influential,

has access to the people in power. So, if his concerns were being ventilated in good faith, why were they not shared in confidence with the military high command or government itself, rather than going public with those concerns and in a manner that amounted to inciting the people? The military high command did the needful by probing Dajuma’s allegations. On April 9, the authorities announced a panel to do the job.

Inaugurating the panel, the Chief of the Army Staff, Gen. Tukur Buratai, said: “Statement of this nature (from Danjuma) could damage the reputation of the armed forces of Nigeria and thus cannot be ignored if the Nigerian Army is to continue to earn the trust of the populace”. He charged the panel, headed by John Nimyel, a retired major general, to do a thorough job.

The panel has since concluded its investigation and, in its report, said the allegations of bias and ethnic cleansing levelled against the military and, by extension, the federal government

by Danjuma were unfounded. The dust raised by the former minister of defence had yet to settle when, last weekend, a report alleged that Danjuma had taken his campaign against the Buhari administration beyond the shores of Nigeria. The report alleged that he had led Taraba State governor, Darius Ishaku, and others in meetings with policy think-tank members of the Trump administration and influential lawmakers in the United States (US) on herdsmen killings in Nigeria.

The development has, because of its implications for the moves to end the security challenges faced by Nigeria, expectedly, raised

red flags in government and the nation’s security circle. The security challenges, including the insurgency in the North-East and local farmers/herdsmen clashes, predate this administration but the Buhari government has left no one in doubt that it is determined to restore security to all parts of the nation. The latest gain in the peace restoration mission is the decision of the US government to sell several Tucano fighter jets to Nigeria, a step that is expected to help significantly in the battle against insurgency. Regrettably, however, if the report is true that Danjuma is out there, alongside the Taraba governor, continuing his campaign of ethnic cleansing in the country which has now been found to be unfounded, the fighter jets’ deal with the US government could be a casualty. Make no mistake about it; the deal could be threatened because the US is one country that values human rights which the allegations border on. The former minister is one of the very few high profile Nigerians the people still hold in high esteem not only because they have occupied sensitive roles in the nation but also because history has been kind to them. It was said in some quarters that then-Obasanjo military administration may have been unable to carry through the transition process without the cooperation of Danjuma. My take is that the general, having contributed so much to the process to build a democratic Nigeria, should not be in the vanguard of the campaign to throw spanner in the works of the deal with the US to surmount the security challenges facing Nigeria.

Terfa Jimoh, Jos, Plateau State

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Group Politics Editor NSEOBONG OKON-EKONG

POLITICS

Email: nseobong.okonekong@thisdaylive.com 08114495324 SMS ONLY

TRENDING NEWS

The Swinging Axe Claims Some Victims Nseobong Okon-Ekong, Segun James and Shola Oyeyipo write that the recent conviction of two former governors who are members of the ruling APC may cause anxiety to their counterparts on trial for similar allegations

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he significance of the day would continue to reverberate across Nigeria for different reasons; especially with the recent reparation pronounced by President Muhammadu Buhari on the historic epoch, June 12. For Senator Joshua Dariye, a former governor of Plateau State, June 12 now represents the day his world fell apart.

Looking intently at Justice Adebukola Banjoko of the Federal High Court, Abuja as she pronounced him guilty and committed him to prison for 14 years, Dariye could not contain his emotions. He wept bitterly.

Two weeks earlier, Justice Banjoko delivered a similar judgment in a related matter in which a former governor of Taraba State, Jolly Nyame was jailed for 14 years for misappropriating state funds.

Dariye, a serving senator representing Plateau Central Senatorial District, was accused of embezzling N1.162 billion ecological funds belonging to his state.

After the judgment, Dariye cried and pleaded for clemency but his time was up.

He was charged to court by the anti-graft agency, Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, EFCC, in 2010.

The truism that the rich also cry may have succinctly described the situation in the court as Dariye was driven to the prison to serve time.

The trial and subsequent conviction of Dariye and his former counterpart from Taraba State is a great political coup for the government of President Muhammadu Buhari whose major campaign promise was the fight against corruption. He is driven by his famous statement that, “if we do not kill corruption, corruption will kill us.�

By appointing Justice Banjoko as Chairman of the Code of Conduct Tribunal (CCT) barely 24 hours after convicting the two ex-governors, the federal government appears to have sent a signal to the judiciary that it is willing to reward exemplary professionalism, while many former governors who are on trial for corruption have,

Dariye

understandably, become jittery as the reality of a possible prison sentence stares them in the face.

The judgment by Banjoko is the first conviction of high profile politicians in the current political dispensation in the country. Many Nigerians see her as bold and daring.

However, the speed with which she was appointed the chairman of the CCT by the government has cast blight on the conviction. There are many implications of the conviction of the former governors and Banjoko’s appointment.

The vociferous clamour for conviction of high profile politicians on trial has been loud and strong. Many of the cases have been dragging on for as long as 10 years; leading to a growing believe in the populace that it was a deliberate ploy to buy time and later let the accused persons off the hook. On the other hand, there exists

a school of thought that cast aspersion on the effort of the anti-graft agency to bring indicted politicians to book as a calculated witch-hunt against politicians from the opposition parties.

The accusation of witch-hunt of opposition politicians by the EFCC seems to have been watered down with the conviction of Nyame and Dariye who are of the APC; and incidentally from the north.

Their Christian background may also be a weighty consideration in a country that is often sharply divided along ethnic and religious lines.

A senior lawyer who pleaded anonymity on the evolving political scenario said that another conviction is not likely to be made before the 2019 general elections.

He said that the speed with which Banjoko was transferred to the CCT, where the President of Senate, Dr. Bukola Saraki is being tried suggests that she is being positioned for the kill in the case of the senate president.

A media aide of the Senate President, however, dismissed the insinuation arising from Banjoko’s appointment. He affirmed that the appointment of the chairman of the CCT has a constitutional guarantee and is a tenured position. He disclosed that appointing a new chairman required, at least, two-third majority of the Senate.

The trial of Dariye began eight years ago under the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) government of Dr. Goodluck Jonathan.

But the case was stalled by litigations which went all the way to the Supreme Court which later ordered that the case be returned to the High Court for trial.

The Verdict “In the absence of concrete evidence justifying these payments, it can safely be described as misappropriation,� said Justice Banjoko, who found Dariye guilty of 15 out of the 23-count charge against him.

Dariye was convicted for two main

categories of offences, namely criminal breach of trust which attracts a two-year sentence for each affected count and criminal misappropriation which has a penalty of 14 years.

The sentences are to run concurrently which means he will spend a maximum 14 years in jail.

Shortly before the verdict was read, Dariye’s lawyer, Paul Erokoro, SAN, described his client’s actions as the product of ignorance. Erokoro blamed the system and the banks for the actions of his client.

According to Erokoro, Mr. Dariye, who is a chartered accountant, was misguided when he approached the banks for financial assistance.

Responding, Mr. Rotimi Jacobs, SAN, drew the attention of the court to the many years of legal battle embarked upon by the defendant. As he was speaking, Dariye suddenly stood up and asked the prosecution lawyer to be merciful. “Be merciful. You are a Christian. Your name is Jacob,� he said The judge noted the efforts of Erokoro, but added that “there should not be compromise in corruption. Corruption is corruption.�

After the judgment, Dariye was led into a police van from where he was transported to Kuje Prison-his new residence for the next 14 years unless an appeal court rules otherwise.

Dariye came to international attention when he skipped bail in the UK in September, 2004 following his arrest on moneylaundering charges.

Twice he was sacked as governor and twice he returned to reclaim his position, earning him the nickname “the cat with nine lives.�

But it appears Mr. Dariye may have finally run out of luck, as a Nigerian court has sent him to jail following charges of corruption and money laundering.

FORMER GOVERNORS ON TRIAL FOR CORRUPTION SENATOR JONAH JANG (PDP)

IBRAHIM SHEMA (PDP)

The EFCC preferred a 12-count charge of fraud against Senator Jonah Jang, a former governor of Plateau State. He is the Senator representing Plateau North in the National Assembly.

Former Katsina State governor, Ibrahim Shema, is standing trial before the Federal High Court sitting in Katsina on a 26-count charge for money laundering.

Case Commenced on February 7, 2017

Case Commenced on Monday, May 7, 2017 Allegation Misappropriation of over N6.3 billion two months to the end of his tenure as governor in 2015

Allegation Misappropriating the sum of N11 billion belonging to the State/Local Government Joint Account during his tenure between 2007 and 2015. He is standing trial before the Federal High Court sitting in Katsina on a 26-count charge of money laundering.

Present Status Case in progress

RASHIDI LADOJA (PDP)

ORJU UZOR KALU (APC)

Former Oyo State governor, Alhaji Rashidi Ladoja is facing money laundering charge to the tune of N4.7 billion in a Federal High Court in Lagos alongside his former Commissioner for Finance, Waheed Akanbi.

Former governor of Abia State, Chief Orji Uzor Kalu was accused of diverting N3.2 billion. He is facing an amended 39-count charge bordering on fraud along with his former Commissioner for Finance, Ude Udeogo, who is the second accused.

Case Commenced Court resumed trial on October 9, 2017

Case Commenced on October 31, 2016 Allegation Among other issues brought against him, the EFCC alleged that he had in different bank accounts about N2.5 billion belonging to Abia State and diverted about N3.2 billion from the coffers of the government thereby contravening sections 15(6), 16, and 21 of the Money Laundering (Prohibition) Act, 2005 and the

Present Status The Katsina State High Court has fixed July 9 and 10 for ruling

Money Laundering Act of 1995 (as amended

by Act No.9 of 2002 and Section 477 of the Criminal Code Act, Laws of the Federation, 1990.

Allegation Conspiracy to steal from the treasury of the state government while he was governor. He was accused of converting the state’s funds for personal use through fraudulent methods, in contravention of sections 17(a) and 18(1) of the Money Laundering (Prohibition) Act, 2004 and is liable to be punished under sections 14(1), 16(a) (b) and 18(2) of the same Act.

Present Status Case in progress

18

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POLITICS MURTALA NYAKO (PDP)

SULE LAMIDO (PDP)

Former Adamawa State governor, Murtala Nyako is standing trial before Justice Okon Abang of the Federal High Court, sitting in Maitama, Abuja for a N29 billion fraud.

Former Governor of Jigawa State, Sule Lamido, his two sons – Aminu Sule Lamido and Mustapha Sule Lamido as well as Aminu Wada Abubakar and Batholomew Darlington Agoha are standing trial before Justice Adeniyi Ademola of the Federal High Court, Abuja on a 27-count amended charge bordering on corruption and money laundering.

Allegation Nyako is being prosecuted alongside his son, Senator Abdul-Aziz Nyako, Abubakar Aliyu and Zulkifikk Abba on a 37-count charge of criminal conspiracy, stealing, abuse of office and money laundering preferred against them by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, EFCC.

Case Commenced on July 9, 2015 Allegation Misappropriating of funds belonging to Jigawa State

Present Status Case in progress

ADEBAYO ALAO-AKALA (APC) Former Oyo State Governor, Adebayo AlaoAkala, is also facing trial over N11.5 billion fraud case filed against him by the EFCC along side his co-defendants, Hosea Ayoola Agboola and Femi Babalola, who are both members of the PDP in Oyo State

GABRIEL SUSWAM

Following a petition to the EFCC by the Benue State Attorney-General and Commissioner for Justice, Mr. Micheal Gusah against former Benue State governor, Gabriel Suswam, he is presently facing an alleged N3.1billion fraud before a Federal High Court in Abuja

The ‘Yes’ Today, ‘No’ Tomorrow Inspector General Of Police Section 22 (4) of the Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Act and Section 1 (18) of the Advanced Fee Fraud Act. Present Status Before the Supreme Court arraignment Case not yet commenced Allegation Misappropriation of N664.3 million belonging to the state

AHMED RUFAI SANI (PDP)

Allegation Suswam and many of his appointees including civil servants that held key positions in his administration allegedly engaged in dubious expenditures running into billions of naira. He is being asked to refund of over N44billion

The Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC) appealed against the judgment of Justice Bello Mohammed Tukur of Zamfara State High Court sitting in Gusau, who gave a no-case ruling in the case against former governor of Zamfara State, Ahmed Rufai Sani, in an on-going case of alleged diversion of public funds.

He was charged alongside Hashim Dikko, Development Management Limited and Had Nigeria Limited

Present Status Case in progress

Case Commenced on

Case Commenced March 2016

MUKHTAR RAMALAN YERO (PDP)

The former governor of Kaduna State, Mukhtar Ramalan Yero, was dragged before a Federal High Court sitting in Kaduna for corruption on a 4-count charge bordering on money laundering, criminal conspiracy, misappropriation of public fund, and breach of trust.

Case Commenced on May 31, 2018 Allegation He is in court over his involvement in the disbursement of N750 million used by the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) during the 2015 election campaign and making financial transaction involving the sum of N700 million without passing through a financial institution thereby committing an offence contrary to sections 15(2)(d) of the Money Laundering (prohibition) Act, 2012 (as amended) and punishable under section 15 (30 of the same Act. Present Status Case in progress

SAIDU DAKINGARI (APC)

Though he has been elusive, ICPC has been making frantic effort to arraign former Governor of Kebbi, Alhaji Saidu Dakingari for misappropriation of N664.3 million belonging to the state.

ICPC spokesperson, Mrs. Rasheedat Okoduwa said Dakingari would be arraigned at the Kebbi State High Court in Birnin Kebbi but was silent on the date and time of

funds – Blue Opal Limited, Sebore Farms and Extension Limited, Pagoda Fortunes Limited, Tower Assets Management Limited and Crust Energy Limited, were equally charged before the court as the 5th to 9th defendants.

AUTOGRAPH ĂŒĂŁ Ă?Ă?Ă™ĂŒĂ™Ă˜Ă‘ Ă•Ă™Ă˜Ě‹ Ă•Ă™Ă˜Ă‘

Case Commenced on October 11, 2011 Allegation Alao-Akala allegedly awarded a road contract worth N8.5bn between 2007 and 2009 to Pentagon Engineering Services without budgetary provision, ordered the supply of drilling machines on behalf of the 33 local governments in the state to the tune of N3.5bn, conspired to withdraw N2.9bn from Oyo State Local Government Joint Account, illegally acquired some property on Old Bodija Road, off Rotimi Williams Road, when he was the governor thereby contravening

Present Status Case in Progress on February 26, 2018, court admitted in evidence, documents tendered by the prosecution. Five companies that allegedly served as conduit for the illegal diversion of the

Jan 21, 2016 Allegation

Diversion of public funds Present Status

ICPC appeal the on-going case against Justice Tukur’s ruling that did not favour the anti-graft body in a no-case submission entered by the former governor

MAHMUD SHINKAFI (APC) Former governor of Zamfara State, Mahmud Shinkafi, alongside former Minister of State, Finance, Bashir Yuguda, Aminu Nahuche, and Ibrahim Malaha, are standing trial before Justice Fatima Murtala of the Federal High Court sitting in Zamfara on a five-count charge of conspiracy and money laundering in a case brought against them by EFCC.

Case Commenced on

May 28, 2018 Allegation

That they conspired to receive a cash payment of N450 million, part of the $115 million that was allegedly distributed by a former Minister of Petroleum Resources, Diezani Allison-Madueke, for the purpose of influencing the outcome of the 2015 general election among other things.

Present Status

The suspects were granted bail in the sum of N5 million each and two sureties in like sum. The case has been adjourned to June 27 and 28 for the commencement of trial

An open ridicule of the serving Inspector General of Police, Mr. Etim Inyang by the military dictator, Ibrahim Babangida at an Armed Forces Ruling Council meeting in 1986 signposted a grim era of insecurity in the nation. Babangida reportedly asked Inyang, “My friend, where is Anini?� A taunt that apparently hastened the capture of the dreaded armed robber, Lawrence Anini who terrorized Benin City and environs. The derision of Inyang has the character of the self-inflicted controversies courted by the current Inspector General of Police, Ibrahim Kpotun Idris, who was only two years into his career as a policeman when Anini unleashed a four-month reign of terror.

The urgency with which Babangida conveyed the need to rid the country of the Anini nuisance must have made a lasting impression on Idris who was 27 years (when he became a policeman) and still wet behind the ears. On becoming the Inspector General of Police 30 years later, he awaits the kind of insulting, ‘my friend, where is Anini?’ remark from President Muhammadu Buhari that would make him look stupid.

A mimicry in the manner of the Babangida mockery of Inyang may be what Idris needs to boost his confidence to go after killer herdsmen in the middle belt. Idris may not be obliged to comply if the Commanderin-Chief is absent-minded and only jolted to momentary recall when there is a public outcry.

A graduate of Agriculture who has since added a degree in Law to his resume, the Inspector General of Police harbours concealed loathing of farmers which is the reason he distanced himself as much as possible from cultivation. Every farmer should join the police force; failing which they should spare no effort to arm themselves.

Farmers are lazy and unimaginative, if they had half the intelligence they are credited with, their farming tools-hoes, machetes and the like are capable of inflicting lethal blows. So, why do they need the police when they have enough in their arsenal to wade off attacks and defend themselves?

Handicapped with just 370. 000 men and officers to cover over 923,000 square kilometres of Nigerian territory populated by close to 200 million people, there are more very important persons to worry over than farmers.

Idris could never be a doctor. And he has a strong aversion for doctors like Senate President, Dr. Bukola Saraki who take a liking to farmers and political thugs. He can’t stand a person who is skilled in the science of medicine and opens his arms to welcome obnoxious farmers who were thrown out of Zimbabwe. Why would he want to fraternise with him and his colleagues, especially if there are Distinguished gentlemen like Senator Ahmad Sani Yerima in their assembly who love the warmth of teenage girls. That would only serve to remind the IGP of a misdemeanor he tried in vain to hide from the public. He would not help them to achieve their purpose at ‘a deliberate blackmail, witch-hunt and mischievous’ by obeying their summons.

IGP Idris may also be reminded of his violation of the letter and the spirit of The Police Code in the manner he contracted his marriage to Amina Asta, whose meteoric rise in the Nigeria Police is allegedly linked to IGP Idris, her husband. Why should

anyone accuse the Inspector General of Police of favouritism when a countless number of officers have also benefited from Idris’ supposed altruistic disposition?

As the 19th Nigerian-born IGP since the Nigerian Police was formed in 1930, Idris’ transgressions may not be as putrid as former IGP Tafa Balogun who former President Olusegun Obasanjo pointedly humiliated in public in the most demeaning manner. It may even be better to be tagged an ‘enemy of democracy’ who is ‘unfit to hold any public office within and outside Nigeria’ (as the Nigerian Senate view Idris) than to come before a committee of haters with long knives. What chance does a cockroach stand in a court presided by a hen? Idris has continued to insist that the lawmakers are bent on colouring him bad.

His enduring tenure as IGP began on a topsy-turvy note against his predecessor, Solomon Arase. The latter had issued several administrative queries to Idris; so when the tables turned and Idris became IGP, he sought to take his pound of flesh off Arase. It was an unprecedented dirty fight that dragged the famed esprit de corps in the mud. From then, Idris has staggered and stuttered in the public space in a manner unbecoming of one who previously commanded the Police Mobile Force (the so-called punching arm of the police).

Idris’ tendency to prevaricate began with a seemingly innocuous order to withdraw police personnel from VIPs. It was an unsolicited directive that announced his clumsiness. One day the personnel were ordered to report back to base immediately.

A little while after, the instruction was kept in abeyance.

Perhaps, the most infamous wobble of the Idris era is the scandalous Kano speech episode in which he appeared to be challenged reading his own prepared text. This is a man who should be on the farm as a graduate of Agriculture, if he had stuck to his original calling. Even as a lawyer, he could have remained behind the curtain of the law profession as a company secretary.

And that would have covered his apparent inadequacies. All along in his policing career, Idris climbed the ladder of the Police hierarchy as a matter of organisational convenience until he got to the top where he is alone, out in the cold.

IGP Idris

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BUSINESSWORLD R A T E S MONEY MARKET OBB OVERNIGHT

A S

A T

REPO 4.83 % 5.33%

CALL 1-MONTH 3-MONTH

4.13% 8.25 % 8.50 %

Group Business Editor Obinna Chima Email obinna.chima@thisdaylive.com 08024557078, 08091152219

J U N E 8 , 2 0 1 8 S & P INDEX INDEX LEVEL 1-DAY MONTH-TO-DATE

357.18 % - 0.20% -0.23%

S & P INDEX 1/4 TO DATE YEAR TO DATE

3.23% 8.41%

EXCHANGE RATE N305.95/1US DOLLAR* *AS AT LAST FRIDAY

Quick Takes Chicago Joins Ethiopia Network

MARITIME SECTOR GETS BOOST

R-L: Executive Director, Marine and Operations, Nigerian Ports Authority (NPA), Dr. Sokonte Davies; Managing Director, NPA, Hadiza BalaUsman; Managing Director of STARZ Investment Company Limited, Gregory Ogbeifun; and the Port Manager, Onne Port, Alhassan Ismaila, during the official inauguration of MV Osanyamo in Onne, Rivers State‌recently

Nigeria Loses $5bn Annually to Lopsided Bilateral Agreements Chinedu Eze Nigeria loses over $5 billion annually in the aviation industry which includes about $2 billion repatriated per annum by foreign airlines and unserviced Bilateral Air Service Agreement (BASA).

This unfortunate incident occurs because the country does not have major airlines to reciprocate flight services to countries whose airlines operate in Nigeria.

The Director General of the Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA), Captain Muhtar Usman, who disclosed this, told THISDAY in an exclusive interview on Tuesday, that

AVIATION such huge amount of loss was because Nigeria does not have major airlines to take advantage of the huge opportunities in the aviation market.

The market has a very high potential and is expected to double in the next 10 years.

Usman said the key take advantage of the market was to establish a national carrier and also grow two or more major airlines to benefit from the market, which the International Air Transport Association (IATA) said contributes $8.2 billion to the economy of the country

and supports over 650, 800 jobs including tourism-related employment.

The Director General noted that a national carrier would enable the country reclaim its position in a market it had lost to foreign airlines, adding that with government support to other airlines in the country; Nigeria would multiply its earnings from the aviation sector. “Let me say clearly that the potential that is existing in the aviation industry and the market share in Nigeria, as far as aviation is concerned is huge. It is enormous. That is why we have a lot of foreign carriers requesting to come and operate in the country; not only

from one point but from several points because of the potential that is available. “We have not been able to meet the need of the market.

We have lost a lot and we have been losing a lot by not taking advantage of those bilateral air service agreements because we don’t have strong, viable carriers that will be able to effectively compete with foreign airlines,�

Usman said.

The Director General stressed that Nigeria loses a lot of foreign exchange in the aviation sector through capital flight by foreign carriers that remit their earnings

A maritime expert and professor at the Lagos Business School, Frank Ojadi, has called on the federal government to ensure perfect operations of deep seaports in the country, particularly the Lekki Deep Seaport in Lagos, which is expected to kick off in the next two years.

Ojadi, who spoke on the imperatives of deep seaports in Nigeria (A case study of Lekki Deep Seaport), during a training programme for journalists in Lagos, described the $1.5 billion project as a noble idea, which would significantly boost the economy of the country.

He stated that deep seaport was essential because good nautical access was essential for maritime connectivity of ports.

Ojadi noted that deep seaports would create opportunities for transhipment

MARITIME operations, generate more employment, promote local shipping business and boost trade in the country.

He said some of the factors expected to be properly shaped for efficient delivery by the seaport include a well-articulated road and rail network and utilisation of inland waterways for efficient evacuation of cargoes that would be imported through the facility. “Over the last decades, ships have rapidly become bigger and deeper. For example, the draft of the largest container ships at this moment is approximately 14.5 meters, which is deeper than what most ports can accommodate. “Port depth thus becomes a competitive advantage for attracting the largest ships and a challenge for many ports that

are estuary and have no direct deep sea access,� he said.

Specifically, he said, Panamax vessels make a direct port and discharge, and the bulk of their cargoes are delivered at a particular port while importers will have to move them to other destinations through feeder vessels, thereby the need for transhipment.

The maritime expert, however, urged the federal and state governments to begin to think of good road and rail networks as well as inland navigation to Lekki, considering the huge traffic that would be created by the deep seaport and Dangote Refinery, among the other major projects cited in that area.

He expressed worries that the Senate Committee on Ports Harbours and Waterways and the Nigerian Shippers’ Council have earlier identified this issue, but nothing concrete has been done.

Airports Ready for Sallah Celebration

The Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN) has assured all airport users that all the airports under its management across the country would be fully ready to receive arriving and departing passengers during the Eid-El-Mubarak celebration. “In line with our core mandate of ensuring seamless facilitation of air travellers, FAAN has put in place all necessary facilities and infrastructure to ensure safe passage and a delightful experience at all airports in Nigeria. “We advise all our esteemed passengers and airport users to always get to the airports early enough as we envisage a surge in traďŹƒc. “This will enable them to complete their check-in formalities in good time and prevent the embarrassment of missing ights, we will also like to remind all airport users that our airports are now cashless as all payments to the Authority should now be done electronically,â€?FAAN General Manager, Corporate Aairs, Mrs. Henrietta Yakubu said.

Continued on page 20

Expert: $1.5bn Lekki Deep Seaport Will Boost Nigeria’s Economy Eromosele Abiodun

Ethiopian Airlines has commenced services to Chicago. This is just as the Ethiopian Airlines has deployed one of its Boeing 787 aircraft to the route. “Chicago will be our fourth destination in the U.S. and our 7th in the Americas. It is the third biggest city in the U.S. and one of the most important global aviation hubs. “We will be ďŹ lling a critical air connectivity vacuum as our ights will be the only direct service between Chicago and Africa. Chicago is the main hub of our Star Alliance partner; United Airlines and the ight will be operated together with United to avail the best product for travellers from all over the U.S. connecting to 58 destinations in Africa. “The ight will further boost the growing economic and people-topeople relations between the U.S. and Africa in general and Ethiopia in particular by enabling greater ow of trade, investment and tourism,â€? the Group Chief Executive OďŹƒcer of Ethiopian Airlines, Mr. Tewolde GebreMariam said.

Ethiopian Airlines (Ethiopian) is the fastest growing Airline in Africa.

In its seventy plus years of operation, Ethiopian has become one of the continent’s leading carriers, unrivalled in eďŹƒciency and operational success. Ethiopian commands the lion’s share of the pan-African passenger and cargo network operating the youngest and most modern eet to more than 110 international passenger and cargo destinations across ďŹ ve continents.

Ethiopian eet includes ultra-modern and environmentally friendly aircraft such as Airbus A350, Boeing 787-8, Boeing 787-9, Boeing 777-300ER, Boeing 777-200LR, Boeing 777-200 Freighter, Bombardier Q-400 double cabin with an average eet age of ďŹ ve years.

Chicago is the airline’s fourth destination in the U.S. and the seventh in the Americas.

Ojadi said the government has to do proper planning to guarantee the viability of the many deep seaports springing up within the country.

Also speaking on the economic prospects of deep sea ports in the country, Chief Executive Officer, Ships and Ports Communications, Mr. Bolaji Akinola, said the multi-billion dollar projects cited in the Lekki Free Zone corridor may face access challenges if plans for road and rail infrastructure to evacuate products from the refinery and seaport were not immediately begun.

According to him, “the record year for containers in Nigeria was 2014, with throughput of 1.6 million TEUs. That has been the highest so far in the history of this country. Since then we have had a plunge, but I see this Continued on page 20

Etihad Appoints New GM

Etihad Airways, the national airline of the United Arab Emirates, has appointed Ailende Okoromu as its new General Manager for Nigeria. The airline said Okoromu returns to his native Nigeria from Tanzania where he has been the Country Manager. He will oversee all commercial activity in the Nigerian market.

Since joining Etihad Airways in 2012, Okoromu held the post of Nigeria Sales Manager before moving to assume the CM role in Tanzania. He has considerable experience and knowledge of the African aviation industry, serving business and corporate customers.

Etihad Airways launched in Nigeria in 2012 and ies seven times a week between Lagos and Abu Dhabi.

Etihad Aviation Group (EAG) is a diversiďŹ ed global aviation and travel group comprising ďŹ ve business divisions – Etihad Airways, the national airline of the United Arab Emirates, Etihad Airways Engineering, Etihad Airport Services, Hala Group and Airline Equity Partners.The group has minority investments in six airlines: airberlin, Air Serbia, Air Seychelles, Alitalia, Jet Airways and Virgin Australia.

“ Our major duty is to promote civil aviation activities and ensure equal opportunities for all operators�

Director General, the Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA)

Captain Muhtar Usman

20

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BUSINESSWORLD NIGERIA LOSES $5BN ANNUALLY TO LOPSIDED BILATERAL AGREEMENTS from sales overseas. “We also lose, not just the foreign exchange that would have been flowing in; we are losing the little that we have through capital flight. Having a national carrier and several major flag carriers would have provided jobs in the sector and solved the growing unemployment problem in the industry. “Government has been encouraging the private sector to come in and there shouldn’t be any fear at all from the operators. This is because the market is big.

It is big enough for all the players,� Usman added.

Travel expert and the organiser of Akwaaba African Travel Market, Ikechi Uko told THISDAY that for a population of over 190 million people and the number of travellers in the country, Nigeria needs at least two strong carriers on international routes for the nation’s economy to continue to grow.

He noted that international flight is denominated in dollars, so these airlines would be bringing in foreign exchange, which would be retained in Nigeria, adding that these airlines must not be government owned or designated as national carrier.

EXPERT: $1.5BN LEKKI DEEP SEAPORT WILL NIGERIA’S ECONOMY economy is rebounding.�

Noting that the Lagos ports terminals could handle 1.69 million TEUs conveniently with their current capacity at about two million TEUs, he said that deep seaport was welcome and very futuristic, adding that timely resolution of the infrastructure problems was necessary.

The federal government had recently pledged its total support to the management of Lekki Port LFTZ Enterprise towards the actualisation of the $1.5billion Lekki Deep Sea Port project. President Muhammadu Buhari made the commitment at the flag-off of the project in Ibeju-Lekki, Lagos.

Group Business Editor

Obinna Chima

Capital Market Editor

NEWS

NCS, FOU Enhance Operational Modalities to End Smuggling Eromosele Abiodun The Controller of the Federal Operations Unit, Comptroller Mohammed Uba has stated that the unit has re-strategised its operational modalities in order to ensure full implementation of the federal government’s policy banning the importation of rice through land borders.

As part of the measures, he said the unit had beamed its searchlight at the Creek, waterside, and at various locations in South-west zone, “hence the reason for the massive rice seizure within the period under review.�

Uba stated this in a chat with journalists to review the unit’s giant stride in its anti-smuggling activities.

Having reinvigorated its antismuggling operations between May 16 and June 12, 2018, he said the unit intercepted various contraband, goods and vehicles on detention with a duty paid value (DPV) of N1.34 billion “Similarly, the unit, through its interventions recovered N59.50 million from underpayments making a cumulative of N1.40 billion within the weeks under review. The detained/seized items include: 15 Exotic vehicles including: three Toyota C-HR (2018 models); One Toyota Camry LE (2018); One Toyota Prado (2018); One Toyota Hilux

(2017); One Ford F150 (2017); One Pajero Jeep (2017); One Mercedes Benz (2017) among others. Other seizures were 9,049 bags of foreign parboiled rice (15trailers), 1,464 cartons of frozen poultry products, 870 jerrycans of vegetable oil, 273 bales of used clothing, 592 pieces of used tyres, among others. “Also, four containers with no: PCIU850134/9, PCIU8278544, FCIU983753 and TGHU6924330have

been seized for false declaration. While two of the containers were carrying 8,633 pieces of empty cylinders as against plumbing materials declared in their SGD, the other two carried 120 bales of new jeans as against punching machine declared in the SGD. A total of 12 suspects were arrested in connection to these 112 seizures, “he said.

The FOU, he added, would continue to make

sure smugglers within its areas of jurisdiction count their losses until they repent from sabotaging our economy. “As you already know, smuggling is a global phenomenon that cannot be eradicated entirely but if all hands are on deck it will be reduced to its barest minimum. Let me commend our officers who have put their lives on the line making these seizures, most especially the 15 trailers load of rice knowing full well

it’s a big battle at the creek and bush parts. Their resilience and doggedness is highly commendable. “This feat couldn’t have been possible without the logistics support of the Comptroller-General of Customs, Col. Hameed Ibrahim Ali (rtd.) and the entire management, as well as you the media for your partnership in sensitizing and educating the general public on the evil of smuggling to the nation’s economy, “he said.

REWARDING CUSTOMER LOYALTY

L-R: Group Head, Consumer Liability, First City Monument Bank (FCMB), Mr. Shamsideen Fashola; Regional Head, Lagos, Mr. Oliver Opara; winner in FCMB Millionaire Promo Season 5 in Lagos Region, Mrs. Oluwatoyin Mourence; Regional Retail Head, Lagos & Southwest of the bank, Funmilola Paseda, and Manager, Ikorodu Branch, Mr. Kayode Adetola, during the cheque presentation ceremony to the winner in Lagos‌

Lagos Partners NANTA on Tourism The Lagos state government has indicated interest in partnering with the National Association of Nigeria Travel Agencies (NANTA) to deepen the development of tourism.

In line with this development, the state government assured that it would as matter of urgency, initiate visible partnership platforms that will enthrone effective utilisation of NANTA’s local and international reach and experience in marketing Lagos as Africa’s must visited destination.

Commissioner of Tourism, Lagos state, Steve Ayorinde who made the remarks during a visit to NANTA President,

Mr Bankole Bernard recently, noted that NANTA’s efforts to check quacks and interlopers who masquerade as travel agents is commendable.

He said this had shown that the association was determined to have enabling regulatory act to guard its membership and an industry identification card to check intruders, noting that these are signs of a serious and well focused association which deserves support and encouragement from any serious tourism facilitator or state. “In the many associations in tourism industry NANTA to me stands out and we are

going to encourage and work with NANTA to build and create a new Lagos tourism. “Indeed, we were once on course in this direction but the relationship nosedived but am happy today that we are back on the same page,� Ayorinde said.

Earlier in his welcome address, the NANTA President, called on the commissioner to aggressively rebrand Lagos and push ahead creative ideas that would stand out Lagos as the most populous destination in Africa with concrete marketing offices in New York, Johannesburg, London and Dubai.

Bernard advised the state

to let tourism benefit the rural people of Lagos, adding that NANTA strategic national spread can help boost both national and international exposure of Lagos tourism products and offerings. “We appreciate all the infrastructural drive of Lagos governor to better Lagos tourism tomorrow, particularly in having an agency solely devoted to the promotion of Lagos tourism products but again we caution that all inputs must be evaluated to avoid the pitfalls associated with past efforts in this quest�, he added.

Bernard congratulated the

commissioner for his noticeable and well intentioned efforts to change the narrative of Lagos tourism since he came into office few months ago and urged him to keep the fire burning, adding “the presentation of the Lagos master plan, the new tourism promotion agency and even the frontline partnership with the federal government to organise a very successful 61st UNWTO conference are critical inputs that show that you have the ears and support of the governor to push Lagos tourism into the consciousness of local and international visitors and investors.

NIMASA Charges ILO to Consider Geopolitical Peculiarities in Reviewing Labour Convention

Goddy Egene

AgriBusiness/Industry Editor

Ă™Ă˜Ă‹ĂžĂ’Ă‹Ă˜ äĂ?

Comms/e-Business Editor

Emma Okonji

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

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

Eromosele Abiodun The Director General of the Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency (NIMASA) Dr. Dakuku Peterside has stressed the importance of human factors to successful shipping, stating that it is one of the most important elements in achieving competitive edge and safety in the maritime industry.

Peterside stated this while addressing participants at the Business AFRICA meeting at the ongoing 107th session of the International Labour Organisation (ILO) Confer-

ence in Geneva, Switzerland where consideration for the review of Maritime Labour Convention (MLC) 2006 would be made.

He noted that the industry must partner workers to develop a strategy that will contribute to the constant development of Human Resources in the sector said that investment in workforce is a sure way to guarantee success of firms and boost profitability.

According to him, “employees are the most critical factor that determines the success of a firm, this is even truer

in the Maritime industry that is capital intensive and where safety is paramount so constant training and development as well as welfare of workforce must be taken seriously.�

He further urged African businessmen to pay great attention to welfare of workers in order to be able to compete favourably in the international market adding that the maritime industry in particular could play greater role in the economic growth of third world countries if the right investment is

made in the sector.

He commended the International Labour Organisation for the review of Maritime Labour Convention (MLC) 2006 and also advised that considerations should be given to peculiarities of the different geopolitical areas of the world in the amendments, adding however that after 10 years, the MLC 2006 ought to be reviewed to meet the challenges of emerging trends.

The MLC is an International Labour Organisation convention established in 2006 as the fourth pillar

of international maritime law and embodies all upto-date standards of existing international maritime labour conventions and recommendations, as well as the fundamental principles to be found in other international labour Conventions.

The convention entered into force on 20 August 2013, one year after registering 30 ratifications of countries representing over 33 per cent of the world gross tonnage of ships. As of August 2017, the convention has been ratified by 84 states representing over 89 per cent of global shipping.

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BUSINESSWORLD

NEWS

SAA Supports Exhibition As part of activities to mark the 20-year anniversary of successful operations in Nigeria, and in fulfillment of the airline’s corporate social responsibility, South African Airways has announced that it would be sponsoring five travel-related emerging brands to showcase their business at the NewBrandsXPO holding at thein Lagos from June 29-30, 2018.

The NewBrandsXPO is a one-stop shop for organisations seeking to launch new products and services in-market. Exhibitors will cut across different sectors including travel, financial services, IT & Telecom, consumer electronics & kitchenware, FMCG, health & wellness, personal care, apparel & fashion accessories, food & drinks, and many others.

Commenting on the gesture, Regional Manager, West, North and Central Africa, South African Airways, Ohis Ehimiaghe, said, “For two decades, South African Airways has been providing world-class air transport services to Nigerian travellers.

We are, indeed, very grateful to our esteemed guests for their patronage and to the Nigerian aviation authorities for their support.� “As a mark of our appreciation and commitment to the growth of the industry, we will be sponsoring five emerging travel-related businesses to participate at the NewBrandsXPO 2018.

We identify with the vision of the organisers, which is to provide an ideal space for exhibitors and visitors to nurture the trust and confidence necessary for the realisation of business

goals, and we believe that the selected companies will benefit greatly from the experience.�

On eligibility and selection criteria, the co-promoter of NewBrandsXPO, noted, Olanrewaju Samson said, “To be considered for one of the five free exhibition slots at the South African Airways pavilion, duly registered travel product or service companies that have been in operation for not more than three years, and have online presence, can send an application on or before 8th June 2018 introducing their business.�

NewBrandsXPO is promoted by Heventin, a corporate event and brands Activation Company, and Uburu, an integrated marketing communications consultancy.

AIR WATCH Fear over National Carrier

Demuren to Speak on Aircraft Maintenance at LAAC Seminar A former Director-General of the Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA), Dr Harold Demuren has indicated readiness to present a paper on the forthcoming seminar on aviation organised by the League of Airport and Aviation Correspondents (LAAC).

Demuren who is to present a paper on ‘Maintenance, Repair and Overhaul (MRO) Financing Option for Nigeria’ said his paper would dwell on available opportunities for the country.

Demuren in a telephone conversation with the Seminar Committee stated that he was already working on his paper to be presented at the seminar.

He said: “I am already working on my paper to be presented at the LAAC’s

seminar. I can assure that the paper would be ready before the date.�

Apart from Demuren, major personalities in the global aviation industry have also indicated their willingness to participate in the seminar, which is scheduled to hold on Thursday, July 19, 2018 at the Sheraton Hotels and Suites. Already, Mr. Nick Fadugba, a former Secretary General, African Airlines Association (AFRAA) and presently Chairman, African Business Aviation Association (AfBAA) had indicated his preparedness to present a paper at the seminar.

Also Mr. Ayo Obilana, an International Civil Aviation Organisation (ICAO) certified security personnel has also confirmed participation while Mr. Babatunde Irukera, the Director-General

of Consumer Protection Council (CPC) is also expected to present a speech.

Mr. Allen Onyema, Chairman of Air Peace would be the Chairman of the event. Other papers to be presented at the seminar included: ‘Funding Perspectives of Aviation Security in Nigeria, ‘Federal/State Government Partnership in Air Navigational Development and ‘Partnerships as Key to Survival of Local Airlines’ among others.

The theme for the seminar is: ‘Financing Aviation Development Through Private Sector Partnerships.

Demuren is an aeronautical engineer with over four decades of experience in the aviation industry. As the Director-General of NCAA, he was responsible for the current reform in the Nigerian aviation sector.

Ghana Tourism Authority to Host Fair The Ghana Tourism Authority (GTA) will be hosting delegates for this year’s Accra Weizo Fair which will be held from 22nd – 23rd June, 2018 at La Palm Royale Beach Hotel.

This was confirmed at a media briefing addressed by the CEO of GTA Mr. Akwesi Agyeman and Mr. Ikechi Uko of Akwaaba African Travel Market at the Office of GTA. The authority will host the delegates to a three-day familiarisation tour of Ghana from June, 19 to 21, 2018.

Delegates for the Fair will be coming from eight nations in East, West and Southern Africa.

The delegates will take a tour of the Greater Accra, Eastern and Volta Regions of Ghana. The tour programme drawn for them is in tandem with the Authority’s domestic tourism campaign of “EAT, FEEL, SEE and WEAR GHANA�.

Experiences during the tour will include quad bik-

ing, boat cruises, kayaking, bon fire, tropical rain forest trail, night life, etc. In the Greater Accra region, the delegates will tour the Shai Hills Resource Reserve on 19th June, 2018.

The reserve has a varied package of wildlife, archaeological sites, caves and granite hills. They will experience activities such as nature walk (hiking), gaming, bird watching, exploration of caves, etc.

In the Volta Region, the delegation will visit the Amedzofe Eco-Tourism Community and Tafi Atome Monkey Sanctuary. They will have dinner at Chances Hotel and enjoy nightlife.

Delegates will arrive in the Eastern Region on 20th June, 2018 to take a tour of the Akosombo Dam Site, after which they will have lunch at Royal Senchi Resort. They will then enjoy a boat cruise on the Volta Lake. Dinner will be served at Afrikiko Resort and enjoy the serene

relaxing atmosphere as part of the nightlife. The delegates will return to Accra on 21st June, 2018 to participate in the Women in Tourism Summit.

Accra Weizo is one of the events geared towards getting West Africans to cooperate amongst themselves. The event aims at creating a seamless travel environment in West Africa as it brings together travel professionals. As Accra is listed by the International Congress and Convention Association (ICCA) as the Top Conference Destination in West Africa, it reinforces its position as the Meetings Incentives Conventions and Exhibitions (MICE) capital of West Africa. Major tourism events have been hosted in Ghana in the last one year which includes the World Tourism Forum Africa and the UNWTO training for West Africa.

Sirika

Many operators of Nigerian airlines are apprehensive about the national carrier, which the federal government wants to float by December this year.

Since 2016 when the Muhammadu Buhari administration muted the idea of establishing a national airline, it has received barrage of criticism from these investors who are obviously apprehensive about their investment when an airline with government input and support would start competing with theirs.

Industry analysts say the fear may not be unfounded because there is no guarantee that government would provide level playing ground for both the airlines owned by these entrepreneurs and the one that would be established by the federal government, despite the promises of equal opportunities.

That fear became exacerbated when these operators noticed that aviation agencies’ chief operating officers have been included in the committee that would spearhead the actualisation of the new national airline. This has given rise to the question: after giving this new airline a head start, wont these government agencies also give it undue privileges at the expense of already existing airlines owned by private investors?

This fear is not unfounded, considering the history of national airlines in the world and in Africa. They are usually given privileges by government, which would not want the airline to fail. President of Airport Council International (ACI) World, Angela Gittens noted in a recent interview with THISDAY that “typically the national carrier is very inefficient because of the government subsidy and so it is more subject to governmental types of economics and not the market� so government tends to curb competition in order to allow the national airline to thrive.

Recently Airline Operators of Nigeria (AON) in a press conference expressed its apprehension about the national carrier and alleged that the federal government was using taxpayers’ money to fund the proposed national carrier that is supposed to be private sector driven, noting that with government commitment to the national carrier, it is evident that it would not give all airlines equal operating environment.

The Chairman of Nigeria’s largest carrier, Air Peace, Allen Onyema said that what the airlines want is a guarantee of a level playing ground from the government, exemption of airlines from paying Value Added Tax (VAT) and noted that if equal opportunities are given to all airlines in a competitive market he supports the national carrier. “I support the national carrier because it will create jobs. Creation of jobs for our teeming

youths is very important to me and that is the reason why I went into airline business. “But government must have to guarantee that it will give equal opportunities to all operators.

It is understandable why airline operators are worried. This is a capital intensive business and after investing hugely you would want to know what will happen to that business,�

Onyema said.

THISDAY spoke to the Director General of the Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA), Captain Muhtar Usman who noted that Nigeria is losing a lot in foreign exchange and in many other ways because it does not have a national carrier.

Usman said Nigeria is yet to benefit from the Bilateral Air Service Agreement (BASA) it signed with many countries because it does not have a national carrier or strong airlines that would take advantage of these agreements and provide corresponding international flight services with the foreign airlines that operate into Nigeria.

The NCAA Director General said that this would have earned Nigeria multibillion naira in foreign exchange, adding that the Nigerian market is big with huge potential in which Nigeria with its current aviation market is not privileged to fully exploit. “We have lost a lot and we have been losing a lot by not taking advantage of those bilateral air service agreements because we don’t have strong, viable carriers that will be able to effectively compete with foreign airlines,� Usman said.

On the fears of the airlines over national carrier and the role being played by aviation CEO in the establishment of the national airline, Usman allayed the fears of AON and said that the purpose of the committee is to guide the activities of national carrier project to ensure that everything follows the standard and recommended practices as enshrined in the Nigerian civil aviation regulations and the International Civil Aviation Organisation (ICAO). “The civil aviation authority is first to promote civil aviation activities in Nigeria.

We give every operator equal opportunity. We have been providing and we will continue to provide that service irrespective of whether it is a national carrier or the airline is owned by private entrepreneur; as long as they are in line with the AOC given to them. We will continue to provide such service,� the Director General said.

He added that when the Nigeria Airways Limited was operating, there were other airlines operating alongside the national carrier like Okada Air, Kabo Air, ADC and they were all doing well and operating profitably.

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Jarana: Nigerian RouteVery Important to Us The new Chief Executive Officer of South Africa Airways, Vuyani Jarana said flight operation to Nigeria is very critical to the airline. He disclosed how the continent’s major carrier is currently restructuring to become profitable and financially independent. Jarana spoke to journalists recently and Chinedu Eze who was there brings the excerpts: How adequate are the funds provided for you to restructure the airline?

In August last year, the commercial banks had stopped providing credit to South Africa Airways (SAA), notwithstanding the government’s guarantee, largely because they think there has to be a plan to turn the airline around.

They wanted to know that there is a date in the future when the airline will be able to pay and be profitable. In that context, one of the critical things is dealing with working capital management. If you don’t have access to credit facility, invariably, you have to share the capital cost to support your business until you get the right construct where you can start having access to credit.

Since I joined the airline in November, 2018, the big area of focus for us was for us to work with lenders and get them interested in SAA, get them to expand loans and we managed to get them to do that by November, within my first month. What was important was to get them interested in continuing to invest in SAA as partners. We have had to rework the strategy, rework the plan, complete the corporate plan and present it to the shareholders. They are quite comfortable that our partners in the plan are not overly ambitious but are quite pragmatic and focused.

SAA will get funding that is going to support the company from January, the beginning of the year till September or October. So, this is supporting working capital requirement and that is the investment the government is putting in as a shareholder. Part of it is to continue to support working capital programme until September or October, 2018.

What we have done is to set up a joint committee with government; with the Equity Finance Minister and that committee is focused on finalising the capital structure, including the funding mechanisms for the airline. So, the committee, by September must have done its work and finished, then we can start dealing with funding. So, in terms of our plan moving forward, is that today we have 9.2 billion Rand of debts that are historic. The historic debts need to be addressed as part of the capital structure. We have also indicated clearly that the turnaround plan in 2021, where SAA will break even and start delivering results, needs a working capital funding of about 12.5billion Rand over the next three years, so that is the working capital funding, keeping in mind that we want to grow revenues as well as take out costs.

So, turning around the airline is almost a 24 to 36 months work programme that you need to do in that process and you are starting to get the alignment of both revenue and cost.

The five billion Rand that was issued is part of the plan but effectively what we need is to address the 9.2 billion Rand and the 12.5 billion Rand going forward. So, we a combined figure of 21.7 billion Rand.

This is what will take SAA moving forward, keeping in mind that it is premised on a case where we are saying that no company is debt free. The lenders have said to us that they want a plan to profitability, which we have put in place. Secondly, they have said that they want a plan to debt reduction. Which means the current debt profile of SAA is a bit high, so we need to address it and that is what we are working on. This is very clear plan. We have started taking decisions in terms of executing them.

So, many people also say SAA had put up many strategies and what is going to be different now?

The difference now is that we are executing our plans. We have created a change hub, which is a nerve centre for execution. There are milestones, step by step. We have optimised the revenues; we are taking out costs and talking about restructuring. This is where we are now.

South Africa Airways buoys South Africa tourism. In monetary terms, what is the contribution of the airline to the development of tourism in the country?

There are number of drivers for economic value addition for SAA, not only in South Africa but proudly in the continent because by far for many decades, we have facilitated the intra-Africa travel by far and strengthened the economies through bi-lateral trade, bringing about ease of travel. We know there are still lots of work that the continent must do in terms of air travel because some of the travel between African countries, still go through outside the continent. The thinking within government is that even though SAA plays a critical role in promoting tourism, it ought to have economic value addition, that has to be done in a profitable context and I think we can’t fault that thinking because we can deliver both.

To the extent that there will be developmental mandate that may not fit a commercial enterprise, that could be dealt with as an isolated matter but I don’t think the challenge SAA faces today can be solely ascribed to developing that mandate, I think we could achieve both profitability as well as making sure we still promote tourism.

Part of the things South Africa needs to look at is the alignment of the state aviation policy to make sure that it is balanced and begin to promote the local travel market and also promote intra-Africa travel market.

Jarana

We talk about the fit for growth plan. Fitness of growth means strengthening your base so that you can build capacity to grow and that is what is top in mind for us.

This year marks 20 years of South Africa Airways operation into Nigeria.

How proďŹ table is the Nigerian route to the operations of the airline?

The Nigerian route is very important to us as it gives us good load factors, we have got consistent services, and we have the right mix of profile of customers in terms of business class and economy class. So, it is one of the profitable routes that we have in SAA that is why we want to continue to support it and grow it and make sure we improve the customer experience in the route to be able to defend our market position. We do have market leadership in Nigeria, therefore we need to protect it and make sure we listen more to customers and making sure that our partners continue to support us. So, this is one of the routes that we have to maintain and grow.

In speciďŹ c terms, what changes are you bringing in to ensure the airline return to the era of proďŹ t?

If you look at the restructuring, it is about four issues. First, you have to look at the balance sheet restructuring, the funding structure of SAA, getting the right construct of capital structure. Secondly, you have to look at the network and the market aspect of the business, making sure we serve the right market with the appropriate tools, so that there is no mismatch in the way you address the market, otherwise you make losses. We have partners which give us different types to portfolios and tools to actually address the market.

We have to also look at the ratios, it is about costs, about taking out costs, you need to look at productivity ratios, weather its pilot or all of us, and we have to look at everything.

Most importantly is how we simplify the organisational processes, we need to bring a lot more simplicity in building a strong

commercial organisation that will be focusing on profitability as well as customer experience.

So, the five key things are customer experience, balance sheet restructuring, revenue management in terms of the network design as well as how we address the market. This is a fit for growth commercial organisation, while we continue to hold on to our safety records. In each of these areas, there are work streams that are focusing on making sure we do the right things, and that being managed through the change hub.

So, we are not leaving this to chance. We watch this every week.

In this turnaround plan, how many aircrafts will you be acquiring?

We have built a plan based on the current fleet profile. We are also aware that it is unthinkable that we will stay as we are into the future. But of course, to do this, you need to apply a lot of science and analysis. So, we are busy doing the analysis of the network, which talks to a fleet strategy that we are going to unleash. That analysis will come out in about September. That will tell us what kind of fleet profile we should have, bearing in mind that you have to reengineer the strategy, as we need to do something differently. That will be communicated in the second half of the year.

We need to fly aircraft, more than what we are flying today, which is a good thing. We will share the future plan once we have a sense of what the possibilities are.

Are there plans to return to Abuja route which was suspended few years back and how many frequencies will you be operating on this route, if you eventually return?

What we did was to suspend operations in Abuja in the gauge of the aircraft that we are using. We are bringing in our franchise partners in the same way that we are bringing them in the central African routes to be able to address this with the right products and the right economics.

So, that piece of work is being done. It is between two authorities to approve the start off the route.

So, it is in our agenda to support that through our partners, in terms of the franchise.

Describe the West African market in the eyes of SAA? SAA is a catalyst to economic development.

SAA facilitates trade, tourism and investment in the different economies. What we have decided to do is to look at how we are able to serve other West African market by our operations.

Before the restriction, we were on-line to about nine countries in West Africa and Central Africa, starting all the way from the Democratic Republic of Congo, to Senegal, Dakar, Abidjan, Accra, Cotonou, Brazzaville, Kinshasa, Lagos and so on. We used to be on-line to most of these cities but because of the restructuring and the fact that some of the routes were not entirely profitable, we are not able to sustain them. With the restructuring, we have had to strategise on the central Africa and have pulled away from Brazzaville, Cotonou and Duala for now.

Once we are able to get the right type of equipment to service these markets, we will go into it. We have also consolidated on our operations by trying to make the ease of travel better for the West African travellers.

So, we are partnering with regional carriers like Africa World Airlines to be able to feed our operations either in Lagos or Accra. So, we are strengthening our operations in Accra.

We have flights originating from Accra to Washington and that has proven to be a very sustainable operation. We also have flights originating out of Dakar to Washington as well.

We have a lot of expansion plan for Dakar (Senegal), Accra (Ghana) and Nigeria. Once this comes into fusion, we will let you know.

SAA will like to ease travel in West Africa because it is very difficult to travel within West Africa. We cannot do it on our own because of the location of our hub but we will do it by partnering with local and regional carriers to be able to do that. We have effectively done it in Accra and it is working well for us. We are not leaving Nigeria behind, we have a lot of plans for Nigeria and we will start implementing the plans for Nigeria soon. Nigeria is key. A population of almost 180 million people is not a market that you joke around with and we have seen it in operations between Lagos and Johannesburg to our South African and continental networks, that it is a very good and viable market.

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Bello: NTC Will Revolutionalise Nigeria’s Economy Executive Secretary, Nigerian Shippers’ Council, Hassan Bello in this interview with Eromosele Abiodun speaks on how the National Transport Commission will enhance the country’s foreign exchange earnings as well as support its diversification drive, when it becomes operational. He also talked about how the NSC is curbing the excesses of foreign shipping companies I will like to start by asking you to give a brief summary of your experience in your first term as the Executive Secretary of the Nigerian Shippers’ Council and your plans going forward.

My first term experience was quite exciting, but honestly, it was challenging. In the first four years, the NSC was grappling with both internal and external structural changes. We have been appointed as port economic regulator and this was thrown to the industry rather late. It should have been at the beginning, however, we struggled to get first recognition by the industry, which I think we got grudgingly. There were no rules and regulations and eight years after, the NSC appeared with the whistle in its hands and introduced rules and regulations.

Naturally, there would be the initial teething problems of recognition. It was a difficult journey, but overall, we superintended very well and, in the end, we did not only get recognition, but respect.

But then the chaos at the port was also a daunting problem, everybody was doing what they wanted to do. There was nobody to supervise.

The port environment was not controlled, even though the port reforms were very good, there were threats of turning back the gains of the port reforms because there was nobody to look at first the efficiency of these ports, the competition amongst intra and inter terminals, the ease of doing business and the cost of doing business. The challenges first came when we rolled out our regulatory order to stop some arbitrary charges that was making Nigeria ports very costly. As a matter of fact, it was the most expensive port in the West African region, if not the world. We said there cannot be arbitrary charges, even if you want to charge, discuss with the NSC. This is what we did, but it resulted to court cases. Unfortunately, we negotiated with both the shipping companies and the terminal operators. The court has interpreted it recognising our regulatory power and declared the charges illegal.

So, we started negotiating and went to court, we are back at the table negotiating.

So, we should not have gone through that journey of court, but that was challenging for us. But I think that inch by inch, we are making ourselves relevant. We are trying to bring a new port order, we have done so by prescribing the operating procedure for every agency at the port and we are trying to enforce that.

We have come out with the port complaint portal. It is electronic and when we started, we thought we could have an office at the port. This was approved by the landlords, but somehow it was not possible and we said we don’t need to be at the port just like any other agency to exercise our regulatory functions. We have a web-based complaint portal where every person can lodge a complaint, give a commentary or advice. The portal can also allow an individual track the progress of the complaint, and then escalate these complaints to the appropriate agency and we will have feedback. This has made our work easier and we have got cooperation.

We are working very seriously with the shipping companies. We are about to come to an agreement and sign a memorandum of understanding (MoU) which will have tremendous impact on the way we do business in Nigeria especially in terms of cost and competition. We need our agencies to compete in healthy way against each other so that the customer becomes king.

We want our ports to be efficient so that we capture goods from our competitors.

modern and the country modern too. The way trucks are parked in villages and towns is really not a good site. Therefore, we need to correct that.

Bello

We need efficient ports with linkages with the hinterland. We need deep sea ports instead of the river ports that we have in Apapa and Tincan. We need a new vista so that large ships can call to our ports. We need to have clearance procedures that are automated so that people can clear their goods within 48hours. We want our ports to work 24 hours daily like the airports.

We want to attract cargo and bigger ships so that Nigeria can be a centre or a hub, that is the function of the NSC. Determined to ensure that the Inland Dry Ports (IDP) and Truck Transit Parks (TTPs) flag-off operations as soon as possible, you approached investors and financial institutions to show interest in the modern transport infrastructure schemes. What has been the response so far?

Part of our regulatory function is to coordinate investment in the transport industry.

We need to have more than infrastructure.

We have a large deficit of infrastructure especially transport infrastructure. But I don’t see it as anything daunting, we need to upgrade our infrastructure and create new ones for efficiency. This is why we came up with the concept of dry ports or truck Transit Parks. These dry ports are located in five places and two are ongoing.

Unfortunately, we could not have all of them come up, because they have already been concessioned to the private sector. The misconception is that the NSC is building port, which is not correct. It is the private sector, because the NSC has recognised the potency of the private sector in driving the economy. Nigeria’s government has paucity of funds and budgetary constraints.

But you align yourself and partner the private sector, then you see the sharing and apportionment of risks.

This has proved to be an international arrangement that will bring development.

The first thing for the dry port is to bring shipping to the door steps of people in the hinterland. Nigeria is so blessed with vast hinterland.

We have 925 Square Kilometers with

about 200 million people. Therefore, there must be inland connection. There must be integration. The Nigerian government is very much focused on the rail sector and the dry port is supported by the rail. Now, if we do that, we are making it easy for our people to import or export. We are di-congesting the sea port and transferring the economy of the sea port to the hinterlands.

Whatever happens in Lagos could happen in Kaduna. In Kaduna for example, some freight forwarders have already moved in there to get an office, so that is an example of inclusiveness. These ports are ports of destination and origin.

You can consign your cargo from any in the world to Kaduna, the bill of lading would be read, and the cargo will be examined.

It is important that we have Truck Transit Parks, instead of delivery of goods by trucks, which delays and degrades the environment and causing much accident. It is good to have off the road facility which is modern so that we can house these trucks, they can have showers, hostels and hotels. They can also have conveniences and supermarkets.

They would have garages for the repair of their spare parts and gas stations. Now, these have attracted a lot of investments in the transit park and we are about completing the issue of procurement. Soon we will go to work to have expression of interest and people can come and bid for it especially in Enugu and Lokoja. These are the two pioneers of truck transit parks.

We are working with ICRC and the Ministry of Work so that there will be some synergy between these organisations.

An important element is the employment structure of these parks, we expect them to employ a lot of people because if you have restaurant, you will see a lot indirect employment, such as garages, clinics and others. This park is not only for trucks, it is also for the public. The luxury buses could have their terminals, and they could be warehouses. It is a modern way and it is going to be technology driven and payment is by chips. In the long run, we are adding value and making our infrastructure

President Buhari recently inaugurated one of your inland dry ports, can you tell us what is happening there right now and are you happy with the level of activity over there?

I am happy with what is happening, even though we have challenges. First, let me say that the Kaduna dry port is a custom port. Therefore, one can consign goods there and pay the cost of duty. Other agencies such as National Agency for Food Drugs Administration Control (NAFDAC) are also trying to get there. Freight forwarders have already started moving there. There are levels of operation of the dry port in Kaduna. First of all, customs have trained the operators of the dry port in Kaduna, which is ICNL Limited on their pricing system and also, they are trying to integrate it on the pricing system. Custom have issued station code to Kaduna, making it one of the ports of destinations and origin.

The Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) has provided a form ‘M’ that Kaduna is also a port which is also a significant achievement. The Nigeria Ports Authority (NPA), the terminals operators and the shipping companies are aware and they are making arrangements to start issuing bill of lading.

Now, the operators, ICNL is also going to open an office in China and United Kingdom. So that they can canvass for goods to come, our only snag is the Nigeria Railway Corporation (NRC) and they are working very hard to see that this thing is done.

They have given us one locomotive and 20 wagon for exclusive usage of Kaduna dry port. But I think the NRC is having small snag with their manufacturers. But very soon the wagons will be allocated. So many things are going on with Kaduna.

Cargo throughputs has increased, trucks are using the amenities. This is very good. The dry port has recorded increase in export of ginger, five to 10 containers weekly and that is by trucks from Kaduna. So, this is the diversification we are still talking about.

Now, we are still talking with NEXIM so that this dry port will be centre of export, which means we are going to have more amenities such as refrigerated warehouses for pressure of top agricultural produce. We also intend to set up a cluster of industries for packaging and processing of agricultural produce. So that we can put value on these exports before they leave. So, you would see that around Kaduna and the port, many industries will spring up and spread. You would also see that a port economy has been transferred to Kaduna. We are almost completing Jos and it is 75 per cent ready.

Duncan Enterprises are the ones it was concessioned to in Jos. We are talking with the NRC so that the rail siding will go in. The importance of Jos is that it is situated very proximate to the airport and you could use this airport especially because of the vast potential of Plateau State especially in potatoes, bananas and others. If you go to Europe, you find a lot of bananas coming from South Africa, they are found in retail shops in Europe.

They get these products from KwaZuluNatal mostly, which is 13 hours by air to Europe. I think from Jos it is six hours to central Europe so you see the competitive advantage that Jos has. When we do that, you will see that a lot of people will be employed, and you will see the impact.

But in all what we do, the private sector is very important.

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BELLO: NTC WILL REVOLUTIONALISE NIGERIA’S ECONOMY The TTP project is a modern transport infrastructure which aim is to ensure safety and security in the movement of goods from one destination to another.

In what way will its success enhance the contribution of the transportation sector’s contribution to the country’s GDP? For the TPP, we look at the employment content and the revenue local, state and the federal government will all have revenue from it.

The investors will also make their profit.

We are going to give a lease for 35 to 40 years for investors. Anybody coming to Nigeria when they see our trucks parked like that they may be discouraged from investing. But when they see us in very stylish and productive way, that will be an incentive for them to come. So, the TPP has got extremely important lenders and investors. We have had many meetings with them. The state governments have been very helpful. They have given NSC land in Enugu, Lokoja and Sokoto because we are thinking of TPP in Layla along the Niger Republic border, which is what is also very important, and we are going to do that in many places. In Ogun state for example, there has been a tremendous interest. It is also the same in Oyo State.

The truck transit park is a possibility and the moment we have that, our life is structured and our life is modern. Then there will be seamless transport system.

The thrust of the National Transport Commission Bill is economic regulation.

This is also the main thrust of the NSC Act. For example, section 6 (1) (b) (C) and (H) of the NTC bill and section 3 of the NSC act 2004 have similarities of function. Why then is the NTC important?

The NTC has been passed by both Houses of the National Assembly. But there is a harmonisation committee of the two Houses working on it. But I think they finished working recently. Therefore, the bill will be brought to the two Houses for them to see if it was done well and if it represented various input and after that it will be signed. The reason for the similarities is historic: The NSC was setup in 1978 to be a regulator of the industry from the beginning.

The reason why it may not be emphasised is that government was handling all the transport issues such as the NPOs and other issues. If you look at section 2 of the NSC Act, it states that, “the function of the council is to liaise with appropriate arms of the government of the federation and other organisations in accessing stability and adequacy of existing services and make appropriate commendation on their behalf.�

We are also to see to matters of structure of freight rates, availability and adequacy of shipping space, frequency of sailing, terms of shipment, class and quality of vessels, ports charges and facilities, and other related matters.

Now, this is regulatory, we are also to consider coastal charges, inland water ways transport and generally relating to transport of goods. This gives us our regulatory functions primarily from beginning. It was a latent regulation, we were the same government, and the private sector was not there.

The issue is to enhance what shippers’ council does when the private sector stepped in. This was what happened when we were given the role of internal regulator.

Therefore, there are similarities between the Shippers’ Council Act and the NTC Act, a lot of similarities.

This was why we said you cannot reinvent the wheel and we are happy that the both houses have resolved to make the council the nucleus of the NTC. The main objective of the NTC Bill is to provide efficient economic regulatory framework for the transport sector, mechanism for monitoring compliance of government agencies, transport services providers, users and

in place to put them in check?

As an economic regulator, we have taken measures, you will notice some charges coming up to change what could be described as indecent practice. We have tried to curb those things. The shipping companies have to be ethical in the discharge of their duties.

Here and there, something will crop up.

For example, there are some terminals where it is wonderful to visit to see what is happening and there are those that are eyesore. For instance, they keep containers to attract demurrage and this is what we frown against because the port is not a storage place. Why we were doing that, the importers also allowed their cargos to dwell at the port because to them, it is cheaper than getting warehouse outside. We were the ones that introduced progressive storage charges because they will abandon their cargo there and it will bring congestion.

In fact, cargo should not stay at the port for one hour, it should be on transit. So, you see there are both sides to a lot of things and the NSC is the umpire who coordinates everything. We have a view of what is happening in the port at any time and also, it is important that we talk to those shipping companies.

We have recently sealed one or two of them. What is more annoying is that they are doing what we banned them from doing. These are the black sheep among the shipping companies, majority of them have structure and system.

Bello

regulate the transport industry. This to my understanding will expand the scope. How prepared are you for this huge challenge?

We have been doing that even when we didn’t have express powers to do so and now we have the powers. We are really prepared. The council has the most trained staff in the industry. We have raised our capacity in regulatory issues especially in auditing of ports, auditing to see the efficiency of ports in terms of pricing and tariff mechanism. But you know the NTC is multi-sectoral, it covers all the ports, the roads, the rail and others. This is huge.

What we do is to get the competence. This is why all the other agencies - Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency (NIMASA), NPA, and Nigeria Customs Service (NCS), all will have a stake in the NTC. The idea is to court people who are relevant in regulation and build capacity towards that. But automation is the ultimate thing. We are building the NSC council to be a paperless organisation. We are going digital and we are in the process of doing that to ensure that we are knowledgeable in the way the ports operate and the economy because that is the ultimate thing. If the bill is signed today, we are ready to take off and we will be able to discharge our responsibilities.

Despite efforts to curtail the excesses of foreign shipping companies, they still do not have regard for rules and regulations. For example, they have refused to set aside holding bays for their empty containers. What are you doing in this regard?

The rules and regulations were not spelled out in the NTC. It is not a ‘we’ versus ‘them’

However, we still have cumbersome clearing procedures which should not be the case. We should be automated so that people can clear their cargoes from the port without going there. There are so many things we have to do

thing. It is our duty also to protect the shipping companies and terminal operators because they are working in what could be described as an unhealthy and tough climate. Look at the roads issue for example, no matter how efficient a terminal is, how can they convey cargoes outside a shipping company when the infrastructure is not good. Government has been inconsistent for some time. I always argue that the case of Roro terminals that were lured to come and set up in Nigeria, only to have the policy of importation of cars that was enforced later and it affected their businesses. That meant they cannot fulfil their obligations in the concession agreement. So we look for the operators because the terminal and the shipping companies have changed the way we do business in Nigeria. In shipping, they have increased efficiency and made investment in the terminal and there is improvement in the turnaround time for ships.

However, we still have cumbersome clearing procedures which should not be the case. We should be automated so that people can clear their cargo from the port without going there. There are so many things we have to do and there must be reforms in freight forwarding.

I believe in consolidation of freight forwarding because freight forwarding is very important in logistics. We have to have tracking systems. The tracking system itself must be informed and I think that this is the next stage the NSC is going. The reforms have to be total and comprehensive.

Therefore, for us to deliver a new port policy, there must be reforms and the NSC is already on that path. We want to clear our goods in a very good time in relations with our competitors. We are battling for Niger to have its transit cargo here. But they find solace in other climes because of the problems we are having here. So, we are trying to eliminate that and we are getting the cooperation of the NCS, which has been behind us. NIMASA, CBN, the Nigeria Economic Summit Group, the Manufacturers Association of Nigeria (MAN), NACCIMA, all of whom are members of the Board of Directors of the NSC. So, we are essentially economic regulators, we are not technical. The technical aspect is left to the various agencies there. We are concerned with the contribution of all these to the economy.

Also, stakeholders have accused the foreign shipping companies of insisting on the status quo because that is good for business. As the port economic regulator, what measures have you put

But stakeholders have also accused the Shipping companies of charging abnormal fees?

We have gone very far. The first thing is to look at these charges. If they are so many, we have to reduce and structure them in such a way, that everybody knows. The whole issue is transparency and these charges will be in the website of the shipping companies and terminals, so that investors, importers and exporter will know that what they will pay. So, everyone will know there are no hidden charges. Secondly, we have to give caps.

We will not fix charges and say it is X amount you are going to pay, but within percentage one should not charge less than an amount and we should not charge above an amount. This allows for competition. Just like they have now, their charges are not the same. Some charge arbitrarily higher, while others charge lower to attract clients.

That is how it should be, so when we do that you notice that shipping cost will come down. It is justifiable to increase charges and there are times when they decrease charges. Now, we have told them to decrease the port tax charge. We have told them to reduce it drastically by between 20-25 per cent. This is just an interim thing we saw because these charges were imposed without recourse to NSC and they are all ready to do that. Then we sit down and ask for their justification. All charges must be tied to the service you are rendering.

We cannot have fancy charges that don’t constitute anything.

We understand you are signing an MoU with the shipping companies on this matter, how true is this?

We are working hard on the MoU. I think

by July, we would have signed the MoU. Negotiation is going on with the shipping companies; we must first of all talk to our principal, the Federal Ministry of Transport and the stakeholders (the shippers, the freight forwarders, the manufacturers, NACCIMA and others). We will have stakeholders’ engagement.

But some of these companies are still charging illegal fees?

I think it was the port and harbour that was involved. We understand they introduced royalty and they are no more charging that. If all the companies are doing that, they have no choice, but to refund because those are illegal charges.

We have enforcement powers and we are maybe reluctant to use it because this is business environment. But we will never hesitate to do what is right.

T H I S D AY ˾ FRIDAY JUNE 15, 2018

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WEEKLY PULLOUT

WEEKEND Group Features Editor, Chiemelie Ezeobi Email chiemelie.ezeobi@thisdaylive.com

NEWS| P30

COLLAGE | P36

THISLIFE | P37

FILE ‘I HAVE PASSION FOR INTERIOR DESIGN’

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15.06.2018

‘I Have Passion for Interior Design’ Founder and Creative Director of NU MI Design House, Tanwa Newbold, who recently introduced to the Nigerian market her new corporate brand of interior designs at a uniquely curated exhibition, has over the last 10 years built a reputation as one of Nigeria’s leading young interior designers with her company providing a range of corporate and individual clients with project-based interior design services, supplemented by the ability to produce unique furniture and home ware to suit the individual taste. In this interview with Mary Nnah, she talks about her homecoming after several years of operating her interior business outside the shores of Nigeria, her passion for interior design and her plan for future

How did your journey into interior design start?

My daddy is an architect and a lot of people say I got it from him but my background is in business and investment banking; that is literally where my training is. However, I found out about 14 years ago that I love design and I started to explore interior design. I have a talent for it. I have an affinity for it and a passion for it, so I started to pursue it. I started from the very bottom. I started from making a sofa here and beddings there and step by step I grew and I am proud to continue growing because that is my aim – to do better than I did yesterday and to do better than I am doing today. I actually started doing interior design in bits and pieces in America and in the UK but the time when I took it very seriously, created other companies and did something very particular about it was when I moved back to Nigeria about 12 years ago.

So how has business been since you came back to Nigeria?

It has been difficult. My aim has always been to produce in Nigeria and to produce with what we have naturally available to us but it has been difficult because good finishing and quality are difficult things to achieve here. But we are getting better. We are training ourselves, we are learning from experiences and I am very proud to say we have come a very long way from where we were 12 years ago. And we would continue to grow as the years go by.

You have a whole lot of household wares and design displayed out here today. Can you tell us more about this exhibition?

This is basically the launch of my luxury brand.

We have here interior designs, household luxurious wares, furniture and all of that. This is our own way of expressing ourselves and showing the world what we are about – our vision, aesthetic influences and what we are trying to bring to Nigeria. NU MI Design House is a newly integrated brand and today we are officially launching the brand at a uniquely curated exhibition here at the Oando Wings Event Space - Wings Office Complex in Victoria Island, Lagos. NU MI is an integrated interior design, procurement, bespoke furniture manufacturer and homeware product designer. The event features a pop up installation of NU MI’s launch range of furniture, accessories and homeware. So today we are introducing a new range of luxury crockery and bedding, the first in a series of products as NU MI seeks to establish a range of its own brand homeware products. Here, the luxury crockery features two new designs in a 32 piece set, designed to be a dinner setting for six. The range includes: Amina,

incorporating a classic Nigerian theme and 24 Carat Gold, incorporating a contemporary splash of pure gold. The luxury bedding, designed by NU MI on 200 thread count Egyptian cotton, includes pillow cases, flat sheets, under sheets and duvet covers as well goose down pillows and duvets. Customers can incorporate their own design options for a minimum order of 50 sets. The event is supported by Oando Plc, at their recently launched Wings Event Space and La Connaisseur, the exclusive concept store for wine lovers.

There are different items with rich aesthetic design displayed here. Are these all your designs?

Yes, I made them all. The point of everything is to show you that there are different tastes, different characters and different aesthetics. And it is just how you play on them and with anything, you can achieve beauty.

What inspired the name Nu Mi? A lot of things inspired the name Nu Mi. My last name is Newbold, and I am going on new journey to an uncharted territory. It is a dream name. It is about continuity, newness, challenges and it is just about me, a new me.

What inspires each of your design?

Everything inspires my design – life, everyone and everything around me inspires me and that is the beauty of design and I love it so much. I change every day, I create every day and every little thing inspires me to create and to keep creating.

I want to talk to you, I want to get to know you, I want to get to know what your idea of beauty is and I want to create it for you. You can visit us on www.numidesignhouse.com for a total experience.

Talking about offering total experience to individual client, what should one expect from you?

I think you should expect your interpretation of beauty. I am not going to force my own reality on you. I want to bring your reality to life because it is about you and not me. That is my idea of perfection. When I am done with your job, you look at it and you say, “I am happy. This is what I wanted, this is my vision, and this is my passion, thank you!” That is happiness and success to me.

How easy has it been for you getting clients who want total experiences like you offer?

Nigerians have been very supportive. They have been amazing. And as long as you provide clients with quality and beauty, they would always keep coming back and that is what I love in my Nigerians. Nigerians are loyal.

Can you mention some of those you have worked for?

I have done a lot through the years and to be honest. I would like to keep my clientele private but I have done stuff for a lot of reputable private persons and organisations. I have been at it for 13 years. So I have done a lot apparently.

Do you have a professional background in interior décor?

I have taken classes in interior design but I think my background is my experience, exposure and in my natural affinity and passion for interior design.

You studied investment banking at school and suddenly you switched to interior decoration. Would you say this is more financial rewarding compared to a job in bank?

For me, it is hundred per cent more rewarding than being a banker. I always knew I could make money in banking but I didn’t have the drive and passion for banking job. I didn’t used to wake up every morning being excited to go for my banking job but with interior design, I wake up every morning being excited. I would work till 5a.m. because I love it and I have passion for it. And that is what I would tell anybody with a passion. As long as you have a passion and push, you can’t be wrong.

How do you operate your business?

I don’t sell single pieces. I do an entire experience. So what I do is that I try to provide an experience for individual client. I get to know you, I get to know your personality and what you love and I then create an experience for you as an individual. I like to make it personal.

I don’t want you to just come and buy a sofa from me; there is no connection in such way.

You are married with kids, so how do you combine your job with the home front?

I think the trick is to have a husband who believes in you, a husband who trust you and shares your vision; a husband who cares enough about you to accept you as yourself and gives you the freedom to express yourself and create your own legacy. I have a husband, children and other people who support me and are there

Who are your target audience?

My target audience is everyone because I take very huge pleasure in crating beauty in everything that I do. However, because of the cost of everything in Nigeria and because I aim to achieve perfection, every design I do seems to be a little bit expensive, so I will say my focus basically is medium to luxury.

for me daily and this makes me stronger and makes we wake up every day and want to do more because I want them to be proud of me.

Tell us about growing up and how exactly you were influenced by your father?

My father is an architect and I was influenced by his love for deigns. My house was never the same, every six months things changed. –something was broken down and something was put up again. There were designs everywhere.

So I had beauty everywhere and everyday things kept changing for me. So it was a beautiful experience growing up. And I had the freedom to be myself and express myself.

Nobody forced me to do anything. I was allowed to be creative in any way I wanted. So I had the peace to express the creative aspect of me.

Where did you school?

I am from Ilorin, Kwara State. I attended the Nigerian Navy Secondary School in Nigeria, and then I finished high school in New York and then did my undergraduate in Business.

I moved to the UK to have my masters in Investment Banking and then moved back to Nigeria about 13 years ago. I had worked in the bank for about three years but I always knew that was not what I wanted to. It was just a way to make money and run a living until I found my passion. Once I found my passion, I left the bank and never looked back again, What’s your future plan for Nu Mi? Expansion - being able to provide beauty to everyone. Being able to give everyone what they desire; being able to provide both the medium and high class beauty because I feel that everyone should have beauty regardless of price. My aim is to go into every home, regardless of what your pay cheque is and make it beautiful. And if I can achieve that in my life time, then I have done well. My future plan is to be able to provide a one-stop shop for designs, either for commercial, residential or hospitality. I want people to be able to come to me for everything – from furniture to beddings to dinnerware and whatever it is with regard to interior designs.

What advice do you have for young people who aspire to go your way?

I would say keep going, have passion and drive. Keep forcing it and pushing it, keep having standard and wanting to do your best.

Keep expressing your ability and passion for good finishing excellence and you would get there. Just keep challenging yourself.

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15.06.2018

Rose of Sharon Foundation Holds 10th Anniversary June 23 Peter Uzoho Rose of Sharon Foundation (RoSF), a humanitarian and empathy-driven organisation, focused on alleviating the plight of widows, fatherlesschildren and orphans will be celebrating its 10 years of existence.

The occasion billed to take place on June 23, 2018, same day with the International Widows Day, at the Queens Park Event Centre, Corporation Drive, Oniru Estate, Victoria Island, Lagos with the theme:‘Widowhood: Hope in the Midst of Despair, will feature prayer sessions, praises, discussion, empowerment and award.

Announcing the upcoming event at a press conference in Lagos Wednesday, Founder, Rose of Sharon Foundation and billionaire oil magnate, Mrs. Folorunso Alakija, disclosed that the foundation would be increasing the number of its beneficiaries by another 350 before year end, stressing that 100 out of the 350 would be empowered at the anniversary ceremony.

“We’re excited to announce that our foundation is 10 years old and we’re immensely grateful to God for all He has used us to accomplish in the lives of our widows, their children and orphans,” Alakija said.

“This foundation commenced from a divine call by God in James 1:27, instructing me to assist His widows and orphans. The celebration of grace has now begun,” she noted.

Also known as the servant leader, Alakija stated that the programme of the organisation provides financial and educational support to

Founder, Rose of Sharon Foundation- Mrs. Folorunso Alakija and The Grand Matron of the Foundation- Her Excellency, the 1st Lady of Lagos State, Mrs

such vulnerable group of people up to tertiary level and vocational training whenever the

need arose.According to her, a journey that started with three widows on May 23,2008,

has empowered over 3,000 widows through vocational skillsacquisition and awarded scholarships to 1, 366 widows’ children and 86orphans.

“The loans to widows are interest free and the scholarship has no condition attached.

We have also provided accommodation for residential and business purposes for 82 widows. Furthermore, in conjunction with our partners, we have provided free healthcare and free legal services to our widows and orphans at various times.

“Many amazing things have happened since we started in 2008. God hasused us to touch lives in ways they never thought of nor imagined.

Many a tear has been wiped away; many a sorrow has been transformed into laughter; inferiority has been changed to confidence; poverty has been transformed into economic independence, and many have been taken off the streets and into classrooms,” she said.

Alakija added: “I feel tremendously privileged to be a part of this vision and really elated at the commitment shown by the Chairman and Board of Trustees of the foundation for the furtherance of our work and goals. It has been a walk of faith, victory and celebration.

We have seen lives transformed and stories changed from helplessness to hopefulness, from weakness to strength and from fear to courage. God has continued to be faithful.”

Meanwhile, the foundation will embark on a walk this weekend as part of activities lined up for the anniversary ceremony, to create awareness on the challenges of widows, their children and orphans, and to canvass support for this category of vulnerable people in the society.

Bauchi State Launches OCP School for 10,000 Farmers From Olawale Ajimotokan in Abuja Bauchi State Governor Abdullahi Abubakar has flagged off the OCP School Lab innovative programme to increase agro yield and income of 10,000 smallholder maize farmers in 70 communities across the state.

The pilot scheme was launched in Nabordo, Toro Local Government Area as a drive to boost the agricultural sector in Bauchi State.

The school lab, which operates in a caravan of trucks, provides mobile interactive training sessions on the best agricultural practices for rural farmers.

It makes use of live demos, animated videos and is manned by trained personnel that offer farmers on-site soil testing to determine the peculiar needs of the soil and fertiliser recommendations.

Through the programme, farmers are advised on the rate of fertiliser use and the best time for its application.

The Nabordo initiative was the first of its kind launched by a fertiliser producer in Africa, to bring the latest soil testing innovations and effective agronomical training to serve the needs of farmers across the continent.

Abubakar expressed his appreciation to

Abubakar

the company for choosing Bauchi State as its centre of operation to implement the school lab across the four states including Bauchi, Kano, Katsina and Kaduna.

“This extensive agricultural soil testing is not only happening for the first time in the state, but it also promises to significantly lift up the productivity of rural smallholder farmers.

Bauchi is mainly an agrarian state, and one of the major developmental agenda of our government is to transform the fortunes of farmers in the state,” Abubakar said.

Speaking on behalf of Karim Lotfi Senhadji, the CEO of OCP Group, the Country Manager of the company in Nigeria, Caleb Usoh, said the biggest reception and encouragement his company had benefitted in the country had come from the government of Bauchi State.

Usoh explained that the OCP School Lab is one of the technological methods that the fertiliser company has put in place to help small holder farmers to drastically improve their productivity.

"The caravan goes round to take soil samples in the locations where the farmers are based, analyze them, and then produce specific fertilizers for the crop type and soil type. We seek to feed the soil in the right manner. The soil then feeds the crop. And finally, the crop feeds the people,” Usoh said.

OCP School Lab is being implemented in partnership with Bauchi State Agricultural Development Programme (BSADP), which is responsible for the farmers’ mobilisation, training, and logistics for the caravan.

Help Save Abugu Trust Fund, Dana Crash Victim Family Begs Gov Ugwuanyi, Others Sunday Okobi June 3, is a weighty day in the lives of Abugu family members. They are in constant remembrance of their late father, brother, husband, friend and benefactor who lost his life in the ill-fated Dana Airplane that crashed at Iju-Ishaga, Lagos, killing all 153 passengers on board and 10 more on the ground.

On June 3, 2018, when the family members gathered in Lagos to remember him, they reasoned that with his legacy sustained, through his foundation, Dr. Ike Abugu Trust Fund, the loss would be less weighty on them.

According to Abugu family’s opening speech, Abugu's brother, wife and children “Our dear friend, colleague and associate, Dr. Ike Godwin Abugu, was aboard that aircraft on gathered here today because we remember; we a flight from Abuja to Lagos. He was among have not forgotten.” those who perished in the sad and lamentable One of Abugu’s associates and member of incident. It was a national calamity, which has the foundation, Professor Nick Idoko, told the continued to reverberate until this day. Ike’s gathering that immediately Abugu’s painful death, promising life was gruesomely cut short in “we put together a foundation, named Dr. Ike its prime, at a time his star was rising in the Abugu Trust Fund. This was geared towards firmament. It is six years today. How time flies. raising fund for the education and upkeep of But we remember. We will never forget. We are the young family he left behind. There were

pledges in the heat of the moment but today, the Trust Fund is in red.”

While calling on the Enugu State Governor, Hon. Ifeanyi Ugwuanyi, and other good-spirited Nigerians to save the foundation, Idoko lamented that Abugu left behind a young wife, three little children, and an aged mother who need proper care and love.

According to him, “He (Abugu) had ambition

for his family; to give his children the best care and education, nothing less than what he got.

The children are growing rapidly but no father to propel them. Abugu, who hailed from Enugu-Ezike, Igbo-Eze North Local Government Area of Enugu State, was involved in many important projects and programmes at both the federal and state levels, especially in his home state of Enugu.

He is no longer here to continue with those noble causes. At this juncture, we call on His Excellency, Hon. Ifeanyi Ugwuanyi, Governor of Enugu State to take pity on the family of this star whose light was dimmed in high noon.

“We are, however, grateful to NASME for its kind support. We also give our kudos to the Federal Institute of Industrial Research. We are thankful to the Chairman of the Board of Trustees of the Trust Fund, Mr. Emeka Ugwu-Oju. We also use this opportunity to express our heartfelt gratitude to individuals and groups for their unflinching support thus far. We need to fund the foundation, nevertheless. We call on Ike’s numerous friends, colleagues and associates to lend a helping hand.

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15.06.2018

CCD Calls for Full Implementation of Special Persons Law

COSON Mourns Late Ras Kimono as Flags Fly at Half Mask

Stories by Mary Nnah A renowned Non-Governmental Organisation at the fore front of promoting disability rights in the country, the Centre for Citizens with Disabilities (CCD), has called for the full implementation of the Lagos State Special Persons Law by public and private sectors in the state. The Executive Director of the Centre, Mr. David Anyaele, made the call during a public presentation of the report of a research the Centre conducted on the Assessment of the level of Compliance of Public Institutions in Lagos State to the Provisions of the Lagos State Special Persons Law, held in Lagos recently. The ED regretted that seven years after the enactment of the LSSPL in the state, compliance level to the provisions of the law is still low.

While stressing that the research was conducted as part of lined up activity for the CCD’s project on Promoting Disability Rights and Citizens with Disabilities Participation in Electoral Process in Lagos State which is supported by Ford Foundation, the ED, hinted that it hoped that the research will serve as an evidence-based data that portrays the level of implementation by public institutions in the state and areas that needs to be improved on in terms of implementation.

He also revealed the resolve by CCD to deploy subtle approach in getting stakeholders to comply to the provisions of the law, through enhanced sensitisation, other than the use of force.

LatemRas Kimono Line MDAs representatives at the public presentation of CCD's Research Report on Compliance of Public Institutions in Lagos State to the Provisions of the Lagos State Special Persons Law (2011)

The entire membership, Board and Management of Copyright Society of Nigeria (COSON) have On his part, the Senior Programme Officer, to include issues bordering on accessibility, expressed great sadness at the passing on this CCD, Mr. Kola Ogubiyi revealed that the 52- inequality, financial needs, unemployment Sunday, June 10, 2018 of an unflinching member of page report contains key findings like the low and stigmatisation of Persons with Disabilities. the society and frontline member of the COSON awareness level on the provisions of LSSPL by Speaking earlier at the event, the Regional Board, a great African and great musician, the public institutions and persons with disabilities Director of Ford Foundation, Mr. Innocent reggae toaster and Rub – a - Dub Master, Ras in Lagos State, the weak enforcement of the Chukwuma, represented by his Personal As- Kimono Onwubuya. provisions of the law on accessibility, inclusion sistant, Adesuwa Ighile expressed dissatisfaction Reacting in Lagos to the death of one of and welfare of PWDs, the inexistence of vital over the fact that Nigeria is not meeting up Nigeria’s most loved musicians of the last three facilities at public buildings and the unavail- with international standards in providing decades, COSON Chairman, Chief Tony Okoroji ability of the usage of facilities even where they public infrastructures that are all inclusive said, “Kimono was not just a great musician but exist, lack of mechanism to handle welfare of such as the absence of ramps and elevators in a truly fantastic person. He had no angst against PWDs at MDAs, inexistence of MDA owned most public institutions. He called for change anyone and stood for truth and justice at all times. policies to help protect PWDs. He summarised of values around issues that have to do with I have not just lost a colleague but a valued friend. the challenges identified during the assessment persons with disabilities.

This is absolutely devastating.

“I was by his hospital bed at Lagoon Hospital, Ikoyi Saturday night before he passed on, on Sunday.

Despite his ailment he was in good cheer and we even shared jokes. I spoke to the doctors who expressed the view that he may have passed through the worst. I was at the domestic terminal of the Murtala Muhammed Airport, Ikeja on Sunday when I got the devastating phone call that got me screaming like a mad man. I was already checked in for a flight to Owerri. That was the end of the trip and the airline had to go to the aircraft to retrieve my already loaded baggage.

Shortly after receiving the news of the passing on of the great Ras Kimono, COSON Chairman, Okoroji, top Board members, Sir Shina Peters and Maureen Ejezie, the General Manager, Mr. Chinedu Chukwuji, Head of Finance, Ms. Bernice Eriemeghe and key Consultant, Prince Biodun L-R:Snr Mother In Israel Catherine Afolayan, General Secretary, National Good Women, MCCSW; Lady Evangelist Dove Eguakhide who had visited Kimono the night Akinadewo, Mrs. Adegbenro, an awardee; General Apostolic Mother Rev. Dr. Ayobami Akinadewo, National President, before with Okoroji, were at Lagoon Hospital, Ikoyi to condole with the family and ensure that Good Women, MCCSW; Mrs Ogunleye and Lady Evangelist Omotola Solomon, at the event appropriate arrangements are made afterwards. “soft skills” to guide their husbands aright Akinadewo noted. for the stability, progress and development In her own contribution, the new patron of the Nigerians Tasked on Fervent MCCSW Good Women National Conference, of this country.

Prayers as ‘And the Enemies “Women can go extra mile to ensure their Mrs. Victoria Adegbenro, said all Christian objectives are realised by using their exploits women must lead exemplary lifestyles because of Submitted’ Holds June 16 and “soft skill” to influence their husbands for their divine roles as nation builders. Adegbenro, the stability of this nation. If we can worship an educationist, urged women to stand strong General Overseer of The Lord’s Chosen Him in truth and in Spirit, God can make us as they effectively combine their roles as wives, Charismatic Revival Movement, Pastor Lazarus women, the Deborah of our nation and he mothers, nation builders and spiritual leaders.

Muoka has encouraged Nigerians to keep praying can use us to change imperfections in our She urged them not to succumb to challenges fervently as this is one of the major act that will families and in our system to become perfect,” and pressures but actualise their divine roles ensure peace in the nation. He said that the relative peace and unity being witnessed in Nigeria at the moment is as a result of the fervent prayers and supplications by members of the church of God. He said Nigeria would not appear in court to defend the Suit. The case have been in a more tensed situation if prayers was therefore decided as an Undefended Suit,” were not offered for God to intervene in the affairs of men. the layer noted further.

Speaking at press conference on the forthcoming She revealed further that the Suru Worldwide Venture had filed an appeal against the above Lord's Chosen two-day International crusade Judgment in CA/L/1257M/17 and AMCON through with the theme ‘…And the enemies submitted’, their Lawyer (Joseph Nwobike & Co) also filed scheduled to hold from June 16 -17 2018 at the their reply and the application was heard on Lord's Chosen Headquarters, Ijesha Lagos State, the 4th day of May, 2018 and same reserved Muoka pointed out that the grace of God is what for ruling, adding, “worthy of note is that has been keeping Nigeria together, despite the AMCON was represented at the court of plans of the enemies to wipe Nigerians away.

Muoka explained that those responsible for Appeal same day during the hearing.”

She said however that despite the fact that the the various killings in the name of Boko Haram ruling before court of Appeal is still pending, and herdsmen are enemies of Nigeria and do AMCON stormed the company’s property located not want the country to experience peace. "I at 12, Rev. Ogunbiyi Street, GRA, Ikeja, Lagos, want to let you know that the enemies we are with troops of mobile policemen on May 25, talking about be it devil, serpent and human 2018 to levy execution on the said property agents, are the ones responsible for the killings, without courts bailiffs which said matter was robbery, kidnapping, terrorism, stealing, afflictions Suru Worldwide Ventures' company Secretary, reported at Area F Police Station Ikeja for of various kind, economic recession, poverty in Anomneze the lives of the people. But, as we pray and bind breach of peace and contempt of court.

Lagos, and No 12, Rev. Ogunbiyi Street, GRA, “In spite of AMCON being aware that the spirits, the people that come to the programme Ikeja, Lagos as according to it, the properties our client’s application praying the court will have a relief. And they will have their way are securities of alleged debt. for orders staying the continuing and or and be blessed, until Jesus comes.”

“AMCON chose to make the Inspector General further execution of the said judgment, it has Muoka further stated that the programme which of Police; the Commandant-General of the Corps, continued to levy execution on our remaining comes once in two years is meant to address Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps and properties obviously with a view to confronting the problems Nigerians and the entire world are Lagos State Commandant of the Corps, Nigerian the court with a fait accompli,” she added. Suru going through at every point in time. “As we Security and Civil Defence the only parties to Ventures she said considers the action taken know, we are at the end-time. Last two years this suit conveniently leaving out the alleged by AMCON as contempt of the court despite when the programme was held, we knew how debtor! As expected, those Defendants on Record, the pendency of the ruling before the court of God handled the affairs of Nigerians and the who had nothing to defend nor at stake, did Appeal adding, entire world.

‘Women Have the Ability to Revive the Nation’ Apostolic Mother Elizabeth Akinadewo, wife of the Prelate/Supreme Head of Motailatu Church Cherubim and Seraphim Worldwide (MCCSW), Baba Aladura Elder Dr. Israel Akinadewo has said that women have the ability to revive the nation if only they can use their God-given abilities and soft skills to raise good children and guide their husbands.

Speaking during the National Women Conference of the church in its Ibeju-Lekki international headquarters Akinadewo stressed that women have all it takes to change Nigeria if only they realise and deploy their God-given skills.

The lady cleric who spoke on the theme, ‘The hand of God that changes Destiny’, cited the biblical characters like Ruth and Hannah, who through God’s divine intervention and their determination, were able to influence their immediate environments and the cause of history.

Enumerating disobedience, rebellion, wickedness, arrogance and all other unrighteous practices as factors that could limit ones experiencing the hand of God in destiny remoulding, she maintained that women have great influence in nation building and passionately appealed women should utilise their God-given ability and what she called

Suru Ventures Seeks Intervention on AMCON’s Persistent Harassments The Company Secretary, Suru Worldwide Ventures Nigeria Limited, Mrs. Anomneze Peace Obianuju has called for urgent intervention by relevant authorities to stop the persistent harassments that her company has suffered from Asset Management Corporation of Nigeria (AMCON) in the recent times.

Speaking during a press conference in Lagos Monday, Obianuju lamented that most devastating was when on June 8th, 2018, AMCON again reinforced and brought more mobile police men from Mopol 20 and dislodged security men at their duty post and also brought their security guards to mount the gate to the company’s property.

She recalled that “AMCON in The Suit No. FHC/L/ CS/1059/16 got a Judgment dated 30/5/2017, against the IGP and Civil Defence Corps without the knowledge of our company. This judgment was kept away from our company until our company’s properties affected by the order were stormed in Commando style by AMCON.” She noted further that AMCON did the when it mobilised armed mobile Policemen to the Best Western Hotel, switched off the Hotel Generator, teargassed the workers and the lodgers and brought the company’s business to an abrupt halt.

Speaking father, Obianuju noted that “In the above suit, to which our client was deliberately not made a party, AMCON prayed the Court to allow it take possession of our company’s properties at No. 12 Allen Avenue Ikeja, Lagos The Best Western Hotel), 86 Opebi Road, Ikeja,

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15.06.2018

Edo Restoring Hope through Progressive Governance Sunday Ehigiator writes that Edo State has become a huge construction site under Governor Godwin Obaseki In the many years that Nigeria has experimented with democracy, there have only been pickets of instances where solid technical expertise met reformative governance, especially for one running a government.

Instead, most of the time, Nigerians were exposed to and often times expect a government that offers tokenistic solutions to problems: a borehole here, roads leading to nowhere there, jamboree agricultural initiatives and many such schemes. Development experts have often intervened to support and focus government intervention to improving livelihoods, but they can only do so much.

Governor Godwin Obaseki in Edo State has piloted the affairs of the state with a panache that negates this trend. With ample experience from the boardroom, horned through years of brokering deals as an investment banker, he appears to be on a mission to rebrand governance. And with him on this task is no other than the Vice-President, Prof. Yemi Osinbajo, who brings in years of experience in administration, grooming and nurturing students as professor and lawyer, to bear on governance.

Since taking the mantle as the Vice-President, Osinbajo has come to upend this practice, marshalling programmes and policies that hit at the heart of most policy debacles, as can be seen in the Executive Orders he issued, the Social Investment Programme and a couple of others.

On his visit to Edo State, the Vice-President will launch the South-South Innovation Hub, meet with Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs), stop-over at the Edaiken Market, perform groundbreaking of the 1800-unit Emotan Gardens and the Edo Azura Power Plant.

Some of these projects are done in collaboration with the Office of the Vice-President, while the housing project and the expanded Edo Innovation Cluster, which houses the South-South Innovation Hub, are efforts by the Governor Obaseki-led administration to reset the local economy for growth and expansion.

For instance, a key feature of the Innovation Cluster is that it will serve to train young people on top-of-the-range skills to stimulate a local tech ecosystem, which will empower youths to provide digital solutions to everyday problems.

As with earlier visits for the inauguration of the Edo Chemical and Fertiliser Company Limited, Auchi and the groundbreaking of the Benin Industrial Park (BIP), the Vice-President will be in the state to lend his support for a number of the state government’s landmark projects.

Obaseki’s affordable 1,800-unit of housing project, a plus for local manufacturers, low income earners The construction of the 1, 800-unit Emotan Gardens in Ikpoba Okha Local Government Area of Edo State, is remarkable in a lot of ways, chief of which is the fact that it is the first government housing project in Edo State in the last 16 years. The project is being developed through a joint-venture partnership between Edo Development and Property Agency (EDPA) and MIXTA Africa, a private property development company.

Executive Chairman, EDPA, Isoken Omo, notes that Emotan Gardens is not just the first estate being developed by the state in the last 16 years, it will also be the first of kind, given the scale, offerings and class.

She said the project was well planned to provide affordable homes, adding, “We are building affordable houses from bungalows to high-rise buildings with flexible payment plans. We have looked at the housing needs of the people of the state and know exactly what to do.”

Obaseki has assured that the state will provide the land for the project and link local makers of building materials in the state to the project to ensure that costs are minimal and that the units are affordable.

He said: “We want to use the project to develop the supply chain of inputs that are locally produced in the state. This would grow local businesses. We have insisted that raw materials to be used for constructing the 1,800-unit housing, should be sourced locally from industries in the state. This will assist the industries contribute to the growth of the

R-L: Edo State Governor, Mr. Godwin Obaseki; Vice-President Yemi Osinbajo; Deputy Governor, Edo State, Rt. Hon. Philip Shaibu; Minister of Agriculture and Rural Development, Chief Audu Ogbeh; former governor of Edo State, Comrade Adams Oshiomhole, during the inauguration of the Edo Fertiliser and Chemical Company Limited, Auchi, Edo State

Vice-President Yemi Osinbajo (2nd right) and Edo State Governor, Mr. Gdowin Obaseki (right), during the groundbreaking ceremony of the Benin Industrial Park (PIB), in Benin City, Edo State

local economy.”

On his part, the Managing Director, MIXTA Africa, Mr. Kola Ashiru-Balogun, explained that the first phase of the project which will commence with the groundbreaking ceremony by Vice-President Yemi Osinbajo, will be completed within 12 months.

According to him, the different payment plans being considered for the affordable housing project, include a 24-month interest free payment plan, as “MIXTA Africa is discussing with financial institutions to see how arrangements can be made to provide longer tenured financing payment plans.”

Edo Innovation Cluster: Restoring hope through innovation Technology buffs can finally say that the tech bug has finally caught Edo State and VicePresident, Yemi Osinbajo is right on time to put the icing on the cake. With a robust collaboration between the federal and state government, the setting up of the cluster is to provide youths in the state avenue to channel their strength for social good as well as develop skills for survival in the digital economy.

The cluster is situated at the Institute of Continuing Education (ICE), in Benin City. ICE is being remodeled to meet the requirements of co-working spaces to spur collaborations.

The governor says the facility “will host over 25 Information and Communication Technology (ICT) companies. These companies will use the facility as innovation hub for different forms of training and certification. Those that will benefit from the facility are both the young

and old residents in the state as they will get skills and certification.”

Commissioner for Wealth Creation, Cooperatives and Employment, Hon. Emmanuel Usoh said, the facelift of the facility has validated Edo State as a case study in Nigeria on how public facilities can be transformed for effective use, which was the drive for the governor in refurbishing the former Institute of Continuing Education (ICE) into an innovation hub.

According to Usoh, among the over 25 technology companies which will be accommodated in the hub, include Google Cisco, Miscrosoft and Oracle. He explained that the hub, an initiative of Governor Obaseki will up-skill youths, stimulate tech-focused small businesses and curb human trafficking and illegal migration.

“The hub will offer youths who are interested in travelling abroad for jobs, opportunities to acquire up-to-date skills in technology.

The training programme will be as intense as obtainable in similar hubs across the world, as we are partnering with global companies in setting up the facility.

“International certifications will be obtainable at the hub. This will offer youths unique opportunities to discover their talents in the use of technology and improve these skills and promote innovation as the world has become a global village, where technology is key in transforming the society for the better,” Usoh said.

Why FG is partnering Edo on MSMEs and Start-ups

There has been an increasing focus on Edo as a hub for economic opportunities given the state government’s posture, which has promoted growth of Small and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs). It is expected that with the coming of the Innovation clusters, even more start-ups will find expression in the state, with the use of the facilities provided at the innovation hub.

At ICE, the state government is providing the space and other structures for the hub, while the federal government is bringing in some experts to operate at the SouthSouth hub. However, there is also a strong partnership between the state government and technology companies, which is likely going to make the facility one of the most equipped to accommodate start-ups in the region.

Usoh said the Edo Innovation Hub would also accommodate a training facility where small business owners would be trained on how to leverage digital solutions to transform their businesses in line with the vision of Obaseki to create more jobs and wealth for the people.

According to him, “Individuals and groups who own small businesses in the state and intend to transform their businesses in line with global standards can acquire innovative skills at the hub.”

Senior Special Assistant to the President Muhammadu Buhari on Industry, Trade and investment, Dr. Jumoke Oduwole, explained that Edo state forms part of the vast business corridor in the South-South region.

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15.06.2018

Oparandudu: APGA is the Party to Beat Today in Imo Mr. Nick Oparandudu, a governorship aspirant under the platform of theAll Progressives Grand Alliance, is a former banker with experience spanning over 20 years, he served as Chief Economic Adviser to the current Imo State Government, Commissioner for Planning and Economic Development, Commissioner for Works and Transport, and Commissioner for Internal Resources (IGR) and Pension Matters. In this interview with select journalists in Lagos, he begs Imo people to cry no more, promising to wipe away all their tears when he eventually comes on board in 2019. Peter Uzoho was there Your campaign has been anchored on the message: ‘Imo Cry No more’ and ‘Imo will Rise Again’. Why is Imo down and crying, and what do you intend to do to raise the people and wipe their tears?

Thank you for that question. I think the background to those facts, that's what I will like to call them, is the rich history of Imo State. If you look at the whole of South-east Nigeria or the former Eastern Region, the area currently called Imo State was like the shining light of that region in terms of the quality of people who came out of these places; in terms of the people's commitment to education, civilisation and even in terms of their commitment to issues like Christianity and all that. And when you remember that it was an area that produced people like the late KO Mbadiwe, the late Raymond Amanze Njoku, the late Chief Nwoga who was an Eastern Region minister; the late Basil Nnanna Ukaegbu who has the distinction of having started the first privately-owned university in the country, and several others.

The late Professor MC J Echeruo, the late Eze Dennis Nwachukwu-Abbey, these are all very prominent people. You go to the Orlu area you look at the Acholonus, and so on and so forth.

You can start counting. You have a situation where even most significant commercial centre in the South-east which was Port Harcourt, you had even Imo indigenes being the Mayor there.

So, you can describe this Imo State or Imo State as currently situated as a place that has been recognised as made up of trailblazers, people who set standards for the rest of Igboland.

Regrettably in the past seven years or a little longer than that, we have been bedevilled by what I will call bad governance, particularly the type of which we are witnessing today in the state. The people are so despondent and they are beginning to ask the question: Is the basis for governance or government truly the welfare of the people? Because we have a situation where the civil servants are not being paid as and when due; we have a situation where pensioners are crying; practically every pensioner in Imo State has one or two dud cheques in his hands; cheques that were issued by government; and the old men and women would get to the bank and they are told there's no money. And whereas as we know, government cheques are supposed to be cash as it were. As a matter of fact, some of us who had the opportunity of maybe working or doing things in a place like the UK, once you are given a municipal cheque or government cheque, it's as good as cash. You can never have a situation where it comes back, never! But we have a situation in Imo State where old women who have earned their dues are issued dud cheques; they go to bank and they are told there's no money to pay them.

Then you look at the physical side of the state.

There has been significant decay of infrastructure and you try to situate where the state has found itself relative to a state like our neighbouring Anambra State and you see that we are miles apart. You find that everywhere in Anambra State, the nooks and crannies of Anambra State, right from the time of Ngige, through Peter Obi to the current governor Willie Obiano, they have done marvelously in terms of providing perhaps the most extensive network of roads that you can find in any state in the Federal Republic of Nigeria.

And sometime when you go to Anambra you will be missing your way because all the roads are tarred. And if you look at the fact that 12 years ago it wasn't like that in Anambra but they have been able to turn the corner. And today, they are enjoying the dividends of democracy.

When you juxtapose this with the neighbouring Imo State, you are disappointed. Because even in Owerri, which is the capital city, we only have roads in certain areas. Even though the good roads in Owerri, built by Mbakwe, Ndubuisi Kanu and the rest of them, is now being expanded by the governor to what he calls six or eight lanes, in places that do not even require such expansions,

Oparandudu

all in the name of some bogey urban renewal programme. Meanwhile off those roads, all of them, from Government House Roundabout to Wetheral Road to Port Harcourt Road, wherever you want to go in Owerri you find that the roads are all bad. You go to Aladinma, all the roads are bad; you go to Federal Housing Estate the roads are bad, you go to World Bank the roads are horrible; everywhere. And yet that is supposed to be urban renewal. To me, it's all about deception. It's so unfortunate that Imo that has been recognised nationwide as perhaps a citadel of learning for most people, a melting pot of people who embraced civilisation a long time ago would now find themselves in this very sorry state.

Given the mood of despondency across the state, there's yet an urgent need for a reawakening of the Imo spirit, to let people know that it's not over, that indeed it could be better and things would definitely get better; that what we are seeing now is, as it were, in my own thinking, a passing phase, and beyond this phase, there will be good times for the people. And these good times will be brought about by serious governance that they truly deserve.

Governor Rochas Okorocha has always claimed that he's very popular, that the people are behind him and with youth groups declaring support for him. Are you saying all that is not true, that the people are not with him? Again, there was a time he had an altercation with the governor of Anambra State and said Imo has the best infrastructure in the South-east and cited building 27 general hospitals in the state.

Well, I don't think that is true because I was also at some point part of that government. So, I don't think that is true. You cannot compare Imo with Anambra; it's like comparing day and night, light and darkness; that comparison is not right. And if you talk of 27 general hospitals where are they? What we have in Imo State, and I want you to go and verify, are 27 uncompleted buildings which the governor has for the past four, five years have been mouthing and saying are general hospitals built for the people. None of those buildings has been completed with the exception of one at Ikeduru on the way to Okigwe.

And the second one on the way to Imo Airport which he has now handed over to the Nigerian Navy or Nigerian Airforce, for whatever purpose.

So, none of those so-called 27 general hospitals has been completed. So, that claim is hollow,

is not factual. You can find out for yourself by visiting the 27 local governments. What you will find is that the outside of these buildings have been painted. But when you go into those buildings, you will find that they have not even been plastered, you find that the conduit and wiring have not been done, the pipes haven't been laid and so on and so forth. It's all about deception.

You were at a time part of that government.

At what point did things began to go wrong and what was your response to this?

Well, Governor Rochas Okorocha started out well. As you know he's a populist, so to speak, he knows how to turn some of these things to his own advantage. But truly I must tell you that most of the claims are not what they are.

I was part of that government, that's a fact. I was a commissioner, that's a fact. The way I look at it is that I went there to give my best to Imo people not really like serving Rochas Okorocha in a personal capacity, that's mistake people make. Government belongs to all of us.

I understand you are running on the platform of APGA. How strong is APGA compared to other parties in Imo? APGA is the party to beat today in Imo. That is a fact. APGA has always had a popular appeal at grassroots; but regrettably they have always suffered because each time people finish voting for APGA, what happens to the vote before they are announced normally surprises everybody.

I think with the experience of 2011 which will definitely dovetail into 2019, nobody is going to steal APGA votes in Imo State.

What are you going to do differently if elected governor of Imo State?

There are so many things that are wrong in Imo State. First, we must restore the people's confidence in their government. The people of Imo State are despondent. The school system is not working even though you'd say the number of people in the schools has gone up; the hospitals are not working; there's single hospital in Imo State that is working to the standard they are used to in other states of the Federal Republic of Nigeria; the civil service in Imo State is comatose.

As a matter of fact, there are only two ministries that you can go and see activities, and those are the ministries of Land and Urban Planning,

and then Finance. Every other ministries, the civil servants resume about 9 or 10 O'clock in the morning and they leave about 12 noon or 1p.m. to do their school run; and from there they go home.

This is so because the government they have seen since the past seven years has completely usurped the functions of bureaucracy. Government transactions, 90 to 95 per cent of them are done from Government House.

Transactions that ought have been run through the ministries, complying with due process provisions and all of that, are not even brought to the attention of the civil service; so the civil servants are redundant in Imo State. This coupled with the fact that at some point the governor told them they could work for only three days and use two days for farming. I mean this is not a question of saying things that cannot be verified.

If you go to the Secretariat in Imo State you will see what I'm talking about. So we need to restore confidence in government, even the civil servants, we need to restore their faith in the bureaucracy. And as you know there is no government that can succeed in the implementation of these programmes if the civil service is not given its rightful place. Unfortunately, this does not happen in the state.

If you talk about the pensioners, that's a long story. And I'm sure you guys in the media must have heard it severally over the past couple of years the running battle the pensioners have had with the state government. So, I think the important thing is trying to restore confidence in government because government is all about the welfare of the people.

Talking about uncompleted projects don't you think that could be a factor of funding?

Also given the fact that this seem to be a common problem in Nigeria, don't you think this can also affect your chances of performing if you become the governor?

I don't think it's all about funding. I think the problem of Imo State and uncompleted projects has to do with the fact that the civil service, the bureaucracy, has been completely sidelined. And you have a governor that feels that it's only when it's done from the Government House that's when it gets done. And it has nothing to do with funding. Imo State has received in the past seven years well in excess of N800 billion.

If you take the states and local governments and you look at costs and other intervention funds that come to government from time to time: the 13 per cent Derivation, the Paris Club. But you don't find it anywhere. And for goodness sake, if you haven't completed a building that was meant for a hospital, you truly know, honestly, that it has not been completed, in which case it's not a hospital, why claim it's a hospital when you know it's not a hospital? You might as well leave it at the realm of uncompleted projects or buildings. So, I don't think it has anything to do with funding. Yes, there could be constraints in funding but what you find in Imo State are not found what you find in other states of the Federal Republic of Nigeria. At least to that level. So the issue for us is all about execution management.

You are in APGA, at a time you were in APC which is currently the ruling party in the state and at the federal level. Are you not worried that APGA may not be able to withstand APC because of the incumbency factor?

Well, it's all about one's philosophy of your politics. Even when PDP was the party at the centre, had all the resources, had all the control of the apparatus of state, I still joined APGA as a party because it's all about what you understand about politics and what role you want to play in politics. I believe that APGA represents the interest largely of the South East and its people.

And I also believe that even if you gave me the opportunity to remain in APC I probably won't have been comfortable. So, that is the fact about it.

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15.06.2018

National Council for Arts and Culture Set to Grace SIAO, Burkina Faso Jonathan Eze The International Arts and Handicrafts Trade Show (SIAO) at Ouagadougou in Burkina-Faso will witness huge transformation this year in terms of participation according to a statement by the Director-General, National Council for Arts and Culture, Chief Segun Runsewe.

Runsewe made this known when he received a four-man delegation from the Burkina Faso Embassy led by Mr. Diallo-Hassane, who paid a visit to the culture headquarters to seek Nigeria’s partnership in making this year’s event first of its kind in terms of packaging, promotion and participation.

Briefing the NCAC DG, Diallo-Hassane was of the opinion that Nigeria was a country blessed with numerous art and crafts adding that her participation in this year’s trade show will create a platform for sound networking between other African nations such as Ghana, Senegal, Zambia, Tanzania and others.

The Burkina Faso officials acknowledged the fact that Nigeria has some very nice and wonderful products to showcase to the world while participating in the trade fair.

According to the delegation, a business forum is normally organised where countries like Japan, America and many advanced countries from Europe including other parts of the world interact with each other during the trade fair which often serves as an avenue to showcase African strength collectively noting that many exhibitors look forward to this event.

While responding, the Director-General promised to attend and grace the occasion in his capacity as the current president of world

Director-General, National Council for Arts and Culture, Segun Runsewe and other management staff in a group photograph with Burkina Faso Delegation during a courtsey call to NCAC Headquarters in Abuja....recently

crafts council barring unplanned circumstances affirming that Nigerian art and crafts cannot be found anywhere in the world. The culture helmsman used the opportunity to inform the delegation that this year’s African arts and Crafts expo (AFAC) now known as International Arts and Crafts Expo (INAC) which will be held later

in the year is also going to be a well repackaged fair with well organised and modernised state of the arts facilities.

The Director-General intimated that Nigeria being the soul of culture in Africa, will support with all the needed logistics in making this year’s (SIOA) a huge success. He concluded by saying,

“With our strong working relationship already in existence, you can be well assured that our partnership with you is total.” The event which has been in existence since 1988 promises to bring on board a unique and positive dimension to this year’s occasion. The trade show will commence early October and will last for ten days. https://

Budding Entrepreneurs Gear up for Charles O’Tudor Brand Master Class Season Two Widely acknowledged brand strategist and vast entrepreneur, Charles O’Tudor is gearing up to hold the second edition of the most anticipated Charles O’Tudor Brand Master Class Season Two (COBM02).

The event which coincides with O’Tudor’s 47th birthday is a special birthday anniversary give back to the society and its first edition which held last year had 460 entrepreneurs in attendance. The anticipation and clamour for participation since O’Tudor unveiled plans for the second edition has consistently been on the rise.

Just like the first edition, the ‘Charles O’Tudor Brand Master Class’ will feature stirring and innovative sessions where partakers will be led on how to plan, build and implement a winning brand from brief to creation and implementation. In one of his social media posts, O’Tudor said the brand master class is for “entrepreneurs who are passionate about growth, who desire real impact and are hungry for improvement. Entrepreneurship has been found to be capable of making greater impact on the economy and nation, the quality of life of her people through economic growth, employment generation and repositioning

O'Tudor

Nigeria as an emerging economic giant. It’s for these reasons that I have chosen to give back to Nigeria through the Charles O’Tudor Brand Master Class Series For Exceptional Entrepreneurs.” ` As part of the build up to the event, some of

the speakers have been unveiled and it seems O’Tudor wants this year’s participants to learn from other successful world renowned brand strategists. British-born Claudine Moore who owns an impressive PR and communications career that spans top global agencies and Fortune 100 brands across multiple markets has been confirmed as one of the speakers.

Claudine has held senior leadership roles in agencies such as McCann Erickson (MRM) and Grey. She was also the US Regional Director, Media, Marketing and Business Development for PR giant, Hill and Knowlton Strategies.

Also confirmed as one of the speakers, is Musheer Alambert, who has over 12 years of experience in financial industry, working on assignments in North America, Europe, Africa, and the Middle East. Most recently, he led multinational engagement teams to manage audits for the National Bank of Abu Dhabi across its global network, which extends to 150 locations and 18 countries, and has assets over $100 billion. The last but not the least is Nigeria’s Chukwuka Monye, the Managing Partner of Ciuci Consulting and Director General of Delta Economic Summit Group. Chukwuka is an innovation strategist, corporate development

and consumer intelligence expert.

One of the event’s sponsors, African Wealth Report has also volunteered to sponsor the best five entrepreneurs with the most resounding business plans to Switzerland to gain more skills acquisition. Air Peace will also be giving out five free local return tickets to outstanding entrepreneurs who can distinguish themselves in their chosen fields. Charles O’Tudor has earlier announced that he will be hosting 1007 entrepreneurs this year selected based on viability of their businesses and the submitted rationale behind their desire to be at the ‘Master Class’, after applying online at www.charlesotudor. com/register . The event is scheduled to hold on June 20, 2018 by 10am at The Coliseum, Lekki.

Charles O'Tudor is Africa’s premiere brand strategist and engagement consultant. Over the years, he has enriched the branding landscape with his innovative approach to brand building across all sectors of the economy. An alumnus of the prestigious wits business school in South Africa, he is the Principal Consultant of ADSTRAT Brand Management Consultants, a firm renowned for its out of box approach to brand strategy and engagement. He is an accomplished author, public speaker and thought leader.

Nestlé Helps Nigerian Farmers Grow Healthier Grains Nestlé Nigeria PLC, in collaboration with International Fertiliser Development Centre (IFDC)/ 2Scale, is helping farmers improve their livelihoods by empowering smallholder farmers on sustainable farming practices under the initiative, Nestlé Nigeria and IFDC/2Scale Project Sorghum and Millet. The partnership aims to improve grain quality and productivity.

Nestlé, together with its implementing partners, has made significant impact in the past two years, training over 7905 sorghum and 1069 millet farmers on good agricultural pre-harvest and post-harvest practices. 22 per cent of these farmers are women. The farmers testify to a significant increase in income. This change is due to an increase in productivity, improved crop quality and the availability of a ready market, which eliminates the negative influence of middlemen.

Before Nestlé Nigeria and IFDC/2Scale Project Sorghum and Millet’s intervention, the yield per hectare was 0.9 tons.

In the first year of the project in 2015, the yield doubled to 1.3 tons/hct, and reached 1.8 tons/hct in 2017. The target is to reach 2.20 tons/hct in 2018 farming season, progressing towards the maximum yield capacity of 2.35 tons/hct of the crop varieties.

Another contributor to the increase in income

A farmer harvesting maize

is the improved negotiating skills of farmers, an outcome of the business training and coaching they have received. The coaching sessions have led to farmers becoming much more confident about their position and the quality of their products. For women producers, this has had an especially strong impact. One example of this can be found in Mrs. Hanna Musa, one of the two women in the negotiations team. Prior to the coaching, she had been too shy to speak up, but the opportunity to participate in the

negotiations on Nestlé’s terms of delivery and payment, helped her grow into her leadership role.

Speaking on the drivers of the outcome of Nestlé Nigeria and IFDC/2Scale Project Sorghum and Millet, Mr. Maxwell Olitsa, Project Manager, IFDC said, “We achieved the results in the field by empowering farmers to adopt best practices and new technology. Showing in addition to telling also made a lot of difference. 27 demo plots were established; six of them managed by women, where best farming practices are

demonstrated. The demo plots are always accessible to the farming clusters to provide continuous technical support and coaching in the field.”

To ensure crop integrity from farm to factory gate, the project also trains aggregators, pesticide spray providers and input suppliers. This 360-degree approach has significantly reduced post-harvest losses.

While helping to improve the livelihoods of farmers within the project, Nestlé projects that the continued intervention with its partners will result in sustainable supplies of high quality grains required for its production sites. Emphasising on the impact of the project on the livelihoods of farmers and on the company, Mr. Mauricio Alarcon, CEO/Managing Director, Nestlé Nigeria said, “Today, we source about 80 per cent of our agricultural raw material in the country. As we work towards increasing this percentage, we remain committed to working alongside our partners to further improve the quality and quantity of grains and legumes”. 2/2 “The results we have achieved so far with Nestlé Nigeria and IFDC/2Scale Project Sorghum & Millet is an example of what is possible when we look at the agriculture value chain holistically from the farm to storage, to transportation, and right down to the factory gate and take definite measures to close the gaps,” he concluded.

34/XTRA

15.06.2018

How ARC Nigeria is Revolutionising Nigeria’s Medical Supply Chain System

According to the World Health Organisation (WHO), access to medicines and health commodities is one of six major building blocks of an effective health system.

Indeed, the role of supply chain and logistics systems through which medicines and health commodities are delivered to the last mile cannot be overemphasised. Evidently, the goals of the Universal Health Coverage (UHC) to deliver access to required health services of sufficient quality cannot be achieved without access to medicines and health commodities.

Equally, the manpower that oversees, manages and operates supply chain and logistics systems become paramount. Functional supply chain systems manned by capable logisticians across tiers ensure health facilities are adequately stocked at all times, ensuring availability of commodities and access to healthcare at the last mile.

Nigeria ranks low on logistics competence evidenced from the World Bank’s 2016 Logistics Performance Index (LPI) report, which ranks Nigeria within the bottom 2 quintiles, characterised by very low availability of skilled logisticians, especially in mid-level management roles.

As a result, the Africa Resource Centre (ARC) Nigeria was conceived as partnership between the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation (BMGF) and Private Sector Health Alliance of Nigeria (PHN) – as a central resource centre to foster, mobilise and channel expertise and capacity within the private sector and academia to strengthen public health supply chains across the country.

ARC Nigeria primarily seeks to deliver impact by raising the performance of health supply chains to increase the availability of medicines and health commodities at the last mile – through capacity enhancements of public health logisticians, supply chain process improvements, among others.

Therefore, one major focus area of the ARC is to support effective development of local talent pools adequately trained to manage and operate public health supply chain and logistics systems, as well as for private sector supply chain systems in Nigeria and subsequently within West Africa. In effect, the ARC seeks to foster a supply chain revolution in Nigeria by facilitating local and international partnerships to foster in-country capacity for sustainable supply chain education, research and innovation.

Since December 2016, the ARC has initiated

L-R: Principal Manager, Finance, Administration and Strategy, Private Sector Health Alliance of Nigeria, Mr. Dayo Lomuwagun; Dean, Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences, UNN, Prof. Godswill C. Onunkwo ; Regional Director, Africa Resource Centre for Supply Chain (ARC) Nigeria, Azuka Okeke; Associate Dean, Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences, UNN, Dr. Chukwuemeka S. Nworu and Chairman, Royale Resources Ltd & Lead Consultant Maxwells Consulting Ltd, Prince Pharm Chijioke Ofomata, at the signing of Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences UNN and ARC Nigeria in Enugu to drive supply chain management in Nigeria

collaborations with several private sector companies to facilitate transfer of supply chain expertise to strengthen public health supply chain systems.

Worthy of note are successful collaborations that the ARC facilitated between Proctor & Gamble, UPS, Fidson Pharma and the National Warehousing Advisory Council (NWAC) under the Federal Ministry of Health and National Primary Health Care Development Agency (NPHCDA) respectively.

Currently, the ARC is also collaborating with multiple academic institutions in Nigeria, such as, the University of Nigeria Nsukka (UNN), University of Lagos (UNILAG), Nnamdi Azikiwe University (NAU), Awka and Lagos State University (LASU) to foster educational and

research capacities on supply chain management.

These collaborations are targeted at strengthening existing programmes or establishing new supply chain management degree and certificate programmes, through curriculum strengthening, faculty exchanges, joint research projects, student internships, and so on.

According to Pharm Azuka Okeke, Country Director, ARC Nigeria, “ARC aims to foster more partnerships with universities across the country within the next three years. We are confident that these collaborations will lead to a sustainable increase in the number of adequately trained professionals with practical skills ready to make impact in public health and private sector supply

chain systems in Nigeria.”

She continued: “ARC Nigeria’s medium to long term plan to spur development of local talent involves setting up a premier academic Center of Excellence on supply chain in partnership with local and international universities to ensure even distribution and promotion of supply chain knowledge and research across Nigeria.

“To this end, the ARC is also partnering with the Massachusetts Institute Technology’s Centre of Transport Logistics, MIT CTL, a leading global institute on supply chain management education and research, with proven track-record in setting up supply chain excellence centers around the world, connected through the MIT Global SCALE Network.”

#OccupyNigeria: iVotism App and the New Digital Activism Richard Ali A few years ago, I was in one of the centres of the #OccupyNigeria protests. The Goodluck Jonathan administration had increased the pump price of petrol, purportedly to remove a subsidy, and the country went up in arms.

With Gimba Kakanda, I set up a Facebook group called ‘Nationwide Anti Fuel Subsidy Removal Protests’ as a sort of clearing house for the revolution. Young and committed activists of that heady period. I remember, in particular, Gloria Sevezun Agbaosi, Jeff Unegbu and well over 40,000 others. This was in 2010 and what we tried to do was to harness the internet and technology for activism. Organised labour and the Nigerian tendency to mediocrity betrayed #OccupyNigeria. I am writing now because I am glad to see that others, such as the team behind the iVotism Android app, have continued to refine that old experiment.

To my mind, the central issue of #OccupyNigeria was the need for participatory democracy—away from the trappings of democracy such as a suitable constitution, routine elections and the separation of powers. In the early hours after the announcement of the fuel price hike, there was a feeling that not only had I been robbed of half the value of my little savings as a result of an inevitable skyrocketing of prices, there was a feeling of not being listened to, paid any attention, heard. Hundreds of thousands of young people also shared this feeling. In deciding how to get heard, our options were limited to the only tools we knew—public demonstrations, disruptive behaviour, marches and sit-outs—learned from the students union and labour protests of the earlier generation. The strength of #OccuyNigeria lay in its attempt to articulate a broad-based rejection of the government’s indifference to young people and our economic issues. The weakness

of #OccupyNigeria was its broadly dispersed members across geography and temperament united only by angst and internet connections.

It proved difficult to marshal and make coherent. By the time the labour unions betrayed our concerns, #OccupyNigeria itself had lost steam and devolved into posing and the staged making of bonafides. The iVotism app has learned from this, made the most of our strengths and tried to address the weaknesses of that movement.

Developed as an Android app by Engineer Mande Kira and his team, iVotism aims to be a decision helper and perceptions aggregator.

Its stated purpose is to help Nigeria’s electorate decide who is worthy of re-election and who is not by virtue of the collective ratings of millions of users. In doing this, the app situates itself in the very centre of social activism by being the digital pulse of very real people. A recent article in the technology blog TechPoint.ng puts NCC figures of connected mobile phones at 236 million lines. Adjusted by the matrix of each Nigerian having an average of three lines, all connected to the internet, the actual number of mobile phones users is just shy of 80 million lines. Further adjustments to factor in the prevalence of cheap Chinese and Asian made smartphones are needed to find a “real” connected population of perhaps 40 million. INEC figures

provide the total registered number of voters for the 2015 elections to be 67 million people, the actual voters on Election Day was 29 million persons. The deciding margin, which saw the APC’s Muhammadu Buhari win the presidency was a mere 2.5 million votes.

The Ivotism Android app platform is designed as a compact model such that users can access the profiles of leaders that matter to them only and there rate and discuss the activities of these officials that affect or interest them, from the president down to the lowest elected local government official. The implication for young politicians and activists is obvious. With such scientific feedback, politicians and activists can streamline discussions and get feedback from their constituencies, the people that they are serving or intend to serve. It also helps the electorates to hear directly from their locality the developmental progress of their leaders. The app is thus able to scale the digital into the local at the level of issues and strategies.

Being a real-time data analysis and data collection point also allows the evaluation of policy implementation and can be a guide to strategy planning. Relying on this, envelope approaches to the important issues of policy and strategy in our public and civil service becomes untenable. What we tried to do on the street in 2010 was to put the pressure on the government. I think iVotism, speaking the digital language of its own time, does the same thing, and more comprehensively than Gimba and other chums of mine could have imagined. From comprehensive data to coherent interpretation is a simple step and there are enough opinion makers to animate this process.

While I give my full support to the iVotism app and urge everyone to go and download it from the Google Android Play Store, I cannot help thinking of the challenges it will face. It

has tried to surmount the limitations of social activism past, such as those the #OcccupyNigeria laid bare, but how will it deal with the elitism and provincialism? In the years since #OccupyNIgeria, the country has grown two gulfs. On the one hand is the economic gulf in which elite persons feel no relationship at all with the people responsible for their own being elite. This elite is a shape shifting one, defined by various levels of economic ability, or education, or access, banded together by an indifference for anything society-wide and broad-based. I do not know whether it is a consequence of elitism or parallel to it but another gulf, of provincialism, has become more entrenched since 2010. I will explain. We have a social space today that ranges in the concentration of toxicity, where average people are quite perfectly willing to adopt closed mind-sets according to religious persuasion, ethnic affiliation, fictions of identity and more, exclusively.

Obliterated from individual consciousness is the basic idea of audialterempartem, couched correctly by folk as “there are two sides to a story”. My coming of age was in a different world, not so long ago but unrecognizable now, in which one always considered alternative and competing viewpoints—as a way to appraise ones position and to clarify it in a beneficial way. This was the late 90’s and I do not know how the iVotism app will deal with these two gulfs.

Nonetheless, the process of speaking to one’s age is endless, and each must do what he can.

I did my bit and will continue to do so. Mande Kira and his team are doing so now with their iVotism Android app and it is the right thing to do. Therefore, I tilt my candle flame into his, and others, in the hope that there may be enough light for the darkness yet. .Ali is an Abuja-based lawyer, novelist and poet

35/LIVING

15.06.2018

FERTILITY WITH DR. KEMI AILOJE

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

LIFESTYLE AND INFERTILITY (PART 1) A number of factors can lead to infertility in couples, but not all of them are medically related. Over the years several studies have been conducted to prove that there are other non-medical factors that can affect a person’s fertility.

The big question we would be asking and answering this week is: Can my lifestyle choices be a possible risk factor for my infertility?

It is amazing how much we indulge in unhealthy habits daily that cause harm to our health, reduce our quality of life and are capable of possibly causing death. Imagine if we were told that a particular tablet caused instant death most people would not even want to even get close, talk less of consuming them.

Lifestyle is defined as the particular way of living. It includes the choices we make, habits we form, and healthy activities we fail to adhere to.

Many lifestyle factors such as the age to start a family, nutrition, weight, exercise, psychological stress, environmental/occupational exposures and others can have substantial effects on fertility. Habits such as cigarette smoking, illicit drug use, alcohol and caffeine consumption has also been found to have negative impact on our fertility.

Clinical infertility as we already know is defined as the inability to become pregnant after 12 months of unprotected intercourse.

It has been estimated that approximately 15 per cent of the population in industrially developed countries are affected. The causes of diagnosed infertility range from ovulatory disorder, tubal disease, endometriosis, chromosomal abnormalities, sperm factors and unexplained infertility. Lifestyle factors have had drastic impact on general health and also the capacity to reproduce. Issues such as smoking and obesity can affect general health and wellbeing. For example, smoking increases an individual’s risk of cardiovascular disease and obesity increases the risk of cardiovascular disease, diabetes, and some cancers etc.

How female fertility is affected by lifestyle choices .Age: This is a crucial factor when attempting pregnancy and has a pivotal role to play. The more you delay your pregnancy, the less fertile you become. This is due to

non-smoker, with menopause reported to occur one to four years earlier for women who smoke compared to non-smokers. Recent study showed an increased thickness of the outer covering of female egg (zona pellucida) in smokers which makes it more difficult for sperm to penetrate. In female the contents of cigarette may affect the follicular micro environment and other hormones.

Women have a significant delay in conception independent of other factors associated with female exposure to both active and passive smoking. Almost twice as many IVF cycles were needed to achieve pregnancies for smokers compared with non-smoker. A large study of women undergoing first IVF cycle reported that there was 28 per cent decrease in life birth rate for smoker compared to non-smoker.

Caffeine: The stimulant properties of caffeine used in most beverages (coffee, tea and soft drinks) and some other food such as chocolates have been reported to prolong the time of pregnancy. Although the mechanism for this is still unclear, caffeine may affect female reproduction by targeting ovulation and corpus luteal function negatively alternating levels of hormone.

Alcohol: A known teratogen agent (an agent or factor which causes malformation of an embryo) and consumption has been reported to decrease fertility, although the level of consumption associated with risk is unclear. Excessive consumption is known to be dangerous for the unborn child causing low birth weight and prematurity. the gradual reduction in the quantity and quality of a woman’s egg occurring over time due to natural aging.

Weight: Women who are underweight or overweight are not likely to have normal ovulation. This is because both extremes condition can have negative impact on hormone production

compared to women who experienced less stress. Stress has been found to alter hormonal levels and inhibit ovulation.

Diet: Maintaining healthy diet is essential to maintaining one’s fertility. Adequate nutrition helps in promoting healthy weight and hormone balance e.g clean water intake is recommended instead of sugary fizzy drinks.

Stress: Women with higher levels of hormones linked to stress (cortisol) have more difficulty in getting and maintaining pregnancy as

Safe sex: Unprotected sex sure predisposes to sexual transmitted diseases which are major causes of infertility e.g. Gonorrhea and Chlamydia. The use of condom, fidelity or abstinence for unmarried individuals remains the best option to stay safe and healthy Smoking: Overall risk of infertility was 95 per cent for smoker compared to

Extreme exercise: While moderate exercise is recommended to keep fit and encourage healthy metabolism, excessive exercise has been found to impact negatively on ovulation.

Cosmetics: Most cosmetics, including nail polish, anti-bacterial soap, anti-aging creams, hair sprays and perfumes have negative effect on the female fertility due to toxic chemicals/ heavy metals eg lead present in some of them.

The use of cosmetics have been associated with increased risk of spontaneous abortion and infertility in some women.

Adequate sleep: Getting a good night’s rest helps to refresh and restore the brain and organ system functioning, thus regulating important body hormones including fertility related hormones. Sleep enhances release of the hormone LH (Luteinizing Hormone) which usually enhances maturation and rupture of the egg in the process called “ovulation” thus increasing the chances of achieving pregnancy.

OPINION

PHYSIOTHERAPY: MY MAGICAL HANDS AND THE WONDERS OF NATURE Morolake Ogunbeku-Bello Many people have probably not heard about Physiotherapy/Physical Therapy. For those who have, the first thing that comes to mind is the word, Massage. This is actually a misconception.

To set the record straight, Masseuse/Masseur is a person who performs massage. However, physiotherapists/physical therapists are a group of Medical Rehabilitation Professionals who assess, diagnose and treat people using exercise, massage, various modalities and approaches.

As a physiotherapist, I give massage but to the surprise of many, it is just one out of at least 100 things I do.

My hands are trained and blessed to put smile on the faces of my patients/clients; when I give manual therapy/manipulation, proprioceptive neuromuscular facilitation, passive mobilisation and resisted movement among others. These are just some of the approaches I mentioned earlier.

I use my hands to give hope to the hopeless and a chance to live again. In fact, you can strip me of every other thing, but as long as I still have my hands, there are no limits to what my patients can get from me. I also manage pain, sometimes with a lot of creativity using some readily available everyday materials.

After my encounter with most patients, their

don't work with other members of the healthcare team. Of course I do!

I am a physiotherapist and I perform healing wonders by the power of nature- look no further because the Physio/Physical part of my profession's name (Physiotherapy/Physical Therapy) is nature.

Henceforth, whenever you hear of physiotherapy, the word, dynamism, should come to your mind.

Physio at home

response has always been, “where have you been?”

For me, physiotherapy as a profession is so outstanding and noble that I have resolved to raise enough awareness about it everywhere I go.

As a physiotherapist, I harness the power of matters and other nature given gifts to bring healing. I maximise the transmission power of waves (electromagnetic and sound) to reach the deep-seated body tissue for the sake of healing. One virtue that distinguishes an average physiotherapist, including me, is perseverance. I don’t give up on patients even when their condition is tagged hopeless and the result of my interventions seems

to be infinitesimal; however, my resiliency power keeps me going and the utilisation of outcome measures gives me something to show for my efforts.

I also utilise the invisible part of light to bring about visible tissue healing whenever I apply infrared and ultraviolet radiations.

How about the soothing effect of water on the body? Physiotherapists employ the thermal property and buoyant effect of water during hydrotherapy sessions for the care of their patients/clients.

Where swallowable pills and injectable drugs fail, physiotherapy gives hope. This is not to say I

You can call me the repairer of the breach because I bring out the beauty in most major surgical procedures.

I utilise the simple law of gravity in physics for postural drainage and oedema control.

I am a lover of nature and nature does assist me well in my treatment and management procedures because nature is found everywhere.

If you call me a nature opportunist, you’re not wrong because nothing can stop me from giving my patients the very best with my hands and with the support of nature around me.

I am a specialist in this field of Medicine and this is my calling; Physiotherapy.

For the sake of my specialty, my title "PT" makes me stand out under the general umbrella of Medicine/Healthcare. .Ogunbeku-Bello wrote from Lagos

36/COLLAGE

Bride’s father, Chief Kingsley Ufere, bride, former Miss Adeku Ufere, groom, Afetsi Awoonor, son of renowned Ghanaian poet, Kofi Awoonor and bride’s mother, Chief (Mrs.) Carolyn Akum Ufere during the traditional marriage of the couple in Ndiamazu Uno, Arondizuogu, Imo State recently

L-R: Business Relationship Manager, Association of Chartered Certified Accountants (ACCA), Lagos and West, Abayomi Quassim; Principal, Corona Secondary School, Agbara, Mrs. Chinedum Oluwadamilola; newly qualified ACCA Foundation Level and Class of 2018 Corona Secondary School graduands, Cherechi Uruakpa; Charles Uwadia; and CEO, Coronal School Trust Council, Mrs. Adeyoyin Adesina, during presentation of awards to the duo of Uruakpa and Uwadia by ACCA representative at the graduation and Valedictory Ceremony of the Class of 2018 of Corona Secondary School, Agbara, Ogun State... recently

15.06.2018

The Newly Crown chief of Izumi II abekuku of Igarra Kingdom, Dan Ukana stepping out of the Oshemi Onayinmi of Igarra Palace into celebrations in lgaarra, Akoko Edo, Edo State...recently

R-L: Governor, Enugu State, Hon Ifeanyi Ugwu; Emeka & Nkechi Ugwu-Oju, Son and daughter in law of the deceased during the burial ceremony for Madam Ezinne Esther Ogwu-Oju at St Patrick Catholic Church, Amogu Aku, lgbo Etiti, LGA, Enugu State...recently Abiodun Ajala

L-R: Media Relations Officer, First City Monument Bank (FCMB), Mr. Rafiu Mohammed; Chairman of Council, Federal Nigeria Society for the Blind, Asiwaju Fola Osibo; Divisional Head, Corporate Services, FCMB, Felicia Obozuwa; Principal, Federal Nigeria Society for the Blind School, Mr. Sola Ogunsiji and Lead, Corporate Social Responsibility & Sustainability of the Bank, Mr. Omoniyi Iyanda, during the May Ball of the Society held in Lagos... recently

L-R: Architect Dayo Owolabi, the graduant Seun Owolabi, Peace Owolabi and Gladys Owolabi during the convocation ceremony of Babcock University, Ilishan-Remo, Ogun State...recently

Osun State Governor, Ogbeni Rauf Aregbesola (right) receiving Post-humous Award of Woman of Influence in honour of his late mother, Alhaja Saratu Aregbesola from the Chief Imam of Offa/ Guest Lecturer, Sheik Muideen Salman Hussain and Chairman Interim Management Committee, Hon Kola Akanji, at the 2018 Ramadan Lecture and presentation of Award on Governor's Mother, late Saratu Aregbesola, organized by the Osun State Broadcasting Corporation (OSBC),in Osogbo...recently

L-R: Publicity Secretary of Afenifere, Yinka Odumakin, Former Governor of Ondo State, Dr Olusegun Mimiko, Afenifere chieftains, Dr Amos Akingba, Professor Banji Akintoye, Pa Ayo Adebanjo, National Treasurer of Afenifere, Chief Supo Shonibare, Professor Akin Onigbinde, and Mrs Titilayo Aboderin, widow of Late Publisher of Punch Newspaper, Wale Aboderin during the condolence visit by the Afenifere group to the Aboderin's residence in Lagos... recently

37/THISLIFE

15.06.2018

‘Girl-child Education is a Critical Issue that Should Not be Treated With Laxity’ The wife of Katsina State governor and founder of the Centre for the Advancement of Mothers and Children, Hajiya Hadiza Aminu Bello Masari in this interview with Francis Sardauna, spoke on some interventionist activities of her NGO in alleviating the plights of women, children and youths in the state, among other issues What informed the formation of your NGO, Centre for the Advancement of Mothers and Children in Katsina State?

The goal of a Non-Governmental Organisation (NGO) can vary widely, depending on its focus, objective and mission. It could cover issues related to improving the lot of a local government, a state or even a nation as a whole.

Ours, Centre for the Advancement of Mothers and Children, however, ranges from improving the human rights of vulnerable mothers and girls, to educating people on salient environmental issues, as well as supporting the arts. Individuals and groups who form NGOs tend to have a passion for their beliefs.

To this end, the goal of my NGO is to improve livelihood particularly that of women, children and youths by channelling their efforts to meaningful life changing courses, thereby reducing their sufferings.

Personally, I have worked for various women groups in Katsina for the past 30 years, I know what they are passing through and I feel their pains. So, when the time was rife, I decided to get myself involved in activities that would improve their lots.

You would be surprised to know that I formed this NGO even before I became the wife of the governor of the state but the name then was not Centre for the Advancement of Mothers and Children. That one then was strictly for mothers alone. This present one started about four years ago, with a mission to upgrade the living standards of women, children and youths in the state.

Accordingly, in my effort to alleviate the plight of windows and orphans in the state, I recently donated grains and clothes worth millions of Naria to them in Funtua Local Government Area of the state. Other areas have also benefitted from similar gesture.

How exactly do you go about improving the living conditions of these women, girls and youth?

Basically, we try to elevate their socio-economic status in various ways. Worthy of mention is the introduction of numerous life improving activities.

We don’t just put them through those activities; we follow up by giving them some start-up capitals that would sustain them to a reasonable extent. I can assure you that this has gone a long way to elevate their socio-economic status as well as changing their world view.

This is not restricted to women, children and youths in the urban areas, but those in the rural areas are also beneficiaries.

You would agree with me that the living conditions of most women in the rural areas aren’t really anything to write home about.

However, the programmes initiated by my NGO have done a lot to improve the quality of lives of some of the women in these areas and a good number of them are today resourceful.

You know drug addiction starts most times, at the early ages of children. I realised that and decided to be going from one school to another; to the nursery, primary and secondary schools across the state, to educate children on the dangers and threat it poses and how to avert the ugly scenario in the state and the country at large.

The missing link, however, has been the absence of an effective information system to mobilise and stimulate them into action.

We are also doing our best in bridging the information gap.

What is your NGO doing to stop the rampant cases of rape?

One of the basic tools to social change is public enlightenment. We engage the media in intensive public enlightenment programmes at schools, social clubs, cultural gatherings, mosques.

Masari

First and foremost, we demystify the myths of sexual assault. You know the thought of engaging in sexual assault begins from the subconscious mind before being ignorantly carried out in real life.

It is this kind of community disposition and ignorance that distracts from tackling the real cause of sexual assault, making it difficult for any preventive efforts to yield any positive result.

My NGO has collaborated with various media organisations in the state to enlighten people on the dangers of rape and sexual violence. The psychological implication of rape and sexual abuse on its innocent victims is so immense, to justify the enactment of any tough legislative measure to curb it.

Furthermore, I partner with women groups, religious bodies and other critical stakeholders in creating the needed awareness.

It has been shown that education of children, especially the girl-child, goes a long way in boosting the socio-economic and socio-cultural status of the society.

You know it is often said that when you educate a girl, you educate the society because it is the women who take care of the children.

So, when they are educated and empowered, the society would be the better for it. You know in our society, parents tend to pay undue attention to the education of their male children over and above the girl-child.

Children, both males and females should be given equal opportunities to excel and prove themselves in all the areas of their lives.

This imbalance, coupled with poverty and ignorance, has led to a situation where children who are supposed to be in the classrooms are

on the streets hawking wares for their parents or care givers, thus making them vulnerable to sexual exploitation and abuse.

Like you said previously, when you educate a girl-child, you empower the nation. Are you also looking into the area of education for the girl-child?

An African proverb says, if you educate a boy, you educate one person; if you educate a girl, you educate a family and a whole nation.

An empowered woman is full of great potentials, strength, courage and knowledge which she passes down to her child and the society.

The solution to high rate of female school dropouts is embarking on enlightenment campaigns on the importance of girl-child education.

So, I have done a lot by spreading the message to as many people as I can reach and I will continue to do so until I see that every girl child, especially in Katsina State is given the opportunity.

Girl-child education is a critical issue that should not be treated with laxity as its impact in the society is immeasurable.

One vital area I would not fail to mention is that girl-child education decreases maternal mortality.

This is because women with formal education tend to have better knowledge about health care practices. You would be surprised to know that this also empowers and improves productivity in the society.

With education women are able to understand salient gynaecological issues and are made

to know what to do when such issues arise.

Girl-child education produces women that easily embrace safe sex, leading to preventive measures thereby reducing the degree of sexually transmitted diseases.

Every child should be given the opportunity to be educated irrespective of his or her gender as both sexes can bring about equal growth and contributions to the society.

What are the challenges you have been confronted with, and how have you been able to tackle them?

Funding is a very major challenge in NGO management. Running an NGO requires a lot of funds to carry out programmes and maintain the organisation.

Unavailability of funds for an NGO could mean a total standstill but I am doing everything humanly possible to sustain my noble NGO. This is one of the reasons why most times, they depend on government for funding.

However, NGOs that depend largely on public finance run the risk of becoming mere government subsidiaries by implementing activities formerly carried out by their own governments or multi-lateral institutions.

In addition to the above factors, one major issue is that at the grassroots level, the bottom line is changing the behaviour of the target population.

This change has to be sustained in such a manner that even after the NGO moves out of the intervention domain the change still remains, even though this is also difficult given the constraints mentioned above.

38/XTRA

15.06.2018

Family Celebrates Loving Matriarch in Death As in Life Burial ceremonies usually evoke grief with attendant avalanche of tears. But during the burial of Nneoma Helen Egobeke Uwagbama of Okpuala Umukabia in Abia state the family dubbed it a celebration of life. In this report Emmanuel Ugwu captures the underlying aspects of the matriarch’s life and time that made her funeral a celebration of life and motherhood In ordinary days Umukabia Okpuala in Ohuhu, Umuahia North Local Government Area of Abia State depicts a rural community, waiting to transit to the hurly-burly of city life. But on the day that Chief Ikechi Emenike’s mother, Nneoma Helen Egobekee Emenike Uwagbama was buried after passing into eternity at 85, Umukabia was roused from its pristine slumber. The matriarch had transited to the great beyond on Christmas Day 2017 and her funeral held on April 7, 2018 turned out to be a celebration of life and motherhood. The community played host to an overwhelming crowd of people that came to join the Emenike family to celebrate the life of the matriarch of the family. Among the huge crowd were governors, senators, ministers, high ranking clerics, captains of industry as well as political and business associates.

The hue of the thousands of people that poured into Umukabia Central School for the celebration of life clearly defined the extensive reach of Chief Emenike in politics, business, media and social interactions. The politicians in their large number erased the dividing lines of their leanings to identify with the Emenike family. As the crème de la crème included Governors Rotimi Akeredolu of Ondo State, Ogbeni Rauf Aregbesola, Osun State, and the host governor, Dr. Okezie Ikpeazu of Abia.

Other high profile personalities were Senators Theodore Orji (Abia Central) Enyinnaya Abaribe (Abia South), Mao Ohuabunwa (Abia North),Dr. Ogbonnaya Onu, who is former governor of Abia and now Minister of Science and Technology, Chief Timipre Silva, former governor of Bayelsa State. President Muhammadu Buhari sent the Minister of Education, Mallam Adamu Adamu to represent him while the former military President, Ibrahim Babangida was represented by Senator Dagash Dangana.

Tributes poured in from family, friends and well wishers attesting to the centrality of motherhood as typified by the late Nneoma Helen Emenike Uwagbama who nurtured and directed her children to fruitful adulthood. Of course in parenthood mothers are usually considered as the ones that make the most impact in the upbringing of children. The role that mothers play in the life of any child sticks out like a thumb from conception to gestation, delivery and nurturing. That is why the Emenike family chose to celebrate the life of their matriarch instead of mourning her passage to eternity. The matriarch not only poured her loving kindness on her children, she strived hard to ensure that all her eight children received good education. The children and relatives did not spare anything in celebrating their matriarch and attesting to her sterling qualities as wife, mother, mentor, guardian, philanthropist and life changer.

The first son of the matriarch, Chief Dickson Ukachukwu Uwagbama was effusive in his tribute. He recounted the sterling qualities of their mother which transcended her nuclei family.

Chief Uwagbama, who is a legal practitioner recalled the major role played by their mother in helping the family to survive the pre war and post war crisis making it possible for “our marching on when the war was over”.

He described their mother as “a role model of a selfless and sacrificial life,” adding that as “a believer in human capital development she never opposed her husband to give education and orientation and empowerment for other relatives and less-privileged”. Indeed he pointed out that their mother manifested the real life of a Christian in her dealings with others and served God and man with faith and cheerful heart. She was a well known benefactor of the Methodist Church while she resided with her family in Jos, Plateau State and continued with that tradition at her local church in Umukabia till her glorious exit.

Looking back right from their infancy to adulthood Uwagbama noted that it was a privilege for him and his siblings to come into this world through a good natured mother. According to him, paths in life’s journey come in different dimensions and experiences, which could be either pleasant or horrible. But it was to the credit of their good mother that the paths of the Emenike generations glitter with pleasant life

Family of the deceased, L-R: High Chief Ikechi Emenike and his Wife Her Excellency, Uzor Ikechi Emenike; Chinedu Emenike; Barr. Dickson Ukachukwu E. Uwagbama and his Wife, Mrs. Ugwudi Chinyere E. Uwagbama

Late Uwagbama

experiences. “Mama, your children are grateful for the privilege of crossing your path…yours, mama, was both a fulfilled and pleasant path that your children will revisit and remain alive in that small closet called memory,” the first born stated. To further point out the good qualities of their mother Uwagbama searched the Holy Bible and drew comparison with some outstanding women of valour and virtue recorded in the holy book. He said: “Like Esther in the Bible she was bold and courageous enough to stand for the truth, to voice her opinion and fight for the good of others even when it meant to sacrifice herself. Like Lydia she was very generous and her heart big enough to help anyone in need.”

Chief Ikechi Emenike, who is a development economist, publisher, businessman and politician, was no less effusive in paying tribute to his dear mother. In fact if he could turn the hand of the clock he would have done it and bring his mother back to the land of the living. He recalled that it was his dear mother that insisted that he and his siblings must further their education even when their father was not so enthusiastic in making education a priority for the children.

“If not for my mother I would have ended up as a roadside mechanic and my senior brother, a roadside panel beater,” he said, adding that his mother insisted and sacrificed to ensure that all her eight children got the best education.

In the tribute entitled ‘Mama lives on!’ Emenike recalled that his mother did not receive western education because education of women was considered an anathema in her days. But “she gave everything to ensure that her children acquired education (as) indeed one of her life-long wishes was to see all her children achieve what she could not.” And she must have died a happy mother and would be happier still at the great beyond having lived to see her dream for her children come true. He was so enamoured of his mother and good qualities that he could not help challenging the Biblical aphorism that man was created in the image of God. Emenike declared instead that “mothers are truly the ones created in the image of God”, adding that mothers are the most kindhearted creatures who make the most sacrifice to see to the upbringing of their children and the welfare of the family. For instance, he recalled that after the civil war when he got admission into the famous Methodist College Uzuakoli his mother had to sell her wrappers to raise money to send him to school. It was a chilling account as he told the story of how he assisted his mother to excavate the trunk box filled with her wrappers which she had buried in the forest when Umuahia fell to the federal forces.

According to the Umukabia high chief, his mother’s milk of human kindness overflowed to

give succour to people outside her family circle as she warmly welcomed any person that came to their home. The beneficiaries of her kindness did not forge hence Emenike was grateful that they fully identified with the family and some of the beneficiaries, as “a fitting tribute travelled all the way from the United States, Europe, Lagos Abuja and other parts of the country to honour” the matriarch of the Emenike Uwagbama family.

The tributes that poured in from the dignitaries highlighted the importance of motherhood and how the late matriarch had positively impacted on her children. President Buhari, who was represented by the Minister of Education, Mallam Adamu Adamu, said that there was need for those in political leadership and high social status to build bridges of understanding and goodwill by using their positions and wealth to help other people.

He noted that he was in Abia State because Chief Ikechi Emenike, a chieftain of the All Progressives Congress (APC) and one of the children of the deceased, “is a bridge builder among us” who has used his endowment and position to help people and make them realise their goals in life.

Governor Aregbesola said that he was in Abia to testify to the deep human character of Chief Emenike, “who is a man of honour and dignity” while Governor Akeredolu urged Emenike to be happy for being alive to bury his mother. The Ondo governor, who dressed in the traditional Isiagu traditional Igbo attire, described himself as “Yoruba Igbo” more so as he took his wife from the South-east zone. He emphasised the need for Nigerians to see themselves as one people and work in tandem for peace, unity and national development. Governor Ikpeazu in his remarks noted that Mama Uwagbama lived a good life as exemplified by the quality of her children, adding that the family should immortalise the good virtues of their matriarch.

With the array of politicians that graced the occasion the Prelate Emeritus, Methodist Church of Nigeria, His Eminence Dr. Sunday Mbang did not lose the chance to deliver a strong message to them. He warned politicians against indulging in politics of blackmail as 2019 general election fast approaches. He said that politicians erroneously believe they could control time only to find out that when it was already late that they were leaving in fools’ paradise. “Today God has asked me to tell you that whatever you plan you have no control over time,” he announced to the hearing of the large number of politicians at the event.

The cleric therefore enjoined political leaders that preside over the affairs of the ordinary people to emulate the selfless disposition of the late matriarch of the Emenike family, who has left everlasting memory in the hearts of those that crossed her path while she lived.

T H I S D AY ˾ FRIDAY JUNE 15, 2018

39

40

T H I S D AY • FRIDAY, JUNE 15, 2018

BUSINESS/MONEYGUIDE

Again, CBN Intervenes with Fresh $343 Million The Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) has again intervened in the retail Secondary Market Intervention Sales (SMIS) to the tune of $343.06 million.

Figures made available by the bank yesterday indicate that the amount released was for requests in the agricultural, airlines, petroleum products and raw materials and machinery sectors.

The Acting Director,

Corporate Communications at the CBN, Isaac Okorafor confirmed this, saying the continued intervention were in line with the assurances made by the CBN Governor, Mr. Godwin Emefiele, to sustain market liquidity in order to boost production and trade and maintain stability in the forex market.

Speaking further, Okorafor assured stakeholders that the

CBN remained very committed to ensuring that all the sectors continue to enjoy access to the foreign exchange required for the business concerns.

The CBN recently injected the sum of $210 million into the interbank foreign exchange market.

Meanwhile, the naira exchanged at N362/$1 in the Bureau De Change segment of the market yesterday.

Nigeria, Others Lose $160tr Due to Earning Gaps Globally, countries are losing $160 trillion in wealth because of differences in lifetime earnings between women and men.

This amounts to an average of $23,620 for each person in the 141 countries studied in a new report by the World Bank Group. The report titled: “Unrealised Potential: The High Cost of Gender Inequality in Earnings,” examined the economic cost of gender inequality in lost human capital.

“The world is essentially leaving $160 trillion on the table when we neglect inequality in earnings over the lifetime between men and women,” World Bank Chief Executive Officer, Kristalina Georgieva said. “This is a stark reminder that world leaders need to act now and act decisively to invest in policies that promote more and better jobs for women and equal pay at work,” Georgieva added.

According to the report, in nearly every country today, women face barriers to fully

participate in the work force and earn as much as men.

Because of this, women account for only 38 percent of their country’s human capital wealth, defined as the value of the future earnings of their adult citizens—versus 62 percent for men.

In low income and lower-middle income countries, women account for just a third or less of human capital wealth.

Programmes and policies that make it easier for women to get to work, access basic infrastructure and financial services, and control land could help achieve gender equality in earnings, the report stated.

“Human capital wealth accounts for two thirds of the global changing wealth of nations, well ahead of natural and other forms of capital,” World Bank Group Lead Economist and author of the report, Quentin Wodon explained.

Wodon added: “Because women earn less than men, hu-

man capital wealth worldwide is about 20 percent lower than it could be.”

The losses in wealth from inequality in earnings between men and women vary by region. The largest losses—each between $40 trillion and $50 trillion—are observed in East Asia and the Pacific, North America, and Europe and Central Asia. This is because these regions account for most of the world’s human capital wealth.

Losses in other regions are also substantial. In South Asia, losses from gender inequality are estimated at $9.1 trillion, while they are estimated at $6.7 trillion in Latin America and the Caribbean and $3.1 trillion in the Middle East and North Africa. In Sub-Saharan Africa, the losses are estimated at $2.5 trillion. While losses in low income countries are smaller in absolute terms than in other regions, as a share of the initial endowment in human capital, the losses are larger than for the world.

L-R: Non-executive Director, Propertygate Development and Investment Plc, Mr Peter Folikwe; Company Secretary, Mrs Janet Fifo; Managing Director/CEO, Mr Adetokunbo Ajayi; and non -executive Director, Mr Jonathan Oluwole, at the company’s Annual General Meeting (AGM) held in Lagos...recently YOMI AKINYELE

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)

Firm Records N1bn Loan Disbursement in OneYear Nume Ekeghe Branch International, a digital financial firm, which majorly disburses instant loans through its mobile application (app) said it disbursed N1 billion loans since its inception one year ago.

The firm revealed this at media briefing in Lagos yesterday.

The Country Manager, Branch Nigeria, Mrs. Maria Rotilu, who disclosed this said: “We have been in the country for about a year now and the growth has been great.

I think what is fascinating about it is that it underscores the fact that there is a need here.

“Since we started, we have issued over 100,000 loans with over 250,000 and we have disbursed over N1 billion.”

Also, the CEO & Co-founder Branch International Mr. Matthew Flannery said the mission of the firm is to provide world class financial services to the mobile generation, adding that it decided to start with loans because it is a way to appeal to the general public and gain lots of users.

“I couldn’t be more thrilled to be working in Nigeria with Branch. The start-up community is incredibly dynamic, and the country is poised for a fintech explosion. “The early response from our customers shows that there is a massive need for a product like Branch.

We hope to play a significant role in increasing access to modern financial services in Nigeria over the next decade.”

Branch offers a unique proposition to the average Nigerian, providing users with access to instant loans on their mobile devices. Android smartphone users can receive loans between N3,000 to N150,000 requiring no face-to-face meetings, lengthy application processes, collateral or paperwork. “As branch customers repay their loan, they unlock access to larger loan amounts and more flexible terms. More than 75 per cent of customers use Branch loans to help start or grow their business or meet financial obligations.

Notwithstanding, Branch has no restrictions on the usage of the loans; customers are given the independence to make their own financial decisions,” the firm explained.

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

ReadyBargains Unveils Online Platform

3 Months Deposit Rate

9.72

Jonathan Eze

6 Months Deposit Rate

10.93

12 Months Deposit Rate

10.21

Prime Lending rate

17.35

Maximum Lending Rate

31.55

ReadyBargains online business has launched an online platform to allow Nigerians who love shopping online visit shops online, make purchases and get them delivered to their choice locations. “Our goal is to meet the needs of different classes of people looking for good bargains,” the Chairman, ReadyBargains, Don Okhuofu said during the launch of the platform recently.

“Customers using our platform have access to shop from different UK and US stores using a single cart and a $10 off cart coupon available

to the first basket checked out by every customer.

“The products are delivered to our customers across the country at their door steps of collection points of their choices,” Okhuofu said.

According to him, the platform gives users a 10- 15 percent cost reduction, compared with that of competitors.

He noted that all users have access to an additional $10 off every purchases of above $100 made from Walmart, Tesco, Carters and Mothercare.

“The risks of getting fake products from our services are remote because users shop directly from the foreign stores

themselves. We assure users of quality products because they deal directly with the producers,” he further said.

Speaking on the challenging environment for e-commerce operators in the country, Okhuofu stated that the seeming failure of e-commerce business was because of their cost/ revenue structure. He noted that most e-commerce firms have constantly allowed their cost to be higher than their revenue.

Okhuofu said ReadyBargains would always seek to match its cost and revenue, saying this would ensure sustainability of the business.

(MILLION NAIRA) 2018

Month

• Monetary Policy Rate - 13%

OPEC DAILY BASKET PRICE AS AT, WED, 13 JUNE , 2018 The price of OPEC basket of fourteen crudes stood at $73.35 a barrel on Wednesday, compared with $74.11 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

41

T H I S D AY • FRIDAY, JUNE 15, 2018

MARKET NEWS

NSE Boss Tasks Stockbroking Firms on Investment in Agric Sector speaking at a symposium themed: “Tapping into Investment Opportunities in Agribusiness Value Chain,” that was organised by the NSE and the Nigerian Stockbrokers Agribusiness Group (NSBAG), to mark the 2018 World Agriculture Day(WAGD) in Lagos. WAGD is celebrated on June 11, as an annual event aimed at highlighting the importance of agriculture

Goddy Egene and Nosa Alekhuogie The Chief Executive Officer of the Nigerian Stock Exchange (NSE), Mr. Oscar Onyema, has urged stockbroking firms and players in the agriculture sector to develop financial products that would attract investments to the sector.

Onyema said this while

to economic development as well as call for solutions to the challenges faced in the sector.

In his goodwill message delivered by the Group Head, Corporate Communications, Mr. Olumide Orojimi, Onyema said the Exchange had always played a crucial role in the agricultural business sector and has five companies listed on the exchange. The companies are: Ellah Lakes Plc; FTN Cocoa

Processors Plc; Livestock Feeds Plc; Okomu Oil Palm Plc and Presco Plc.The NSE boss, who lauded NSBAG for the initiative around the symposium, urged dealing member firms and agriculture sector players to work together to develop an agro-product for the capital market.

The keynote speaker and Co-founder of Cellulant Nigeria, Mr. Bolaji Akinboro

PRICES FOR SECURITIES TRADED AS OF Price List (Equities) PRICES FOR PREMIUM BOARD SECURITIES FINANCIAL SERVICES S/N 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30 31 32 33 34 35 36 37 38 39 40 41 42 43 44 45 46 47 48 49 50 51 52 53 54 55 56 57 58 59 60 61 62 63 64 65 66 67 68 69 70 71 72 73 74 75 76 77 78 79 80 81 82 83 84 85 86 87 88 89 90 91 92 93 94

COMPANY ACCESS AFRIPRUD AGLEVENT AIICO AIRSERVICE ARBICO BERGER BETAGLAS CADBURY CAP CAPHOTEL CAPOIL CAVERTON CCNN CHAMPION CILEASING CONOIL CONTINSURE CORNERST COURTVILLE CUSTODIAN CUTIX CWG DAARCOMM DANGCEM DANGFLOUR DANGSUGAR DEAPCAP DIAMONDBNK DUNLOP EQUITYASUR ETERNA ETI ETRANZACT FBNH FCMB FIDELITYBK FIDSON FIRSTALUM FLOURMILL FO FTNCOCOA GLAXOSMITH GUARANTY GUINEAINS GUINNESS HMARKINS HONYFLOUR IKEJAHOTEL INFINITY INITSPLC INTBREW INTERLINK JAIZBANK JAPAULOIL JBERGER JOHNHOLT LASACO LAWUNION LEARNAFRCA LINKASSURE LIVESTOCK MANSARD MAYBAKER MBENEFIT MOBIL MRS MULTITREX MULTIVERSE NAHCO NASCON NB NCR NEIMETH NEM NESTLE NIGERINS NPFMCRFBK NSLTECH OANDO OKOMUOIL PORTPAINT PRESCO PRESTIGE PZ REDSTAREX ROYALEX RTBRISCOE SCOA SEPLAT SKYEBANK SKYESHELT SOVRENINS STACO

PCLOSE 10.85 4.30 0.53 0.65 4.50 4.79 8.55 87.35 12.50 36.80 3.10 0.33 2.25 26.50 1.98 1.61 32.00

OPEN 10.70 4.30 0.51 0.68 13.00 2.22 2.00 1.68 -

HIGH 10.75 4.30 0.51 0.71 13.00 2.22 1.99 1.68 -

LOW 10.65 4.30 0.51 0.65 13.00 2.22 1.90 1.68 -

%SPREAD 0.93 8.45 4.52 -

CLOSE CHANGE 10.65 -0.20 4.30 0.51 -0.02 0.65 4.50 4.79 8.55 87.35 13.00 0.50 36.80 3.10 0.33 2.22 -0.03 26.50 1.99 0.01 1.68 0.07 32.00 -

%CHANGE -1.84 -3.77 6.15 4.00 -1.33 0.51 4.35 -

TRADES 111 42 5 67 2 2 13 10 12 7 3 2 24 33 26 18 27

1.44

-

-

-

-

1.44

-

-

6

0.35 0.20 5.02 3.14 2.54 0.48 235.80 10.65 19.90 0.48

0.34 3.02 238.80 10.65 20.10 -

239.00 10.70 21.10 -

238.80 10.65 19.50 -

0.08 0.47 7.58 -

0.35 0.20 5.02 3.14 2.54 0.48 239.00 10.70 19.50 0.48

3.20 0.05 -0.40 -

1.36 0.47 -2.01 -

4 1 7 24 3 1 87 54 157 1

VOLUME 2,510,523 49,573,930 279,555 4,099,470 10,000 105 60,524 3,780 138,009 3,539 11,880 5,200 814,862 220,909 1,325,097 318,400 43,272

VALUE 26,889,858.80 213,159,087.97 142,641.84 2,825,249.65 43,000.00 501.80 494,300.60 315,300.00 1,786,399.75 123,865.00 35,640.00 1,664.00 1,806,367.95 5,788,580.15 2,574,394.28 522,426.20 1,380,618.90

14,000

20,490.00

83,709 27,855.06 10,000 2,000.00 157,121 825,441.71 401,342 1,264,754.14 2,600 6,886.72 6,000 2,760.00 2,186,951 522,669,704.70 498,697 5,320,234.55 56,886,870 1,185,035,004.90 100 46.00

1.62

1.60

1.68

1.59

5.36

1.60

-0.02

-1.23

94

6,561,391

0.30

-

-

-

-

0.30

-

-

1

1,666

10,676,824.54 483.14

0.21

0.21

0.22

0.21

4.55

0.22

0.01

4.76

7

1,100,000

240,500.00

6.25 20.00 4.55 10.85 2.40 2.34 6.00 0.40 33.00 37.00 0.20 19.20 41.60 0.38 99.75 0.28 2.31 2.53 1.42 0.76 41.75 3.61 0.66 0.33 27.50 0.55 0.36 0.86 1.44 0.87 0.87 2.49 2.45 0.35 174.30 34.25 0.40 0.20 4.20 24.00 118.00 6.30 0.63 2.50 1,450.20 0.26 1.65 0.48 6.90 82.00 2.05 73.70 0.64 20.75 5.95 0.34 0.46 3.25 711.10 0.76 95.00 0.27 0.48

5.97 11.20 2.33 2.37 33.00 0.20 41.50 97.00 0.29 2.35 2.65 43.70 0.34 0.37 0.88 2.50 0.34 174.30 23.95 117.50 0.63 2.55 1,495.00 0.27 1.68 6.95 2.05 0.61 0.35 745.00 0.79 0.26 -

5.97 11.25 2.33 2.36 33.00 43.60 97.00 0.29 2.35 2.61 0.34 0.37 0.88 2.45 0.34 183.00 23.95 117.50 0.63 2.62 1,495.00 0.27 1.72 6.95 2.05 0.61 0.35 769.00 0.79 0.26 -

5.97 10.95 2.30 2.29 32.30 41.00 97.00 0.29 2.35 2.61 0.34 0.37 0.88 2.45 0.34 174.30 23.10 117.10 0.63 2.55 1,495.00 0.25 1.72 6.70 2.05 0.61 0.35 769.00 0.76 0.26 -

5.97 20.00 4.55 2.67 11.20 1.29 2.30 2.97 2.30 6.00 0.40 2.12 32.30 37.00 0.20 19.20 5.96 41.50 0.38 97.00 0.29 2.35 2.61 1.42 0.76 41.75 3.61 0.66 0.34 27.50 0.55 0.37 0.86 1.44 0.88 0.87 2.49 2.45 0.34 4.75 183.00 34.25 0.40 0.20 4.20 3.55 23.10 0.34 117.10 6.30 0.63 2.67 2.62 - 1,495.00 7.41 0.25 1.72 0.48 3.60 6.90 82.00 2.05 73.70 0.61 20.75 5.95 0.35 0.46 3.25 769.00 3.80 0.76 95.00 0.26 0.48

-0.28 0.35 -0.10 -0.04 -0.70 -0.10 -2.75 0.01 0.04 0.08 0.01 0.01 0.01 -0.01 8.70 -0.90 -0.90 0.12 44.80 -0.01 0.07 -0.03 0.01 57.90 -0.01 -

-4.48 3.23 -4.17 -1.71 -2.12 -0.24 -2.76 3.57 1.73 3.16 3.03 2.78 1.15 -2.86 4.99 -3.75 -0.76 4.80 3.09 -3.85 4.24 -2.90 -4.69 2.94 8.14 1.32 -3.70 -

25 23 1 255 83 139 14 1 82 20 2 6 286 2 32 28 24 19 3 1 21 1 12 28 10 1 14 2 9 4 6 4 28 7 19 25 1 3 13 65 138 1 12 38 32 20 10 1 103 14 5 9 8 14 5 7 1 1 54 35 1 11 1

1,004,783 6,003,633.84 83,589 1,672,135.20 150 652.50 11,299,790 125,459,137.75 4,048,598 9,418,422.90 8,565,372 19,963,618.39 42,500 242,700.00 10,000 3,900.00 667,140 21,885,312.20 42,652 1,538,599.95 14,105 2,821.00 4,553 90,596.20 45,275,658 1,916,920,925.30 120 44.40 2,356,052 228,750,513.30 1,324,553 384,120.37 640,726 1,505,555.41 350,900 936,076.80 200 270.00 100 76.00 67,781 2,846,151.85 50 180.50 158,958 106,550.86 2,515,766 855,360.44 18,087 483,442.20 2,484 1,316.52 276,106 99,465.22 2,200 1,892.00 110,203 160,995.35 261,500 230,120.00 41,700 35,514.20 10,970 27,524.00 1,052,711 2,580,639.13 631,000 214,540.00 54,324 9,646,933.90 86,836 3,021,779.10 2,500 950.00 20,200 4,040.00 85,079 351,479.96 1,583,001 37,050,927.40 541,556 63,604,177.30 400 2,400.00 1,245,208 782,530.80 1,753,192 4,500,561.25 60,494 90,434,922.10 1,469,583 379,588.18 306,270 512,423.10 7,000 3,220.00 2,185,331 14,964,497.15 41,428 3,464,183.65 306,150 627,607.50 14,742 1,049,173.20 315,711 193,625.71 111,181 2,204,225.45 25,090 151,932.50 321,371 111,756.58 12,460 5,482.40 50 154.50 60,322 44,198,197.20 2,520,296 1,938,309.56 20 1,806.00 382,000 99,605.00 300 138.00

in his presentation averred that agriculture must be seen as a business, for the value chain to grow across the nation.

Akinboro said as a leading agric-fintech firm, Cellulant had successfully raised $47.5 million and been focused on providing service delivery and investments in the sector.

According to him, Nigeria’s agro industry is currently valued at about $50 billion while that of

A S AT 1 2 / 0 6 / 2 0 1 8

Africa was pegged at the range of about $450 billion, indicating massive investment opportunities. The event also featured a panel session with Head, Agric Finance, Diamond Bank Plc, Lois Sankey; President, Chartered Institute of Stockbrokers, Mr. Adedapo Adekoje; Ag CEO, Lagos Commodities Exchange, Mr Akinsola Akeredolu-Ale; Doyen of stockbrokers, Mr. Samuel Ndanta as panelists.

˾ FRIDAY, JUNE 15, 2018

42

Nigeria Daily Stock Market Report:

THISDAY AFRINVEST 40 INDEX

d,/^ z &Z/Es ^d ϰϬ KEd/Eh dK KhdW Z&KZD E^ ^/ Θ E^ ϯϬ /E y dŚĞ dŚŝƐ ĂLJ ĨƌŝŶǀĞƐƚ ϰϬ ŝŶĚĞdž ǁĂƐ ĐƌĞĂƚĞĚ Ă LJĞĂƌ ĂŐŽ ;:ƵŶĞ ϱƚŚ ϮϬϭϳͿ ĐŽŶƐŝƐƟŶŐ ŽĨ ϰϬ ƐƚŽĐŬƐ ǁŚŝĐŚ ĐƵƚ ĂĐƌŽƐƐ ƚŚĞ ǀĂƌŝŽƵƐ ƐĞĐƚŽƌƐ ŽŶ ƚŚĞ EŝŐĞƌŝĂŶ ^ƚŽĐŬ džĐŚĂŶŐĞ͘ dŚĞƐĞ ƐƚŽĐŬƐ ǁĞƌĞ ƐĞůĞĐƚĞĚ ďĂƐĞĚ ŽŶ ƚŚĞŝƌ ůŝƋƵŝĚŝƚLJ͕ ƚƌĂĚĂďŝůŝƚLJ ;ŇŽĂƚͿ ĂŶĚ ƐŝnjĞ ;ŵĂƌŬĞƚ ĐĂƉŝƚĂůŝnjĂƟŽŶͿ͘ ŽůůĞĐƟǀĞůLJ͕ ƚŚĞƐĞ ƐƚŽĐŬƐ ĂĐĐŽƵŶƚ ĨŽƌ ϵϰ͘Ϭй ŽĨ ƚŽƚĂů ŵĂƌŬĞƚ ĐĂƉŝƚĂůŝnjĂƟŽŶ ĂŶĚ ĂƉƉƌŽdžŝŵĂƚĞůLJ ϰϮ͘Ϭй ŽĨ ƚƌĂĚĂďůĞ ŇŽĂƚ͘ Ɛ Ăƚ dŚƵƌƐĚĂLJ͕ ϭϰƚŚ ŽĨ :ƵŶĞ ϮϬϭϴ͕ ƚŚĞ ĨƌŝŶǀĞƐƚ ϰϬ ŝŶĚĞdž ƌĞĐŽƌĚĞĚ Ă ůŽƐƐ ŽĨ ͲϬ͘ϯϵй ƚŽ ĐůŽƐĞ ůŽǁĞƌ Ăƚ ϭ͕ϲϮϮ͘Ϯϴ ƉŽŝŶƚƐ ǁŚŝůĞ ŝƚƐ zd ƌĞƚƵƌŶ ĨĞůů ƚŽ ϱ͘Ϯй͘ dŚĞ zd ƌĞƚƵƌŶ ŽĨ ƚŚĞ dŚŝƐ ĂLJ ĨƌŝŶǀĞƐƚ ϰϬ ƐƵƌƉĂƐƐĞƐ ƚŚĞ zd ƌĞƚƵƌŶ ŽĨ ƚŚĞ E^ Ͳ ůů ^ŚĂƌĞ /ŶĚĞdž ǁŚŝĐŚ ŝƐ ϭ͘ϴй ĂŶĚ ƚŚĂƚ ŽĨ ƚŚĞ E^ ϯϬ͕ ǁŚŝĐŚ ŝƐ Ϭ͘ϴй͘ zĞƐƚĞƌĚĂLJ͛Ɛ ŶĞŐĂƟǀĞ ƉĞƌĨŽƌŵĂŶĐĞ ŝŶ ƚŚĞ dŚŝƐĚĂLJ ĨƌŝŶǀĞƐƚ ϰϬ ǁĂƐ ĚƵĞ ƚŽ ůŽƐƐĞƐ ŝŶ E/d, ;Ͳϭ͘ϯйͿ͕ E/' Z/ E Z t Z/ ^ ;Ͳϰ͘ϯйͿ ĂŶĚ & E, ;ͲϬ͘ϱйͿ ǁŚŝĐŚ ĐƵŵƵůĂƟǀĞůLJ ĂĐĐŽƵŶƚƐ ĨŽƌ Ϯϲ͘Ϯй ŽĨ ƚŚĞ ŝŶĚĞdž͘ ĞĂƌŝƐŚ WĞƌĨŽƌŵĂŶĐĞ džƚĞŶĚƐ ŝŶƚŽ ^ĞĐŽŶĚ ŽŶƐĞĐƵƟǀĞ ^ĞƐƐŝŽŶ͙ E^ ^/ ĚŽǁŶ Ϭ͘ϯй ^ƵƐƚĂŝŶĞĚ ƉƌŽĮƚ ƚĂŬŝŶŐ ŝŶ LJĞƐƚĞƌĚĂLJ͛Ɛ ƚƌĂĚŝŶŐ ƐĞƐƐŝŽŶ ĚƌĂŐŐĞĚ ƚŚĞ ĚŽŵĞƐƟĐ ďŽƵƌƐĞ ĨŽƌ ƚŚĞ ƐĞĐŽŶĚ ĐŽŶƐĞĐƵƟǀĞ ƐĞƐƐŝŽŶ ĂƐ ƚŚĞ ďĞŶĐŚŵĂƌŬ ŝŶĚĞdž ĨĞůů Ϭ͘ϯй ƚŽ ϯϴ͕ϵϮϴ͘ϰϳ ƉŽŝŶƚƐ ǁŚŝůĞ zd ƌĞƚƵƌŶ ǁĞĂŬĞŶĞĚ ƚŽ ϭ͘ϴй͘ zĞƐƚĞƌĚĂLJ͛Ɛ ďĞĂƌŝƐŚ ƉĞƌĨŽƌŵĂŶĐĞ ǁĂƐ ĂƐ Ă ƌĞƐƵůƚ ŽĨ ůŽƐƐĞƐ ŝŶ ůĂƌŐĞ ĐĂƉ ƐƚŽĐŬƐ ʹ E/' Z/ E Z t Z/ ^ ;Ͳϰ͘ϰйͿ͕ E/d, ;Ͳϭ͘ϯйͿ ĂŶĚ ^ W> d ;Ͳϭ͘ϴйͿ͘ ĐĐŽƌĚŝŶŐůLJ͕ ŝŶǀĞƐƚŽƌƐ ůŽƐƚ Eϭϲϰ͘ϮďŶ ĂƐ ŵĂƌŬĞƚ ĐĂƉŝƚĂůŝƐĂƟŽŶ ĚŝƉƉĞĚ ƚŽ Eϭϰ͘ϬƚŶ͘ ĐƟǀŝƚLJ ůĞǀĞů ǁĂƐ ŵŝdžĞĚ ĂƐ ǀŽůƵŵĞ ƚƌĂĚĞĚ ĚĞĐůŝŶĞĚ Ϯϲ͘ϰй ƚŽ ϯϯϱ͘ϳŵ ƵŶŝƚƐ ǁŚŝůĞ ǀĂůƵĞ ƚƌĂĚĞĚ ƌŽƐĞ ϭϭ͘ϰй ƚŽ Eϰ͘ϲƚŶ͘ dŚĞ ƚŽƉ ƚƌĂĚĞĚ ƐƚŽĐŬƐ ďLJ ǀŽůƵŵĞ ǁĞƌĞ h W ;ϭϬϭ͘ϲŵͿ͕ h ;ϲϲ͘ϭŵͿ ĂŶĚ / DKE ;ϮϬ͘ϮŵͿ ǁŚŝůĞ E/' Z/ E Z t Z/ ^ ;EϳϱϮ͘ϴŵͿ͕ h ;EϳϮϬ͘ϴŵͿ ĂŶĚ E' D ;EϲϵϬ͘ϭŵͿ ǁĞƌĞ ƚŚĞ ŵŽƐƚ ƚƌĂĚĞĚ ƐƚŽĐŬƐ ďLJ ǀĂůƵĞ͘ DŝdžĞĚ ^ĞĐƚŽƌ WĞƌĨŽƌŵĂŶĐĞ ĐƌŽƐƐ ƐĞĐƚŽƌƐ͕ ƉĞƌĨŽƌŵĂŶĐĞ ǁĂƐ ŵŝdžĞĚ ĂƐ Ϯ ŽĨ ϱ ŝŶĚŝĐĞƐ ĐůŽƐĞĚ ŝŶ ƚŚĞ ŐƌĞĞŶ͘ dŚĞ /ŶƐƵƌĂŶĐĞ ĂŶĚ /ŶĚƵƐƚƌŝĂů 'ŽŽĚƐ ŝŶĚŝĐĞƐ ĂĚǀĂŶĐĞĚ ϭ͘ϴй ĂŶĚ Ϭ͘ϭй ƌĞƐƉĞĐƟǀĞůLJ ĚƵĞ ƚŽ ŐĂŝŶƐ ŝŶ h^dK / E ;нϱ͘ϬйͿ͕ D E^ Z ;нϰ͘ϴйͿ͕ E D ;нϰ͘ϳйͿ ĂŶĚ t W K ;нϬ͘ϯйͿ͘ KŶ ƚŚĞ ŽƚŚĞƌ ŚĂŶĚ͕ ƚŚĞ ŽŶƐƵŵĞƌ 'ŽŽĚƐ ŝŶĚĞdž ǁĂƐ ƚŚĞ ǁŽƌƐƚ ƉĞƌĨŽƌŵĞƌ͕ ĚŽǁŶ ϭ͘Ϭй ĚƵĞ ƚŽ ůŽƐƐĞƐ ŝŶ E'&>KhZ ;ͲϬ͘ϱйͿ͕ /Ed Z t ;Ͳϭ͘ϭйͿ ĂŶĚ E/' Z/ E Z t Z/ ^ ;Ͳϰ͘ϰйͿ͘ >ŝŬĞǁŝƐĞ͕ ƚŚĞ Kŝů Θ 'ĂƐ ĂŶĚ ĂŶŬŝŶŐ ŝŶĚŝĐĞƐ ĚĞĐůŝŶĞĚ Ϭ͘ϵй ĂŶĚ Ϭ͘ϯй ƌĞƐƉĞĐƟǀĞůLJ ĂƐ Ă ƌĞƐƵůƚ ŽĨ ƉƌŽĮƚ ƚĂŬŝŶŐ ŝŶ &KZd ;ͲϬ͘ϭйͿ͕ ^ W> d ;Ͳϭ͘ϴйͿ͕ E/d, ;Ͳ ϭ͘ϯйͿ͕ ^^ ;ͲϬ͘ϱйͿ ĂŶĚ &/ >/dz ;Ͳϭ͘ϳйͿ͘ /ŶǀĞƐƚŽƌ ^ĞŶƟŵĞŶƚ ^ƚƌĞŶŐƚŚĞŶƐ /ŶǀĞƐƚŽƌ ƐĞŶƟŵĞŶƚ ĂƐ ŵĞĂƐƵƌĞĚ ďLJ ŵĂƌŬĞƚ ďƌĞĂĚƚŚ ;ĂĚǀĂŶĐĞͬĚĞĐůŝŶĞ ƌĂƟŽͿ ƐƚƌĞŶŐƚŚĞŶĞĚ ƚŽϭ͘ϲdž ĨƌŽŵ Ϭ͘ϵdž ŝŶ ƚŚĞ ƉƌĞǀŝŽƵƐ ƐĞƐƐŝŽŶ ĂƐ ϯϳ ƐƚŽĐŬƐ ĂĚǀĂŶĐĞĚ ƌĞůĂƟǀĞ ƚŽ Ϯϭ ƐƚŽĐŬƐ ƚŚĂƚ ĚĞĐůŝŶĞĚ͘ dŚĞ ƚŽƉ ƉĞƌĨŽƌŵŝŶŐ ƐƚŽĐŬƐ LJĞƐƚĞƌĚĂLJ ǁĞƌĞ K<KDhK/> ;нϭϬ͘ϮйͿ͕ /< : ,Kd > ;нϵ͘ϮйͿ ĂŶĚ : W h>K/> ;нϱ͘ϲйͿ ǁŚŝůĞ hE/KE ;Ͳϰ͘ϴйͿ͕ E /D d, ;Ͳϰ͘ϴйͿ ĂŶĚ > thE/KE ;Ͳϰ͘ϳйͿ ǁĞƌĞ ƚŚĞ ǁŽƌƐƚ ƉĞƌĨŽƌŵŝŶŐ ƐƚŽĐŬƐ͘ ĞƐƉŝƚĞ ƚŚĞ ŶĞŐĂƟǀĞ ƉĞƌĨŽƌŵĂŶĐĞ͕ ŝŶǀĞƐƚŽƌ ƐĞŶƟŵĞŶƚ ƐƚƌĞŶŐƚŚĞŶĞĚ LJĞƐƚĞƌĚĂLJ͘ ŽŶƐĞƋƵĞŶƚůLJ͕ ǁĞ ĞdžƉĞĐƚ Ă ƌĞďŽƵŶĚ ŝŶ ƚŚĞ ĐŽŵŝŶŐ ǁĞĞŬ ĂƐ ŝŶǀĞƐƚŽƌƐ ƚĂŬĞ ĂĚǀĂŶƚĂŐĞ ŽĨ ďĂƌŐĂŝŶ ŚƵŶƟŶŐ ŽƉƉŽƌƚƵŶŝƟĞƐ͘

Afrinvest Securities Limited (RC 603 315) (A Dealing Member of the Nigerian Stock Exchange)

Friday, June 15, 2018

Fundamental Performance Metrics for THISDAY AFRINVEST 40 Index

Ticker

Current Price

Price Change Index to Date

ROE

ROA

P/E

P/BV

5.2%

62.2%

19.4%

7.0%

7.8x

1.0x

Previous Price Current Price Change Weighting Change YTD

THISDAY AFRINVEST 40 1,622.28

-0.39% 0.0%

Divinden Earnings d Yield Yield

5.1%

10.6%

1

Guaranty Trust Bank PLC

41.50

20.7%

1.8%

2.3%

32.6%

5.2%

6.7x

2.3x

6.5%

14.8%

2

Zenith Bank PLC

26.40

-1.3%

12.8%

3.0%

1.8%

26.3%

3.6%

4.4x

1.1x

10.2%

22.6%

3

Nigerian Brew eries PLC

110.00

-4.3%

7.0%

-18.5%

-18.5%

17.4%

8.3%

27.6x

4.7x

3.8%

3.6%

4

Nestle Nigeria PLC

1,495.00

0.0%

7.4%

-3.9%

-3.9%

73.3%

18.9%

34.9x

22.2x

2.8%

2.9%

5

Dangote Cement PLC

239.00

0.0%

6.1%

3.9%

3.9%

22.7%

12.0%

20.7x

4.8x

4.4%

4.8%

-0.5%

6

FBN Holdings Plc

10.85

6.5%

23.3%

23.4%

6.7%

0.8%

7.8x

0.6x

2.3%

12.8%

7

Access Bank PLC

10.60

-0.5%

4.3%

1.4%

0.0%

12.7%

1.5%

5.2x

0.7x

6.1%

19.2%

8

United Bank for Africa PLC

11.00

0.5%

4.5%

6.8%

5.7%

15.9%

1.9%

4.9x

0.8x

7.7%

20.6%

9

Ecobank Transnational Inc

20.00

0.0%

3.7%

17.6%

22.9%

12.9%

1.0%

6.6x

0.9x

10

SEPLAT Petroleum Development C

754.90

-1.8%

3.5%

20.5%

20.5%

22.3%

13.2%

3.9x

0.8x

2.4%

25.9%

11

Stanbic IBTC Holdings PLC

49.00

1.0%

3.3%

18.1%

19.8%

30.8%

4.1%

9.3x

2.6x

1.0%

10.8%

12

Unilever Nigeria PLC

55.00

0.0%

3.2%

34.1%

36.8%

19.2%

8.0%

29.4x

4.0x

0.9%

3.4%

13

Guinness Nigeria PLC

97.00

0.0%

2.3%

3.2%

3.2%

15.4%

6.1%

18.5x

2.5x

0.7%

5.4%

14

Lafarge Africa PLC

39.10

0.3%

1.4%

-12.9%

-12.9%

-36.8%

-7.7%

2.2x

3.8%

-15.8%

15

Fidelity Bank PLC

2.27

-1.7%

1.1%

-7.7%

-12.0%

10.4%

1.4%

1.8x

0.4x

4.8%

56.0%

6.85

0.0%

15.1%

16

Oando PLC

1.4%

14.4%

14.4%

10.3%

1.5%

8.5x

0.5x

17

Dangote Sugar Refinery PLC

19.40

2.1%

1.1%

-3.0%

-4.7%

45.0%

20.0%

5.8x

2.2x

12.9%

11.8% 17.3%

18

Okomu Oil Palm PLC

90.40

10.2%

1.4%

33.6%

33.6%

39.7%

29.4%

9.0x

3.1x

3.3%

11.1%

19

International Brew eries PLC

41.30

-1.1%

0.6%

-24.2%

-24.9%

24.6%

7.4%

43.2x

9.8x

20

Flour Mills of Nigeria PLC

32.75

0.3%

0.7%

12.9%

12.9%

13.1%

3.0%

6.8x

0.8x

2.8%

14.6%

21

Transnational Corp of Nigeria

10.9%

2.3%

1.50

1.4%

0.6%

2.7%

1.4%

11.2%

2.5%

9.2x

0.9x

1.3%

0.0%

0.5%

-13.0%

-13.0%

1.5%

0.6%

23.9x

0.6x

4.4%

22

UAC of Nigeria PLC

14.70

23

Diamond Bank PLC

1.59

4.6%

0.5%

6.0%

1.3%

-5.8%

-0.7%

24

Total Nigeria PLC

193.30

0.0%

0.4%

-15.9%

-15.9%

25.0%

5.3%

9.3x

2.2x

8.4%

10.7%

25

FCMB Group Plc

2.30

-0.9%

0.7%

45.6%

5.8%

0.9%

4.4x

0.3x

4.3%

22.8%

183.00

0.0%

4.4%

15.2%

5.1%

0.2x

4.2% -46.0%

26

11 PLC

0.4%

-6.0%

-6.0%

38.8%

15.7%

6.6x

2.2x

27

Forte Oil PLC

36.95

-0.1%

0.4%

-15.0%

-12.0%

17.6%

1.6%

19.9x

3.1x

28

PZ Cussons Nigeria PLC

20.75

0.0%

0.4%

0.7%

-1.9%

10.7%

5.0%

19.7x

2.0x

2.5%

29

Cadbury Nigeria PLC

13.00

0.0%

0.3%

-17.0%

-16.7%

2.0%

0.8%

60.7x

2.1x

1.2%

1.6%

30

Presco PLC

72.00

-2.3%

0.4%

5.1%

5.1%

35.8%

24.8%

3.0x

0.9x

2.8%

33.5%

31

NASCON Allied Industries PLC

23.95

4.1%

0.4%

29.5%

24.6%

52.3%

19.7%

11.3x

5.0x

6.3%

8.8%

10.00

0.0%

0.8x

7.2%

5.0%

32

UPDC Real Estate Investment Tr

0.3%

0.0%

0.0%

33

Union Bank of Nigeria PLC

6.20

0.0%

0.3%

-20.5%

-17.4%

5.3%

1.1%

8.9x

0.6x

34

Julius Berger Nigeria PLC

27.50

0.0%

0.3%

-1.8%

-1.8%

17.3%

1.8%

7.6x

1.2x

3.6%

13.1%

35

Sterling Bank PLC

1.42

0.7%

0.3%

31.5%

25.7%

10.7%

1.0%

4.3x

0.4x

1.4%

23.5%

36

Dangote Flour Mills Plc

10.55

-0.5%

0.2%

-13.2%

-13.2%

1.3x

1.9%

37

GlaxoSmithKline Consumer Niger

19.20

0.0%

0.2%

-11.2%

-11.2%

4.4%

2.8%

30.3x

1.3x

39.1%

38

Chemical and Allied Products P

36.80

0.0%

0.2%

8.2%

3.1%

66.2%

30.2%

17.2x

11.5x

5.9%

5.8%

39

Beta Glass PLC

87.35

0.0%

0.2%

70.2%

70.2%

18.4%

11.9%

12.3x

2.1x

1.3%

8.1%

40

Transcorp Hotels Plc

7.45

0.0%

0.1%

3.3%

3.3%

5.3%

2.9%

19.5x

1.0x

1.8%

5.1%

T o p 10 G a ine r s

11.2%

3.3%

T o p 10 T r a d e s b y V o l u m e

T ic k er

P ric e

P ric e C hg %

T ic k er

Vo lum e

P ric e C hg %

OKOM UOIL

90.40

10.2%

UC A P

101.6

0.6%

IKEJ A H OT EL

2.85

9.2%

UB A

66.1

0.5%

J A P A ULOIL

0.38

5.6%

D IA M ON D B N K

20.2

4.6%

ET ER N A

6.30

5.0%

GUA R A N T Y

14.2

0.0%

C UST OD IA N

5.27

5.0%

T R A N SC OR P

13.8

1.4%

C ILEA SIN G

1.73

4.8%

Z EN IT H B A N K

8.5

-1.3%

M A N SA R D

2.64

4.8%

FB NH

8.5

-0.5%

N EM

2.66

4.7%

A IIC O

8.4

0.0%

LEA R N A F R C A

1.58

4.6%

F LOUR M ILL

7.6

0.3%

D IA M ON D B N K

1.59

4.6%

J A P A ULOIL

7.0

5.6%

T o p 10 T r a d e s b y V a l u e

T o p 10 L o s e r s P ric e

P ric e C hg %

T ic k er

Value

P ric e C hg %

UN ION D A C

0.40

-4.8%

NB

752.8

-4.3%

N EIM ET H

0.60

-4.8%

UB A

720.8

0.5% 0.0%

T ic k er

LA WUN ION NB A F R IP R UD T R A N SEXP R P R ESC O SEP LA T F ID ELIT YB K Z EN IT H B A N K

0.82

-4.7%

D A N GC EM

690.1

110.00

-4.3%

GUA R A N T Y

587.2

0.0%

4.07

-4.2%

UC A P

327.7

0.6% 0.3%

0.80

-2.4%

F LOUR M ILL

257.1

72.00

-2.3%

Z EN IT H B A N K

225.3

-1.3%

754.90

-1.8%

N EST LE

215.9

0.0%

2.27

-1.7%

IN T B R EW

104.2

-1.1%

26.40

-1.3%

FO

96.9

-0.1%

Investment Research

Brokerage Ayodeji Ebo | aebo@afrinvest.com

Robert Omotunde | romotunde@afrinvest.com

Bolaji Fajenyo | bfajenyo@afrinvest.com

Eronmosele Aziba | eaziba@afrinvest.com

43

˾ FRIDAY, JUNE 15, 2018

MARKET NEWS

SEC Advised Investors against Patronising Illegal Investment Schemes Goddy Egene The Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) has advised general public to beware of illegal operators and promoters of ponzi and other fraudulent schemes in the financial markets.

In a notification on its website, the capital market regulator urged investors to exercise utmost caution and conduct adequate due diligence before they patronise any financial product or scheme in the capital market.

According to the commission, investors should seek professional advice and check the commission’s website to confirm the registration status of company/individuals marketing any products to them before taking a decision to invest.

“Please be further advised that while the commission is under a duty to protect investors, a duty which it has continued to discharge, such duty does not include recovering funds for investors who against reason and

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

public notices such as this, invest in products promoted by unregistered/unregulated entities. At best, the commission will work with law enforcement agencies to bring promoters of such schemes to book and no more,” SEC said.

The regulator explained that Section 38(1) of the Investments and Securities Act, 2007 requires any person who intends to operate as a professional in the capital market or carry on securities business to be registered by the commission before engaging in

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 13Jun-2018, unless otherwise stated.

such activities, declaring “It is therefore illegal to carry on any kind of capital market business without registration or to patronize such person.”

“In view of the above, the general public is hereby warned that any person dealing with any such persons in any capital market/investment related business is doing so at his/her own risk,” SEC said.

Meanwhile, the commission has expressed its readiness to collaborate with various grassroots groups in its financial literacy campaign.

This, according to the commission, is in a bid to ensure that Nigerians in the rural areas are effectively sensitised on the benefits of investing in the capital market.

Acting Director General of SEC, Ms Mary Uduk, stated this during a meeting with executive members of National Youths Initiative for Peace and Governance (NYIPG) in Abuja recently.

Uduk, who was represented by Acting Executive Commissioner Corporate Services, Mr. Henry Rowlands

said: “ We are delighted at the various sensitisation you have carried out to enlighten the people in your region on the need to engage in meaningful vocations. When someone is fully engaged, he will work for the peace of the country as he would not want any activity that would destroy his business. The SEC as part of its market development mandate would like to partner with you to educate the people on the best ways to invest these money they are making from their businesses.”

Offer price: T he 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 186.97 188.54 5.44% Nigeria International Debt Fund 245.31 246.93 6.38% 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 1.94% ACAP Income Funds 0.64 0.64 6.48% 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 19.78 20.37 8.24% ARM Discovery Fund 416.23 428.78 6.98% ARM Ethical Fund 29.40 30.28 7.59% ARM Money Market Fund 1.00 1.00 13.25% 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 N/A N/A N/A AXA Mansard Money Market Fund N/A N/A N/A 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 13.13% Paramount Equity Fund 12.09 12.40 9.04% Women's Investment Fund 104.48 107.16 3.83% 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 12.79% 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 12.89% 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 1,164.44 1,165.13 7.72% FBN Heritage Fund 148.71 150.00 14.25% FBN Money Market Fund 100.00 100.00 12.86% FBN Nigeria Eurobond (USD) Fund - Institutional $112.60 $113.12 2.18% FBN Nigeria Eurobond (USD) Fund - Retail $112.46 $112.98 2.16% FBN Nigeria Smart Beta Equity Fund 177.33 180.05 10.28% 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 1.37 1.39 4.90% Legacy Debt Fund 3.06 3.06 5.95% 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 13.43% Nigeria Entertainment Fund 103.15 104.17 3.20% 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 12.90% Vantage Balanced Fund 2.21 2.24 4.97% Vantage Guaranteed Income Fund 1.00 1.00 15.56% Kedari Investment Fund (KIF) 120.59 120.97 4.85%

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 1.19 1.21 3.76% Lotus Halal Fixed Income Fund 1,073.81 1,073.81 6.48% 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 13.89 14.00 5.55% Meristem Money Market Fund 10.00 10.00 11.57% 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 1.35 1.37 13.10% PACAM Fixed Income Fund 11.75 11.82 6.50% PACAM Money Market Fund 10.00 10.00 12.47% 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 127.57 129.79 -0.95% 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 6.99% 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 2,392.46 2,412.18 6.66% Stanbic IBTC Bond Fund 186.25 186.25 5.55% Stanbic IBTC Ethical Fund 1.07 1.08 6.44% Stanbic IBTC Guaranteed Investment Fund 236.97 237.03 7.60% Stanbic IBTC Iman Fund 185.50 187.49 3.55% Stanbic IBTC Money Market Fund 100.00 100.00 12.44% Stanbic IBTC Nigerian Equity Fund 10,062.17 10,199.71 4.06% Stanbic IBTC Dollar Fund (USD) 1.10 1.10 3.35% 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 -1.80% United Capital Bond Fund 1.65 1.65 5.42% United Capital Equity Fund 0.95 0.97 3.99% United Capital Money Market Fund 1.00 1.00 12.51% United Capital Eurobond Fund 106.27 106.27 3.28% United Capital Wealth for Women Fund 1.14 1.15 5.16% 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 13.22 13.42 5.62% Zenith Ethical Fund 13.84 14.00 5.10% Zenith Income Fund 20.32 20.32 7.40% Zenith Money Market Fund 1.00 1.00 12.62%

REITS NAV Per Share

Yield / T-Rtn

11.41 136.00 103.70 51.30

1.01% 2.67%

Bid Price

Offer Price

Yield / T-Rtn

12.44 154.11 114.46

12.54 157.32 116.55

2.61% 7.87% 4.75%

Fund Name FSDH UPDC Real Estate Investment Fund SFS Skye Shelter Fund Nigeria Infrastructure Debt Fund Union Homes REIT

0.92%

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

4.90 9.13 18.24 20.05 146.84

4.94 9.21 18.34 20.25 148.84

3.43% -4.58% 4.07% 1.93% 7.20%

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.

44

T H I S D AY ˾ ͯͳË&#x153; ͰͮͯͶ

45

FRIDAY JUNE 15, 2018 ˾ T H I S D AY

INTERNATIONAL

email:foreigndesk@thisdaylive.com

Pompeo Warns Pyongyang Peace Efforts Still Face ‘Risks’ North Koreans seeTrump in new light

US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo warned Thursday that peace efforts with North Korea still faced “risks” and insisted that sanctions must be maintained on Pyongyang until it dismantles its nuclear arsenal, Agence France-Presse reported.

Pompeo made the remarks during a regional tour to brief South Korean, Japanese and Chinese officials about President Donald Trump’s historic summit with North Korean leader Kim Jong Un in Singapore.

The Trump administration has drawn criticism over the vague wording of a summit statement regarding denuclearisation and concerns among allies about the US president’s decision to stop war games.

Washington remained committed to the “complete, verifiable and irreversible” denuclearisation of North Korea, Pompeo said in Seoul after talks with the Japanese and South Korean foreign ministers.

“We believe that Kim Jong Un understands the urgency... that we must do this quickly,” he said of the effort to have North Korea abandon its atomic arsenal.

In Beijing, Pompeo said China “reaffirmed its commitment” to United Nations sanctions after the foreign ministry suggested earlier this week that the UN Security Council could consider easing the economic punishment against its Cold War-era ally.

“We truly believe that we have a path forward after so many years that can bring peace,” Pompeo told Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi before talks with President Xi Jinping.

Meanwhile, North Koreans are getting a new look at US President

Donald Trump, according to The Associated Press. They see him shaking hands with Kim Jong Un at their historic summit in Singapore, and even awkwardly saluting a three-star general. It’s a far cry from the “dotard” label their government slapped on him last year.

Previously, even on a good day, the best he might get was “Trump.” No honorifics. No signs of respect. Now, he’s being called “the president of the United States of America.” Or “President Donald J. Trump.”

Even “supreme leader.”

The post-summit transformation of North Korea’s official version of Trump, who’s now being shown by state media looking serious and almost regal, underscores the carefully choreographed

reality show the government has had to perform to keep its people, taught from childhood to hate and distrust the “American imperialists,” ideologically on board with the tectonic shifts underway in their country’s relationship with Washington.

With a time lag that suggests a great deal of care and thought went into the final product, the North’s state-run television aired its first videos and photos of the summit on Thursday, two days after the event and a full day after Kim returned home to Pyongyang, the capital.

To be sure, the star of the show was Kim. Trump’s first appearance and the now famous handshake didn’t come until almost 20 minutes into the 42-minute programme.

To the dramatic, almost song-like

intonations of the nation’s most famous newscaster, the programme depicted Kim as statesmanlike beyond his years, confident and polite, quick to smile and firmly in control. He was shown allowing the older American — Trump, in his seventies, is more than twice Kim’s age — to lean in toward him to shake hands, or give a thumbs up, then walking a few steps ahead to a working lunch.

The programme also showed an awkward moment of Trump reaching out to shake the hand of a North Korean general, Minister of the People’s Armed Forces No Kwang Chol, who instead saluted the American president. Trump saluted the officer in return, and the two then shook hands. In another scene, he moved a chair with his foot instead of his hands. Both

Italy and France Try to Patch Up Migrant Row, Draw Papal Rebuke Italy and France tried to patch up a row over immigration on Thursday as Pope Francis urged politicians everywhere to work together on helping refugees and respect their dignity, according to Reuters.

Italy summoned France’s envoy on Wednesday and demanded an apology from President Emmanuel Macron, who had said Rome’s move to block a migrant rescue ship from its ports was an act of “cynicism and irresponsibility”.

Macron, in a phone call late on Wednesday with Italian Prime Minister Giuseppe Conte, said he did not mean to offend “Italy and the Italian people”, according to a statement.

The two leaders confirmed a lunch meeting on Friday to discuss “new initiatives” on immigration, a day after Italian Interior Minister Matteo Salvini announced an “axis” with Germany and Austria to fight illegal migration.

“France does not want escalation; it’s counter productive. We need to maintain dialogue,” a source close to Macron said as the president visited the western town of Rochefort.

However, the source added that Macron was not “taking back anything”.

Italy’s Conte later said on Facebook he would take to Paris “Italy’s request for broad collaboration and solidarity on immigration at a European level”.

Conte will meet German Chancellor Angela Merkel in Berlin on Monday.

Salvini has vowed to continue to block foreign humanitarian boats from Italian ports as Europe wrestles with how to share the responsibility of handling migrants trying to enter the EU from war zones and poor countries, largely across Africa and the Middle East.

More than 1.8 million migrants have arrived in Europe since 2014, and Italy is now sheltering more than 170,000 asylum seekers, as well as an estimated 500,000 unregistered migrants. A European Union summit will discuss the bloc’s asylum rules at the end of the month.

elicited giggles from North Koreans watching the programme.

Before showing Trump and Kim signing their joint statement, the newscaster said Trump made a point of giving Kim a look at his armored Cadillac limousine, and noted that it is known to Americans as “the Beast.” She also at one point called them the “two supreme

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46

˾ FRIDAY, JUNE 15, 2018

WORLD OF ISLAM

Edited by: MJO Mustapha Email deji.mustapha@thisdaylive.com

Shawwal: What to Do on Eid Day and During The Month Mufti Taqi Usmani/MuslimMatters/Al Balagh

Beginning of the Ashur-ul-Hajj

S

hawwal is the first of the three months named as “Ashhur al-Hajj” (i.e. the months of Hajj). Although the major acts of Hajj are normally performed in the first ten days of Zulhijjah, yet the whole period starting from the first of Shawwal up to the 10th of Zulhijjah is held to be the period of Hajj because some acts of Hajj can be performed any time during this period. For example, the Tawaf-ul-qudum, followed by the Sai’ of Hajj cannot be performed before Shawwal, while it can be performed any day after the beginning of Shawwal. Similarly, an ‘Umrah performed before Shawwal cannot be treated as the ‘Umrah of Tamattu: while the ‘Umrah performed in Shawwal can be affiliated to the Hajj, making it a Hajj of Tamattu: Moreover, ihram of Hajj should not be started before Shawwal, because it makruh. For these reasons these three months have been named as the ‘months of Hajj’ and the month of Shawwal has the distinction of being the first of these.

Eid-ul-fitr The second meritorious aspect of Shawwal is that it has been chosen by Allah Almighty for the celebration of “Eid-ul-fitr “, one of the only two annual festivals recognized by the Shari’ah.

This happy day is designed by the Shari’ah as a sign of gratefulness by the Muslims on the accomplishment of Ramadan, and as an immediate reward by Allah for those who spent the month of Ramadan in fasting and performing other forms of ‘ibadah.

Instead of commemorating an event from the past, the Shari’ah has prescribed the first of Shawwal as an annual festival for the Muslims at an occasion when they themselves accomplish a great ‘ibadah. This approach reminds the Muslims that they should not rely only on the accomplishments of their ancestors, rather, they should themselves perform meritorious acts to please their Creator.

In prescribing the ways to celebrate the happy day, Islam has adopted another unique approach.

The festivals of other religions or nations normally comprise of some acts of rejoicing and enjoyment.

The whole happy day is normally spent in dancing, singing and playing.

In contrast, Islam has prescribed a simple yet graceful way to observe the happy day. First of all, it is mandatory on all the well-off Muslims to start their day by paying “Sadaqat-ul-fitr” to the poor of their society, so that they, too, may enjoy the day along with others, and may not be worried for earning their livelihood at least on that day of happiness.

After paying the “Sadaqat-ul-fitr”, the Muslims are required to proceed to an open place where they can offer the Eid prayer collectively. In this way, they are supposed to present themselves before their Creator and offer two rak’ats of this special type of Salah, which makes them receive blessings from Allah and start their celebration by these divine blessings.

After the Salah also, they are supposed to rejoice the day in a responsible manner, without violating the limits prescribed for them and never indulging in the acts prohibited by Allah.

Keeping this point in view, we will now discuss specific rules prescribed for observing the day of Eid-ul-fitr.

Before Going to Eid Prayer The following acts are prescribed as Sunnah at the beginning of the day of Eid-ul-Fitr before proceeding to the Eid prayer: 1. To wake up early in the morning.

2. To clean one’s teeth with a Miswaak or a brush.

3. To take a bath.

4. To put on one’s best available clothes.

5. To wear perfume.

6. To eat a sweet food, preferably dates, before the Eid prayer.

7. To recite the following Takbir in the low voice while going to the Eid prayer: Allahu Akbar Allahu Akbar La Ilaha Ila Allah Wa Allahu Akbar Allahu Akbar Wa Lillahi Alhamd

Sadaqat-ul-fitr Sadaqat-ul-fitr is an obligation for every Muslim, male or female, who owns 613.35 grams of silver or its equivalent, either in the form of money, ornaments, stock-in-trade, or in the form of some goods or commodities beyond one’s normal needs. Every person who owns such an amount has to pay Sadaqat-ul-fitr, not only on behalf of himself but also on behalf of his minor children. The prescribed amount of Sadaqat-ul-fitr is 1.75 Kilograms of wheat or its value in money. This amount is prescribed for paying Sadaqat-ul-fitr for one person only.

If a person has some minor children, the same amount has to be paid on behalf of each one of them separately. The following points must be remembered concerning the payment of Sadaqat-ul-fitr.

1. Sadaqat-ul-fitr is obligated on each adult male or female separately, and the relevant adult person himself is responsible to pay it. The husband is not required to pay Sadaqat-ul-fitr on behalf of his wife nor is the wife supposed to pay it on behalf of her husband. Similarly, a father is not bound to pay Sadaqat-ul-fitr on behalf of his adult children or vice-versa. However, if the head of the family, by his own free will, wishes to paySadaqat-ul-fitr for each one of the members of his family, he should seek their authorization for that purpose. In this case the Sadaqat-ul-fitr paid by him will be valid on their behalf. If he did not pay theSadaqat-ul-fitr on behalf of any of the members of his family, he will not be responsible for it. Rather, it is the duty of every adult member of the family to discharge his own obligation or to request the head of the family to pay it on his or her behalf.

2. It is a Sunnah that the Sadaqat-ul-fitr is paid before performing the Eid prayer. It can also be paid before the Eid day, but it is not advisable to delay it up to the performance of’ Eid prayer. However, if a person has failed to pay on its proper time, he should pay it as soon as possible, whereby the obligation will stand discharged.

3. The Sadaqat-ul-fitr is not necessary on

behalf of a child who was born after the break of dawn in the Eid day, nor is it necessary to pay Sadaqat-ul-fitr on behalf of a person who dies before the dawn of the Eid day.

4. Sadaqat-ul-fitr should be paid only to a person who is entitled to receive Zakah.

The Eid Prayer The second obligation on Eid day is to perform the Eid prayer. Some rules in this respect are mentioned hereunder: 1. The Eid prayer is Wajib (obligatory) on every male Muslim.

2. The Eid prayer can be performed any time between the Ishraq and Zawal.

3. It is preferable that the Eid prayer is performed at an open field and not in a mosque. However, if, it is difficult for any reason to perform it in an open field, it can also be performed in a big mosque.

4. It is not advisable to hold the Eid prayer in every mosque, rather it is preferable that the people from several small mosques get together to either perform it in an open field or, in its absence, in a big mosque which can accommodate a large number of people.

5. No Nafl Salah can be performed before the Eid prayer, neither in one’s home, nor at the place of’ Eid prayer. Similarly, Nafl prayer cannot be performed after the Eid prayer at the same place. However, it can be performed after one comes back to his home.

6. The Eid prayer has neither Adhan nor Iqamah.

Khutbah: The Address of Eid-ul-fitr In this Salah, Khutbah is a Sunnah and is delivered after the Salah, unlike the Salah of Jumu’ah where it is Fard and is delivered before the Salah. However, listening to the Khutbah of Eid Salah is wajib or necessary and must be heard in perfect peace and silence.

It is a sunnah that the Imam begins the first Khutba by reciting takbirs ‘Allahu Akbar’ nine times and the second Khutbah with reciting it seven times.

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FRIDAY, ͚ͽË&#x153; ͺ͸͚Î&#x20AC; Ëž T H I S D AY

STILL ON MKO ABIOLA'S INVESTITURE

President Buhari decorating Ambassador Babagana Kingibe with the national award of Grand Commander of the Order of the Niger (GCON)

President Muhammmadu Buhari presenting the national award of Grand Commander of the Federal Republic (GCFR) to Mr. Kola Abiola on behalf of his late father, Chief M.K.O Abiola

President Buhari presenting the national award of Grand Commander of the Order of the Niger (GCON), to Mrs. Ganiyat Fawehinmi on behalf of her late husband, Chief Abdul Gani Fawehinmi

Vice President Yemi Osinbajo; Professor Wole Soyinka; Ogun State Governor, Ibikunle Amosun; President Muhammadu Buhari and the eldest son of the late Chief M.K.O Abiola, Kola Abiola

Former Director-General of Hope '93, Senator Jonathan Zwingina, and former Governor of Ogun State, Chief Olusegun Osoba

Mr. Femi Falana (SAN) and Professor Wole Soyinka

Professor. Wole Soyinka, Bola Tinubu and Kayode Fayemi

Ayo Obe, Frank Kokori, Femi Falana and Abdul Oroh

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FRIDAY JUNE 15, 2018 ˾ T H I S D AY

NEWS

Group News Editor Ejiofor Alike Email Ejiofor.Alike@thisdaylive.com, 08066066268

NEITI: Nigeria, Not IOCs, Guilty of Delayed Review of 1993 Oil PSCs’ Terms Chineme Okafor in Abuja The Nigeria Extractive Industries Transparency Initiatives (NEITI) yesterday said it was Nigeria and not the International Oil Companies (IOCs) operating in the country that should be held responsible for the delay or lack of review of the terms

contained in the 1993 crude oil Production Sharing Contracts (PSCs) signed by both parties.

The federal government had reportedly failed to review the terms in the PSCs it signed with IOCs in 1993, to enable investments in deep offshore oil projects.

Based on this, the 1993 terms

US Promises to Monitor Ekiti Guber Poll Traditional rulers denounce buying of votes Victor Ogunje in Ado Ekiti The United States of America (USA), has said the world is interested and would monitor the July 14 governorship election in Ekiti State to ensure that rules are not circumvented in the poll.

This is coming as the Chairman of the Council of Traditional Rulers in the state and Oloye of Oye-Ekiti, Oba Oluwole Ademolaju, has urged the US to prevent vote-buying during the governorship poll in the state.

The US Consul General in Nigeria, Mr. John Bray, dropped the hint at a meeting with the Ekiti State Council of Traditional Rulers held at the palace of Ewi of Ado-Ekiti, Oba Rufus Adejugbe.

He said there would be no compromise on the need to conduct a free, fair and credible election in a peaceful atmosphere in line with global best practices.

Bray promised that the US iscommitted to peace before, during and after the election.

“We are on the side of the people. We are here to support free, fair, credible and peaceful election. The eyes of the world will be on Ekiti State on July 14. We would be here

and we won’t let you down,” he said.

Meanwhile, Oba Ademolaju has asked the US to prevent vote-buying during the July 14 governorship poll in the state.

Oba Ademolaju urged US to bring observers from all over the world to ensure that each vote countes in the election.

The monarch stated that the people are resolute to resist manipulation in whatever form, saying the governorship poll would be a pointer to what is to come in the 2019 general election.

“We want you to use your good office to bring monitors all over polling units. Security agencies must be above board during and after the elections.

We want everybody to be carried along. We want reputable groups as monitors present at polling units not people that will just be moving about,” he said.

Another prominent traditional ruler, Oba Adejugbe, said the people would be happy if the most popular candidate won the election.

“We want peace and vote to count. If the most popular candidate won at the end of the day, nobody would raise a voice.

We are concerned about safety in our domain, we don’t want Ekiti to be a battle ground. We want the choice of the people to emerge as governor in the election,” he added.

Bayelsa Professor Collapses, Dies in Office Emmanuel Addeh in Yenagoa Authorities of the University of Africa (UAT) were battling yesterday to unravel the mystery surrounding the death of Prof. Ayibaye Efere, who collapsed on his desk at the institution located in Toru-Orua, Sagbama Local Government Area of Bayelsa State.

Efere, a United Kingdom trained academic, was reportedly found dead in his office, when some of his colleagues whom he was scheduled to have a meeting with earlier in the day, decided to check on him to ascertain why he was absent.

The professor who is the Dean of the School of Foundation Studies of the university, had already passed on when his colleagues got to his office, according to sources in the school.

Spokesman for the Bayelsa State Police Command, Mr Asinim Butswat, did not respond to enquiries as his phone rang out, but a source said the late academic was found resting his head on his

table in a sleeping position, while efforts to save him by medics who were called in proved futile.

He had earlier been appointed Acting Rector of Bayelsa State Institute of Tourism Catering and Hotel Management by the state Governor, Seriake Dickson, following the formal passage and signing into law of the bill establishing the school in 2013.

In 2017, Efere, also a holder of two doctorate degrees in Health Services Management and Education from two Central American Universities, was made Dean of the newly established University of Africa, Toru-Orua.

A native of Nangi-Ama, Ekowe community, Southern Ijaw Local Government Area, Bayelsa State, the late academic was also a member of the State Diaspora Mobilization and Contact Committee and Chairman of the British Education Network.

It was gathered that before joining the university, Efere had lived in the United Kingdom for over 24 years and was mostly involved in teaching.

have remained untouched for close to 25 years, despite that the conditions provided for their review had been met.

NEITI explained at a meeting in Abuja where it unveiled an online information sharing platform - the NEITI Data Dashboard, that while the country signed the PSCs terms with the IOCs and was expected to follow up with periodic reviews as stipulated, it failed to do this, thus, resulting in huge oil revenue losses.

The agency noted that it could not blame the IOCs for the country’s ineptitude in this regards, adding that the monies that should have accrued to her from periodic reviews of the PSCs were gone and would not be regained.

In his remarks at the unveiling of the platform, which would

provide Nigerians with simplified information about the country’s extractive sectors, NEITI’s Executive Secretary, Mr. Waziri Adio, stated that Nigeria had two options that should trigger a review of the PSCs terms.

Adio explained that the country was supposed to review the terms either when oil prices rose to $20 per barrel or after 20 years of operation of the PSCs. Both conditions, he stated, were ignored by the country and the IOCs continued to operate with what they initially signed.

“We signed these agreements to attract the IOCs because at that time, the technology to explore oil was expensive and these incentives were offered. They were offended with the belief that at some points, they must have recouped their investments and those incentives would not

be necessary again. So what we have done is to say, we failed to act, this is not money they owe us because we are the country, we are the ones that owns the law and the law says you should review and you failed to review you are the one that dropped the ball because we didn’t act,” Adio said.

According to him, the NEITI has embarked on a study of what the country lost within the period it failed to review the PSCs terms.

This, he noted, would help put a financial cost on her inactions and perhaps push her to take seriously issues such as this.

“What we are doing is not to say the companies owe us.

We are doing a study to show that if some of the parameters had changed, and if we had reviewed what we were

supposed to review, this is what the country had lost. Not to say that we should recoup the money because that money is gone. It is not money that anybody is owe us, but to put a cost to inaction so that we use that to make sure that something like that doesn’t happen again and also ensure that we do what we are supposed to do,” he added.

Recently, the Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation (NNPC) disclosed that President Muhammadu Buhari had given it the approval to undertake a review of all PSCs terms to reflect the current realities in the industry.

NNPC’s Group Managing Director, Dr. Maikanti Baru, told the Senate Committee on Petroleum (Upstream) that he had set up a committee to undertake this, adding that they would soon begin the review process.

AFFORDABLE HOUSING

R-L: Edo State Governor, Mr. Godwin Obaseki; Vice President, Prof. Yemi Osinbajo; Enogie of Ukhiri, His Royal Highness, Ambassador Osayande Aigbe; Executive Chairman, Edo Development and Property Agency (EDPA), Ms. Isoken Omo, during the ground-breaking ceremony of the 1,800 housing-unit Emotan Gardens project in Ikpoba-Okha Local Government Area, Edo State... recently

Mimiko: Lack of Pro- masses Ideology Made Me Return to LP James Sowole in Akure The immediate past Governor of Ondo State, Dr. Olusegun Mimiko, yesterday returned formally to the Labour Party (LP) with a declaration that lack of party with pro-masses oriented political ideology in the country informed his decision.

Mimiko made the declaration while addressing the mammoth crowd at the Civic Centre in his home town, Ondo, after he picked the LP membership card at Ward 7, Ondo West Local Government Area.

The former governor was elected on the platform of the LP in 2007 but was not sworn in until February 2009 due to the protracted court processes that terminated at the Court of Appeal, Benin City.

He was reelected in 2012 thus becoming the first person to serve out the constitutionally allowed two terms of eight years in the Sunshine State.

However, Mimiko during preparation for the 2014 general election moved to the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) and

became the South West Coordinator of the President Goodluck Jonathan Campaign Organisation.

The declaration that lasted for several hours was attended by members of the National Working Committee (NWC) of the party, including Alhaji Abdulkadir Abdusalam and the National Treasurer, Mrs. Oluchi Okpara “I have taken this decision of returning to LP out of the conviction of the need to catalyze a greater focus on the ideological content of the Nigerian political firmament”, he said.

He said the fact that he had won his second term as the governor of the state showed that the party was in control.

“The implication of this is that there was practically no personal gain in focus for us in moving over to PDP as at that date.

“The decision was also not borne out of any disagreement with LP, either ideologically or operational,” he said.

Mimiko added that he left the LP in the higher interest of the country

particularly the issue of restructuring, which frontier the then president had extended a bit by convoking the National Conference.

“We thus felt compelled to work with his party, hoping that his victory in the 2015 election would translate the vision of restructuring the Nigerian federation into reality,” he added.

According to him, ideologically focused political engagements are needed now more than ever before. “Virtually all the existing political parties in Nigeria today belong to the right of the centre, ensconced as it were in a neo-liberal mental construct, the name or mantra they choose to enrobe themselves in notwithstanding.

“This is evident not in terms of the pretentious claims they make to ideological purity, but in the way and manner they have used power; including the extent to which they have mainstreamed the interest and welfare of the weak and poor in our society,” he said.

“This ideological fluidity within

which the nation’s extant democracy has evolved since 1999, deserves now to be fully interrogated, with a view to engendering a transition to a more ideologically defined system of engagement,” he said.

Receiving the former governor, the LP National Chairman said Mimiko’s people-oriented programmes in health, education, housing, rural development, urban renewal, youth and women empowerment attest to the value inherent in his return to the party.

“In him, we have an example of what power could be used to achieve on the side of the people.

“Therefore, our hope and confidence is rekindled by his return to the party today to be part of the renaissance of the party and Nigeria.

“The Labour Party is elated that a social democrat like Mimiko, who through his sterling performances as governor, mainstreamed propeople and pro-poor people policies, programmes and projects, is returning to add value to the party.

I assure you of our support and commitment at all times”, he said.

FRIDAY JUNE 15, 2018 ˾ T H I S D AY

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Osinbajo Flags off 1,727 Housing Units in Edo Adibe Emenyonu in Benin City Vice President Yemi Osinbajo yesterday flagged off the 1,727 housing units “christened “Emotan Garden Estate located at Egba, Ikpoba Okha Local Government Area of Edo State.

The vice president, while performing the flagging off ceremony, commended the state Governor, Mr. Godwin Obaseki, for his various initiatives, since he assumed office as the governor of the state.

According the vice president, “I want to appreciate what the astute and dynamic governor, Obaseki, is doing. I was in

Auchi to launch the fertilizer plant a couple of months ago and recently in this same local Government I was here to launch the Industrial Park.

He said with the pace of work done at the site, there is possibility that the housing units will be completed in no distant time.

“It is my special pleasure to be here again to perform the ground breaking of this Emotan Garden “I want to thank the governor and government of the state MIXAfrica (private developer) and the Edo Property Development Agency (EPDA) for their very execellent job and I hope that within the

next few months given the fact that they were able to build these houses within 12 days and I am sure that if we work hard the 1,727 housing units can be completed in no distant time,” he said Earlier, the state governor, Mr. Godwin Obaseki said it was in fulfillment of his electioneering promises of creating jobs and providing affordable housing for the people of the state.

“I want to thank all of you for taken time out to witness

this ground breaking ceremony of Emotan Garden which we hope will be our flagship into creating modern house style in our state.

“You will recall during my electioneering campaign I did promise that we are going to make Edo State an economic hub. I said we are going to create a minimum of 200,000 jobs in my first time in office and we expected that these jobs will be created from areas like agriculture, construction and the manufacturing sectors.

“But we realised also that housing is very key to creating jobs and that was one of the reasons why one of the first thing to do was to restructure Edo State Housing and Property Development Company.

“We reenacted the law setting it up, we got a new management and this is the evidence of the reforms we have made in that agency,” he said.

The governor said 80 per cent of materials used for the

building of the houses were gotten locally from the state.

He noted that the government is starting a new paradigm in the area of providing an affordable housing for the citizens of the state.

“We believed that we are starting a new paradigm in the position of affordable housing and we expect that this houses will sell from about N3million to no more than N12million and it will truly be affordable”, he said.

Wike Accuses APC of Arming Thugs to Disrupt Rivers LG Polls Allegations baseless, says party Ernest Chinwo in Port Harcourt Rivers State Governor, Nyesom Wike has stated that the state government received intelligence report that a faction of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in the state is arming political thugs to disrupt next Saturday’s local government elections in the state.

But the state chapter of the APC has described the allegation as baseless as the party had earlier said it was not participating in the exercise.

In a state broadcast yesterday, Wike said the APC faction planned to disrupt the elections in Abua/Odual, Akuku Toru, Asari Toru, Degema, Emohua, Ikwerre, Ogba/Egbema/ Ndoni, Opobo and Tai Local Government Areas of the state.

“The arrowheads of this satanic plot, the state Chairman of the APC, Mr. Ojukaye Flag-Amachree; the former Commissioner of Agriculture, Mr. Emmanuel Chinda, and the current Nigeria’s Ambassador to Netherlands, Ambassador Oji Ngofa, are recruiting and arming political thugs with guns to be deployed on the eve of the election to create an atmosphere of insecurity in these and other local government areas and scare voters to shun the polling stations,” he said.

He said the state government has received concrete assurances from the heads of all the security agencies that they have put adequate measures to secure the peace and ensure orderly conduct of the election.

He noted that the Rivers State Government shall hold the security agencies professionally accountable should insecurity be experienced in the state in the course of the elections . He said: “Community leaders and members of the public should be on the watch out and report suspicious characters and movements in their localities and neighbourhoods to the law enforcement agencies for immediate action.

“Also, the security agencies have definite instructions to strictly enforce the restrictions on human and vehicular movement on election day and arrest any person or group of persons that violate this order. All those who

have no official business with conducting the election should therefore stay away from the polling units after casting their votes or risk arrest and prosecution,” he added.

The governor stated that there is no legal impediment stopping the conduct of the June 16 local government elections.

“I can confirm to you that the election will take place as scheduled in all the 4,442 units, 319 wards and 23 local government areas of the State as there is no legal obstacle significant enough to warrant otherwise.

“I am very pleased with the information that 67 out of the 68 registered political parties have fielded candidates for the elections and are therefore participating,” he said.

He expressed happiness with the assurances from the state Independent Electoral Commission (RSIEC) that it is ready to conduct free, fair and credible elections come Saturday June 16.

But in its treaction, the state chapter of the APC said it has no reason to disrupt the election as it had since distanced itself from the exercise.

In a statement issued by the state Publicity Secretary of the party, Chris Finebone, the APC said: “It is absolutely important to quickly mention that the APC, its leaders and members across Rivers State have no stake in the sham local council elections and have no reason at all to consider or disrupt a process we have clearly distanced ourselves from and made such position known to the world.”

The APC however called on its members not to interfere with the elections as the party has nothing to gain from the exercise.

“The APC knows that there will be no value addition to it as a party to indulge in disrupting or undermining a process we have already washed our hands off because we know that it is an exercise in futility ultimately – a total waste of valuable time.

“We very well know that the law will deal with the sham elections in fullness of time. Our members should shun anything that will directly or remotely associate them with the sham exercise on Saturday,” Finebone said.

LEGAL MATTERS

L-R: Rev. Fr. Ethelbert Ukpabi; former Governor of Delta State, Chief James Ibori; former NBA President and Principal Partner, Alegehlaw Foundation, Mr. Austin Alegeh, SAN; his wife, Ferishat; Mr. Sylva Umoge, and former NBA President, Mr. Okey Wali, SAN, during the official opening ceremony of the new Lagos law office and flag-off of the Alegehlaw Foundation in Lagos... yesterday Kolawole Alli

Boko Haram Leader, Shekau’s Mother Reveals Her Relationship with Her Son The mother of Boko Haram leader, Abubakar Shekau, Mrs. Falmata Abubakar, has revealed that she has not set her eyes on him since he came into contact with Mohammed Yusuf.

“I did not set my eyes on him since he came into contact with Mohammed Yusuf.

“I know he is my son, and everyone knows a mother’s love for her son, but our attitude to life is different,” she told the Hausa Service of the Voice of

America (VOA) in the village of Shekau, Yobe State, in what appears to be her first media interview.

In a report published yesterday, VOA said elders and leader of the village took its team to the woman.

The report also said Shekau’s late father was the Imam of the village Mosque before his death.

Mrs. Abubakar said she had no idea where her son was.

She said: “I don’t know whether

he is dead or alive, only God knows. I have not seen him in the last 15 years.”

Residents of the village said they always hid the identity of their village for fear of being associated with the Boko Haram leader.

His mother said Shekau left the village for Maiduguri, the Borno State capital as a young boy in search of Islamic knowledge.

She said he was an “almajiri boy” who walks around the streets of Maiduguri looking for food. She

said it was in the course of seeking Islamic knowledge that her son came into contact with the founder of Boko Haram, Yusuf. She said the late Boko Haram leader was the one who indoctrinated her son.

She also said: “He has put so many people in serious difficulty; I pray that God guides him right.”

She added that she will not curse her son, saying “he has chosen a path different from the one we put him; only God knows what he has become.”

Ekiti APC Kicks as Gunmen Kill Member Victor Ogunje in Ado Ekiti The Ekiti State chapter of the All Progressives Congress (APC) has protested the killing of a member of the party in the state, Mr. Willy Ayegoro, who was shot by unknown gunmen.

An eyewitness said Ayegoro, a member of APC in Ado Ekiti Local Government Area, was killed at Atikankan, a notorious area of the capital city on Wednesday night.

Ayegoro was said to have been shot in the head along the IronaAtikankan road by two gunmen, who fled the scene immediately.

The killing was said to have rattled passers-by and those around the vicinity of the incident, who fled in different directions for safety.

“The people around that place ran after the men but they were

faster and escaped through bike that conveyed them,” an eyewitness said.

The Police Public Relations Officer of the Ekiti State Command, Mr. Caleb Ikechukwu, said the command had not been briefed.

Ikechukwu said proper actions would be taken if the incident were confirmed to be true.

Meanwhile, the state chapter of the party has protested the killing of its members by gunmen in recent time.

A statement by the State Publicity Secretary, Taiwo Olatunbosun, said it was sad that Ekiti State was sliding into murderous years of Governor Ayodele Fayose’s administration when political killings were the order of the day.

The party said the killing came

hours after an early morning gun attack on the hotel owned by former APC governorship aspirant, Dr. Wole Oluyede, by suspected thugs, who were allegedly heard by a night guard raining curses on Oluyede and threatening to destroy his hotel .

“Early yesterday morning, Oluyede’s hotel was invaded by gunmen, who were issuing threats to the physician. The assailants didn’t leave the hotel premises until they destroyed the billboard Oluyede donated to APC governorship candidate, Dr Kayode Fayemi. This was followed by the attack on Willy, who was confirmed dead at the Ekiti State University Teaching Hospital, Ado-Ekiti.

“We call on the security agencies to investigate these incidents to get

to the root of the matter and bring the perpetrators to justice. But we warn that our party will not be intimidated by all these violent attacks to cow our members. We say no to needless blood-letting.

Ekiti people in the last three years have been able to know who loves them between our candidate, Dr Kayemi, and Governor Ayodele Fayose,” he said.

“Ekiti people have made up their minds to vote against an oppressive system run by Fayose and there is no amount of intimidation that will distract APC from ensuring that Ekiti people have a peaceful election that will return our candidate as governor so that our people can return to the peace and security they enjoyed during Fayemi’s first term between 2010 and 2014,” he added.

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Witness Says Demoted EFCC Director not Author of Libellous Publication Alex Enumah in Abuja A witness in the court action challenging the demotion of a director with the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), Ayo olowonihi, Mr.

Benjamin Mark has told the National Industrial Court in Abuja, that the demoted director was not the author of an online publication alleged to have been targeted at bringing the EFCC and its chairman to ridicule.

Police Arrest Two Suspected killers of Abuja `Missing Woman’ The Police Command in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) has arrested two suspected killers of Charity Aiyedogbon, who got missing since May 2016.

The suspects are Chukwujekwu Ezeugo, 27, principal suspect, from Enugu State and Emmanuel Adogah, 28, from Edo State.

The Commissioner of Police in the FCT, Mr. Sadiq Bello, made the disclosure, while briefing journalists on the arrest by operatives of the command yesterday in Abuja.

Bello said the principal suspect, Ezeugo was arrested in Benin, while the second principal suspect, Adogah was arrested in Abuja on June 11 by operatives of the command.

The commissioner said Ezeugo, who had been at large since the disappearance of Charity, confessed to have conspired with Adogah to murder her on May 9, 2016 at Kagini, Abuja.

He said Ezeugo also confessed to have given her excess alcohol before moving her from his house

at Yaounde Street to Kagini, where she was butchered and packaged in two sacks and dumped by the bank in Ushafa, Bwari, Abuja.

He further confessed that he killed her in order to take possession of her Acura ZDS Jeep and other property.

Bello said the deceased car and some of her property had been recovered from him.

He said the second principal suspect, Adogah who was a habitual criminal equally confessed to have participated in the commission of the heinous crime.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that Charity’s former husband, Mr David Aiyedogbon had been accused of having a hand in the disappearance of the deceased.

Speaking with journalists, Aiyedogbon said that the arrest and subsequent confession by the suspects had vindicated him, adding that the deceased would surely get justice.

The witness, who testified in a suit filed by Olowonihi to challenge his suspension and subsequent demotion by the anti-graft agency, informed the court that the publisher (blogger) of the online medium, one Abu Sadiq, in the course of investigation confirmed to him that the alleged offending publication was given to him by one Mustapha Sulaiman.

Mark, under cross examination by a Senior Advocate of Nigeria (SAN) and counsel to the claimant, Professor Joash Amupitan, told the trial Judge, Justice Sanusi Kado, that the alleged malicious publication that led to the punishment of Olowonihi was made by Abubakar Saqid.

The witness, who claimed he was a member of the team that investigated Olowonihi and Mustapha Sulieman, over the alleged malicious publication, told Justice Kado that the blogger did not mention the name of Olowonihi, as the author or producer of the alleged malicious publication.

The cross-examination: Lawyer: In your statement, you said the publication was made by one Abubakar Sadiq Witness: Yes Lawyer: Did the blogger tell

you the name of the author of the publication?

Witness: He said it was one Mustapha Suleiman Lawyer: Did he tell you it was the claimant that sent the publication to him?

Witness: he mentioned Mustapha, but…

When asked if the blogger during the course of investigation said he knew the claimant, Mark stated that the blogger mentioned only Mustapha but that Mustapha is related to the claimant.

Earlier, the witness, led in evidence by counsel to the EFCC, Ibrahim Audu, adopted his statement on oath as his evidence.

He told the court that their investigation centred on a defamatory online publication against the EFCC and some management staff.

He also admitted before the court that it obtained a recorded statement from one Abubakar Sadiq in the course of investigating the alleged malicious publication.

Before commencement of the trial, the defence counsel had presented a motion-on-notice seeking an order of court to grant the EFCC leave to amend its statement of defence.

The motion, which was dated

June 7 and filed on June 8 was, however, not opposed by the claimant and was consequently admitted by the court and deemed as properly filed and served.

At the end of cross examination, Justice Kado, adjourned till September 26 for continuation of defence.

Olowonihi, had dragged the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission before the National Industrial Court, Abuja over his alleged demotion from grade level 17 to grade level 16/7.

In the legal action instituted against the commission, the claimant asked the court to restore him to his position as a substantive Director of grade level 17 and as commandant of the EFCC Academy. The complainant in the suit marked, NICN/ABJ/347/2017 wants the court to declare his demotion as well as the processes that led to it, illegal, unlawful, null and void.

Olowonihi in his statement on oath, claimed that trouble started when the current Acting Chairman, Ibrahim Magu, assume leadership of the commission.

He said Magu had on November 19, 2015 summoned him into his office accusing him of being behind some online publications on the

activities of the commission and against the person of the Executive Chairman (Ibrahim Magu ).

He said on Magu’s directive, he was interrogated, his official table top computer taken away, while he two phones ( MTN and GLO) were seized, adding that his office after thoroughly searched by a team of detectives and police men was sealed up.

The complainant said further that while interrogation was still on, Magu demoted him as Commandant and redeployed him from the EFCC Academy to the Acting Executive Chairman’s office.

He said while the letter was purported to have been issued by the Management of the commission, he was not aware of any management meeting where such decision was taken being a management staff.

He disclosed that he received a query on December 22, 2015, accusing of breaching certain section of the commission’s Staff Regulation Handbook and replied on the 29th December, 2015 denying all the allegations, but was surprised to receive that same day, a letter of indefinite suspension from work without pay with immediate effect.

Nigerian Media Code of Election Coverage Receives High Endorsement Sunday Okobi The growing number of media outfits endorsing the Nigerian Media Code of Election Coverage (Revised edition 2018) is an indication that the Nigerian media is committed to the professional and ethical coverage of the 2019 elections, a statement by the Director of International Press Centre (IPC), Lanre Arogundade, has noted.

The statement stressed yesterday that the swelling number of the media outfits for the cause has underlined a common chord in the industry for self-regulation and checking of excesses.

The Code will be launched in Abuja on June 22, 2018, as part of the activities of the World Congress of the International Press Institute (IPI).

The statement by Arogundade disclosed that about 80 media outfits have so far endorsed the Code, including professional groups and associations-the broadcast media, newspapers, online news mediums and support groups.

The Code, a revised edition of the 2014/2015 Nigerian Media Code of Election Coverage, accordingly, was recently validated by media stakeholders.

Arogundade said the Code has been endorsed by the Newspapers Proprietors Association of Nigeria (NPAN), Broadcasting Organisation of Nigeria (BON), Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), Nigerian Guild of Editors (NGE), Radio Television and Theatre Arts Workers Union (RATTAWU) and Guild of Corporate Online

Publishers (GOCOP).

He added that it was encouraging that prominent media establishments in Nigeria have so far endorsed the Code, including Channels Television, AIT, Raypower Radio, News Agency of Nigeria (NAN).

Others are Vanguard, THISDAY, Daily Trust, The Guardian, The Sun, Leadership, The Nation, Premium Times, The Cable, Eagle News, Business Eye Magazine and The News Magazine.

Arogundade also said it was gratifying that 55 members of the Guild of Corporate Online Publishers (GOCOP) who publish online have endorsed the Code as well as the Nigerian Institute of Journalism (NIJ) and the Association of Communication Scholars and Professionals of Nigeria (ACSPN).

The Director of International Press Centre expressed hope that the number of organisations endorsing the Code would increase before the public launch and presentation next week.

According him, “We are particularly elated at the kind of responses we are getting from many media organisations that have either endorsed or expressed interest in endorsing the Code.”

“Essentially, the Code provides guidelines for the ethical conduct of journalists and their respective organisations in the coverage of elections.

This obligation entails the performance of oversight, public education, open forum and conflict management roles by the media during elections.”

TECHNOLOGICAL FEAT

Chief of Accounts and Budget, Nigerian Air Force, Air Vice Marshall Clement Agada Ogbeche (left), presenting a prototype trainer aircraft known as “Super Mushshak,” to the Minister of Finance, Mrs. Kemi Adeosun in Abuja ...yesterday

2019: Ezeife Leads Party Members on Deadly Oath Ahead of the 2019 general elections, executive members of the Justice Must Prevail Party (JMPP) yesterday swore to an oath to remain upright in all their dealings or die. This is in order to deliver the country from its current situation, it said.

The party which is said to have been formed based on the vision from God, pledged to wrest power both at the national and state levels through the activities of upright members.

To hold its members accountable, the party led by its Chairman of the Board of Trustees (BoT) and former Governor of Anambra State, Chief Chukwuemeka Ezeife, and the party chairman, led other party leaders to take a “righteous deadly” oath The oath which employ three ordinances of the Earth, the Sun

and the Blood, stipulates that any member who takes it and goes against its tenets will die.

The oath, according to the party, requires party members to remain upright, as any act of corruption after taking the oath will spell death for such party member.

Party members who want to take the oath are required to stand bare foot on the sand, holding on to the holy book or looking at the sun and then take the oath which will be sealed by a cleric.

Some other members of the party who took the oath were the National Chairman of the party Olusegun Iyagbemi, and former presidential aspirant, Sarah Jubrin.

While delivering speech at the maiden press conference of the party, the Chairman, Iyagbemi said many

other parties have signed social contracts with Nigeria but failed.

“JMPP is not a Party of promises.

JMPP’s social contract with Nigeria and Nigerians is based on covenant.

“Political promises produce politicians who have no respect for true God but engage in all manner of evils.

“Political covenants produce leaders, who by ‘Righteous Deadly Oaths’, connect themselves to the true God, and therefore hold themselves out as eternal collaterals for the betterment of Nigeria and Nigerians.

“This is so because promises can fail but covenant cannot be broken.

Without controversy, covenant is superior to promise!

“By the Covenant of 12 Pillars of Oath of Justice that holds the peace and destiny of Nigeria,

we involve the true God in our government and give room for priests and imams to be part of the divine direction in government.”

The pillars of the oath include: “I shall not steal any party or government funds or resources from one naira upwards.

“I shall not collect any gift that will influence my decisions while serving in office as JMPP official.

I shall not give or receive bribe or engage in any sexual harassment, homosexuality or lesbianism. I shall not award any contracts to myself or personal company directly or indirectly. I shall not attack any church or mosque, Christian or Muslim, either directly or indirectly by inciting words or instruments.

I shall not engage in any diabolic acts.”

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FRIDAY JUNE 15, 2018 ˾ T H I S D AY

EID-EL-FITR MESSAGES....

EID-EL-FITR MESSAGES....

CAN, Governors Rejoice with Muslims, Preach Peaceful Co-existence Our Correspondents The Christians Association of Nigeria (CAN) yesterday rejoiced with Nigerian Muslims over the successful completion of the Ramadan period, urging all Muslims in the country to embrace peace as part of the Sallah celebration. CAN President, Samson Ayokunle, in his Sallah message, said the successful completion of the Ramadan period involves purification through fasting and seeking blessings and forgiveness from the Almighty God, the creator of mankind.

According to him, “The Nigerian Christian body expresses its determination and commitment to collaborate with the leadership of the Supreme Council for Islamic Affairs (SCIA) to promote peaceful co-existence among adherents of the country’s two major religions and work towards ensuring unity, peace and progress of the country.

“Ramadan, being the ninth month of the Islamic calendar, is very important, considering the fact that it beckons on Muslim faithful to eschew self-seeking personal goals and work assiduously towards developing spiritual growth through demonstration of kindness, forgiveness and generosity for all, irrespective of religious differences.”

Al-Makura Calls for Application of RamadanVirtues As the people of Nasarawa State join millions of Nigerians to mark the 2018 Eid-el-Fitr celebration, the state Governor, Umaru Tanko Al-Makura, has called on all Muslims to be steadfast in applying the virtues of Ramadan. He said they can do this through consistent supplication, perseverance, humility, hospitality, good neighbourliness and indeed the spirit of sharing in their daily activities.

The governor stated this yesterday in his Eid-el-Fitr message to the people of the state, adding that it behooves on all good citizens of the state to continue to pray for the peace, security and economic prosperity of the state.

Al-Makura therefore reiterated his previous calls on the people of the state to be law-abiding and live peacefully with one another.

Lalong Preaches Brotherly Love, Sacrifice The Plateau State Governor, Hon. Simon Bako Lalong, has felicitated with the entire Muslims in the state and in Nigeria, on the occasion of Eid-el-Fitr celebration. Lalong urged the Muslim faithful to reflect on the lessons learnt during the Ramadan period and on the significance of fasting as a religious obligation, charging them to allow its true meaning reflect deep in their lives as well as the positive impact it will make on the lives of others.

In a statement signed by his Director of Press, Emmanuel Nanle, the governor stressed that without the virtues of brotherly love, accommodation and sacrificial giving, religion would make no meaning and peace would be elusive in the society.

While calling on all citizens in the state to live in harmony with one another and practice their religion in love and by the truth it professes, he tasked them to continue to pray fervently for sustained economic recovery and for the peace and unity of Nigeria.

Pray for Unity, Peace, Wike Urges Muslims Rivers State Governor, Nyesom Wike, has urged the Muslim community to pray for the unity and peace of the nation as they celebrate Id-el-Fitr.

In his Sallah message, Wike congratulated all Muslims for successfully completing this year’s Ramadan fast and called on them to use the Id-el-Fitr celebrations to re-dedicate themselves to the ideals of peace, security and friendship.

He assured them that the state government and security agencies had put in place security measures to ensure a peaceful celebration of Sallah. Wike , therefore, urged Nigerians to promote religious tolerance, adding that such virtue would ensure peace across the country and enhance national development.

He assured the Muslim community and all residents of the state government’s determination to improve the lives of her citizens.

Ugwuanyi Emphasises Love, Peace, Unity As Muslims celebrate Eid-el Fitr all over the world, Governor Ifeanyi Ugwuanyi of Enugu State has enjoined Nigerians, especially Muslim faithful, to take advantage of the spiritual rebirth offered by Ramadan to promote love, peace, unity and progress.

Ugwuanyi, in his Sallah message, felicitated with President Muhammadu Buhari and other Muslim faithful for the successful completion of Ramadan, and emphasised the compelling need for all Nigerians to continue to live in peace and harmony as well as offer special prayers for the country.

The governor stressed that it is only when Nigerians live to cherish one another that “we can make rapid progress and strengthen the bond that brought us together as a prosperous country, in keeping with the dreams and aspirations of our founding fathers.”

He therefore, wished Nigerians a pleasant and peaceful celebration.

RAMADAN LECTURE

L-R: Baba Adini of Yorubaland, Edo and Delta States, and former Minister of Mines and Steel Development, Chief Sarafa Tunji Isola; Guest Lecturer/Secretary General, Nigerian Supreme Council for Islamic Affairs, Prof. Ishaq Oloyode; and General Manager/Group Head, Business Development, BUA Group, Mr. Tajudeen Ahmed; and veteran actor/movie producer, Alhaji Adebayo Salami, during The Point Newspaper’s First Annual Ramadan Lecture, in Lagos...recently

Ayade Calls for Contentment, Selflessness

pulling back the country’s wheel of progress.

Cross River State Governor, Professor Ben Ayade, has called on Muslim faithful in the state and Nigeria to remain contented and render selfless service to their fellow countrymen and the country at large as a panacea to heal a world in dire need of peace.

Ayade made the call in his Eid el-Fitr message to the Muslim Ummah where he averred that the celebration which marks the end of the holy month of Ramadan offered an opportunity for all to break barriers and reach out to fellow human beings after meeting with the creator.

A statement signed by his spokesperson, Mr. Christian Ita, quoted the governor as saying: “Indeed, prayer prohibits immorality and wrongdoing, and the remembrance of God is greater for He knows all we do. Governor Ayade prayed Allah’s eternal blessings on his faithful and their loved ones.

Ogun State Governor, Ibikunle Amosun, has urged Muslim faithful to imbibe the values of Ramadan and continue to manifest them in their daily lives. Amosun, in his Sallah message signed by the state Commissioner for Information and Strategy, Adedayo Adeneye, to commemorate the Eid-el-Fitr, said Ramadan, which is a time of fasting and charity, also demands righteousness in all endeavours.

“During Ramadan, which is one of the important pillars of Islam, we were obliged to fast, shun evil actions, speak right and show love to one another. “It also compelled us to engage in deep spiritual reflection, and I believe that if we all continue in this practice after Ramadan, it will not only be to our benefit as individuals, but also as a country,” he said.

Ambode Advocates Tolerance, Unity Lagos State Governor, Akinwunmi Ambode, yesterday urged Nigerians to imbibe the tenets of tolerance and unity for one another irrespective of their ethnic and religious differences as a pathway to building a strong and united country.

The governor, in his Eid-el-Fitri message, signed by his Chief Press Secretary, Mr. Habib Aruna, said it is only by embracing peace, unity and fairness that Nigerians can begin a rebirth, urging them to imbibe the tenets of love, tolerance, forgiveness and brotherhood which the period of the holy month exemplifies. According to him, with brotherly love and harmonious co-existence among her citizens above all other things, Nigeria can overcome the numerous challenges confronting her.

Hence, Ambode wished all Muslim brothers and sisters in the state a happy Eid-el-Fitri celebration.

Obaseki Felicitates with Muslims

The Governor of Edo State, Godwin Obaseki, has congratulated Muslims in the state as they celebrate Eid-el-Fitr after the successful completion of the Ramadan fast.

In his Sallah message issued yesterday, Obaseki said: “On behalf of the government and the people of Edo State, I felicitate with our Muslim faithful on the occasion of Eid-el-Fitr after completing the Ramadan fast, a major pillar of Islam.” He noted that “the holy month of Ramandan is an opportunity for our Muslim brothers and sisters to deepen their relationship with Allah, promote a life of sacrifice, charity and love for one another.”

He urged Muslims in the state “to sustain these values even after the holy month,” and called on them to support his “administration’s vision to build a prosperous and peaceful states where everyone can actualise their dreams.”

Ajimobi Seeks Spiritual Rebirth

Oyo State Governor, Abiola Ajimobi, has congratulated the Muslim community in the country on the successful completion of the monthlong Ramadan fasting.

The governor, in a statement by his Special Adviser on Communication and Strategy, Mr. Bolaji Tunji, prayed that Allah should accept their supplications, even beyond the holy month. While calling for spiritual rebirth among the Islamic faithful, he enjoined them to imbibe the teachings of the Holy Prophet Mohammed on the essence of Ramadan fasting. Senator Ajimobi also admonished the faithful to use the Eidel-Fitri celebrations to pray for the unity and peaceful co-existence of the country’s ethnic groups, and shun divisive tendencies capable of

Amosun Preaches Righteousness

CP Assures Lagosians of Security

The Lagos State Commissioner of Police, Imohimi Edgal, has assured Lagosians of the police capacity and ability to protect the state on land, sea and air in this holiday period and during political activities.

The CP said this yesterday during a friendly show of force in Ikeja and Oshodi areas of Lagos. According to him, “This friendly show of force is to reassure Lagosians that we have both the capacity and ability to ensure that law and orders are maintained.”

Edgal said they have their surveillance helicopter manned by RRS pilot moving across the state with operations on the waterways by the marine police and officers of Area ‘L’. He added: “And of course on land, we sectorised the state. Area commanders are leading friendly show of force across the state with me heading this particular one to ensure law and order in the state.”

Yobe Restricts Movement

The Yobe State Government has announced the restriction of human and vehicular movement as residents in the state celebrate Eid-el-Fitr.

A statement signed by the Director-General of Press Affairs to the governor, Abdullahi Bego, said the restriction must be observed throughout the state and would start from 10 p.m. yesterday to 10 a.m. today. “This is to inform the public that the Governor, Ibrahim Gaidam, has approved the placement of restriction of vehicular movement throughout the state from 10 p.m yesterday to 10 a.m today as we mark the Eid el-Fitr.

“The restriction also applies to using vehicles to Eid prayer grounds except those who have express security clearance or those on emergency services. The measure is taken to ensure peaceful, secure and hitch-free Eid el-Fitr festival. Members of the public are kindly advised to comply,”

Barde Felicitates with Gombe Muslims Governorship aspirant of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Gombe State, Muhammad Jibril Barde, has congratulated Muslims and the good people of Gombe State for witnessing the end of the holy month of Ramadan. In a statement issued by his media office yesterday in Gombe, Barde charged that the lessons of Ramadan-piety, self-denial, prayers and generosity to the poor and needy-should be with them always.

He underscored the importance of living in peace and unity, adding that “we should all resolve to live in peace and unity and be dedicated to the worship of Allah and the doing of good.

He prayed Almighty Allah to restore to everyone those values that places high premium on human life, love for country, love for neighbours and sharing even as “we ventilate our faith in the unity of our dear country and especially our beautiful state of Gombe.”

52

FRIDAY JUNE 15, 2018 ˾ T H I S D AY

NEWSEXTRA

Anti-corruption: PDP Urges Buhari to Prove His Sincerity With Oshiomhole’s Case Seeks probe of N500m bribery allegation over MTN fine Dariye, Nyame’s convictions handwork of Yar’Adua, Jonathan, says Omokri Onyebuchi Ezigbo in Abuja The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has challenged President Muhammadu Buhari to prove the sincerity of his fight against corruption by directing the investigation and arraignment of former Edo State Governor, Adams Oshiomhole, over allegations of corruption.

This is coming as the former Special Adviser to Jonathan on New Media, Mr. Reno Omokri stated that the former Governor of Plateau State, Mr. Joshua Dariye and former Governor Jolly Nyame of Taraba State, who were recently imprisoned for fraud, were charged and prosecuted by the PDP administrations of Umaru Musa Yar’adua and Goodluck Jonathan’ and not by the All Progressive Congress-led government of

Muhammadu Buhari.

PDP has also asked President Buhari to probe the allegations of corruption and sharp practices that pervaded the recovery of the N1.03trillion fine imposed on MTN Nigeria.

The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) was dragged to court by an Edo State based anti-corruption crusader, Bishop Osadolor Ochei, seeking the court to compel EFCC to act on petitions against the former governor and commence his investigation and prosecution.

In a statement issued by PDP’s National Publicity Secretary, Kola Ologbondiyan, the party said it believed that Oshiomhole was being officially shielded from investigation by the presidency.

“We challenge the presidency to come out clear on its involvement

in the efforts to protect former Governor Oshiomhole as well as other APC members from prosecution over corruption allegations,” PDP said.

The party urged Nigerians to join the call for the investigation and prosecution of the erstwhile governor over the weighty allegations against him.

PDP condemned the official shielding of Oshiomhole, whom President Buhari had anointed as his preferred National Chairman of what it called the dysfunctional All Progressives Congress (APC), in spite of the public knowledge of the corruption allegations against him.

“Oshiomhole must be made to provide answers to allegations that he built a sprawling mansion worth more than N10 billion in his hometown as well as allegedly constructing another expensive building said to worth over N500 million along Okoro-otun Avenue

in Benin City. He should answer to allegations by Bishop Ochei that he approved a highly inflated contract and payment without due process of N1.88 billion for the construction of hostel rooms at the Edo State University, Iyamho; that he allegedly approved an inflated N1.22 billion contract for the building of the Teaching Hospital in the same institution as well as an alleged diversion of N1.2 billion approved for the construction of a new accident and emergency ward complex and renovation of existing structures in the Central Hospital, Benin City.”

“The PDP insists that Oshiomhole must be made to provide answers on the handling of the N25 billion he allegedly borrowed from the Capital Market through issuance of bonds; the alleged inflation of contract sums for

various road projects in the state as well as allegations that he acquired properties in United States, South Africa and Dubai worth billions of dollars,” PDP added.

In another development, PDP alleged that President Buhari and his administration have a lot of questions to answer on how the MTN fine was reduced to N330 billion, particularly on the face of allegations that certain interests in the Presidential Villa, said to be very close to President Buhari, allegedly took a bribe of N500 million before the reduction.

In a separate statement, Ologbondiyan said it was disgusting that while this allegation of bribery at the Villa has remained uncleared by the presidency, President Buhari, the same African Union (AU) Anti-Corruption Champion, last Wednesday, approved the frittering of another N500 million from the

same fund, under controversial claims of professional fees to unnamed persons for unspecified services.

In a separate statement issued yesterday, Omokri faulted the claim by the EFCC that the recent convictions of former PDP members has vindicated the EFCC from the accusation that the anti-graft agency, under Buhari, is lukewarm in prosecuting chieftains of the ruling APC, for corruption.

Omokri argued that the EFCC’s claim only serves to show the dishonesty and lack of integrity of the current leadership of the agency.

“The fact is that Dariye and Nyame, the two former PDP members recently imprisoned for fraud, were charged and prosecuted by the PDP administrations of Umaru Musa Yar’adua and Goodluck Jonathan and not by the APC-led government of Buhari,” he said.

Keyamo: I Will Use Maina Scandal to Campaign for Buhari Kehinde Lawal The Head of Communications for President Muhammadu Buhari’s re-election campaign organisation, Mr. Festus Keyamo, has said he will use Abdulrasheed Maina scandal to campaign for the president.

The former Chairman of the Presidential Task Team on Pension Reforms, Maina, is a suspect over allegations of misappropriating N100 billion while in office.

He was dismissed in 2013 by the Federal Civil Service Commission, following a recommendation by the Office of the Head of Service of the Federation.

When the administration of President Buhari came to power, Maina, a fugitive, resurfaced in 2017 and was not only secretly reinstated but also promoted.

But when this came to the knowledge of the public, Nigerians roundly criticised President Buhari’s administration.

But Keyamo said the scandal should not be used to criticise the president, adding that Maina saga is a credit to President Buhari.

He also said he would use it to campaign in support of the president because the president reacted promptly to the issue when it was brought to his knowledge.

“Where are all those people now?

Are they in office? Deziani, of all story of sleaze, did she not remain in office till the end? People should

not make silly comments in the public. The head of service, the Attorney General of the Federation, including the Minister of Internal Affairs, they all appeared before the National Assembly. They told us in graphic terms; how these memos were raised. And these memos moved from one office to the other. All of these memos from HoS to SGF, minister to AGF, all of these, was there one to the chief of staff to the president? We should not be pessimistic or cynical for nothing. All of these memos that moved up and down, was there one to the president before the HoS was queried? When there were reports that Maina had been recalled, it took the president less than 24 hours to order his sack.

So, what is the criticisms; that the moment it became clear, it took less than 24 hours to sack him?

So, I will not want to dance to the tune of the opposition that will keep repeating a song hundred times and make people believe the song.

“Maina cannot, by any stretch of imagination, be a point of criticism to the president. For me, I will use the Maina saga to the president.

The Maina saga, I will use it to campaign. You will use it to criticise but I will use it to campaign. That is because the man reacted to issue of corruption and back-door handling of an issue when it came to his knowledge,” Keyamo said.

Atiku to Speak on Restructuring at Hall of Grace Awards Former Vice President and PDP presidential hopeful, Atiku Abubakar, will address the issue of restructuring on June 24, using the Hall of Grace (HoG) awards platform.

Indications to this effect emerged from a former Minister of Information, Chief Alex Akinyele.

Akinyele, also the Grand Custodian of the Hall of Grace Awards, who said: “I have personally signed off and approved the fact that Atiku should speak to Nigerians through

the platform of the HoG Awards holding on the June 24, 2018 in Lagos.

“There is the need for every well-meaning Nigerian to support restructuring of our country. We believe that the structure isn’t working the way we all expect it to. There is the urgent need to do this debate and make all Nigerians understand how restructuring will work, particularly our brothers and sisters from the North,” he said.

AWARDS

L-R: Media Relations Manager, Nigerian Breweries Plc; Chukwuemeka Aniukwu, Corporate Affairs Adviser, Nigerian Breweries Plc, Kufre Ekanem, and Corporate Communications and Brands PR Manager, Mr. Patrick Olowokere, at the flag-off of the 2018 edition of the Nigerian Breweries Golden Pen Awards in Lagos ...recently

Court Adjourns GTBank, Innoson Appeal Suit for Ruling Christopher Isiguzo in Enugu The Enugu Division of the Court of Appeal yesterday reserved for ruling on an application brought before it by Guaranty Trust Bank (GTB) seeking to amend its motion of appeal against a judgement given by a Federal High Court in Awka against the bank.

At the resumed hearing of the matter yesterday, counsel to GTB, Chief Wole Olanipekun (SAN), informed the court that the appellant (GTB) had its notice of appeal against the judgment of the Federal High Court, Awka.

Olanipekun informed the court that he would like to withdraw the application dated June 22, 2016, and sought the court to grant him leave to do so.

This application for withdrawal of the motion seeking an extension of time to respond to the counter affidavit filed by Innoson against the motion to amend the notice of

appeal was opposed by counsel to Innoson Motors and Chief Innocent Chukwuma, Prof. McCarthy Mbadugha.

Arguing that the court does not have the jurisdiction to grant hearing to the appellants, Mbadugha maintained that the court should hold the balance between the contending rights of all parties. In maintaining this balance, he alleged that the court should note that they (Innoson Motors) have a motion before the court challenging that the applicants cannot be allowed to move any applications before the court since they are yet to comply with a previous court order.

He further argued that by order 80 of the Supreme Court Rules, since the appellants appeal has been entered at the Supreme Court, the Court of Appeal lacks the right to adjudicate on it.

Responding to Innoson’s argument, counsel to GTB noted that Mbadugha’s positions were

unconstitutional. He maintained that once an application for withdrawal has been made, the applicant can withdraw his application and such an application cannot be opposed.

Maintaining that it is within the court’s jurisdiction to grant the leave being sought, Olanipekun argued that the right of appeal is a constitutional right that should not suffer any distraction or nuances of the respondent.

Upholding Olanipekun’s argument, the court led by Justice Ogunwumiju ruled that by the provision of the 1999 constitution, an appellant has the right to withdraw its application.

“The application hereby stands withdrawn and struck out,” she ruled.

With the application withdrawn, Olanipekun moved a motion, praying the court for leave to amend its notice of appeal dated January 28, 2015, challenging the order of the Federal High Court in Awka.

This motion was again

challenged by counsel to Innoson Motors who argued that where an appeal has been entered at the Supreme Court as in the case at hand, the lower court (Court of Appeal) loses the right to entertain the matter in any sort. The only jurisdiction the lower court has, he argued, is to transmit all pending applications to the appellate court.

Urging the court to disregard Innoson’s argument, GTB counsel argued that what is before the Supreme Court is an appeal on an interlocutory application, which is totally different from the substantive suit being argued by the parties.

“A respondent to an appeal does not have the locus standi to ask for a stay of proceedings. The only party that can ask for stay of execution is an appellant who has an appeal,” he argued.

The matter was the adjourned for ruling on a date to be communicated to the parties in the suit.

53

Ë&#x153; ͚ͽË&#x153; ͺ͸͚Î&#x20AC; Ëž T H I S D AY

FRIDAYSPORTS

Group Sports Editor Duro Ikhazuagbe Email duro.ikhazuagbe@thisdaylive.com 0811 181 3083 SMS ONLY

WORLD CUP 2018â&#x20AC;Ś

JUNE 14 TO JULY 15

24 Hours to the Opener Rohr: Eagles physically and mentally ready for Croatia

While most Nigerian ball-fans are still pondering on the out come to tomorrowâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s World Cup group D opener for Super Eagles, Technical Adviser Gernot Rohr, yesterday declared that his team is â&#x20AC;&#x153;physically and mentally readyâ&#x20AC;? for their first match of against Croatia.

Rohr, a former German international defender who coached the national senior teams of Burkina Faso, Niger Republic and Gabon, and top Tunisia Club Etoile du Sahel before taking charge of the Super Eagles two years ago, insisted that his wards are in no mood to play second fiddle at the Kaliningrand Stadium. â&#x20AC;&#x153;We are looking forward to the match with a lot of

optimism. It will be a tough one, but we are physically and mentally ready. We had quality preparatory matches and trained twice at our final camp in Austria, and since arriving in Essentuki, we have done some useful tactical preparation. â&#x20AC;&#x153;It is important to start well in a good tournament like this, and that is what we hope to do on Saturday,â&#x20AC;? Rohr told the world media yesterday.

The Super Eagles flew into the Kaliningrad Khrabrovo Airport late yesterday from Essentuki, about 48 hours to the clash with Croatia at the 35,000 â&#x20AC;&#x201C;capacity Kaliningrad Stadium.

Captain Mikel John Obi, one of only four members

of the current Eaglesâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; squad that featured at the last finals in Brazil four years ago, said: â&#x20AC;&#x153;It is the dream of every footballer to play at the FIFA World Cup and we have to live that dream on Saturday.

Croatia is a very good team with a lot of top class players and we have to be at our very best against them. â&#x20AC;&#x153;This group is probably the toughest in the tournament; everyone is calling it the â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;group of deathâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;. That is the motivation. We have given ourselves the target of coming out of this group just like we did in the African qualifying group that everyone gave the same tag. â&#x20AC;&#x153;As our coach has said, we worked hard at both

Ambode, Fashola, Dalung, Others to Cheer Eagles The Executive Governor of Lagos State, Mr.Akinwunmi Ambode, as well as the Minister of Works, Power and Steel, Mr. Babatunde Raji Fashola and the Youth and Sports Minister, Solomon Dalung are in the Federal Government delegation that will arrive in Russia today to lead the support for the Super Eagles in tomorrowâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s clash with Croatia.

Officials confirmed to Thisdaysports that the dignitaries would depart Nigeria this morning.

Also in the delegation are President of the Nigeria

Olympic Committee and Nigeriaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s IOC Member, Enginner Habu Ahmed Gumel, as well as a number of other highly â&#x20AC;&#x201C;placed officials and directors in the Sports Ministry.

They will be received on arrival by Nigeriaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Ambassador to the Russian Federation, His Excellency Professor Steve Davies Ugbah; President of the Nigeria Football Federation, Mr. Amaju Melvin Pinnick; NFF Vice Presidents Seyi Akinwunmi and Shehu Dikko; NFF General Secretary, Dr. Mohammed Sanusi; other Members of the NFF Executive

Committee and Management and; the Consul-General in the Nigerian Embassy, Nura Bello Dankadai.

The Eagles will not lack support in the other side of the stands at the Kaliningrad Stadium, with members of the respected Nigeria Football Supporters Club also on ground.

President of the Nigerian community in the Russian Federation, Suberu Ozigis said yesterday that about 1,500 Nigerians living in Moscow, and some 500 who are residents of Saint Petersburg, will be in Kaliningrad for the match.

Ekong Kicks off World Cup Fundraising Campaign On the eve of the biggest celebration in world football, Nigeria star William TroostEkong has kicked-off a World Cup fund-raising campaign by the football movement Common Goal.

William is one of 50 football players so far to have pledged 1% of their salaries to highimpactfootball charities around the world as part of Common Goal. The Super Eagles defender is thefirst member of the Common Goal team to announce the campaign, with other players set to follow throughout the tournament.

He would like to raise the sum of â&#x201A;Ź5,000, but the collective aimis to raise the lofty figure

of â&#x201A;Ź250,000 before the World Cup ends on July 15th.

Wiliamâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s announcement also marks the first time that football fans from around the world have thechance to participate in the Common Goal movement via the new website - www. common-goal.org/worldcup â&#x20AC;&#x153;In a few short days, I will step onto the pitch in green and white to play in my first World Cup tournament for the Nigerian National Team,â&#x20AC;? said William. â&#x20AC;&#x153;It is an incredible honour and responsibility.

During this World Cup tournament, myself and other members of the Common Goal team will be hosting fundraisers to support football for good

organisations and we have a goal of raising â&#x201A;Ź250,000 as a team during the World Cup. Together I think we can do it!â&#x20AC;?

Fans in some countries, not including Nigeria, can donate directly through the playerâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Facebook page - https://www. facebook.com/WTroostEkong - while Nigeria-based fans can connect directlythrough Common Goalâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s website - www.common-goal.org/ worldcup Common Goal started with a single player, Juan Mata, in August 2017 and has currently raisedover â&#x201A;Ź700,000 for football charities all over the world.

Whichever team you support, we all share a #CommonGoal.

Super Eagles players in ďŹ nal preparation for tomorrowâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s match against Croatia

the camp in Austria and since we got to the team base camp in Essentuki. Our Football Federation also did well to get us to prepare in very good places devoid of distraction and now, it is our responsibility to do the nation proud by starting well against Croatia,â&#x20AC;? he remarked.

Kaliningrad, the farthest part of Russia to the west, bordered by Poland and Lithuania, and used to be known as Konigsberg, assumed its new name and

became part of the Soviet Union the year after the end of the Second World War. The Kaliningrad Stadium was specifically built for the 2018 FIFA World Cup finals.

Tomorrow will mark Nigeriaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s sixth appearance at the FIFA World Cup finals, in seven tournaments since making her debut at the 1994 finals in the USA. In previous outings, the Eagles had made it to the Round of 16 on three occasions â&#x20AC;&#x201C; the only African team to have gone that far

that many times. This was in 1994, 1998 and 2014. The team failed to emerge from the group stage in 2002 and 2010.

The only time Nigeria has missed footballâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s biggest showpiece in the last quarter â&#x20AC;&#x201C;century was in 2006, when a head-to-head rule knocked out the Eagles despite finishing on equal points and superior goals to Angola â&#x20AC;&#x201C; which was enough to guarantee qualification in normal situations.

Energy Giant, Aiteo, Sponsors Hit Theme Song for Nigeriaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s World Cup Campaign Aiteo Group, the Official Optimum Partner of the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF), last Saturday premiered to industry applause, an official theme song to mentally boost the Super Eagles of Nigeria to go for glory at the Russia 2018 World Cup. This is also as they pledged to donate $50,000 to the team â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;for every unreturned goalâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; scored at the Mundial.

The rousing theme song titled, â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;Dem Go Hear Am, meaning â&#x20AC;&#x153;Go Show Themâ&#x20AC;? was put together by Nigeriaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Hip-Hop/Afrobeat luminaries; Olamide and Phyno. The Single, has been well received

by Nigeriaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s teeming football and music fans, and is currently enjoying massive airplay with over 1,000,000 downloads recorded across assorted media

channels. The hit track had also garnered 7.5 million social media impressions barely 24 hours after release.

According to Benedict Peters, the Executive Vice Chairman of Aiteo Global Group, the Groupâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s sponsorship of the theme song is yet another demonstration of its commitment to promoting football in Nigeria as a means of uniting the people. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Football is a phenomenon in Nigeria. You can see and feel its power on every street.

It galvanises unity amongst our people, irrespective of ethnic or class differences. As the World Cup kicks off, we solidly throw our weight behind our national team and its ever-effervescent supporters spread across the globe. We look forward to

great football moments that will become historic as the Super Eagles play to covet the World Cup trophy,â&#x20AC;? he said.

Also speaking at the launch of the theme song, President of Nigeriaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Football Federation, Amaju Pinnick, extolled Aiteo for its unflinching support for football development in Nigeria. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Aiteo has been magnanimous, not just to the Super Eagles but in their contributions towards the revitalisation of football in Nigeria and Africa.

Our partnership has returned impressive results; we are able to pay our coaches on time and keep our players well motivated. We are glad that Aiteo continues to exceed our expectations always.

They are indeed deserving of commendations.â&#x20AC;?

Star Lager Releases Limited Edition Bottles for Eagles Star Lager beer the official beer of the Nigerian Super Eagles has taken its support for the national football team a notch higher as they officially launch the limited edition bottles wrapped with a new refined look that mirrors the much celebrated Super Eagles Jersey.

The football inspired bottles carry the bold Star crest with a backdrop of green and white on the front, representing the colours of Nigeria and the national team. While three different jersey numbers -- â&#x20AC;&#x153;1â&#x20AC;? representing the Star brand,

â&#x20AC;&#x153;11â&#x20AC;? representing the Super Eagles, and â&#x20AC;&#x153;12â&#x20AC;? representing the Nigerian fans, who are regarded as the â&#x20AC;&#x153;12th playerâ&#x20AC;? on the pitch, can be found at the back of the label.

Commenting on the new label design, Senior Brand Manager, Star Lager Beer, Nigerian Breweries Plc, Abayomi Abidakun had this to say, â&#x20AC;?With the nation about to begin their outing at the global tournament in Russia it is only befitting that we show love for our team. Star is proudly supporting the national team

and millions of Nigerian football fans, and we wish the team a successful outing.â&#x20AC;?

Star and Nigerian football have a shared history, as both the beer and Nigerian national football team were born in 1949.

As official sponsors of the Super Eagles, Star Lager is providing support to the national team and football fans as well as offering premium satisfaction to over 180 million passionate fans that will be cheering the Super Eagles in the â&#x20AC;&#x153;Nigeria, United We Shineâ&#x20AC;? campaign as they head to Russia.

54

T H I S D AY ˾ FRIDAY, JUNE 15, 2018

FRIDAYSPORTS

W O R L D C U P 2 0 1 8 … JUNE 14 TO JULY 15

WORLD CUP 2018…

Russia Soars High Despite Short, Unexciting Opening Ceremony Vanessa Obioha

Ronaldo’s Portugal Smell Blood with Spain in ‘Disarray’ After yesterday’s goal fest in a one-sided game between Russia and Saudi Arabia, Spain vs Portugal today is a matchup sure to keep excitement levels high. It is the last of three matches, a fitting finale to a day which promises drama.

Russia and Saudi Arabia’s tie are certainly business related; both are leaders in the global oil and gas market. For SpainPortugal, the relationship is more intimate; they are neighbours on the Iberian Peninsula, almost detached from the rest of Europe.

Football wise, they share similar history; they were tagged underachievers and also-rans until recent years when Spain won three international titles on the trot (Euros in 2008 & 2012, World Cup 2010), while Portugal are current European champions, their first ever win.

Expect a fierce contest between two star-studded

teams that will go down as a classic in the history books.

Portugal will be looking to take advantage of the seeming disarray in the Spanish ranks; Spain sacked previous manager JulenLopetegui barely two days ago. Real Madrid legend, Fernando Hierro is now charged with galvanizing this absurdly talented side.

Of their four meetings in major tournaments, Spain lead by two wins to one (if you include a victory on penalties), with only four goals scored in those matches.

The only World Cup meeting was in 2010, when Spain triumphed 1-0 in the last 16 and went on to win.

Six members of that squad are in Russia; David Silva, Sergio Ramos, Andres Iniesta, Pepe Reina, Sergio Busquets and Gerard Pique.

Portugal will now attempt to emulate Spain and become only the fourth nation to win back-to-back European

Championship and World Cup tournaments. The others are West Germany (Euro 1972, World Cup 1974), France (World Cup 1998, Euro 2000) and Spain (Euro 2008, World Cup 2010).

Much may rest on the performance of Cristiano Ronaldo who finished the season with 43 goals for Real this season. He and his teammates surely smell blood.

Portugal have reported no injury concerns ahead of their clash with Spain but question marks remain over their starting line-up. Jose Fonte and Bruno Alves are vying to partner Pepe at centre-back, while either Andre Silva or Goncalo Guedes will join Cristiano Ronaldo in attack.

Daniel Carvajal returned to training for Spain on Tuesday following a hamstring injury but remains a doubt. Alvaro Odriozola will deputise at right-back should Carvajal miss out.

Man City, Arsenal in EPL Opener Champions Manchester City will travel to Arsenal on the weekend of 11-12 August for their opening match of the 2018-19 Premier League season.

Tottenham visit Newcastle first, then play Fulham at Wembley while their new £850m stadium is completed.

Manchester United host Leicester City, Liverpool entertain West Ham, and

Championship winners Wolverhampton Wanderers welcome Everton to Molineux.

Promoted Fulham host Crystal Palace, while Cardiff visit Bournemouth.

The three other fixtures on the opening weekend see Chelsea travel to Huddersfield, Southampton host Burnley, and Watford take on Brighton at Vicarage Road.

FIXTURES Arsenal v Manchester City Bournemouth v Cardiff City Fulham v Crystal Palace Huddersfield Town v Chelsea Liverpool v West Ham United Manchester United v Leicester City Newcastle United v Tottenham Hotspur Southampton v Burnley Watford v Brighton Wolverhampton Wanderers v Everton

Ab World Cup opening ceremonies are usually a spectacle to behold. It avails the host country the opportunity to showcase its culture and beauty to the rest of the world. The fanfare is usually similar to a circus show and involved gymnasts, musicians and other side attractions that depict the spirit of the game.

Due to the array of activities involved, opening ceremonies are usually lengthy but that was not the case in Russia yesterday when FIFA World Cup 2018 officially kicked off.

It was the shortest in the history of world cup tournaments. In thirty minutes, English pop-star Robbie Williams and Russian Soprano artiste Aida Garifullina the thousands of football fans with their songs, the Russian President Vladimir Putin made a speech, national anthems sung, and the game began.

So fast-paced were the performances that at one blink, moments were missed.

The ceremony began with a pre-recorded video of the violinist Yuri Bashmet and the pianist Daniil Trifonov performing Tchaikovski on a floating platform on the Moscow river. Brazilian football star Ronaldo, a child and Robbie Williams waltzed into the lush green field that accompanied by

dancers and other performers.

Without much ado, Williams launched into singing ‘Let Me Entertain You’ from his 1997 album ‘Life Thru a Lens’.

Just as he was rounding up the performance, the harpist Alexander Boldachev began to play. Aida Garifullina made an impressive entrance by arriving in a firebird. The colourful performers in the pitch played with the firebird’s feathers while Williams returned to perform ‘Feel’, the lead single from his 2002 album Escapology.

The performance quickly segued to another hit track of the artist ‘Angels’. He was joined by Garifullina while 32 pairs consisting of a matching man and a woman dressed in the colours of the participating teams took to the field. Meanwhile 211 kids of the “Football for Friendship” programme waved their flags while spectators held golden stars. Russian model Victoria Lopyreva brought the official ball in. The ball went into space earlier this

year, spent some time on the International Space Station and got back on June 3. Ronaldo however performed the symbolic kick by passing the ball to the mascot, Zabivaka. Robbie although not captured on camera performed one last song before Putin took to stage to make his welcome address.

In a rousing speech, Putin whose country won the bid to host the World Cup eight years ago welcomed the world to his country and encouraged them to bask in their hospitality.

“We have been responsibly preparing to host this wonderful event and we have done our upmost for fans, athletes and experts to immerse themselves in the atmosphere of a splendid football feast, and of course we hope they enjoy their stay in Russia, an open, hospitable and friendly country, and meet new friends – people with whom they share the same values.”

Ref Ricci to Handle Nigeria/Croatia Duel Ab Sandro Meira Ricci, a Brazilian civil servant has been assigned to handle the Group D encounter of Nigeria with Croatia in Kaliningrad tomorrow.

He will be assisted by compatriots, Emerson De Carvalho and Mercelo Van

Gasse. Ricci entered record books as the first referee in the world to validate a goal by means of the newly introduced goal line technology.

That happened on June 15, 2014 during his debut World Cup refereeing as he handled the France-Honduras match.

A day after the fourth anniversary of the record-setting occasion, he has been assigned the Group D Russia 2018 match.

His first major assignment was in the 2014 World Cup qualifying series when he officiated the Ecuador-Paraguay match in 2013.

Kwesé Free Sports Signs Oshoala as Brand Ambassador 24-hour sports TV station, Kwesé Free Sports (KFS) UHF 32, has signed the 2017 African Women’s Footballer of the Year, Asisat Oshoala, as its brand ambassador in Nigeria.

The Nigeria professional footballer and Dalian Quanjian F.C. forward, will become the face of the Kwesé Free Sports brand promoting the channels’ sporting content and supporting its initiatives.

She will feature in Kwesé Free Sports’s advertising commercials encompassing radio, television, print and digital. She will make appearances at Kwesé Free Sports events and feature as a guest analyst in its studios.

Arguably Nigeria’s best female footballer, Asisat Oshoala’s honours include; the African Women’s Footballer of the Year 2014, 2016 and 2017, and the BBC Women’s Footballer of the Year 2015.

Also a Super Falcons star,

Asisat was named; best player and highest goal scorer at the 2014 FIFA U-20 Women’s World Cup in Canada, and best player and second highest goal scorer with the Super Falcons at the 2014 African Women Championship in Namibia.

Aware that a lot of young girls look up to her for inspiration, she launched the Asisat Oshoala Foundation to mentor and groom young girls who aspire to be the best they can be in their chosen endeavour, not necessarily football, and giving them a new lease of life. The foundation has in recent times reached out to little kids in orphanages across Lagos, devoting her time in well-meaning charity causes particularly in her home country, Nigeria.

General Manager, Kwesé Free Sports Nigeria, Chichi Nwoko explained that Kwesé Free Sports will support the

Asisat Oshoala Foundation as part of its commitment to youth development through sports.

“We believe that Asisat exemplifies what Kwesé Free Sports stands for. We want to be the vehicle through which she tells the story of women through her foundation”, Nwoko said.

Asisat is living a lifelong dream of being one of the best female footballers in the world and says “she intends to fully utilize her potentials as the best female footballer to ever come out of Nigeria.” She adds that she is “happy to be a part of the Kwesé family”.

“This endorsement is a real inspiration for all women. I want to thank the Kwesé family for also giving a woman the opportunity to represent its brand. I encourage all hardworking women to keep working because at the end, it pays-off”, she said.

General Manager, Kwesé Free Sports Nigeria, Chichi Nwoko; African Women’s Footballer of the Year, Asisat Oshoala; and General Manager, Kwesé TV, Elizabeth Amkpa during the signing of Asisat Oshoala as Kwesé Free Sports brand ambassador at Kwesé office in Lagos on Tuesday

T H I S D AY FRIDAY JUNE 15, 2018

55

Friday, June 15, 2018

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UT H

& RE A S O

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Price: N250

MISSILE Omotosho to Mimiko

“Nigerians would recall that Dr. Mimiko abandoned the Labour Party for the Peoples Democratic Party a few days to Labour Party’s October 2015 National Convention.

Such a treachery and betrayal of a party that gave the former governor succour in the darkest hour of his political career especially as manifest in his two term victory on the ticket of Labour Party is to say the least, cheap and callous. It also revealed paucity of knowledge of the philosophy of the Labour Party as a peoples’ rooted party and dearth of class consciousness on his part” – National Chairman of Labour Party, Dr. Mike Omotosho, rejecting Olusegun Mimiko rejoining the party.

SHAKAMOMODU THIS REPUBLIC

shaka.momodu@thisdaylive.com

0811 266 1654

Buhari’s Dual Loyalty T

his article sets out two central developments revolving around President Muhammadu Buhari and two key figures. The first is his sudden recognition of the late MKO Abiola and the second, his reported idolisation of the late head of state, General Sani Abacha.

Buhari just pulled off a great political “masterstroke”, crowed a friend and a fierce Buhari apologist. Well, so it seemed to many of his apologists. Not exactly his apologists alone.

Even his diehard critics were left breathless and bewildered. Not necessarily by the genius of the political calculus underpinning his canonisation of Abiola, but by the sheer contradiction and paradoxes involved in it. I am in a dilemma trying to figure out what is going on. Buhari is trying to serve two masters at the same time.

Out of conviction, he idolised the late General Sani Abacha, his true hero, but felt the need to appease a tribe whose block vote is crucial to him retaining the keys to the Villa in 2019. So how did he do it? He conveniently honoured the late Chief MKO Abiola, winner of the June 12, 1993 presidential election who died in the struggle to reclaim his mandate that was annulled by General Ibrahim Babaginda with Abacha playing a key role.

A peep into Buhari’s past shows his disdain for June 12. When asked in an interview in 1998 about Abiola’s predicament, his response then was instructive: “You expect me to have any sympathy for somebody who financed the coup that took me out of office.”

You see, Buhari recognised Abiola not because he is a reformed democrat as he claims, neither is it because he appreciates the significance of June 12, its symbolism and the injustice of the annulment.

Buhari’s recognition of Abiola was for one reason and one reason only: it is politically beneficial to his re-election bid. So his about-face now is convenient to his larger personal interest.

However, I grudgingly give him some credit for seeing an opportunity and taking it, even though I understand the motive to be less than altruistic.

After all, five leaders have mounted the rostrum before him, none offered the Abiola family and the Nigerian nation “a glorious bribe” like Buhari has now done. That is not in anyway a slur on the Goodluck Jonathan administration which took the first step towards honouring Abiola’s sacrifice.

Recall Jonathan tried to rename the University of Lagos after Abiola, but for some inexplicable reason, the South-west intelligentia rejected it. Many of those same people are today celebrating Buhari’s “glorious bribe”.

But the question now is, will the people see it for what it is - a Greek gift? Will this “bribe” be enough to turn things round for Buhari and give him victory in 2019? I very much have my doubts that this half-hearted concession or “bribe” will atone for the incompetence, maladministration, mismanagement, clannishness and nepotism that this government has become. How can this suddenly atone for Buhari’s clear lack of capacity to govern? How can this even atone for his own poor leadership of the country in the last three years?

How can one even think that this bribe-for-votes addresses the fundamental problems bedeviling this country? Who will atone for Kudirat Abiola’s assassination by agents of the state? Have these people forgotten her cruel murder? Why was she not deemed worthy of a posthumous honour like her husband? After all, she was killed in the struggle to free her husband from detention and actualise the June 12 mandate.

Babagana Kingibe, the man who sold his head to buy a cap, did not deserve to be awarded a

Abiola national honour. He abandoned June 12, became foreign affairs minister under Abacha, pooh-poohed the mandate, giving reasons why June 12 was no longer realisable and lambasted the activists that held on to the mandate. A perplexed Abiola said then that he had nothing to say about a man who from number two became number nobody.

Honouring Kingible is a great disservice to June 12 and to the memories of all those who died in the struggle to actualise the mandate; Kingibe it now seems has eaten his cake and still has it.

I am furious here about Kingibe’s honour. I am actually beside myself with rage that this fox is now praising Abiola. The only reason I can think of for honouring this betrayer of June 12, is that clannishness of Buhari.

For those already singing songs of victory for Buhari in 2019 because of his recognition of Abiola, let me tell you, there is a saying in the land of my fathers: “Only a fool trades his life for money.”

This is not the time to let down our guard or lose sight of the dangers ahead should we make the mistake of voting Buhari in 2019 solely on account of the recognition he just accorded Abiola. The declaration of June 12 as Democracy Day may be a gimmick to gain votes after all, going by what the Attorney-General, Abubakar Malami just said that the Public Holidays Act would have to be amended to give effect to Buhari’s “intention”.

Now, let’s look at Buhari’s praise of Abacha and put some historical context and texture to it. Only a few weeks ago, Buhari canonised the former head of state and maximum ruler, the late General Sani Abacha for building roads and developing infrastructure in the country. I was however shocked that people expressed surprise that Buhari idolised Abacha. You see, “History matters; records are not kept simply to assist the weakness of memory, but to operate as guides to the future.” If you refuse to learn the lessons of history, you will always be surprised – and for some APC supporters – ashamed and embarrassed. The arrowheads of change could only watch in perplexity, wrench in agony and regret at what it has turned out to be. But there is nothing they could do about it.

Let’s take a trip down memory lane to understand Buhari’s alternate reality and how much he has tried to impose it on Nigerians. At the remembrance prayer marking 10 years of the death of Abacha, Buhari described the allegations of looting against the late military dictator as “baseless”, because according to him, “Ten years after Abacha, those allegations remain unproven because of lack of

facts.” It was not as if he was not aware that money Abacha stole had been returned to the country, rather it was a stubborn refusal to accept the facts.

That statement was well documented in the public records but in the heat of 2015, the salesmen of the Buhari-has-changed campaign described as “contrived handicaps” everything he had said or done that didn’t advance the new narrative.

Continuing from there somewhat, on April 27, 2016, the presidency posted on its twitter @ NGRPresident at 9:09 a.m. as follows: “Nigeria is awaiting receipt, from Swiss Govt, of $320 million, identified as illegally taken from Nigeria under the Abacha administration.” To the discerning, that was an unmistakable sign of denial. It deliberately did not mention the fact that Abacha was the one who took the money illegally. Instead, the post created the false impression that the money was taken probably by some officials who served under that administration. Well, the Abacha loot only has Abacha’s name tied to it, so no matter how hard or how much anyone tries, it won’t change anything.

Abacha stole Nigeria’s money. To conclude otherwise stretches logic, common sense, and credulity beyond the breaking point. What Buhari has consistently done is to dismiss inconvenient facts and put out his own alternative facts in an attempt to subsume the truth or negotiate the facts.

His latest praise of Abacha came just after his government received another tranche of $322 million from Switzerland allegedly stolen by Abacha. For those who may have forgotten, it was former President Olusegun Obasanjo who initiated the global search and recovery of the Abacha loot.

For those who thought the “progressives” and conservatives mix of his party, the democratic environment which places a premium on the people’s sensibilities may have reformed him, and his political ascendancy would change what had not changed in him all those years, I say how terribly mistaken they have been - a leopard cannot change its spots. They have been disappointed.

I am not about to blame Buhari for living true to form. As a matter of fact, he should be respected for his consistency in championing alternative facts. The blame should rather go to those who are hell-bent on making a hero out of a man who has consistently frustrated their attempts by his utterances, actions and inactions. The harder they tried, the more their efforts were rebuffed. Yet they keep trying.

You see, while he exonerates Abacha of corruption, he steadfastly pursues allegations of corruption against opposition elements all over the world and is busy releasing names of treasury looters. Does this not smack of double standard? He holds the Abacha era as the golden example of leadership only rivalled by his own government – his brief stint as a military head of state and his current civilian tenure. With these exceptions, all other leaders after him, military and civilian, will be “judged

by God for wasting Nigeria’s resources”. How self-righteous can a man be? Now the president was reported to have made this baffling statement: “Sometimes, I wonder about those who can afford to send their children abroad for studies and yet continue to sabotage the economy, I wonder what kind of Nigeria they want their children to return to and work. There is a lot of lack of imagination. If you are working for the country, then you should not be misappropriating and misapplying public funds the way people did.” Can you imagine?

From the evidence in the public domain, those accusations are at the minimum hypocritical and self-indicting – this administration is more guilty of them and are at worst, malignant.

But let’s even ignore Buhari’s fixation with

the past and his fascination for Abachamania and look at some of the substantive issues of the provision of infrastructure, viz. roads, education and healthcare. The Petroleum Trust Fund (PTF) interventions in these areas were piecemeal, ad hoc in nature, devoid of policy and strategy at best. It was essentially all about renovation and rehabilitation of physical assets, provision of drugs and equipment at hospitals; chairs, desks, etc. in schools. As relieving as these interventions were, they were cosmetic to the underlining problems bedeviling the areas Buhari referenced in his statement.

Under Abacha, Nigeria was not the Eldorado that Buhari wants us to believe it was. Universities were frequently shut down either as a result of student protests against his government, or because the Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU) had the temerity to embark on strikes to protest the lack of a conducive learning environment. For the first time, students lost one full academic session at least during peace time.

It was under this “Eldorado era” which Buhari cherishes so much that the refineries where allowed to collapse. Import licences for the importation of fuel became one big racket – that regime laid the foundation for all sorts of phoney briefcase companies that have ever since characterised the oil sector. It has grown ever since. Who can forget how under that regime toxic fuel with a very bad odour was brought in by the agents of that government!

Veteran journalist, Ray Ekpu provided some compelling review into how Buhari ran the PTF in his article in The Guardian recently. He presented Afenifere’s analysis of the siting of the PTF projects in the country under Buhari. The picture is disturbing: “The consumption of petroleum products by the South was 70% while that of the North was 30%.

However, the distribution of the PTF projects was a reversal of the consumption pattern: 70% to the North and 30% to the South. All southern states had 4,440.43 kilometres of roads rehabilitated (24%) while states in the North had 13,870.47 kilometres rehabilitated (76%). Teaching Hospitals’ rehabilitation: South 38%, North 62%; Specialist hospitals: South 29%, North 71%; Food supply: South 17%, North 83%; National Health and Educational Rehabilitation Programme (NHERP): South 0% and North 100%; Vocational Programme: South 3%, North 97%; Primary School rehabilitation: South 12%, North 88%. Haroun Adamu acknowledged the gross imbalances in the sharing of the projects but regretted that his committee could not do much to remedy the situation since by the IMC mandate, they could not embark on new projects. From the findings, there was a massive fraud in the PTF, fraudulently masqueraded as achievements.”

Clearly, Buhari’s ethnic agenda did not start today.

Unfortunately, during the 2015 election campaign, even though this fact was in the public domain, we were told he had changed. People we had previously ascribed knowledge of history to, turned historical facts on their heads, declaring Buhari a messiah. Since Buhari’s ascendancy to the presidency, he has displayed the worst of everything he was accused of pre-2015.

Since he came to power, killer herdsmen have been on a killing spree, buoyed by the body language of Buhari and the utterances of the officials of his government. Blood has been flowing everyday, everywhere, as human lives are now valued lower than the lives of cows. Folks, we must never allow June 12, which was a Muslim-Muslim ticket that, against all odds birthed a pan-Nigerian mandate to be exploited by those who are anti-June 12 at heart, and whose primary quest for power is to promote their clannish interest. Nigerians, shine your eyes and vote wisely.

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